Regional Services wishes to advise that a ground based possum control operation will be taking place to keep possum numbers under control to prevent spread of TB. This operation will be conducted as a part of the TBfree New Zealand programme.

Areas covered: The property of R Van Turnhout and a small block of forestry owned by City Forest adjacent to Mountain Track Road. The farm boundary runs from the entrance on Mountain Track Road to the south branch of the Waikouaiti River along yellow ridge across Toll Bar Creek then along the next ridge to the Gap. From the Gap the boundary runs north for approximately 2 kilometers before heading in an easterly direction back towards Sluice Box Creek then in a northerly direction where it meets the Waikouaiti River again and back to Mountain Track road at the property entrance.

Operation date: 3rd November 2014 to 31st January 2015

Poisoning methods, poison used and nature of poison: Possum habitats will be targeted using Feratox encapsulated cyanide baits in bait bags, bait stations or strikers and will be attached to trees, and suitable habitat. Feratox capsules (dyed green) will be placed: in peanut paste inside biodegradable blue bait bags or strikers, or in bait stations with peanut paste and/or cereal pre feed.

The public is warned not to enter these areas and not to remove carcasses or baits. Baits are dangerous to people and dogs.

General warning

• Do not touch poison baits/bait stations/traps
• Do not touch poisoned possum carcasses
• Keep pets under supervision; do not let dogs eat poisoned carcasses
• Do not leave children unattended
• Follow the advice on the poison warning signs.
  
  

If you suspect poisoning

Contact your local hospital, or dial 111
National Poisons Centre 0800 POISON – 0800 764766
In the case of a domestic animal being poisoned, contact a local veterinarian

For further information (including maps of the operational area), contact the operator
Kirk Robertson, Regional Services, 027 4986146.