by Katherine Fillmore
Today I met with sparkly and full of laughs James Van Rhyn and Doctor Jacques Stein. James contacted me through the Facebook Page Heal the Hennops River, requesting guidance in relation to what we are doing to raise awareness to heal the Hennops and how they could duplicate this in the area they wish to conserve.
James has extensive municipal work experience and grew up next to the Hennops River. His childhood days were spent playing on the river quenching his thirst by scooping fresh river water into his mouth. He would fish with mulberries informing me that Jan Smuts’ wife had planted mulberry trees along the Hennops which made the fish accustomed to eating the fruit.
James and Jacques are working towards conserving the Kenmare Kloof which is part of one of the last remaining grassland ridges. The Kloof is connected to the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens ecosystem. ‘Currently, the only viable population of around 120 plants of the Albertina Sisulu Orchid is found a mere 2.5 km from the Sisulu Circle as the Black Eagle flies. This area currently under threat of development which will also be encroaching on the hunting grounds of the majestic Black Eagles.’ wildorchids.co.za
It was a magical meeting touched by Grace where Mother Earth continues to unite us in our quest to protect her beauty. A hoepoe sat in a nearby oak tree affirming Spirit’s wish for us to unite, share ideas and work as a team to conserve nature.
Comments