Functioning Ecosystems

An ecosystem consists of multiple interconnected parts interacting with one another. In order to have a functioning and healthy ecosystem, ecological processes need to work together.
Ecosystems differ considerably in the way they react to changed situations and it can take decades for changes to become evident. The Community Catchment Plan sets out five areas of risks to water in Upper Clutha Catchment:
  1. Urban Development
  2. Rural Development
  3. Increasing Tourism and Recreational Activities
  4. Introduction and Spread of Pest Flora and Fauna
  5. Climate Change
By improving our collective understanding of these risks and working together, we can take actions to protect ecosystem function such as reducing water use, changing activities that affect stormwater discharges and supporting community and citizen science projects.
Here you will find everything in this category.

Posts in this category

  • Microplastics research project kicks off in Wānaka
    WAI Wānaka has initiated research into microplastics in local freshwater environments following funding success from The Otago Participatory Science Platform, Curious Minds, Ten Square Games… Read more
  • Adopt a Drain – Winter
    Winter is here, and so is our ‘Adopt a Drain’ newsletter – winter edition! Don’t let the cold fool you – our actions still matter,… Read more
  • Taking Care of Tyre Gully
    Kia ora kotou, My name is Ben and I am the Science Communicator here at WAI Wānaka. Part of my job is to keep… Read more
  • Water Citizen Scientists unite!
    Hey there, welcome to the water clarity data collection community! We’ve got something pretty cool to tell you about – ever heard of a Secchi… Read more
  • May 2023 Newsletter
    We’ve been gearing up for some exciting new community projects and initiatives here at WAI. We are thrilled to announce we have received funding to… Read more
  • Rural update February 2023
    The field team continues to be busy with plant maintenance and watering, with some rabbit netting for variety. A reminder to those landowners looking to… Read more
  • A passion for galaxiids
    Ash Rabel is WAI Wānaka’s resident scientist, with a passion for galaxiids and protecting Aotearoa’s habitats on land and especially water. Ash explains how WAI… Read more

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