A Rapid Method to Score Stream Reaches Based on the Overall Performance of Their Main Ecological Functions |
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Authors: | David K Rowe Stephanie Parkyn John Quinn Kevin Collier Chris Hatton Michael K Joy John Maxted and Stephen Moore |
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Institution: | (1) National Institute of Water &; Atmospheric Research Ltd., P.O. Box 11-115, Hamilton, New Zealand;(2) 43a Lambie St, Tumut, NSW, 2729, Australia;(3) Environment Waikato, P.O. Box 4010, Hamilton, New Zealand;(4) Auckland Regional Council, Private Bag 92 012, Auckland, New Zealand;(5) Ecology Group, Institute of Natural Resources, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, New Zealand;(6) South Florida Water Management District, Water Supply Department, P.O. Box 24680, West Palm Beach, FL 33416-4680, USA;(7) Landcare Research Ltd., Private Bag 92 170, Auckland, New Zealand |
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Abstract: | A method was developed to score the ecological condition of first- to third-order stream reaches in the Auckland region of
New Zealand based on the performance of their key ecological functions. Such a method is required by consultants and resource
managers to quantify the reduction in ecological condition of a modified stream reach relative to its unmodified state. This
is a fundamental precursor for the determination of fair environmental compensation for achieving no-net-loss in overall stream
ecological value. Field testing and subsequent use of the method indicated that it provides a useful measure of ecological
condition related to the performance of stream ecological functions. It is relatively simple to apply compared to a full ecological
study, is quick to use, and allows identification of the degree of impairment of each of the key ecological functions. The
scoring system was designed so that future improvements in the measurement of stream functions can be incorporated into it.
Although the methodology was specifically designed for Auckland streams, the principles can be readily adapted to other regions
and stream types. |
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Keywords: | Mitigation Compensation Ecological value No-net-loss Stream restoration |
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