Thinking beyond the garden gate
Date: 05 September 2008
Conservation Week this year is all about connecting New Zealanders with their local environment. During the week of 6-14th September the Department of Conservation (DOC), aims to help New Zealanders understand and value the physical, social, environmental and economic benefits of conservation through the theme of "Meet the Locals".
In the Palmerston North area DOC is encouraging people to meet the local weeds. "Weeds are a significant threat to the survival of native species and landscapes in the region. They can smother and compete with the native plants and forests that provide food and shelter for our native birds and animals" says Biodiversity Programme Manager for Palmerston North area Viv McGlynn. "Many of New Zealand's pest plants are introduced garden plants that have "jumped the fence" and invaded native bush".
In the Palmerston North area DOC is working with Horizons and local environmental groups to raise awareness of weeds through holding a "Weed Swap" event. "We are encouraging the community to think beyond their garden gate and find out about weeds and weed control in their area" says DOC Community Relations Ranger Kelly Stratford. "Joining the war against weeds is something we can all do, no matter how big or small we are".
Woody weed
With the warmer weather spring brings, everything is growing - including the weeds - and people are more inclined to spend time outdoors. This makes it a perfect time to encourage people to swap their weeds for trees.
The invitation goes out to everyone to pull some weeds from their garden and bring them to the Education Centre at Victoria Esplanade on Saturday 13th September. They'll be given a free native tree in exchange for their weeds. Local plant experts will be on-hand to help identify plants and answer questions. There will be plenty of information for people to take away with them. For families, there will be children's activities and Woody Weed to keep them entertained. Deputy Mayor John Hornblow will be on-site to present prizes for a local school 'Bust a Weed' poster competition in the afternoon. "It all kicks off at 11am, so come along and meet your locals" urges Ms Stratford.