Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning

The DEADP responded as follows:

Through the implementation of the Berg River Improvement Plan, active clearing of invasive alien vegetation has been undertaken, in conjunction with the efforts of the LandCare Programme of the Department of Agriculture, on private property within the Berg River catchment. The approach that has been adopted is to work with willing private property owners, to promote greater stewardship for the proper management and care of our natural resources. The rehabilitation programme of the Berg River Improvement Plan, contributes to the management and continued clearing of invasive trees and other plants through frequent follow-ups in rehabilitated areas, preventing the possible return and re-infestation.

Much of the clearing and management of alien invasive trees and other plants on private property are undertaken by the Working for Water Programme and its mandate, of the National Department of Environmental Affairs. Therefore, clearing and rehabilitation efforts of the Department and CapeNature are done in communication with the Working for Water Programme, to ensure such activities are properly coordinated.

CapeNature responded as follows:

Yes, CapeNature is actively involved in the eradication of invasive fauna and flora species on private property. In terms of invasive fauna species, CapeNature controls the eradication of feral pigs and wild boar in the Boland near Wellington and invasive alien fish such as the smallmouth bass and bluegill sunfish in the Rondegat River in the Cederberg. Furthermore, CapeNature provides regular input into the Cape Action Plan for People and the Environment (CAPE) Invasive Alien Animal Working Group, which oversees the control of invasive Indian House Crows, Mallard Ducks and guttural toads in the City of Cape Town.

In terms of the eradication of flora, CapeNature is involved in the clearing of black wattle and blue gum trees on private properties in the Western Cape.