Get your pod squad ready

Anyone looking for some extra cash has been invited to join a Northland Regional Council (NRC) initiative aimed at reducing the spread of the highly invasive moth plant in Taitokerau.

The NRC has launched a competition, which encourages individuals or teams, to collect moth plant pods, vines and seedlings, with cash prizes for the largest collections.

Biodiversity and biosecurity working party chair Jack Craw says the point-based competition will help put the spotlight on this problematic pest and reduce its spread, helping to protect native species which often fall victim to the smothering vine.

Every pod collected will prevent up to 1000 seeds from being released and spread through the wind. Participants will also get extra points for pulling out moth plant seedlings and vines with the roots intact, preventing them from producing pods in future.

The competition awards one point per pod collected and three points for every vine/seedling with roots intact. Cash prizes include $500 for first place, $300 for second and $200 for third, plus several Prezzy Card spot prizes are also available.

Once registered, participants will be advised of the safety precautions to follow to protect their eyes, skin and clothes from the harmful moth plant sap, and how to dispose of the pods responsibly.

To register your interest visit www.nrc.govt.nz/mothplantcomp