The latest FOSTER update encompasses several key areas. Let’s dive in.

By Matt Gennrich

It’s high time for an update from FOSTER. I have been away for many weeks and as always, the team and committee have ensured that the ongoing maintenance programmers have continued and that event planning by the fund-raising committee has stayed on track, with the FOSTER Jol scheduled for next Saturday the 5^th of July. More about the Jol to follow but get your tickets from the CSF Resort or on https://www.quicket.co.za/.

New FOSTER Sign

Thanks to Paul and Wesley from Nevermind for sponsoring a new FOSTER sign at the Lighthouse Parking area which helps visitors realize that they are in a nature reserve. Then thanks to Paul and Tracy Middelton from Caliber for agreeing to partner with FOSTER and providing a response service if needed at any of the reserves, all the FOSTER signs now have a sign indicating this and the number to call if assistance is required. Let me add that there have been no incidents and this is purely a proactive measure. As previously mentioned, we also have new no-cycle signs sponsored by Steve Manthe from Noelex Signs in PE.

Fire Breaks

Considerable time and money have been invested in the fire breaks in the Irma Booysen Reserve by widening and upgrading these and removing Blombos and other flammable vegetation and debris dumped there. This will go a long way in ensuring that should a fire come approach the houses in the DIAZ Crescent, Waratah and Birkenhead streets area and beyond, that there is easy access for fire fighters and a first defense via the firebreak.

Des Green Trail

The Des Green Trail at the end of Osprey avenue past the sub station is a joy to walk after the team did some major maintenance work including the placing of wood chips on some of the paths, a walk into the old quarry which is now clear of any aliens is also worth a visit if you like peace and quite and enjoy nature and the amazing bird life there.

Walking around the lighthouse remains a special experience especially now that so much of the natural fynbos has been cleared of bitou and old building rubble and other debris has been removed by Themba and his team of Richard and Gerry. Work continues in the other reserves as well. A never-ending task but thanks to our members and donors we can keep our reserves in the great shape that they are in. If you think your annual membership might be due, it probably is so please renew it as our system does not always work as well as it should.

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