Reforesting Picton and Surrounds

After nine years of success in reducing predator numbers and increasing birdlife, Picton Dawn Chorus (PDC) has expanded its activities to include planting native trees in grassy and other relatively barren areas, further improving bird habitat. 

The PDC Ngahere group of volunteers carries out this effort.

The resulting improvement in the environment happily coincides with a reduction in the costs to the Council as established bush eliminates the need for regular mowing.  

There is an undeniable cost-benefit to the Council in providing plants and planting materials, relative to the ongoing costs of mowing.

The PDC Ngahere Group also works to eliminate invasive weeds in both new and existing forests. I submit that the volunteer effort deserves Council support and funding. Once again, the benefits of a flourishing bush to birds, human inhabitants, and visiting tourists provide another long-term cost-benefit for the Council.

Picton Dawn Chorus holds an enviable record for effectively utilising funding and a corresponding record of having the highest percentage of the town's population actively engaged in voluntary conservation work.

I recommend that the Council provide funds and facilities to support the continuation of the valuable work carried out by Picton Dawn Chorus.