STREAM RESTORATION PROJECT UNDERWAY!

The aim is to create a larger wetland/pond area where the three streams meet, as well as to install indigenous plants around the pond. Local community members have already begun installing plants along the stream bank, and we plan to build on that.

The project commenced on March 28, when we were assisted by three workers; Sphe, Nkosinathi and Richard. The second work day took place on April 2.

Our initial efforts are focused on clearing away earth to enlarge the water catchment area - this is what we’ve primarily been working on over the past two workdays.

The next step will be, with permission from the City of Cape Town—which we expect to receive soon—to remove some of the concrete from the canals in the park. The goal is to restore the waterways to a more natural, wetland-like state, which will benefit fauna and flora.

We hope that the wetland/ pond will become a focal point for the community, helping us raise awareness and gain support for our other efforts along the Westlake River.

We’re also planning to begin clearing a pilot section of the riverbank (Westlake River) to remove invasive reeds and replant the area with fynbos and other indigenous plants. Much of our work will continue to focus on clearing the river of invasive species, preventing their spread, as well as removing litter and installing litter traps.

Other aspects of the project coming up in the next few months include continued work on our riverside garden.

A particularly exciting part of the project will be the creation of floating wetlands on the river. These will create habitats for wildlife and, importantly, serve as additional water filters. They will also provide a space to propagate more plants.

The above projects are being undertaken in conjunction with the Zandvlei Catchment Management Forum. We also have the full support of the City of Cape Town, for which we are grateful.