Wessa’s new committee elected
The newly elected committee are eager to start their new term.
The Springs/Nigel branch of the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA (Wessa) recently selected its new committee.
Justin Donaldson, the new chairman, says the organisation’s main objective is habitat management.
The new committee members are: Ron Burrows (vice-chairman), Steve Langton (treasurer), Mary Burrows (assistant treasurer), Dee Johnson (secretary), Mike Severin (environment impact assessments), Anneliese Donaldson, Cheryl Law, Peter Law, Mike Hood, Nan Hodgson, Peter Behrmann, Margie Langton, Tom Scott, Glynis Scott, Jenny Mackenzie, Mark Norman, Chris Hitchinson, Frans Rokebrand and Stan Madden.
At the meeting, Justin stressed the necessity of reed spraying at the Ramsar site, which comprises Marievale Bird Sanctuary, the Grootvaly Trust in Springs, and a number of privately owned properties near the Blesbokspruit.
He says spraying with a non-toxic herbicide had proven to open up areas of wader habitat, which is so important for resident and visiting migrant birds.
Several other points came under discussion, including the group of volunteers operating under the umbrella of the Wessa branch, Friends of Marievale, who have been responsible for the repair and maintenance of bird hides, picnic tables, new braais, toilets and painting for the past year.
They have put up a large map, depicting the roads and facilities, on the wall of the conference centre.
Justin says involvement in environment impact assessment studies is ongoing, with acid mine drainage and the proposed coal terminal at Largo being monitored.
Ongoing support from Wessa is given to Wildlife in Crisis, located in Vischkuil, who take in injured birds and wildlife.
“It would not have been possible without our sponsors,” says Justin.
