Volunteers keep Melville Koppies thriving and welcoming visitors
Volunteers play a vital role at Melville Koppies, helping maintain the natural heritage site, guide visitors, and preserve its unique landscape.
Without volunteers, the Melville Koppies would not be able to welcome visitors every Sunday morning to explore its unique landscape.
Over the years, volunteers have given their time and energy to maintain and enrich this natural heritage site.
One such volunteer was research scientist Peter Johnson, who dedicated himself to removing invasive alien vegetation on the Koppies.
ALSO READ: Wits students witness controlled grassland burn at Melville Koppies
Between October 2005 and October 2007, while weeding, he meticulously recorded every indigenous plant he saw twice a week and noted its flowering times.
The result of his work is a small but invaluable book titled Flowering Times on Melville Koppies.
Although Johnson died two years ago, his legacy lives on through this resource, which is available to visitors for just R50.
There are many other ways to get involved as a volunteer.
On Sundays between 08:00 and 11:30, you can assist at the reception desk or help remove invasive weeds.
ALSO READ: Discover Melville Koppies: Hiking, history, and monthly story sessions
People with fundraising skills, maintenance know-how or the ability to “fix things on a budget” are also in demand.
The Melville Koppies further welcomes volunteers to help guide school groups during the week, with training provided.
Anyone interested in volunteering can call 079 532 0083 or 072 348 0578 or email wendavid@mweb.co.za to learn more.
