MOSSEL BAY NEWS - New information plaques highlighting that Dana Bay forms part of a Unesco-designated Biosphere Reserve were installed at First and Second Beach and the start of the St Blaize Hiking Trail and the Cynaroides lookout point last Wednesday, 10 December.
“The GCBR was declared South Africa’s seventh Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 2015 and is the largest of the country’s 10 such reserves, covering more than 3.2 million hectares,” said Antonnet Botha of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR).
“It stretches from the coastal areas of Witsand, Stilbaai and Mossel Bay to the Swartberg mountain ranges, protecting a wide range of landscapes and ecosystems.”
Erika van der Westhuizen, the Dana Bay Conservancy’s chairperson, said what makes the reserve unique to the globe is that it is the only place in the world where three internationally recognised biodiversity hotspots meet: the Cape Floristic Region (fynbos biome), the Succulent Karoo and the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany thicket systems.
“This convergence has resulted in exceptional biodiversity, including more than 5 000 recorded plant species, at least 670 of which are found nowhere else on Earth,” she said.
Botha said the newly installed plaques provide information about what it means to live within a Biosphere Reserve and the importance of caring for the natural environment.
“By scanning the QR code, the public can learn more about the GCBR and how they can support conservation efforts through donations or volunteer programmes. The increased visibility helps raise awareness, strengthen community pride and highlight the region’s remarkable natural heritage.”
“By collaborating with conservation partners, Dana Bay Conservancy realised we can amplify impact, share resources and expertise, and raise awareness to a bigger audience. This can drive real change!” said Van der Westhuizen.
Other plaques were also installed in the Great Brak River and Mid Brak River area last week.
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