Spartina Inventory: Waitakaruru

The estuarine edge between Miranda and Opani Point, Firth of Thames was surveyed for populations of spartina in 2000. Purpose: To assess the distribution and extent of spartina in the Firth of Thames to plan for its management.

For each infestation site: date surveyed, grid reference, photo (+ bearing), size and extent of infestation, whether herbarium specimen was collected, location map and sketch of site, and a general description of site (channels, access, other vegetation, adjoining land use). 91 individual spartina patches were identified in 19 sites, with a combined coverage of 2.0-2.5ha.

Between Miranda and Opani Point in the Firth of Thames.

NZMS260-T12 Thames, and NZMS260-S12 Maramarua.

May 2000.

Survey of potential spartina habitat via helicopter at low tide. A GPS position was taken at each site, and the extent of the site estimated. For three spartina patches, 2 stakes were placed at either end of the patch so that the expansion of the patch could be measured over time. Frequency of collection: Once only

Spartina potentially missed, extent of infestations estimated only. Since the survey, spartina may have spread to other potential habitat, and infestations increased in size over time. Gaps in collection: N/A Data quality: Not reported Attribute accuracy: Not reported Completeness: All potential spartina habitat between Miranda and Opani Point surveyed.

Inventory hardcopy, with photos. Digital Format: No

Management of Spartina as a weed of harbours/estuaries.

Freely available Sensitivity/Confidentiality: None

One off survey. Spartina should be monitored again following control operation.

Additional comments: A monitoring programme is being prepared to assess the off-site effects of Spartina decomposition and sediment remobilization following spartina control as per Resource consent condition.