Management considerations in relation to Stoddart's Point Recreation Reserve

Abstract

This Dissertation is being prepared because there is a need for planning in respect to the use of the resource. The lack of planning up until the present time has resulted in the loss of many amenity trees with the consequent disruption to shelter. A looming consideration will be the need for replacement planting of Pinus Radiata shelter belts on the reserve. The longer it is left, the more susceptible to wind damage and disease attack they will invariably become. At least 70% of the trees are in excess of forty years old, many are very frail looking and because they have not been managed, have an unkempt appearance about them. Their shelter and amenity value is minimal because of their location and condition of the trees.

Economically, many of the Pines and Macrocarpas are of little value. To make it worthwhile for a contractor to log the trees, they would all have to be offered for tender. But even on todays market, and because of the small quantity of millable timber, plus access difficulties, a marginal return could be the most a logging contractor may expect from logging the trees and then hopefully finding a sawmill to buy the logs. The age and condition of the trees affects the utility of the wood.

According to the Forest Service and on the advice of several sawmill owners, the utility of the wood is at best suitable for boxing and engineering purposes. The older trees would be good for firewood only.

Even to leave the trees has its consequences as well, and it would seem the best alternative is gradual replacement planting of the area.

Finally, the emphasis of this Dissertation is on managing the reserve within its capabilities, on improving the visual and physical condition of specific areas of the reserve, and to realise above all, that management of the reserve is constrained by financial material and manpower limitations.