Pest control

Animal pests are a major threat to New Zealand's special native species, ecosystems and conservation lands.

Control programmes to manage and remove animal pests are essential for the survival of New Zealand's special native species and ecosystems.

DOC's conservation management remains focussed on removing threats such as possums rather than proceeding into large scale restoration of natural areas.

Some control goals from the Department of Conservation's Statement of Intent 2002—2005:

• The Department will maintain 1,065,244 ha under sustained possum control.
• The Department will maintain 1,631,315 ha of sustained goat control.
• The Department will maintain:
• 1,017,280 ha under sustained management for thar;
• 65,800 ha under sustained management for deer; and
• 16 programmes for sustained management of other animal pests.