Coast Watch

Coastwatch, launched in February 1998, is an effective coalition of volunteer members and interested and affected parties working to achieve the conservation, management and sustainable development of the coastal zone and offshore marine resources of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).  Coastwatch operates under the auspices of WESSA as a dedicated project committed to the well-being of the KZN Coast.

Coastwatch strives to promote a healthy coastal environment with equitable and diverse opportunities for all the people of KZN.  Coastwatch members comment on all development proposals in their geographic areas and also work in collaboration with their local authorities to find solutions to the many challenges facing our coastline in KZN. 

Coastwatch activities include participation in cooperative governance and decision-making forums, engaging in more reactive Environmental Impact Assessments, and acting as an environmental watchdog for our coastal zone.  We also strive to promote public participation in caring for the coast, and support capacity building initiatives, whether government or non-government based.

This project has become well-known in KZN and is now gaining recognition throughout South Africa.  Members are working with conservancies, interest groups and local authorities along our coastline and our advice and opinions are sought by the general public on an increasing scale.  We hope to expand the Coastwatch project along the whole South African coast.

Project contact details:
Ted Knott (National Coastal Projects Manager)
Tel 082 337 1273
E-mail: ted@wessa.co.za

 

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