Mangapiko Stream clearing to begin

10 April 2013
A contractor has been engaged by Waipa District Council and Waikato Regional Council to clear a section of the Mangapiko Stream of willow trees and other nuisance vegetation'.

The clearing starts next week and will help ensure the stream has an unimpeded flow. A replanting programme will follow.

Water Services Manager Lorraine Kendrick said the first stage of clearing will cover the area from about 300 metres upstream to 150 metres downstream of the bridge crossing the Mangapiko Stream on SH 3 in Te Awamutu.

The project is being managed by Waipa District Council with costs being shared equally with Waikato Regional Council.

An important part of the project is to rehabilitate the stream banks with more desirable species and replanting will be carried out within 12 months as seasonal conditions allow, said Mrs Kendrick.

Discussions had taken place with the Eel Enhancement Authority Ltd. (EECo) to ensure that the clearing would have the least possible effect on the eel population in the stream.

Trees will be cut down to ground level and the stumps treated to ensure they do not regrow. The root structures which provide shelter for the eels will rot away over time while the replanting will generate a new root structure and shelter.

Mrs Kendrick said funding has been applied for in the next financial year to carry out another stage of clearing and replanting.

ENDS

For further information contact

Lisa Nairne

Senior Communications Advisor

Ph: 07 872 0062 or 027 532 1760

Email: lisa.nairne@waipadc.govt.nz