Photo Credit: Christopher Stephens
Pests and weeds in Southland
The rivers of Southland are home to many precious native species including black-billed gulls. Weeds including broom and gorse displace them from the rivers where they nest. Left unchecked these weeds can also spread quickly to neighbouring farmland.
Tackling the problem
Gorse and broom pose a significant threat to the biodiversity of Southland’s rivers and much of our work is targeted at these weeds to prevent them harming the ecological and agricultural value of the land.
Weed species are managed through a combination of aerial and ground control. As broom and gorse seeds are spread down the river control begins at the head of the catchment and works downstream.
Working with others
In Southland we work closely with Environment Southland and the Department of Conservation on joint control operations to make sure we all get the most out of our efforts.
How you can help
Across New Zealand all lake and river users also have a role to play in stopping the spread of water weeds. If you’re moving between waterways, you must clean all your gear using the 'Check, Clean, Dry' method. This stops plant fragments moving between waterways, which can be all it takes for a new infestation to begin.
Check, Clean and Dry