Media release

23 August 2016

Join the War on Weeds this Conservation Week

New Zealanders are being urged to help fight the War on Weeds by getting out and recording where the Dirty Dozen weeds are in their neighbourhood or local reserve.

In the lead up to Conservation Week, the Department of Conservation is launching a nationwide citizen science project through NatureWatch, says Alicia Warren, War on Weeds Project Manager.

The theme of this year’s Conservation Week (September 10-18) is Healthy Nature Healthy People, and encouraging people to think about how they could join the team to make a difference to their local natural environment.

“The Dirty Dozen weeds are widespread and common weeds that are threatening to smother native plant communities,” Alicia Warren says. “Without control, invasive weeds displace our native plants and animals.”

“Your weed observations will contribute to the national database by revealing which of these common weeds are growing where, helping scientists to better understand patterns of invasion and how uncontrolled weeds are destroying our native landscapes,” Warren says.

To join the War on Weeds, go to DOC’s website and learn more about the Dirty Dozen weeds, then record sightings of these weeds using your smartphone.

“It’s easy to take a photo of the weed and add it as an observation to the NatureWatch website or the iNaturalist app.”

The Department of Conservation is running a competition through to the end of Conservation Week where people can win spot prizes through their observations.

“This is a simple way that people can join the team and get involved in helping with conservation efforts while they are out exploring nature,” says Warren. “Studies show that spending time in the outdoors brings benefits to people’s health and wellbeing, and this call to action for the War on Weeds means that conservation will benefit as well.”

Join the War on Weeds go to www.doc.govt.nz/dirty-dozen-competition

For Conservation Week activities go to www.doc.govt.nz/conservationweek

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