The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is re-establishing the Lower Clutha Flood Protection and Drainage Scheme Liaison Group to provide input to council decision-making for the area.
A new group for the lower Taieri was formed in December last year and a further group for the Tokomairaro River will be established next year.
ORC science and resilience general manager Tom Dyer said the lower Clutha group would be in place by Christmas, and invited stakeholders to put their names forward for election before November 5.
"The Lower Clutha Flood Protection and Drainage Scheme is a cornerstone of flood management in South Otago, safeguarding communities and supporting productive farmland.
"This is a chance for people in the community to share their knowledge, help guide scheme decisions and ensure the protection and management of those networks reflects local priorities."
The scheme extended from 4km upstream of Balclutha to the sea, and was constructed between 1960 and 1991 to protect Balclutha, Kaitangata, Stirling and 9300ha of surrounding low-lying land.
Representatives were sought from Balclutha, Paretai, Barnego, Inch Clutha and Kaitangata (one per area) to join representatives from mana whenua, Contact Energy, Clutha District Council and the ORC.
The group would have several roles, including providing feedback to the council on levels of service and proposed operational and capital programmes; input on infrastructure strategy, asset management plans and rating/funding proposals; and fostering communication between scheme stakeholders, Mr Dyer said.
"We’re looking forward to welcoming local voices to the new liaison group."
Nominations could be made via ORC’s website.
