Help Us Eradicate Silver Wattle at Doornkop
Protecting our land, our rivers and the wildlife that makes Doornkop special
At Doornkop Fish and Wildlife Reserve, our natural environment is at the heart of everything we do. From our grasslands and trout dams to the wildlife and birdlife that call Doornkop home, protecting this environment is an important part of preserving the reserve for generations to come.
That is why we are launching a Silver Wattle eradication project — and we need your help.
Why are we removing Silver Wattle?
Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata) is an invasive tree species originating from Australia. In South Africa, it is classified as a Category 2 invasive plant, meaning that it requires control outside of approved areas of cultivation.
At Doornkop, Silver Wattle has spread into areas of the reserve, including along rivers and waterways. If left uncontrolled, it can:
- Reduce water availability in rivers and surrounding areas
- Displace indigenous grasses and vegetation
- Reduce grazing available to wildlife and livestock
- Affect biodiversity and natural ecosystems
- Produce a long-lived seedbank, allowing new trees to establish for many years
- Spread quickly once established
Controlling Silver Wattle is therefore about more than simply removing unwanted trees. It is about protecting the health and resilience of the Doornkop ecosystem.
A two-part approach to eradication
The project will combine physical removal with biological control to reduce the spread and future regeneration of Silver Wattle.
🌿 Physical removal
The first working party will take place from 9–16 October 2026, with volunteers helping to remove Silver Wattle, particularly in areas along or near watercourses.
Where necessary, tree stumps will also be treated with an approved control product to prevent regrowth.
We are looking for people who can assist with the physical removal process, particularly:
Chainsaw operators
If you have the appropriate experience and equipment to safely operate a chainsaw, your assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Poison painters
Volunteers are also needed to assist with painting treated stumps as part of the control process.
🐝 Biological control
A biological control programme will also be introduced later in the year, with assistance from Daleen Strydom (DFFE, Mpumalanga).
The biological control agent Perilampella hecateus — a small bud gall wasp — is planned for introduction in November 2026. The wasp helps control Silver Wattle by reducing flowering and, consequently, seed production.
Its effectiveness will be monitored as part of the ongoing eradication programme.
We need your help!
Removing an invasive species across a reserve is a significant undertaking, and every tree removed makes a difference.
Whether you are able to assist for a day, bring equipment, or contribute your practical skills to the working party, your involvement will help us restore and protect Doornkop’s natural environment.
What to bring
If you are participating in the physical removal project, please bring your own:
- Chainsaw
- Fuel and lubricant
- Protective clothing
- Paint brush
An indemnity form must be completed and signed before participating in the project.
Ready to get involved?
If you are able and willing to be part of the team helping to remove Silver Wattle from Doornkop, please complete the indemnity form and contact us to confirm your participation.
First working party:
📅 9–16 October 2026
DOWNLOAD THE INDEMNITY FORM HERE
GET INVOLVED
Complete your indemnity form and let us know that you would like to participate.
Contact:
Shay Pieters
gm@doornkoploa.co.za | 073 979 1900
or
Mike Goodman
mikeglynis@trinity777.co.za | 082 454 2888
Together, we can make a difference — one tree at a time.
Healthy land. Healthy rivers. Healthy wildlife. Our Doornkop. 💛
