The Predation Management Forum (PMF) has developed an outline of minimum requirements in training livestock farmers and farm workers on best practices in predation management.
Their goal is to minimize losses incurred as a result of predation by the use of environmentally friendly and ethical methods, whilst at the same time protecting the biodiversity found in South Africa. PMSA recognises a number of animals under predation management, such as the black-back jackal, caracal, bat-eared fox and baboons.
This is put into effect within the guidelines laid down by the Sector Education and Training Authority for Agriculture (AgriSETA).
The National Wool Growers’ Association of SA (NWGA) is a member of the PMF, and as a certified service provider with AgriSETA, is considered a predation management authority. They provide training to farmers under NWGA accreditation, thereby ensuring training is up to standard and of high quality.
The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) has outlined a draft of Norms and Standards for predation management in South Africa. It proposes that any farmer who needs to contain damage-causing animals should do so under regulation and attain a permit and, as well as be adequately trained. The issuing of permits is subject to required competency levels attained throughout training.
Livestock farmers suffer losses in the region of R2 billion each year due to predators, such as black-backed jackal, caracal, leopard, cheet...