Reducing glyphosate application in and around the awa, tributaries, drainage network.

Reducing the use of glyphosate for weed control in rivers and streams is an important environmental goal for Ngāti Kuia.

A priority for whānau is to safely harvest mahinga kai, access wai māori, support mahinga kai species.
We look forward to seeing these priorities reflected in an updated code of practice.

The Environmental Protection Authority are yet to conduct a full risk assessment on the use of glyphosate, until this has been completed, we encourage the precautionary principle approach.

1. Mechanical Weed Control: This involves physically removing weeds using tools or machinery. Methods like mowing, cutting, and dredging can be effective in managing weed growth without chemicals.
2. Biological Control: Introducing natural predators or competitors of the weeds can help control their growth. For example, certain fish species, insects, or microorganisms can be used to target specific aquatic weeds.
3. Manual Removal: In smaller areas, manual removal of weeds by hand can be effective. This method is labour-intensive but eliminates the need for chemical herbicides.
4. Mulching and Planting Native Species: Using mulch to suppress weed growth and planting native vegetation can help outcompete invasive weeds. Native plants are often better adapted to local conditions and can provide habitat for wildlife.
5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): This approach combines multiple strategies to manage weeds in an environmentally sustainable way. IPM includes monitoring weed populations, using mechanical and biological controls, and applying herbicides only when necessary.

See PMEP Volume 1 Chapter 8, Policy 8.3.9 – Improve the management of drainage channel network maintenance activities to mitigate the adverse effects from these activities on the habitats of indigenous freshwater species.

“While it is difficult to completely avoid the adverse effects of drainage channel maintenance on aquatic biodiversity, it is possible, using good environmental practice guidelines, to mitigate the nature and degree of effect from maintenance activities.”

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