EDITOR – The open meeting of Toti Conservancy held on Monday, 10 February was well-attended and the presentations by eThekwini water pollution control were informative.
However, it became clear in heated debate following the presentations that the community is more interested in what the authorities are doing about the current state of our rivers. In particular, the problem of water hyacinth in the Amanzimtoti River and Pistia (water lettuce) in the Little Amanzimtoti River, is clearly cause for concern.
Our local natural resources workforce spent a full day recently removing water hyacinth from the river in the vicinity of the cricket grounds. I am daily aware of hyacinth that floats down into the lagoon and, if against the east bank, I spend time raking and pulling the plants up onto the bank. I see these plants as both a problem and a resource, as we use them as mulch to stabilise and build up the edges of existing sand dunes close to the lagoon. The hyacinth is nutrient rich, and also makes excellent compost for our dune plants.
My challenge to all: Do not complain about the state of our rivers, do not ask what they are doing, but consider the possibility that you could be part of the solution. Do you have an hour to spare in a week, in a month? Do you have a gardener, who could occasionally be spared for an hour or two?
If you are genuinely concerned and are willing to make a difference, you are welcome to contact me on 084-781-2019
084-781-2019.
Prior contact is not necessary, however, as all you need are eyes to see where you could work safely and comfortably, a rake, gum boots and water-proof gloves (optional) and suitable work clothes.
