By Dan Satherley
Scientists have backed a controversial report that backs the use of 1080 poison to control pests such as stoats and possums.
Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Dr Jan Wright says the report shows banning 1080 would be a "disaster" for New Zealand's native plants and wildlife.
“Kiwi on the mainland, for example, will be basically gone in a generation,” she told 3 News last night, calling for increased use of the poison.
"It is seldom that I come to such a strong conclusion at the end of an investigation. But the possums, rats and stoats that have invaded our country will not leave of their own accord."
Anti-1080 campaigners however are remaining staunch in the face of the report.
“She doesn't really seem to have the qualifications to say what she's saying on that side of conservation, and the pests that are out there,” says anti-1080 campaigner Daniel Lane.
But scientists have backed the commissioner, saying the report is scientifically sound.
"I hope its key recommendations are implemented as all are soundly-based," says Prof Dave Kelly, terrestrial ecologist at the University of Canterbury.
He says fears about 1080's alleged negative effects on the environment are "not supported by the evidence".
"Claims that 1080 has negative effects on native animals are basically incorrect. The net effect of recent well-run operations is overwhelmingly positive, and as the PCE report notes, there are situations where there is no practical alternative to 1080 for protecting native wildlife."
Assoc Prof Dianne Brunton of Massey University agrees.
"The alternative of no control would be disastrous for our native species – rodents and stoats simply wipe out native birds and reptiles and invertebrates."
Prof Doug Armstrong, wildlife ecology professor, also of Massey University, says activists see native bird numbers declining, and erroneously attribute it to 1080.
“Most people seem to mistake the ongoing declines of native birds due to predation to effects of 1080," he says.
"They are therefore largely anti-1080, but would probably not be if they understood that 1080 is used to control exotic mammals that have caused declines and extinctions of native birds."
United Future MP Peter Dunne rejects the report.
“I don't accept the premise of this report that because we've been using it for 50 years and it hasn't worked we should use more of it,” he says.
Mr Dunne believes the Government needs to invest in researching alternatives to 1080 – and scientists, despite opposing views of effectiveness of 1080, agree.
“It is a field where ongoing open research is important," says Prof Brunton.
"Not all sites are suitable for 1080 or other poisons especially if they are close to human habitation or require repeated applications over long time periods."
AP