Stream surveys provide huge knowledge base

August 5, 2005

A recently-completed survey of urban streams is believed to be the largest and most exhaustive ever carried out by any New Zealand local authority.

Conducted by the North Shore City Council, the project aims to promote an understanding of the city's streams; to raise awareness of the need for protection; and to educate the public around the health, beauty and safety of our city's environment.

The survey supports the city's consultative initiative, 'The Kokopu Connection', which is an essential element in the city's application for Auckland Regional Council consents which allow the city to legally operate, maintain and upgrade its stormwater network.

The survey itself took time and dedication - the work started in 2002 when Tom Mansell and Damien Young donned waders and armed themselves with nets and sample containers to walk 26 city streams.

This intensive investigation included observing and surveying fish species, fish barriers, spawning areas, vegetation, storm water outfall pipes, erosion, stream bank stability, water clarity, and even extended to grouping the streams according to their ecological value.

They gathered extensive ecological and engineering information, and in July last year the Stream Report was completed. Since then the reports have been collated and information prepared from them so that the all-important consents can be filed.

The quality and quantity of water that flows to our streams each year is a concerning issue for us all. Polluted water and high flows are not only harming the plants and animals that live there, but also the overall health, beauty and safety of our environment.

On approval from the Auckland Regional Council, North Shore City will be able to generate stream management plans which govern the level and type of development permitted in catchment areas.

For further information, including access to the survey data, please visit the Council's website www.northshorecity.govt.nz and go to "our environment" and click on "streams".

ENDS

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