5 ways to protect soil

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plant trees, shrubs, and flax to prevent erosion; •

fence riparian areas;

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restore and protect wetlands, especially ephemeral wetlands (soggy in autumn, winter, and spring, but dry in summer);

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remove or manage critical sources of pollution; •

switch to regenerative grazing practices to keep pasture long, avoid pugging, and raise soil fertility.

If all block owners in an area are educated and encouraged to do it, it has huge effects. That's why NZ Landcare Trust strives to work at a catchment level and encourages landowners to work together, says coordinator Nathan Burkepile.

“When you get everyone working toward the same goal, you get more done.”