The principles and practices of exotic plant management in conservation areas : Case study : Moturua Island : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma in Parks and Recreation Management, Lincoln College

Abstract

The impetus for compiling this dissertation comes from an interest in developing a strategy for dealing with introduced plants within conservation areas which goes beyond the standard exotic/native dichotomy. While exotic plants within natural areas are normally viewed as inherently undesirable, they often exhibit ecological characteristics which may reduce the need for their immediate removal.

This dissertation is divided into two major parts. The first three sections outline the significance of exotic plants within conservation areas, their ecological impacts, and a review of a number of control methods available. The fourth section involves an examination of problem exotics on Moturua Island in the form of a case study.