Our mission
Since 2011, our initiative has partnered with the Tree Liberation Front, Platbos Conservation Trust, Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat, Blomerus, and Kleinbos to restore and expand Africa's southernmost forest ecosystem. We combine invasive alien vegetation management and natural regeneration with active planting of indigenous saplings reared in our dedicated on-site nursery. To date, we have planted over 145,000 indigenous trees across more than 55 hectares of land. Restoration of the Uilenkraal Valley is critical for safeguarding this unique natural heritage, helping to mitigate climate change, improve soil and water health, and reduce fire risk while supporting a remarkable diversity of life, including the elusive Cape leopard and the endangered, endemic western leopard toad which is endemic to the coastal lowlands of the south-western Cape.
Funding campaign*
Yes | https://greenpop.org/donate/Classification
- Forests
- Mitigates Climate Change
- Reduces Disaster Risks
- Safeguards Biodiversity
15
Employees9
VolunteersImpact
Environmental Impact & Nature Loss The project safeguards Africa's southernmost forest, a unique ecosystem with relic trees over 1,000 years old. By planting over 145,000 indigenous trees across more than 55 hectares, the initiative has re-established ecological corridors and reduced woodland fragmentation. These efforts directly combat nature loss by supporting high biodiversity, including the Cape leopard and the endangered western leopard toad. The approach utilizes alien vegetation management and natural regeneration to enhance ecosystem integrity.
Climate Change & Sequestration This initiative addresses climate change through forest restoration, which serves as a vital tool for carbon sequestration. Beyond mitigation, the project improves local resilience by reducing fire risks—a major regional threat—through strategic firebreaks and the suppression of flammable alien vegetation.
Social & Economic Dimensions The project has established a semi-permanent job market within the restoration sector, providing income to local communities. Its "Theory of Change" focuses on increasing the knowledge, skills, and income of local landowners and staff. Furthermore, it addresses "eco-anxiety" by empowering thousands of individuals through hands-on volunteer events like the Reforest Fest, building community capacity for environmental action.
Pollution & Resource Health Restoration has led to improved soil quality and stability. The project also enhances water health within the Uilenkraal Valley, managing critical catchment areas essential for the ecosystem and the communities relying on these forest resources.
