Have you ever heard of a fungus that helps control invasive alien plants? Meet Cylindrobasidium torrendii, a naturally occurring fungus that could revolutionise black wattle treatment. This tiny organism is helping manage areas of invasive species like Acacia mearnsii (black wattle). Black wattle is a fast-growing, aggressive plant that spreads rapidly and outcompetes indigenous vegetation. Black wattle disrupts ecosystems by consuming excess water and nutrients, displacing the indigenous flora.
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Recently, the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy had the privilege of hosting Dr Alan Wood from the Agricultural Research Council, an expert in plant pathogen behaviour and biocontrol development. Dr Wood presented his biocontrol solution as an alternative to herbicide to control black wattle on cut stumps. The Conservancy is working with Dr Wood to test this approach in real world conditions.  

During his visit, Dr Wood demonstrated to the Grootvadersbosch team and a group of alien clearing workers how the biocontrol works. He explained how to mix and apply the fungus on stumps immediately after cutting down black wattle trees, ensuring it is absorbed through the stump and into the roots. This method targets the tree’s internal systems without the potential environmental and human health risks associated with herbicides.
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Unlike herbicides that can harm the environment and workers who appply, without the correct protective equipment, Cylindrobasidium torrendii offers a natural, water-based solution. The biocontrol is applied directly onto the stump after cutting the tree at ankle height with either a chainsaw or silky saw. From there, the fungus colonises the tree’s roots and slowly decomposes them, preventing regrowth. It’s like pressing a natural shutdown button for unwanted black wattle trees. Best of all, the fungus is species-specific, meaning it won’t spread to surrounding indigenous plants, making it an eco-friendly alternative to herbicides. Dr Wood is trialing a new, and more cost effective, formulation of this fungus. 

Although Cylindrobasidium torrendii isn’t a fast-acting solution, it is possibly a more sustainable and less harmful method for combating black wattle. It takes time for the fungus to spread and for the decomposition process to fully take effect, but the long-term benefits could make it worthwhile and this approach allows indigenous plants to recover naturally. 

​The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy has recently launched an exciting new project called the "Comfy Cows" Initiative, aimed at addressing climate change while enhancing animal welfare on local farms. In collaboration with a progressive dairy farmer, the Conservancy is implementing strategic tree planting within agricultural pastures, creating a natural solution to heat stress and promoting sustainable farming practices.
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This unique partnership is a shining example of how conservation and agriculture can work together to benefit both the environment and the farming community.

Creating Comfort for Cows: Trees for Shade and Shelter
At the heart of the Comfy Cows Initiative is the planting of indigenous trees and shrubs within the dairy farm’s pastures. These trees will provide essential shade and shelter for the cattle, protecting them from rising temperatures and reducing the impact of heat stress—a growing issue as global temperatures increase.
Currently, farmers use shade nets to provide cover for their cows, but these require frequent replacement and maintenance. By planting fast-growing pioneer species alongside long-living, non-toxic trees, the farm is investing in a long-term solution that will not only improve animal welfare but also cut future costs. Over the coming decades, these trees will provide natural shade and significantly reduce the need for artificial shelters.
 
Tackling Environmental Pressures with Sustainable Solutions
The Comfy Cows Initiative is also helping local farmers meet the increasing pressures of environmental and animal welfare regulations. With growing global demand for sustainable agricultural practices, farmers are seeking new ways to ensure the health of their animals, soil, and surrounding ecosystems.
This project aligns perfectly with these needs by contributing to local biodiversity, enhancing ecosystem services, and supporting carbon sequestration efforts. Through sustainable tree planting, farmers are not only improving conditions for their livestock but also playing a vital role in combating climate change. The project is also creating additional employment opportunities for our newly trained restoration teams who are learning new ways to integrate restoration practices into sustainable agriculture.

A Future Opportunity: Indigenous Fodder Plants
 In addition to the shade provided by trees, the project has raised interest in exploring the potential of indigenous fodder plants—an area that is not yet well-researched but could offer valuable benefits to both livestock and the environment. As the project grows, this may become another avenue for collaboration with local farmers, creating a more holistic approach to sustainability in agriculture.
 
Comfy Cows: A Model for the Future of Farming
The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy’s Comfy Cows Initiative demonstrates how farmers can integrate sustainable practices into their operations while supporting both the environment and their bottom line. By investing in natural solutions, such as tree planting, farmers are taking proactive steps to meet the demands of a changing climate and more stringent regulations, all while ensuring the welfare of their animals.
 
This initiative is more than just a local project; it’s an example of how collaboration between conservationists and businesses can lead to innovative, long-lasting solutions. Through Comfy Cows, the Conservancy is showing that a sustainable future is possible when we work together to create systems that benefit both nature and agriculture.
As this project continues to grow, it will serve as an inspiration for other farms and industries looking to adopt eco-friendly practices. 

The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy is proud to lead the way in building a more resilient, climate-conscious farming community.

​The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the health of our rivers, particularly those flowing through the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy. Recently, we had the opportunity to visit the Barrydale Wastewater Treatment Works, engaging with the Swellendam Municipality, Zutari, and Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency.

​The visit allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced in managing wastewater systems.

​Our mission is to raise awareness and educate our communities about the critical links between wastewater treatment and river protection. We learned that while wastewater treatment facilities play a crucial role in managing the water we use, every individual can contribute to reducing the strain on these systems and, in turn, protect our rivers and oceans.

​Exploring Nature-Based Solutions
We are excited to collaborate with the municipality on innovative, nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment. These include bioremediation techniques, constructed wetlands, and biofiltration systems. Constructed polishing wetlands mimic natural ecosystems, leveraging plants and microorganisms to remove pollutants through biological, physical, and chemical processes. Not only do these systems treat wastewater, but they also enhance biodiversity, provide habitats, and improve water quality in surrounding areas.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore and implement these promising solutions.

Your efforts, combined with these advanced methods, will play a vital role in safeguarding our rivers and ensuring a healthier environment for all.

From The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy Team:
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For more tips on eco-friendly cleaning alternatives, visit: Water Stories - Take Action