LINZ announces next phase of Lagarosiphon control for Lake Wanaka

1 March 2006

Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) will begin the next phase of the 10-Year Lagarosiphon Management Plan tomorrow (February 28).

The plan was approved by the Lake Wanaka Management Group in August 2005. The Management Group is made up of LINZ, Otago Regional Council, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Department of Conservation and the Guardians of Lake Wanaka.

The plan aims to stop the spread of the lake weed lagarosiphon in Lake Wanaka and prevent it being transferred to other lakes.

Paul Jackson, Manager Crown Property at LINZ, says the next phase will be carried out by a new contractor, Aquateq, and will involve suction dredging using a purpose-built system.

"Suction dredging is the most effective method of clearing lagarosiphon in the areas targeted at this stage," Mr Jackson says.

The programme is scheduled to begin at Mou Waho Island and continue to Mou Tapu Island, West Wanaka Bay, the western shoreline of the peninsula and the northern side of Roys Peninsula.

Suction dredging is dependent on weather and lake conditions. If the work is not possible on February 28, it will take place on subsequent days.

The programme is due to finish mid-year. Mr Jackson says a good result is expected, and the success of lagarosiphon removal will be monitored.

For more information, contact:

Keiran Bleach
Senior Communications Advisor
Land Information New Zealand
04 496 5402
027 222 9566

Paul Jackson
Manager Crown Property Management
Land Information New Zealand
04 4600 158
027 2491 258