Pests on the radar
Chris Palzer and Jared Bosecke started the Mārahau Halo Trapping Project to support pest control work in the Abel Tasman National Park.
A predator control project led by local Mārahau volunteers has reached a new milestone: 1000 pests down … and counting.
The Mārahau Halo Trapping Project, founded by local accommodation providers Chris Palzer and Jared Bosecke in 2020, is designed to support pest trapping work being carried out inside neighbouring Abel Tasman National Park by the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust, the Department of Conservation and Project Janszoon.
Chris says it was a no-brainer.
“Our lines complement the work in the park, as well as in the Otūwhero Valley and the wetlands, with the aim of creating a pest-free halo around the southern entrance to the park.
“Locals have been great, and there is a good rhythm going on now. It’s been great to be able to work closely with neighbouring conservation groups, too,” she says.
Mārahau Halo Trapping Project was one of the first recipients of Mārahau Pledge funding, receiving $12,500 to support their trapping work.
Other businesses have also pitched in, and Chris and Jared say it’s been a real community effort.
So far, they’ve purchased more than 130 traps and, with the help of a team of volunteers, established five trap lines that run parallel to those inside the park.
The project began just prior to the onset of the first Covid-19 lockdown. Since then, they’ve captured 1044 pests, including rats, possums, hedgehogs and mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels), according to trap.nz. (You can stay up to date with the figures here.)
We’re stoked to have been able to support such vital work in our community and backyard! A big thanks to Chris, Jared and their dedicated volunteers.
Read more about and follow the work of the Halo Trapping Project here.
If you have a project that supports biodiversity, conservation or community outcomes here in Mārahau and are in need of financial support, tell us about it here.
