The condition of Lake Wanaka

Press, 2 May 1981, Page 17

The condition of Lake Wanaka

The Resources, of Lake Wanaka. Edited by B. T. Robertson and I. D. Blair. Lincoln Papers in Resource Management, No. 5, 1980. Published for the Guardians of Lake ; Wanaka by Tussock Grasslands and Mountain Lands Institute, Lincoln College. 66pp. Illustrations. $6. Scientific information, about Lake Wanaka in its present state is assembled in this slim volume as a basis for management-decisions and a base line for measuring' changes. The morphology, geology, climate, water quality, aquatic and shore-line vegetation, fish, birds and other wildlife of the lake basin are dealt with in authoritative detail. Two practical problems associated with Wanaka water,

the recent influx of an exotic oxygen weed Lagarosiphon major, and the “swimmers’ itch caused by a tiny native parasite, are given full coverage. A few uncorrected typographical slips in technical names, are to be regretted. A previous report by the Guardians of, Lake Wanaka discussed the controversial topic of lake levels in relation toihydroelectric development of the Clutha»River. Although this issue is not discussed further in the present publication,Several authors touch on the profound Changes which would inevitably occur through any tampering 'With natural levels. '; While the content is technical, much is of general interest and it should be appreciated by anybody concerned with Wanaka s rich resources.—Hugh Wilson.