Ecological Services
Nelson based Freshwater Environmental offers a wide range of ecological services in both the private and public sectors across the Top Of The South Island and The West Coast and Canterbury.
Environmental Monitoring
Freshwater Environmental provides tailored environmental monitoring services to assess the health and quality of rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Using robust scientific methods, we collect and interpret data on water quality, habitats, and aquatic life, helping clients meet regulatory requirements and understand ecological changes over time. This ensures informed decision-making for sustainable management of freshwater environments.
River / Stream Water Testing
Freshwater Environmental offers professional river and stream water testing to evaluate key indicators of ecosystem health, including water chemistry, nutrients, and biological communities. By providing accurate, science-based assessments, we help identify potential impacts, track changes over time, and support compliance with environmental standards. This service delivers clear insights to guide sustainable management and protection of freshwater resources.
Freshwater Fish Surveys
We conduct freshwater fish surveys to assess species diversity, population health, and habitat quality 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.
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. This service supports compliance with environmental regulations and promotes the conservation of aquatic biodiversity.
Wetland restoration and construction
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 biodiversitry, habitat for marshbirds or native fish, or attenuation of nutirents 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 muliple 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.