Gisborne Forest Fire Dams
Explore Project
Fire Fighting Dams
Capacity
Forestry
Service
1000+ SQM
Reduced Emissions
2026
Year
Overview
Process
Forestry blocks in the Gisborne region face a recurring risk: limited access to stored water during periods of high fire danger. Natural catchments draw down over summer, and unlined ponds lose volume to seepage exactly when reserves are needed most. The client required a purpose-built fire dam that could retain a guaranteed volume of water year-round, sit reliably in the forest, and meet the practical demands of remote forestry access. Water loss through the base and embankments was the core problem to solve.
Results
GR Environmental designed and installed a 1.5mm HDPE geomembrane lining system across the dam, creating a watertight barrier that effectively eliminates seepage. Our crew handled final site preparation, panel layout, welding, and testing to verify weld integrity across every seam, with full handover documentation provided on completion. The lined fire dams now store in excess of 2 millions litres of dedicated suppression water, giving the operation a secure, low-maintenance reserve that supports rapid response and protects surrounding forestry blocks.
