Around 25 people braved the weather at Titoki Reserve last, joining DOC staff, local families and volunteer trappers for an afternoon focused on connecting with the natural world.
The event was part of the Nelson Climate Action Festival and DOC’s Always Be Naturing campaign, which encourages people to take practical steps to care for nature and get involved in their local environment.
“It was a wonderful turnout considering it started hailing as soon as the event started,” says DOC programme lead Sammy Garrett. “Just goes to show that nature doesn't stop for anyone.”
The afternoon also provided an opportunity to highlight the work of the volunteer trapping group at Titoki Reserve, which has been carrying out predator control in the Nelson City Council reserve for more than a decade.
Longtime conservationist, trapper, and co-host of the event, Chris Potter, has seen a positive impact as a result of predator control.
"Titoki Reserve is small and close to homes. These are real positives when it comes to accessibility for visitors and for trappers. But it doesn’t have a pest-proof fence, so unwanted visitors also find it irresistible. This means that predator control is ongoing and the best we can do is keep their numbers down," Chris explains.
"I think we do this quite successfully in Titoki. Small birds like piwakawaka are thriving, the Weta motel is always popular, and Oldham Creek is full of life. All these things are vulnerable to our common predators."
For those who have been trapping pests in Titoki since 2010, seeing those changes is a tangible reward for the ongoing effort. Trapping is only one part of the work however, with planting and pest plant control also requiring regular attention.
"When you walk around the tracks and hear the birds and see the traps, and don’t see gorse or Old Man’s Beard, you feel good, but know it won’t stay like that without ongoing effort. There always seem to be folk prepared to put in that effort, to keep Titoki thriving."
Chris believes that hosting public events is an important part of connecting people with their natural surroundings.
"It is very important to help people to keep in touch with our natural environment, to remind them that they are part of nature themselves. Nelson Tasman is so rich in opportunities, but many people need a helping hand to see and feel what is around them."
The afternoon also showed that getting involved in conservation does not have to mean taking on a huge commitment. For those inspired to do more, DOC’s online Action Picker connects people with a range of volunteer opportunities throughout the region and across New Zealand.
