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