SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS ON THE TROPICAL PEAT SWAMP FORESTS OF MAPUTALAND, SOUTHERN AFRICA

摘要

The Tropical Peat Swamp Forests (TPSFs) of Maputaland are one of the most unique and rare wetland types in the southern African region. Farming of these peatlands is impacting negatively on the long-term survival of these systems as well as potentially leading to the eventual failing of these crops. Despite the high conservation value of these systems and the great threats that they face, there is still a lack of knowledge on basic structure, functioning and composition of TPSFs and how they are used and affected by different land-use practices. A project was initiated in 2003 by the IMCG to address this lack of knowledge. It has the following aims: 1. Enhance knowledge on ecosystem functioning and biodiversity of TPSFs. 2. Elaboration of wise use management practices for TPSFs, based on the evaluation of current status (land use, values and functions) as well as on the needs of the human population of Maputaland. 3. Raising awareness concerning the above wise use practices. 4. Regional capacity building Implementation of the wise use principles in a pilot area in collaboration with local communities. To date, field work has been undertaken, with the main focus around the Kosi Bay Lakes in South Africa, on the border with Mocambique. Sites were described within swamp forest under a variety of states, including pristine forest, old disturbed forest, recently disturbed swamp forest and currently cultivated. At each site, characteristics such as plant species composition, peat depth, tree cover and litter cover, as well as land-use practices were recorded. A survey of farmers cultivating in the swamp forests was also undertaken using semi-structured interviews. In addition, interviews were held with key stakeholders from a variety of different organizations involved in Kosi Bay. Based on these findings and the key issues it highlights, a pilot area will be selected to implement wise use principles, in collaboration with local communities.