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A working bee targeting the invasive moth plant was held at Whangateau on March 25.
The event was organised by Kevin Weston after he noticed a plant that appeared to be taking over certain areas and strangling the native plants.
“After some research I found out this plant is the dreaded moth plant that is one of the most noxious plants in NZ,” he said. “The plant needs to be eradicated as it spreads quickly and will dominate native vegetation. Sprays won’t kill it and each pod has up to 2000 seeds.”
Weston says the working bee targeted mainly plants around Tramcar Bay.
“We know this enemy is very cunning and will be back, so although we have won the battle, the war is far from over. Another working bee is planned for later in the year.
“I am grateful to all the residents at Whangateau who volunteered to help especially knowing they did not have the moth plant growing on their properties right now. They were smart enough to realise it’s only a matter of time before this enemy arrives on their shores.
“I would encourage other communities to get together and help fight the moth plant.”
Residents were given a helping hand by members of the Society Totally Against the Moth Plant (STAMP).
The moth plants that were removed were disposed of at the Redvale landfill.
