The recently revived Friends of Paardevlei group celebrated a significant milestone this past month, successfully hosting their first-ever environmental “hack” events aimed at clearing invasive vegetation from the historic site.
The initiative, which seeks to protect the area’s ecological integrity, saw community members gather on two separate occasions to tackle the spread of unwanted flora.
Tiffany Schultz, chairperson of Friends of Paardevlei, described the turnout as an inspiring display of communal spirit. She said the events were well-supported by various local groups, the first hack drawing about 15 volunteers.
“It was an inspiring day and so exciting for us to have our first official involvement in what will become a nature reserve.”
Schultz noted the diversity of the volunteers, which was particularly heartening, with young and old working side-by-side to reclaim the landscape.
The primary target of these initial hacks was Echium plantagineum, commonly known as Patterson’s Curse. While the plant is known for its vivid purple flowers, it is a highly invasive species that threatens indigenous vegetation.
The volunteers focused on clearing huge patches of the weed before the dreaded purple flowers could go to seed, a critical window of time for effective pest-plant management.
Schultz also acknowledged the local bird club, Lourens River Conservation Society and Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement, which supported by providing staff to help clear the pathways. The event marked the first official collaboration regarding the future of the site, destined to become a formal nature reserve.
The clean-up was also supported by Dave Morris of Biodiversity Management, who provided guidance to the volunteers.
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