Oruatua - weeds out, trees in
Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Introduction
500 native plants filled the large gap that Hilltop School Weedbusters created after removing weeds from the Oruatua conservation scenic reserve.Date: 04 October 2013
Native trees filling in the large gap after the Hilltop School Weedbusters removed broom and cotoneaster.
Five hundred native plants filled the large gap that Hilltop School Weedbusters created after removing weeds from the Oruatua conservation scenic reserve.
On the last day of term the 70 year 7 and 8 students took to the weeds for their fourth working bee, this time with the extra reward of planting native plants to re-establish the native bush. One of the parents of the students of Wairakei Estate generously donated the native plants to the group.
The Department of Conservation values the work these students are undertaking. “It is fantastic to see youth take ownership in restoring a local conservation area” says Leith Rhynd, senior ranger of biodiversity.
Rather than cart the weeds to the land fill, this time the group hired a mulcher, and placed the mulch around the base of the native trees to prevent weed growth and helps the plants retain moisture.
Lead teacher Collette Taylor explains “The kids were thrilled but we were all shattered from working hard in the heat of the day”. The children need to rest these holidays, as they are returning to continue to battle the weeds next term.
Contact
Jonathan Maxwell
Partnerships Manager King Country
Department of Conservation
Phone: +64 7 892 3461
Mobile: +64 27 246 8628
jpmaxwell@doc.govt.nz