Vector Free Marlborough Limited

14 August 2020

To Whom It May Concern,
 
Vector Free Marlborough Limited (VFML) wishes to advise landowners and other interested parties that it will be commencing aerial application of the toxin Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) to the Aorere portion of the Kahurangi predator control project area from dawn on 16/08/2020.
 
The aerial application of toxin is expected to take up to two days to complete subject to weather.  Should weather conditions prove unsuitable, work will begin on the first fine day thereafter.  Further notification will be provided in the event of an extended delay occurring.
 
All walking tracks in the control area will have toxin aerially applied to them.  Affected facilities include the Heaphy Track and Shakespeare Flat Track.  Access to these sites will be restricted while the operation is carried out and afterwards until facilities have been inspected and cleared of most 1080 baits.  Closures will be in place from late afternoon on 15/08/2020 and will be identified using signage and barrier tape.  People intending to enter the control area during this period are encouraged to contact VFML or Department of Conservation offices for up-to-date advice.  
 
The public are reminded that warning signs indicate that pesticide residues may be present in baits or animals.  Game animals should not be sold or taken for eating from within or adjacent to the control area until it is declared clear of pesticides.  When signs are removed, this means you can resume normal activities in the area.  Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs to VFML or the nearest Department of Conservation office.
 
The Aorere operation is being carried out on behalf of the Department of Conservation as part of its Tiakina Ngā Manu programme to control a range of introduced predators threatening vulnerable native species.  These species include whio, rock wren, kea, kaka, great spotted kiwi, Powelliphanta snails and long-tailed bats.  Additional information and maps of the project area may be obtained from the DOC and VFML websites or by contacting VFML per the details below.
 
Operation Controller - Aorere
Vector Free Marlborough Limited
PO Box 5171, Springlands, Blenheim 7241
Free phone:  0508 548 008
Email:  communications@vectorfree.co.nz
Web:  http://www.vectorfree.co.nz/current-aerial-operations.html
 
Vector Free Marlborough Limited (VFML) is proud to work alongside the Department of Conservation to deliver the 2019/20 Kahurangi project.  To learn more about our work please visit the VFML website.
 
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