Ecological Services
Nelson based Freshwater Environmental offers a wide range of ecological services to both the private and public sectors across the Top Of The South Island, the West Coast, and Canterbury.
Surface Water Quality and Environmental Monitoring
Freshwater Environmental provides tailored monitoring and assessment services to evaluate the health and quality of rivers and lakes. Using established scientific methods, we collect and interpret data on water quality, habitat, and aquatic life - including water chemistry, nutrients, and biological communities—to identify potential impacts, track ecological changes, and support compliance with environmental standards to help clients meet regulatory requirements.
Freshwater Fish Relocation
We provide freshwater fish relocation services to safely move fish populations during in-stream construction, habitat restoration, or waterway maintenance works. Using best-practice capture and handling techniques, we ensure minimal stress and maximum survival of fish while protecting ecological integrity. As an MPI-licensed provider, this service enables compliance with environmental regulations while contributing to the conservation of fish communities and aquatic ecosystems.
Constructed wetlands and wetland enhancement
We specialise in wetland construction and restoration. Our experience ranges from simple methods such as plugging existing drains in low lying areas, to designing and building multi-level in-stream constructed wetlands.
Key to the design for any site are the project objectives which may prioritise biodiversity, habitat for marsh-birds or native fish, or attenuation of nutrients and sediment from pastoral runoff.
For the past four years we have been working closely with Tasman District Council and partners on wetland design and construction at multiple sites across the region.
The Tasman district has lost over 90% of it’s natural wetlands, so no site is too small to be considered for restoration. Many sites have potential to be improved as a ‘permitted activity, while others will require resource consent, which we can assist with.
Freshwater Fish Surveys
We conduct freshwater fish surveys to assess species diversity and population health in rivers, streams, and lakes. Using established sampling methods and ecological expertise, we provide detailed insights into fish communities, helping to identify environmental pressures, monitor restoration outcomes, and inform sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.