Conservation

Conservation Planning

The primary aim of conservation planning is to provide scientific information and advice required by KZN Wildlife to achieve its overall vision, mission and policies.

The branch coordinates scientific research and development planning within KZN Wildlife. Emphasis is placed on gaining a good understanding of biodiversity and the factors influencing its distribution and status, including those of a social, economic or developmental nature.

Strategies are developed and advice given so that appropriate measures may be applied to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Extensive collaborative networks have been created with other institutions to augment our research capacity, and wherever possible external funds are solicited.

Research Disciplines

The following disciplines are pursued in the terrestrial, freshwater, estuarine and marine environments throughout KwaZulu-Natal:

• Ecology and ecosystem management
• Species conservation biology
• Landscape ecology and GIS mapping
• Climate change adaptation research
• Invasive species management
• Marine and coastal research

Our Divisions

Biodiversity Research

Biodiversity Research assists with the development of corporate and provincial conservation strategies and provides information underpinning these strategies. Research focuses on:

• Species population monitoring and trends
• Habitat assessment and restoration
• Threatened species recovery programs
• Ecosystem services valuation