The Friends of Moreleta Kloof is appealing to residents to support ongoing conservation work at the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve, following extensive damage caused by recent storms.

The nature reserve is regarded as a vital ecological and recreational asset, attracting hikers, cyclists, and nature-lovers throughout the year.

However, pressure from urban development, extreme weather events, and limited resources has placed increasing strain on the reserve’s infrastructure and natural environment.

Andre Jooste from Friends of Moreleta Kloof said that community participation was central to protecting natural areas.

“These green spaces cannot survive without active public participation. Volunteers play a vital role in conservation, rehabilitation, and monitoring, especially after extreme weather events,” said Jooste.

He explained that when communities take ownership of their reserves, it ensures their long-term protection for future generations.

Jooste said challenges faced by the reserve include erosion after heavy rainfall, damage to trails and infrastructure, littering, and the spread of alien invasive plant species.

According to him, regular maintenance and rehabilitation work are essential to prevent long-term environmental degradation.

“The reserve relies heavily on volunteers to assist with activities such as trail maintenance, alien plant clearing, erosion control, and environmental awareness initiatives. Financial support is also needed to fund tools, materials and specialised rehabilitation projects.”

Jooste stressed that Friends of Moreleta Kloof is not opposed to responsible development or public use of the reserve but wants to ensure that conservation remains a priority.

“[It] is a shared asset. Responsible use, respect for the environment, and adherence to conservation rules are essential if we want to keep it accessible and healthy,” he said.

He encouraged residents, businesses and stakeholders to support conservation initiatives, whether by volunteering time, donating resources or participating in clean-up and rehabilitation efforts.

Friends of Moreleta Kloof said ongoing collaboration between the community, conservation groups and authorities is key to ensuring that Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve continues to serve both people and nature in the years to come.

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