What are NRM Groups and what do they do?

NRM Groups are under the responsibility of their regional NRM Board to implement programs from their regional NRM plan at a local level, and are also involved in the development of the regional plan.

A regional NRM Board may delegate any of their functions or powers to an NRM Group. Other functions include:

·Develop and implement programs at the local level

·Promote public awareness and support educational activities on NRM

·Provide advice to the regional NRM Board on any NRM issues in their group area

·Report its activities and finances to the regional NRM Board annually

·Any other functions the regional NRM Board

NRM Groups also have a range of powers under the NRM Act. They can form committees to advise them on issues as required, and must set up certain committees if under ‘regulations’, but at the moment there are none regulated.

Does every regional NRM Board have NRM Groups?

If a regional NRM Board outlines an area within its region for a group to operate, it must establish an NRM Group. However, it isn’t mandatory to outline group areas and in fact a regional NRM Board can act as an NRM Group. This is the case with the Kangaroo Island NRM Board that has decided to take on the functions of an NRM Group.

Who are the members of a regional NRM Groups?

Regional NRM Groups have up to 7 members appointed by their regional NRM Board. The majority of members must reside in the Group area and be involved in an activity related to land management. There must be at least one male and one female. Membership is for a 3-year term and only three terms can be served.

Regional NRM Boards must appoint a presiding member who is supported by an executive officer/group coordinator.

Powers and responsibilities of regional NRM Boards can be delegated to NRM Groups.