| 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
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