Another 12 months has come and gone and DUNZ is going strong. Wetlands are being recognised, more and more, for their importance in the filtering of sediment and nutrients before they get into lakes and waterways, and as feeding areas and habitat for a whole range of wildlife.
This in turn is making it easier for us to convince local bodies and government departments to take action in restoring Wetlands. The Wellington Regional Council is soon to take over management of all the publicly owned areas bordering Lake Wairarapa and turn them into a Regional Park!
CONSERVATION IS BECOMING FASHIONABLE. We must be ready to take advantage of this and expand our organisation to meet this challenge.
Other DU Projects are making considerable headway. Pateka (Brown Teal) received a boost with approximately 100 birds released in various parts of the northern North Island. Captively bred birds were also released in the South Island for the first year at the Travis Wetland which is situated on the outskirts of Christchurch. Mute Swan have done quite well this year with 5 pairs and some singles being placed with members.
Our association with Banrock Wines is still very strong and the funding we receive from them via Wetland Care helps considerably with our larger projects.
Finally, my thanks to the Board for their work over the last year and a very special thanks to Sandra Pipes for the work she does in administration. I can assure you I could not cope without her.
Ross CottlePresident << back to News