Annual Korsman burn a success
“This is like a festival of life, we need to burn parts in order to encourage nature’s rejuvenation.”
Equipped with fire-resistant gloves and sensible shoes, a group of 13 volunteers entered the confines of Korsman Bird Sanctuary to participate in the annual burn on August 11.
Following a safety briefing, supporters of the Korsman Conservancy grabbed their tools and fire was set to the dried grass, sending plumes of grey smoke across the water.
As the birds started raising alarm, fluttering to nearby trees, conservancy chairperson Jane Trembath said although the wildlife, which flourishes around the pan, will naturally flee from the threat of fire, they will soon return to their home once the controlled burn has been extinguished.
“Controlled burns are an essential tool in grassland management to ensure that dead plants are destroyed in order to promote the growth of indigenous wildflowers,” she said.
“We ensure that each section is burnt every third year to optimally stimulate the biodiversity thus promoting plant growth.”
She said that the estimated 1.5-hectare area, which formed part of this year’s burn, had been meticulously prepared with adequate firebreaks to prevent the spread of the fire.
Firebreaks were also made around any nests found on the ground.
“Once everything was in place, I carefully monitored the weather waiting for the perfect wind conditions,” she said.
“Ideally we want to burn down-wind, which slows the spread of the flames making it easier to control and safer for everyone involved. Fortune was in our favour and the process went down without any incident.”
Armed with a rake to drag the fire creating a backburn, Yolani Stamiland said that being actively involved in the various conservancy projects is her way of giving back to nature.
“We have a great deal of fun and always learn so much from Jane,” she said.
Eileen Ritchie said that it has become necessary for such interventions due to human settlement encroaching on nature.
“I adore the sanctuary and have witnessed remarkable things among the thicket,” said Ritchie.
“To continue enjoying this splendour, I need to roll up my sleeves and help nature along.”
Looking as the golden grass goes up in flames, Heather Griffin said that although it is terrible to see the burnt patch of grass, it is magical to witness how green shoots suddenly appear in its place.
“It is like magic and truly miraculous how life springs out of destruction,” she said.
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