In partnership with the Regional Council since 2002, Maraetōtara Tree Trust is progressively removing willows, fencing off covenanted 5-15m riverside margins and planting these with native trees that are predominately grown from seed or cuttings gathered from the river valley by MTT (eco-source plants are substantially preferred).
The Trust founders vision from 2002 remains: to establish a lush corridor the full length of the Maraetōtara River. The project’s aims include to improve the ecosystem and to establish permanent reserved habitats for regenerating native plants, birds and wildlife.
Maraetōtara River previously suffered degradation from livestock pollution, willow tree infestation, and a general lack of care and protection of river margins.
The project continues to this day, successfully led by Maraetōtara Tree Trust volunteers. The propagation of seedlings, planting and ongoing aftercare of trees is funded by charitable donations and grants gained by MTT people. The project is also regularly assisted by voluntary work in the river by various community groups, schools, farmers from the valley and others.
LAWA (Land, Air, Water Aotearoa) data
https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/hawkes-bay-region/river-quality/southern-coastal/maraetotara-river-at-te-awanga/