Conservation in the context of wildflower harvesting: the development and implementation of a Vulnerability Index on the Agulhas Plain of South Africa

Abstract

This paper focuses upon the role that science-based interventions allied to effective regulatory regimes can play in reducing the threat posed by inappropriate harvesting of wild flora. A Vulnerability Index (VI) has been developed for 150 natural fynbos species that exist on South Africa’s Agulhas Plain, where intensive wildflower harvesting occurs. The methodology underpinning the generation of the VI is outlined and justified in this paper. The VI comprises a range of characteristics relating to species distribution and biology that are likely to influence vulnerability to harvesting. The VI is proving to be an important tool for regulating the harvesting of wild fynbos and maintaining the resilience of natural ecosystems threatened by climate change. Furthermore, economic development and livelihood stability are promoted by protecting the resource base of marketable species. The paper discusses issues that have arisen relating to the application and rollout of the VI in practice.

Keywords:

• Cape Floristic Region
• fynbos
• sustainable harvesting
• biodiversity conservation
• Red List

Acknowledgements

Thanks are due to the Flower Valley Conservation Trust for logistical and moral support. Particular thanks are due to Bronwyn Botha, Kirsten Watson and Heather Dalton for their input. Financial support was provided by Flower Valley Conservation Trust and the Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative. Thanks also to the cartographers at Otago University for producing the map.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.