A review of the contribution of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa to understanding conservation and wildlife research and management in southern Africa

Abstract

We identified 440 papers and 81 book reviews published chronologically by the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) over 60 years, determined as making a contribution to understanding the drivers and response variables affecting the management and use of grassland and savanna rangelands in southern Africa as they relate to wildlife conservation and research. Established drivers and response variables considered critical in determining savanna and grassland structure and function in the wildlife context were used as discussion themes. Papers, based on title, keywords (where given) and author experience, were categorised as directly or indirectly relevant to the wildlife industry. Properties that were largely undisturbed or previously used for commercial production were included. The review yielded 106 papers that contribute directly to the wildlife industry and 334 from which principles have been adopted and adapted, largely from livestock systems. Including the book reviews, a total of 521 Journal contributions were accessed. The GSSA’s contribution, in the form of ‘wise use’ principles of sustainable management developed over 60 years, will increase as African economies exploit opportunities to utilise wildlife resources to the benefit of their citizens.