Ellesmere Sustainable Agriculture Inc (ESAI) is inviting its members and any local residents to attend a public information evening on March 31 where senior ecologists will present the findings of a feasibility study into restoring a fish passage between the Rakaia River lagoon and Jollies Brook.
The study showed the potential for significant benefits for the environment in the area.
The assessment included planning and ecological investigations to determine if there were any ‘red flags’ associated with the proposal and made recommendations for further studies to supplement known information.
The feasibility study was carried out by senior ecologists from Pattle Delamore Partners (PDP) on behalf of ESAI.
The feasibility study concluded that opening up the waterway would provide passage for a variety of fish species to move in and out of Jollies Brook, improve the water quality through increased volume, reduce stagnation and restore Jollies Brook Lagoon to its former extent.
Potential risks that were identified were possible passage of introduced predatory fish into the lagoon, the spread of exotic plants and possible damage to the existing ecosystem.
The public information evening will be held on Thursday, March 31 from 5:30pm at the Lakeside Soldiers Memorial Hall near Leeston.
Due to covid restrictions, attendance will require vaccine passes to be shown. If you are not able to attend, please contact Jo Fearn (jo.tinaku@esai.co.nz or 0210 304783) on the below contact details prior to the event and your questions and concerns will be put to PDP on your behalf on the night.
