THE Botanical Society of South Africa KZN Coastal Branch presents an illustrated talk by Barry James entitled Indigenous Woods: A Sustainable Resource? at the Durban Botanic Gardens' Visitors Centre on Monday, 26 September at 6pm.
Most commercial wood grown in South Africa is obtained from introduced species. Indigenous species have not historically been grown commercially and it is unlikely this will happen in the future, yet there is a wide range of beautiful local timber potentially available from many different sources. The environmental and legal issues associated with utilising local woods are discussed. The practicalities of harvesting and processing indigenous wood will be explained.
Barry James is an ecologist and environmental consultant who is completing his PhD on the sustainable use of southern African woods. He is a co-author of the new book, Guide to the properties and uses of Southern African Wood, which will be available for sale at the talk (R450, with R20 per book sold going to BotSoc). Barry’s hobbies include woodworking and woodturning using indigenous timber.
All welcome. Entrance, including refreshments, is R40 for members of BotSoc and the Friends of Durban Botanic Gardens, R60 for visitors and R30 for students with cards. Pay at the door. No need to book. For enquiries, email: botsoc-kzn@mweb.co.za or contact 031 201 5111 or 071 869 3693.
Proceeds will go to BotSoc branch projects.
