COW CRESS
Cow cress, also known as water celery, is an invasive species which is similar to watercress but with a larger leaf and an unpleasant bitter taste. It is identified as a pervasive threat across the catchment, encroaching upon tributaries and streams. Farmers are concerned about its adverse effects on stream health and the heightened risk of flooding and damage due to the bulk of the weed.​
Kahahakuri Cow Cress Mitigations
Report prepared for TLC
TLC and Access to Experts (A2E) engaged the Massey University Environmental Sciences Panel following concern by landowners and farmers in the Kahahakuri catchment around the rapid spread of cow cress in the catchment. The report below was prepared by A/Prof. Ranvir Singh (Environmental Hydrology & Soil Science) and Prof. Ian Fuller (Physical Geography) at the School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University for Tukituki Land Care and includes potential mitigations for managing the spread of cow cress and stream bank erosion in streams and drains in the Kahahakuri catchment.
Cow Cress in Nelson
Presentation by Richard Frizzell, Nelson City Council
Richard Frizzell from Nelson City Council was invited to attend a TLC meeting in the Kahahakuri catchment to discuss a successful trial by Nelson City Council to control cow cress in a local stream using an approved herbicide. Following the success of this trial, a more extensive control of this pest plant is now being carried out.