The recently held workshop facilitated by GroundTruth with the support of HBRC was a real eye-opener for most of the group present. There was definitely a negative bias against Pine trees but as a result of the presentation by JP and his team, we were able to begin to see how the strategic use of planting could be a real positive for the farming business financially, a win for biodiversity and for the land stability.

We were especially interested to hear about how the “Right Tree – Right Place’ initiative could support the introduction of plantings that could create a biodiversity corridor from the TeUrewera forest Reserve right through to Whakapunake Mounga.

The concept of supplement planting to protect and enhance existing small tree lots – especially those that are virgin natives generated strong possibilities and aligns with our vision of enhancing and protecting the environment for future generations.

One thing that was abundantly clear was how complex navigating the future compliance obligations around carbon emissions and gaining financial benefit from the ETS is. Having expert advice and guidance will be essential for the Guardians to navigate and make good decisions as custodians of the land.