Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy

In 1999, a group of landowners established a conservancy to protect the fynbos in Walker Bay in the Western Cape. The conservancy collectively manages 12 179 hectares of land. The Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy uses cooperative partnerships to conserve the natural splendour of the south-western Cape coast. The Cape floral region, home to the sixth, and smallest, floral kingdom in the world, is internationally recognised as a biodiversity hotspot and a world heritage site. Fynbos is indigenous to the Western Cape, which makes its conservation even more important. Fynbos is being threatened by invasive alien vegetation, uncontrolled veldfires, and agricultural and urban expansion. Some of this vegetation falls within private properties. Unfortunately, there is limited financial support from government for conservation on private land. The conservancy aims to:
  • Promote the conservation of indigenous plants and animals.
  • Raise funds for conservation activities.
  • Encourage local communities to participate in conserving fynbos.
  • Participate in educational and social upliftment of surrounding communities.
  • Create jobs for locals.
  • Ensure wise management of the entire area as a role model for other conservation organisations in the Western Cape.
The Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy uses a variety of projects to achieve its conservation goals, including managing alien vegetation and fires, and promoting ecotourism in the area. These projects also create jobs, which help locals develop new skills and sustain their families. Private conservation and collaborative partnerships between the private and public sector are essential for the long-term conservation of the Western Cape’s biodiversity. For more information visit www.fynbos.co.za