Shamboh WLC expands its biodiversity footprint with another successful mini-forest pocket planting! This latest addition to the forest biome was made possible through the combined contributions of Mines Rescue, who sponsored half the trees, and the wonderful individuals who support us through our Gift a Tree platform in honour of a loved one.
The groundwork for this mini-forest was pre-prepared by the landowner, who diligently thinned the area and cleared it of invasive species. Larger alien trees trees were methodically ringbarked and will be removed in due course, since they provide shade for the newly planted saplings.
Following our established best practices, the new trees within this forest pocket have been planted in close proximity to one another. This method facilitates the development of intricate underground networks, allowing the trees to communicate and support each other as they grow and establish a resilient ecosystem.
Though the planting itself was uncomplicated, the creation of this mini-forest at Shamboh WLC – powered by the generosity of our community – represents a significant step towards a richer and more biodiverse environment.
The SMEC team in George took team building to a whole new level – one that involved getting their hands dirty and connecting with the beautiful natural environment around them. Facilitated by Melissa Dalton, PTP Administrator and Public Officer, the session was perfectly timed to coincide with Arbour Month (September), adding a meaningful layer of environmental awareness to their team bonding experience.
The session kicked off with an insightful look into the importance of the fynbos and forest biomes that are so vital to our region. Melissa highlighted their significance for biodiversity, the challenges they face, and the crucial connection we all share with the natural world. It was a valuable reminder of the rich ecological tapestry that surrounds us here in the Garden Route, Western Cape.
Adding a tangible element to their commitment, SMEC, an international business with offices in George, sponsored 10 trees in celebration of their 10 years in business. This gesture not only contributes to the local environment but also provides a fantastic opportunity for the team to get involved directly.
For some, it was a brand new experience – the feel of soil between their fingers, the weight of a young sapling. By the end of the planting session, a happy and fulfilled group stood back to admire their handiwork, a testament to the power of shared experience and a connection with nature.
It’s inspiring to see an international company like SMEC embrace local environmental initiatives, fostering both team spirit and a deeper understanding of our precious natural heritage. This tree-planting activity was undoubtedly a memorable and impactful experience for the SMEC team in George, proving that growth and connection can happen in more ways than one.
Today wasn’t just about putting roots in the ground; it was about the incredible spirit of community and the power of collective action to nurture our precious environment. We had the pleasure of hosting not one, but two wonderful planting sessions, each with its own unique charm.
Morning Bloom: THYME to Plant
Our morning began with a heartwarming visit from the vibrant seniors of The Garden Thyme Group, hailing all the way from Knysna. This remarkable group, aptly named, certainly proved that age is no barrier to making a tangible difference. They arrived with enthusiasm and a generous spirit, having not only sponsored a number of trees but also rolled up their sleeves to plant them themselves!
We were thrilled to welcome these green-thumbed individuals to the Shamboh site. In a touching gesture, the trees planted during this session were each dedicated in honour of a member of The Garden Thyme Group, sponsored directly by the members themselves. Imagine the legacy these trees will represent, a living tribute to the individuals who care so deeply about our planet.
Witnessing this planting was inspiring – a powerful reminder that every generation has a vital role to play in environmental stewardship. They created a beautiful connection with the land and each other.
Afternoon Flourish: A Mini Forest Takes Root
As the morning sun gave way to the afternoon warmth, we welcomed a different group to another newly cleared section of the Wildlife Corridor. This session focused on creating a small, vibrant mini forest pocket, thanks to the wonderful generosity of individuals who sponsored trees through our “Gift a Tree” platform.
It’s always incredibly rewarding to see the direct impact of these sponsorships. Today, we planted a significant number of trees, each one representing a thoughtful contribution from someone who believes in the power of nature and the importance of reforestation. These trees will contribute to the biodiversity of the area, providing habitat and helping to create a thriving ecosystem within this small pocket of land.
The afternoon planting session was a testament to the collective impact of individual actions. Each sponsored tree, when planted together, creates something far greater than the sum of its parts – a growing, breathing mini-forest that will benefit the environment for years to come.
A Day of Growth, Together
Today was a powerful reminder of the incredible things we can achieve when we work together. From the enthusiastic seniors of The Garden Thyme Group to the thoughtful individuals who gifted trees, every single contribution, big or small, plays a vital role in our mission.
We extend our deepest gratitude to The Garden Thyme Group for their visit, their sponsorship, and their inspiring energy. And to everyone who has gifted a tree through our platform, thank you for your support!
Click here if you would like to Gift A Tree! We have selected 11 of our favourite endemic forest tree species for you to choose from. The tree species you select and sponsor in honour / celebration of a loved one, will be planted out in one of reforestation projects in the Garden Route, with a range of other species, in bio-mimicked indigenous forest patches that emulate the natural forest biome of the area.
The “Shamboh” Wildlife Corridor in Wilderness Heights has been one of our focal sites of ongoing rehabilitation over the past few years. Returning to the area to continue clearing out aliens and then coming back to plant out another mini-forest brings with it the opportunity to observe the natural reforestation taking place in the corridor in between our assisted reforestation efforts, as well as the satisfaction of seeing the growth of the mini-forest pockets we have planted out in previous sessions.
Each planting session is a labour of love taken on by our volunteers and becomes an exercise of short term fun for medium and long term gain. All made possible by your individual sponsors via our Gift-a-Tree platform. Thank you!
No better way to celebrate the Tree Man himself than with a Tree Planting Ceremony
Ray turned 50 this month. As part of his celebration weekend in honour of his birthday, we gathered together to plant 100 precious indigenous trees on his small holding in Wilderness Heights. He sponsored 50 of them, honouring each year of his life, and the balance were sponsored as birthday gifts from friends, family and community members. Happy 50th Birthday Ray!
Social Connect
Search Site
Next Tree Planting
To be confirmed. Keep an eye on our Facebook Page for live updates.
