The Otago Regional Council has begun the process of setting
minimum flows to protect the aquatic ecosystems, and their
natural character, of the Nevis River, in Central Otago.
It is the 10th river in Otago to be assessed as part of a
Regional Plan: Water 2004 requirement for the setting of
minimum flows.
In a report to a recent environmental science committee,
resource scientist Eric Brown said socioeconomic and other
local factors would also need to be taken into consideration
when setting minimum flows.
The Nevis was a regionally significant trout fishery known
for its trophy fish and provided an important spawning ground
for trout.
It was also considered to be an iconic river by kayakers and
was home to a unique population of native Gollum galaxias.
The report proposed minimum flows of 5.8cumecs at Wentworth
Station from January to August and 7.7cumecs from September
to December.
Having two levels of flow would provide for both native fish
and waterfowl within the Nevis catchment, he said.
The report would now go to the policy committee for
consideration.
It would then go out for public consultation, with a view to
water plan change hearings being held in 2010-11.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.