12th SAVANNAH SCIENCE NETWORKING MEETING, SKUKUZA, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

12th SAVANNAH SCIENCE NETWORKING MEETING, SKUKUZA, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

 BY BRIAN KAJENGO

The Kruger National Park (KNP) once again host scientists and researchers from around the world at the 12^th annual Savanna Science Network Meeting which will take place from 9-14 March 2014 at Nombolo Mdhluli, in Skukuza.

Now in its 12th consecutive year, the meeting will once again bring together scientists, conservationists and park managers from across the globe to present their latest findings relating to research conducted in South African national parks and other protected areas, particularly within the savanna biome. 

During the course of four days, 200 delegates representing 72 scientific institutions and conservation agencies from 11 countries will share, discuss and debate findings and ideas relating to biodiversity, and protected areas conservation and management.

Addressing the theme science informing African savannah conservation?’ 122 platform presentations and speed talks, and 27 poster presentations grouped into sessions covering a variety of diverse topics.

These include the effects of anthropogenic activities on savannas, the impact of herbivores on their environment and their own response to changing environments, changes in vegetation structure and patterns, and regulated and illegal resource use.