Recently received information from DOCPSITTICINE BEAK AND FEATHER DISEASE VIRUS (PBFD)
This disease may pose a serious risk to our indigenous parrots and parakeets - kaka, kea, kakariki and kakapo. DOC and MAF are working with researchers to determine the extend of this problem and to reduce risks to native species. If ou find a dead parrot or parakeet in the wild or suspect cases of PBFD phone the local DOC office on 759 0350.
Click here for more information on PBFD
POSSUM CONTROL OPERATION
DOC is planning to undertake a sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) control drop during a fine period between August-December. All tracks will be cleared of bait as the operation unfolds, however if you are walking in ENP during this time caution is advised. If you encounter any baits on the tracks you are advised to phone the local DOC office on 759 0350.
Key facts about possum control in Egmont National Park as received from DOC
Taranaki Area Office
Department of Conservation
Te Papa Atawhai
PO Box 462, New Plymouth
October 2008
The Department of Conservation’s Taranaki Area Office plans to reduce possum numbers over the 33,500 ha Egmont National Park (see map).
How it is happening
Cereal baits containing the pesticide 1080 will poison the possums. A helicopter will distribute the baits throughout the park. Poison baits are cereal pellets about 3 cm long, cylinder shaped and dyed green.
Timeframe
Bait laying will begin in the first period of favourable weather following 1 August 2009. The Department of Conservation (DOC) will contact all neighbours and place warning signs immediately prior to the operation starting.
Important information
The pesticides we use are poisonous to humans and domestic animals. Poisoning can occur through eating baits or poisoned animals. Carcasses remain poisonous until they have completely rotted, perhaps more than six months and dogs, particularly, are highly susceptible to 1080. However dogs are not permitted in Egmont National Park.
These risks can be eliminated by following these simple rules:
• DO NOT touch bait
• WATCH CHILDREN at all times
• Remember, poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. Warning signs indicate that pesticide residues may still be present in baits or animals. When signs are removed, this means that you that you can resume normal activities in the area. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs. If in doubt, check with DOC.
Why we are controlling possums
Possum browsing is severely affecting the health of the forest in Egmont National Park, our best remaining example of lowland podocarp forest in the region. Trees of rata, kohekohe, raukawa, kamahi and Hall’s totara have severe possum damage and many have died. The park is also a nationally significant habitat for native bird species such as kiwi, blue duck and New Zealand Falcon. Protection of forest habitat for these animals is vital to their long term survival. The native land snail population, a sub-species which is only found in Egmont National park, appears to be under severe predation pressure from possums.
Controlling possum populations reduces possum browse and allows forest habitat to recover. To achieve recovery we need a large reduction in possum numbers and periodic control to keep possum browse at lowered levels.
Why we are using this method We have found poison baiting a very effective and environmentally friendly form of possum control.
Helicopter sowing of baits using satellite navigation technology means that we can get an even coverage of bait. This technology also allows the pilot to be sure of the boundaries and to exclude important areas from being sown with baits such as huts, roads or water intakes. Overall, this results in higher possum kills and less risk to visitors to the park.
Operational planning
The use of this pesticide requires the consent of the Medical Officer of Health and territorial local authorities.
The Department of Conservation assesses and approves all vertebrate pesticide operations on public conservation land on behalf of the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA), following procedures approved by ERMA. DOC managers apply conditions to ensure that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.
To apply for these consents, a detailed assessment of the risks involved in the work was completed. This is called an Assessment of Environmental Effects and if you’re interested, a copy for this operation can be obtained from your local DOC office. Consent approvers can also impose conditions on the operation to further safeguard the public and the environment.
We consulted people most affected by this operation prior to finalising the operational detail. This involved considering their concerns and needs regarding the operational method and its timing.
If you suspect poisoning Always contact:
• Your Local doctor or
• Local hospital or
• National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 (non-urgent and general enquiries), or dial 111
For more information Paul Prip
Taranaki Area Office
PO Box 462. New Plymouth
Tel: 06 759 0350
Please get in touch with Paul if you want to be notified again prior to the operation.
Pesticide Operational Area
Egmont National Park
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