Restoration Objective:
A community-led initiative is working to reduce sea urchin numbers through harvesting in a 1ha restoration site to promote conditions for the regrowth of Ecklonia radiata and other carpophyllum seaweeds.
Site Selection Criteria:
This site was selected due to the high density of sea urchins and barren patches, and the accessiblity for the community to engage in volunteer removal activities.
Cause Of Decline:
While overfishing within the Hauraki Gulf (both commercial and recreational) is a major factor in the overpopulation of sea urchins at this site, there are other stressors which are less clearly described but may include sedimentation, heat waves / climate change and other water quality issues.
Key Reasons For Decline:
Predator Loss
Overgrazing
Organisation:
Te Kohuroa Rewilding is a community-led initiative working to create positive outcomes for our local coastal marine ecosystem (and freshwater catchment) through collective collaboration with iwi, organisations and community.
We are building a ground up ‘Mountains to Sea’ approach to healing Te Kohuroa’s marine environment and kelp forests in our local bay by creating opportunities for residents and visitors to participate in long term conservation action. Our project design is based on an inclusive restoration model that brings kaitiakitanga and guardianship to the forefront of our conservation approach.
