An aggressive aquatic weed found in a Papamoa stream is on its way to being contained and eradicated.
The Ministry for Primary Industries was working with the Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council to help rid an infestation of Salvinia molesta (salvinia) in the Wairakei Stream.
Salvinia was known worldwide for its fast spread and significant impacts on lakes and waterways.
It formed dense mats on the water surface and had the potential to destroy the habitat of native plants and animals, including native aquatic bird life.
It attracts breeding mosquitoes, removes oxygen from the water, affects recreational activities and creates a drowning risk for people and animals.
