Beachwood Mangroves reserve hosts open day

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’s importance cannot be underestimated.

Now the North Durban Honorary Officers are hoping to raise awareness and celebrate the diversity of the 76-hectare reserve at its open day on Friday, 1 May from 9am to 4pm.

One of the officers, Jane Dinkleman, took some time out to talk to the Northglen News about what to expect and the importance of the reserve.

“Besides having the largest population of mangrove trees in the Durban area, we also have more than a million crabs, as well as KZN dwarf chameleons, water mongoose and climbing whelks (a type of sea snail). The open day is all about raising awareness for the reserve, it’s one of nature’s gems right in the heart of the uMgeni. The open day is a chance for us to share this with everyone, and on the day we’ll have a number of interactive displays showcasing our conservation efforts. There will also be a number of foot stalls, guided walks, raffles and children’s activities.

“The best part is entrance is free. All of our work is voluntary and we do it for the love of nature and for this reserve, which is one of a kind. Mangroves are unique and just as important as coral reefs and tropical rain forests,” Dinkleman said.
The day will also see the opening of the newly-furnished educational centre. In February last year vandals torched the old wooden education centre, established in 1989.

“Some of the artifacts destroyed in the education centre fire included a mini museum, newspaper clippings dating back to the 1960s and even the jawbone of a sperm whale which washed up near Beachwood a few years ago.

“We were devastated when the fire tore through the centre so we are all looking forward to a new start and to show off the new and improved education centre,” she said.

For more information, call 084 610 0012.