It’s almost summer and we all love the lakes we have around the Taupo electorate. We love them even more when they’re cleared of potentially dangerous weed such as Hornwort. Check out this story about the removal of Hornwort in Lake Karapiro recently. Hornwort taken from Karapiro Steps are being taken to remove aquatic hornwort – NewZealand’s worst submerged freshwater weed – from Lake Karapiro. Land Information Minister and Taupo MP Louise Upston has welcomed the removal of aquatic hornwort from Lake Karapiro, saying it will enhance the health of this nationally significant lake. She said the project will ensure the public can fully enjoy the lake, especially with a number of notable events this summer. ‘‘Lake Karapiro – near my home – is one of our most well-known lakes and is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.’’ The Waikato Regional Council and Waipa District Council jointly funded work at Lake Karapiro and Horahora domains. The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) gave scientific field support, while Land Information New Zealand (Linz) provided biosecurity expertise and led the project. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) is currently New Zealand’s worst submerged freshwater weed. It is believed to have been introduced for use in aquariums and ornamental ponds in the early 1960s, but the invasive weed is now widely-established in waterways throughout the North Island. The work was done in early November, and Linz is considering options for a longer-term programme to reduce hornwort over time. ‘‘This is a great example of local and central government working together, with scientific support, and builds on Linz’s continuing work to control aquatic weed in some nationally significant lakes throughout the country. ‘‘I’m pleased this work has been done. Thousands of athletes will be coming to New Zealand for the World Masters Games in 2017, and Lake Karapiro will be better prepared to be showcased to the world,’’ Upston said. bit.ly/1tbqY2L
Posted on: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 20:00:01 +0000
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