​The Boosman shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani) is a critically endangered shrew found only in a remote afro-montane forest section in the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. It has not been seen since 1980 but in partnership with Cape Nature, the GVB Conservancy assisted in an expedition to find the shrew again.

Here is a video summary of the trip..

We took the opportunity to combine our plans with a heli-hack that was planned in the same mountain region. This would allow us to use a helicopter to transport 86 traps into the mountains with all our equipment. The only way to get to the forest is a 15km hike into the mountains through old and tall fynbos of the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area.

The last time the shrew was found, it took several nights to trap them as they are knowns to be trap-shy but with limited time we were hoping to catch them in 3 nights and 4 mornings. We set out 86 traps, 30 traps were put close to the huts and 56 traps were put on the forest edge of the Boosmanbos forest.

​The traps were baited with peanut butter and oats balls and needed to be checked daily. Our team included experienced small mammal trapping experts, and it was wonderful to watch and learn how to do this safely. We used Sherman traps that were on loan to the expedition (thank you to all who assisted). These traps are excellent for small mammal trapping and allow animals to be safely caught and released without any harm.

After 3 nights of not finding the special creatures, we decided to continue to trap and a major logistical adjustment meant that some team members returned home, while a second team returned up the mountain for a further 2 days of trapping. We then had to overcome the formidable logistics of getting everyone down (including, trap gear, and all garbage) which required a fleet of people.

Unfortunately, we did not find the special shrew and they remain elusive. We only found 2 small mammal species: Myomyscus verreauxii and Myosorex varius. This is less than what we expected but it has helped us to prepare a second expedition where we will conduct more expensive research on historical records to ensure that we have located the most ideal location and have prepared us for a much longer expedition, where we may have to use 2-3 teams of people to locate this elusive creature.

​We can’t yet draw any conclusions on its current population status. We hope that this creature is just very shy and not used to anyone being near its secretive home. We are planning new techniques to try and capture it, including camera traps and a longer expedition into deeper forest areas.

While we did not achieve our objective, we were able to bio-blitz a range of species which allowed us to better understand this unique mountain forest environment. The information also allows us to think carefully about the implications of long intervals between burns within the fynbos region. The last time this area burnt is in the late 80’s and so it’s important to assess this forest shrew population before another fire.

​We do not know what the impact will be of a large fire in the area and if the shrew is limited to the forest edge. If so, a very warm burn could impact the population. We suspect it is safely hiding in the fire safety of the deep forest, but we will be doing all we can to understand its current habit better so that we can ensure its survival in this magnificent and secretive place. 

We look forward to another trip in April 2025!

Well done to the team and everyone who trekked up and down the mountain and who helped make it possible from base camp.

Cape Nature: Marienne de Villiers, Andrew Turner, Edgar Michaels, Graham Highburg, Dominique Coetzee and Elna Vaaltyn.

GVB Conservancy: Ricardo Januarie, Philip Daries, Keith Moodie, Aileen Anderson, Jessi Venter and Ebenezer Figueroa

Cliff and Suretha Dorse (authors of the amazing book Field Guide to Fynbos Fauna) (Get a copy now)
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Logistics and base camp: Darren Blom, Michael Raimondo, Justin du Toit, Nkosekhaya Pinzi, Makoma Mpekwane

​We are excited to share the progress of our project, funded by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which focuses on protecting a critically endangered freshwater fish population in the Huis River. The project, called Creating a Safe Home in the Huis River for the Tradouw Redfin, is a collaborative effort with the local community of Barrydale to safeguard this unique species and their fragile habitat.

The Huis River, which flows through the Western Cape of South Africa, is the last known refuge for a critically endangered population of redfin, Pseudobarbus sp. ‘burchelli Tradouw’, commonly called the Tradouw or Barrydale Redfin. The population in the Tradouw Pass, which is part of the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy, appears to be in decline so urgent action is needed to protect these fish who may now be confined to isolated pools above the town of Barrydale, by ensuring their safe haven in the Huis River, we hope to enable the possibility of reestablishing the species in the Tradouw Pass.
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An essential part of this initiative involves reducing the pressure on the river's water resources. During the summer months, when water is scarce and the fish need it most, low river flows pose a significant threat to the redfin’s survival. To address this, we have been working with local community members to reduce the need for water extraction from the river by providing rainwater storage solutions.

​Through the generous support of The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), we have distributed rainwater tanks to community members who expressed a need for water and a commitment to help protect the river system. These tanks are designed to collect rainwater during the winter months, which can then be used to meet the community's needs in the drier summer season. By relying on stored rainwater, we reduce the demand on the Huis River, which in turn helps protect the delicate balance of the freshwater ecosystem.

This project not only benefits the redfin but also encourages water conservation and sustainable practices within the community. With growing pressure on municipal water supplies, agricultural development, and tourism, every effort to conserve water is vital. The tanks have been distributed to those who have shown a strong commitment to river conservation, and we encourage all members of the Barrydale community to do their part in saving water. Together, we can protect the Tradouw Redfin and ensure a healthy future for the Huis River.

​Have you ever wondered what tiny creatures call our rivers home? This month, junior high school students in De Waaville (Heidelberg) and Olyfkrans (Swellendam) explored this fascinating question while learning about freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater ecosystems are vital for sustaining life on Earth, providing drinking water and habitats for countless species, and rivers play a critical role in maintaining this balance. Educating young people about the health of these ecosystems fosters a sense of responsibility and empowers them to take action. 

​At both schools, we were able to do a mini-SASS using samples collected from Koringlands River in Swellendam and Duiwenhoks in Heidelberg. The samples were collected in upstream and downstream locations to illustrate how human habitation can impact our river health. 

​A SASS (South African Scoring System) is a tool used by scientists to monitor river health by identifying benthic macroinvertebrates, small aquatic animals that live in riverbeds. Each species is assigned a score, with more environmentally sensitive species having higher scores. These scores are then averaged, with higher averages signalling a better overall river health. The GVB conservancy does SASS at various river locations twice a year to understand the river ecosystem health in the region. It is important for us at the conservancy to identify ways to work with the community to keep our rivers healthy. This includes doing mini-SASS sessions with students living around many of the rivers we sample. 

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While standard SASS requires specialised training, the simplified mini-SASS makes this process accessible to citizens, especially school-aged children. Much of the methods for sample collection and score production is simplified, while also maintaining a comparable overall standard of assessment. This makes mini-SASS ideal for our environmental education days. Some students from Olyfkrans had the opportunity to watch how samples were collected. A GVB conservancy member went into the river with waders and a net. We placed the net on the bed of the river and began kicking the rocks below. Additionally, we made sure to sample on gravel riverbed and near spots of the river with vegetation. Samples are placed in a white tray containing freshwater from the river, and students are given info sheets to help identify the species within the tray.

​Although the species within the tray are visible to the naked eye, students were also given a hand lens and magnifying glass to look for distinct features to help with identification. Students from both schools were eager and excited to identify the macroinvertebrate species. Many species look similar, so students also had a poster that illustrated the different species to help draw conclusions. The posters were then donated to the schools with big thanks to Christian Fry, whose incredible book A Field Guide to Freshwater Macroinvertebrates of South Africa is an amazing resource for freshwater macroinvertebrate identification.

​We love to see our students engage in discussion about what they are seeing! After calculating the scores for river health, students were given an opportunity to brainstorm ways they could help improve river health, including limiting their own pollution. Many of them stated the importance of planting indigenous plant species in their home gardens, especially if they live near a river. Indigenous plant species near a river can help improve water quality, limit erosion, and help reduce the risk of floods. 

Students from Olyfkrans also had the opportunity to put what they learned into practice by planting indigenous trees on their school grounds. They demonstrated a great deal of care with the trees they planted. Way to go, guys! These environmental education days remind us of the power of young minds to inspire change. We can’t wait to continue fostering this enthusiasm in future projects and encourage everyone to take small steps—like planting a tree or reducing pollution—it all adds up to healthier rivers and ecosystems for all. A big thank you to Table Mountain Fund for funding this work and to the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve who are our project partners. 

This year’s AGM was a special occasion as we celebrated 10 years of active project implementation, alongside highlighting the impactful work of the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy across a range of environmental projects. What started with the employment of our first 3 full-time staff members has grown into a thriving organization, now employing 10 full-time, while creating contract work for over 120 people annually.
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A Decade of Alien Clearing
One of our most significant achievements over the past decade has been our alien clearing program. Since 2014, we’ve successfully cleared 18,823 hectares, with follow-ups on 15,870 hectares, creating over 100,747 days of employment. On average, this translates to 43 full-time jobs each year. This program not only provides job opportunities but also ensures the preservation and health of our local ecosystems, protecting them from alien invasive species and providing the natural vegetation to grow back.

​Expanding into Restoration
Thanks to funding from the IKI small grant and IUCN, our restoration projects have expanded over the past year. The restoration work supports sustainable agricultural practices, healthier river systems, job opportunities, and capacity building. These efforts are crucial for climate stability and river security, as well as for maintaining biodiversity. We've trained over 20 people in restoration work where half of the time is spent working within a nursery, how to propagate local indigenous species, how to do cuttings and splitting, and the correct planting methods.
Our work in active restoration spans 3 different sites, including private landowners and public areas, showcasing diversity, in both species and partnerships, which is key to building environmental resilience.

​Keynote Address: River Restoration and Agriculture
Our keynote speaker, Dana Grobler, shared his invaluable insights on river restoration, using his experience with various river systems as an example. Dana’s talk focused on the impact of agriculture on the environment, particularly on river systems, and how sustainable practices can mitigate these effects. He emphasized the importance of understanding river geomorphology and the natural flood zones to implement effective restoration strategies. His close collaboration with landowners has resulted in improvements to their local environment and enhanced the health of their rivers.
Through the removal of invasive species and better management of sediment transport, Dana's efforts have shown how landowners can contribute to restoring riparian zones, creating a balance that benefits both the environment and the agricultural landscape.

​A Journey Through Time with Thys Swart
Another highlight of the day was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, presented by one of our members, Thys Swart. Thys captivated the audience with stories about the rich history of theGrootvadersbosch Valley, dating back to the 1700s. He shared fascinating tales about the first settlers, the old farms, and how the conservancy has evolved over the centuries. This historical perspective added depth to the celebration and left everyone feeling more connected to the land we are working to protect.

New Projects and Looking Ahead
We’re excited to announce our upcoming three-year project, funded by the Nedbank Green Trust, which will focus on water resource protection in the Tradouw and Huis river systems. This project is a continuation of our partnership with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve and aims to further our conservation and restoration efforts in the region.
Additionally, we’ve recently assisted to restoration the Barrydale Caravan Park, which now features a medicinal and useful plant garden, indigenous tree rehabilitation, and a picnic area. This area serves both as a conservation effort and a recreational space for the community to enjoy.
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The Future is Bright
As we look forward, we remain committed to furthering our restoration and conservation work. We are proud of what we have achieved over the past decade and are excited about the future projects we have planned. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient environment for the Grootvadersbosch area and beyond.

And as always, we had a wonderful wine tasting the evening of the fabulous Olifantsberg Wines and a fantastic meal from the Grootvadersbosch Farm that Michelle Moodie prepared

Thank you to everyone who attended! 

​Ever wondered what it's like to dangle 100 metres in the air, with just a rope keeping you from gravity’s grip? Well, welcome to high-angle rope work—where everyday tasks like washing windows or alien clearing take place in the sky!
Picture this: You're strapped in, harness tight, helmet snug. Below, the world looks small as you pull yourself up, one line at a time. The sunshine on your face and the only sounds are the creak of your gear and your own heartbeat. It’s not just work—it’s a vertical adventure!
From skyscrapers to cliffs, high-angle work gives you views that no desk job ever could. And yes, the adrenaline? That’s just a bonus.
Ready to hang out?

These are the words from our quality controller - Philip Daries - who recently acquired his High-Angle Training. With this training and knowledge he can ensure our high altitude teams are save and implementing the correct procedures.  

What Exactly Is High-Angle Rope Work?
Ever looked up at a building or cliff and spotted someone hanging from a rope, casually working away as if gravity isn't a thing? Yep, that’s high-angle rope work—a job that mixes equal parts adrenaline, skill, and a love for heights. Let’s dive in (safely, with a harness on!) to what makes this job both thrilling and practical.
Imagine trying to remove alien plants on a cliff in the mountain range —only it’s hundreds of metres above ground, and no piece of equipment or ledge is safe enough. That’s where rope work comes in. Using specialised equipment like harnesses, ropes, ascenders, and carabiners, professionals safely access hard-to-reach spots by dangling like adventurous human spiders. This isn't your everyday desk job—think of it as extreme multitasking at great heights!
We had the privilege to receive first-hand training from a matured technician in his field with decades of experience, Mr. Dion Tromp from High-angle Rescue and Access. With decades of experience, he shared his experiences and knowledge with us as we embarked on a new journey. Emphasising that safety comes first and that ropework is not time-based but rather safety-based. “Take your time as long as you are safe while dangling”, as he would exclaim. In partnership with the GCBR, the conservancy recently made their training space available to train 15 number of people in rope access. We also used the opportunity to offer a refresher training to our active rope access teams and train a new supervisor to oversee the work. The GVBCT has been implementing rope access work in the Korente-Vette River gorge for the past 3 years.

The Gear: It’s More Than Just a Fancy Rope
Sure, the rope is important (really important!), but there’s a whole array of gear designed to keep workers secure and comfortable while they dangle mid-air. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:

• Harness: Think of it as your security blanket, but way cooler. This hugs your body tight, keeping you snug and attached to the ropes while keeping all your equipment on you secure.

​Screw-gate Carabiners: These little metal clips are your lifeline—literally! They secure the ropes to your harness, and their job is to make sure everything stays attached and connected.

• Ascenders & Descenders: Fancy tools that help you go up and down like a superhero. Ascenders lock in place when you pull yourself up, while descenders let you glide down smoothly (or as gracefully as you can manage).

​The first image is an I’D used for descending and counts as 1 point. The next piece of equipment is a Jumar followed by the Croll, used for ascending. These two are used together and count as 1 point accumulatively.

​What Does a Day Look Like for a High-Angle Rope Worker?
Spoiler alert: It’s not all death-defying stunts and dramatic scaling of mountains. Though, to be honest, some days might be exactly like that! A typical day might involve checking equipment, setting up anchor points, and making sure everything is secure before even stepping off the ground.
With this training experience, we can now ensure that every worker knows exactly how to operate when it comes to high-angle work. Every movement is calculated because at 100 meters up, there’s no room for error. Workers must trust their gear, their skills, and their teammates. When doing site inspections (with this knowledge) that’s exactly what we’ll be looking at. Ensuring the safety of the team is the FIRST priority.

​Why Choose Rope Access Over Traditional Methods?
Good question! Rope work is expensive work because the training and equipment are very costly but, in the long run, it is really important and can be safer than trying to do the work without ropes. Imagine preparing to remove a tree on a ledge but you must walk and cling on for dear life when doing it—now imagine just clipping into a rope and rappelling down in half the time. It’s also less intrusive, allowing workers to keep operating without bulky equipment blocking the way. The work is essential to reach the hard to get to places in the mountains and is much safer. This allows us to do our job more efficiently and more accurately, instead of clearing an area while leaving 2 or 3 trees.
 
Final Thoughts: Rope Work—For the Brave at Heart
If you’ve ever wanted a job that’s anything but ordinary, high-angle rope work might just be for you. It’s the perfect blend of technical skill, physical fitness, and, well, hanging out in the sky! Whether it’s fixing things in high places, keeping mountains clear of invasives, or inspecting hard-to-reach areas, these sky-walking professionals keep everything running smoothly—all while having the best view in the house.
Now, who’s ready to go for a (safe) climb?

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.
​
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.
​
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.

​Ever wondered what it's like to dangle 100 metres in the air, with just a rope keeping you from gravity’s grip? Well, welcome to high-angle rope work—where everyday tasks like washing windows or alien clearing take place in the sky!

Picture this: You're strapped in, harness tight, helmet snug. Below, the world looks small as you pull yourself up, one line at a time. The sunshine on your face and the only sounds are the creak of your gear and your own heartbeat. It’s not just work—it’s a vertical adventure!
From skyscrapers to cliffs, high-angle work gives you views that no desk job ever could. And yes, the adrenaline? That’s just a bonus.

Ready to hang out?

These are the words from our quality controller - Philip Dairies - who recently completed his High Angle course where he can safely implement and manage High-Angle teams. Please enjoy the rest of where Philip explain the type of equipment they use and why we are doing this work.   

What Exactly Is High-Angle Rope Work?
Ever looked up at a building or cliff and spotted someone hanging from a rope, casually working away as if gravity isn't a thing? Yep, that’s high-angle rope work—a job that mixes equal parts adrenaline, skill, and a love for heights. Let’s dive in (safely, with a harness on!) to what makes this job both thrilling and practical.

Imagine trying to remove alien plants on a cliff in the mountain range —only it’s hundreds of metres above ground, and no piece of equipment or ledge is safe enough. That’s where rope work comes in. Using specialised equipment like harnesses, ropes, ascenders, and carabiners, professionals safely access hard-to-reach spots by dangling like adventurous human spiders. This isn't your everyday desk job—think of it as extreme multitasking at great heights!

We had the privilege to receive first-hand training from a matured technician in his field with decades of experience, Mr. Dion Tromp from High-angle Rescue and Access. With decades of experience, he shared his experiences and knowledge with us as we embarked on a new journey. Emphasising that safety comes first and that ropework is not time-based but rather safety-based. “Take your time as long as you are safe while dangling”, as he would exclaim. In partnership with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR), the conservancy recently made their training space available to train X number of people in rope access. We also used the opportunity to offer a refresher training to our active rope access teams and train a new supervisor to oversee the work. The GVBCT has been implementing rope access work in the Korente-Vette River gorge for the past 3 years and has successfully remove the alien invasive species in the areas that we have worked in.

​The Gear: It’s More Than Just a Fancy Rope
Sure, the rope is important (really important!), but there’s a whole array of gear designed to keep workers secure and comfortable while they dangle mid-air. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:

• Harness: Think of it as your security blanket, but way cooler. This hugs your body tight, keeping you snug and attached to the ropes while keeping all your equipment on you secure.

​

• Asap: One of, if not, the most important piece of equipment you can have as a rope work technician, counts as 1 point. It glides with you up and down but locks instantaneously when experiencing shock loads, keeping you safe from gravity’s fate.

​Asap absorber: The lifeline to your safety line. This device keeps you anchored to you and your ASAP, in this case, with 2 trilock carabiners (usually has 1 trilock and 1 screw-gate carabiner). The Asap absorber serves as a shock absorber when bad turns to worse.

​Screw-gate Carabiners: These little metal clips are your lifeline—literally! They secure the ropes to your harness, and their job is to make sure everything stays attached and connected.

• Ascenders & Descenders: Fancy tools that help you go up and down like a superhero. Ascenders lock in place when you pull yourself up, while descenders let you glide down smoothly (or as gracefully as you can manage).

First image is an I’D used for descending and counts as 1 point. The next piece of equipment is a Jumar followed by the Croll, used for ascending. These two are used together and counts as 1 point accumulatively. 

What Does a Day Look Like for a High-Angle Rope Worker?
Spoiler alert: It’s not all death-defying stunts and dramatic scaling of mountains. Though, to be honest, some days might be exactly like that! A typical day might involve checking equipment, setting up anchor points, and making sure everything is secure before even stepping off the ground.
With this training experience, we can now ensure that every worker knows exactly how to operate when it comes to high-angle work. Every movement is calculated because at 100 meters up, there’s no room for error. Workers must trust their gear, their skills, and their teammates. When doing site inspections (with this knowledge) that’s exactly what we’ll be looking at.

Ensuring the safety of the team is the FIRST priority.

​Why Choose Rope Access Over Traditional Methods?
Good question! Rope work is expensive work because the training and equipment are very costly but, in the long run, it is really important and can be safer than trying to do the work without ropes. Imagine preparing to remove a tree on a ledge but you must walk and cling on for dear life when doing it—now imagine just clipping into a rope and rappelling down in half the time. It’s also less intrusive, allowing workers to keep operating without bulky equipment blocking the way. The work is essential to reach the hard to get to places in the mountains and is much safer. This allows us to do our job more efficiently and more accurately, instead of clearing an area while leaving 2 or 3 trees.
 
Final Thoughts: Rope Work—For the Brave at Heart
If you’ve ever wanted a job that’s anything but ordinary, high-angle rope work might just be for you. It’s the perfect blend of technical skill, physical fitness, and, well, hanging out in the sky! Whether it’s fixing things in high places, keeping mountains clear of invasives, or inspecting hard-to-reach areas, these sky-walking professionals keep everything running smoothly—all while having the best view in the house.
Now, who’s ready to go for a (safe) climb?

​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