A long-held vision has finally been realised with the creation of the 18 000 ha Karoo Gateway Conservancy in the Klaarstroom district. The Conservancy was founded by a group of local landowners and conservationists who share a deep love for nature and a passion for protecting the region’s unique fauna and flora.
Formed through a voluntary agreement between landowners, the Conservancy offers a coordinated and environmentally responsible approach to managing the landscape. This shared commitment strengthens efforts to conserve biodiversity while supporting eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture across the region.
To build awareness of this newly established conservancy, the Karoo Gateway Conservancy has launched an initiative to erect conservancy signage. These signs will help residents and visitors recognise when they are entering the Conservancy area, highlighting the importance of the local environment and encouraging people to respect and appreciate their natural surroundings.
Friends of the Biosphere is supporting the project by providing design assistance for their signage and a R3,000 small grant to support signage productions costs.
We are excited to see another conservancy established within the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve and having more stewards to help safeguard this globally significant region.
Organiser: Karoo Gateway Conservancy
Project Category: Environmental Awareness
Project Period: November 2025
Municipality: Oudtshoorn
Small Grant Awarded: R3 000