Is natural resource management effective as EbA_Data sets

Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) is likely critical to maintain ecological infrastructure while sustaining agricultural livelihoods. Natural resource management (NRM) programmes in South Africa traditionally provide jobs and restore ecosystems but it is unknown whether they are effective or qualify as EbA. In a novel approach, we tested both the social and climate resilience value of a three-year NRM erosion control programme. Structured interviews and a Before-After-Control-Impact-Paired design measured social and biophysical (sediment capture and water infiltration) aspects, respectively. Most respondents understood that ecosystems provide climate resilience but linked personal benefits to training, employment and confidence rather than socio-ecological factors. Low-cost gabions and micro-ponds increased sediment capture across gully ( of 233 mm) but less across sheet ( of 3 mm) eroded sites. Erosion control structures increased water infiltration into soil 2.7-fold regardless of erosion type (P<0.01). Soil responses were related to treatment and site but not soil or vegetation (linear mixed-effects models; P<0.0003). Shrubs and geophytes increased marginally with erosion control (P = 0.07) while more dramatic increases in soil and vegetation could occur in future, non-drought years. Thus, the NRM programme is partially effective as an EbA but we make policy and monitoring recommendations for improved implementation.