PROJECTS
Lake Hayes Remediation Assessment, New Zealand
The problem
The local community was increasingly unhappy about the water quality of Lake Hayes which had become saturated with excess nutrients from historical farming practices. Algal blooms caused by excess nutrients releasing into the lake under certain climatic conditions were restricting its popular use for recreational swimming, boating and fishing. Environmental engineers identified options to remove, block, or flush the excess nutrients. Otago Regional Council needed to know if it was worth spending money to clean up the lake.
How we helped
We conducted an economic (benefit cost) assessment of three options proposed by environmental engineers to clean the lake. Our evaluation weighed up the costs of capital and operating expenditure (weighted by the probability and degree of success) against the expected increase in recreational and amenity values. We consulted with local groups that used the lake and presented our findings to the public.
Impact
We demonstrated that it was economically justified to invest in cleaning the lake, and that the economic benefits exceeded the costs of the cleaning options. This helped the Otago Regional Council decide to proceed with the clean-up, ensuring that the local community will once again be able to enjoy the lake for recreational purposes.
How can we help you?
How can we help you?
WASHINGTON, DC
+1 (202) 466-6790
1747 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 1200
United States of America
SYDNEY
+61 (2) 9231 6862
Suite 19.01, Level 19, 227 Elizabeth Street
Australia
AUCKLAND
+64 (4) 913 2800
Sinclair House, 3 Glenside Crescent
New Zealand
WELLINGTON
+64 (4) 913 2800
Level 2, 88 The Terrace
New Zealand
PARIS
+33 (0)1 85 64 10 22
3B Rue Taylor
France
BOGOTÁ
+57 (1) 508 5794
Calle 81 #11-08, Piso 5, Oficina 5-121
Colombia
Thinking for a better world.
WASHINGTON, DC
+1 (202) 466-6790
1747 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 1200
United States of America
SYDNEY
+61 (2) 9231 6862
Suite 19.01, Level 19, 227 Elizabeth Street
Australia
AUCKLAND
+64 (4) 913 2800
74D France Street, Newton South
New Zealand
WELLINGTON
+64 (4) 913 2800
Level 2, 88 The Terrace
New Zealand
PARIS
+33 (1) 73 44 26 97
6 Rue Duret
France
BOGOTÁ
+57 (1) 508 5794
Calle 81 #11-08, Piso 5, Oficina 5-127
Colombia
Thinking for a better world.