Eradicating Marsden Valley pests to create a haven for its birdlife and unique flora and fauna is the target of local volunteers who have initiated a project to set up traps aimed at eradicating rats and mustelids from the area.
The Marsden Valley Trapping Group has received financial and physical support from NBS to purchase and set ten large traps in the valley, which borders the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, which were carted into place on Thursday.
The new traps, which will replace the temporary corflute traps previously used, are expected to be more effective in reducing the local pest population.
Marsden Valley Trapping Group (MVTG) volunteer, Graham Pullyn, says the traps were set just below the ridgeline of the valley by himself and his fellow group volunteer Ian Mackay, alongside NBS staffers Anne Cox, Nic Foster and Howie Timms, and Tasman Mako first five-eighth Campbell Parata.
“Thursday’s event went really well, the first aid kit remained sealed, and no helicopters were required,” he says. “I gather it was the first-ever NBS community day where staff were given time off to be involved in a community project, so it was a privilege for us to be the flag bearer for that.
“Feedback from the staff involved indicated they would be speaking very positively to their colleagues about the experience and recommending they take advantage of any opportunity to participate in the future.”
NBS general commerical manager, Howie Timms, expressed his admiration for the volunteers.
“It’s tough and steep terrain, but a rewarding experience for NBS staff to make a contribution to the valuable mahi of this community group,” he says.
Contact marsdenvtg@gmail.com if you are keen to get involved with the Marden Valley Trapping Group’s efforts.
