Invasive species
Kleinmond’s volunteers typically work on removing invasive plants on the third Tuesday of each month for three hours, with some volunteers also doing additional ad hoc work on their own.
This group of between 15 and 20 men and women removed:
- 56 670 invasive plants in 2023
- 43 821 invasive plants in 2024
- 37 005 invasive plants in 2025
- 14 392 invasive plants in the first 7 months of 2026.
Their dedication and hard work are making a significant difference in preserving the natural environment of the Kleinmond area.
The species of invasive plants removed include Australian myrtle, Port Jackson, long-leaved wattle, black wattle, rooikrans, horseweed, hakea, eucalyptus trees and pine trees.
As residents of Kleinmond, we are fortunate to live in the Kogelberg Biosphere and it is our responsibility to preserve this treasure of fynbos diversity. Invasive species pose one of the greatest threats to our fynbos, easily taking over if not continuously controlled.
Unfortunately, many of these dangerous invaders thrive in gardens in the town and spread their seeds to the natural environment surrounding the town.
Australian myrtles are often planted as hedges. Pine trees, eucalyptus trees and black wattle are allowed in yards because they provide shade. Admittedly, many of these species were previously planted because they are hardy, fast-growing, and suited to the coastal environment. However, we now know that it is precisely these species that can easily and quickly take over the fynbos areas. It is crucial for us to be mindful of the impact of these invasive species on our precious fynbos and to take proactive measures to control and prevent their spread.
Conservation zones
Volunteers’ work on controlling invasive species rotates through these conservation zones, to ensure that all areas get regular attention, or intensive attention when they need it most.
Sponsors can support our work on clearing invasive species by adopting a conservation zone for a year. With these contributions, we’re able to dedicate more tools and supplies, regular attention, and, when needed, paid manpower, to tackle the invasive species found within a specific zone.
We thank our current sponsors for supporting Kleinmond’s natural environment by adopting these conservation zones:
2. West bank north
Sponsored by The River Retreat Kogelberg.
Visit them on their website or Instagram page.
What you can do
Find out more about the 7 most common invaders threatening Kleinmond’s fynbos.
To join us as a volunteer or sponsor of a conservation zone, send an email to info@kleinmondnbv.co.za.