The Opepe DoC reserve is about 15km east of Taupo on SH5. The trapping program is a joint project with PFT, DoC and Forest and Bird and started October 2017 with the placement of 36 DOC 200 traps. Further development is anticipated.
GUIDELINES FOR OPEPE WORKERS
Trappers Gear List
Gardening gloves with no holes.
Square-nosed screw driver.
Hand sanitizer
Before you go
Check the weather the night before your planned visit.
Workers will always have at least one other person with them.
Ensure your buddy is available to go with you.
At Opepe
Park as close as possible to the grassy slope. Lock your car, leave valuables at home or take them with you.
Keep with your buddy as you go around the track.
Go around the trap line in order, starting at either N1 or S1 traps.
Check each trap for a catch and that the egg is in place.
Before clearing a trap, record the catch on paper or with your mobile phone camera.
Throw the catch into the bush.
Reset the trap; guide and support your buddy at this stage to avoid injuries.
Screw the trap box lid down again and check the lid has caught before moving to next trap.
Use your hand sanitizer after you take off your gloves and return home.
There will be a team meeting/social get together Wednesday March 7th, 5.30pm at Plateau Bar, 64 Tuwharetoa St. Discuss the roster/trap checks/bait policy, health and safety, expanding the program and the how the website is going.
