Bibliography: Land Degradation in South Africa project

Notes : Tables in file include: the extent of remaining natural vegetation in

the south-western Cape; alien tree infestation in the south-western Cape: the

twelve most widespread exotic species; rates of displacement of Cape flats

habitats by urbanisation; and conservation works actually built and subsidised

by the Department of Agriculture in the winter rainfall region.

Ref ID : 859

1414. Meadows, M.E. The southwestern Cape of South Africa. In: Land degradation

in Mediterranean environments of the world: nature and extent, causes and

solutions, edited by Conacher, A. and Sala, M.London:Wiley, 1998,p. 139-154.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : SOIL EROSION; LAND DEGRADATION; WESTERN CAPE

Ref ID : 1016

1415. Meadows, M.E., Baxter, A.J., and Adams, T. The late holocene vegetation

history of lowland fynbos, Verlorenvlei, Southwestern Cape Province, South

Africa. Historical Biology 9:47-59, 1994.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : PALAEOENVIRONMENTS; ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY; FYNBOS; SEDIMENTATION

Abstract : The late Quarternary vegetation history of fynbos, a sclerophyllous

shrubland of the south-western Cape Province of SA, has only recently begun to

be revealed by a series of pollen diagrams from mountain sites. Until now,

however, a reconstruction of the vegetation history of sites in lowland or

coastal fynbos communities has not been possible, principally because of an

apparent lack of suitable organic and fossil pollen-bearing sedimentary material

in such environments. The search for appropriate sediments has, however, now

revealed a sequence of pollen-rich deposits in the Verlorenvlei, a coastal lake

some 180 km north of Cape Town. The sediments accumulated during the last 5 500

years, although the record is not complete as a hiatus in sedimentation is

apparent. The sequence has been well radiocarbon dated. This has facilitated

a precise reconstruction of the late Holocene vegetation history. The area is

today characterised by a mosaic of different fynbos communities and has been

much disturbed by anthropogenic activites, especially during the last few

hundred years. The vegetation history may be compared with the picture which

has emerged for the Cederberg mountains to the east of the site, enabling

conclusions to be made about the relative roles of climatic change, sea-level

fluctuations and human activities in shaping the fynbos communities.

Ref ID : 888

1416. Meadows, M.E. and Meadows, K.F. Late quaternary vegetation history of the

Winterberg Mountains, eastern Cape, South Africa. South African Journal of

Science 84:253-259, 1988.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : EASTERN CAPE; PALAEOENVIRONMENTS; ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY; VEGETATION

CHANGE

Ref ID : 70

1417. Meadows, M.E., Milton, S.J., and Dean, W.R.J. Desertifikation im bereich

semiariden Karroo, Sudafrika. Geo-oko-dynamik 15(3):219-242, 1994.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : DESERTIFICATION ASSESSMENT; KAROO DESERTIFICATION; VEGETATION CHANGE;

VEGETATION DYNAMICS

Ref ID : 883

1418. Meadows, M.E. and Sugden, J.M. Late quaternary environmental changes in

the Karoo, South Africa. In: Geomorphological studies in southern Africa, edited

by Dardis, G.F. and Moon, B.P.Rotterdam:Balkema, 1988,p. 337-353.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : PALAEOENVIRONMENTS; KAROO DESERTIFICATION

Ref ID : 921

1419. Meadows, M.E. and Sugden, J.M. A vegetation history of the last 14 000

years on the Cederberg, south-western Cape Province. South African Journal of

Science 87:34-43, 1991.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : PALAEOENVIRONMENTS; WESTERN CAPE; FYNBOS; VEGETATION CHANGE;

MONITORING

Notes : Fossil pollen analysis of sediments from two vleis in the Cederberg,

southwestern Cape, is described. The analysis is supported by a modern pollen

monitoring programme and discriminant analysis is applied to these data to

enhance application to the fossil pollen material. Relatively little

environmental change is apparent over the last 14 500 years. Subtle changes in

the composition and distribution of fynbos communities on the Cederberg have

occurred and may have some bearing on plant species richness. Human-induced

disturbance, predating the arrival of European colonists, is due to changes in

burning regimes by the Khoi-San. The history of Widdringtonia cedarbergensis is

discussed; the recent decline in pollen frequencies is consistent with the idea

of human exploitation of the tree.

Ref ID : 2544

1420. Mei, P. "Multi-directional communication" for irrigated community

gardening. ARDRI News , 1998.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : IRRIGATION; CISKEI; SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS; AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

Notes : The purpose of the study was to provide guidance to a community using

irrigated gardening projects. The research method consisted of community visits

and discussion. The problem of a water leakage and consequent low pressure,

which resulted from deteriorated irrigation infrastructure, was experienced by

all projects except at Roxeni, where a new water supply system had been

installed less than a year prior to the study taking place. Gardeners had

produced crops, which they could consume with their households, sell, or give

away, thereby strengthening their social networks. Gardening kept the elderly

at the projects fit and provided them with a purpose for life. The garden was

the centre of social contacts where daily news was exchanged and old friendships

were rekindled. The community gardeners only depended on external sources of

financial assistance but provided human resources voluntarily. This article is

obtainable from ARDRI, University of Fort Hare. See also ID ref. no. 2339.

Ref ID : 2523

1421. Mei, P., Nompozolo, S., and Van Averbeke, W. Public, semi-public and non-

governmental extension services in the Eastern Cape province. ARDRI

Report.Anonymous , 1997.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : EASTERN CAPE; AID; TRANSKEI; CISKEI; AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT;

AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION; PRODUCTION POTENTIAL; RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Notes : Personal interviews were used for the study. The study found that

extension services are faced with several constraints, which result in poor

delivery of services to the farmers. The most dominant constraints include

access to transport, extension aids, farmer handouts, reference works, training,

expert assistance, research results, and researchers. The study also found that

the services of the extension staff which are most commonly in demand by the

rural farming sector are: advice and information on agricultural practices;

organising inputs and land preparation; administrative assistance to farmers;

training of farmers; farm planning; demarcation of residential sites; erection

of fences; and conflict resolution. This report is obtainable from ARDRI. See

also ID ref. no. 2339.

Ref ID : 1309

1422. Meissner, H.S., Hofmeyr, H.S., Van Rensburg, W.J., and Pienaar, J.P.

Classification of livestock for realistic prediction of substitution values in

terms of a biologically defined large stock unit.Anonymous Pretoria:Department

of Agriculture. 175:1-40, 1983. The lack of suitable standards for livestock

production in SA was inductive towards the collection and processing of data

with the objective of establishing a meaningful classification of livestock in

terms of their requirements for various production functions and their voluntary

intake. In this publication the technicalities, assumptions, arguments,

voluminous data, etc., which were required to develop a more realistic and

scientifically sound classification of livestock are presented. A Standard

Large Stock Unit is defined in terms of metabolizable energy, and practical

conversion factors are tabulated for various classes of farm and game animals in

terms of this Large Stock Unit.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; ENERGY

Ref ID : 1095

1423. Meldrum, A. Drought withers southern Africa. New Ground :33-34, 1992.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : DROUGHT; ZIMBABWE

Notes : This is an article chronicling the story of Maida Mavunga, from

Zimbabwe's Mhondoro rural area, whose maize crop is not even good for cattle

feed. She continues to live in hope for a better yield next year. This

condition is not much better elsewhere in Africa. The article suggests that more

than 70% of Africa's over 500 million people are subsistence farmers and more

than 70% of Africa's food is grown by women. The cost of importing and

distributing food will impede the efforts of Zambia and Zimbabwe to restructure

their economies.

Ref ID : 322

1424. Menne, T.C. A review of work done in the Union of South Africa on the

measurement of run-off and erosion. Third Inter-African Soils Conference

C.C.T.A.Anonymous Department of Water Affairs. 4, 1959.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : SOIL EROSION; SEDIMENTATION; RUNOFF

Ref ID : 323

1425. Menne, T.C. and Kriel, J.P. Determination of sediment load in rivers and

the deposition of sediment in storage resevoirs.Anonymous Pretoria:Department of

Water Affairs. Technical Report 3, 1959.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : SOIL EROSION; SEDIMENTATION; HYDROLOGY

Ref ID : 897

1426. Mentis, M.T. Evaluation of the wheel-point and step-point methods of veld

condition assessment. Proceedings of the Grassland Society of southern Africa

16:89-94, 1981.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : VELD CONDITION

Abstract : A number of aspects of a technique recently developed to assess the

agro-ecological condition of veld were evaluated by 4 independent observers.

Measuring the veld composition score yielded relatively repeatable results with

a 95% confidence limit of +/- 6.43 units for any single estimate which may range

from 0 to 100 units. The step-point method yielded results on percentage veld

composition and on veld composition score which did not differ in precision or

in absolute amount from those obtained using the wheel-point apparatus.

Adoption of the step-point method in preference to the wheel-point method saves

in equipment and manpower, and renders the technique usable by extension

officers and farmers who normally do not have a wheel-point apparatus. However,

the step-point method does not provide an estimate of basal cover, and perhaps

should not be used on uneven terrain or bushy veld. Using a circular-quadrat

3,5 cm in diameter yielded a more precise index of basal cover than did the

standard method using a point-quadrat 1mm in diameter. However, there are

disadvantages in using the relatively large quadrat. Possible bias introduced

into determining percentage species composition and composition score by using

the nearest plant method were negligeble.

Ref ID : 1063

1427. Mentis, M.T. Towards objective veld condition assessment. Proceedings of

the Grassland Society of southern Africa 18:77-80, 1983.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : VELD CONDITION; MODELS

Abstract : The deprivation of explicit goals and the quantification of the

degree of their attainment are essential for purposeful management. Present

methods in regard to the grazing use of South African veld may be impoved in

objectivity, efficiency and generality by resort to methods of multivariate

anaysis. Meaningful interpretation of the results of field assessment is not

possible without a compatible model of the dynamic interaction between plants

and herbivores. Such a model includes a zero isocline for proportional species

composition of the veld in relation to grazing intensity, and a zero isocline

for herbivores in relation to proportional species composition of the veld.

Ref ID : 1872

1428. Mentis, M.T. Optimising stocking rate under commercial and subsistence

pastoralism. Journal of the Grasslands Society of Southern Africa 1(1):20-24,

1984.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : STOCKING RATE; MODELS; AID

Abstract : Hopes for a single criterion of overstocking are forlorn. Livestock

may be kept for any of many purposes, and the stocking rate optimal for one is

not necessarily so for another. Conflicts might be resolved by (1) recognizing

the likely reasons for which livestock is kept, (2) identifying the respective

functions, (3) devising appropriate strategic models of veld and herbivores, and

(4) developing algorithms which aid decisions on at what rate to stock in given

circumstances. This approach is illustrated for commercial and subsistence

systems in SA. In terms of the model, it pays (in the short term) to overgraze.

There is apparently no technical solution to this problem.

Ref ID : 1801

1429. Mentis, M.T. Conserving rangeland resources. Journal of the Grasslands

Society of Southern Africa 2(3):27-31, 1985.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : CONSERVATION

Abstract : The aims of the paper are to (1) identify the properties of

conservation, (2) explain its poor implementation, and (3) propose remedies.

The main characteristics of conservation are that it (1) is altruistic, (2)

expresses a value judgment, and (3) is literally non-falsifiable. Conservation

is not widely practised because (1) its altruism, being non-Darwinian, will not

be performed spontaneously, (2) there is a mistaken attempt to consider

phenomena absolutely rather than recognise the value-driven and theory-laden

nature of all human activities, (3) its ethic, if taken literally, cannot be

written operationally, and (4) there is a dependence on poorly-falsifiable

ecological theories (e.g. neo-Clementsianism). Proposed remedies are to (1)

define our ultimate frames of reference, (2) enthuse the public of the chosen

core-values, (3) develop operational conservation goals, (4) assess the degree

of goal-attainment, (5) try to correct departures, and (6) align individual and

societal interests by manipulating market-forces.

Ref ID : 172

1430. Mentis, M.T. Developing techniques to detect vegetation changes in South

Africa. South African Journal of Science 85:86-88, 1989.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : VEGETATION CHANGE; MONITORING; DESERTIFICATION ASSESSMENT

Abstract : Vegetation change in South Africa is widely alleged. There are few,

if any, data sets that can stand up to scrutiny however. In an effort to remedy

this, a group has been assembled to develop an informal school in vegetation

monitoring, and to generate prescriptions for the design and execution of

studies to detect vegetation change. The school has identified specific

challenges and common weaknesses of vegetation monitoring. The requirements for

statistically credible and cost-effective monitoring are very stringent. An

expert system has been developed to guide decisions in the planning of

monitoring studies in grassland and savanna.

Ref ID : 1088

1431. Mentis, M.T., Grossman, D., Hardy, M.B., O'Connor, T.G., and O'Reagain,

P.J. Paradigm shifts in South African range science, management and

administration. South African Journal of Science 85:684-687, 1989.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : VELD MANAGEMENT; MODELS; LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; GRASSLAND; FLOODS;

DROUGHT; FIRE

Abstract : The dynamics of South African rangelands have classically been

interpreted according to equilibrium models of which succession theory is the

archetype. The state of a rangeland has been measured by its plant species

composition, on the grounds that this reflects the seral stage, the degree of

recent retrogressive impact by pastoral use, and the quality of the rangeland

for livestock production. Some observations do not accord with this classical

view. Non-equilibrium (and especially event-driven) models have relevance. The

state of arid and semi-arid grasslands, that cover most of South Africa, can be

viewed as having unique histories determined by individual combinations and

sequences of events involving floods, droughts, fire, grazing and other factors.

Despite the expenditure of considerable state funds and effort, and application

of conventional theory, range condition and economics in South Africa are in a

parlous state. Improved understanding is required of which models of rangeland

functioning apply to what circumstances. Methods of assessing rangeland

condition might be of practical use if they incorporated the value of grazing

land in exchange. Even with these improvements, it is unlikely that a high

predictive ability will emerge soon. Without such knowledge it is hardly

defensible for a government to control the use of agricultural resources, and

the prices of agricultural commodities.

Ref ID : 1042

1432. Mentis, M.T. and Tainton, N.M. Stability, resilience and animal production

in continuously grazed sour grassveld. Proceedings of the Grassland Society of

southern Africa 16:37-43, 1981.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : VEGETATION DYNAMICS; GRAZING EFFECTS; LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION; VELD

CONDITION; MODELS; SOUTHERN AFRICA; STOCKING RATE

Abstract : The Jones-Sandland model, popularly used in southern Africa, may be

criticised because it ignores firstly the long-term effects of grazing intensity

on the acceptability and productivity of pasture or veld, and secondly possible

discontinuities in the animal performance - stocking rate relationship. A

mathematical model is developed to investigate these issues in sour grassveld.

From the model and independent grazing trials, it is concluded that there is a

critical stocking rate above which grazing intensity induces veld deterioration

and change in the animal performance - stocking rate relationship. In veld in

excellent condition this critical stocking rate coincides with that maximising

animal production per ha. However, on poor veld the critical stocking rate is

less than the rate yielding maximal animal production per ha. Degraded sour

grassveld which is being used for animal production is therefore resilient -

grazing intensity is likely often to exceed the threshold below which veld

recovery is possible. Regarding discontinuities, these do not occur. However,

there is a small range of stocking rate over which the rate of change in animal

performance is extreme in relation to the rate of change in stocking rate.

Adopting the Jones-Sandland model would thus yield highly variable results

between replicates and seasons.

Ref ID : 1023

1433. Meyer, E.M. and Van der Merwe, I. National grazing strategy. 1987.

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES; VELD MANAGEMENT; SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE;

POLICY; LAND USE; POPULATION; AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION; PRODUCTION POTENTIAL

Notes : This paper follows the White Paper on Agricultural Policy, 1984, where

reference is made to the alarming deterioration of natural grazing. A warning

is issued that poor land use and excessive exploitation of the natural

agricultural resources will eventually lead to a reduction in the standard of

living and the quality of life of the population as a whole.To meet the

challenges of an increase in fibre and food production it is important that

optimum resource utilisation (ORU) must be practiced, which includes the

following 3 principles: agricultural production may not be carried out at the

expense of natural agricultural resources; agricultural production must occur in

harmony with the natural environment factors; and agricultural production must

take place on an economic basis. Against this background, the National Grazing

Strategy was announced in 1985, the broad objective of which was: "to use,

develop and manage the natural and cultivated pastures in the RSA in such a way

that the present generation gains the greatest sustained benefit, while the

production potential must be retained to satisfy the needs and aspirations of

future generations." The implementation of this strategy was seen to have the

advantage of a formulated plan of action with a scientific basis. It contained

the important elements of problem identification, objectives, a working calender

to achieve objectives and an evaluation of the progress. This strategy aimed to

promote co-ordination and to make it easier to determine priorities.

Ref ID : 324

1434. Meyer, H.P. Vegetation in the conservation of soil. Publicity series

no.159.Anonymous Anonymous Department of Agriculture and Forestry. , 1945.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : SOIL EROSION; VELD MANAGEMENT; VELD CONDITION

Ref ID : 808

1435. Meyer, R., Duvenhage, A.W.A., Coetsee, V.d.A., and Weaver, J.M.C. The

evaluation and development of geophysical techniques for characterising the

extent and degree of groundwater pollution.Anonymous Pretoria:Water Research

Commission. 267/1/94, 1994.

Reprint : Not in File,

Keywords : HYDROLOGY; POLLUTION

Ref ID : 71

1436. Meyer, T.C., Immelman, W.F., and Vorster, L.F. Use of multivariate

techniques to monitor vegetation change in the Arid Karoo. Bulletin of the

Grassland Society of southern Africa 5:25, 1994. (Abstract)

Reprint : In File,

Keywords : MONITORING; VEGETATION CHANGE; VEGETATION DYNAMICS; DESERTIFICATION

ASSESSMENT; VELD MANAGEMENT; VELD CONDITION; SAVANNA; EASTERN CAPE; GRASSLAND;

STOCKING RATE; MODELS

Notes : Paper abstract, GSSA Congress 29. In file.

Abstract : The development of veld management strategies requires a knowledge of

veld condition, vegetation dynamics and grazing capacity. To ensure optimal

utilisation of veld, it is essential to quantify the condition of the veld. The

ecological index method was developed to evaluate veld condition in the Karoo.

Similar techniques have been developed in other biomes. Recent developments in

other biomes concentrated on improving existing techniques. No similar

developments have been reported for the Karoo. Foran and co-workers have

develped a procedure for vegetation monitoring in arid rangeland, using

multivariate techniques. This procedure was successfully used in the

determination of veld condition trend in the semi-arid savannas of the eastern

Cape and the climatic climax grasslands of South Africa. This paper examines