March 19, 2007

MEDIA STATEMENT

Rabbit control field day at Otekaieke March 28

Controlling rabbits in the face of increased immunity levels is the theme of a field day to be held in the Waitaki Valley later this month.

The field day will be based at Otekaieke Hall on Wednesday, March 28, from 1-5pm.

Environment Canterbury Waitaki constituency councillor June Slee said the field day is in response to requests from the community as it becomes apparent that that the RHD virus is losing its effectiveness at keeping rabbit numbers down.

Environment Canterbury’s biosecurity manager, Graham Sullivan said the field day will cover rabbit control techniques, costs and requirements. It will also address problems associated with smallholdings.

Kurow pest management liaison committee chairman Peter Reid said he encourages people to support the field day, particularly newcomers to the district and those with smaller blocks who may not be familiar with the control requirements.

“Anyone with a concern about pest control is welcome to call me or other members of the committee,” he said.

Pest management liaison committees across the region advise Environment Canterbury about work programmes in their districts. They also pass on Environment Canterbury's information about pest management to local communities.

ENDS

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