Riparian Ecology and Fluvial Geomorphology
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| Case Study 1 | Minderoo Hydrological Impact Assessment |
|---|---|
| Client | Murion Pastoral Company |
| Location | Ashburton River, West Pilbara |
Description
Astron evaluated the potential impact that constructing a dam on the Ashburton River may have on the health and distribution of upstream and downstream riparian vegetation. The study combined analysis of river hydrology, flora studies and an assessment of ecological water requirements versus environmental flows. A hydrological model was developed to quantify the impacts of a dam on downstream flows and the magnitude and extent of flooding.
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| Case Study 2 | Waterway Foreshore Assessment Methodology for Pilbara Rivers |
|---|---|
| Client | Water and Rivers Commission (WRC) |
| Location | Relevant to all waterways in the Pilbara |
Description
While much knowledge about Australian waterways has been developed in temperate and tropical floodplain catchments, there is considerably less information for the variable surfacewater flows typical of the Pilbara. In order to address this gap in waterway management, Astron was engaged by WRC to develop a survey method that would aid land managers to assess foreshore condition of Pilbara waterways. The survey assessment was based on the stability of the landform within the riparian zone, and included the physical characteristics of the landform and the status of the riparian vegetation.
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| Case Study 3 | Assessment of Erosion and Vegetation at the Cane River Wetland |
|---|---|
| Client | Central Agricultural and Pastoral Aboriginal Corporation (CAPAC) |
| Location | Cane River, West Pilbara |
Description
The Cane River Wetland is a large (500 ha) episodically
inundated marshland; an unusual feature in an otherwise dry
environment. In 2000, concern was raised about the deteriorating
condition of the wetland in response to land management instigated
changes in sedimentation and erosion. Astron was commissioned by
the CAPAC to examine the current situation and provide advice as to
suitable
rehabilitation and protection measures. An assessment of the
problem is currently being undertaken through the identification of
long-term changes in wetland morphology and vegetation
structure.
For more information, see our riparian ecology and fluvial geomorphology services page.
