Alexandra-Clyde River Track users need to plan their exercise for Friday to Monday, as the track will be closed mid-week for tree safety work from June 6.  

The work is happening on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for the next three to four weeks, depending on conditions.

There will be no access to parts of the track when the tree work is taking place. Tree felling signage and danger tape will be in place. 

Central Otago District Council (CODC) parks and recreation manager Gordon Bailey said keeping the trees safe and tidy was a continual process.

“Almost all the trees along this popular river route are old, un-maintained crack willows. As their name suggests, these trees can crack and fail during high winds.

“Since the opening of the Lake Dunstan Trail two years ago, the river track has become even more popular, so safety of users is paramount.”

Where work will start for the first week (June 6-8)

Gordon said there is no intention to clear the trees, but to selectively remove or prune large limbs, or trees that lean over the track creating a potential hazard.

He said CODC is looking to partner with community groups to plant natives to increase the plant biodiversity along this popular track in the coming years.

Where work will take place during weeks two and three

As machinery access is limited to parts of the track large logs will be moved away as far away as possible, and smaller branches chipped on site.

 Any track surfaces disturbed by the tree removal will be repaired.

The Central Otago Rail Trail is an alternative walking and cycling route between Alexandra and Clyde for closed days.

CODC is asking people to be patient and pay attention to signage for everyone’s safety.