Major plantings set for stream clean up project

A project to clear the Mangapiko Stream between Pirongia and Te Awamutu, that began in 2006, will continue with two major plantings over winter.

The vision of the Lower Mangapiko Streamcare group was to improve water quality, bird life and stream life, while reducing the flooding on farms.

So far 31km of the stream has been cleared, banks stabilised, fencing completed and thousands of native plants have been planted.

As part of the project the banks behind the College rugby field have been completed, Montefiore Reserve has been planted and a walking track through the two areas has been developed for the community to use.

Two large plantings will be carried over the next few months.

The first on May 22, supported by the Honda Tree Trust, welcomes members of the public.

Anyone interested in taking part needs to meet at the College Pavilion at 9am.

Spokesperson Betsy Bryant says the whole project has been well supported by Waikato River Authority, Waikato Regional Council, Waipa District Council, Grassroots Trust, RD1, Southern Trust, Ecolynx and Waikato Catchment Ecological Enhancement Trust.

"Of course there has also been great co-operation from owners and businesses who have properties beside the stream, as well as local schools and volunteers.

"We are very grateful to the many supporters of the streamcare project and acknowledge it would not be possible to do this work without them."