Application of veld management in South Africa ‐ an analysis of progress

The widespread deterioration of veld in South Africa necessitates an analysis of the reasons for this serious state of affairs. Although approximately 34 per cent of farms have the facilities to apply conservation farming, less than 10 per cent of farmers apply the recommended veld management systems. The reasons for poor acceptance of systems may be grouped as: (a) economic pressure, (b) complacency, (c) ineffective extension and (d) unacceptable recommendations. Evidence is presented which indicates that all of these factors play a role in the present veld management position.