Prosopis plants were introduced into the Northern Cape via Namibia as shade and fodder trees for the somewhat treeless areas. The plant is renowned for its drought tolerance, good firewood and high pod production. The idea was that this tree was an "all in one" option with shade, fuel and fodder. State departments actively promoted the planting of prosopis, and many farmers visited the USA and brought seeds back for their own properties. The result is that a mix of species was imported with little record of what, when and where they were planted. This continued until the mid-1970's when people started noticing that prosopis was taking over the best lands of the Northern Cape.
Research was initiated in 1977 to look at the ecology and control of the plant. Biocontrol was introduced at a low level as the farmers were not convinced that prosopis was not a worthwhile plant to have. Research has continued over the years looking at most aspects of the plant. Control agencies have had massive campaigns to control prosopis yet it has continued to spread and is now estimated to cover more than 6 million ha is the Northern Cape.
Can prosopis be managed? The answer to this should be what will happen if we do not? Recent research efforts and renewed focus on prosopis may help. I believe it can be managed if the problem is viewed and approached on a holistic basis. A farm cannot be segmented into those areas with prosopis and those without. Each farm needs a plan that aims firstly to make the area suitable to be farmed and then to completely remove the prosopis. This is a long-term action so managing the problem in a way that prevents spread and increases cropping and grazing areas while easing access to other areas makes sense. Take ownership of the problem (no one else will) and approach it in a way that will best suite your property. A well-drawn and discussed management plan is the starting point. Â
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Rhodes university recently launched a programme with the aim of developing a national strategy for prosopis, improving biocontrol options and assisting farmers with management plans for their property.