In Otago, soil health, contamination, pollution, and pest management are intertwined with changing land use dynamics.

The growth of conservation areas, dairy farming, and horticulture in Otago helps shape the region. Although wetlands are drained and forests cleared for farming, these changes highlight how important soil is for food production, maintaining environmental balance, and supporting biodiversity.

The Otago Regional Council works with community groups and individual to ensure we are using our land wisely. We work together to manage how land is developed based on soil type, as well as keep an eye on pollution, contamination and pests. Spatial mapping also plays a crucial role in guiding resource management decisions, contributing significantly to Otago's environmental resilience and sustainability goals.