Hunters, anglers and members of the public are invited to a planting day at Bendigo Wildlife Management Reserve this Saturday (August 19). 

The event, during Conservation Week, is part of an Otago Fish & Game (OFG) restoration project at the 158 hectare reserve, located where the Clutha River (Mata-Au) enters Lake Dunstan. 

Cromwell-based OFG officer Ben Sowry said they were looking forward to seeing local community members, including hunters and anglers at the event.

“The planting programme will beautify this area for the general public and improve breeding habitat for wildlife, including game bird waterfowl and other native species. 

“This work will also enhance harvest and recreational opportunities for game bird hunters and anglers who’ve enjoyed the area for generations.” 

Ben said volunteers are welcome anytime between 10am and 3pm on the planting day. The planting area is at the lake edge near the end of Gilmore Road, 15 km north of Cromwell on State Highway 6.  

Volunteers are asked to bring sturdy footwear, gardening gloves and spades. Food and refreshments will be provided. 

The project has already planted 1,000 natives and between 200 and 400 more will be planted on Saturday.

Plants include species once common in the area including flax, cabbage tree, carex secta, ribbonwood, kowhai, kanuka, manuka and twiggy tree daisy. 

The latest supply of plants is through a $5,000 grant from the Otago Regional Council Eco Fund supporting community-led projects. 

Another $6000 of restoration work at the reserve has been funded by the OFG Habitat Enhancement Fund using proceeds from diversion payments for offences.  

The construction of Clyde Dam, forming Lake Dunstan in 1993, covered large areas of river habitat that was used by game birds, native birds, and other species such as lizards and invertebrates. 

For information contact Ben by email: [email protected] 

PHOTO: Otago Fish & Game