iSimangaliso Wetlands (Lake Sibaya area)

[chris williams]

Hi guys,

I just received an e-mail from the Wetlands people as above for which many thanks to them.

In short, they have drawn up an Integral Management Plan, which in Myspeak means a five year plan to try and enhance the area and to block any untoward 'development'.

This area was the first World Heritage Site within South Africa, promulgated I think in 2000. I understand they intend having the area declared as a Marine Protected Area which would mean no mining etc etc

The plan is available for viewing on the web (imp@acerafrica.co.za). Various libraries will have the document available for viewing as well.

Comments/suggestions, if any, to be formally submitted to them by 18th Feb 2009. Persons I/C are Ms's Bongi Shinga and June Mottram. Send to e-mail above or tel 035 340 2715 fax 035 340 2232

FYI iSimangaliso's e-mail is iSimangaliso@ilink247.com

I havn't yet had a chance to personally review the document, but bearing in mind holidays I thought I'd 'spread the word' ASAP for interested parties - of which I'd hope most Forumers would like to be involved.

Cheers again to all, have a goodie!

[frikb]

Chris, you seem to get your fingers into all these kind of things. Keep up the good work.

I don't know the area (Lake Sibaya) itself but the rest of the park (formally known as St Lucia Wetlands) is definitely one of our most valuable assets and is well worth a visit. I don't know why these mining folk can't just f@ck off and go turn some other rocks for something valuable. They've been trying now for years to mine this area.

I had a look at their website (www.acerafrica.co.za) and it sure looks like they're doing a good job.

Thank you for the info.