Physiographic Mapping
In 2023 Living Landscapes engaged Land and Water Science to validate Physiographic Maps for the South Canterbury OTOP Zone.
Presentation from Land and Water Science
Physiographic factors (climate, soils and geology) are the dominant control of variation in water quality and greenhouse gases emissions. This means risks vary significantly from farm to farm and even from one part of a paddock to another.
To better understand this we have produced 2 types of Physiographic Maps:
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Reduction/Oxidation which show soils and aquifers more or less likely to denitrify.
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Terrain Ruggedness which shows potential for erosion or surface flows at paddock scale.
Transfer Pathway
Physiographic Maps help us understand the path nitrate, phosphate, E.coli, and sediment follow from where they are generated to water (the Transfer Pathway).
Return for effort is usually better, the nearer to the source an intervention is applied. For example, it can be much cheaper to minimise sediment loss through changes to cultivation practice, than trying to catch it in detention dams.
Why Physiographic Maps?
Unlike regulations, what lies beneath our feet does not change – if we understand this we can:
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Re-focus the conversation and understanding of environmental management and a way which brings initiative back to farmers.
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Create a mentality of controlling effects rather than reacting to regulation (What is the actual issue or effect I am trying to control?).
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Better support catchment groups to achieve control over environmental and social outcomes and be sustainable in the long term.
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Applying physiographic information (Winter Grazing Workshop with DINZ)
How to Access Physiographic Maps
Physiographic Maps (farm or catchment) are provided to Living Landscapes members in the OTOP Zone on request. Layers can also be downloaded by members. Visit our Get Involved page for more information on how to become a member.
More information on the physiographic approach:
https://landscapedna.org/