Display showcases Hurunui’s conservation heroes
Community conservation is growing in Hurunui from grassroots up.
Hurunui Council’s Water and Land Coordinator Rima Herber said the number of volunteer groups working to protect and enhance Hurunui’s natural environment is growing – and Herber is keen to harness the energy of new retirees moving into the district.
For the first time, Hurunui’s conservation heroes are being showcased in a display at the Amberley Library.
“Hurunui has some incredible success stories, such as the Nina Valley trapping project by the Hurunui College Nina Valley Restoration Group. In a new development, a group of Christchurch trampers have begun to trap the next valley over, so it extends and enhances what’s already happened.
“Things have happened as people have seen a need,” Herber said.
Herber’s role with Hurunui Council includes supporting volunteer groups working in the community on conservation projects. “Having a display of these groups will tell the story of just how many volunteer groups are out there putting in the work but it will also be a way for others to consider joining. It could be anything from a desk job to traipsing into the mountains with a trap on your back – and everything in between.”
New retirees moving into the district are one of the groups Herber is targeting.
“We’re seeing a lot of people retiring to Amberley. Volunteering with conservation groups is a way to connect with others, get into the outdoors and do something valuable for the environment.”
Herber has initiated a Weedbusters group, calling on community volunteers, that will have its first event this month clearing a bird-nesting island in the Waiau Uwha River.
Hurunui District Mayor Marie Black said the Birdsong Project in Scargill is an example of the power of community volunteering. “A group of volunteers of all ages, united by their desire to protect our bird species being threatened by disappearing habitats, is restoring a wetland ecosystem rich in native bird and plant life, and building on the efforts of earlier volunteers. They are providing a legacy for the future.”
The ‘Working Together for Hurunui Conservation’ display will be at the Amberley Library throughout May.