Managing invasive species on the Pacific Islands

Dr Greg Sherley ONZM, Associate, Future Partners International Development, Wellington, New Zealand

Invasive alien species and failures in biosecurity are among the greatest threats to biodiversity across Oceania’s roughly 30,000 islands, collectively known as Small Island Developing States. The impacts extend beyond native species and ecosystems to agriculture, human health and livelihoods, while also increasing the vulnerability of island communities to climate change. Dr Sherley will discuss practical guidelines developed through the Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS) to strengthen invasive-species management across the region. He will explain how the programme is structured, the partnerships that support it, how its performance is assessed, and the challenges of maintaining an effective, collaborative model over the long term.

​Nature Talks is a series of bi-monthly talks offered by three local environmental groups—Birds New Zealand (Whanganui Region), the Whanganui branch of Forest & Bird, and the Wanganui Botanical Group—in conjunction with the Whanganui Regional Museum. The topics all relate to New Zealand’s environment, natural history and conservation. The talks are typically held on the third Tuesday of every second month.

Entrance is free, although to help cover costs, a koha is always appreciated from those who can afford it.

For more information contact Peter Frost (06 343 1648). Email pghfrost@xtra.co.nz

Feature image: Invasive vines such as Merremia are widespread on the Pacific Islands, smothering native vegetation and agricultural crops, and increasing the risk of fire and the likelihood of tree blowdowns during storms.
Image credit: Kaua’i Invasive Species Committee https://www.kauaiisc.org/wood-rose/)