Grant to combat wilding pines

The view from the Ben Lomond Saddle towards the Gorge Rd leading from Queenstown shows how the...
The view from the Ben Lomond Saddle towards the Gorge Rd leading from Queenstown shows how the wilding pines are creeping up the hillside. Photo by Henrietta Kjaer.
The battle against wilding pines surrounding Queenstown has been given a cash injection of almost $100,000 from the New Zealand Lotteries Grants Board.

The Wakatipu Wilding Conifer Control Group was formed a year ago on the initiative of the council to tackle the problem, and has representation from 56 members, including the Department of Conservation and community groups.

Group chief executive Briana O'Brien also works as district forester for the Queenstown Lakes District Council.

She said the group was "over the moon" after the funding grant of $96,581 was confirmed on Friday.

"It means a great deal for our work. We can now focus on several different areas where the wilding pines are a special concern," Ms O'Brien said.

The grant would go to five areas in particular: Home Hill at Closeburn Station, Von Valley at Mt Nicholas Station, The Station at Waitiri in Gibbston Valley, Coronet Peak Station and Queenstown Hill.

Another area known for the influx of wilding pines is Bob's Peak, where the Skyline Gondola operates.

But Ms O'Brien said Skyline Enterprises had "adopted" that area, and gave $50,000 a year specifically for control work on the hill.

The group also gets $120,000 a year from QLDC.

"The wilding pines problem is growing, and while the funding helps us a great deal, we also have to keep encouraging volunteer help.

"It would be great if more companies or individuals would adopt even the smallest areas, and thereby help take responsibility for keeping the pines in check," she said.

The Wakatipu Wilding Conifer Control Group is planning to hold a volunteer day in November.

It will hold its next meeting on August 12, at 5.30pm at the council chambers.

Ms O'Brien said anyone interested in the wilding pines situation was welcome to attend.

 

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