KNR trail rehabilitation project underway

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve Association (KNRA), in partnership with the Hiking Organisation of Southern Africa, has embarked on a trail rehabilitation project.

The reserve is situated in the south of Johannesburg and is 640 hectares of veld and koppies, boasting 10 trails catering for those who wish to enjoy a gentle stroll or for the brave souls who like a challenge. Unfortunately, the trails have degraded to such an extent that they have become dangerous in parts and there have been incidents hikers being injured.

With this in mind, the KNRA entered into negotiations with, and eventually secured the services of Albert Bossert, an expert in this field. Bossert assessed the state of the trails and structured a rehabilitation plan, which would include the training of volunteers, Mellow Manthosi and EPWP (Expanded Public Works Programme) workers in trail maintenance and management.

Following the initial four-day training, Mellow and the EPWP team worked on the Sunbird (Red) Trail for six days. On December 5 their efforts were bolstered by the arrival of Bossert and his team who were on site to guide and assist in further rehabilitation for 10 days.

The commissioning of the report, the training and the actual rehabilitation is by no means an inexpensive exercise. The generosity of the public who donate to the KNRA or support the functions and events held throughout the year enabled the committee to release the necessary funds to commence the rehabilitation before the start of the December holiday.

“The KNRA would like to thank all involved and especially the generosity of the public, without which none of this would be possible. We look forward to working with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoos (JCPZ), under whose management the KNR falls, to ensure that our trails reach the level of Green Flag status,” said Cathy Naudé, from the KNRA.

“We will keep the community updated on the progress of the trails as well as any future projects embarked upon using individual and business/organisation donations,” she added.

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