Animal pests can undo years of hard work if they’re not tackled properly — and once you think you’ve done enough, you’re probably only halfway there.

In this episode, host Sarah Thorne kicks off the animal pest control conversation with Dipton sheep farmer Peter McDonald, who shares what it really took to protect 56 hectares of native bush on his Southland farm. From deer fencing and helicopter control to funding, neighbour coordination, and long-term thinking, this is a practical, honest look at what works when it comes to looking after land and water.

Key Takeways

•  Why understanding what you already have on your land is the first step before spending time or money
• What coordinated pest control with neighbours actually looks like in practice — and why it matters
• Why long-term commitment, not quick wins, makes the biggest difference for land, waterways, and future generations

If animal pests are creeping into your catchment or farm, this episode will help you think differently — press play and hear what’s possible when you go further than you thought you needed to.

#Southlandfarming #catchmentgroups #ThrivingSouthland,#communityprojects #SouthlandNZ #animalpestcontrol #landandwater #biodiversity

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