Using MesoHABSIM to develop reference habitat template and ecological management scenarios

An important goal in the development of the MesoHABSIM model is its integration into river management frameworks. Here I explain how the model can be used as a backbone for ecological management planning at the catchment scale, and how it may serve in establishing rehabilitation end‐points. Next, I merge the MesoHABSIM model with the target fish community (TFC) approach to develop target habitat conditions and make recommendations for their achievement. By observing the frequency, magnitude and duration of extreme habitat events occurring under natural conditions, one can estimate the critical habitat values and limiting habitat factors leading to environmental stress. This creates a foundation for the developing dynamic flow/habitat augmentation schemes to help prevent human‐induced pulse and press disturbance at the intra‐ and inter‐annual scale. The rules are seasonal and use ‘habitat’ as an ultimate metric rather than flow alone. The final recommendations identify locations with high restoration potential and conservation needs.