Friends Groups
Friends Groups are community-based groups that are affiliated to WESSA, and consist of community members who have banded together around a particular natural environment to ensure its conservation and environmental integrity.
IF YOU:
WORRY about what the quality of life will be for your children and their
children.
WONDER what you can do about environmental degradation and
destruction that is going on all around you.
WISH that you could meet more people who feel the same way as you do.
WANT to get involved.
Then the "Friends" scheme was established for people like YOU!
WHAT ARE FRIENDS?
Friends of Nature Areas are groups of concerned people who have banded together to work for the conservation of the natural environment of specific areas of their choice, and to encourage greater public awareness of the value and wise use of these areas for present and future generations.
WHO ARE FRIENDS?
Anybody and Everybody! No special qualifications or experience is necessary. All we ask of Friends is that they care about the environment and that they are prepared to be doers rather then just talkers!
WHY BE FRIENDS?
Our nature areas are part of our natural heritage and belong to all people of South Africa. Yet many of them are not well known or really appreciated. Managing authorities do not have the money, manpower, time or expertise to make the public more aware of the value of these areas. The main aim of the Friends movement is to support local government by providing volunteer time and assistance to fill this gap. All activities and projects are therefore planned in liaison with the owner/administrator of the area.
SOME THINGS FRIENDS DO:
EDUCATE themselves, and the public, by collecting and distributing information on the conservation-worthiness of their area - it's unique and special properties, special lists, archaeology, history etc. - PROMOTE the natural assets of their area by establishing interpretive centres, producing information brochures, planning and constructing trails, conducting outings, and arranging talks etc.
- HELP the management of the area to eradicate aliens and combat soil erosion.
- RAISE FUNDS to finance these and other approved projects.
WESSA Friends Groups
If YOU would like to join an existing group or want to know how to set up a Friends Group, please contact:
The WESSA National Friend’s Co-ordinator
Marion Dunkeld-Mengell
Tel/Fax 012 667 2183
Cell 083 455 1736
marion@friendsnylsvley.org.za