The Grootvadersbosch River is not only the lifeblood of the town of Suurbraak, but it also supports the agricultural community all
along the foot of the Langeberg Mountains.

STATE OF THE
​GROOTVADERSBOSCH RIVER

The Grootvadersbosch River is not only the lifeblood of the town of Suurbraak, but it also supports the agricultural community all along the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. It flows through the heart of the conservancy – including our ancient forests and supplies all our members with vital water for agricultural and domestic use. 

This river is not only important to people – it’s also key to our region’s special biodiversity. It’s home to thriving indigenous fish populations, not to mention diverse birdlife.

The conservancy therefore undertakes major restoration activities along the banks of this river, including removing invasive alien plant species, and where appropriate, planting indigenous plants from our nursery. 

The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy team undertook river health assessments and collected fish data to better understand the health of the river. Here’s what we found.

The current state
​of the riveR

The upper tributary of the river is in good ecological condition. Although invasive vegetation is widespread, the system remains close to a natural state and supports a healthy population of indigenous fish, although invasive species numbers are increasing.

Despite slight declines in average score per taxon (ASPT), the river health through the town of Suurbraak is still very good. Invasive alien plants are present but not dominant, and indigenous riparian vegetation remains fairly strong. Indigenous fish occur, but invasive fish species are dominant. Occasional cattle access the river and scattered litter are visible impacts at this site.

The site downstream of the town is also in good condition, with limited invasive vegetation. However, invasive fish species remain dominant in this section.

Despite the fact that there is intensive dairy farming upstream of Suurbraak, the fact that the river is in a near natural state as it flows through the town and leaves the conservancy is testament to the commitment of conservancy landowners.

Recommended actions to be takeN

• Clear invasive vegetation, particularly in the upper reaches.
  
• Prevent cattle access to the river to reduce bank erosion and pollution.
  
• Control the spread of invasive fish by preventing their transport, especially to upstream areas that remain free of invasives.
  
• Raise community awareness about the importance of invasive plant clearing and keeping the river free of litter.
  

Read the full report here

SASS5 data and fish data collected in partnership with CapeNature and the Breede Olifants Overberg Catchment Management Agency
[email protected]

CONTACT THE
​GROOTVADERSBOSCH CONSERVANCY

OFFICE HOURS: Mon to Thu: 7:30am to 5pm. Friday: 730 to 4pm. We are closed every second Friday.
MTB PERMITS: Available all hours at the Office (Cash in honesty box or Snapscan)

email

[email protected]
​

address

Map & Directions here