The Friends of St Francis Nature Reserves (FOSTER) held its 2025 Annual General Meeting this week, celebrating a landmark year for conservation in the St Francis area.

After more than three decades of dedicated work, the Irma Booysen Flora Reserve, Seal Point Nature Reserve, Seal Bay Nature Reserve and Erf 1990 were formally proclaimed as protected nature reserves under South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (2003).

The proclamation secures the long-term protection of approximately 330 hectares of natural habitat in the St Francis region.

Protected status marks a major conservation step

FOSTER Chair Matt Gennrich described the proclamation as a watershed moment for local conservation.

“These reserves are central to the character and environmental health of the St Francis area. Protecting them safeguards biodiversity, water systems, recreational spaces and ultimately the quality of life for our community.”

The proclamation stands as one of the most significant achievements in FOSTER’s history and reflects years of steady work by committed conservation supporters in the area.

Reserve management continues across the region

FOSTER manages the reserves through a wide range of practical activities. These include alien vegetation removal, clearing invasive bitou bush, maintaining walking and cycling trails, managing firebreaks and ensuring access for emergency services.

During 2025, some R519,000 was spent on reserve management. More than 94% of that total went to labour, which also supported local employment.

This ongoing work plays an important role in keeping the reserves healthy, accessible and environmentally resilient.

Community funding remains essential

FOSTER relies on donations, membership contributions and community fundraising events to sustain its work. Annual operating costs are approximately R560,000, while current membership covers only a portion of that amount.

As a result, community support remains essential.

Popular fundraising events during the year included the FOSTER Golf Days, the annual FOSTER Jol, the Fun Run, and a new series called FOSTER Fireside Chats, which feature expert speakers on environmental topics.

These events help raise funds while also building awareness around conservation in the St Francis region.

Strong partnerships support conservation work

FOSTER continues to benefit from strong partnerships with local organisations. These include the St Francis Cycling Club, St Francis Running Club, Kromme Enviro Trust and Rotary.

Together, these partnerships support trail maintenance, environmental awareness and broader conservation initiatives across the region.

This collaborative approach continues to strengthen local conservation efforts and deepen community involvement.

Advocacy and future conservation goals

In addition to reserve management, FOSTER remains active in environmental advocacy. The organisation submits comments on municipal planning frameworks, participates in coastal clean-up initiatives and works with the Thyspunt Alliance on discussions around proposed large-scale developments in the area.

FOSTER is also working toward the proclamation of the Cape St Francis Nature Reserve. That process is more complex and is currently underway with the assistance of conservation specialists.

Community involvement remains central

Gennrich emphasised the importance of community participation in protecting local natural heritage.

“Strong communities don’t wait for others to protect their environment. They step forward, get involved and make a difference. The St Francis reserves belong to all of us, and their future depends on continued community support.”

Residents are encouraged to become members or contribute to the organisation’s conservation work.

The full report, as well as the accompanying slides, can be found on the FOSTER website: www.foster.org.za

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