Otago conservation appointments announced
Date: 29 August 2008
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Conservation Minister Steve Chadwick today announced this year's appointments to the Otago Conservation Board.
"I am pleased to reappoint Chas Morris, Mark Planner, Abby Smith and Chas Tanner to the board," Steve Chadwick said.
"The makeup of the board represents a wide range of local communities in Otago and gives sound advice to the Department of Conservation (DOC) on its policy and directions. Conservation boards play a vital role in giving independent advice on local issues and are a way for local communities to be a part of conservation decisions."
Conservation boards provide links between the community and DOC, and represent the public interest in the department's work and conservation in general.
Chas Morris is a farmer and tour guide who has served for many years as a Guardian of Lake Wanaka, Mark Planner is a self-employed tutoring franchise owner/operator, Abby Smith is a marine scientist at the University of Otago and Chas Tanner is a manager. All appointees have an interest in outdoor recreation.
"The reappointed members have a lot to contribute to this highly competent and committed board, and I thank them for their willingness to continue in this important conservation role."