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Environment |
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VegetationVegetation on the Town Belt and Outer Green Belt ranges from exotic pine forest and grassed recreation areas to native bush and regenerating shrubland. Weed Control
Banana Passionfruit
Weeds threaten our natural environment in many ways. They can smother and kill native plants, shade them out and out-compete them. They alter the habitat and behaviour of native wildlife, reducing food sources and breeding sites. Weeds can also be a fire hazard and interfere with recreational land use. The Council has ongoing weed control programmes in our parks and reserves and in areas identified as key native eco-systems, including:
Garden Dumping
Rubbish dumped at Otari-Wilton's Bush
Unfortunately, some people use the Town Belt as a dumping ground for garden waste. Garden dumping spreads weeds into parks and reserves and smothers regenerating native seedlings. It can also encourage dumping of inorganic waste and rubbish. Garden dumping is prohibited on the Town Belt - anyone found dumping garden waste will be prosecuted under city bylaws. The best ways to dispose of garden waste are in compost bins at home, hiring a wheelie bin or bag, and as green waste at landfills. Animal Pests
Possum
Possums are detrimental to tree growth and bird populations. The Council, in partnership with Greater Wellington, runs a possum control programme. This work also helps to control rats and mice. In recent years there has been a noticeable increase in the number of native birds such as tui and kereru. The Council also works with community volunteers in areas such as Makara Peak and Redwood Bush to tackle the possum problem. Wild goats and pigs are controlled in areas such as Ngauranga Gorge, Makara Peak and the Outer Green Belt. Goats and pigs consume native vegetation, alter habitats, spread weeds and cause erosion. Introduced birds such as rooks, pest fish such as koi carp, feral cats and rabbits are all included in the council's pest management activities. Related Links
Department Details:
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