ben ohau forest, canterbury
Forest Type - Introduced
Emission Reductions
66,165 tCO2 total stored
8,000 tCO2 annual removals
Start Date - 2000
Project Type - Reforestation
164 hectares
Standard - Permanent Forest Sink Initiative (PFSI)
Ben Ohau Forest is a privately-owned property located near Twizel, Canterbury. As part of the conservation philosophy implemented by the landowner since acquiring the land in 1999, the forest is protected in perpetuity through its registration with the PFSI.
The forest is unique with a wide variety of tree plantings, encouraging the development of complex ecosystems. The main planted species is Douglas Fir from New Zealand and the south of France. Other species representing around 20% of the site, include Larch (L. eurolepsis, decidua), different species of Pines, including ponderosa, nigra and radiata, Redwoods (S. giganteum), sorbus species such as Oak and other indigenous species.
There has been a noticeable increase in bird diversity since the establishment of the forest. A scientific report found more than 35 bird species in the area, for which the forest is providing a biodiversity resource for both indigenous and introduced species.
Pest control has been conducted since the forest acquisition, first focusing on hare control before leading on possum control who represent a significant problem for tree damage in spring, especially Larch. Finally, there is a programme in place to control wilding Pine contorta since the plantation.
The forest has public access and is part of a well-known hiking track in the region, open for hikers, bikers and horse riders.
