Authority appoints 1080 watch list Coordinator

The Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA New Zealand) has appointed a person to coordinate the management of the 1080 watch list and the implementation of the recommendations of the reassessment decision.

The 1080 watchlist, which comes into effect on 1 January 2008, will require users of 1080 to produce detailed reports for the Authority on each aerial drop carried out after that date, including comments on any incidents and public complaints. The management regime will be overseen by a 1080 Coordinator, who will monitor the reports and keep an eye on the research under way on the effects of 1080 and alternatives to possum control.

Authority Chair Neil Walter says ERMA New Zealand has appointed a person with a background in primary industry who has experience in resource management and hazardous substances work.

Mr Walter says one of the Coordinator's most immediate tasks will be to complete the technical process of setting up the 1080 watch list. "He will also need to follow up on the Authority's recommendations for further research into alternative methods of possum control and the effects of 1080, including its persistence in water and soil."

Mr Walter says the Coordinator will be responsible for analysing the reports from aerial 1080 operations and checking on the use of best practice methods for public consultation.

The Authority released its decision on the reassessment of 1080 in August. It allowed the continued use of 1080 in the fight against possums, but said that significant improvements are needed in how the pesticide is used. The Authority tightened controls on users and called for more research to be done. The Authority has written to the government asking for more funding to be made available for research into 1080 and alternatives for controlling possums.