Hillcrest Conservancy continues to innovate
Through its most recent project, more than 20 gum trees were cut down and 60 indigenous trees were planted.
AS part of its mission to meaningfully contribute to good conservation practice, the Hillcrest Conservancy recently removed 20 large and dangerous blue gum trees and replaced these with 60 indigenous trees.
“The bio-diversity interface between Inanda Road (M33) and the rail reserve through Hillcrest was choked with gum trees and were a threat to motorists as well as an eyesore,” said the Conservancy’s chairman, George Victor.
He said the gums seed continually and this results in thousands of saplings needing to be removed on an ongoing basis, which create an extra workload for the team at the non-profit organisation.
The cleared stretch also serves as a water retention area that controls storm water surges into the Springside Nature Reserve and the lower river systems.
“As a massive seed bank, it was imperative to maintain this area as part of the eThekwini city’s sustainable water initiative,” said Victor.
Once the area was cleared, the conservancy embarked on an ambitious project to plant 60 indigenous trees, develop it into a tree park and enhance the aesthetics of the neighbouring community.
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“Motorists using the busy M33 would benefit from the attractive tree surroundings and the residential area of Hillcrest Park would benefit from the improved sound controls as well as improved air quality. Joggers and cyclists are now using the facility on the extended routes available to them,” said a proud Victor.
The trees were planted mere days before the rains arrived and because of this the trees have flourished and it has become a noticeable park.
According to Victor, much of the work was done under Covid-19 lockdown restrictions and volunteers worked in isolation and community members were not able to be involved with the project.
“We want to include the public in this project by offering the opportunity to anyone to own these 60 trees. By donating any amount from R1 per tree to R100 per tree, anyone can honestly say that they paid for everyone of these trees – this will be a fitting tribute to young folk who will walk these trails in the future,” he said.
“These donations will ensure that we leave a legacy for our children in years to come, and can be made in honour of all those who have in some way been affected by the Covid epidemic.”
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
