Weeds and pests

"New Zealand's indigenous fauna and flora evolved in isolation, making them vulnerable to introduced species as their defence mechanisms are often ineffective. The effects of introduced animal pests and plant weed species have been profound, threatening large numbers of indigenous species. Introduced animals such as possums, goats and deer are eating indigenous vegetation, while weeds such as wild ginger are replacing it. Rats, stoats and other predators are destroying native fauna." Quote from Department of Conservation Fact Sheet 1996: Threats to Biodiversity - Weeds and Pests.

The Department prepares a number of policies and plans which set out how to tackle the control of various pests and weeds. These include wild animal control plans such as deer and possum and a national weed strategy.

Weed control

"Weed invasions threaten the long-term viability of many of New Zealand's native habitats, particularly lowland and coastal communities already stressed and fragmented by human development."

"DOC's national strategies for ecological weed control on land it administers are:

Wild Animal Control Plans

"Section 5 of the Wild Animal Control Act 1977 gives the Department the authority to prepare wild animal control pans, outlining the strategic approach necessary for the effective control of wild animals."

"The Department has prepared and implemented wild animal control plans for thar and possums. A National Feral Goat Control Plan is also near to completion. The process for preparing a national deer control plan has begun and the proposed format will shortly be reviewed by an overview group which will include hunters and conservation NGOs." Quotes from Department of Conservation Fact Sheet 1996: Wild Animal Control Plans.