Feeding a special heart in Knysna

KNYSNA NEWS - The Pledge Nature Reserve, in the middle of Knysna, is unique.

It was started in the early 1990s and is run by a trust. The reserve is 10 hectares and home to more than 300 different plant species.

The reserve was severely damaged in the fires that swept through Knysna on 7 June last year.

The visitors’ centre and manager’s home were totally destroyed and most of the vegetation was badly damaged.

The trustees decided to restore the reserve, an initiative that came to the attention of the Rotary Club of Knysna.

The Knysna Rotarians and Rotary Anns, together with the Rotary Club of Chatsworth, joined forces to assist the reserve's trustees in this project.

For the past few months, a cleanup has been under way.

On 29 March, 160 trees will be planted by the Rotarians, Anns and trustees, possibly also some members of the various Knysna Interact clubs (Rotary in the schools).

After the recent rains, new life is visible all over the reserve. Photos: Supplied

The trustees and various Knysna Rotary members visited the reserve, and a site on the eastern side was identified as the most appropriate site to begin rehabilitation.

This area is on a slope, and watering the trees that are planted is a priority. An irrigation system is being installed to ensure that the trees survive.

The reserve has been reopened to the public and the recent rains have made an impact, with new growth all over. Recently more than 98 bird species have been seen.