Grootbos Foundation Monthly Update | September 2023

04 October

General

Grootbos Foundation September Update

Welcome to the inaugural Grootbos Foundation Monthly Blog. We are delighted to share the latest news, developments, and heartwarming stories from our world of conservation and community empowerment. As we embark on this monthly adventure together, we aim to keep you informed and inspired by the transformative work being done by the Grootbos Foundation.

A New Face at The Foundation | Welcome Leigh

Leigh Berg recently joined us at the Grootbos Foundation as the new Operations Manager. With her extensive background in the public, private and NPO sectors, her unwavering dedication to driving positive change in our country and her delightful sense of humour, she has already become an integral part of the team.  

Leigh approaches every question or challenge with a sparkle in her eye and a spring in her step. We welcome Leigh to the team!

A Bold Conservation Move | Giant Periwinkle Farm Signs 99-Year Servitude Agreement

One of the more exciting developments to come from our conservation team is the addition of a portion of private land signed over to the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy.

Owners of the surround farm called Giant Periwinkle, who are already members of the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy, made the decision to sign a legally binding contract which identifies a particular area of their farm which will remain free from any and all development or agricultural activity, to be protected for its natural biodiversity. 

This servitude agreement is legally binding for 99 years regardless of land ownership changes, making it extremely significant for conservation momentum. Our team went to Giant Periwinkle to celebrate the official signing. Nature itself was quietly jubilant in its own unique way, too. We are proud of the growing conservation commitment of so many in the region.

Entrepreneurship Programme Milestone | Stock and Equipment Buying Trip

As part of our Entrepreneurship Programme, eight new business owners from the Hermanus and Gansbaai area travelled to Cape Town to buy the stock and equipment they identified as necessary to start their businesses. For these new entrepreneurs the new stock and vital equipment will be the start of their journey to being successful business owners and leaders in their communities. 

Biodiversity Stewardship | A Day of Bulb 'Search and Rescue

The biodiversity stewards dedicated a day to perform a 'search and rescue' mission for bulbs, providing a fantastic learning experience and enhancing the team's skills. This newfound expertise will enhance their readiness for future rehabilitation projects, adding another valuable tool to their repertoire. As a result, they are becoming increasingly valuable contributors to active conservation efforts in the fynbos landscape.

Entomology Team | Spring Fieldwork

The entomology team has kicked off the spring fieldwork collecting insects for the Overberg Strandveld Fynbos Pentad Project. They used two different methods for sampling, namely, the active survey where they use nets and sweep the fynbos for insects and the passive collection through bowl traps that are stationary in the fynbos. The insects collected will be pinned and identified and added to our catalogue of insects found on the conservancy. There may even be a brand new species to science hiding in the mix!

A Raptor Captured | Camera Traps At Work

This stunning photo was captured by our motion sensor camera traps on Grootbos Nature Reserve. In this photograph, a Jackal Buzzard gracefully lands near a bushbuck carcass, engaging in scavenging. Let's give credit to our skilled Conservancy Manager, Mike, for his expertise in strategically placing these camera traps to capture such exceptional shots!

Another inspiring and impactful month has passed here at the Grootbos Foundation. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support from our dedicated team, generous donors, and passionate volunteers who continue to contribute to our mission of conserving the precious biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom while uplifting the communities that call this region home.