Information wanted on illegal toxin in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park

Date:  14 December 2010

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is appealing for information about unauthorised toxin baits found in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park near Katikati last week, which have led to the temporary closure of several walking tracks. The baits, containing potassium cyanide, are used to kill possums for the fur trade.

“The poison is potentially dangerous to animals such as dogs, but is not considered a risk to humans unless intentionally ingested. However we’re very concerned that someone is laying toxins illegally; they are doing it too close to tracks, on adjacent private land, and without a legal permit” says DOC Ranger, Brad Angus.

The Lindemann Loop Track at the end of Lindemann Road and Wairoa Stream Track at the end of Woodlands Road were both closed to the public on Monday following a report from a neighbouring landowner, who found the poison bait on their property and immediately called the Police. So far no evidence has been found identifying the perpetrators. DOC staff members are hoping that locals may know who it is, and that those involved will stop illegally laying the toxin.

Possum trapping and baiting on DOC administered land is encouraged in order to help control possum numbers. The permit process is free of charge, although a permit to lay toxin requires an approved handler license and an application to DOC and the Medical Officer of Health. This robust process is intended to minimise any potential public health risks associated with the use of toxins. Most of the current regular permitted possum hunters in the Kaimai area use traps rather than toxin

If anyone has information that may assist, they should contact DOC Tauranga + 64 7 578 7677 or Katikati police + 64 7 549 0004.

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