Volunteers help with kakahi (freshwater mussel) count

Volunteers got involved in the first annual kākahi survey at Lake Wairarapa in March. They waded into the lake to collect kākahi, then identify, assess and measure them. This is part of monitoring the population health of kākahi in the lake. Numbers of both the 'common' and 'Auckland' species are in decline nationally. What is important is to find out whether there is the right proportion of different ages of kākahi. This will show whether juveniles are surviving to breed and maintain the population. A report on the initial findings is to follow.

Next year's survey will be held at a second Lake Wairarapa site. Each year the survey will alternate between the two sites. If anyone is interested in participating next year, email toni.delautour@gw.govt.nz