Nqutu Veld Report
To characterize the natural resources, optimize agricultural potential and enhance productivity through sustainable natural resource management in KZN
Province of KwaZulu-Natal
To identify, monitor and research on current land use, veld condition and land degradation in the Province on a scientifically researched basis
To provide training in natural resource utilization and land assessment to enhance economically and environmentally sustainable agriculture
Current projects aim to integrate agricultural technology development with sustainable resource utilization
To assess current agricultural land use and agricultural potential of KwaZulu-Natal, as well as to monitor changes in the natural resource base, critical to sound and economically viable development of the agricultural resources for sustainable production and food security in the Province. Satellite imagery is analyzed, ground-truthed and interpreted to provide such information to clients.
This program serves to provide ready access to the natural resource databases for the Province, to empower clients and extension personnel to optimize potential and effect appropriate land use management systems to achieve greater productivity and food security while maintaining a sound resource base.
The resource database does not have local (farm) level soil survey information readily available for the Province and is currently scanning and undertaking soil surveys to fill this very crucial gap in the existing Bio-resource database.
Land degradation mapping and alien plant invasions are being undertaken with satellite imagery and verified by ground surveys.
Land use planning and soil surveys are undertaken for various clients on request and the data is added to the BRP to ensure improved accuracy of information.
NAME |
RANK |
TELEPHONE |
|
Felicity Mitchell |
Scientific Manager |
033-3559386 |
felicity.mitchell@kzndae.gov.za |
Jacobus Botha |
Production Scientist |
033-3559391 |
cobus.botha@kzndae.gov.za |
Clement Adjorlolo |
Production Scientist |
033-3559390 |
clement.adjorlolo@kzndae.gov.za |
Michelle Keith |
Production Scientist |
033-3559395 |
m.cole@kzndae.gov.za |
Janet Taylor |
Production Scientist |
033-3559212 |
janet.taylor@kzndae.gov.za |
Dumisani Mashele |
Scientific Technician |
033-3559389 |
dumisani.mashele@kzndae.gov.za |
Stephenie Hoskins |
Administration Clerk |
033-3559505 |
stephenie.hoskins@kzndae.gov.za |