Tree committee to revitalise trees at Zoo Lake

The Zoo Lake Users Group has formed a tree committee who will seek to rehabilitate the trees in the ‘green lung’ of Joburg.

This is one of several projects aimed at revitalising the park through public participation.

Long-time Parkview resident Dr Sue Taylor, who has a background in microbiology, plant pathology and nature conservation, will head up the committee who will begin by conducting a tree audit at Zoo Lake.

“I noticed that the trees in Parkview and Zoo Lake have not looked well for some time now,” said Taylor.

The committee will work closely with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo to assess the current tree population in the park, remove alien and invasive plants, identify if there is shot-hole borer at the park, plan the planting of tree groves, label trees and plan for educational tours at the park.

“It will be wonderful to add knowledge to this park and tap into a community of arborists and become custodians of these trees, alongside the City,” said Taylor.

Taylor appeals to community members who know trees to help the committee mark and identify trees. “Anyone who is knowledgeable about trees is welcome to help and engage with us and share their ideas.”

Chair of the Zoo Lake Users Group Fran Haslam said, “I’m delighted to have this group of knowledgeable people able to take on this huge project. Together with the gardening committee, we are excited to see the revitalisation of the park.

“After travelling to Central Park and seeing how a successful park operates, we want to transform Zoo Lake to become the Central Park of Joburg using the guidelines of the Central Park Conservancy and getting advice and ideas from them.”

Haslam explained that the committee will soon survey users of the park to gather information about what they would like to see at Zoo Lake and adjust their plans to be user-friendly.

If you are able to offer your ideas or expertise, email Sue on rhtaylor@icon.co.za

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