PRESS RELEASE - West Aucklanders Against Aerial Spraying (WASP)

Congratulations in Order for Self Funded PAM Pheromone Scientist

West Aucklanders Against Aerial Spraying would like to congratulate west Auckland scientist Dr John Clearwater whose entirely self funded efforts have finally resulted in the discovery of the Painted Apple Moth pheromone.

His discovery of the Tussock Moth pheromone was instrumental in getting the aerial spraying stopped over east Auckland six years ago.

After being refused government funding John Clearwater has worked out of his own pocket, in conjunction with an international team of scientists, to isolate all the components of the PAM pheromone.

He says the pheromone is 10 times more attractive to the male Painted Apple Moth than a live female and should prove extremely effective.

The Waitakere City Council has given him the go ahead to conduct field trials of his pheromone but he now needs permission from Ian Gear of MAF. Contrary to recent media reports, this has not yet been forthcoming. Without permission from MAF to start field trials, use of the pheromone will be delayed.

Auckland residents are hoping it will not come too late to stop the next two blanket aerial sprays scheduled for September over large parts of Auckland, Waitakere and North Shore cities.

Helen Wiseman-Dare Chairperson, WASP (West Aucklanders Against Aerial Spraying) Ph: 827 2516, Email: wasp@xtra.co.nz

ENDS

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