28 September 2009

Environmental Interpretation Panels unveiled at Pine Ridge

On Sunday September 27, a new set of Environmental Interpretation Panels was unveiled by Councillor Ann Hartley at the Pine Ridge apartment complex in Highbury.

The three newly designed and installed panels provide information about the Eskdale stream and the surrounding catchment area, its history, and the various plants and animals that live in and around this ecologically valuable stream.

The panel installation marks nearly two years of hard work by the Pine Ridge community and council staff to enhance an 80 metre length of the Eskdale stream and restore 1000 square metres of native bush around the stream adjacent to the Pine Ridge apartment complex.

Prior to the commencement of this partnership in January 2008, the area was in poor shape. There were large areas of weed infestation, rubbish strewn throughout the area, problems with mosquitoes, and native plants and animals were overwhelmed by large rat and possum populations.

Now Pine Ridge residents have a calm green oasis which is inviting, accessible and free of weeds, rubbish and many unwanted pests.

In partnership with the Pine Ridge community, Council has constructed new steps leading into the bush and has built two fish ladders to allow and encourage native fish such as Kokopu and eels to venture upstream into the headwaters of the stream around Pine Ridge.

Since January 2008, approximately 1800 native plants have been planted around the stream by residents and property owners.

“So much as been achieved by this Stream Enhancement Pilot Project,” says Councillor Ann Hartley.

“It’s fantastic to see our officers working closely with residents to achieve such a meaningful outcome for our environment and community. Projects like this bring people together and facilitate stronger community bonds and grow pride in the hearts of those who call this area home.”

“I’d like to congratulate everyone who has worked on this project and wish you success for the future of these works,” says Ms Hartley.

Streams are an important part of North Shore’s ecosystem and they play a vital role in rain water management. They act like kidneys, filtering out contaminants in the water before it reaches our beaches.

Naturalised streams not only improve water quality, but also help reduce flooding and provide a healthy environment for wildlife to live.

Council is partnering with the Bayside community in Browns Bay to enhance a section of the Taiaotea Creek before moving on to Birkenhead’s Little Shoal Bay stream next year.

For more information on Council’s Stream Restoration Pilot Projects, visit www.northshorecity.govt.nz and enter ‘stream restoration’ in the search engine or visit www.naturallysmarter.co.nz.

ENDS

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