Vegetation changes in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve Complex from 1937 to 1975

The structural changes that have occurred in the vegetation of the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve Complex have been quantified using 1937, 1960 and 1975 aerial photographs, and related to the management history. A progressive increase in both tree and shrub cover has occurred. In the short term, both intensive woody plant removal operations and controlled burning applications appear to be effective in retarding the rate of encroachment by shrubs and trees. However, neither was effective in the long term. Significant reductions in tall grass cover attributed to sustained overgrazing have occurred.