Project overview
Location Marlborough
Date of completion March 2019
To protect the grapes lining Marfells Stream; this project required earthworks along the bank of the stream, the installation of gabion baskets to reduce water speed and scouring, and the construction of five culvert crossings to enable efficient transport of vineyard machinery.
Overview
To protect the grapes lining Marfells Stream; this project required earthworks along the bank of the stream, the installation of gabion baskets to reduce water speed and scouring, and the construction of five culvert crossings to enable efficient transport of vineyard machinery.
Working with Marlborough Management Services, 13 gabion drop structures were designed to slow the movement of water in the stream. They were built by Hynds and Geofabrics. But by utilising our own quarried material and fleet of vehicles, we were able to achieve a lower cost of delivery and deliver all 13 structures within 26 working days.
When the drop structures were finished and installed, we brought a second team onboard to complete the remaining earthworks and construct all five culvert crossings; three high and two low.
Challenges
Resource consent required certain heights on culvert pipes to enable fish movement. We met these requirements and were lucky to complete this project while the stream was dry. It meant that no wildlife came in contact with our construction, but to mitigate dust and fire risk we always kept a 2000L water cart onsite. We also left any works over grassy areas for wet days or very early mornings to reduce the fire risk.
Awards
Finalist - CCNZ Nelson/Marlborough Branch Awards 2019.
