Sparking Interest in Predator Control at Warkworth’s Kōwhai Festival
Sometimes the best way to inspire people to get involved in conservation is simply to give them the opportunity to see, touch and learn a little more about what's happening in their own backyard.
That was certainly the experience for Pest Free Mahurangi East (PFME) at Warkworth's recent Kōwhai Festival, where a day of community celebration turned into a fantastic opportunity to connect with people interested in protecting our local environment.
The annual Kōwhai Festival brings together the best of the local community, with the Mahurangi River waterfront and Kapanui Street providing a lively setting for local stalls, food, entertainment and live music. With a great mix of activities and people out enjoying the day, it was an ideal opportunity to introduce more people to the work of community conservation groups.
Curiosity leads to connection
Karen Ward, Community Trapping and Volunteer Coordinator for PFME, spent the full 10-hour day at the festival, alongside Warkworths Forrest & Bird, and the response was well worth the effort.
She was blown away by the level of interest, with 23 individuals expressing an interest in getting involved in trapping. Visitors came from across Warkworth and the Mahurangi Peninsula, and Karen was able to connect people with Forest & Bird and other local trapping groups where appropriate.
For many, it was about knowing where to start, who to contact and how they could contribute to predator control in their own neighbourhoods.
The display attracted a wonderful mix of adults and children, with plenty of hands-on learning along the way. Kids particularly enjoyed exploring tracking tunnels, identifying animal footprints and guessing which predators had left them behind.
There was also considerable interest in the AT220 automatic traps, which were on display and provided an opportunity for visitors to learn more about how they work and the role they play in protecting native wildlife.
Taxidermy displays of possums and stoats provided another talking point, helping visitors get a closer look at some of the introduced predators that community trapping efforts are working to control.
A small conversation can make a big difference
Events like the Kōwhai Festival provide an important opportunity to take conservation beyond the people already involved and introduce it to a much wider audience.
Every new enquiry, conversation or connection has the potential to grow the network of people caring for our local environment. And sometimes, all it takes is a little curiosity to get someone started.
A big thank you to Karen for giving up such a long day to support Forest & Bird and to represent PFME and share her knowledge and enthusiasm. Connecting with 23 individuals interested in trapping is a fantastic result and a reminder of the interest that exists in our communities when people are given the opportunity to get involved.
Together, we're building a more connected community working towards a predator-free Mahurangi.
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