City Parks clears invasive species
GLEN AUSTIN – Noeleen Mattera, stakeholder and media relations for JCPZ said that mega blitz operations have been put in place for October to clear invasive species.
As part of National Alien Invasive Species Week, City Parks continued their fight against alien invasive species in Glen Austin.
The initiative is aimed to protect the environment and agriculture from invasive plants.
MMC for Community Development, Margaret Arnolds joined Ward 92 councillor Violet Chauke and Region A employees on October 20 to clear alien invasive plants including syringa, poplar, bluegum, bugweed, and mulberry.
Noeleen Mattera, media relations for City Parks, said the initiative was launched in 2015 and had since gained significant momentum in raising awareness with residents and businesses alike about the dangers of these species. “Alien invasive species could be those beautiful plants you spot in your gardens or along roads but which do not belong in a particular area, environment or country,” she said.
“They have adverse effects on our biodiversity, causing the decline and ultimate eradication of native plants through their fight for survival.”
Mattera said alien species transmit fatal pathogens which are just as harmful to humans.
The control of these alien invasive species comes at huge cost to the City, which in turn has a ripple effect on its mandate for fast and efficient service delivery, she added.
Mulalo Mbedzi, a bio-aquatics specialist at City Parks said residents of Joburg had to educate themselves and identify and eradicate alien invasive species in their gardens as these species destroy our already fragile environment.
Mattera concluded that mega blitz operations have been put in place for October where City Parks have identified areas that will be cleared of invasive species.
Details: Residents may report any invasive species in their areas, to trees@jhbcityparks.com.
