A new conservation area has been established in South Africa.
Covering 11 607 hectares of critical biodiversity in the Limpopo province, the Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve (WSNR) has officially been declared a protected area. It consists of 14 properties owned by eight landowners.
Picture: Sourced / Endangered Wildlife Trust
As reported by Travel News, the formation of the reserve was led by the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).
According to African Travel and Tourism Association, the development of the nature reserve is also the result of collaboration between the landowners, the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, and a coalition of supporting organisations.
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The Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve covers a critical centre for biodiversity in Limpopo, a strategic groundwater source, a centre for endemism, as well as cultural heritage sites such as sacred locations and rock art.
The local Soutpansberg Mountains are home to 593 species of trees across five biomes including wetlands, savanna, forests, thickets and grasslands.
The reserve will be managed by the Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve Association, a voluntary association of committed landowners.
Plans are currently underway to expand the nature reserve by 20 000 hectares this year, contributing to the long-term goal to protect 50 000 hectares by 2030.
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