The role of woody debris in providing habitat for aquatic organisms is better understood through research by freshwater scientist, Brenda Baillie.

The management of woody debris following harvesting operations is the focus of a study by Scion freshwater scientist, Brenda Baillie.

Brenda’s PhD project involved a large catchment-scale study on the function of wood in New Zealand’s stream ecosystems. Her research demonstrates how branches and logs play a vital role in keeping streams healthy and nurturing their aquatic inhabitants.

“Wood debris provides natural habitat, shelter and food for freshwater organisms,” she explains. “Pools are formed by debris dams that build up around logs and fallen branches. These pools provide the depth and shade that are particularly important for larger fish species like banded kokopu and eels.”

In areas where forests have been cleared, the removal of wood from streams is detrimental to aquatic life.

“We know that longfin eel numbers are in decline due to over fishing and loss of habitat. Depletion of wood is a contributing factor, as it provides deeper pools with cover. Many native fish species are similarly affected,” Brenda says.

While forests are good for streams, difficulties can arise during harvest. When too much slash is left in stream channels, it harms the ecosystem and creates risk of debris moving downstream during heavy rain. Brenda insists that keeping streams free of wood is not the answer.

“Forest and resource managers can make better use of wood in streams to reduce flooding risks and enhance New Zealand’s stream environments,” she says.

She recommends that large, stable pieces of wood are left in smaller sized streams, providing a win-win for both the stream and the forestry companies.

“Logs and large branches left in streams provide shade and habitat for aquatic organisms and form the basis of natural debris dams. They are also less likely to move downstream during high flows.”

Recommendations arising from Brenda’s PhD study have been incorporated into slash management plans for forestry companies and regional councils. Her research also made a valuable contribution to the proposed National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry.

Hancock Forest Management (NZ) Ltd assisted with Brenda’s research and began incorporating her results early on. Environmental Manager Sally Strang says that this project is a rare example of an academic PhD study that has immediate practical application.

“Management of harvesting woody debris in streams has been the subject of a lot of discussion over the years, both within forestry companies and with our regulators. We’ve debated over whether harvesting wood should be fully or partially removed and, if the latter, what portion do you remove - the small material or the large?” Sally explains.

“We need to manage our operations to maintain the aquatic health of streams in our forests, and also to manage the risk of woody debris mobilising in floods. Brenda’s work has helped to put some sound science behind the decisions that we make in the field, and for our regulators when they’re developing rules and consent conditions.”

Brenda’s thesis, completed through the University of Waikato, is entitled: “The physical and biological function of wood in New Zealand’s forested stream ecosystems.”

“Brenda’s work has helped to put some sound science behind the decisions that we make in the field, and for our regulators when they’re developing rules and consent conditions.”

Logging slash in streams

Retaining large stable pieces of wood that do not impede flow provides benefits to invertebrates and fish, similar to native forest streams.

Want to know more?
CONTACT: Dean Meason