Thread: Possum Trapping

Originally Posted by scotsman

Haha thanks mate!! im getting there! I'm glad I've percivered with this venture.

Ive been putting thought into talking to DOC for a while actually. I was planning to put together a case to put to them for what its worth. I just wasn't sure what i wanted from them. Or if id even be sombody they would be interested in as i only trap. If they could give me access to more bush that would be a bonus. Would they ever pay me on top of what i earn from the fur?

@scotsman
If you like just working for yourself and selling fur then you are on the right track now, trapping private land or getting a permit for DoC land. No DoC won't pay you unless you are actually working for them as a contractor on a specific conservation project.

If you would like to work as a contractor/subcontractor to a government agency (eg. DoC, TB Free NZ, regional council) or private organisation (eg. QE2 National Trust, forestry company, Maori trust, rich private landowner) you could certainly get a job doing ground control which could involve trapping, monitoring or hand-laying poison. You might not get to keep the fur... but you get a regular paycheck for doing what you love in the outdoors. If this appeals to you, ask around and you'll soon hear who are the main players in your area.

Professional pest control is big business in NZ these days with the need for brands to be seen as "sustainable" and "environmentally conscious". You can find a contractor in your area in the Yellow Pages, look up "Animal Control Consultants" or "Pest Control". The skills you have and willingness to live in a hut, woolshed or tent camp are really sought after. Don't under-estimate this! The pest-control scene in NZ is pretty tightly-knit, so once you're in...you're in.