The Pine Tree Project

My understanding is that the response is positive, but it seems to need time to go through the proper channels. We'll see.

So far the response has been incredibly positive. There are obviously a couple of things that need to be ironed out, since this is a potentially hazardous exercise, and there are certain protocols Ezemvelo has in place in terms of their own alien clearing projects. I am just awaiting further clarity on that before I can give the go ahead to Attie to begin the co-ordination of VEs efforts (Thx Attie... :grin:).

I am really pleased as well with the apparent energy the members of this forum have thrown their weight behind this. I am stoked that there are so many who would be willing to give of their time to help maintain the Berg in a pristine state.

Watch this space.

This is an initiative to monitor and ultimately eradicate pine trees in the Drakensberg which was born out of discussion and activities detailed in the following 2 threads:
* Alien invasion
* VE Berg trip

This thread serves as a place to discuss the issue and to build a knowledge base of the location and status of pine trees in the Berg.

If you spot a pine tree in the Berg, please post as much info as possible about it on this thread (location, size, numbers, condition). Photos are best. These should ideally be uploaded to the Pine Tree gallery . Exact co-ordinates if you have a GPS handy, or even approximate co-ordinates, are very valuable. These will be stored in a GPX file. Feedback on the condition of trees that have been ring-barked or cut down previously is also important (to check that the ring-barking is working and for any juvenile trees springing up).

If you intend tackling some trees on an upcoming Berg trip, it is very important to first get permission from KZN Wildlife. This venture is strictly in co-operation with them. Contact me via PM to arrange this. It is then important that you have adequate knowledge and tools for doing the job properly. There must be photos and a tally of the number of trees and their exact location. These should be posted on this thread, and they are also sent to KZN Wildlife for their database.

@ghaznavid: Yes that little forest right at the start has already seen a number of pines removed. I think the two you are referring to have been ring-barked? One of them is rather large and seems pretty healthy still inspite of the ring-barking. On the VE trip in March zen101 improved on the ring-barking a little. This is an example why it is worth checking up on trees to make sure they really are dying.

If anyone is heading up to Keith Bush Camp, please check out the 9 big pines in the Mhwlazini valley which are below you on your right (if heading up to the camp), upstream of Gatberg. These were tackled in March and I'm curious to know if the winter has given them a knock yet. There are also about 4 isolated pines in this area which haven't been done yet, so if anyone is keen, let me know.