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flag Invasive lodgepole pines, not commercial radiata plantations, drive New Zealand’s wilding pine issue, experts say.

flag The New Zealand Institute of Forestry is calling for a more accurate public conversation about pine trees, clarifying that commercial radiata pine plantations are not the source of the wilding pine problem. flag NZIF President James Treadwell explains that invasive lodgepole pines were introduced historically for erosion control, not by the forestry industry. flag He advocates for a national, well-funded strategy to manage wilding pines through coordinated catchment-by-catchment efforts involving government, iwi, councils, landowners, and foresters. flag While addressing concerns over storm debris—much of which came from native forests and farm plantings—Treadwell highlights the environmental and economic benefits of well-managed radiata pine plantations, including carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, water quality improvement, and protection of native forests. flag The industry is investing in better practices and diversification, underscoring its vital role in New Zealand’s sustainable development.

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