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Soil
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Our land is essential for Otago’s economy, environment, and culture.
It is the foundation of our farms, helps clean our water and store carbon, while also providing spaces for recreation. The Otago Regional Council keeps track of soil health, manages land development, and collects data to make sure land is used wisely. This work helps protect these resources for the future and supports our cultural traditions and recreational activities.
Soil in Otago
Otago’s diverse landscapes, geology and climates have formed a variety of soils; from coastal volcanic based soils and semiarid soils to acidic podzols and carbon-rich organic soils. Learn more about our soils, where they can be found and how they behave.
Soil health monitoring
Aotearoa New Zealand has a national monitoring program that acts as a warning system for soil risks. In Otago, we monitor soils using seven indicators to assess risks and protect soil health. Using standardized methods, ORC scientists check key areas and report data that helps inform decisions and policies.
Soil and land data
Soil microclimate stations across the region collect data on soil moisture, soil temperature and rainfall to support land management and modelling. Learn why we collect this information, what it means and how to explore the data.
Managing soil
There are a few important things to focus on to maintain or improve your soil. Learn what these are and what you can do to maximise your soil health.
Residential earthworks
Earthworks are a necessary part of preparing land for residential development, but if the right practices aren’t used, soil can be lost to water bodies.
Reports and publications - soil
Reports, publications and memos focusing on land use, environmental impacts, and mitigation in Otago, especially regarding water quality and nutrient management, offering insights for sustainable land practices.
