Euston-Brown, D., Rathogwa, N & Richardson ... - DWA Home Page

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3. Methodology
This project used a combination of approaches to cover all the terms of reference. Two separate field-
sampling studies were undertaken to establish the effectiveness of existing clearing methods. The
first was the establishment of permanently marked sites in areas where Chromolaena odorata and/or
Lantana camara were being cleared in seven regions between Soutpansberg (Limpopo province) in the
north to Hluhluwe (KwaZulu-Natal) in the south. The second was the establishment of experimental
plots where different clearing treatments were applied and the response of the indigenous and
exotic vegetation was measured. The detailed methods and results of these studies are presented in
Appendix 1 and 2.
While conducting the above studies various insights were gained on the most promising approaches for
clearing these two species. Insights were gained through informal discussions with land managers that
have been dealing with these two invasive alien plants. In addition, a review of local and international
literature was done, and this together with the field experiments provided an overview of the problem
and provided the information necessary to develop the clearing protocols.
From the outset it was envisaged that a thorough understanding of the biology of the two species and
the functioning and dynamics of the ecosystem that they invade would be fundamental for developing
the most effective clearing methods and protocols.
Mesic savannas have a dense layer of
grasses and herbacious plants in the ground
layer combined with tall trees and other
woody plants.
Sweet grassveld vegetation is more open with
fewer trees. Trees are usually dominated by
thorny Acacia species.
Development of a clearing protocol based on ecological criteria for Mesic Savannas and Sweet Grassveld for the Working for Water Programme