The City of Ekurhuleni (COE) is aware of the invasive plants at the Morninghill Koppie in Bedfordview and has joined forces with environmental departments to manage the area, after resident Steve Wilder called for action.
The NEWS reported in the January 22 edition that resident Steve Wilder went with a group for a nature walk and discovered a number of invasive plants in the area.
“These trees are very tenacious and ongoing monitoring and action is required,” said Wilder.
Themba Gadebe, CoE spokesperson, remarked the City is aware of the invasive plant life at the koppie and they were on sight in October/November 2019.
Gadebe added CoE worked with Joburg City Parks where the invasive plants were removed without looking at boundaries.
An action plan to clear the area of the invasive plants is underway, as per Gadebe.
“CoE officials are working in collaborations with Working for Water, Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Joburg City Parks and Zoo to ensure effective and efficient management of the area,” said Gadebe.
He said the area falls within Critical Biodiversity Area and is an important greenbelt for Gauteng.
“The implications of invasive plants are loss of biodiversity,” said Gadebe.
Gadebe said the City will send environment officials to remove the invasive plants as soon as possible.
