The sedimentation rate in the Hutt Estuary over the past 10 years shows a trend of deposition, which has increased over the last 5 years. Most recent sediment accrual is sand dominated with a relatively low mud content, comparable to previous years. Sediment movement and deposition is variable due primarily to the influence of stream inputs and flows. Dredging in the lower Hutt River may also influence sediment accrual on the adjacent intertidal flats. The 2021 results show the estuary flats remain under pressure from sediment impacts and further reinforce previous recommendations to manage sediment inputs to the estuary.

Reference: Roberts KL. 2021. Hutt Estuary: 2020/21 Intertidal Sediment Monitoring Summary. Salt Ecology Report 001, prepared for Greater Wellington Regional Council, February 2021. 2p.

Author: Keryn Roberts. Salt Ecology