Articles tagged with Forestry Minister
New Legislation Protects Farmland from Forest Conversions, Boosting Agriculture Sector
2 hours ago | 40 viewsLegislation has been enacted to restrict farm-to-forest conversions on productive farmland, fulfilling a campaign promise by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay. The Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme - Forestry Conversion) Amendment Act, effective from October 31, 2025, aims to protect food production, rural communities, and forestry investments. Exotic forests are limited from entering the Emissions Trading Scheme on New Zealand's most productive soils, with exemptions for Māori-owned land and erosion-prone areas, while transitional exemptions are available for qualifying forestry investments made between 2021 and 2024.
Tags: Legislation farmland Agriculture Forestry Minister Todd McClay Climate Change Response Emissions Trading Scheme New Zealand MPINew Zealand's Wood Energy and Biogas Strategy for Sustainable Energy Future
2 weeks ago | 120 viewsThe Government of New Zealand has shown strong support for the bioenergy sector by releasing the Wood Energy Strategy and Action Plan, as well as a Government Statement on Biogas. These initiatives aim to diversify the country's energy mix, reduce reliance on imported fuels, and cut down on emissions by promoting wood energy and biogas as sustainable alternatives. The plans include clear objectives, co-funding opportunities, and regulatory support to accelerate the growth of the bioenergy industry, create new jobs, enhance energy security, and contribute to achieving climate goals.
Tags: Government Wood Energy Strategy Action Plan Biogas New Zealand Energy Security Mr Watts Forestry Minister Todd McClay Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) Renewable EnergyGovernment Increases Financial Support for Nelson Tasman Region's Rural Communities
3 months ago | 974 viewsThe Government is increasing financial support for rural communities in the Nelson Tasman Region, with an additional $600,000 in funding announced by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay. This brings the total Government contribution to $500,000 to aid farmers, foresters, growers, and rural contractors in recovering from recent severe weather events. The support package includes contributions to the Mayoral Relief Fund, Farmers Adverse Events Trust, Horticulture sector, and coordination efforts to assist affected vineyards, with a focus on providing immediate and meaningful assistance to help rural businesses recover quickly.
Tags: Todd McClay Government rural communities Nelson Tasman Region farmers foresters growers Agriculture and Forestry Minister rural contractors severe weather events