KEY POINTS:
A lack of reliable alternatives for possum control means that the controversial pesticide 1080 will remain in use, but with tighter controls.
The use of 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) has been the subject of a review by the Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma).
Erma has been holding hearings around the country over the past six months to take another look at the risks, costs and benefits of the pesticide.
The review was requested by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Animal Health Board, which use it for controlling possums.
Announcing the outcome of the review today, authority chairman Neil Walter acknowledged that use of the poison "deeply divided" New Zealanders.
"On the one hand, pests like possums, rabbits, rats and stoats pose a major threat to New Zealand's environment and economy," he said.
"On the other hand, 1080 is seen by many to pose unacceptable risks, particularly when it comes to aerial drops."
More than 1400 written submissions were received and 150 people made submissions in person.
Erma had the option of changing the controls or conditions on the use of 1080, or withdrawing the approval altogether.
It has decided to allow the poison to continue to be used, but with tighter controls, citing a lack of suitable alternatives for possum control.
"Our decision recognises that for the time being there is no practical alternative to the continued use of 1080 in areas where the preservation of our natural bush and agricultural production would otherwise be at serious risk," Mr Walter said.
The reviewing committee was bound to recognise the "critical importance" of aerially applied 1080 for possum control, but from January 1 next year all aerial operations using the poison will be actively monitored by Erma.
"We are confident that the new management regime will manage any risks to human health or the environment."
In the meantime, Erma called on the government to undertake more research into alternative methods of possum control and into some of the effects of 1080.
Mr Walter said the review was "the largest and most challenging exercise" ever undertaken by Erma but the decisions made by the committee would be reviewed again "at some point in the future".
- NZPA
