The Styx Living Laboratory Trust Trustees

Dr Chris Phillips is an earth scientist who specialises in studying erosion processes, but particularly how vegetation mitigates erosion. Currently he leads and manages a group of researchers at Landcare Research who conduct research and provide advice for regional and central government and primary sectors. He is an honorary (life) member of the New Zealand Association of Resource Management, is a board member of a global community of professionals working on natural hazard risk management (ecorisQ), and is the acting chair of the Styx Living Laboratory Trust.

During my first term as a Community Board Member I learned so much about the Styx River and what is being done to conserve and restore it - things that I would not have known otherwise. I want to help share this knowledge about what the Styx has to offer, and how people can get involved. I am excited to have this opportunity as a trustee to be a part of the work that is going on, and to enhance the Styx for my children and future generations.

Originally a civil engineer, but later a groundwater scientist. I've always been interested in water and environmental issues. I have been with the StYX Living Laboratory Trust for many years and have gained a lot of knowledge of all the urban rivers by acting as a guide for local groups who also wish to better appreciate what wonderful assets they are.

Director of Eco Tourism, Australasia

John says, "My involvement with the Styx River was as a response from returning to Christchurch after living for many years in national parks in Australia. Noticing how Christchurch was rapidly pushing out into the country with urban growth, I thought it would be a good thing to be involved with conserving the Styx River in its natural state. It's not over yet, there is still plenty to do and to know that future generations, wildlife and the river will benefit from what is being accomplished."

Special interest in state of environment monitoring and reporting, environmental indicators and guideline development.

As a seasonal Salmon Angler, keen interests centre on water quantity and quality, with a belief that all people associated with water from the aquafers or rivers, have common interest in ensuring appropriate techniques maintain healthy waterways.

As a current Councillor with North Canterbury Fish & Game the invitation to join as a Trustee with Styx Living Laboratory was accepted providing opportunity to maximise interests in this valuable environmental facility.

Healthy populations of Trout, Salmon, Whitebait, Native Fish species and Game Birds, are the principal interest.

Sally has a long history of community involvement especially in social services and as an elected member of the Shirley/Papanui Community Board.

Sally says, "I am a trustee because I think the Styx is an amazing river that so many people are only recently becoming aware of. The opportunity exists to be part of something unique and very exciting."

Tim Davie is a Trustee representing Environment Canterbury. The Styx Living Laboratory Trust offers an opportunity for the local community to work together with Environment Canterbury to ensure the impacts of urbanisation are minimised on the river and the Styx maintains its special character.

Dr Davie is the Chief Scientist at Environment Canterbury and has worked in the water resource management area for over 25 years. He has previously been on the Board of Management for the Trust and brings a wealth of experience and expertise on catchment management, particularly land use impacts on water quality and quantity.

Formerly part of the award winning Shirley / Papanui Community Board, Yvonne is known for her ability to engage people in what then become very successful community projects.