Through the Sustainable Land project, Council works directly with landowners across the Nelson region to support sustainable land management. The project focuses on:
- improving soil health
- enhancing native biodiversity
- protecting streams and waterways by reducing sediment and pollution from land‑use activities
- Council helps by providing practical advice and technical expertise, and by supplying appropriate trees suited to each site and its management goals.
Choosing the Right Trees
For biodiversity enhancement, native trees are often the best option. They are well adapted to Nelson conditions and provide important food and habitat for native wildlife, including birds, lizards, and invertebrates.
In some situations — particularly on erosion‑prone land — fast‑growing exotic species, such as poplars and non‑seeding willows, may be more effective. These species can:
- stabilise soil quickly
- reduce erosion
- provide shelter and fodder for stock during drought periods
Guidance and Resources for Landowners
Landowners can access a range of guidance and resources to support informed decision‑making, including:
Council also provides access to presentations and resources, covering topics such as:
Watch: Video interviews with local landowners
They highlight the challenges and joys of land restorations as well as the difficulties, and the considerable commitment required.
We hope these videos will help tell the story of what we’re doing to look after Nelson’s land and water, and the gains that can be made for our local native habitats and biodiversity along the way.
