We continued where we left off last month in the area bounded largely by Vlei Road, where we returned to the dense masses of Myrtle. Access this month was a little more difficult after the recent rains.
The main bulk was, as before, smaller ‘weeds’ and seedlings, which meant a lot of hand- and popper work. A couple of the chainsaw operators and assistants looked a little further afield and found some lone larger trees. The difference that we made was, as ever, incredible. The main infestation has been cleared. I’m sure that there will be some seeds sprouting in the future, but there will be a great opportunity for the indigenous fynbos to return as it already has in the less infested areas.
We have succeeded in the area we accessed, an area of about 50m x 50m, with a removed content of thousands – literally – of small myrtles. We also removed a few Banksia bushes.
We found some indigenous inhabitants, including an Arum Lily frog, which is endemic to the Western and Eastern Cape, from Cape Town to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).
Well done to all 28 of us, including our new arrivals Sarah and Chris. We hope to see you often in the future.
It was a very timely hack, as we were not much inconvenienced by the rising water level in the vlei. However, we will not be having as easy an access if we need to go there soon!
Many thanks, as always, on behalf of the Betty’s Bay Fynbos, to each and every one of the hackers for the amazing results.
Thanks also to Willem & Jeremy for the images.
The most welcome drinks and delicious sandwiches were produced by Anne, with the able assistance of Betsey. Thank you both!
Dave Mourant
Convener of the Betty’ Bay Hack Group
