Stream thoughts and observations
Strange experience to go to the reserve with trepedation almost feeling unwelcome. A pleasant surprise was the enthusiastic reception by the staff at the Flower House and the nice chat. Also a bit double to see that some of our verbal suggestions regarding signage, map, mowing etc. had been carried out.
We already noticed the effect of new management as soon as we entered the new gate with various sections beautified and mown. A fresh wind is blowing for sure.
We did not go around checking but went straight to “The Stream”. The initial name was “The Buffalo Stream” but quickly got shortened because there really is only one.
We checked the water pipe where it crosses the stream and it felt promising, later it turned out that is was wishful thinking when we checked the tap in the arboretum.
It was good to be down there again and seeing the Combretums in seed and looking fantastic. Further down we saw signs of wild life.
We didn\’t only see signs of porcupine but also disturbed two beautiful bushbuck. The stream seems to have become a haven for them, one more reason to keep the pulic out.
Further up we checked up on the orchid we tried to save and were delighted to see that it has produced new leaves.
As we progressed the transformation of the valley after the removal of the wattle and other nasties was unbelievable. The indigenous trees are doing very well and the slopes are filling up nicely. We couldn’t stop taking photos of all the beautiful flowers.
A disturbing aspect was the abundance of castor oil, sesbania and inkberry seedlings. A follow up is definitely required. On the other hand the keurboom is doing great and producing lots of seed so this pioneer plant will provide an ideal environment for recovery.
We reached the end of the stretch which we have cleared and explored some way beyond. There was a strong smell of game and some baboon droppings, again a sign that preserving this habitat is important. The only negative note was the sight of this nasty invader high up on a ledge.
To make up for that we spotted a beautiful butterfly along the River Walk and to top it all seeds on the Widddringtonia’s we looked after in the arboretum after the fire.
Last step was to have a very late lunch and to collect some Protea potting soil and return home after a most enjoyable day.