Pest management encompasses both animal and plant pests. These were a key issue identified by the community in the 2023 survey. Well established weeds like Old Man’s Beard are a real problem in the catchment, expanding rapidly and smothering native plants. Newer weeds that haven’t yet taken hold are also important to tackle. There are many animal pests in the catchment such as rats, stoats, possums, and pigs, that decimate the bird population, damage native bush, and destroy habitats and new plantings.

Pest Management Group’s Objectives are: 

• Engage and build capacity in the community to reduce the impacts of weeds and pests 
• Work with other Thematic Groups to enable restoration of key sites in the catchment 
• Build community engagement and interest in trapping and control of pest plants and animals 
• Establish a catchment-wide pest and weed management plan.

The Pest management group is an active group of 13 members. This group have identified priority species to focus on and are linking up with other trapping and weeding groups. The group is working on building capacity, providing training and tools to expand the control of vine weeds, especially old man’s beard, and identify priority sites to control weeds. One project is focused on an area near Haycocks Bush on the Motueka River West Bank Road. The group is also setting up trapping project with help from funding from Predator Free NZ and in collaboration with Farmers for Whio.

If you would like to find out more about this Thematic Group and enquire about becoming a member, contact Shannon Parker on: coordinator@motuekacatchment.org.nz