THE Umdloti Conservancy and Umdloti UIP have joined forces with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in an effort to preserve and protect the pristine eMdloti coastline forest.
Two weeks ago the organisations, along with UKZN students and members of the public, conducted a floristic study of the forest, which stretches, in parts, from 6th Avenue in eMdloti to the uMhlanga Lagoon.
“Our aim is to become custodians of the forest, to protect and preserve it, similar to what has been done at Hawaan Forest. We want to save what little is left of the pristine coastal forest, which is under threat from development in the area. We hope to eradicate alien infestation and return the forest to its natural state, while preventing developments from encroaching on the the forest,” said Terry Rens of the Umdloti UIP.
According to Rens, the students will be returning periodically throughout the year to monitor the status of the forest, which will help guide the preservation efforts of the conservancy and the UIP.
Some of the indigenous fauna and flora that can be found within the forest’s eco-system include red and white milkwoods, grey and red duikers as well as a variety of snakes and birds.
“We want people to see the forest as an asset. Once the forest is restored to its pristine state, property values will increase as many people want to live close to nature, as it is, indeed, a blessing to able to live on the doorstep of such beautiful bio-diversity.”
