Post mining landscapes have proven to be main inhibiting factor of vegetation succession for decades. Despite reclamation measures being undertaken, little is documented about their success. This study therefore seeks to assess the reclamation of disturbed mine landscapes through; i. Identification of species composition and distribution ii. Evaluation of the vegetation structure and iii. Exploration of the historical and (1907, 1952, 1988 and 2007) spatial composition change on the landscape.
Data collection took place at the end of the dry season where the vegetation appears to be at its peak at three different sites. Stratified random sampling coupled with belt transect were employed in constructing 121 quadrat plots of 10m2x10m2. All species with DBH >1cm and height >1m were measured and recorded. Ground truthing coupled with aerial photos and topo sheets were used in GIS Algorithm for land use classification and changes whilst patch analyst was employed for landscape analysis. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) coupled with diversity indices and generalized linear models were used for vegetation analysis.
Twelve LandUse/LandCover types were generated and classified. Elevation and height proved strong constraining variables (CCA) influencing pattern of species variation at study sites. GLM showed forest structure is in intermediate state.