On a regenerative farm, everything is connected. Soil, water, plants, and animals work in tandem as part of a larger ecosystem, and wetlands are one of the most important pieces of that system. Restored waterways support biodiversity, naturally filter runoff, and create the conditions farmers need to raise high-quality lamb. When managed with care, wetlands become a cornerstone of regenerative farming.

Water Management, Soil Health, and Biodiversity

Wetlands are characterized as areas in nature where water naturally lingers just above or below the soil, or on the area’s surface. They’re found all across the globe, apart from Antarctica, and play a crucial role in each ecosystem they’re found in. Wetlands absorb excess rainfall during major weather events, like storms or hurricanes, then gradually release it back into the ecosystem. This helps to reduce flooding, prevent erosion, and maintain soil moisture during dry periods. Wetlands also filter runoff, which captures excess nutrients and sediments before they reach rivers or streams. This protects downstream ecosystems while enriching soils and supporting stronger, more resilient pastures.

Maintaining biodiversity is critical to any regenerative farm. Wetlands are able to provide habitats for native plants, insects, birds, and microorganisms, which help maintain a balanced ecosystem. Many species of endangered birds, like the Australasian bittern, are also entirely reliant on coastal wetlands for their survival. By protecting our wetlands, we protect the lives of so many different species of life, who in turn contribute to a vibrant and symbiotic ecosystem.

The Wetlands of Rangitoto

Rangitoto is just one of the many family farms Atkins Ranch partners within New Zealand, and its story is deeply shaped by a special connection to its wetlands. When James Hunter, steward of Rangitoto, returned to his family farm in the mid-1980’s, he decided to start a major project — creating a network of interlinked waterways. These waterways gave birth to Rangitoto’s vibrant wetlands, which are now host to a variety of plants and animals, thus turning the farm into a biodiverse haven. One of Hunter’s goals in the creation of these wetlands was to keep runoff out of the nearby Porongahau River. Thanks to the natural way in which wetlands work to manage excess water, Hunter has been able to do just that!

Rangitoto’s thriving wetlands directly influence the quality of the farm’s lamb as well. Wetlands lead to healthier grass, and healthier grass leads to healthier lamb. This symbiotic relationship between land and animal is at the heart of regenerative farming.

Investing in the Future

Wetlands play a significant role on a regenerative farm. By filtering excess water, improving soil health, and supporting biodiversity, wetlands improve a farm’s resilience to natural stressors while providing a vital habitat for the wildlife that depends on it. When paired with regenerative practices like rotational grazing, wetlands become a cornerstone of a healthier farming system that supports the land, the animals, and the future of the environment.