Raising awareness on one of nature’s gems
With the largest population of mangrove trees in Durban, Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve importance cannot be underestimated.
NOT many of us are aware that mangrove forests can make a difference in mitigating climate change, with their ability to serve as carbon sinks. Indeed environmentalists say mangroves play a significant role as hatcheries and nurseries for marine life, as well as forming habitats for several species of plants and animals, some of which are unique and endangered.
With the largest population of mangrove trees in Durban, Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve importance cannot be underestimated. Now a group of youngsters from the Rotaract Club of Durban have made it one of their missions to raise awareness and celebrate the diversity of the 76 hectare reserve.
Kyle Bailey, a regular paddler along the uMngeni River said he sees the first hand effects of pollution on the ecosystem.
“Pollution adversely affects mangrove swamps. Pollution degrades the quality of the plant life and the water in the swamp, which in turn adversely affects the insects and animals that also live there,” he said.
Shelly Lisa Neilson, another member of the club said her appreciation for the rich biodiversity of Beachwood Mangroves has grown over the years. “We visited the reserve on a number of excursions with school, but your interests at school are very different to what they are now. It’s been amazing learning about the various species that rely on the mangroves,” said the former Our Lady of Fatima pupil.
President of the Rotaract Club of Durban, Daniela Guerrera, echoed Shelly’s thoughts saying mangrove forests are vital ecosystems in the coastal environment. “Our focus on the mangroves is one of the club’s first environmental projects this year. We want people to celebrate Durban but also rediscover some undiscovered gems like the reserve,” she said.
KZN Ezemvelo honorary officer, Jane Dinkleman, said raising awareness was one way of highlighting the importance of the nature reserve.
“Educating and creating awareness among the community about the importance of mangrove ecosystems is vital. Mangroves are important nursery areas for many species of fish. Mangroves are unique and just as important as coral reefs and tropical rain forests,” Dinkleman enthused.
