Wairoa Stream: More Vandalism
Rod Brown keeps detailed records of the effort and cost that has gone into the habitat restoration, creation of public access and maintenance of both. THe last figures from Rod were:
4.5 kms track and wildlife corridor created.
23,228 native plants planted, 1,783 in 2023 - 60 species.
Most Taiwan Cherry, Privet, Wattle, Amena, pine trees felled.
11,500 volunteer hours.
$ 408,000 total value (volunteer hours plus donations/contributions in cash or in kind)
Council contribution $25,320 (6.2%)
1,081 rats & mice, 33 possums & 3 stoats trapped (since October 2021)
Rod's figures give some perspective to the size and cost of this undertaking which has been 'hard won' over the last 10 years.
Unfortunately, the creation of public access also allows the less intelligent of our species to discover fresh grounds that they can desecrate. Even better, the rapidly growing native bush allows them to undertake this destruction away from prying eyes. Over the last few days they have been busy at work on some of our information boards and bridges. (see pictures below). These seem to be a favourite and have been regularly abused and result in considerable cost and effort to restore or replace. Money that we would far rather be spending on extensions and improvements.
If you are a regular user of the tracks and observe any suspicious behaviour please report it through to us. We may not be able to do much but any information on who these villains may be will be helpful when we report damage to the police.
