A new project removing pest trees and clearing weeds near the confluence of the Waioeka River and Tarawa Creek is a 'double win' for the community with new jobs and long term environmental and amenity benefits in the area.
The enhancement project is a collaboration between Ōpōtiki District Council, Department of Conservation and Bay of Plenty Regional Council. The initial pest-plant removal is supported by the Provincial Growth Fund and will create jobs as part of the region's COVID-19 recovery.
Regional Council contractors will begin cutting and stacking unwanted weed trees (mostly privet, willow and woolly nightshade) this week (6 July 2020 weather dependant) and the clearing is the first step in the longer-term enhancement project to encourage recreational use and improve the environment for native species within the area.
Local residents can expect some noise from chainsaws, machinery and chippers over the coming weeks and owners of horses grazing in the area are asked to remove their animals as soon as possible.
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