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20 June 2025

SANParks Plants Indigenous Trees At Newlands Forest To Support Rehabilitation Efforts

South African National Parks (SANParks) is pleased to announce that the seedling planting initiative has commenced along the Woodcutters Trail at Newlands Forest as part of the rehabilitation efforts in Table Mountain National Park (TMNP). This initiative marks the first phase of the planting project, with the second phase scheduled for next year.

The rehabilitation initiative is necessary due to the effects of illegal and unsustainable bark stripping that has occurred in the forest. SANParks, together with volunteer partners, launched an integrated strategy in 2023 to address illegal bark stripping activities in the forest. The strategy includes intelligence gathering, law enforcement actions, and proactive solutions such as painting of mature trees, seed collection and planting of trees in affected areas and working with traditional healers to create awareness and find sustainable solutions. Partners in these initiatives include the SANParks Honorary Rangers, the Newlands Forest Conservation Group and the Sugarbird Project.

One of the ongoing proactive measures introduced in 2023 involves painting specific trees. Mature, seed-producing trees are painted with grey water-based PVA paint to deter bark stripping. In addition to this intervention, TMNP implemented continuous law enforcement patrols and facilitated educational awareness campaigns. These campaigns also involve engagements and workshops with traditional healers.

In July 2024, the SANParks conservation team, along with the Cape Research Centre (CRC) and the Biodiversity Special Project (BSP) team initiated a seedling programme with funding from the French Government and the Agence Francaise de Developpement (AFD)”. Seeds were carefully collected and grown to seedling and sapling stage. The City of Cape Town Westlake Conservation Centre generously provided space and horticultural support at their facility for seed germination, resulting in positive outcomes.

TMNP will be planting over 50 indigenous trees in Newlands Forest, in collaboration with its partners. The species to be planted include Cape Beech, Cape Holly, Bladdernut, and Wild Almond seedlings. SANParks would like to express gratitude to its partners for their successful collaboration in restoring this area of Newlands Forest in TMNP. Together, we can do more to conserve this site for both current and future generations.