GEORGE NEWS - The Garden Route’s trail network remains open and accessible amid the current outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the area.
Mountain bikers, trail runners and other outdoor enthusiasts are, however, urged to remain vigilant.
While KwaZulu-Natal is currently at the centre of a widespread FMD outbreak, a confirmed case has been reported in Mossel Bay, with a suspect case under investigation in George, raising concerns for the wider Garden Route.
Control measures include quarantine, vaccination, movement restrictions of animals from affected areas, and enhanced surveillance.
The Garden Route is home to arguably the most extensive network of high-quality trails in South Africa. With the Mossel Bay municipal area currently affected by FMD, recreational users must understand that individuals can unintentionally act as mechanical carriers of the virus through contaminated mud, soil or organic material on footwear, bicycles and vehicles.
Trail users are urged to avoid entering private farmland without permission and respect any biosecurity access restrictions.
Cyclists need to understand that mud and soil can cling to bike tyres, pedals, shoes and clothing. Therefore, thoroughly cleaning equipment before and after rides particularly if you have travelled from other provinces, is essential.
Minimise vehicle contamination
Vehicles travelling through muddy or agricultural areas can carry soil on tyres and undercarriages. Cleaning vehicles before entering rural areas helps reduce risk.
Respect temporary closures
Precautionary closures or biosecurity measures must be strictly observed. Such measures protect livestock, farmers’ livelihoods and the broader agricultural economy.
By respecting the land and the people who steward it, we safeguard not only livestock and livelihoods, but also the long-term sustainability of the Garden Route’s cherished trail networks.
For updates on livestock health matters, residents and recreational users are encouraged to access resources here:
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