By Annie Peatling | Funding & Reporting | Zululand Conservation Trust
Dear GlobalGiving Family,
We are excited to bring you an update on the ongoing progress of our Protected Area Expansion Project, which continues to focus on rehabilitating newly incorporated land into the Manyoni Private Game Reserve.
1. Securing the Fenceline for Big Game
Since incorporating the additional 500 hectares of land into the reserve, we have made significant strides in re-securing the fenceline to ensure that it is suitable for big game species, such as black rhinos. This step is essential to maintain the integrity and safety of the reserve and its wildlife as we expand the area’s carrying capacity. The fencing project has required substantial effort, and we continue to prioritize its completion.
2. Tackling Alien Invasive Plants and Habitat Rehabilitation
One of the most challenging yet crucial tasks in rehabilitating this land has been the removal of alien invasive species and encroaching vegetation like sickle bush. Clearing these plants is vital for restoring the land to its natural state and improving its biodiversity. Healthy, alien-free ecosystems are essential for creating sustainable habitats that can support a wide range of species, including endangered ones.
Our focus on controlling these invasive species through manual labor creates jobs for the surrounding communities, offering both environmental and economic benefits. We are actively seeking funding to support a dedicated team of local employees to manually clear this vegetation. While drones may assist with spraying certain areas from the air, manual clearing remains critical in effectively managing the landscape.
3. Job Creation and Community Empowerment
This project not only serves conservation efforts but also brings tangible benefits to the local community through job creation. By employing members from the surrounding areas to assist in vegetation clearing, we are contributing to the local economy and fostering a sense of ownership and involvement in conservation. The rehabilitation of this land is a long-term commitment, and ongoing support is vital for its success.
4. Future Plans and Funding Needs
As we continue with this mammoth task, securing additional funds remains a priority to ensure the sustainability of these efforts. Funding will allow us to maintain the team, expand our clearing operations, and potentially integrate more advanced methods, such as drone spraying, to manage the vast area efficiently.
Your support has been instrumental in the progress we’ve made so far, and we look forward to continuing this important work with your help. Together, we can transform this land into a thriving, high-quality game reserve, contributing to the protection of endangered species and preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
Thank you for being an essential part of this conservation journey.
By Annie Peatling | Funding & Reporting | Zululand Conservation Trust
By Cyanne Babilon | Project Manager
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