Clarification and feedback reminder for pest management strategy
24 February 2006

The ARC wishes to clarify and update information about some plants, including the bangalow and phoenix palms, in its pest management discussion document, Protecting Our Natural Environment.

The ARC has also extended its deadline for feedback on the discussion document to Tuesday 7 March 2006.

The purpose of the discussion document is to stimulate public debate about which pest plants and animals should be included in the Regional Pest Management Strategy for 2007-2012.

This is the first round of public feedback and there will be a second round of consultation when the new draft strategy is released for public submission from 30 June to 31 August.

Clarification and update

The ARC would like to clarify and update pages 12-13 of Protecting Our Natural Environment.

The species listed below were in fact not being considered for the National Pest Plant Accord (NPPA). The ARC apologises for any confusion which may have been caused.

Bangalow palm (Archontophoenix cunninghamii)
Kangaroo acacia (Acacia paradoxa)
Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis)

In addition, the ARC understands that the species listed below are no longer being considered for the NPPA, as the Technical Advisory Group to the NPPA has now recommended that they not be included:

Arum lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica - except cultivar Green Goddess which will still be considered)
Bear’s breeches (Acanthis mollis)
Castor oil plant (Ricinus communis)
MoreChilean rhubarb (Gunnera manicata) Note however that Gunnera tinctoria is already on the NPPA
Dusky coral pea (Kennedia rubicunda)
Elephant’s ear (Alocasia brisbanensis)
English ivy (Hedera helix subspecies helix and cultivars)
German ivy (Delairea odorata) (Senecio mikanioides)
Himalayan honeysuckle (Leycesteria formosa)
Italian arum (Arum italicum)
Montbretia (Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora)
Paperbark poplar (Melaleuca quinquinervia)

Please note, however, that all of the species in both of the above lists are still suggested for inclusion in the proposed Surveillance category (banned from sale, propagation, display and distribution) in the ARC Pest Management Strategy, and the community’s views are actively sought.

The ARC has extended its deadline for comment to Tuesday 7 March 2006.

Louise Mason, General Manager, Programmes and Partnerships, says the ARC’s current pest management strategy has been successful in controlling many pests.

“We have made a lot of progress across the region controlling possums, goats and a number of species of plants.

“We want to hear the regional community’s views on where we go next, so we would like to hear your suggestions by 7 March.”

There will also be further opportunities later this year for the public to offer feedback and submissions on the draft strategy.

Copies of Protecting Our Natural Environment, which include a questionnaire, are available from www.arc.govt.nz/biosecurity or by calling (09) 366 2000. Feedback on the discussion document now closes on 7 March 2006. Workshops will be held for those groups or individuals who need more detailed information. A new draft strategy will be released for public consultation from 30 June to 31 August 2006.

On the web:
For information on the Regional Pest Management Strategy see www.arc.govt.nz/biosecurity or call (09) 366 2000. For information on the National Pest Plant Accord see www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pests-diseases/plants/accord.htm

ENDS

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