Managing natural resources

Natural resources are vital to our survival. Natural resources include soil; water resources; geological features and landscapes; native vegetation, native animals; other native organisms and ecosystems. The ecosystems we rely on every day are not infinite. While South Australia is rich in natural resources, our economic and environmental reliance on them is growing and this needs to be managed in a sustainable way.

DENR, in partnership with the Natural Resources Management (NRM) Council and the eight Natural Resources Management Boards, has a key responsibility for the management of natural resources in South Australia. Working closely with farmers, pastoralists, industry, communities, environmental organisations, and local government, we take an integrated approach to protecting and strengthening the state's natural resources.

The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 outlines the overarching goals of sustainable and prosperous natural resources management. The Regional Integration Plan Improving Natural Resource Management in South Australia (567kb pdf), released in 2010, further defines the roles of DENR, the NRM Council and Regional NRM Boards in delivering streamlined services and facilities.

The NRM Council is responsible for devising and implementing a statewide NRM plan. The Boards administer their own regional plans and have a strong focus on community engagement. DENR relies on the insight and local knowledge of the Council and Boards to help produce socially, economically and environmentally sustainable outcomes.

DENR’s natural resources management policy, planning and implementation are guided by the work of our scientists. Their advice and research informs decision making and helps DENR to connect with regional and industry stakeholders. Find out more about their work in sustainable land management, climate change and soil and land condition trends monitoring.

Find out more about how natural resources are managed in South Australia: