Resources
Wetlands stopped $625 million in property damage during Hurricane Sandy. For the first time, we have a sense of how much property damage these natural habitats can prevent during severe storms like Hurricane Harvey. Coastal wetlands thwarted $625 million worth of property damage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, according to a study published Thursday in Scientific Reports
Planning wetland restoration requires expert ecological assessment. This report outlines the steps necessary to restore a Mapua property to its original wetland state.
Government National Policy Statements
Why these are important for Māpua wetlands:
National policy statement for freshwater management | Ministry for the Environment
One of the main requirements of councils is to avoid any further loss or degradation of wetlands and streams, map existing wetlands and encourage their restoration. The need to restore the Seaton Valley wetland and storm water plain to a functional wetland was presented to the TDC on 28 April by the Wildlife Corridors Subcommittee of the Tasman District Council. (link below)
New Zealand coastal policy statement | Ministry for the Environment
The definition of a coastal hazard zone includes the Seaton Valley Stream from Stafford Drive to Māpua channel and Waimea Inlet. This was recognised by the TDC in their 2011 report on floodwater modelling for Māpua, but is not considered in the latest Future Development Strategy.
National policy statement on urban development | Ministry for the Environment May 2022.
The urban development statement directs councils to place new housing subdivisions in areas that are within walking distance to work, schools and commerce. Our wetland areas are threatened by new subdivisions for people who will need to commute to school, work and amenities.