Flow levels suggested

Suggested flow levels to protect fish life in the Tokomairiro River should not greatly affect those who take water for irrigation, stock use and industry, the Otago Regional Council says.

The council recently released a report on the river's ecosystem as part of its plan to set minimum flows on the region's rivers during dry periods.

Water resource scientist Dean Olsen said in a report the river supported several threatened native fish species, such as Eldon galaxiids, as well as a locally significant trout fishery.

The amount of allocated surface water was modest - less than half of the available limit of 514.5 litres per second - and included Milton's water supply.

Hydrological information on the west and east branches and main stem of the river was considered separately. The habitat for adult brown trout was most sensitive to flows during the irrigation season, and flows were critical to trout spawning in both branches during winter.

Under a minimum flow regime, consent holders have to stop taking water when minimum flows are reached.

Analysis showed the suggested management flows would not ''significantly reduce the security of supply'' for water users, Dr Olsen said.

 

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