Factors affecting changes in erosion status in the Swaziland Middleveld

At sample locations in the Swaziland Middleveld comparison of erosion severity class at two dates (1972 and 1990) shows where the incidence of erosion has decreased (stabilising sites) or increased (destabilising sites). The changes in erosion status are analysed in relation to on-site changes in vegetation, land use, path density, settlement density and land management practice (including soil conservation measures). The results show that it is impossible to identify simple cause and effect relationships. Criticisms of the methodology are presented. More research is recommended on the processes and mechanisms which influence the observed trends in erosion severity.