Alien Clearing: Swellendam And Barrydale

​Since 2022, with the support of Swellendam Municipality, we have been hard at work with alien clearing projects in the towns of Swellendam and Barrydale. Our efforts within the towns have resulted in the initial clearing of 243 hectares, with follow-up maintenance on an additional 177 hectares. This monumental task will not only rejuvenated the landscape but has also provided a total of 4000 days of employment for local communities. We're proud of this achievement and grateful for the ongoing support of our funding partners.

Focus on Riparian Zones

​Our attention has now shifted to the riparian zone of the Koringlands River through Swellendam. This vital ecosystem requires delicate care to thrive, which is why we're committed to removing alien invasive species that monopolise water resources. By clearing these intruders and allowing natural vegetation to flourish, we're not only preserving biodiversity but also restoring the balance of these critical areas. We also have a monitoring programme to understand how this clearing improves the status of the river. Funding for these projects comes from the Swellendam Municipality, dedicated landowners, and the Breede Gouritz Catchment Management Agency. We have a similar project in place to restore the Huis River in Barrydale so watch out for news of that soon.

​As stewards of the land, it's our privilege and responsibility to protect the natural wonders that surround us. Our focus lies in minimising fire risks and controlling sparsely invaded regions, ensuring that the hard work of alien clearing isn't undone. Through our ongoing efforts in alien clearing and riparian zone restoration, we're working tirelessly to uphold this commitment. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our funding partners, landowners and contractors who make our conservation endeavours possible.
 
Together, we're not just clearing aliens; we're cultivating a future where nature thrives and continues to provide the ecosystem services that we all depend on. Stay tuned for more updates on our conservation activities, and let's continue to make a positive impact on the world around us.