Soil and landscape processes in the restoration of rangelands.

Abstract

A rational analytical approach to the restoration of degraded rangelands is proposed in which degradation is described in terms of loss or diminution of plant habitat favourability. The approach recognizes that fertile patches or zones are maintained by the action and interaction of abiotic and biotic transfer processes. The identity and character of these processes can be deduced from data derived from integrated vegetation and landscape surveys. Ecosystem function and disfunction can be identified and geographically referenced by this procedure. Finally, restoration practices are aimed at reconstituting the landscape processes 'normal' to the ecosystem in question.