K David

Biography

David is a senior scientist in Cawthron’s Coastal and Freshwater Group. His key areas of expertise include: water quality monitoring and modelling  lake ecology native fisheries ecology and foodwebs  benthic community ecology.  David has been a key member of central government programmes to effectively manage and monitor freshwater. He has served on lake ecosystem technical advisory groups, science advisory panels and steering committees for National Environmental Monitoring and Reporting (NEMaR). He also played a central role in setting environmental limits – as part of the Land and Water Forum projects – and National Environmental Standards (draft National Environmental Standard on Ecological Flows and Water Levels). He has considerable experience presenting technical evidence in court (including large cases) such as: Horizons Regional Council’s One Plan  proposed Mokihinui Hydro Project (Meridian Ltd)  Matihina Dam re-consenting (TrustPower Ltd)  Maitai Dam re-consenting (Nelson City Council)  Upper Waitaki Basin land-use intensification applications.  David is a very keen outdoorsman. He became a biologist because of his love of the outdoors and his conviction that we must manage our environment sustainably for future generations to enjoy. His non-work pursuits are mostly based around enjoying water, including fly fishing, kayaking, scuba diving and boating. Before joining Cawthron in 2012, he worked for the Department of Conservation’s research and development group and in NIWA’s freshwater ecosystems team in Christchurch.  

Research Interest

Water quality   Freshwater monitoring and indicators  Fisheries and foodwebs  Ecological modelling Invasive species  Stable isotope analyses  Benthic ecology  Scientific diver – Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (since 2003)  Qualified skipper – Maritime NZ Master of small research vessel  Qualified electric fishing machine operator  Field first aid provider