Exploring Wetlands with Dr Rebecca Eivers
This month, The Forest Bridge Trust’s Helen Jamieson had the opportunity to join Mountains to Sea for a wetlands workshop in Matakana, led by Dr Rebecca Eivers from Wai Kōkopo Consulting.
Dr Eivers is a leading expert in constructed wetlands and wetland restoration, and she shared her extensive scientific and practical knowledge with a group of local landowners eager to learn more about how wetlands can benefit both farming and nature.
Throughout the day, Rebecca explained how wetlands, whether natural or constructed, can play a crucial role in improving water quality by reducing sediment and chemical runoff from all types of land use, including intensive dairy farms. She emphasised that these benefits can be achieved without significant loss of productive land or large financial costs.
Wetlands also provide essential habitat for endangered species, help reduce regional flooding, and store carbon, making them one of nature’s most effective tools for restoring ecological balance.
A review of historical maps highlighted just how many wetlands once existed across the Matakana region, and the extent of their loss over the past century. The group then visited three sites to explore existing wetland restoration projects and hear from landowners who are already taking steps to bring wetlands back to life on their properties.
Dr Eivers’ ability to translate complex science into clear, relevant insights resonated deeply with everyone present. Many left the workshop inspired and motivated to start their own wetland restoration journeys.
As Rebecca reminded participants, the key to reversing the damage to our landscapes and biodiversity lies in many landowners each doing a little bit. Together, these efforts add up to a healthier, more resilient environment for all.
Ngā mihi nui to Mountains to Sea and Dr Rebecca Eivers for sharing their expertise and passion for wetlands with our community.
For those wanting to learn more about wetland restoration in Rodney, support and advice are available:
- On the east coast, contact Friends of Awa Matakana (FOAM)
- For the rest of Rodney, reach out to our Fencing and Planting team at hamish@theforestbridgetrust.org.nz.