With support from the Friends of the Biosphere programme, Fransmanshoek Conservancy launched a hands-on project to remove invasive Rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) and restore the natural vegetation in a small area, to start with, in Fransmanshoek.
The project aimed to restore ecological balance to a degraded fynbos section within the Conservancy by removing invasive Rooikrans, rehabilitating the natural vegetation, and empowering the Student Rangers through hands-on conservation experience. The project covered 1,778 m2 with a perimeter of 433 metres, which was covered in a dense population of Rooikrans, and resulted in the complete removal of invasive biomass and the re-establishment of native plant recovery processes. Through planning, ecological best practices, and adaptive teamwork, the Conservancy achieved significant improvements in biodiversity recovery, fire-risk reduction, and soil stabilization.
The Friends Small Grant was used to purchase much-needed protective gear and clearing tools, ensuring the team was equipped to work safely and effectively. Once cleared, the alien biomass was chipped and repurposed, with the cleared sites monitored for regrowth and gradually rehabilitated with indigenous species.
We’re proud to have supported the team at Fransmanshoek Conservancy as they took on this important work and helped to restore balance to the land they protect.
Organiser: Fransmanshoek Conservancy
Project Category: Environmental Rehabilitation
Project Period August – October 2025
Municipality: Mossel Bay
Small Grant Awarded: R3 000
