Native Forest Hydrology Research
Catchment monitoring in the Karuah Hydrology Research Area, Hunter region NSW
Summary
The forest hydrology research program was initiated in the mid-1970s to investigate the potential impacts of native forest harvesting and subsequent forest regeneration on water yields. In State forests, replicated catchment experiments are currently located in the Hunter region (Chichester State Forest) and in the South East region (Yambulla State Forest). Former catchments were located at Tantawangalo on the south coast.
Project Objectives
Catchment monitoring in the Karuah Hydrology Research Area, Hunter region NSW
The long-term replicated catchment experiments aim to determine the impacts of native forest harvesting on water yields, storm flows and base flows from small forested catchments. Treated catchments were subjected to differing levels and types of disturbance in the early 1980s and today comprise either native forest regrowth or eucalypt plantations. The next phase of the program aims to determine the impacts of regrowth and/or plantation thinning on water yields, base flows and storm flows. This project has important implications for the impacts of land management practices in forests (both SF and National parks) and on the supply of water to downstream users, particularly in water supply catchments.
Partners
Funded by Forests NSW
Leader
Dr Ashley Webb
Forests NSW
Coffs Harbour