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The vital role that wetlands play in the environment will be the focus of a free workshop in Whangaripo next Sunday, October 20.
The event is being organised by the The Forest Bridge Trust to provide information and tips from experts on how people can contribute to their preservation and restoration.
There will also be a focus on one of New Zealand’s most elusive and endangered birds, the Australasian bittern, or matuku-hūrepo, which relies on wetlands for its survival.
Wendy Ambury from conservation project Love Bittern and the Bittern Conservation Trust’s Alex Flavell Johnson will describe the life and habits of these large, secretive birds, including their camouflage skills and distinctive booming call.
John Sumich from the Matuku Link wetlands reserve in Waitākere will discuss practical techniques to help revive and protect wetland systems, while Katie Forno from Kaipara Moana Remediation will share advice on fencing and planting strategies, along with insights into funding opportunities available for conservation projects.
Hana Aicken and Sarah Dimitrijovic from marine and freshwater education group Mountains to Sea will be looking at stream life and how it can be measured and observed.
Department of Conservation scientist Kim Wright will present findings from a recent survey of fish in Whangaripo to give a better understanding of the area’s aquatic biodiversity and its implications for future conservation efforts.
After lunch, there will be a visit to a local wetland fragment to see restoration steps in action.
The wetlands workshop will take place at Whangaripo Hall, 1272 Whangaripo Valley Road on October 20 from 10am to 3pm. Entry is free, but registration is essential at https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/ BYO lunch.
