NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF AERIAL 1080 OPERATION 2019: DART, ROUTEBURN AND CAPLES VALLEYS

Sep 21, 2019

Kia ora,

The Department of Conservation completed its Tiakina ngā Manu/Battle for Our Birds aerial 1080 pest control operation in the Dart, Routeburn and Caples valleys on Friday 20th September 2019.

This operation aims to protect local populations of the mohua/yellowhead, kākāriki/parakeet, whio/blue duck, piwauwau/rock wren and kaka from predators. 

The drop of biodegradable 1080 poison baits over nearly 16,000 hectares in the Dart, Routeburn and Caples valleys followed the treatment of the same area with non-toxic “pre-feed” bait on Tuesday 10 September.  

The attached factsheet contains a map of the treatment area and other useful information such as a description of the bait.

Both the pre-feed and poison operations followed stringent safety procedures and major waterways were excluded.   DOC rangers have inspected and cleared the poison baits from the major tracks within the operational area.   All tracks and huts are now open as normal.   People may still encounter some poison baits if visiting the Dart, Routeburn or Caples Valleys in the near future.

Please be aware:

The pesticide being used is poisonous to humans and domestic animals.   Warning signs are in place at all normal access points to the treatment area.   Signs will also be in DOC huts and at camping areas.  Observe the instructions on the signs for as long as they remain in place, and please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.  

The warning signs advise of four important rules:

- DO NOT touch or eat any bait
- WATCH CHILDREN at all times
- DO NOT EAT animals from these this area 
- Remember, poison baits and carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Deer repellent was used across the entire treatment area.  While repellent minimises the by-kill of deer it does not prevent it entirely.  If hunting any of these valleys afterwards the standard safety precautions apply; hunters are advised to check the DOC online pesticide summary for detailed updates. https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries/. Do not take animals for eating from the buffer zone or treatment area until the caution period is lifted. The caution period is expected to be approx. 8 months from the last day of application, though this may be shorter or longer depending on conditions.

If you suspect poisoning, always contact your local doctor or local hospital/medical centre immediately; the National Poisons Centre 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 (non urgent and general enquiries) or Dial 111.

If you have any questions feel free to contact DOC Queenstown bfobwakatipu@doc.govt.nz or 03 442 7933.

Ngā mihi,

Department of Conservation

Whakatipu-wai-Māori / Queenstown  Office

Cavells Building, 1 Arthurs Point Road | PO Box 811, Queenstown 9371

www.doc.govt.nz

 

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