Wolwekraal Conservation and Research Organisation (WCRO) is implementing the Dorps River Rehabilitation initiative, a project focused on clearing invasive Tamarix ramosissima along a 1.8 km stretch of the Dorps River on Wolwekraal Nature Reserve, near Prince Albert. The species coppices and reseeds readily, and has re-established along the river after previous clearing efforts in 2014, with current densities ranging up to 5,000 stems per hectare. Its presence reduces water availability, displaces indigenous vegetation, and compromises soil health and biodiversity. This initiative takes a practical, volunteer-driven approach by combining targeted clearing operations with local skills development to support long-term restoration of the river system.
The provided funds will be used to purchase essential tools to equip volunteer hacking groups who will clear the targeted area. Five or more community volunteers, drawn from within the WCRO and the wider Prince Albert area, will participate in hacking sessions on the reserve. Two unemployed youth will also be engaged to assist with cutting operations, providing them with temporary work and practical training in invasive alien plant management. Clearing operations will run from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, coordinated by WCRO, and aims to clear at least 1 km of the targeted area.
The initiative forms part of a broader vision to restore ecological function along the Dorps River, introduce new volunteers to Wolwekraal Nature Reserve, and create short-term employment opportunities for local youth. By removing Tamarix, the project will allow indigenous plants to re-establish along the river corridor and improve water conservation, soil health, and biodiversity. We are proud to support the WCRO in this initiative, which links river rehabilitation with community involvement in a practical and measurable way.
Organiser: Wolwekraal Conservation and Research Organisation
Project Category: Invasive Alien Clearing
Project Period: 1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027
Municipality: Prince Albert
Small Grant Awarded: R7,000