Ecosystem management - Masa Mara
An example of an ecosystem that is actively managed to balance the needs of humans and the need for conservation
Ecosystem
primarily a savannah ecosystem, divided by the main mara river
close to the river there are rich grass land and woodland
Further from the river are open plains with scatted shrubs
Farming
Used by local tribes for livestock grazing
traditional methods of farming known as semi-nomadic
Grazing is now limited to arears on the edge of the reserve as local tribes are prevented from entering
Cultivation
Cultivation has increased in recent years
As grassland has been converted into cropland natural vegetation is removed
nutrients in the soil are used up over time which lead to a reliance on fertilisers for effective crop growth
Ecotourism
Masai mara relies on tourism for most of its economic input
Tourism directed towards natural environments
helps support conservation
a development that helps to reduce the impact that tourism has on naturally beautiful environments
Key Principles
Ensure that tourism dose not exploit the natural environment or local communities
consult and engage with local communities on planning developments
ensure that infrastructure improvements benefit local people as well as visitors
however can lead to soile erosion due to repeated use of hiking trails and cars
conservation
a number of research projects are being undertaken these include: Michigan state university, studying the behaviour and physiology of the predator spotted hyena
play an important role in the conservation of endangered species