Targeted Stream Augmentation

Aquifers naturally feed lowland waterways via springs. These springs rely on minimum groundwater levels or pressures. When spring flow is low or absent, the waterway can be kept alive by pumping groundwater at a high value location.

HHWET partnered with Eiffelton Community Group Irrigation Scheme (ECGIS) on a government funded project to develop a business case for solar powered TSA in environmental and / or irrigation situations. The business case produced positive results for all options, particularly for larger solar panel arrays that are also connected to the electricity network.

The Windermere Drain is the current focus for Targeted Stream Augmentation. This waterway is the first in the Hekeao/Hinds Plains to reach a 2035 Plan Change 2 water quality target. Fish surveys in Windermere Drain have also shown an increase in the number of fish species and the total fish mass. Project updates can be found in HHWET Annual Reports.