From October through December 2024, the Great Brak River Conservancy embarked on an ambitious mission: to restore the Wolwedans Dam trail and riverbanks by removing invasive alien vegetation. With a targeted focus on pampas, black wattle, blackwood, and gum, this initiative aimed to protect the region’s biodiversity and improve one of the area’s most cherished outdoor spaces.
The Wolwedans Dam trail, a scenic 3.2km route, is well-loved by residents and visitors alike. Following an ancient water furrow dating back to 1874, the trail winds through lush surroundings, crosses the river over a cement block, and leads hikers through the riverbed and along its banks until they reach the impressive Wolwedans Dam wall. However, over the years, invasive species had begun to take over, threatening the ecological balance and accessibility of this beautiful landscape.
Since 2019, the Great Brak River Conservancy and its dedicated volunteers have been working to clear alien vegetation in the area. Their efforts have not only improved the environment but have also revealed remarkable treasures—such as Yellowwood trees estimated to be over 400 years old. This most recent phase of clearing, made possible by a small grant from the Friends of the Biosphere Programme, allowed the Conservancy to hire an incredible Alien Clearing Team to accelerate the restoration process.
Thanks to their hard work, the trail was significantly improved just in time for the festive season, ensuring that both locals and visitors had access to a safe and scenic outdoor escape. Keeping the trail open during peak holiday months provided an opportunity to promote environmental awareness and ecotourism, reinforcing the importance of conserving biodiversity in this valued riparian zone.
The impact of this project has been remarkable. Increased awareness and accessibility have led to a noticeable rise in trail usage, with local hiking groups and community organisations—many previously unfamiliar with the trail—now organising group walks and sharing their experiences online. Some of these groups have seen nearly 100 hikers exploring the trail together! Beyond conservation, the project also had significant socioeconomic benefits. The wages provided to the Alien Clearing Team directly supported their families, contributing to local livelihoods while strengthening community engagement in conservation efforts.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Great Brak River Conservancy and the hardworking Alien Clearing Team for their dedication and impact. Their efforts have not only restored a beloved trail but also reinforced the vital connection between people and nature. We look forward to building on this success and continuing our collaboration in the future.
Organiser: Great Brak River Conservancy
Project Category: Environmental Rehabilitation
Project Period: October 2024 – January 2025
Municipality: Mossel Bay
Small Grant Awarded: R15,000
