Anne Tierney
Muri Environment Care,
Cook Islands
Muri Lagoon was declared a national disaster in 2015, when large patches of algae darkened the crystal-clear waters that locals and tourists loved swimming in.
Muri Environment Care project manager Anne Tierney says the water has started to clear, thanks to everyone in the village of Muri and some beyond. The community group has had as many as 300 people turn out to volunteer, when hands have been needed to help with projects aimed at restoring the health of the lagoon.
“The whole village of Muri is passionate about Muri Lagoon,” she says. Her group launched in 2008, but the concern about algae in Muri Lagoon became a strong focus from about 2013. Potential causes of the algae include sewage run-off from hotels and other businesses bordering the lagoon. Nutrients in wastewater feed algae, allowing it to flourish and choke waterways.
Various authorities and organisations have worked to minimise sewage pollution and clear out the existing algae and the volunteers at Muri Environment Care are doing everything they can to ensure it won’t take over again.
While Tierney has always loved being outdoors and getting her hands dirty, she is also motivated by the threat of climate change.
“I feel I should be doing something. I don’t know what the future will hold, but if we can try to ensure that things don’t disappear really quickly to our disadvantage, then that’s a pretty good thing to do.”
Since becoming involved with restoring Muri Lagoon, she has become immersed in learning the secrets of trees. “I’ve noticed in most places that I’ve travelled, nearly everybody has a deep love for their country.”
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