Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve
Any contributed funds will be used for resources needed to ensure alien clearing and restoration of critically endangered fynbos (i.e. equipment, workers, vehicles etc.).
The Kogelberg biosphere reserve was the first biosphere reserve in South Africa. Covering an area of more than 103 000 ha (approximately 254 518.5 acres), this pristine biosphere reserve falls within the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest and only wholly endemic floral kingdom in the world!
Apart from the 1 880 species of Fynbos, the biosphere reserve also includes a marine component which boasts more than 3 500 endemic marine species, leading it to being proclaimed a Protected Marine Area. In order to support thriving societies in harmony within the biosphere:, the KBR needs to ensure cooperation between all role players, including government institutions, NGOs, farming, fishing and other commercial interests. To achieve this, the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve plays a central coordinating role, bringing commercial entities and residents together to strengthen collective action.
Alien clearing project
Our project to clear invasive alien plants in threatened fynbos in the Kogelberg Biosphere has received new momentum. A huge thank you to the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, LandCare division, for funding clearing work starting in July 2024, in cooperation with the Groenland Water User Association.
A team of 12 will be working in Critically Endangered Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos and Ruens Silcrete Renosterveld. The goal is to reduce flammable material to reduce wildfire risks, conserve water, protect fynbos, and create employment for a small business owner and his team.
We’ll be working in partnership with Arabella Hotel Golf & Spa, Southern Sun, to focus on removing Australian myrtle, Port jackson, Black wattle and other invasive plants. We’ll also assist landowners at Ithemba Property and Agriculture to undertake follow-up clearing on the areas previously worked on.
