| The Ruataniwha plains are a patchwork of diverse soils, ranging from heavy clays to gravels, from shallow to deep, and from waterlogged to excessively drained. Traditional pastoral agriculture is giving way to widespread intensification. Repeated cultivation and compaction from machinery means many paddocks lose their original structure or natural fertility. Careful management is essential for the land to sustain high levels of production. |  |
Twenty-nine soils are listed and described. Each has its own set of characteristics, and requires its own set of management practices. Information about rooting depth, water holding capacity, drainage, susceptibility to erosion and compaction are used to provide recommendations and management guidelines for cultivation, drainage and irrigation.