Waterway restoration sees return of endangered mudfish

The Kōwaro or Canterbury Mudfish has been confirmed at the Somerset dairy farm south of Timaru following visits by Department of Conservation (DOC) staff in April and May.

The population of mudfish was found living in the farm’s irrigation spring, an ideal habitat for mudfish because of the clean, clear water and the dense aquatic plant growth. The DOC team netted 72 mudfish ranging in size from 77 mm to 149 mm in length.

Somerset business manager, Alex Pattullo, says the discovery follows the completion of a comprehensive waterway restoration project over the last two years.

“We have replaced the old diesel irrigation pump with a new electric pump to reduce risk of any chemical leeching or contamination and fenced the site to stock-proof it.

“In addition, more than 2,760 native plants consisting of dry woodland shrubs and trees as well as flax and reed plants have been planted at the water edge. This will ensure a regenerating native bush block around the site, providing shade, shelter and food for many native and endangered species.”

A report by DOC states riparian planting is “extensive” and “had a variety of species”.

The report concluded that the composition of macrophytes (acquatic plants) in the water was diverse and representative of good water quality and stable hydrology, both good indications of habitat quality.

The water itself had excellent clarity, probably because it was spring-fed and largely free of stock.

Stuart Taylor, Craigmore’s general manager of farming, says the company regards it as a privilege and a serious responsibility to be entrusted to manage land, soils, water and other natural resources in New Zealand

“Craigmore has several sustainability programmes in place to ensure we strike a balance between respecting the environment and running a sustainable and profitable rural operation.

“We strive to grow healthy and safe products while at the same time protect and enhance soil and water quality.

“We’re committed to leaving the world in a better place and allow the generations that follow to continue to earn a living from the land.”