LINZ biosecurity maps and apps at Fieldays 2021

From tracking wilding pines to counting native seeds, the maps and apps from Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) help restore native plants and animals – find out more at Fieldays 2021.

LINZ’s geospatial expertise underpins its biosecurity and biodiversity programme which ranges from small projects with rūnanga and community groups through to supporting Ministry for Primary Industry’s National Wilding Conifer Control programme.

Having a stand at National Agricultural Fieldays this week is an opportunity to showcase this expertise in an accessible, fun way, says LINZ’s Biosecurity and Biodiversity Group Manager, Nicole Arthur.

“If you think you know New Zealand’s landscapes, visit our exhibit and take part in our game – How well do you know your backyard? Our team will tell you about the work LINZ is doing in each of the places pictured and you can use that information to guess the locations on a purpose-built app.

“Everyone who plays the game goes in the draw to win a custom map of any place in New Zealand they choose.”

Ms Arthur says she hopes the game will spark conversations about the precious Crown lands and waterways that LINZ is responsible for and some of the technologies being used.

“Data and technology are critical to good decision-making and tracking progress, meaning high-quality data, apps and maps are a vital part of our biosecurity and biodiversity work.

“Each area LINZ works in has unique opportunities and challenges. Geospatial tools help us understand the lands and waterways we manage so we can target pests and weeds effectively, and help support native birds, plants, fish and insects to thrive.”

More than 120,000 visitors are expected at National Agricultural Fieldays at Hamilton’s Mystery Creek from 16 – 19 June 2021. LINZ’s exhibit is at RM163 in the Rural Living Marquee.

“Fieldays is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agribusiness event, meaning it’s a great opportunity to educate the public about our work and demonstrate how it intersects with the agricultural sector.”