Plantation Forestry in South Africa and its Impact on Biodiversity and Water

SYNOPSIS It is apparent that much of the criticism of plantation forestry as a form of land-use is based on emotional bias rather than on hard evidence. The results of a perception survey are presented to support this supposition. Two accusations that are commonly levelled against forestry—namely that it leads to a serious reduction in biodiversity, and secondly that it uses a disproportionate amount of water—are debated and more reasoned views are presented. The need for research and monitoring to provide the factual evidence that decision makers need for the wise management of land-use options—including forestry—is highlighted.