For most of us the sight of lush green-leafed tress hanging over a gentle flowing river, invokes a sense of serenity and calm. However, it is true what they say, that “too much of a good thing is bad”, and this is exactly the case of the trees along the Liesbeek River. To be more specific we are talking about the alien trees along the Liesbeek, of which there are many. Alien trees by simple definition, are trees that do not originally occur within a specific geographical area and here in lies their success. They are able to out-compete our own native species because they might be better suited to the environment (e.g. fast growing) and they also have no competition or predation. Within the Western Cape, the majority of alien trees mostly originate from Europe and parts of Australia where water is readily available throughout the year. (more…)
Archive for the ‘On the Liesbeek’ Category
Removing alien trees along our river
Wednesday, January 11th, 2012Pelican
Monday, September 5th, 2011Recently I filmed, rather poorly I am afraid, a trio of pelicans on the Liesbeek. While not exactly an uncommon occurrence it is neither that common either. I drive down Liesbeek Avenue at least twice a day and I have only seen a pelican on a handful of occasions. This is the first time I have seen more than 2.
Here are some links you may find of interest
A short video on the Liesbeek
Friday, December 3rd, 2010Remote controlled sailing on the Liesbeek
Saturday, August 14th, 2010The Friends of the Liesbeek were there to witness the interests of a group of remote controlled sailing enthusiasts. Its another fantastic way to use the river for recreational activity. All agreed that if this activity grows it could have all sorts of benefits especially in improving the Observatory section of the Liesbeek. Already the Maintenance Team have plans to remove the weed in this part of the river and to assist the sailors in creating a stretch of water that will hopefully attract many more sailors. Thanks to Neil, Colin and Alan for demonstrating the potential to use the Liesbeek for sailing. It certainly attracted the attention of the passing public.
Neil standing alongside his model yacht (above)
