The Boyes Drive Alien Invasive Hacking Group meets every Tuesday morning to clear invasive plants. From left are Jaffin Mphande, Grey Yawanda, Geoffrey Kunsamba, Chris Spijker and Karen Hart.
Volunteers are helping to battle invasive plants along Boyes Drive and surrounds.
The Boyes Drive Alien Invasive Hacking Group was established in 2014 and works closely with SANParks, according to founder Karen Hart, who says they also get support from The Trails Club of South Africa (TCSA), the Friends of Silvermine Nature Area (Fosna) and individual sponsors who contribute towards the R6000 monthly costs.
Fosna committee member Martin Scholtz said they wanted to help the group as it supported the work of Fosna volunteers to clear alien vegetation from the Silvermine Nature Reserve.
“Collaboration between SANParks, Fosna and a community hacking group ensures that we work together to achieve a common goal,” Mr Scholtz said.
Fosna agreed to help fund the project with R1200 per month.
“This enables us to continue our work every Tuesday. In addition, TCSA has committed to sponsoring a gardener and covering equipment costs for the 2024 financial year, with a contribution of R3600,“ Ms Hart said.
The volunteers tackle and clear Port Jackson, and other invasive plants. They treat the stumps to prevent regrowth after cutting them down.
"Our work has not only improved the natural landscape but has also allowed indigenous flora, such as Watsonias and pincushion proteas, to thrive once again," Ms Hart said.
SANParks spokeswoman Lauren Clayton said the Boyes Drive Alien Hacking Group was helping to protect the local ecosystem.
“This is a good example of the importance of community-led initiatives in protecting our natural resources. It ensures that it is preserved for future generations to enjoy,” she said.
The group welcomes volunteers. Call Ms Hart at 083 288 4718 for details.