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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.  Dr Alan Wood visiting one of our sites to test Cylindrobasidium torrendii in real life 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.  Cylindrobasidium torrendii could be a good alternative to herbicide, especially close to rivers where cornerns for the impact on biota are often the greatest
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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. 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.  Tour of Barrydale's Waste Water Treatment Works 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. How You Can Make a Difference
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: For more tips on eco-friendly cleaning alternatives, visit: Water Stories - Take Action Recently we had the privilege of hosting a speaker, Paul Barker, who works closely with identifying and eradicating the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) is an invasive beetle native to Southeast Asia that has seriously threatened South Africa's trees. The first detection was in 2017 on London Plane trees in the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Gardens in Pietermaritzburg. The PSHB has since spread to multiple locations across eight provinces. This tiny beetle, about the size of a sesame seed, may seem insignificant, but it carries with it a deadly companion: the fungus Fusarium euwallaceae. The beetle has a symbiotic relationship with this fungus, which it uses as a food source for itself and its larvae. Unfortunately, this fungus is also a tree killer. In susceptible trees, it causes a disease known as Fusarium dieback, which leads to dying branches and, ultimately, tree death.  The Threat to South Africa's Trees PSHB poses a significant risk to a wide range of exotic and indigenous trees in urban, agricultural, and natural landscapes. While the beetle attacks many tree species, it cannot complete its life cycle on all of them. Trees in which the beetle can breed and multiply are known as "reproductive host trees." These include important species such as oaks, maples, willows, coral trees, avocados, and castor beans. On these trees, the beetle establishes galleries (tunnels) where it breeds, and the fungus it carries can thrive, leading to severe damage or tree death. Conversely, there are "non-reproductive host trees" where the beetle may attack but does not establish galleries or breed. The fungus may or may not cause disease on these trees, and they are generally not expected to die. However, the presence of the beetle on any tree is a cause for concern due to the potential for the spread of the fungus. Species at Risk Among the species where both the beetle and fungus flourish are the Box Elder, Weeping Willow, English Oak, and Castor Bean. However, these are not the only species at risk. The PSHB and its associated fungus have been found in a wide variety of tree species across South Africa. For a complete list of affected species, please refer to the attached documentation. Please see attached documents for full plant species lists and more information. Preventing the Spread of PSHB One of the most significant means of spreading this beetle is the movement of infested wood, most importantly, firewood. Proper disposal of infested trees is crucial in reducing the spread of this damaging pest. Methods such as chipping, composting, or solarization of wood are recommended to prevent further infestation. Solarization can be achieved by placing chips in direct sunlight and covering the pile with plastic. Burning is not recommended as the smoke and heat will make the beetles disperse out of the wood before burning is completed. Ongoing surveys are being conducted to monitor the spread of the PSHB across South Africa. Public awareness and involvement are vital to this effort. You can assist by keeping an eye out for symptoms of infestation in your local area and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. What You Can Do
By staying informed and vigilant, we can help protect South Africa’s trees from the devastating effects of the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer. Remember - Burn it where you buy it! 
Over the last few months, we've been delighted to welcome some exceptional guests, and we're thrilled to share the highlights of their visits along with a plethora of photos! Firstly, we had the honour of hosting the South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), led by Dr. Albert Chakona, Chief Scientist and Senior Research Associate from the Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science at Rhodes University. Aileen Anderson, our esteemed General Manager and SASS Guru, joined forces with them for monitoring and DNA sampling of aquatic species in the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Region (GCBR) and partnered with friends in the Elim area to sample fish in the Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area. This collaboration was both enlightening and memorable, enabling us to address various inquiries, document previously unrecorded aquatic species, and forge new partnerships. For more insights into our partnership with GCBR, check out their article on GCBR Fish Monitoring. Additionally, delve into the SAIAB article for a deeper understanding of our discoveries in Unveiling Nature's Jewel: Exploring the Enigmatic World of the Translucent Goukou Galaxias. And be sure to immerse yourself in the captivating pictures from our expedition! Our second visit was from Landcare (Department of Agriculture), during which we had the pleasure of meeting with Rudolph Röscher, District Manager of the Cape Winelands and Hannes Muller District Manager of Eden SRUM. These annual visits entail inspections of our activities, during which Ricardo Januarie (Alien Clearing Manager) and Mzomhle Mtshintshi (Quality Controller) showcased our progress in alien-clearing activities, while Corné Brink (Restoration Manager) talked about our restoration efforts. We also visited our impressive alien clearing project in the Korente Poort Dam area, that we are implementing in partnership with the Korente-Vette Irrigation Board. The Grootbos Foundation marked our fourth visit, allowing us to showcase our valley and its fauna and flora species. It was a rewarding experience, during which we also fine-tuned our camera trap system, providing Jessi Venter (Conservation Officer) with invaluable insights (as demonstrated in the pictures) and capturing the magnificent specimens in the valley. Our fifth visit welcomed students from The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), where international honours students engaged in multiple activities within the conservancy. These activities included monitoring the restoration site near the office to track species regrowth and timing processes within the nursery itself. It was quite an experience for our GVB staff members, and we have learned a lot from this visit! And finally, our last visit was from IKI GRANT themselves. Their visit allowed us to present and showcase our project's progress, achievements, and upcoming goals. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has visited the GVB valley; it's always a pleasure to host you here!
In the heart of Barrydale, nestled within the embrace of its community, flows the Huis River—a lifeline, a haven, and a treasure trove of biodiversity. Yet, over time, neglect and alien invasive species have threatened its vitality, dimming its sparkle and jeopardising the delicate balance of its ecosystem. Today, however, a beacon of hope shines bright as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has joined hands with the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy (GVB) to embark on a transformative journey—to restore the Huis River to its former glory. The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy lies just downstream of the Huis River, so restoring this system benefits all, including those downstream. Central to this effort is the protection of the Critically Endangered Tradouw/Barrydale Redfin, whose survival hinges on the health of the Huis River.  Critically Endangered Tradouw/Barrydale Redfin Project Overview At the core of this endeavor lies a plan, to breathe life back into the riverbanks and revive the riparian ecosystems. With the support of landowners, the project will clear the Huis River of invasives and establish three planting sites along the river's edge—serving as pockets of biodiversity and additional seed banks, where native flora can flourish, and endangered species find sanctuary. The project also includes workshops and awareness-raising with the local community, informing them of why we are doing alien clearing and how we are implementing restoration work. The project continues to create work for our 12 alien clearing contractor teams. Since October 2022, the GVB conservancy has cleared 72 hectares of land in the Huis catchment from invasive plants and has released biocontrol on Hakea Species. This work has already created over 1000 days of employment. This project has allowed the GVB conservancy teams to implement their new restoration techniques which they have received over the past few, through our IKI project, allowing the teams to put their new knowledge into action! These activities include erosion control, planting methods and even forming a medicinal garden which is available for anyone to access (Just remember please don’t just take, also give back). This restoration work has created a further 160 days of employment. This project aims to identify individuals in Barrydale who could be mentored along with our existing restoration teams. The project will therefore create much-needed employment opportunities in Barrydale. Project Scope The project's scope encompasses a series of interventions to catalyse ecological regeneration and foster community stewardship. Community engagement is integral to the success of this project, along with the active participation of the Barrydale and Smitsville community. We plan to place awareness-raising signs in public spaces to inform people of the importance of the Redfin and how to protect it. Through public planting days, mural painting, water harvesting activities, educational day initiatives, and collaborative partnerships with local businesses, the project seeks to mobilise collective action and cultivate a shared sense of responsibility for the river's well-being. Long-Term Vision In the long term, the goal of this project is to provide a more suitable ecosystem and home to the Tradouw/Barrydale Redfin, while improving the health of the downstream river which flows into the Conservancy. Through sustained collaboration and unwavering dedication, the Huis River will reclaim its rightful place as the heart of Barrydale—a symbol of resilience, renewal, and the enduring power of collective action. Find out more about the Tradouw Redfin and its plight at the talks happening as part of the Silver Mountain Music Festival. Thank you to IUCN, the community of Barrydale and Swellendam Municipality for supporting this project.  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. As we find ourselves well into the swing of 2024, its time to provide an update on the exciting projects keeping us busy. One of our key focuses has been Environmental Education, aimed at fostering a love for nature and a sense of responsibility for our environment among young minds. Here's a glimpse into what we've been up to. Over the past few months, we've had the pleasure of visiting three schools where we reached over 200 children: De Waaville Primary School, Mullersrus Primary School, and Vondeling Primary School. These visits weren't just routine outings; they were immersive experiences where students got hands-on with conservation efforts.  Our environmental education program isn't just an add-on; it's integrated into the Grade 7 Natural Science curriculum. By taking learning outside the classroom, we provide students with practical insights into the importance of preserving natural habitats. From removing invasive species to planting indigenous flora, every activity is designed to instill a sense of stewardship towards our environment.  Beyond teaching theoretical concepts, we emphasised actionable steps that students can take to make a difference. Whether it's river monitoring or simple acts like picking up litter, we empower young minds to become active participants in conservation efforts. After all, small actions can lead to big changes. During these visits, we don't just educate; we also collect valuable data. Mini SASS results gathered from the field are fed into the database, contributing to broader efforts to understand the state of our rivers.  None of this would be possible without the support of our funder #Landcare from the Department of Agriculture who are committed to these projects. We are also grateful to the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve, who assisted with womanpower(!) on the day. We also very grateful to Michelle and Keith Moodie who supplied an amazing packed lunch for 200 children (that's a lot of sandwiches to make!) To the schools that welcomed us with open arms, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your enthusiasm fuels our passion for environmental education. As we move forward, we're excited about the prospect of expanding our reach and touching the lives of even more young learners. After all, our motto remains steadfast: "If we can teach another person at least one new thing, then we have done our job."  As we reflect on the busy start to this new year, our commitment to environmental education continues. With each school visit, we sow the seeds of conservation, nurturing a generation of eco-conscious citizens. Thank you to everyone who has supported our endeavours, and here's to many more initiatives. Together, we can make a difference—one student at a time.
As we reflect on World Wetlands Day, we're thrilled to shine a spotlight on the lifelines of our region – the five main river systems that we are dedicated to protecting and restoring. These rivers, each intertwined with a rural town, not only provide water for human consumption but also sustain our rural agricultural economies. Join us on a journey through these ecosystems and consider how you can help to protect these systems for future generation. The Huis/Tradouw System Supporting Barrydale and SmitsvilleThe Huis/Tradouw System originates in the Langeberg mountains above Grootvadersbosch. The river meanders down the northern side of the mountains and provides water for Barrydale/Smitsville and then flows into the Tradouw Pass. Home to the critically endangered Tradouw Redfin and freshwater eels, our team is actively monitoring and restoring this system under a new project funded by the IUCN.  The Duiwenhoks System Supporting HeidelbergThe Duiwenhoks river winds through the kloofs of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, providing water for Heidelberg and eventually embracing the ocean at Vermaarklikheid. Our commitment to the upper section involves clearing alien vegetation, monitoring, and collaborating with partners, ensuring it remains a lifeline for agriculture and the town of Heidelberg.  THe Korente-Vette River System supporting RiversdaleIn a transformative project, we've joined forces to clear the natural river gorge below the Korentepoort Dam. This collaborative effort enhances water supply to the town of Riversdale and supports agriculture by meticulously removing invasive plants with complex rope access teams, a strategically important project, achieved in partnership with Landcare and the Korente Vette Irrigation Board.  The Koringlands River supporting SwellendamCelebrating the beauty of the Koringlands River in the heart of Swellendam, we're working to remove alien vegetation and restore natural wetlands. In collaboration with Swellendam municipality, the Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency, and landowners, we hope to transform this vital system and improve the health of the river and the surrounding ecosystem.  The Grootvadersbosch River supporting SuurbraakThe Grootvadersbosch River is the lifeblood of our community, supporting agriculture and flowing through the heart of our Conservancy. With thriving indigenous fish, diverse birdlife, and ongoing efforts to clear invasive species, we're committed to safeguarding and nurturing this precious resource for generations to come.  On this World Wetlands Day, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of our rivers and wetlands. If you're inspired to support our work or learn more about your local river and wetlands, please visit our website: https://www.gvbconservancy.co.za/protecting-rivers.html You can Snapscan a donation below Together, let's protect and cherish these invaluable resources for a sustainable and resilient future.  Over the last 6 months, the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy Team has been involved in a series of environmental education days that are important to create future environmental leaders. These programmes include educational nature walks where we focus on explaining how unique our environment is, our different vegetation types (fynbos, forest and thicket pockets) and why we need to protect our rivers. On these walks we also talk about why we do alien clearing, how we do it and why it is necessary to remove alien, invasive species. We also focus on the protections of our river systems. We teach children about our unique Barrydale Redfin, which is a critically endangered species only found in the Huis River System. We monitor our river systems by implemented SASS and we share this experience by doing a mini-SASS. This activity lets them experience and observe all the tiny micro-invertebrates up-close and see both the invasive and indigenous fish species in our river systems. The schools that we have done environmental education days with this year include:
At the end of these events our team always appreciates how import and difficult a task it is to be a teacher. We really love these days and know how important they are for our collective futures. We are excited to be doing more of them… but we are also very glad that its not all we do because its hard work!
We salute the teachers out there and hope that you have a lovely Christmas Break! |
AuthorGVB Conservancy Staff Archives
September 2024
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