Zwartkops Conservancy

The Zwartkops Conservancy formed over 40 years ago is one of the oldest environmental organisations in the country and is dedicated to fight for the ecological survival of the Swartkops River, the estuary and surrounding valley now regarded as the 11th most important estuary in the country.

The Swartkops River is one of immense beauty and has significant enviromental importance. The origin and source of the river lies in the pristine area below the Cockscombe Mountain and the beautiful valleys and surrounding hills are seldom seen due to its inaccessibility.

It is only from below the Groendal Dam that we find the problems of pollution and alien infestation occuring.The river is heavily polluted by water which empties into the Swartkops River through storm water canals,(Motherwell Canal, Markman Canal, Chatty River and the upper reaches in Uitenhage) discharging raw sewerage and many tons of litter and waste from these sources. Pollution from industry and individuals contributes to pollution in the river.

There is growing resistance amongst local residents and the general public to the over exploitation of natural resources which threatens the fragile ecological balance and the sustainability of the river. For instance over fishing.

Please examine closely what we are doing, what we would like to do and support us in our endeavors.