When a rhino is killed or vultures are poisoned, we feel shocked and helpless, being far removed from the localities where these insidents take place.
However, if you really care about conservation, there is a way in which you can make a very direct and physical difference in your own area.
You can become a steward or guardian of a piece of wild land, no matter how big or small.
We are losing the fight against alien plant invaders, especially on the wild lands of the lower escarpment. Towns like Barberton, Nelspruit, White River and Hazyview lie at the base of the escarpment, which is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse areas in the country.
The relatively high human population of this area and its development puts enormous pressure on the remaining pieces of natural habitat.
Alien plant invaders, veld fires and poaching are serious problems. This battle cannot be won by one or two organizations alone, but will need the sustained support of you and me.
If you are a bird watcher, nature lover, hiker or runner, why not adopt a piece of land and join a bigger group to help conserve our biodiversity?
There will be no rules or obligatons, and your level of involvement can be decided by youself. It may range from physically controlling alien plants to just monitoring activities and changes on the land.
It could be once a week or once a month. The idea is that you choose a piece of which is special to you or nearby you and arrange with the landowner that you act as guardian of the land. Doing this in a group is more enjoyable, practical and safer. It is also an excellent way to get to know the wildlife of your area.
If you are a landowner or a developer who has already set aside some land for conservation, please join our group. Vegetation types are very similar along the base of the escarpment and everybody is fighting the same alien plant species.
We can therefore learn from one another and also brag about land which is in good condition!
The plan is to set up a register of all stewards/guardians along the escarpment and the location of their land. In this way we hope to create a family of friends which care about the long term conservation of our bushveld and forests.
