An approach to the sustainable management of the South Island tussock grasslands

Abstract

The objective of this study is to outline one approach to enhancing the sustainable management of the South Island tussock grasslands. To achieve this objective, two themes are examined. First, this study analyses why the tussock grasslands have degraded under pastoral use despite legislation and policy designed to protect the vegetation and soils of the mountain lands. This study explores the role of the New Zealand State in tussock grassland management and examines the economic growth ideology which is shown to dominate tussock grassland institutions and land use. Through the use of a case study area, the Ahuriri River Catchment, it is shown that financial incentives designed to promote agricultural production significantly influenced the use and management of the tussock grasslands in this area. It is demonstrated that the total livestock load of the survey area increased by 45% between 1977 and 1989 as a result of development incentives. This study shows that this stocking increase has negatively impacted upon vegetation and soil parameters which are demonstrated to be indicative of grassland degradation.

Second, this study examines the notion of sustainable management which is established as a multi-dimensional concept encompassing ecological, social, and economic principles. The need for all of these principles to be incorporated into decision making processes is emphasised. Enhancing participation in decision making processes is examined as one approach to integrating all three dimensions of sustainability into tussock grassland management. A decision making framework for the management of the tussock grasslands is outlined through which a broad range of individuals and groups could participate to promote the diversity of values embodied in the concept of sustainable management. The purpose of this framework is to ensure that each of the dimensions of sustainable management is incorporated into decision making processes, but that no value or interest is unduly dominating. This framework is based upon the hierarchy of institutions, policies, and plans established under the Resource Management Act 1991 with the addition of community based land management decision making bodies.