People and grazing in South Westland

From a reconnaissance survey of areas involved with grazing, the typical forest margin site was found to have had moderate animal impacts. Plant succession and forest regeneration was found to be occurring on sites with low animal impacts but inhibited on sites with high animal impacts. The exterior appearance of the margin and the level of use of the adjacent grassy flat, indicated the level of impacts on the forest margin zone, when some allowance was made for the physical characteristics of the site. These are two useful quick assessment methods. A near complete survey of farmers and Dept. of Conservation staff found their views to be similar on stock grazing behaviour but they differed on the effects of the grazing impacts. This is in part due to differences in opinion as to what are acceptable disturbance factors on an ecosystem. A questionnaire and interview of a sample of the population showed that people shared similar reasons for living in South Westland. The opinions of the different occupational groups showed similarities in wanting more local control and input into management, and the sustainable use of natural areas. All groups other than Dept. of Conservation were dissatisfied with the present administration and management, and expressed a wish for fewer restrictions on the use of natural areas. Differences in views and opinions concerning the environment can be accounted for by differences in experience. These may be due to different social, cultural, occupational and educational backgrounds, as well as the length of time spent on the West Coast and the degree of contact with the natural environment. The successful management of the areas associated with grazing lies in the recognition and integration of both ecological and social aspects.