World Wetlands Day Celebration
"Soggy Feet at Boggy Creek & All Go at Wainono "
Celebration of all things wet and biodiverse at the Boggy Creek Reserve, Lake Ellesmere, 30th January 2010
What is World Wetlands Day?
Each year, on the 2nd of February World Wetlands Day (WWD) is celebrated around the world. The day marks the date of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands in 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea. WWD was celebrated for the first time in 1997 and made an encouraging beginning. Each year, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and groups of citizens at all levels of the community have taken advantage of the opportunity to undertake actions aimed at raising public awareness of wetland values and benefits in general and the Ramsar Convention in particular.
World Wetlands Day in 2010
In 2010 the theme for WWD is 'Caring for Wetlands - An Answer to Climate Change'. This theme acknowledges the role that wetlands can play, both as a carbon sink and as protectors against the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise. In New Zealand, where wetlands once abounded, the drainage and development of the nation's 'swamps' means few of these systems remain in their natural state. Where wetlands do survive, the invasion of pests and weeds threaten their sustainability, including biodiversity. WWD is the opportunity to recognise the importance and experience the wonder of our wetland systems.
How will it be Celebrated in Canterbury?
'Soggy Feet at Boggy Creek' or 'All Go at Wainono'
In 2010 Canterbury's WWD celebrations will occur at the Fish and Game managed reserve at Boggy Creek (Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora) and the Wainono Lagoon (near Waimate), on the shores of Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora. Activities at both events will include:
- Plant 'safaris'
- Bird and eel watching
- Tips on stream and wetland restoration
- Fishing lessons with experienced anglers
Food (BBQ), parking and toilet facilities will be available on-site
Time: 10 am - 3 pm (Boggy Creek event); 10:00 am - 1:30 pm (Wainono event)
Date: Saturday 30th January 2010
Location: Boggy Creek Reserve (Collets Road, Lake Ellesmere); Wainono Lagoon (turn right off SH1 at Waimate turn off)
For more details, including maps, download event flyers from the link below:
Boggy Creek Event - Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora (1.2 MB)
