The combined efforts of students, teachers and some community volunteers is turning what was a pest-infested block of land, across the river from Mahurangi College, into a living classroom to be proud of. According to teacher Catherine Hutton, the project gives students the opportunity to get their hands dirty and feel a sense of accomplishment. Hutton, Phil Last, Sam Rivett and Colin Binsted make up the living classroom leadership team.
Since 2020, around 3000 trees have been planted and 471 pests have been trapped, mainly possums, rats and mice, but also hedgehogs, stoats and weasels. Hutton says that by actively participating in the guardianship of the land, students are building belonging and connection to one another and the land. “The students learn about the environment and service,” she says.
“Over the last three years, we’ve also had a significant wetland planting project with support from local companies such as Terra Pura. “We have a large planting project planned next year and look forward to inviting families to be involved.” Last, who is in charge of the trapping group, says there are three parts to the living classroom – pest plant removal, replanting native species and trapping animal pests, so birds can do their job.
He said that the trapping group uses DOC200 traps for rats and Trapinator traps for possum. Trapinator possum traps work when possums reach up and grab bait. The trap then cuts the throat and neck, killing it instantly.
All kills ar.