Kyle Hilliam’s newest publication focuses on quantifying the movement dynamics of New Zealand’s recreational vessels to inform proactive management to prevent the spread of non-indigenous species (NIS). The identification of spreading hubs and locations at particular risk of NIS introductions, enables managers to design risk-based and effective surveillance and monitoring programmes.
Showcasing our research at the first Fiordland Marine Research Symposium
At the beginning of March, the DETECT team in the marine biosecurity program had the opportunity to showcase collaborative expeditions at the first Fiordland Marine Research Symposium in Te Anau, hosted by the Fiordland Marine Guardians and Department of Conservation. The symposium aimed to provide the public with insights from marine scientists who have conducted work in Fiordland.
Michelle Scriver, a Ph.D. student from the DETECT program, and Stacey Te Pohue Rose, from the Blue Cradle Foundation, traveled to Te Anau to share data from an expedition aboard the MV Stranik. This expedition, undertaken by collaborators from the Cawthron Institute, the Institute of Environmental Scientific Research, the University of Otago, and Blue Cradle, investigated microplastic pollution and the presence of marine invasive species in October 2021. Michelle’s presentation focused on marine biosecurity research, highlighting the development of new, in-field molecular detection technologies at the Cawthron Institute through the Marine Biosecurity Toolbox. These technologies contribute to understanding biodiversity and detecting pest species, further protecting our marine environment in Fiordland and beyond. For more details and amazing videos from the cruise, please see our previous blog post!
Michelle Scriver, PhD Student, giving on talk to the symposium (left) and Stacey Te Pohue Rose discussing the Blue Cradle Foundation (right). Photo credit: Kerri-Anne Edge.
The symposium was a great success, with a high turnout from locals who were engaged and interested in the research. The following day, a meeting was held with the Guardians to discuss ways to improve their ability to facilitate research and monitoring in the Fiordland marine area, continuing collaboration between organizations such as DOC, local councils, and Biosecurity NZ.
A special thanks to Dr. Rebecca McLeod, the Chair of Guardians, and Richard Kinsey from DOC for their hard work in organizing this event.
Related Posts
This Post Has 0 Comments