Unsung forest heroes According to Aongatete Forest Project’s Karen Smillie, fungi play an important role in the ecosystem. “If it wasn’t for fungi and insects we would be surrounded
by piles of non-decaying matter. Our plants have evolved to co-exist with the fungi in the soil.” As part of the Echo Walking Festival, the conservation group
is offering a guided Aongatete Fungi Walks. Visitors will go on an educational walk around the Aongatete Short Loop searching for fungi and learning about
at the beach
It’s a New Season... So Much To Show You!
its fascinating role in the ecosystem as decomposers, symbionts and pathogens. Read more on page 3. Pictured: Uenuku Ainsley. Photo / Rebecca Mauger