Information
At Friends Of Rosecamp Foreshore Reserve, we are dedicated to restoring and protecting our precious native trees and species. Understanding the potential hazards to this restoration is crucial for our success. Explore the challenges we face and our commitment to overcoming them.
Frequently asked questions about hazards
Our commitment to restoring the Rosecamp Foreshore Reserve to its native glory means we must be vigilant against all threats. Learn about the main hazards impacting our reserve and the dedicated efforts to safeguard its future.
What are the main things that could harm or damage the native trees and plants at Rosecamp Foreshore Reserve, or the restoration efforts in general?
A full description of the hazards within the reserve will be published shortly. Also we will make mention of the Herbicides that are being currently used to eradicate the weeds.
Could you tell us a bit more about why these particular hazards are a concern for the reserve and foreshore?
The Rosecamp Foreshore Reserve is a delicate ecosystem. Unchecked invasive weeds, for example, compete with native plants for vital resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients, hindering their growth and establishment. Pests and diseases can devastate native species, while human activities like littering and unauthorised access can directly damage plants and disrupt wildlife. Even well-intentioned actions, if not properly managed, can have unintended negative consequences on the restoration efforts. Our primary concern is to ensure the long-term health and resilience of our native flora and fauna.
What actions are currently being taken, or are planned, to manage or reduce these hazards?
We are actively implementing a comprehensive hazard management plan. This includes ongoing weed eradication programmes, carefully using approved herbicides when necessary and focusing on manual removal for sensitive areas. We also monitor for pests and diseases, working with local experts to address any outbreaks promptly. Education and signage help to inform visitors about responsible behaviour within the reserve. Furthermore, we are developing long-term strategies for sustainable biodiversity, including planting resilient native species and encouraging natural regeneration. We regularly review our methods and adapt our approach based on the latest ecological research and site-specific needs.
Here are things to watch for with Working Bees in Rosecamp Foreshore Reserve
Critical Hazards Sheet
Hazard
Controls Using Herbicide
- Food and drink not to be consumed in areas where herbicide is used or handled.
- Wash hands well before consuming any food or drink.
- No children to use herbicide.
Carrying and using Tools
- Carry ‘underarm’ or pointing down.
- Always cut away from the body and keep at least 2m distance between yourself and other workers.
- Sharp-edged instruments should be sheathed when not in use.
Allergic reactions / medical emergencies/Suitable Clothing & Footwear
- If you have any health concerns or allergies, please make someone from our coordinating committee aware of these.
-Uneven and/or wet ground (resulting in Slips/Trips/Falls strains, sprains, fractures, and/or broken bones)
- Wear suitable footwear for the environment.
- Ensure that all participants are appropriately dressed, e.g. long sleeves and trousers, sturdy footwear, thick socks
- Use safe lifting techniques or more than one person to move.
- Only work within in areas or conditions that is safe to do so for your abilities.
Work in groups.
- Working in groups where we can keep an eye on the safety of each other.
- All children must be actively supervised by a suitable number of parents or care-givers.
Contact with biological hazards or hazardous rubbish
- Isolate area where item is found.
- Alert one of the coordinating team.
- Contact Council if necessary to collect and/or dispose of.
Bites and stings – spider, insect stings, allergic reactions
- Carry personal antihistamines and use insect repellent if required
- Periodically inspect the work site to identify wasp nests.
- Alert others if a wasp nest is found and minimize disturbance to the nest
- In a reserve, log a Report a Problem so the council can control it.
Eye Hazards from flying debris or sharp plants causing eye injuries.
- Be mindful of your eyes when doing particularly weed removal or working around low shrubs etc.
- If injury occurs, seek medical attention immediately and notify Council Representative when appropriate.
Manual Handling (resulting in strains or sprains)
- Use safe lifting techniques or more than one person to move.
- Use appropriate tools for the job.
- Keep work areas/walking paths clear.
- Ensure you are fit to move the item(s)
Sun Radiation/Glare (causing sunburn or eye damage)
- Cover up with long sleeves and hat.
- Use sun block of suitable rating and apply regularly.
- Wear sunglasses.
Injury from falling branches or tree material
- This is something to always be aware of when working in the reserve.
- Our coordinating groups always considers this when looking at the work plan and don’t work in areas where there is considered significant risk from falling branches.
- Use judgement and be aware of your surroundings. If you have concerns, alert a member of the coordinating committee.
Key information to share at every safety briefing
- In the event of an emergency, this is our emergency meeting point.
- We carry a FA kit with us for every event. Please let us know if any incident occurs, no matter how minor, as we need to submit an incident report to help keep volunteers as safe as possible when volunteering.
- If anyone has any health concerns or allergies please let Nigel or a member of the coordinating committee know.
- Please make sure you have read the full volunteer safety plan at least once, this shortened list below is designed to draw your attention to the hazards you are most likely to come across, but not all of them.
Protecting our future
Our journey to restore Rosecamp Reserve and Foreshore is a shared one. Your understanding and support are vital as we navigate the challenges and work towards a thriving native ecosystem. Join us in safeguarding this precious New Zealand treasure.
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