Possum Busters Wanted

Disappearing roses and damaged native trees in Stokes Valley aren’t the work of ghosts, they’re the work of possums, and Leisure Services Division of Hutt City Council would like to invite residents to become “Possum Busters”.

Fredrick Allen, Chairman of the Northern Ward Committee displaying the Timms possum trap

The Possum Buster programme is aimed at residents who wish to help in the control of possums in the surrounding native bush and their own back gardens. Council assists residents by offering free advice, offering Timms Traps for hire (which are a humane method of controlling possums), and arranging a collection service for possum carcasses. At least 50 families or individuals are required in order to significantly reduce possum numbers in Stokes Valley.

"One of our city’s most valuable assets is our natural native bush surroundings. However, if we are to retain our bush surroundings in a natural and healthy state, we need to get rid of the possums," said Beckee Hobbs from Leisure Services Division

Two means of control will be used in Stokes Valley:

Residential Possum Busters; and

Contracting a commercial possum operator to eradicate possums in the deep bush around Stokes Valley.

"Controlling possums also helps protect and enhance the native bird population survive," said Beckee Hobbs.

If your property backs onto native bush reserve and you wish to become a member of Possum Busters or would like to know more about the programme. A meeting will be held in the TUI GLEN SCHOOL HALL on Tuesday 3rd December 2002 starting at 7.30pm and finishing by 9pm. A Bio Security Officer from Wellington Regional Council will be on hand to answer any questions.

A light supper will be provided. For catering purposes please contact Beckee Hobbs on 570-6702 by Monday 2nd December if you are expecting to attend. Possum traps will be available for a $30.00 (refundable) deposit.

A volunteer runs the collection service for the Possum Buster group. The volunteer collects the possum carcasses from members, delivers extra Timms Traps and collects returned traps. The volunteer is also the go between for members and Council.

Possum Busters is a Council initiative that has successfully run in Eastbourne, Parkway, Western Hills and the Waiwhetu area. It is open to families and individuals (12 years and over) though residents living near reserve boundaries are especially welcome.