Moot resident looking for a long-term solution for local spring

Residents feel more should be done to preserve the Moot spring, which is one of the most important waterways in the area.

For many years, the spring has been subject to extensive dumping and littering by members of the public, which threatens the quality of the water and the biodiversity it offers.

The spring runs through several areas of the Moot, including Waverley and Wonderboom-South and feeds directly into the Apies River.

Earlier this week, resident Stephen Sutherland came across two Egyptian geese wandering around the spring in Rietfontein.

“I heard a commotion outside my house in 18th Avenue and went to take a look,” he said.

“I saw two women herding two female geese and 10 small ducklings towards the spring close to our house. We also went down there and tried to usher them closer to the spring, away from the road where they could get hit by cars.”

Sutherland, who has a deep love for nature, wants to look for ways to protect the geese and other wildlife living in and around the spring.

“I have known for a long time that something needs to be done about the spring, but when I saw these geese I realised there is more needed to be done here than we might think,” he said.

“This spring plays a vital role in the biodiversity of the area; so it is of vital importance we take care of it. It is in the interest of everyone who wants to enjoy a good quality of life.”

He also bemoaned the state of local infrastructure, which has made it more and more difficult to maintain the spring.

Ward councillor Mari Joubert has arranged many clean-ups along the spring since taking on the role, but agreed that more can be done.

“The response from the community has been great, especially from AfriForum and others. People have shown they are willing to get their hands dirty to help the environment,” she said.

Joubert and Sutherland are pleased to see that some residents who live close to the spring are doing their part by keeping their front yards clean and neat.

“Trimming the grass is also an effective way of preventing crime as it provides thieves with a place to hide.

“It’s always good to see people taking pride in their surroundings. It’s often small acts like this that can inspire others to do the same,” said Sutherland.

He believes that a grassroots approach would be the most effective.

“If we can educate children at a young age, then we can secure a future where the environment is taken care of.”

He said it is also important to note that the spring serves as a wetland and is therefore vital in ensuring and maintaining water quality in the area.

Joubert said she will arrange a council meeting to get as many people as possible involved in the project.

“I think if more people will get onboard if they come here and see for themselves how dire the situation is.

“At the end of the day, we all share the same water. It is in our mutual interest to ensure the spring is taken care of,” she said.

“Educating the youth will also go a long way in coming up with solutions.”

Sutherland and Joubert called on any Rekord readers with a background in environmentalism to come forward with any ideas.

“We need all the help we can. I know there are people in this country who possess the knowledge and skills we need to protect this spring,” said Sutherland.

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