‘Indiscriminate’ invasive tree clearing criticised

GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality is being criticised for the "indiscriminate" way in which alien trees on a municipal property on Seven Passes Road, Wilderness Heights, are being cleared.

A long-time resident of the area, who wants to remain anonymous, accuses the contractor of leaving behind "barren" ground, damaged indigenous vegetation and debris and stumps (that would apparently not be financially viable).

On the complainant's own nearby property, removal of invasive trees is an ongoing process through gradual thinning of the forest, leaving a tree canopy intact. This, says the complainant, ensures soil stability, moisture retention and more favourable conditions for regrowth of indigenous vegetation.

Debris and wood pieces are stacked and not left spread over the floor of the forest, making it easier for the young indigenous plants to grow back. Gradual clearing also does not disturb habitat for wildlife and bees.

Over years, development in Wilderness Heights has resulted in dwindling numbers of bushbuck, rooikat, leopard, wild pigs, porcupine and duikers.

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The sweeping clearing method has also been used on a number of private properties. The complainant said people moving in from the cities are uninformed.

"All we ask of them is to stop chopping down our forest for money. There is zero respect for all concerned living up here and leaving an absolute mess behind, including human-made rubbish."

Regarding contractor appointments by the municipality, she said there are Wilderness Heights residents who should also have the opportunity to harvest on public property for firewood.

Practices for best regrowth

The municipality's Community Services director, Allen Paulse, said a new manager recently appointed in the relevant municipal section has visited the site. "The municipality agrees that certain practices are suitable to encourage best growth of indigenous species and will engage with the contractor in this regard. In many areas, underground seed banks of indigenous vegetation are substantial and ongoing alien vegetation management in such areas should eventually make way for natural regrowth in these areas."

He said the municipality cannot afford to do large-scale replanting, but works together with private entities that want to donate trees.

An alien forest that is being gradually thinned out to keep a tree canopy. The owner says this is more favourable for indigenous regrowth and wildlife.

Contractors

Contractors are appointed by tender according to municipal supply chain management requirements. "The municipality also works with 'goodwill' contractors that do not charge for alien eradication and assist the municipality in clearing land in exchange for wood. The municipality commits to follow up in cases where there are legitimate concerns in this regard.

Locals wanting to cut for firewood on municipal public land may do so, but have to fill in and sign relevant documentation, including an indemnity form, before they undertake such cutting. They can contact Environmental Services to arrange."

Paulse said the municipal land in question is zoned agricultural and is being cleared as part of the municipality's legal obligation to eradicate alien invasive vegetation on its properties. All private and public landowners in the municipal area have a legal responsibility to eradicate alien invasive species, he said.