Palmiet Nature Reserve’s boma restored
Residents are invited to enjoy the natural environment at Palmiet Nature Reserve.
AFTER four months of waiting, the boma at the Palmiet Nature Reserve in Westville has finally been restored.
According to Kenneth Mabila, conservation manager in the Parks Department, the restoration of the Palmiet Nature Reserve’s boma had been in the pipeline since 2009.
“It’s been part of my objective since my arrival in this division in November 2013 to refurbish nature reserve’s infrastructure, which includes the Palmiet Nature Reserve, Roosfontein, New Germany, Springside, Tioti, Burman Bush, Silverglen, Virginia Bush, Pigeon Valley, Paradise Valley, Turner’s Park, Umgeni Bird Park, Empisini, all DMOSS areas as well as two aqua environmental centres, Umbilo and Reunion Park,” said Mabila.
He added that the restoration of the boma cost R50 000 and will now be used for educational talks for communities and schools before and after the trail walking. He said the restoration also included the repairs to the water leak in the Frank Farrer Hall, and pressure cleaning of roof tiles on all the buildings.
Mabila also said that future plans include the upgrade of the notice boards in the boma and the refurbishment of the floor in the Frank Farrer Hall in the next financial year.
“Residents are welcome to enjoy the natural environment here at Palmiet Nature Reserve,” said Mabila.
Jean Senogles, chairman of the Palmiet Nature Reserve management committee, said they were delighted. “The boma is beautiful, up to standard and everything we could have wished for. Thank you to Mr Mabila and his team. The boma is already being used by our community which is marvellous,” said Senogles.
The reserve is currently under good management by Nosipho Ndzimbomvu and features riverine, grassland and cliff communities. There is a diversity of birds and plants and a small area of Faurea saligna woodland, cemented trails to accommodate disabled people (in wheelchairs) who wish to visit the reserve, an interpretive centre, hall, braai facility (booking required), public toilets, guided walks (booking required), self-guided walks, birding/bird hide and view sites. For bookings, contact 031 266 8015.
