The Department of Conservation’s (DOC) ‘Jobs for Nature’ programme has employed more than 7,000 people in 225 projects, making a huge difference to nature over the past five years, according to DOC Deputy Director General Public Affairs, Sia Aston.
Launched to turbo-boost nature-based employment through COVID-19, the $1.2 billion multi-agency programme employed people whose livelihoods were impacted through the pandemic, enabling them to stay local and support their families and communities.
Ms Aston said Jobs for Nature projects have had a positive impact on the environment, restoring more than 6000ha of wetland, and working toward the restoration of six priority waterways, including the Rangitata and Whanganui Rivers.
“As the Department’s work with Jobs for Nature comes to an end this month, the programme has been successful for the thousands who’ve gained valuable experience and achieved great things for nature,” she said.
In South Westland, Jobs for Nature has seen tourism workers from 40 businesses redeployed, keeping essential skills vital for economic recovery in the community.
“We estimate Jobs for Nature projects will return more than $1.97 billion in environmental, social and economic benefits over 30 years,” said Ms Aston.
“Jobs for Nature has stood up a new generation of conservationists who have upskilled and trained in critical ranger skills including pest control, planting, and landscape restoration.”
When surveyed, 91 project partners identified as being whānau, hapū or iwi, and a further 63 said they have strong engagement with whānau, hapū or iwi.
“Jobs for Nature supported Māori to work in their communities, contribute directly to improving the health of the whenua.”
While Government funding for the programme ends today, there is an ongoing legacy, with just over 20% of projects (46) intending to develop businesses and continue their mahi, said Ms Aston.
“We’ve seen tangible benefits for iwi, communities and nature. It’s demonstrated that when we take action for nature, it can bounce back,” she said.
Over five years, since 2020, the programme has improved biodiversity, increased environmental protection and supported better access to nature for future generations:
- 8.4 million hours of conservation work was enabled, including more than 2.3 million hectares of pest control (animal and plant) and 5 million plantings;
- Targeted support was provided for threatened species and ecosystems, including the Threatened – Nationally Critical kākāriki karaka / orange-fronted parakeet;
- Restoration of six priority freshwater waterways was accelerated to protect and improve their biodiversity;
- Over 6,000 hectares of wetland was restored, improving wildlife habitat, water quality, flood control and more;
- Over 1,000 cultural heritage and recreational sites were maintained and improved, retaining our connection to nature and identity;
- Local resilience to climate change impacts was increased.
