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An initiative to advance the goal of a pest-free Mahurangi East peninsula took a step forward last week, when a forum of people active in local conservation efforts voiced broad support for a collaborative approach focused on suppression and phased elimination of predators.
Hosted by Restore Rodney East (RRE) following 18 months of discussions, the meeting in Sandspit discussed a Pest Free Mahurangi East Peninsula (PFMEP) proposal, designed to target animal pests from Matakana Road down to the southern tip of the peninsula – an area of 4170 hectares.
After islands, peninsulas are seen to offer the next major opportunity for pest-free initiatives, with coastline boundaries facilitating the task of preventing reinvasion. The growing population of Mahurangi East – currently some 6000 permanent residents – and rapid urbanisation provide both challenges and opportunities for pest-free actions.
An operating proposal prepared by RRE ahead of the hui identified four options, with two of them – retaining the status quo and seeking the full elimination of all pest species – effectively ruled out.
While existing volunteer predator-controls efforts were acknowledged and praised, the report contended that the status quo would not achieve the goal of peninsula-wide suppression of pests. On the other hand, a drive to eliminate all pest species was also viewed as unrealistic, hugely costly and unlikely to succeed.
This left the options of widespread and coordinated suppression of target species, and a phased elimination programme, focusing on possums, then stoats and a more challenging rat phase.
RRE chair Tim Armitage outlined a proposal dividing the target area into four zones or operational hubs – south, north, central and a key buffer zone between the central and south zones.
With “virtual fences” cutting across the peninsula at existing pinch points north and south of Snells Beach, this buffer zone would be critical to the success of the project, since it would prevent the passage of pests down the peninsula and further protect the southern portion from reinvasion.
Armitage presented maps produced by consultants Boffa Miskell, showing where pests were currently being controlled and where coverage was non-existent, inadequate, or not known. More populated areas were found to have higher concentrations of trapping and control capabilities, while DOC reserve areas of remnant bush – in the central zone – were identified as potential reservoirs for pests, again highlighting the importance of the buffer zone.
Participants discussed the need to establish a governance structure and to secure funding for a paid coordinator – and possibly a part-time paid trapper as well. Also raised were the importance of mana whenua and cultural guidance, using high tech modern trapping methods, communicating with residents, tapping into existing enthusiasm and securing community buy-in.
Armitage said there was evidently support in the room for a minimum of suppression and some phased elimination of pests on the peninsula.
The operating proposal would be refined, taking into account points raised at the meeting, he said, stressing that the approach must be dynamic, not one based on “fixed thinking”.
