Overstrand Municipality has entered into three funding agreements towards the rehabilitation of the surrounding wetlands and the Onrus River banks.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has committed about USD 80,000, towards small-scale funds.
The Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency has provided both strategic and operational support to the value of R5 million.
UK-based White Desert Foundation will support the Municipality’s carbon-sequestration project, by pledging funds to establish nurseries capable of cultivating indigenous plants on a large scale.
The restoration of the Onrus River’s banks and wetlands will, by and large, depend on the successful reintroduction of Palmiet.
Dean of Neill, Municipal Manager, said in a statement the plan is to attain significant carbon sequestration within the next four to five years, then restoration will commence on a small pilot scale to allow the two envisaged nurseries with a combined capability to cultivate around 150 000 plants to get up to speed.
Overstrand Municipality’s Environmental Management and Conservation Division will manage funding, monitor the project and ensure that all municipal by-laws and policies are adhered to.
A steering committee, on which all key organisations will enjoy representation, will be tasked with coordination and oversight.
Picture: OREF Onrus River Estuary Forum