Frequently Asked Questions
Undertaking works in a waterway
1Do I need a consent to work in a waterway?
Yes. All works in or near waterways need consent.
2When should I check for fish?
If a waterway usually has water in it and the water depth is more than one or two centimetres, then it may contain fish and fish salvage may be required (https://www.ccc.govt.nz/assets/Documents/Environment/Water/waterways-guide/Fish-Salvage-Guidance-for-Works-in-Waterways.pdf).
3When should I contact an experienced freshwater ecologist?
As soon as possible! We can provide advice on design, timing, and what you can and can't do, which will save you time and money in the long run.
4There aren′t any fish in there, right?
Wrong! Most of our native fish species are cryptic and hard to see. Introduced fish like brown trout like to hang out in the open and are predators, but our native fish are generally small and need to hide! The best exception to this are our (usually) friendly eels that like to bask in the sun or come out looking for food from people.
Christchurch City is home to many native species, including five species of bully ⁄ toitoi, two species of migratory galaxiid (whitebait), two species of eels ⁄ tuna, Canterbury mudfish ⁄ kowaro, torrentfish ⁄ papanoko, lamprey ⁄ kanakana, flounder, smelt, mullet, koura, and freshwater mussels ⁄ kakahi.In the wider Canterbury area, there are also koaro and various species of non-migratory galaxiids.
Environmental Monitoring
1What do you monitor?
We monitor a wide range of environmental aspects for a variety of purposes. We assess water and sediment chemistry, flow, stream and riparian habitat, aquatic invertebrates, and fish. We can monitor both spatial and temporal (over time) impacts on the aquatic environment.
2Who do you monitor for?
We work with a wide variety of clients including District and Regional Councils, the Department of Conservation, Landcare Research, NIWA, farmers, construction companies, residential developers, farmers and viticulturists. Basically anyone who may have an influence on waterways and lakes.
3Where do you monitor?
AEL is based in Christchurch and we regularly work throughout Canterbury. We also work in Marlborough, the West Coast and Wellington. We have flexible working arrangements and can work throughout the country, and have undertaken some work overseas.
Applying for Resource Consent
1Can you tell me what impact my activity will have on the aquatic environment?
Yes. We can review your plans and provide guidance on how you can minimise the impact of your activity. To provide an accurate assessment of effects (see Assessment of Environmental Effects FAQ), we will need to undertake field investigations to determine the existing state of the environment and any potential impacts.
2Can you give me advice on environmental mitigation?
Absolutely! It's a great idea to consider environmental mitigation early, this makes the consent application process much smoother. By getting us involved early we can advise on plans, ensuring that the client objectives are met, and environmental impacts are minimal. In fact, many of our projects can benefit the aquatic environment for comparatively little cost if planned appropriately.
3What sort of activities require a Resource Consent?
Any activity in or near a waterway may require resource consent. Such activities may include water abstractions, discharges, groundwater pumping adjacent to waterways and any work in the waterway.
Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE)
1What is an AEE?
AEE stands for Assessment of Environmental Effects. An AEE is usually undertaken for consent applications when the effect of an activity needs to be determined.
2Who needs to get an AEE?
Anyone proposing to undertake work in or near a waterway should contact an experienced freshwater ecologist to see if their activity requires an AEE.
Resource Surveys and Research
1What is a Resource Survey?
A resource survey is an assessment of the current state of any particular resource. For example, AEL undertakes work investigating the state of fish populations through both assessment of adult numbers and spawning habitat.
Habitat Restoration and Development
1Do I need a freshwater ecologist for my restoration project?
Yes! While engineers can design a functional space for people, and architects can make things look great, it takes an experienced ecologist to know what works for the local ecology. Many restoration projects that have not consulted or not followed a freshwater ecologist's advice have fallen well short of their potential. AEL can advise on how to maximise environmental benefits without compromising on look or functionality.
2When should I contact an experienced freshwater ecologist?
As soon as possible! We can provide advice on design, timing, and specific species habits, which will save you time and money in the long run.
3What is a riparian zone?
This is the area along the river margins and banks where there is a direct interaction between the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Riparian zones are critical for the health and functioning of waterways, providing food, shade and contaminant removal. In addition, the riparian zone is used by several native whitebait species for spawning.