Planting volunteers are needed for a special World Biodiversity Day event at Harris Scientific Reserve on Sunday 25 May.

The reserve is a dryland area with indigenous plants, cared for by the Ashburton Community Conservation Trust with the support of Council.

Group Manager of Infrastructure and Open Spaces Neil McCann said the planting event was a great opportunity to contribute to the local environment and support biodiversity efforts.

“The event gets underway at 9am and all the necessary tools will be supplied, as well as morning tea. It’s suitable for families and children too and we’ll teach you all you need to know.”

The Harris Scientific Reserve is at 409 Lovetts Road, which is off Maronan Road. If you are interested in taking part, please email biodiversity@adc.govt.nz; people can also walk up on the day.

Mr McCann said Council was keen to grow the number of biodiversity volunteers, who made a positive impact by working together with Council.

“We really value our volunteers, who come together regularly to plant and care for native trees, control pests and weeds, and protect threatened species. We have a few planting opportunities coming up and I hope residents will join forces with us because volunteering is a great way to contribute to the environment and help restore its natural beauty.

“We welcome individuals, groups, organisations, churches and businesses interested in doing their bit.”

Council last year adopted the Ashburton District Biodiversity Strategy, called Our Natural Place, and it is a community-led initiative to preserve biodiversity and contribute to a balanced and sustainable environment for the community.

One of the actions in the strategy was to establish a Community Natural Environment Fund, to support local biodiversity and sustainability projects.

Mr McCann said the fund was a way to connect volunteers who wanted to plant but lacked resources, and those who had resources but couldn’t participate due to busy schedules.

“Companies, individuals and communities can donate money to purchase native trees and planting materials, and in return can promote their businesses using the planting as an example of their sustainability initiatives.

“If you want to join our volunteer pool or donate to the community fund, then please get in touch with us.”

To volunteer, or find out more information, please contact Customer Services on 03-307-7700, or email biodiversity@adc.govt.nz.