FroK makes headway against invasive species

While efforts to eradicate alien invasive plants (AIPs) continue throughout the region with varying levels of success, the Friends of Kloofendal (FroK), says they are making progress on this front in the reserve.

Founder and chairman Steve Spottiswoode says they have largely won the battle against alien tree species like Black Wattle and Bluegum trees in the reserve, and are now focussing on smaller species like Bug Weed, Chilean Cestrum, Lantana, and Pompom Weed, among others.

He adds there have been leading efforts to combat this species through the help of reserve volunteers who look for these AIPs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Expanded Public Works Programme workers who come to assist through the intervention of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ).

“While AIPs may sound harmless, they have a significant impact on the environment because they do not have natural predators therefore; they grow throughout.

“Once plants are declared by law and regulations that they are invasive, there are different categories that take place. For example, category one means those plants shouldn’t even be there, category two means that even if you are a landowner not even supposed to sell your plants.

“There are several reasons AIPs are a threat to the environment. One reason is that they’ve taken over their local environment and they are affecting grazing, reducing crop yields and even causing skin irritation and health issues to those who have a close encounter with them. They absorb more water and minerals from the soil.”

He further explained that it’s difficult for them to say they have fully cleared AIPs because they should be removed with roots and all.

“This is not always possible or practical. Poisoning is often used but not always successful. At FroK, we also strip bark to below growth points. Each plant has its peculiarities that we get to know,” he adds.

In closing, Steve mentioned that the battle against invasive species is a collective responsibility, and more volunteers would help them make a difference.

For more information on how to assist, contact FRoK on 079 693 5608.