Melville Koppies, a rare and precious example of the endangered Highveld grassland biome, stands as a testament to the resilience of nature in the face of extensive urban development and agricultural expansion.
Melville Koppies conservationist Wendy Carstens explains that this unique biome, characterised by its exceptional biodiversity, hosts a diverse array of grasses, flowers with underground stems, indigenous bushes, and trees. “These species have evolved to thrive in an environment where fire plays a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of this ecosystem.”
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However, the grasslands face significant threats from rising CO2 levels, global warming, and increased rainfall, all of which encourage the encroachment of both alien and indigenous bushes and trees.
Carstens mentions that the conservationists at Melville Koppies have been diligently implementing fire management plans and maintaining records of fires since 1959 when the area was designated as a nature reserve.
“These plans include careful assessment of grass loads before burning, the creation of 5m firebreaks prior to controlled block burning, and the use of backpack water sprayers and ample 5L water containers to ensure safety during controlled burns.”
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Nevertheless, the efforts of conservationists are sometimes thwarted by trespassers who ignite small fires that can spread rapidly in areas without firebreaks. Hence, to protect the fences and borders of adjacent properties, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) undertakes the crucial task of cutting 5m firebreaks around all the Central and East Melville Koppies perimeters approximately three times a year.
Additionally, Johannesburg City Power has taken a significant step this year by cutting and raking all the grass under the overhead pylon wires, creating a 40m wide swathe of cut grass. Despite these measures, uncontrolled windswept fires, often set by individuals, frequently sweep across Melville Koppies East, posing a significant challenge.
Carstens further explained that the Brixton, Rosebank, and Roosevelt Park fire stations face shortages of adequate equipment for grass fires, relying on a few individuals with grass beaters made of old fire hoses.
“As fire engines cannot access the koppies without causing damage to the grasslands, it is crucial for neighboring property owners to take proactive measures to fireproof their garden borders, fences, and walls.”
This involves removing dead plant debris, compost heaps, weeds, creepers, long grass, and overhanging bushes and trees along the borders and maintaining a clear 5m perimeter.
Neighbours are also encouraged to keep a 5m perimeter on their koppies side clear of weeds and have hosepipes readily available to combat any high-flying fire sparks.
Annual reminders are issued to neighbours regarding their responsibility for border control. The ongoing efforts of the conservationists, alongside responsible neighbouring property owners, is important in preserving this unique and valuable ecosystem.
“As the fire season approaches each year, the continuation of these collective efforts will ensure the ongoing protection of Melville Koppies, preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations to cherish.”
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