Effects of human pressures

As the ultimate integrators of catchment activities, large rivers are subject to a range of impacts from human activities. These impacts include:

  • Flood control measures such as stop-banking which have truncated hydrological interaction with floodplains and associated lakes and wetlands;

  • Proliferation of pest species such as koi carp which can cause habitat modification;

  • Changes to shorezone habitats through the planting of willows and use of riprap;

  • Creation of impoundments and flow regime modification for hydro-electric power generation;

  • Riverbed excavation of sand and gravel;

  • Development of upstream catchments for agriculture.

 

Figure 1

Figure 1.Rip rap wall alongside Waikato River, opposite Grantham St boat ramp, Hamilton. (photo - Brendan Hicks)

Current project

  • Effects of flood control on the use and functioning of lower Waikato River floodplains - Dr Konrad Gorski

    • Completed project

  • Johnston, T. 2011. Comparison of riparian willows and riprap as habitat for fish and invertebrates in the Waikato River. Unpubl. MSc thesis, The University of Waikato. 145 p.

 

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