The next phase of the restoration on Grovers Hill near Roxburgh will begin in the coming fortnight in preparation for replanting.

The crew will begin by windrowing - stacking leftover slash into long narrow rows from the pine forest that had to be felled after wind damage in 2021.

In November last year, the Teviot Valley Community Board approved replanting of the site with Pinus attenuata, a hybrid pine tree with low spread potential. 

In addition, about one hectare will be planted with a mix of native trees to soften the effect of the pine forest.

The 12-hectare reserve (part of the Roxburgh Recreation Reserve) was planted in Pinus radiata in 1984 under a Forestry Encouragement Agreement for future income purposes. 

The Central Otago District Council has three years to replant this site as it is registered for carbon credits. 

If replanting doesn’t happen within that period the council will be liable to repay these credits to the government.

Following the windrowing, plant and animal pest control will be undertaken before planting, at this stage planned for early winter.

After the planting, the community and council will work together to reinstate the walking tracks. 

There are also plans to create a mountain bike track within the area.