Why are wetlands so important? What can and can’t go down stormwater drains? Which bird species are living here?

ORC’s Central Catchment Advisor Brooke Clark says while the Albert Town Lagoon is a wetland, it’s changing because there is now more water going into it.

“So older plants are now dying and needing to be replaced with more wetland-appropriate natives – returning the ecosystem to native species and plants.”

“Local residents, especially those who live in nearby houses need to know how they are part of this wetland, such as how does their stormwater link to the lagoon? Some time ago, stormwater was redirected to new ponds which go into the lagoon. These man-made ponds were created to mitigate the impact of urban subdivision in the area surrounding the lagoon.”

The lagoon is “crucial” to the health of the river, the Clutha- Mata Au at Albert Town, and vital as a function of effective drainage, she says.

“The settling ponds or stormwater ponds work better when the lagoon is also functioning at its best with water flowing in and out. The purpose of the open day is to highlight how this lagoon and the two ponds function, and how people’s activities are linked to this.”

QLDC plans to begin restoring the area over the next two years involving planting and maintenance work. Ms Clark is helping to co-ordinate different parts of this project, including plans for a community planting day in the future.

Clark will give a talk at the open day about why the wetland is important and how the people are connected to it. There will also be other talks and activities provided by Te Kākano, QLDC, Albert Town Community Association, WAI Wānaka, Wanaka Backyard Trapping and local harakeke weaving group. 

Details

Albert Town Lagoon Open Day

• Saturday 29 April 2023
• 9am to 11am
• Albert Town Lagoon, Alison Ave entrance
• Educational talk on wetlands & activities provided by Te Kakano, ORC, QLDC, Albert Town Community Association, WAI Wānaka, Wanaka Backyard Trapping and local harakeke weaving group
• Media welcome