Eco Youth enjoyed an action-packed camp at the Peel Forest Eco Lodge. DOC’s Tim Exton, took the group for a trapping session. They then had the skills to check the traps around the lodge daily. They also set up a camera and bait station.
The youth also helped tackle the Himalayan lily, which is spreading around the lodge — pulling seedlings and digging out larger plants. A walk with Karen Miles from Project Peel offered the chance to learn about local native and invasive species (and check even more traps!).
The group contributed an impressive 55 volunteer hours during the camp.
Another highlight was a river survey near Blandswood, where participants learned what makes a healthy river — exploring water chemistry, flow rate, and ecology — guided by Chris Konings and Isaac Davies, who is completing his master’s in freshwater ecology.
A big thank you to Tim, Karen, Isaac, Sarah Robinson and Michelle Bunt for helping make this camp such a success and to Chris for organising, leading, and supporting such an inspiring and hands-on weekend!
