Willow Management
About the Project
Willow management was selected as a priority focus area in the ICEP (integrated catchment enhancement plan) action plan because of the potential to address a number of relevant issues and work towards a number of aspirations.
Willow removal at different sites will address different issues, for example willows shade the waterway which can be detrimental to natural biodiversity by preventing growth of native plants, willows can also create artificial dams in the river which cause sediment release or downstream damage in high flow, willows remove water directly from the waterway thus reducing water flows or increasing periods of low flow. The removal of willows can increase the amenity at a site and enable better public access. In some cases, willow removal from a particular site may address multiple issues/aspirations, depending on how removal occurs and how the site is restored/managed after removal.
A willow management strategic plan was developed in 2024 and can be found here.
Biodiversity will be improved by removal of willows. In some areas these will replaced by replanting with natives to increase species diversity and improve/provide habitat for native fauna and fish. In addition, amenity areas will be created or enhanced to increase community connection with the waterways. Community members have been growing plants to support replanting efforts and will continue to manage some sites after this project has been completed.
Project Timeframes
Physical works for willow removal commenced in December 2024 and will be complete by June 2025.
A table below identifies the sites and an approximate timeframe for removal works on site, advisory signage will be posted on site before and during works.
Location of Works | Timeframe |
|---|---|
Riverside Park, Alexandra | December 2024 |
Loop Road to Williamsons Creek confluence (St Bathans) | January 2025 |
Below Falls Dam close to Loop Road | January 2025 |
Hills Creek (downstream from SH85) | February 2025 |
Lauder (up and downstream from Rail Trail bridge) | February 2025 |
Spray Fiddlers Flat conservation area | February 2025 |
Above Falls Dam | March 2025 |
Poolburn Gorge | March to May 2025 |
Method of Works
When the work is being carried out you may see willows sprayed and left in place to die over time, you may see heavy machinery operating to cut the trees and physically remove trees above the stumps, you may also see contractors controlling tees with chemicals by drilling holes in willows and filling with poison (known as ‘drill and fill’).
Some willows will be sprayed either by drone or helicopter.
At some sites, close to roads and to the Otago Central Rail Trail members of the public will need to be excluded from the operational area. From time to time for short durations short sections of the Rail Trail may be closed. Closures are to ensure your safety and that of the operators and will be managed by marshals. Marshals will be able to provide real time information at the site.
Concerns or Queries
Should you have any concerns or queries regarding this project, please don't hesitate to contact our project team at waiora@mcg.org.nz
