KNYSNA NEWS - As the eighth anniversary of the devastating 2017 Knysna fires approaches this June, experts warn that fire risk in the region is now even higher than it was then.
The 2017 disaster, which claimed lives and destroyed nearly 1 000 homes, was fuelled by drought, strong winds and unmanaged alien vegetation.
But instead of improving, these conditions have worsened, with invasive alien plants spreading rapidly due to poor land management and a lack of state funding for clearing efforts.
Eden Resilience
Eden Resilience is a non-profit organisation founded after the fires with the main aim of tackling this growing threat.
Their "Alien Busters" teams are clearing invasive plants and creating local jobs with support from SANParks and Knysna Municipality.
Crucially, a biological control agent for black wattle introduced in 2016 offers a narrow window - until about 2028 - to make real progress before the invasive species adapts.
To mark the anniversary and raise awareness, Eden Resilience is hosting a series of public talks in June.
These events aim to raise awareness, celebrate progress, and unite residents around a shared vision of a sustainable, fire-resilient future.
Upcoming events
- 4 June – Steenbok Park / CERN Hall
- 12 June – Panel with local organisations and scientists
- 17 June – Yacht Club "Talk of the Town"
For more information, contact Elin Duby on 067 409 6073.
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