Ecological monitoring

Ecological monitoring is also undertaken of 85 lakes in the region on a rotational basis by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA). In 2010-2011, eight lakes were monitored as part of this programme.

Lakes in the programme are ranked according to their ecological value, i.e. how many native or endangered plant and animal species they contain, the absence of pest species and how close the lake is to its natural state.

Of the eight lakes monitored only two lakes had changes to their ranking both of which were degrading ranks (lakes Midgley and Waro). These changes will be further investigated. For more information visit www.nrc.govt.nz/lakedata