Monitoring of the vegetation around artificial watering points (windmills) in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park

Abstract

Vegetation changes around artificial watering points were monitored in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park from 1978 to 1989. Both rainfall and grazing influenced the vegetation but rainfall appeared to be the more significant factor. The above-average rainfall during the years preceding 1978 contributed to a relatively high basal cover in 1978. Since 1978, however, below-average rainfall was recorded resulting in a decline in basal cover, presence, frequency and density of most of the plant species. It seems likely that a wet cycle commenced in 1988, which is reflected in higher rainfall and an increase in basal cover, presence, and density. Some species maintained a relatively constant presence, some increased, and some declined during the study period. The monitoring is being continued.