Invasive alders to get the chop

The spread of alder, an invasive introduced tree, is threatening the natural environment of the Orari Gorge and local people will team up with Environment Canterbury to tackle the problem.

An alder control day is being held on Sunday, October 18, from 9am.

Alders were planted in the Upper Orari River many years ago as part of a soil conservation programme but have now spread downstream through the gorge.

Local land owner and member of the Orari River integrated catchment management group, Bruce Allan, said the spread of the tree has become particularly noticeable over the last 10 years.

"The trees threaten the biodiversity of the area which has a significant variety of native flora and fauna.

"They are also affecting the area's scenic beauty and they are beginning to pose a flood hazard because of the way they are spreading into the braided river channels.

"Also, they are a nuisance for recreational users," he says.

The management group is inviting anyone interested in helping to get rid of the alders to meet at the top of Orari River Rd on the north side of the river on Sunday, October 18. People are asked to come armed with loppers and gloves if possible, although some tools will be provided.

The morning's efforts will be rewarded with a barbecue lunch.

"Not only will the day help us achieve our aim of eradicating the alders completely from the catchment but it will be a great day out in a wonderful area," Mr Allan said.

Environment Canterbury's Orari-Waihi-Temuka river rating district has been working on controlling the spread of alders for several years with funding from landowners in the rating district. Help has also come from local recreational users and an eco-tourism operator.

However, the alders eradication day enables people to concentrate on particular areas of concern.

- © Fairfax NZ News