Animal control trial planned

Press, 15 July 1980, Page 21

Animal control trial planned

p.\ Wellington lhe Forest Service will carry out a wide animal control research trial on Stewart Island, the Minister of Forests (Mr V. S. Young) has announced. The trial aims to remove deer and opossums from a two-kilometre wide strip of coastal forest stretching from Port Adventure in the south to Ocean Beach in the north.

"This trial is the final stage of extensive research into the problem of lack of regeneration of the forest after damage by salt spray and gales.” Mr Young said. Research results indicate that the recovery of the forest is very complex and is hampered' by deer and opossum browsing. Comparisons have been made with Bench Island, off shore from Stewart Island. where similar forest damage occurs, but recovery is rapid. Deer and opossums were not

present on Bench Island, said the Minister. Wildlife service scientists will be invited to minitor the effect of the control methods cm native fauna during the trial.

“The National Conservation Council has examined the situation fairlv closely and recognises that the problem needs urgent action. The council supports the need for research and will also be invited to observe the operation. “Should the trial -prove, to be successful in tackling the vegetation recovery problem on Stewart Island, the methods will I ■ used over much greater areas of the island’s badlydamaged coastal forests.” said Mr Younc.