19 January 2018

Media: Rotorua Daily Post

Topic: Damaged floating wetland

Enquiry

Reporter sought information following a call from a concerned Lake Rotorua user who said large chunks of "brown foam" were breaking off the 'floating weed mat' near Sulphur Point and washing up on the shore, endangering the wildlife.

- How regularly is the mat inspected?

- Have there been any other reports of damage?

- If the 'brown foam' isn't coming from the weed mat, what could it be?

- Will council investigate the issue?

- Can I please also just get some background on the weed mat?

Response

The following information was provided:

The floating wetland in Lake Rotorua was damaged by the recent storm. Post-storm checks found two sections had broken away from the main structure and small pieces which look like foam or pieces of sponge, have broken off those. A team from the company which is responsible for structural maintenance of the wetland is undertaking the clean-up now.

As the wetland is permanently located in the lake and therefore accessible to wildlife, environmentally-friendly material was used in its construction.

There is work planned next month which will further strengthen the wetland and provide added protection from damage during adverse weather.

If you see storm debris please contact Council to arrange for it to be removed/cleaned up - phone 07 348 4199 any time.

General:

• The wetland was constructed in 2012 as an environmental enhancement initiative to help improve water quality in Lake Rotorua.
• More than 20,000 hand-sewn native plants grown from Rotorua-sourced seeds were used in its construction.
• The project was a partnership between Rotorua Lakes Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Te Arawa Lakes Trust (the 3 Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme partners).
• The wetland is about the same size as a rugby field and has a life expectancy of about 20 years.
• It is one of a number of floating wetlands on Rotorua lakes (others are managed by the regional council).
• Once established floating wetlands help reduce nitrogen and phosphorus in lakes. They also provide additional benefits such as a nursery for koura, nesting options for birds, enhanced fisheries and wave dampening.