Allan Wilson Centre Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti Uawa Tolaga Bay Community. UAWANUI A RUAMATUA RIVERBANK RESTORATION A Guide for Built-up Areas Draft

Transcription

1 Allan Wilson Centre Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti Uawa Tolaga Bay Community UAWANUI A RUAMATUA RIVERBANK RESTORATION A Guide for Built-up Areas Draft

2 Ko Titirangi te maunga Ko Uawanui a Ruamatua te awa. Nei ra te mihi a Te Aitanga a Hauiti. Ki te iwi whanui i runga i te ahuatanga o nga mana kaitiaki o te wai, o te whenua, otira o te tangata tonu, tihei mauri ora!

3 Table of contents 04 UAWANUI A RUAMATUA RIVERBANK RESTORATION A Guide for Built-up Areas 05 VISION 06 EXISTING VALUES Lots to Work with 07 THREATS TO THE VISION 08 ACTIONS Weed Control 09 ACTIONS Planting & Maintenance 10 RECONNECTING WITH THE RIVER 11 UAWANUI A RUAMATUA 12 APPENDIX 1: Planning 15 APPENDIX 2: Weed Control 20 APPENDIX 2: Animal Control 22 APPENDIX 3: Restoration Planting 28 APPENDIX 4: Other Opportunities

4 Uawanui a Ruamatua Riverbank Restoration A Guide for Built-up Areas INTRODUCTION This guideline has been prepared as a tool to assist the members of the Tolaga Bay community who want to get involved in enhancing and restoring their riverbank environment. It is aimed at the lower reaches of the Uawa River from Waimaunu Stream to the River mouth. The lower reaches of the Uawa River that pass through Tolaga Bay township have a rich and strong history of supporting the community. Cook s crew commented on the quality of gardens and the pleasantness of the environment through the area. The river has provided a key source of food and transport. It continues to provide fish from Kahawai to flounder and whitebait. It is an important recreational resource for the community. Over time, willow have grown wild on the riverbank area, sometimes blocking views and dominating native vegetation. Other weeds have spread, smothering low growing native vegetation and threatening tidal flats. The community are keen to work to restore the riverbank to ensure its long term health and ensure it continues to provide benefit and opportunity to the whole community. This guideline aims to present the community vision for restoration of the riverbank areas through the Tolaga Bay township. It identifies the key threats to this vision and actions that can be undertaken to protect and restore the area in order to achieve the community vision. HOW THIS GUIDELINE CAME ABOUT The Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology and Evolution began a relationship with Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti and the Uawa community through their involvement in the Transit of Venus celebrations at Tolaga Bay in June In February 2011, the Centre was approached by members of the Tolaga Bay Transit of Venus Steering Group seeking assistance with ecological restoration at the Tolaga Bay Area School and immediate environment in preparation for the Transit. Discussions revealed a range of environmental issues which Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti and the Uawa community wished to address, particularly focused around the Uawa River which reaches the sea at Tolaga Bay. There was a strong interest in examining the long term vision for sustainable management of the Uawa River Catchment as an holistic means of ensuring long term protection and enhancement of the life sustaining resources within the catchment. A project was initiated to develop a vision for sustainable management across the entire Uawa Catchment. There was also the strong desire to start something now and build on initial activities around the school to get some hands on local restoration work underway. A number of landowners around the township whose properties border the river also expressed a strong interest in involvement in restoration on their land. The initiative and input from a wide range of individuals and groups across the community has resulted in the preparation of this guide thanks to you all. 04

5 Vision He oranga wai, he oranga tangata; he oranga awa, he oranga iwi Healthy water, healthy people, healthy river, healthy community RECONNECTING TO THE RIVER 1. A river that people can see and get access to 2. Links to the township and people s properties 3. The river is a key feature and attraction of the town RESTORING NATURE 1. Restoring the native river edge vegetation sequences - Sedges, Harakeke, Raupo, Ti kouka, Kahikatea, Titoki, Totara 2. Habitat for native fish and bird species e.g. Whitebait, Tuna, Bittern, Pukeko 3. Supporting sustainable cultural harvesting e.g. Harakeke, Raupo, Whitebait, Rongoa SUSTAINING PEOPLE AND CULTURE 1. Assisting knowledge and resources around vegetable gardening and orchards 2. Resources and places for arts weaving, carving etc 3. Views, sun, shelter, shade good people environments 4. People supporting themselves living with native ecosystems Throughout all of this district the people seemed free from apprehension and as in a state of profound peace; their cultivations were far more numerous and larger than we saw them anywhere else, and they had a far greater quantity of fine boats, fine cloaks, fine carved work; in short the people were far more numerous and lived in far greater affluence than any others we saw. Joseph Banks, botanist on the Endeavour, from Two Worlds First meetings between Maori and Europeans , Anne Salmond

6 Existing values lots to work with He mana tiaki whenua He mana tiaki wai Responsible stewardship of land and water EXISTING BIRD and FISH LIFE 1. E.g. White Faced Herons, Pukeko, Flounder, Whitebait, Kahawai etc NATIVE SEDGES ON TIDAL EDGE 1. Purua grass (Bolboschoenus spp) NATIVE PLANTS AMONGST THE WEEDS 1. Native sedges, Harakeke - Raupo, Mamaku, Cabbage tree 2. Wet black swamp area some natives have hung on in this area GARDENS AND CULTURAL HARVEST 1. Good examples of gardens and orchards 2. Current skills and knowledge around weaving etc 06

7 Threats to the vision Ngā taero o te wā PEST ANIMALS SMOTHERING OF TIDAL FLATS 1. Spartina Grass - removes habitat for wading birds 1. Eat plants and plant seeds - Stock, Rabbits, Rats, Possums 2. Pest animals predate young birds - Rats, Stoats, Ferrets, Cats WEEDS ACROSS THE RIVERBANK 1. Tree weeds that overtop natives - Willow 2. Smothering vines and ground cover - Japanese Honeysuckle, Morning Glory, Tradescantia 3. Vigorous shrub weeds that smother natives - Ginger 4. Vigorous weeds in open areas - Pampas, Gorse DUMPING AND POLLUTANTS 1. Dumping of garden waste - spreads weeds 2. Septic tank discharge 07

8 Actions weed control Ngā tūmahi CONTROL SPARTINA GRASS 1. Coordinated control of Spartina Grass 2. Planned work along whole river area CONTROL VINES, SHRUB AND OTHER WEEDS 1. Prioritise work (see weed appendix page 15) WILLOW CONTROL 1. Kill willows where they stand 2. Fell and/or remove willows where they are dangerous, otherwise leave to rot down over time FOLLOW UP WEED CONTROL 1. Control regrowth of weeds 3. Potential eradication PLANNING GENERAL APPROACH Bite-sized areas of action on main riverbank area pick some visible public land areas first Prioritise areas with existing native vegetation least weeds Follow right through with areas under control and stable, before starting new areas PROTECT / RESCUE EXISTING NATIVES Identify areas of native sedges, native trees and shrubs Clear weeds away Work out from area with weed control develop buffer and allow natives to spread 08

9 Actions planting & maintenance Te whakatō, te ngaki ANIMAL CONTROL 1. Keeping stock and horses out of planted areas 2. Control rabbits 3. Trapping of predators - Rats, Stoats, Ferrets, Weasels, Possums PLANTING 1. Plant over winter once the worst weeds are under control 2. Key species planted in correct zone e.g. Sedges, Harakeke, Raupo, Manuka 3. Local planting of enrichment species e.g. Kahikatea, Pukatea, etc MAINTAIN PLANTING AREAS 1. Release plantings - clear away / control weeds around plants 2. Continue to check and care for planting until well established (2-3 years). OTHER OPPORTUNITIES WORK TOGETHER TO STOP DUMPING AND POLLUTANTS Work with others to stop dumping of garden waste e.g. encourage / support composting Keep rubbish away from the river Information and support to manage septic tanks well SHARE AND PROMOTE GARDENING KNOWLEDGE AND PATHWAYS Look at ways to share knowledge and support gardening for healthy nutrition and the environment Where there is landowner support develop walkway access along riverbank 09

10 Reconnecting with the river 10

11 Uawanui a Ruamatua 11

12 Restoration of Uawa riverbank areas below Waimaunu Stream presents a major task for the local community. However, with a coordinated approach and support from across the community, it is also a small enough area where major changes can be made in a period of perhaps 10 years. Achieving the type of vision expressed by the community, and set out in this guide, will require a planned and consistent approach, with landowners actively getting involved on their own properties but having access to support, advice and coordination of resources such as labour and contractors. This section identifies some key points that need to be taken into account in restoring this area. APPENDIX 1: PLANNING Making it work for people and nature START WITH SOMETHING EASY AND VISIBLE FIRST: maybe look for an area of public land. Make sure there is wide support for work in this area. This needs to be a demonstration area that lots of people can access and where early lessons can be learnt. MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS ON BOARD, ESPECIALLY NEIGHBOURS: Before deciding to work on an area, talk to neighbours, people across the street etc and make sure people are keen on the idea. Don t start somewhere if there is opposition or problems. There may be existing areas of work by landowners, and work by the School that can be built on. KEEP PEOPLE IN THE LOOP: Make sure that people around the area and who might be affected understand what is being done and why. Avoid surprises. GO FOR BITE-SIZED CHUNKS - GET AN AREA SORTED OUT BEFORE MOVING ON TO SOMETHING NEW: Individual operations, such as killing areas of willows, may not take a lot of time and effort however managing ongoing control of a range of different weeds, looking after new plantings until they are well developed etc does take a lot of time. Make sure you have the time, resources, support etc to carry an area through to completion before you start. It is better to leave a smaller number of successes that will inspire others. CAREFULLY LOOK OVER A WORK AREA FIRST - SEE WHAT IS THERE ALREADY THAT YOU WANT TO WORK WITH AND PROTECT: Many riverbank areas have some native plants amongst the weeds that can be rescued. Existing non weedy introduced trees may be important to retain for shelter, and landscape benefits etc. The table on page 13 outlines some of the species that may be present. 12

13 Native plant species that may be present Species Image Where Protecting and encouraging it HARAKEKE (Phormium tenax) Some groups of plants are present on the riverbank. Larger areas are present toward Waimaunu Stream. Kill overtopping willows. Clear away and control other weeds (see Appendix 2). Where appropriate, divide up existing plants and plant to expand the area. RAUPO (Typha orientalis) Patches of raupo present in wet black swamp areas that have not been overtopped by willows and other weeds. Kill overtopping willows. Japanese Honeysuckle is often present growing through these areas and needs to be cleared and controlled (see Appendix 2). Rooted raupo plants can be dug up and re-planted to expand the area. RAUTAHI, CUTTY GRASS (Carex geminata) Present in some wetter areas, often where wet sites have reduced weed growth. Kill overtopping willows. Clear away and control weed species such as Japanese Honeysuckle and blue Morning Glory (see Appendix 2). KAWAKAWA (Macropiper excelsum) Present under willow areas in more sheltered parts of the riverbank. Will survive in the understorey beneath willows. Make sure smothering weeds such as blue Morning Glory and Japanese Honeysuckle are pulled off the plant and controlled (see Appendix 2). Kill overtopping willows and replace with native species. Ideally leave the willows to break down over time to provide some initial shelter. KARAMU (Coprosma robusta) Very hardy plant present through a range of riverbank areas. Control smothering species such as Japanese Honeysuckle and blue Morning Glory. Kill overtopping willows (see Appendix 2). If there are an abundance of small karamu seedlings they can be dug up and transplanted relatively easily in winter to expand areas of this species. PUKIO (Carex secta, Carex virgata) Some patches present in more open wet areas of riverbank. Kill overtopping willows. Pull off and control sprawling weeds such as blue Morning Glory and Japanese Honeysuckle (see Appendix 2). MAMAKU (Cyathea medullaris) Occasional mamaku present on edges of and under willows in wet areas. Control vine species such as blue Morning Glory where they are climbing onto these species and may smother them. Cut vines and carefully control regrowth (see Appendix 2). Kill overtopping willows. Where possible, fell parts of willow, once they are dead, that could fall on mamaku. 13

14 Not all introduced trees are weeds As well as the problem of crack willow, a range of large exotic trees are present through the riverbank area that do not cause any immediate threat to natural values. In fact many of these trees are important for the look of the place and maintaining important shelter and shade. Old exotic trees may also have important heritage values. In most cases these trees should be retained, at least until native trees are large and fulfilling the same roles of shelter, shade and landscape scale. A table of some species is set out below. Species Image Where NOTES WEEPING WILLOW (Salix babylonica) Occasional individual weeping willow are present on the rivers edge. Weeping willow do not spread aggressively like crack willow. They can be an attractive amenity tree, particularly until natives have established. They should generally be retained at least until replacement native trees are of a similar size. LOMBARD POPLAR (Populus nigra Italica ) These upright poplar trees are present in some areas, further back from the waters edge, along the base of the terrace or other areas. A number of trees are present on the south side of the river, upstream from the bridge. The height and prominence of these trees is important while other tall growing trees are getting established. Lombard poplars do not spread aggressively, so are not a significant weed problem. FRUIT TREES Old fruit trees are present in some areas, further back from the river on the terrace face. Species such as apple and plum do not usually spread aggressively. These trees provide a useful food resource for people and could be further improved with a bit of maintenance pruning etc. Clear away any climbing weeds that threaten them and kill overtopping willows. PLAN CLEARANCE AND RESTORATION PLANTING TO PLEASE PEOPLE: Vegetation can have direct impacts on people s views, shelter and shade. Views: make sure views to the river or to maunga like Titirangi will be retained and improved. This doesn t mean everything needs to be completely open - often the nicest views are framed by larger trees, just don t create a dense screen between people and views. Shelter: shelter important living spaces, where people like to sit and hang out, from cooler southern winds. Also consider the other problem, prevailing winds. Shade: avoid planting or vegetation that is too close to houses that will create problem winter shade. Keep vegetation further away on the north side of buildings and living spaces. PREPARE A MORE SPECIFIC PLAN FOR A PARTICULAR SITE OR GROUP OF SITES: This guideline provides a range of ideas and tools for restoration. However every site along the river will have a different combination of existing values, weeds, requirements for views, shelter and shade etc. Wherever possible work with others to put together a simple plan / map of weed control and planting. Use an aerial photograph, or draw a map. Map out weed areas, when and how you will control them. Identify key views, shelter needs and areas where you want to avoid shade plan planting areas to provide this. SET UP A MECHANISM FOR ONGOING COORDINATION: This is a project over a significant timeline, probably 10 years for the main implementation, then ongoing management. It will require landowners, the community and organisations working together. It will also require coordination of actions so they can be matched to available labour, money etc. Are there existing organisations that could help provide ongoing coordination? Will they be able to work well with all the different parties involved? Can they apply for and manage external grants or other funds? Make sure that a workable long term approach to coordinating the implementation of the project is in place. 14

15 Weed control is the biggest challenge facing restoration of the Uawa riverbanks in Tolaga Bay township. a wide range of weeds is present. The key species that will require control are set out in the table below. It is not an exhaustive list. New weeds may also become important in the future. For additional information consult specialists or information sources listed below the table. Careful use of selected herbicides is generally required for initial control followed up with maintenance spraying. Use of chemical herbicides should be minimised and they should be used in a careful and controlled way. As the project moves forward there will be less reliance on chemicals for weed control. APPENDIX 2: WEED CONTROL 15

16 Species Impact Chemical control Source weedbusters, Auckland Council biosecurity Notes on control * Control impacts NON CHEMICAL OPTIONS CRACK WILLOW (Salix fragillis) Priority for control: High Spreads along riverbanks and through wetland areas. Overtops and smothers out native wetland plants. Blocks views and access to the river. Clogs waterways. Dense matt of willow roots in streams can result in less habitat for native aquatic life. Drill and fill (summer-autumn): Make 1 hole every 100mm around the trunk and saturate each hole with undiluted glyphosate (10ml). Kill trees standing and leave to rot and collapse where falling limbs will not cause a problem. Where falling trees could cause a problem, (e.g. near roads), fell once dead, but before tree becomes brittle and dangerous (e.g. around 6 months after poisoning). Alternatively if essential to remove live material, remove all cut material. Leave regrowth to grow to 0.5-1m long, then spray. Spray (full leaf stage only): glyphosate (250ml/L + penetrant, total coverage needed) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (5g/10L in December). Stumps will regrow and any felled or broken live material will regrow on contact with the ground. Non chemical control is very difficult requiring complete removal of all live willow material and ongoing removal of regrowth. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. JAPANESE HONEYSUCKLE (Lonicera japonica) Sprawling and climbing vine. Climbs over and smothers native plants and small trees. Slower growing than blue Morning Glory so easier to control. Small localised sites Dig out (all year round). Dispose of roots and stems at a refuse transfer station, burn or bury deeply. Extensive low sprawling areas If there are native species to be protected, hand pull and gather the vines. Follow up spray in spring of patches of regrowth with glyphosate (10ml/L + penetrant) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (2g/10L + penetrant). Repeat hand pulling followed by follow up spray in the following spring, until full control achieved. If there are no species to be protected, spray the entire area (chemical options as above). Climbing over trees and shrubs Cut the vines at a convenient height in winter and spray the regrowth in the spring with glyphosate (10ml/L + penetrant) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (2g/10L + penetrant). Smaller numbers of vines Cut and paint stump (all year round): metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (5g /L) or Vigilant gel. Leave vines in trees to die, dispose of cut stems at a refuse transfer station, burn or bury deeply. Localised control of small infestations may be possible by digging out and removal. Larger infestations require chemical control. Priority for control: High 16

17 Species Impact Chemical control Source weedbusters, Auckland Council biosecurity Notes on control * Control impacts NON CHEMICAL OPTIONS BLUE MORNING GLORY (Ipomea indica) Sprawling and climbing vine. Climbs over and smothers native plants and trees. Smaller areas Hand pull, dig out roots (all year round). Dispose of roots at a refuse transfer station or bury deeply. Leave cut plant material to rot down on site. Cut down and paint stump (all year round): glyphosate (100ml/L) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (1g/L). Climbing over trees and shrubs Cut vines at waist height (summer-autumn) and spray foliage below: glyphosate (10ml/L + penetrant) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (2g/10L + penetrant (knapsack) or 20g/100L + penetrant (spraygun)). Follow up to check that slashed stems have not resprouted. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: High GREAT BINDWEED (Calystegia silvatica) Sprawling and climbing vine. Climbs over and smothers native plants and trees. Apply same control approach as blue Morning Glory. Difficult species to control ongoing follow up required. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: High WANDERING JEW (Tradescantia fluminensis) Sprawling ground cover that can grow in deep shade under native vegetation. Smothers out regeneration of native seedlings and low growing plants. Small areas Rake and roll up (usually small spots only, to minimise initial spray). Best in drought period. Work towards centre. Dispose of at a refuse transfer station, burn or bury. Usually spray follow up. Major disposal problem, dropped fragments can spread infestation. Larger areas Spray: triclopyr 600 EC (6ml/L + penetrant) or Yates Hydrocotyle Killer (30ml/L + penetrant) or triclopyr 300 EC (12ml/L). 90+% kill. Follow up quickly (2-3 months) before plant recovers. 2-3 treatments needed for total control. Weed wipe: triclopyr 600 EC (250ml/L + penetrant) or triclopyr 300 EC (500ml/L). Follow up as above. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: Medium 17

18 Species Impact Chemical control Source weedbusters, Auckland Council biosecurity Notes on control * Control impacts NON CHEMICAL OPTIONS SPARTINA GRASS (Spartina alterniflora, Spartina anglica, Spartina x townsendii) Priority for control: High Sprawling and climbing vine. Climbs over and smothers native plants and small trees. Slower growing than blue Morning Glory so easier to control. Spreads across intertidal mudflat areas and forms a permanent dense cover on these areas. Destroys highly important intertidal habitat for wading birds and other species of intertidal areas. Binds up sediment causing sediment accumulation. Fragments dislodged by stock, boat propellers etc can spread on tide and currents. A survey will need to be carried out by Gisborne District Council (GDC) to determine its distribution and what resources are required to control this plant. Spartina can be effectively controlled with Gallant (Halloxyfop) herbicide. Control should be coordinated by Gisborne District Council and/or the Department of Conservation who have experience with control. Some control is provided by GDC under their regional pest management strategy. Work with Gisborne District Council to achieve coordinated control. PAMPAS (Cortaderia selloana) Tall exotic grass that spreads rapidly through open areas. Smothers out native riverbank plants. Establish that the species is not Toetoe. Toetoe has white waxy coating on base of leaves close to ground level. Physical control: Dig or grub out seedlings or small plants. Chainsaw small plants and remove sizeable plants by machine (e.g. Excavator). Compost or leave on site to rot down. Burn or bury any flowerheads. Weed wipe (all year round): glyphosate (200ml/L + penetrant). Spray: Gallant (150ml/10l + crop oil) for most sites or glyphosate (100ml/10L + penetrant) for very dense sites. Use a marker dye to avoid wastage and a foaming agent to help prevent spray drift. Leave the plants in the ground until the roots have died off. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: Medium 18

19 Species Impact Chemical control Source weedbusters, Auckland Council biosecurity Notes on control * Control impacts NON CHEMICAL OPTIONS GORSE (Ulex europaeus) Spreads through riverbank areas. Overtops and smothers native species. Not generally as vigorous as crack willow. Smaller infestations Cut and remove (take care not to spread seed), and paint stumps with herbicide. Stump swab: glyphosate (250ml/L) or metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (2g/L) or triclopyr 600 EC (250ml/L) or Tordon Brushkiller (100ml/L) or Vigilant gel. Spraying of individual plants see herbicide options below. Patches and larger infestations Spray (spring-summer): triclopyr 600 EC (20ml/10L) or triclopyr 300 EC (40ml/10L). Spray (autumn-winter): metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (5g/10L+ penetrant - knapsack) or (20g/100L + penetrant - spraygun) or Tordon Brushkiller (250ml/100L spraygun). Gorse produces a very large amount of long lived (decades)seed, so ongoing follow up control is required. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: Medium SILVER POPLAR (Populus alba) Spreads through riverbank areas. Overtops and smothers native species. Not generally as vigorous as crack willow. Spray small plants at full leaf stage (100ml glyphosate/10l). For larger plants, either frill larger plants (feather cut bark), paint (250ml glyphosate/1l); or cut and stump paint (5g metsulfuron/1l); or inject 2ml of 20gmetsulfuron/1L into cuts/holes at 10cm intervals around trunks. Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. Priority for control: Medium PHOENIX PALM (Phoenix canariensis) Priority for control: Medium Can spread through riverbank areas. Produces large amounts of bird spread seed. Potential to smother out native species. Prolific seeder that has potential to colonise a wide range of habitats. Dries out watertable and can alter coastline, causing buildup or erosion of sand. Spikes on base of fronds are a health hazard. Dig out seedlings and small plants. Cut and stump paint (250ml glyphosate/1l). NB felled trunk can resprout, so watch for regrowth and control or use stem-inject technique as below. Stem-inject all year round 10ml undiluted glyphosate for every 100mm stem diameter. Insert at least 25mm into core, near to ground. Spray fresh growth spring - summer, (200ml glyphosate+20ml penetrant/10l). Ensure operations using herbicide are managed by growsafe certified operator. Generally use contractors for spraying operations. 19

20 APPENDIX 2: Animal Control Pest animals can cause considerable damage to native vegetation areas and to gardens. They are currently less of a threat to restoration than weeds, but will become more important as weeds are controlled in some areas and planting undertaken. A table of the main species likely to require management/control are set out on page 21. A variety of the control methods require use of kill traps or poison. Where these are being used, high quality public information will be required to avoid risks to the public and pet animals. The security of traps, both kill and live traps, needs to considered as these items are expensive to replace. 20

21 STOCK RABBITS AND HARES RAT STOATS, WEASELS AND FERRETS WILD CATS POSSUMS Species Priority for control: High Priority for control: High Priority for control: Medium Priority for control: Medium Priority for control: Low Priority for control: Medium Impact Browsing and trampling of native vegetation and restoration areas by stock and horses. May browse native seedlings and new plantings making establishment more difficult. Will eat seeds of native plants and slow regeneration. Prey on young birds on nest. Prey on native birds and other small wildlife. Prey on birds and other small wildlife. Browse native plants. control Fencing and removal. Shooting. Gisborne District Council can undertake initial control by controlled night shooting. Poison baits-pindone. Trapping, requires high density of traps m between traps. Bait stations with toxic bait. Again, due to small home range need m between bait stations. Kill traps in tunnels. DoC 200 or DoC 250 trap types. These animals are much more mobile, so traps can be spaced at greater intervals through the riverbank area. A line of traps 200m apart up each side of the river could be used. Control difficult in this area where domestic cats present. Possible use of cage traps allowing mark and release of domestic cats and destruction of feral cats. Use of bait stations with toxic bait. Use of safe kill traps e.g. tims trap. Need a network of bait stations or traps spaced approximately 100m apart. Notes on control Fencing can be a significant cost. It is important that stock are permanently removed from areas to be planted, as only a short period of stock browsing can do a lot of damage. Rabbits are likely to be more of a problem in some areas, particularly drier areas. Repellents can be sprayed on new plantings to reduce damage. Plastic sleeves over plants can also prevent damage. Ongoing control will be required while new planting is establishing. Work with GDC biosecurity team on options. Work with DoC and GDC biosecurity team on options. Work with DoC and GDC biosecurity team on options. Work with DoC and GDC biosecurity team on options. Work with DoC and GDC biosecurity team on options. 21

22 This section provides a guide to the main species for use along the lower Uawa River. It is deliberately focused on using the most common species that would be first to colonise the area naturally. Many of these species are already present as individuals or small patches where they have managed to hang on in spite of weed competition. As set out under planning always look at what local native species are already present on your site and see how you can look after these and encourage them to spread this will generally be the cheapest and easiest way to restore native vegetation. Many large areas of the riverbank are so severely covered in weeds that they require major clearance first, followed by replanting in natives. APPENDIX 3: RESTORATION PLANTING PLANTING ZONES: There is a sequence of different types of land from the edge of the Uawa River across wet flats and up onto a higher terrace. Different plants are adapted to these different soil and drainage conditions, so it is important to plant the right plants in the right place. This also means planting will reflect the natural pattern that is present so will look natural and attractive. The different planting zones are shown in the diagram above. The species to plant table identifies which species to plant in different areas, and the approximate percentage mix of species in different areas. SPECIES: The lists on page give the most common species that are either already present or would be likely to colonise the area. Focusing on establishing these robust faster growing species first will mean that there is a greater chance of beating weed regrowth and that other less common species that would naturally regenerate over time can be gradually planted as individuals or small groups. A selection of these species are listed as enrichment species in the different zones. Use seedlings propagated from seed collected from the local area this is called ecosourcing (using seed from the same ecological area). 22

23 Tidal edge Species MIX NOTES PURUA GRASS (Bolboschoenus fluviatalis / medianus) PURUA GRASS (Bolboschoenus fluviatalis / medianus) 100% Not generally available commercially. Can be easily planted from rooted pieces from other parts of the river. Ensure that any transplants are taken from areas free of spartina grass to avoid moving this weed. Dense plantings on edge of mud flat area. 20% Refer to the photo in the Tidal Edge section. Species MIX NOTES RAUTAHI, CUTTY GRASS (Carex geminata) NIKAU (Rhopalostylis sapida) 30% Patches of this are already present. 100% Striking species that was originally common through the area. Quite slow growing, but will grow underneath forest. Lower bank Crest or levee HARAKEKE (Phormium tenax) PUKIO (Carex secta, Carex virgata) MANUKA (Leptospermum scoparium) KARAMU (Coprosma robusta) TI KOUKA, CABBAGE TREE (Cordyline australis) 40% Ensure appropriate local seed sources are used. Can also be propagated by division of existing plants where these are available. 40% Can be overtopped by weeds, so make sure weeds are well under control. Plant in dense clumps. Some plants already present here and there in wet areas. 30% 30% Already present in some areas. 10% Scattered individual plants already present. HARAKEKE (Phormium tenax) PUKIO (Carex secta, Carex virgata) MANUKA (Leptospermum scoparium) KARAMU (Coprosma robusta) TI KOUKA, CABBAGE TREE (Cordyline australis) Edge of black swamp RAUTAHI, CUTTY GRASS (Carex geminata) PUKATEA (Laurelia novaezelandiae) 40% Refer to the photo in the Lower Bank section. 20% Refer to the photo in the Lower Bank section. 10% 10% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section. 10% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section. 10% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section. 20% 23

24 Edge of black swamp Species MIX NOTES KAHIKATEA (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) MAMAKU (Cyathea medullaris) WHEKI (Dicksonia squarrosa) 20% 30% Occasional mature tree ferns present on riverbank area. 30% Species MIX NOTES TI KOUKA, CABBAGE TREE (Cordyline australis) RAUTAHI, CUTTY GRASS (Carex geminata) HARAKEKE (Phormium tenax) KAHIKATEA (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) MANUKA (Leptospermum scoparium) 5% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Refer to the photo in the Lower Bank section on page % Refer to the photo in the Edge of Black Samp section. 20% Avoid dense stands of manuka on terrace face below houses due to greater fire risk. black swamp HARAKEKE (Phormium tenax) RAUPO (Typha orientalis) GIANT UMBRELLA SEDGE, COASTAL CUTTY GRASS (Cyperus ustulatus) 35% Areas of raupo already present where willows are less dense. 25% Refer to the photo in the Lower Bank section on page 23. Leaves are very sharp and can cause deep cuts so plant with caution in areas where children play or there is high public use. Terrace face TI KOUKA, CABBAGE TREE (Cordyline australis) PUKATEA (Laurelia novae-zelandiae) KAHIKATEA (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) MAMAKU (Cyathea medullaris) WHEKI (Dicksonia squarrosa) 20% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Refer to the photo in the Edge of Black Samp section on page % Refer to the photo in the Edge of Black Samp section. 20% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Refer to the photo in the Edge of Black Samp section. PUKIO (Carex secta, Carex virgata) 10% Refer to the photo in the Lower Bank section on page 23. TITOKI (Alectryon excelsus) 30% MANUKA (Leptospermum scoparium) 15% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page

25 Species MIX NOTES IMAGE COPYRIGHT Terrace TOP KARAMU (Coprosma robusta) MAMAKU (Cyathea medullaris) KANUKA (Kunzea ericoides) TI KOUKA, CABBAGE TREE (Cordyline australis) TITOKI (Alectryon excelsus) TOTARA (Podocarpus totara) PURIRI (Vitex lucens) 30% Avoid dense stands near buildings where fire could be a problem. 30% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Avoid dense stands near buildings where fire could be a problem. 10% Refer to the photo in the Crest or levee section on page % Potential long term timber for carving. Plant small stands where appropriate (e.g. where won t block views or cause shading). 20% 30% Refer to the photo in the Terrace Face section. Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation; Te Papa Atawhai Boardwalk Ti Kouka, Cabbage Tree (Cordyline Australis) Harakeke (Phormium Tenax)... 13, 23 Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus Dacrydioides) Karamu (Coprosma Robusta)... 13, 23 Kawakawa (Macropiper Excelsum) Mamaku (Cyathea Medullaris)... 13, 24 Nikau (Rhopalostylis Sapida) Pukeko / Pukio (Carex secta, Carex virgata)... 02, 13, 23 Puriri (Vitex Lucens) Raupo (Typha Orientalis)... 13, 24 Spartina Grass (Spartina Alterniflora, Spartina Anglica, Spartina X Townsendii) Stock Totara (Podocarpus Totara) White faced Heron Wild Cat... 07, 21 Image Copyright: Faey Szeuw Vegetable Garden... 05,29 Image Copyright: John Haslam Gorse (Ulex Europaeus) Image Copyright: John Spavin Wheki (Dicksonia Squarrosa) Image Copyright: John Tann Wandering Jew (Tradescantia Fluminensis) Image Copyright: New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN); Peter de Lange Giant Umbrella Sedge, Coastal Cutty Grass (Cyperus Ustulatus) Kanuka (Kunzea Ericoides) Titoki (Alectryon Excelsus) Image Copyright: New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN); Wayne Bennett Pukatea (Laurelia Novae-Zelandiae) Image Copyright: Neil Gould Fruit Tree Image Copyright: Reg McKenna Rat Image Copyright: Simon Wade Flax Weaving Image Copyright: Stuart Creegan Possum... 09,21 Image Copyright: Wendy Schotsmans Flax

26 SITE PREPARATION: Before undertaking planting make sure problem weeds on the site are well under control. Any weeds that remain need to be able to be controlled while protecting new plantings from herbicide or other control method. An ideal timeline for preparing and undertaking planting is set out below. This approach can be altered where there are fewer weeds and other resources available that make it quicker to prepare the site. Dry sites can be planted in autumn and early winter. Wet sites are better planted in spring. PLANTING: Make sure that Plant stock should be healthy and free of disease, yellowing etc. Plants grown in pots should have a good healthy root mass that holds soil together when they are removed from the root trainer or pot. Plants that are produced open grown and provided bare rooted should have well developed root systems with abundant fibrous roots. Handle plants carefully and don t leave them exposed to sun and wind where they can dry out. Open a planting hole that is big enough to easily hold the plant. Remove the plant from its root trainer, planter bag or pot. Ease the plant into the hole so the ground level is the same as it was in the pot. Replace soil so it is around the entire root system and gently firm the soil in with the toe of your boot. Timing Operation Notes 2-5 YEARS prior to planting 2 YEARS prior to planting 2 YEARS prior to planting 1 YEAR prior to planting 1-2 MONTHS prior to planting Identify and assess sites for planting Plan for nursery production Begin weed control on areas with difficult shrub weeds Follow up control on areas with difficult shrub weeds Pre plant spot spray Organise nursery. Collect seed (1-2 years before planting depending on species). Identify areas with willow, Morning Glory, bindweed etc that will require a number of control operations. Identify if weeds are fully under control. Re-treat if necessary. Not possible in very wet areas. JUNE JULY* Planting May vary from May September. Can plant later in wetter areas and with container grown stock. 26

27 Use of planting sleeves Plastic planting sleeves can be placed over the plant on stakes. They provide considerable advantage in: Protecting the plant from browsing by rabbits and hares. Sheltering plants on more exposed sites and helping retain moisture. Making it easier to re-find and release plants if weeds grow around them. This includes making it easier to carefully spray around them with herbicide. Once plants are well established, the sleeves can be removed and re-used. RELEASING / MAINTENANCE: Looking after plants once they are planted is crucial to the success of your planting. Most important is making sure that weeds growing around the plant are cleared away or controlled before they smother the plant. Maintenance timeline Timing Operation Notes 1-2 MONTHS after planting FIRST OCTOBER after planting FIRST MARCH after planting FIRST WINTER after planting Inspection and maintenance Releasing Inspection Replacement planting in any areas of poor survival if necessary Check for obvious issues of vandalism, loose plants. Fix where possible. Assess first to identify if releasing is required. If grass and weeds are growing around plant, control weed growth by clearing away weeds by hand or careful herbicide use (see below). Check survival. Identify if releasing will be required in following spring, or possibly autumn if weed issues are already present. Identify if replacement planting will be required in the winter planting season. Only undertake if less than 75% survival in March inspection. SECOND OCTOBER after planting Releasing Check plantings and release where necessary. SECOND MARCH after planting Inspection Check if areas are free to grow, i.e. are ahead of competing vegetation and can be left with minor ongoing maintenance. 27

28 APPENDIX 4: Other Opportunities GARDENS FOR FOOD: Tolaga Bay / Uawa has a long history of gardening. On the first arrival of Europeans in the area, Cook s crew commented on the quality of the gardens. Gardening to provide fresh vegetables and fruit provides a way for people to live directly from the natural resources of the area. It also has real benefits for health and wellbeing. There are great examples of gardens in the area and opportunities to share and develop skills and support growth in gardening. Work could be undertaken to share knowledge and provide additional resources of local information and support for gardening. 28

29 DEVELOPING PATHWAYS: Providing walking pathways along the river is an exciting possibility, but needs to be carefully thought through. Some key points to consider are Make sure there is support from landowners and the community Ensure pathways are located to maintain sufficient privacy Concentrate on public land Consider how to create walking loops and links from the river to the coast, roadways etc Have a consistent design standard for paths Use boardwalks over wet areas to allow easy year round access Plan pathways to follow natural lines and curves along the riverbank Consider including information signage interpreting the rich cultural history of the area WORKING TOGETHER TO AVOID DUMPING AND POLLUTANTS: Management of water quality is important across the whole catchment. Everyone needs to work on making sure we have healthy water It needs to be worked on locally at Tolaga Bay township. There is an opportunity to set an example of how we can all be responsible. Encourage people to do the right thing and not dump garden waste Dumping of green garden waste on riverbank areas is a source of weeds. Green weed material can sprout and begin growing in restoration areas. Garden waste can also contain weed seeds. At the time of producing this guide, a charge for dumping greenwaste at the transfer station is about to be introduced by Gisborne District Council. This may require extra effort in stopping dumping along the riverbank. Make sure everyone knows the problems dumping can cause and find ways to provide alternatives such as composting. Manage septic tanks well Well managed septic tanks are an effective way to deal with sewage on site. However if poorly maintained they can cause problems and potentially result in leaching of wastewater into waterways. Gisborne District Council has recently introduced a requirement for property owners in residential zones to clean septic tanks out at least once every five years and for a basic check to be done by the septic tank cleaners. Some points to help make sure septic tanks continue to work well are: Minimise water use, e.g. avoid leaking taps running into septic tanks Use biodegradable soaps and cleaners Reduce fats / grease input, e.g. scrape plates before washing Don t flush sanitary products or other non biodegradable solids Check sludge levels and pump out the tank every 3-5 years Get the system checked if there are problems such as smells or wet patches in the disposal field area 29

30 Prepared by Peter Handford and Clive Anstey, PA Handford & Associates Ltd Designed by Loudhailer Design