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Friends of Paardevlei hack alien invaders at the wetland

District Mail and Helderberg Gazette

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26 Aug 2026

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Mae Winzker clearing invasive species at Paardevlei environmental hack. — Mae Winzker proved age is no barrier to conservation, clearing invasive species at Paardevlei on Saturday (22 August). Photo: Tiffany Schultz Photography

Friends of Paardevlei hack alien invaders at the wetland

District Mail and Helderberg Gazette

|

26 Aug 2026

Share this article:

Friends of Paardevlei held their third environmental “hack” on Saturday 22 August, with 15 volunteers removing invasive vegetation from the vlei.

Volunteers stand behind pile of invasive plants removed during Paardevlei environmental hack. — Alison Lombard, Elma Pollard, Riel Tredoux, Neil Hoy, Arthur Dickinson and Beth Schultz standing proudly behind a pile of Patterson’s curse and blue lupins.

The revived group targeted Patterson’s curse (Echium plantagineum) and blue lupins (Lupinus angustifolius) in its first hack of the year, following two events last year. Chairperson Tiffany Schultz said invasive species around the vlei’s entrance were significantly reduced during the community action.

Alison Lombard tosses invasive plants at Paardevlei environmental hack. — Alison Lombard tosses invasive species that threaten indigenous plants, soil health and wildlife, demonstrating why hacks are essential for maintaining biodiversity.

Tiffany Schultz clearing invasive vegetation during Paardevlei environmental hack. — Chairperson Tiffany Schultz tackles invasive species as the group works toward their dream, though City subdivision procedures mean the official opening won’t happen until early next year.

The initiative, organised with the City of Cape Town’s Biodiversity Management branch, aims to protect the area’s ecological integrity and pave the way for nature-reserve status.

Riel Tredoux, Tiffany and Beth Schultz remove invasive plants at Paardevlei. — Riel Tredoux, Tiffany and Beth Schultz in action, demonstrating how hacking offers a wonderful way to be active outdoors, connect with fellow environmental enthusiasts and actively enhance local biodiversity.

If you would like more information or want to get involved, contact Schultz on 083 648 1324 or via their Facebook page: Friends of Paardevlei Wetland

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