Tunnel House Refuge
Tunnel Houses are retrofitted structures designed to create refugia within hard infrastructure, such as culverts. They disrupt laminar flow, reduce water velocity, and provide shaded areas, facilitating fish passage and improving habitat conditions.
In-Stream Refuge Solution for Culvert Fish Passage
ATS Environmental Tunnel House Refuges create sheltered rest areas within culverts and channels, supporting fish passage through high-velocity environments. These lightweight structures disrupt laminar flow, reduce water velocity in specific zones, and provide essential shade and refuge for migrating fish.
Made from durable UV-stable polyethylene, Tunnel Houses install easily in new or existing culverts using standard fixings. Available in customisable lengths with 360mm width and 140mm height, they can be placed horizontally or vertically to create optimal refuge zones. Compatible with other fish passage solutions for comprehensive culvert remediation across New Zealand waterways.
Tunnel House Specifications & Features
Provides In-Stream Refuge
Creates sheltered, low-velocity zones within culverts and channels where fish can rest during upstream migration. Essential for supporting passage through long culvert structures.
Lightweight Durable Construction
Made from UV-stable polyethylene designed for easy handling and long-term performance. Robust construction withstands flowing water conditions with minimal maintenance requirements.
Reduces Flow Velocity
Slows water flow in specific zones, making it easier for fish to navigate through high-velocity culverts. Creates varied flow conditions that accommodate different fish species and swimming abilities.
Customisable Length Options
Custom lengths available to fit various culvert sizes and configurations. Standard 360mm width and 140mm height suit most culvert applications.
Disrupts Laminar Flow
Breaks up uniform flow patterns to create complex hydraulic conditions. Improves habitat quality by adding flow diversity within otherwise monotonous culvert environments.
Simple Retrofit Installation
Easy installation using standard fixings with minimal disruption to existing structures. Compatible with both new construction and retrofit projects in culverts and weirs.
