Title
Vegetation Changes to the Okavango Delta, Botswana: A Comparison Between Managed and Non-Managed Areas
Date of Award
3-10-2010
Document Type
Capstone Project
Disciplines
Environmental Policy & Mgmt
Degree Name
Master of Applied Science
Department
Environmental Policy & Mgmt
Advisor
Jerry Barker
Keywords
Botswana, Delta, Forest, Land management, Natural resources, Okavango, Vegetation
Abstract
This capstone explores vegetation changes in the Okavango Delta area of Botswana. Spatial analyses were conducted using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer Normalized Difference Vegetation Index satellite imagery and Geographic Information System land management data to compare vegetation changes within managed areas to determine whether management practices have had beneficial or adverse impacts. Rainfall, logging, and livestock data were utilized to attempt to find a link to precipitation, logging, or overgrazing. After analysis the livestock data were the only one that showed a correlation to the vegetation changes observed. Of the vegetation cover types analyzed, forest showed the most change, a significant decrease. Little difference in vegetation changes was found in the managed areas, indicating that land management techniques are ineffective.
Recommended Citation
Keel, Sarah, "Vegetation Changes to the Okavango Delta, Botswana: A Comparison Between Managed and Non-Managed Areas" (2010). University College: Environmental Policy and Management Capstones. 93.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/ucol_epm/93
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.