Protected Area Expansion Project

As part of the Zululand Conservation Trust’s long-term Protected Area Expansion initiative, the Diedricks Property - located adjacent to the Manyoni Private Game Reserve - was acquired to secure additional habitat and strengthen the ecological integrity of the region. Since its inclusion under ZCT custodianship, a number of vital rehabilitation and infrastructure activities have been undertaken to improve the ecological functioning and conservation readiness of the site.

Fenceline Spraying and Vegetation Management

Due to above-average rainfall during the reporting period, vegetation growth along the fenceline accelerated, requiring intensified maintenance efforts. Several rounds of fenceline spraying were completed to maintain visibility, access, and security. This ongoing intervention ensures that the boundary remains serviceable and free from encroachment by invasive or fast-growing plant species.

Road Maintenance

All internal roads within the Diedricks Property have been double slashed, significantly improving access for patrol, monitoring, and future development needs. Clear and passable roads are critical for land management, security, and firebreak effectiveness.

Borehole Yield Testing and Water Infrastructure Planning

A yield test was conducted on the existing borehole situated on the property. Results showed a strong supply of 1,400 litres per hour using a solar pump (operating during daylight hours), and 1,000 litres per hour via an Eskom-powered electric pump (operational 24 hours). Plans are now underway to fully equip this borehole with pumping infrastructure to ensure a reliable and sustainable water source for conservation operations.

Alien Invasive Species Clearing

A key priority for the property is the eradication of alien invasive plants to restore indigenous biodiversity. Over this period, the team conducted extensive treatment and clearing operations targeting the following species:

• Parthenium hysterophorus

• Senna pendula

• Sesbania punicea

• Lantana camara

• Chromolaena odorata

• Solanum seaforthianum

A total of 333 man-days have been invested in the intervention so far,

These interventions represent critical groundwork in preparing the Diedricks Property for its long-term role in conservation. By securing, restoring, and developing the ecological infrastructure of this strategically located portion of land, ZCT continues to expand the footprint of protected areas in northern KwaZulu-Natal, enhancing habitat availability and connectivity for endangered species.

We thank our GlobalGiving supporters for helping make this work possible.