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For the first time, landowners can actively
participate in conservation activities, by setting their land aside for biodiversity conservation.
Many landowners are wanting to do this, whether for philosophical reasons, or wanting to develop
the area for ecotourism purposes. Either way, the Biodiversity Stewardship programme is now
providing the framework and mechanism for landowners to do this.
Reasons for landowners to become involved in
Biodiversity Stewardship
· Be a trendsetter and become involved in an
initiative that is the first of its kind in SA. This process will redefine the approach to
conservation on privately owned land – and you can be part of it!
· Getting involved shows that you are informed about
the natural habitat and biodiversity which occurs on your property; that you are proud to become a
custodian of the natural habitat and in such a way contribute to securing its long term
sustainability.
· By becoming involved in conservation on your land,
you will have access to support, advice and other assistance from dedicated Nature Conservation
staff in your Province. Other incentives are currently in the process of being
developed.
· By conserving natural habitats on your property you
may be keeping certain plants and animal species from extinction while dramatically improving the
survival chances of many others. You may be able to diversify your income base through the wise use
and marketing of your natural resources e.g. ecotourism opportunities, professional hunting
etc.
· If you are part of a commercial sector whereby
international approvals are required to market your produce overseas (e.g. Eurepgap, ISO1400),
participating in a stewardship initiative may contribute to qualifying for these
approvals.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is championing Biodiversity
Stewardship in KwaZulu-Natal
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