Springs resident undertakes the Murray Park restoration project
The removal of the hyacinth is estimated to take three weeks to complete.
It’s restoration fever in Springs, and Murray Park and its dam are next.
In a domino effect that has touched the hearts of many. Chaka Smith has taken it into his hands to restore the once-beloved spot for families by rehabilitating the dam.
“I was born in Springs and my passion for this town runs through my veins,” affirms Chaka.
Chaka’s son, Donovan, said he is also passionate about the town and wants to see his son benefit from its beauty.
“When I see the current state of the dam my heart breaks. I want my son to come to our backyard and play in its waters and that requires me to do something about it,” declares Donovan.
The dam in Murray Park has been plagued with hyacinth for years which has contributed to the murky waters and the decline in the marine life in the dam.
“The hyacinth is a beautiful plant, but once left unchecked, it becomes dangerous and uncontrollable – that is the case with the dam.
“It floats to the top, blocking out all sun and taking up all the oxygen and essentially starving all life in the water to death,” adds Donovan.
Chaka said he reached out to the municipality to loan an excavator and he was met with a positive experience.
“The people at the municipality were quick to respond and helped me in a timely manner.
“Even though we were met with some problems, like the excavator needing hydraulic oil, things were done and we have been able to commence with the project,” says Chaka.
ProSafe CEO Tony da Cruz was excited to mention how businesses and individuals have taken on the project of beautifying Springs.
“We have so many plans for this town because it has been good to us. It is time to give back,” says Tony.
The rest of the project will happen once the hyacinth has been removed.
