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The Otago Regional Council (ORC) has embarked on a pilot study within the Pleasant River catchment, leveraging advanced digital tools and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to combat the persistent flooding issues plaguing the region. This innovative approach, named “Wai i te reporepo, wai i te wao: Nature-based Solutions Study,” is set to pioneer a blend of traditional ecological knowledge and cutting-edge technology, setting a precedent for future environmental management across Otago.
Melanie White, ORC’s Project Delivery Specialist, emphasises the council’s commitment to safeguarding communities, livelihoods, and infrastructure through modern methods. “As a regional council, we continually seek new methodologies that can provide enhanced protection against natural disasters, particularly flooding, which is a frequent threat in our region,” White stated.
The project, fully funded by the Ministry for the Environment’s Essential Freshwater Fund, integrates digital technologies at each stage, from planning through execution to post-implementation monitoring. The goal is to utilise digital tools to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of NbS, such as wetland restoration and native reforestation, which naturally mitigate flood impacts.
A core component of the study is using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies. These digital tools are crucial for accurately mapping the catchment area, analysing environmental data, and tracking ecological changes over time. By identifying flood-prone zones and existing vegetation conditions, GIS enables precise targeting of interventions that maximise flood control and biodiversity conservation.
Simulation Models Predict Flooding ScenariosDigital simulation models are another vital tool in this project, allowing researchers to predict the outcomes of various NbS under different weather scenarios. These models can forecast how solutions like restoring wetlands or planting native species will perform regarding water absorption and flood prevention during significant rainfall events. This predictive power is instrumental in designing effective flood mitigation strategies tailored to Otago’s unique environmental conditions.
Managing such a multifaceted project requires sophisticated digital project management and collaboration tools. These systems facilitate seamless communication and coordination between the council, environmental experts, and the community. They also support document sharing and resource scheduling, ensuring the project remains on track and within budget.
ORC utilises digital engagement platforms to gather widespread community input and foster public support for the proposed NbS. These platforms enable the council to conduct surveys, hold virtual workshops, and manage public consultations effectively. This approach educates the community about the benefits of NbS and encourages active participation in the project’s development and implementation phases.
To make the project’s findings accessible and understandable to all stakeholders, ORC employs advanced digital visualisation tools. These include interactive maps, infographics, and dashboards that clearly illustrate the potential benefits of implementing NbS. Such visualisations help demystify complex data, making it easier for non-experts to understand the impact of various solutions on flood mitigation and environmental health.
Once NbS are in place, digital technologies continually monitor their effectiveness. Sensors installed in critical locations collect real-time data on water levels, soil moisture, and other environmental indicators. This data is crucial for assessing the performance of each solution and making necessary adjustments to optimise outcomes.
Melanie concludes, “The integration of digital technologies enhances our ability to manage natural disasters and ensures that our solutions are sustainable and adaptable to future environmental challenges. We invite the residents of Otago to engage with us as we advance this crucial work.”
By the end of 2025, following the comprehensive Feasibility and Engagement Studies, ORC plans to implement the most promising NbS more broadly across the region. The outcomes of this project are expected to significantly influence future environmental and civil defence strategies, showcasing the potential of combining traditional ecological practices with modern digital innovations.
