Umzimkhulu River Forest Restoration

Project Budget

R320,000 over 2 years 7 months

Project Background

The Umzimkhulu is the 2nd largest river in KZN and contains extensive aquatic life including 39 fish species, loggerhead turtle, bull shark and otter.
The project goal is restoration of forest plant biodiversity and rehabilitation of wildlife. It targets a section of coastal lowland forest above the estuary which is home to blue and grey duiker, bushbuck, bush pig, caracal, serval, porcupine and many reptile species including African rock python. The forest contains over 100 bird species including a 14 year-old African Fish Eagle nest. To date there are 343 indigenous plant and tree species that have been identified including endemics and rare species.
The encroachment of invasive alien plant species is degrading this pristine piece of forest and needs to be eradicated.

Project Duration

APRIL 2017 – MARCH 2019

• Methodology: Identify invasive alien species, cut and herbicide the alien plant and tree species
• Labour: 13 local labourers, 1 supervisor and 1 manager. Train 12 in herbicide application and 1 chainsaw operator.
• Scope: Starting on the west side river bank near Batstone Drift work along the river course for 1.5km.to the Port Shepstone golf course.
• Maintenance Plan: 4 follow-ups approximately 6 months apart depending on the regrowth.

Contact Details

Name: Umtentweni Conservancy
Location: Port Shepstone, Lower South Coast (See Google map below)
Contact person: Alex Skene
Contact number: 083 556 3182
Email: skenea@gmail.com
Email: info@umtentweniconservancy.co.za
Facebook: @TweniConservancy

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