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4.4 Forestry and Hydrology
Authors: C L O'LoughlinPublication: NZIF Forestry Handbook, Volume Section 4 – Forests and the environment, pp 4, Dec 2023
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry
Abstract: The influences of forests on erosion rates, stream water quality and streamflow have great significance in New Zealand because most important rivers and streams providing water for recreation, domestic supply, irrigation and industry, drain forested terrain. Furthermore, there is an increasing need within the forestry profession to sustain and protect water and soil values to meet the requirements of resource consents and forest certification systems. The conversion of pasture, grassland or scrub to forest and the management of forests can profoundly influence erosion and sedimentation rates, aquatic environments and aquatic biota in positive and negative ways. Forests can also influence the quality and quantity of groundwater. This section will examine these influences and their implications for forest management and indicate where relevant advice and information relating to various forest hydrological aspects can be obtained.