R.G. Oellermann, D.C. Kotze, J.R. Klug, M.A.G. Darroch 1
Natural wetlands perform important ecological and hydrological functions, making it imperative that they be correctly managed. Commercial farmers in the KwaZulu-Natal and Orange Free State provinces of South Africa were surveyed to assess the management practices applied to privately owned natural wetlands used for livestock production. Study sites which exhibited no obvious erosion degradation effects from livestock (beef, sheep and dairy) grazing were chosen. Most wetlands were stocked more heavily than surrounding rangeland (up to 230% of the recommended norm) due to higher wetland forage yields caused by wetlands having less moisture stress and higher fertility. More research on wetland degradation processes is, however, required before such higher stocking rates can be recommended for wetland areas. Wetlands were grazed in particular during spring, when there was a critical lack of forage on surrounding rangeland. Wetland forage was reportedly of similar or better quality than surrounding rangeland at the time of grazing. Excess wetness and a decline in forage quality through the growing season made many wetland areas, especially marsh zones, unsuitable for use in late summer. Wetland zones with intermediate wetness had the highest grazing capacities, while the incidence of diseases was greatest in wetter zones. Most wetlands were burned annually in early spring to remove standing plant litter and to maintain plant vigour. Spring burning seems to have the least negative effects on the wetland's natural functions and forage production ability (few animals breed at this time of the year and most plants are still dormant). Information on appropriate livestock grazing management practices applied to natural wetlands could be incorporated into farm extension programmes to help promote sustainable future wetland use in South Africa.
