Oak tree planting programme

Oak tree planting programme

The impetus for the planting programme came through the effects of the 1985 Ngatapa flood, Cyclone Bola in 1988 and an out-of-control gorse fire in 1991.  From Kees’ forestry experience he knew that the area was in need of replanting to combat the long-term effects of erosion.

The first tree plantings were on the steeper areas of the farm 20 years ago, in 1991. These were closed canopy plantings of Cupressus lusitanica, Pinus radiata and Acacia melanoxylon.

The trees are actively used on the farm. The thinnings provide the farm’s fencing and straining requirements and the staircase connecting the lodge with the car park were make from their trees. The farm yards and eel-feeding jetty were also made from Knapdale trees.