In fact she is already tackling issues faced by five irrigation companies which have formed the collective to take a proactive role in the management of water from the lower Waitaki River.
The Dunedin-born and educated woman brings to the role an interest in resource management issues, backed by degrees from the University of Otago.
She is also studying to complete a master's degree in politics.
Ms Soal (31) already has her eyes on issues which irrigators will have to deal with in preserving their legal right to water and a reliable supply.
These include the Canterbury Water Management Strategy, national policy on freshwater management and future changes in the electricity industry, which dominates the Waitaki River from Lakes Tekapo, Ohau and Pukaki to the Waitaki dam.
Other issues include policy and planning decisions by regional and local government.
One of her roles will also be educating the public about the benefits of irrigation, particularly the impact on local and national economies.
"Irrigation is a huge economic driver for this district, making a significant contribution to the local economy," she said.
Ms Soal has a background in policy management, working as a policy adviser to the Ministry of Social Development for the area between the Rangitata River and Bluff before being appointed to the position with the irrigation collective.
She has a bachelor of laws and an honours degree in politics from the University of Otago and has worked at law firms in New Zealand and England.
