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Lake Karapiro weed control
21 May 2007
The first of two planned lakeweed control operations on Lake Karapiro this year will get under way on 21 May, Land Information New Zealand said today.
Several locations between Little Waipa Domain and Lake Karapiro Domain are being targeted by the operation, which aims to control the invasive aquatic weed hornwort, Paul Jackson, Manager Crown Property said.
At this stage it is hoped that one or two days will be required to complete the work, which involves application of the herbicide diquat in gel form by helicopter. A safe organic dye will also be used to ensure accurate placement of the herbicide.
If weather and water conditions aren't suitable the work will take place on the next suitable weekday.
"For the safety of the public and contractors undertaking the work, we ask that the public don't use the treatment areas while the herbicide is being applied," Mr Jackson said.
Diquat breaks down rapidly in water, but as a precautionary measure only, users are also asked not to take drinking or irrigation water from the vicinity of the treatment sites until 24 hours after treatment.
Warning signs have been placed at authorised public boat ramp sites and will be taken down 24 hours after treatment.
This work is being carried out in conjunction with Waipa District Council and Environment Waikato. The second control operation is programmed for September.
Note: Environment Waikato issued a resource consent for the work earlier this year after widespread consultation which included Waipa District Council, Waikato District Health Board, iwi, Rowing New Zealand and other local organisations.
Associated information:
For further information:
Dave Chowdhury
Senior Communications Advisor
DDI: 04 496 5402
Mobile: 027 222 9566
Email: dchowdhury@linz.govt.nz
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