Dune planting volunteers needed

Every year at this time the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS) calls out for community volunteers to enjoy the special experience of a day on the estuary sandspit, planting grass seedlings. The grasses provide a locking network for the sand, stabilising the dune landscape which is continually under threat from wind and storm activity.

Over 100,000 grass seedlings have been planted since the MHRS started the initiative, which has included growing the grasses from harvested seeds. The build-up of this planting also provides a level of protection for the eastern coastal beach against the ravages of commercial sand mining. To join with other volunteers for this special experience starting July 19, contact Ken at 027 442 5408.

Pictured is Jerry Pilmer from the MHRS with volunteers planting grass seedlings last year.

PHOTO/FILE