Community Forum leads clean-up at Garsfontein Reservoir
Residents of Moreletapark joined forces with the Community Caring Forum (CCF) to remove invasive Black Wattle trees near the reservoir, thereby restoring biodiversity and enhancing security.
Through a Community Upliftment Precinct (CUP), the Pretoria East Community Caring Forum (CCF) and Emperors Estate residents recently embarked on a major clean-up campaign at the Garsfontein Reservoir along Wekker Road.
According to the CCF, the reservoir is critical infrastructure serving the greater Moreleta Park community, making its maintenance and security a top priority.
Founding Director of the CCF Deirdré van Helsdingen said concerns about the spread of invasive Black Wattle trees, raised by residents of Emperors Estate, especially those along Grotius Street, sparked the initiative.
She said that although native to south-eastern Australia, the Black Wattle has spread aggressively in South Africa, posing a threat to indigenous vegetation and local ecosystems.
“Because the trees were close to the boundary wall and electric fence of the neighbouring estate, we made this project a priority,” said Van Helsdingen.
She especially thanked Freek and Betsie Kruger, who initiated the clean-up, collected funds, and organised chainsaws.
“The City of Tshwane also supported the effort by providing weed-control herbicide, which was applied to tree stumps to prevent regrowth.”
According to Van Helsdingen, the main objective of the project was to halt the spread of invasive trees and create space for indigenous species, restoring the natural balance and improving biodiversity.
“Our goal is to ensure a healthier ecosystem for residents and wildlife alike,” she said.
She said community-driven projects show what they can achieve when residents work together for a cleaner, safer neighbourhood.
“In addition to the environmental benefits, safety and security were also addressed. Clearing the area has improved visibility for surveillance cameras, reducing potential risks to nearby residents,” she explained.
According to Van Helsdingen, the clean-up was not without its difficulties.
“The steep terrain made access impossible for vehicles, requiring all cut trees to be carried out manually. However, community spirit prevailed, and teamwork carried us through,” she said.
She added that the support from residents and businesses played a key role, with Hire-It sponsoring chainsaws and Emperors Estate residents contributing funds.
Looking ahead, Van Helsdingen emphasised the need for ongoing community involvement.
“The hard reality is that Tshwane does not have the funds to manage everything. If we, as a community, don’t stand together, our suburb will deteriorate further,” she said.
Residents and businesses who wish to assist in maintaining and securing the area can contact info@ccf-group.co.za for more details.
“Every small contribution makes a difference, whether it’s time, resources or financial support.”
She extended her gratitude to workers, sponsors, as well as contracted workers who made significant contributions.
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