The Author & Ecologist

Frits van Oudtshoorn

Southern Africa’s foremost practical authority on grass identification and veld management.

For three decades, Frits van Oudtshoorn has worked across the grasslands and savannas of Southern Africa, conducting veld assessments, grazing-capacity studies and rehabilitation projects for commercial farmers, game reserves and the mining sector. He grew up on a Limpopo farm and holds a Master’s in Nature Conservation, specialising in Ecological Restoration.

His two books, the Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa and Veld Management: Principles & Practices, have become standard references in agricultural colleges and on farms alike. His work bridges rigorous grassland ecology and the day-to-day decisions that keep land productive.

Through the GrassPro app and Working on Grass, he puts that knowledge directly into the hands of the people who manage the land. He also runs Africa Land-Use Training (ALUT), an accredited training provider; formal courses are offered through ALUT at alut.co.za.

Credentials
MSc Nature Conservation
Ecological Restoration
Registered Barenbrug SA seed agent
Custom mix formulation
Published author
Two standard veld references
Africa Land-Use Training (ALUT)
Accredited training provider
30yrHands-on veld assessment & fieldwork
390Grass species documented across Southern Africa
2Standard-reference books authored & in print

Areas of expertise

Veld condition assessment
Grazing-capacity studies
Grass identification
Ecological restoration
Mine rehabilitation
Grazing management

Work with Frits, or read his work

Book a consultation or explore the books, instruments and app.