09/08/2026
Restoration Ecology on Farms and Foresty.
A few shots from a recent monitoring and maintenance visit for a research project looking at how native and exotic tree species can establish within grazed farmland, trialing these caged plant guards.
The trial is testing tōtara, kānuka, pūriri and poplar, using protective guards designed to keep grazing animals off the young trees while allowing the surrounding pasture to remain in production.
Our work included measuring tree height and condition, checking the guards, and selectively spraying kikuyu climbing up and competing with the planted trees.
A great example of research exploring practical ways to integrate tree establishment with productive farming systems. 🌳🐄