In mid February, native forest enthusiasts in both Bay of Plenty and Waikato learnt about Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) from Dr Adam Forbes.
Dr Forbes is a senior ecologist with extensive professional experience in applied ecology, natural resource management and ecological research. Most recently he published a paper on how to use mature pine plantations while transitioning to native forest. Now, he travels New Zealand, sharing his knowledge with passionate and professional conservationists.
Two-day workshops were hosted in both Te Puna, BOP and Te Aroha, Waikato, hosted by Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust, delivered to forestry professionals, iwi and council representatives.
“It was great to have the Kaimai ranges as a backdrop for this course. Over two days the group developed their skills and confidence in assessing regeneration potential and how nature-led restoration strategies can support the Kaimai,” says Dr Adam Forbes.
Day one of the workshops was a full day of classroom learning. The groups learnt about ANR principles, forest succession, seed sources, exotic species roles, threats management, resilience assessment, planting strategies and monitoring techniques.
Day two was spent on the mountain putting knowledge into action. The groups visited three different sites assessing regeneration potential, barriers and management options.
“It was great to learn about the impressive work of Ngāti Tumutumu and Ngāti Hinerangi, who have been leading pest‑plant eradication and pest animal control efforts across the Waikato. Their mahi is already making a noticeable impact,” says one council attendee.
On Friday, two free community sessions were held in the same classrooms, featuring talks with Dr Adam Forbes and Jacqui Aimers from Tanē’s Tree Trust.
“It was the most amazing week visiting the Kaimai Range, seeing its forest ecosystem and engaging with a large number of people so enthusiastic about regenerating forests,” says Dr Forbes.
If you are interested in forest regeneration, Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust is looking to run more sessions in the future. Sign up to our mailing list to stay up to date.
Waikato akonga, students, at the Assisted Natural Regeneration workshop.
