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.​
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TLC is keen to learn more about the presence of cow cress throughout the Tukituki catchment. If you have cow cress on your property, we encourage you to reach out to TLC catchment coordinator Pixie Seligman.
Kahahakuri Cow Cress and Channel Erosion Mitigations Workshop
Presentation by A/Prof. Ranvir Singh (Environmental Hydrology & Soil Science)
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. Following a number of site visits in the catchment, local farmers were invited to a presentation by A/Prof. Ranvir Singh, Environmental Hydrology & Soil Science at Massey University. In his presentation, Prof Singh suggested that a coordinated and consistent effort with tools such as targeted spraying, riparian planting, and mitigation of nutrient losses could help reduce and manage its growth in the streams.
Kahahakuri Cow Cress Mitigations
Report prepared for TLC
Following a presentation to farmers in the Kahahakuri catchment, a report 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 TLC. It 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. Richard's presentation to the landowners in the Kahahakuri catchment is attached below.