Small-scale habitat additions engage local communities and support ecosystem restoration in New Zealand streams

Abstract

River restoration projects often focus on riparian management actions such as planting and fencing, under the assumption that improved water quality will result in direct benefits for ecosystem health. Such projects can help rivers to recover from degradation, but successful recovery of instream communities likely requires additional steps targeting physical habitat quality. Ecologically focused instream habitat restoration typically aims to increase habitat complexity, creating more niches to support higher biodiversity. Methods such as channel reconfiguration and addition of large woody material or boulders can be effective; however, their implementation typically requires heavy machinery, consenting and deep pockets. This type of restoration is thus often beyond the physical and financial means of non-governmental organisations and community groups. So, how can we enhance instream habitat without breaking the bank? I present four case studies from New Zealand which trialled instream habitat additions as a practicable restoration tool and an opportunity for community engagement.