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Biodiversity & Wine Initiative
 
A PIONEERING PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE SOUTH AFRICAN WINE INDUSTRY AND THE CONSERVATION SECTOR

 

 Members
Eensgevonden
Area Conserved:
402 ha
Wine District:
Worcester
Owner / Contact Person:
Sally McDermont
Phone:
(023) 3491490
Website:
www.eensgevonden.co.za
Membership Date:
10 May 2007
 

Biodiversity highlights: Area conserved – 402ha.
Eensgevonden is situated between Rawsonville and Worcester, near the Brandvlei Dam. One of the natural areas on this farm consists of 402 hectares, called Watervalkloof and forms an ecotone between the Western Cape Fynbos Biome and the Succulent Karoo Biome and plant species form both biomes can be seen side by side, as well as a great variety of bird species.

Eensgevonden, with its national monument homestead (1720's), is situated between Rawsonville and Worcester, near the Brandvlei Dam, at the foot of the Cedos- and Sidouw mountains.

Currently the farm has only 6 ha of vines planted, which are supplied to the local Daschbosch Cellar.

One of the natural areas at Eensgevonden consists of 402 hectares, is called Watervalkloof and is in an interesting position geographically. It forms an ecotone between the Western Cape Fynbos Biome and the Succulent Karoo Biome and plant species from both biomes can be seen side by side, as well as a great variety of bird species.

Over the past five years, they have cleared all the watercourses from Port Jackson. They have started clearing Hakea infestations in the mountainous areas as well, but there are still many man-hours of clearing to be done. They recently submitted an application to the Worcester municipality to subsidize the manpower cost of the ongoing clearing over the next four years.

At a later stage they also want to include the natural areas on eastern portion of the farm. This area consists mainly of Breede Sand Fynbos.
Workers cottages have been converted to guest cottages, to target the ecotourism market-nature lovers, hikers and bird watchers.

To date eighty species of birds have been identified. They are also conducting fieldtrips into the mountain with local schools, to teach learners about biodiversity and general appreciation and understanding of the flora and fauna.



 
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