Interest set to build in challenge to use land

The challenge is expected to draw interest from researchers and scientists wanting to clean up the lake water quality. Photo/Thinkstock

The Rotorua Land Innovation Challenge organisers have received five expressions of interest - but believe there will be far wider interest ahead of the close-off date.

The challenge aims to generate additional land uses for the Lake Rotorua catchment as part of efforts to clean up the lake water quality.

It is hoped the event will generate ideas for land owners who are required to reduce nutrient loss.

Entries to the challenge, which has a $20,000 top prize, close on March 31.

So far the five expressions of interest had been officially received by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council but because that isn't mandatory, it's not indicative of the number of entries.

The regional council said given the work involved, including requirements to provide financial and other supporting data, it was expected that entries wouldn't come in until nearer the closing date.

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme staff had fielded several calls from representatives of organisations including universities, private companies and industry bodies.

Entries for the challenge are now open and must show how the proposed land use solution provides for long-term, measurable nitrogen reductions and provide financial data detailing its economic viability.

While the challenge is expected to appeal largely to researchers, scientists and the farming and land management sectors, it is open to anyone to enter and the overall winner will receive $20,000.

All viable solutions submitted will be shared with landowners and the community to review and to potentially implement.

For entry details and information about the Rotorua Land Innovation Challenge go to www.rotorualakes.co.nz