Environment Minister opens new Waterways Centre
Environment Minister Dr Nick Smith has opened the new Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management - a joint initiative between Canterbury and Lincoln universities which aims to create a centre for excellence in water resource education and research.
The minister says improved knowledge and skills will play an important role in improving New Zealand’s water management.
“Freshwater is so plentiful in New Zealand that we have been too casual about its management. We now have major issues with water quality and allocation that will require better regulation, stronger institutions and improved knowledge and skills.
“The important role for the Waterways Centre is to bring together the engineering, agricultural, geology, environmental and geography disciplines of Canterbury and Lincoln universities to help provide the research and skills base to help New Zealand better manage water.
“The Government is contributing $1 million to the centre from the Tertiary Education Commission’s Encouraging and Supporting Innovation Fund. We commend Canterbury and Lincoln universities for taking up this initiative.”
The new Waterways Centre was established in response to calls by local authorities and businesses for more water management specialists.
It is headed by Professor Jenny Webster-Brown, a scientist recognised internationally for her research into water chemistry and quality.
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