Invasive riparian species control and forest landscape restoration leveraging private engagement

In the south of the Western Cape of South Africa, preserving natural Afromontane Forest patches is a paramount concern. Amid this landscape, the Grootvadersbosch Forest stands strong, spanning 430 hectares as the region's largest forest patch. Yet, beyond its borders, fragmented forest patches dot the agricultural expanse. Modernity is coming dangerously close to these ecosystems from several sides: through the steady expansion of agriculture, the spread of invasive alien plants, and through changing fire patterns due to climate change and land use. Since 2014, over 55 kilometres of riparian land has been cleared of invasive vegetation, revealing a glimmer of hope. Nevertheless, the project is poised for active restoration, an endeavour to rejuvenate the forests' vitality. These forthcoming steps, coupled with dedicated invasive alien vegetation control, will bolster the fragmented forest patches.