Two wetland projects in the Waitaki Valley have benefited by almost $23,000 from grants made this month by Meridian Energy's Waitaki Community Fund.
The Otematata Residents' Association's Otematata Wetlands project has had ongoing support from the fund, including $10,000 when it was first being developed.
The wetland trail between the shores of Lake Aviemore and Loch Laird Rd has been formed with a series of walkways and signage.
In the latest round of grants, it has received $15,893 to further the project.
Another $7000 has been granted for a new gravel track at Duntroon's wetland for locals and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and birdlife of the area more easily.
Duntroon and District Development Association member Mike Gray said the project would help preserve the wetland environment and make it more accessible to visitors.
''Although much of the track layout is in place, there are a number of wet and muddy sections and the boardwalks need to be linked with gravel tracks. This will mean a more functional and safer track system,'' he said.
Twizel young people would also benefit from a $13,200 grant for new outdoor play equipment at the Twizel Early Learning Centre.
''Our centre hasn't been able to afford to replace any of its old outdoor play equipment that is in need of repair.
"We can now install a large central play area that will provide our children with different degrees of challenge to encourage exploration, creativity and help develop more complex movement and co-ordination,'' Twizel Early Learning Centre chairwoman Rae Coburn said.
More than $83,000 was granted in the latest allocation from the fund, which has been running for more than seven years.
Meridian assets maintenance manager Mat Bayliss said the fund continued to get a really good range of high-quality applications.
Supporting grass-roots projects created genuine benefits for the community.
Some other grants were. -Ben Ohau Golf Club $10,000 (two heat pumps and thermal curtains for the clubhouse); Twizel Snow Club $8000 (200 race bibs and voice data equipment); Twizel Youth Centre $30,000 (repair the structure of the Youth Centre); Aoraki Mount Cook Playground $303.06 (upgrade resources and equipment).
