Freshwater Research and Education Centre for Wanaka

Press Release from Maggie Lawton

Press Release: Freshwater Research and Education Centre for Wanaka

An exciting new venture is planned in Wanaka, the development of an Alpine Lakes Research and Education Centre (ALREC) to support the management of the iconic South Island alpine lakes, rivers and other freshwater ecosystems and help safeguard their long-term health. A MoU has been signed between the newly formed Lake Wanaka Trust, Otago Fish and Game who are generously providing an area of their Hatchery land in Wanaka for the Centre and the University of Otago who will, amongst other researchers, be using the facilities.

The lakes are pivotal to our communities. To safeguard these ecosystems we need a much better understanding of the pressures that can upset their health, so action can be taken to redress the problems.

The Steering Group working on this initiative includes Ella Lawton and Calum McLeod from QLDC, Ruth Harrison from DoC, Don Robertson from the Guardians of Lake Wanaka and others representing the local community. ALREC Steering Group spokesperson, Maggie Lawton, identifies significant community concerns regarding recent ecological changes to the lakes and rivers. “In addition to Lagarosiphon and Didymo, there are now the problems caused by the arrival of Lake Snow, which is impacting on recreational use and water supply infrastructure.”

In addition to research, the Centre will provide an education and outreach facility for the local community and school groups who want to know more about and be involved in maintaining the health and beauty of their freshwater environment.

The detailed concept for the Centre is currently being developed with much planning and fundraising to be done.

© Scoop Media