Environmental Enhancement Fund
More funding assistance is now available for Southlanders working to protect and enhance the region’s native biodiversity.
Applications for the Environmental Enhancement Fund
are now closed.
Note: If you have an account login you will be able to save and complete the form later. This is very simple to set up if you do not have an account already. You can do this by clicking the "Log In" button at the top of this page. We recommend signing up before you begin.
Download the application form (PDF), 152KB
Download the application guide (PDF), 2.6MB
The fund has been boosted by Jobs for Nature, and now provides up to $300,000 per year for the next four years. The increase in funding is part of our Biodiversity Action on the Ground programme, which received $4.25m from the Ministry for the Environment through Jobs for Nature in 2020.
Southland has lots of special native species and ecosystems that are at risk from animal pests, weeds, drainage and development. Environment Southland is committed to supporting communities and individuals who want to combat these threats and help restore our precious environment.
The focus of the fund is on protecting and improving what we already have, rather than creating new areas like new wetlands or riparian buffers.
Examples of actions supported by the fund include:
- pest animal and weed control
- fencing
- work to restore the natural flow of water
- native planting and plant maintenance.
Who can apply for funding?
Landowners, trusts, individuals and community groups working anywhere in Southland on either private land, conservation land or council reserves can apply.
If you’re not sure whether your project would qualify, we can provide advice and come out to do a visual assessment.
Environment Southland can help with project planning, and with putting together an application.
How much funding is available and when can I apply?
Environment Southland has allocated $300,000 to the fund for each financial year for the next four years.
A grant from the EEF will only cover the direct cost of materials and labour used in the project.
The EEF will contribute up to 50% of the project costs.
You can apply at any time but funded works must be completed and invoices received within the same financial year the grant is approved.
Project sustainability and long-term protection
Projects should have a long-term goal so that biodiversity values on the site continue to be protected after the funds have been invested. You will need to include information about continuing maintenance and demonstrate an ongoing commitment as part of the application.
For more information fill in the form below or call us on 0800 76 88 45 and ask to speak to a member of the biodiversity team about the Environmental Enhancement Fund.
