Site-led pest programmes are a bit different to our usual region-wide pest management, as they are based on protecting a specific location from a local pest.
Nelson Lakes and the Waimea Estuary are two examples of these site-led programmes. However, with the holiday season approaching and bach owners making use of their holiday spots, we thought it was a good time to highlight our site-led pest control programme in the Abel Tasman National Park.
The goal of this programme is to protect the ecological integrity of the park, by limiting the spread of several pest plants from private land situated within the park.
Pest plants are controlled on private enclaves in parts of Awaroa, Torrent Bay and north Mārahau/Apple Tree Bay.
The pests in question are rosemary grevillea, all cotoneaster species, European holly, sycamore, kūmarahou (also known as gum digger’s soap) and Douglas fir (wildings only).
We’ve been lucky to have the support of many private occupiers who have worked with us on the programme to have pest plants removed. This complements the contributions of voluntary groups to the management of pests in the park.
We rely on the diligence of all occupiers within the area to report and control these pests. We are keen to work with landowners to continue to protect this special place.
If you think you have any of these pest plants on private land in the Abel Tasman National Park, please give us a call on 03 543 8400 or email biosecurity@tasman.govt.nz.