THE CONSERVATION OF WETLANDS

SUMMARY Wetlands are important as one of the “life-support” systems of earth, and should therefore be conserved. This paper gives some of the reasons for wetland conservation and lists some of the problems facing wetlands in southern Africa. Those factors which control wetland development and functioning, the determinants, are listed. A strategy for the conservation of wetlands is outlined. This entails the following steps: Compilation of an inventory and data base Development of a classification of wetland types Setting up of a system for the conservation evaluation of wetlands Encouragement of sound management and rational use of wetlands Identification and initiation of the necessary research Procedure for the implementation of this conservation stategy.