Guiding principles for reserve management - NCC Environmental ...

3.4 Key Performance Areas and Objectives ........................................................................................... 273.5 Zonation ........................................................................................................................................... 294. STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK ................................................................................... 31KPA 1: BIODIVERSITY AND HERITAGE CONSERVATION ......................................................................... 32Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 32Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 34KPA 2: SUSTAINABLE USE ....................................................................................................................... 37Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 37Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 39KPA 3: ENFORCEMENT, SECURITY AND ACCESS CONTROL .................................................................... 42Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 42Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 43KPA 4: INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT (OPERATIONS) ................................................................. 45Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 45Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 46KPA 5: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT.................................................................................................... 48Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 48Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 49KPA 6: ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING............................................................................................. 52Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 52Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 535. RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK ............................................................................... 555.1 Staffing Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 555.2 Funding Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 565.3 Roles and Responsibilities ................................................................................................................ 576. BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................... 59ANNEXURE 1: ZONATION CATEGORIES (CHARACTERISTICS)..................................................................... 61LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 4

PREFACEMr Albert MabundaSenior General Manager: Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and TourismDate: Insert DateLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 5

ABBREVIATIONS AND PLANNING TERMSABBREVIATIONS:APOAnnual Plan of OperationsBCEA Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of 1997)CAPEXCapital ExpendituresCARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983)DAFFDepartment of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesECParksEastern Cape ParksEEA Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998)EPWPExtended Public Works ProgrammeESKOMElectricity Supply CommissionFEPAFreshwater Ecosystem Priority AreaFPA Fire Protection Association [in terms of the National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998(Act No. 101 of 1998)]GLTFPGreat Limpopo Transfrontier ParkHDIHistorically Disadvantaged IndividualHOHead OfficeHODHead of DepartmentHRHuman ResourcesHRDHuman Resources DevelopmentIDP(municipal) Integrated Development PlanITInformation TechnologyIUCNInternational Union for the Conservation of NatureKNPKruger National ParkKPAKey Performance AreaLEDETLimpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and TourismLRA Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995)MECMember of the Executive CouncilMETTManagement Effectiveness Tracking ToolMETT-SAManagement Effectiveness Tracking Tool for South AfricaNBRBSANational Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of1977)NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004)NEMPAANational Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of2003)NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2009 (Act No. 58 of 2009)NHRA National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999)NPAESNational Protected Area Expansion StrategyNVFFA National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998)OHSA Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993)OPEXOperating ExpendituresPFMA Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999)PSA Public Service Act, 1994 (Act No. 103 of 1994)RMPReserve Management PlanRPTReserve Planning TeamSANParksSouth African National ParksSANSSouth African National StandardSDA Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998)SISSecurity and Investigation ServicesSONRState Owned Nature ReserveSPStrategic PlanTGPTechnical Guidelines and ProceduresLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 6

TORTerms of ReferenceUZMUse Zone MapVCAVeld Condition AssessmentWfWWorking for WaterWNRWolkberg Nature ReserveWNRMCWolkberg Nature Reserve Management CommitteeWSA Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997)DEFINITION OF KEY PLANNING TERMS:ActivitiesGuiding principlesMonitoringObjectivesOutcomesOutputsPerformanceassessmentPerformance indicatorResourcesTargetUse zone mapValueVisionActivities are management tasks required to collectively realise the objectives.Guiding principles provide overall direction to the implementation of activities.Monitoring is the collection of data and information in a consistent manner overtime for the purpose of evaluation.Objectives are derived from the vision. They represent key areas in whichachievements must be obtained in total, or in some combination, to give directionto the management aspiration (the vision).Ideally outcomes are benefits produced from objectives and activities.Outputs are tangible results produced by activities.Performance assessment is a measurement of accomplishment against a set of predeterminedcriteria (e.g. efficiency or effectiveness).A performance indicator is a measurement used to evaluate the success in achievingtargets and realising objectives.Resources include the people, materials, technologies, money, etc. required toimplement the activities.Targets are set for particular aspects of performance – financial returns, efficiency,quality of services, etc. – against which performance is monitored and measured.A use zone map is a spatial framework that guides and co-ordinates conservationand development activities in a protected area.A value is a specific attribute or feature (cultural, ecological or recreational) within areserve that may require additional/special consideration during the planningprocess and subsequent management.Vision indicates the direction of management aspiration.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 7

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 8

1. INTRODUCTION1.1 The Reserve Management PlanThe Reserve Management Plan (RMP) is the overarching management planning document for theWolkberg Nature Reserve (WNR).The accompanying LEDET guideline document ‘Guidelines for the development of management plans forLimpopo’s Provincial Nature Reserves’ details the purpose, scope, approach to, and elements of allRMPs for State-owned nature reserves in Limpopo Province.The Wolkberg Nature Reserve Management Plan comprises two complementary documents 1 :A Strategic Plan (SP) covering a period of five years (this document); andAn Annual Plan of Operation (APO) covering the current financial year.The relationship between these two documents is shown in Figure 1 below.Figure 1: The relationship between the five-year Strategic Plan (SP) and the consecutive Annual Plans of Operation (APO) thatguide the year-on-year reserve budget and activity planning.All the information necessary to guide the management of the WNR is included in these twodocuments. No major decisions potentially affecting the future of the reserve will be taken withoutreference to the RMP.This document constitutes the SP for the WNR and covers the period 2013-2017.1.2 Purpose and structure of the Strategic PlanThe purpose of the SP for the WNR is to set out the medium-term ambitions for the reserve. Theseambitions are expressed through the vision and objectives. The SP then describes how these ambitionswill be delivered through a range of management guidelines and management actions.1 These two planning documents may, in turn, be supported by a Reserve Database and program-specific, more detailed Subsidiary Plans.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 9

This SP has the following structure:SECTION 1SECTION 2SECTION 3SECTION 4SECTION 5INTRODUCTIONThis section briefly describes the: (i) planning context for the SP; (ii) purpose of the SP; (iii)structure of the SP; and (iv) approach to developing the SP.CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORKThis section provides a succinct summary of contextual information about the reserve.STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORKThis section defines the ambitions for the reserve, through the formulation of a vision and a setof objectives.This section also spatially represents the desired state of the reserve in the form of a use zonemap for the reserve.STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKThis section defines how the vision and the objectives will be delivered. It details the keymanagement guidelines and management actions for six thematic areas (Key PerformanceAreas): biodiversity and heritage conservation; sustainable use; enforcement, security andaccess control; infrastructure and equipment (operations); stakeholder involvement; andadministration and planning.RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORKThis section describes the: (i) governance arrangements for decision-making; (ii) roles andresponsibilities of affected institutions and stakeholders; (iii) the projected staffingrequirements; and (iv) the projected funding requirements for the implementation of the SP.1.3 The steps in preparing the Strategic PlanEight basic steps were taken in preparing this SP. These steps are outlined in the Table 1 below.Table 1: The eight basic steps taken in preparing the Strategic Plan of the Wolkberg Nature ReserveSTEPSTEP 1: Data collection,background research andsite visit.STEP 2: Establishment ofa Reserve Planning Team(RPT).STEP 3: Identification ofthe reserve values.STEP 4: Deciding on thedesired state for thereserve.STEP 5: Development ofan action plan for thereserve.STEP 6: Preparation ofthe first draft of the SPfor the reserve.PURPOSE OF STEPTo collect, collate and review the contextual reserve information that informs thereserve management planning process.To establish an inter-disciplinary team to guide and advise on the preparation, andongoing review and evaluation, of the RMP.To describe why the reserve was designated, and its associated values and benefits.To develop and articulate a desired condition, state or appearance of the reserve(vision, objectives and use zone plan).To identify and develop the key management actions needed to achieve the desiredstate for the reserve.To integrate all the information from Step 1 and Steps 3 to 5 into a first draft of theSP.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 10

Table 1 (contd.):The eight basic steps taken in preparing the Strategic Plan of the Wolkberg Nature ReserveSTEPPURPOSE OF STEPSTEP 7: Stakeholderconsultation.To create an opportunity for the RPT, and later the general public and otherstakeholders/interested parties, to review and comment on iterative drafts of theSP.STEP 8: Revision of the SPto include comments andrecommendations fromthe RPT and otherstakeholders.To revise the draft SP, taking into account the comments received from the RPT andother stakeholders/interested parties and the public.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 11

2. CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK2.1 LocationThe Wolkberg Nature Reserve (WNR) is located in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, SouthAfrica (Figure 2). It is situated approximately 14 km to the south-east of Haenertsburg, 60 km to theeast of Polokwane and 80 km to the south-west of Tzaneen.The WNR forms part of the northern Drakensberg and Strydpoort Escarpment, and is located in a regionthat is used extensively for forestry purposes. The reserve is surrounded by private farmland and Stateforests to the north and west, the Bewaarskloof Nature Reserve to the south-west and theLegalameetse Nature Reserve to the south-east.The WNR could potentially be linked to the adjacent Legalameetse, Bewaarskloof and Thabina NatureReserves, which would result in the establishment of a ≈47 000 ha mega reserve with the potential ofsupporting the Big Five. The WNR has also been identified as an important potential link between theKruger National Park (KNP), Great Limpopo Trans-frontier Park (GLTFP) and the DrakensbergEscarpment Reserve as part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region.Figure 2: Regional location of the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 12

The WNR covers a total area of 20 429.570 ha 2 and consists of portions of the following properties:Rooibandfontein No. 611 LT, Eklatine No. 618 LT, Wolkberg No. 634 LT, Acre No. 2 KT, Aden No. 1 KT,Klipdraai No. 3 KT, Ceylon No. 4 KT, Serala No. 5 KT, Ararat No. 7 KT, Marake No. 14 KT, MampaskloofNo. 10 KT, Baden No. 9 KT, Bokhara No. 38 KT, Walmer Castle No. 39 KT, Lot No. 305, Lot No. 306, LotNo. 307 and Lot No. 318 (Figure 3).Figure 3: Locality map of the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.2.2 Legal StatusThe WNR was proclaimed as a wilderness area on 28 October 1977 in terms of the now repealed ForestAct, 1968 (Act No. 72 of 1968), and became known as the Wolkberg Wilderness Area.On 19 August 1983 the surface area of the Wolkberg Wilderness Area was amended in terms of Section7a (1) of the aforementioned Act to include the farm Marake No. 14 KT.In light of the above, the WNR is legally defined as a provincial nature reserve in terms of Section 12 ofthe National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) (NEMPAA).The reserve currently falls under the legal protection of NEMPAA in terms of Section 12 thereof.Table 2 lists key national, provincial and local legislation that has a direct influence on all reservemanagement activities.2 Current actual size of the reserve, as confirmed by LEDET. Please note that this includes areas that have not been officially proclaimed asconservation areas to date.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 13

Table 2: Key national, provincial and local legislation with a direct influence on all reserve management activities 3NATIONAL LEGISLATION National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107of 1998) (NEMA); National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004(Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA); National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act,2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) (NEMPAA); National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2009 (ActNo. 58 of 2009) (NEMWA); National Forest Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998); Agriculture Laws Extension Act, 1996 (Act No. 87 of 1996); Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43of 1983) (CARA); Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act No. 73 of 1989); National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998); Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997) (WSA); National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998)(NVFFA); National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999)(NHRA); Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984); Animal Health Act, 2002 (Act No. 7 of 2002); Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002); Fencing Act, 1963 (Act No. 31 of 1963); Tourism Act, 1993 (Act No. 72 of 1993); Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993)(OHSA); National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act,1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977) (NBRBSA); Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999)(PFMA); Public Service Act, 1994, (Act No. 103 of 1994), as amended(PSA); Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995) (LRA); Basic Condition of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of 1997)(BCEA); Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998) (EEA); Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998) (SDA); and Game Theft Act, 1991 (Act No. 105 of 1991).PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL LEGISLATION Limpopo Environmental ManagementAct, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003); Limpopo Tourism Act, 2009 (Act No. 2of 2009); Lepelle-Nkumpi Local MunicipalityBuilding Regulations By-laws; and Lepelle-Nkumpi Refuse Removal Bylaws.2.3 Institutional arrangementsPortions of the WNR are owned by the local Serala and Kgopa communities, who were successful landclaimants over these properties in terms of Section 10 of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (ActNo. 22 of 1994). The reserve is, however, managed by LEDET, although there is confusion as to theexisting status of the co-management agreement entered into in this regard.Table 3 details the current staff complement of the WNR.3 Including all regulations promulgated in terms of the legislation listed.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 14

2.4 Reserve Description2.4.1 HistoryTable 3: The current staff complement of the Wolkberg Nature ReservePOSTNUMBERReserve Manager (Acting) 1Administrative Clerk 1Field Ranger 11General Assistant 1Total 14Sections of the WNR were formally inhabited by early local communities and white settlers, althoughthe remote core wilderness area of the reserve has remained natural and unexplored.Haenertsburg, located approximately 14 km to the south-east of the WNR, was founded in 1887 againstthe slopes of the Iron Crown mountains, known as old miners road. Gold mining commenced in thearea in the 1870’s and evidence of this can still be seen in the area today.As a result of a combination of the high rainfall and soil types found in and around WNR, commercialforestry was started in the district in the late 1960’s and, as in the rest of South Africa, the forestryindustry boomed in the area in the 1970’s and 1980’s. A number of both private and State-ownedplantations occur in the area and consist mainly of Pine Pinus spp. and Bluegum Eucalyptus spp. Thisreiterates the importance of conserving the Wolkberg Wilderness Area, especially from a watercatchment point of view.2.4.2 ClimateThe WNR receives an average annual rainfall of 800 mm to 1200 mm per annum, most of which fallsduring the summer months. The amount of rainfall received varies according to the altitude and aspectof the landscape. The WNR area receives the least amount of rainfall in August (with an averagemonthly rainfall of 11 mm per month) and the most in January (with an average monthly rainfall of 187mm per month) (Figure 4).Figure 4: Average monthly rainfall and maximum and minimum temperatures for the Wolkberg Nature Reserve (GrootfonteinWeather Station: Latitude: 24.2140⁰S; Longitude: 29.9063⁰E; Altitude: 716 m above sea level).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 15

The monthly average for maximum temperatures at the reserve ranges from 19°C in July to 26°C inDecember. Temperatures can reach up to 31⁰C in the height of summer. The region is coldest in July,when temperatures can drop to 6°C at night (Figure 4).2.4.3 TopographyThe WNR forms part of the foothills of the northern Drakensberg and Strydspoort Escarpment, thelatter which dominates the topography of the reserve (Figure 3).The highest peaks of the WNR area are Serala (located on the edge of the escarpment at 2 050 m abovesea level), Maake (1 824 m above sea level) and Mutagumetse (1 825 m above sea level). Anotherstriking topographical feature of the area is the Devil’s Knuckles, a row of quartzite cliffs that face northeastfor approximately 2 km, and then drop to the west over a distance of 6 km.The WNR is well-known for its vertical quartzite krantzes; countless kloofs; cool, deep and denselyforested ravines; massive buttresses; and folded and interlocking spurs.2.4.4 Geology and Soils2.4.4.1 GeologyA variety of geological formations occur within the WNR. These formations can, however, generally begrouped according to the vegetation unit it supports.Northern Escarpment Quartzite Sourveld geology is comprised of Black Reef Group and Wolkberg Groupquartzite.Northern Mistbelt Forest occurs on Pretoria Group shales; Chuniespoort Group derived dolomite; BlackReef Formation derived quartzite; granite derived from Nelspruit Basement; and diabase derived fromMokolian intrusives.Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld occurs on shale and quartzite, with some chemical sediments of theChuniespoort Group.Poung Dolomite Mountain Bushveld geology mainly comprises dolomite derived from the MalmaniFormation of the Transvaal Supergroup, always interlayered with chert.Strydpoort Summit Sourveld at the WNR is underlain by the Penge Banded Iron Formation of theChuniespoort Group, which forms part of the Transvaal Supergroup.The geology of Tzaneen Sour Bushveld comprises an Archaean granite dyke, as well as potassium-poorgneisses of the Goudplaats gneiss, which underlie most of this vegetation unit. Shales and quartzite ofthe Wolkberg Group also occur, but are not common.The geology on which Wolkberg Dolomite Grassland occurs is comprised of Malmani dolomites of theChuniespoort Group.Woodbush Granite Grassland occurs on archaen Turfloop granite, relicts of Goudplaats gneiss andoccasional dolerite dykes or sills and quartz veins.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 16

2.4.4.2 SoilsA variety of soil forms occur in the WNR and can be generally grouped according to the vegetation unitit supports.Northern Escarpment Quartzite Sourveld occurs on nutrient poor, shallow rocky (quartzite) soils of theMispah form.Northern Mistbelt Forest occurs on highly weathered, clayey soils (Hutton and Avalon soil forms).Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld soils are shallow and rocky of either Glenrosa or Mispah soil forms.Poung Dolomite Mountain Bushveld soils are alkaline, high in calcium and magnesium and with lowlevels of phosphorus. These soils are mostly derived from Mispah soil forms and are shallow withoccasionally deep soils derived from the Hutton and Griffin soil forms.Strydpoort Summit Sourveld occurs on soils which are acidic and sandy.Tzaneen Sour Bushveld soils vary from shallow to deep, sandy or gravelly well-drained soils of theMispah, Glenrosa or Hutton formations.2.4.4.3 Soil ErosionSoil erosion is not currently regarded as an issue of concern in the WNR and no record of the presenceand extent of soil erosion within the reserve is currently available.2.4.5 Drainage and HydrologyThe Letaba, Thabina, Letsitele and Mohlapitse Rivers all originate within the WNR. These rivers aregenerally fast flowing and well-oxygenated, with water of a very high quality, resulting in it providing anessential habitat to a number of aquatic species. The ongoing conservation of the water catchmentareas within the boundaries of the reserve is crucial with a view to the maintenance of healthyecosystems beyond the reserve’s boundaries.The high water quality within the reserve has also been recognized by members of the localcommunities, who often harvest water from within WNR.The banks of the rivers originating within the WNR generally have gentle slopes, with riparianvegetation being either absent or sparse.2.4.6 Vegetation2.4.6.1 Vegetation TypesThe vegetation of the WNR comprises Central Bushveld and Lowveld vegetation units of the SavannaBiome; Mesic Highveld Grassland vegetation units of the Grassland Biome; and Zonal and Intrazonalvegetation units of the Forest Biome (Figure 5).Savanna is characterized by a herbaceous layer (usually dominated by grasses) with a woodycomponent – most typically an overstorey of trees. In southern Africa, bushveld is an apt description ofthe vegetation structure, as the vegetation most often does not comprise distinct shrub and tree layersand the shrubs and trees occur in a matrix with a grass-dominated herb layer. Savannas are fire proneecosystems and therefore fire is essential to maintaining both its structure and floristic composition:The exclusion of fire results in bush encroachment and a diminishing grass and herbaceous layer. Mid-LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 17

dry season burns favour scrubby and coppiced savannah (increase in browse capacity at expense ofgrazing), while early wet season burns favour grass production. Patch mosaic burning favours higherdiversity of vegetation structure and floristic composition. High intensity fire can kill shrub and treecomponents, resulting in a reduced browse capacity.Grassland is characterised by relatively short and structurally simple herbaceous vegetation dominatedby grasses and often with a fair proportion of low-growing herbs and herbaceous perennials. Woodyplants are rare or restricted to specific habitats such as koppies. Grasslands are fire prone ecosystemsand hence fire is essential to maintaining both its structure and floristic component. Fire returnintervals in grassland are one to four years and fire occurs from July to September.Forests are defined as multi-layered vegetation dominated by trees where combined strata haveoverlapping crowns (i.e. a canopy cover of 75% or more) and where grasses are rare in the herbaceousstratum. The Forest Biome is not a fire prone vegetation and although fire plays a role in defining theforest edge, it must be excluded from it.The vegetation descriptions for the WNR follow Mucina and Rutherford (2006) (Figure 5).Figure 5: Vegetation map of the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.Northern Escarpment Quartzite Sourveld (VU)Northern Escarpment Quartzite Sourveld (Figure 5) is rich in forb species and is characterised by short,closed grassland with scattered trees and shrubs. As a result of the soils being leached, plant biomass islower. This, together with the rocky landscape, has resulted in a reduced fire frequency and intensity,making this vegetation unit slightly woodier than the surrounding units. Dominant species includeProtea roupelliae subsp. roupelliae (small tree); Lopholaena coriifolia (succulent shrub); AristidaLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 18

junciformis subsp. galpinii, Loudetia simplex, Melinis nerviglumis, Panicum ecklonii and Trachypogonspicatus (grasses); and Rhynchosia woodii (herb), amongst others.Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include: Encephalartos brevifoliolatus, E. cupidus, E.nubimontanus and Protea laetans (small trees); Erica rivularis, Euclea dewinteri, Hemizygia rugosifoliaand Lopholaena festiva (low shrubs); Schoenoxiphiumsch weickerdtii (grass); Cinerea hederifolia, Ineziaspeciosa, Monopsis kowynensis, Monsonia lanuginosa, Schistostephium artemisiifolium andStreptocarpus decipiens (herbs); Brachystelma pachypodium, Crocosmia mathewsiana, Cyrtanthushuttonii, C. junodii, Dierama adelphicum, Disa aristata, Drimiopsis davidsonae, Ledebouria galpinii, L.petiolata, Schizochilus screnulatus, Tulbaghia coddii, T. simmleri and Watsonia strubeniae (geophyticherbs); and Aloe nubigena (succulent herb).Northern Mistbelt Forest (LT)Northern Mistbelt Forest (Figure 5) comprises tall evergreen afrotemperate forests forming small,fragmented patches. These forest patches primarily occur in east-facing areas which are excluded fromfire, such as subridge scarps and moist sheltered kloofs. Tall trees that occur in this vegetation unitinclude Brachylaena transvaalensis, Combretum xymalosmonospora, Podocarpus latifolius, Combretumkraussii, Curtisia dentata, Drypetes gerrardii, Kiggelaria africana, Ocotea kenyensis, Syzigium gerrardiiand Olea capensis subsp. macrocarpa. Small trees include Cassipourea malosana, Oxyanthus speciosussubsp. gerrardii and Englerophytum megalismontanum. Psychotria capensis and Canthiumkruntzeanum are some of the tall shrub species which are dominant. Other species include Begoniasonderiana (herb); Dietes iridioides (geophytic herb); and Carex spicato-paniculata, Cyperus albostriatusand Oplismenus hirtellus (grasses).Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include the following species: Cryptocarya transvaalensis andOchna gamostigmata (tall trees); Dombeya pulchra and Heteropyxis canescens (small trees);Mystacidium brayboniae (epiphytic herb); Pavetta barbertonensis (tall shrub); Streptocarpus davyi, S.fenestra-dei, S. micranthus, S. parviflorus, S. roseo-albus and S. wilmsii (herbs); and Clivia caulescens(geophytic herb).Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld (LT)Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld (Figure 5) is comprised of an open to closed grass layer and an open todense woody layer, with associated woody and herbaceous shrubs. Tree and shrub species includeSclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra (tall tree); Acacia exuvialis, A. karroo and A. tortilis subsp. heteracantha(small trees); Euphorbia tirucalli and Euphorbia cooperi (succulent trees); Dichrostachys cinerea,Combretum petrophilum and Crotalaria monteiroi (tall shrubs); Grewia vernicosa, Psiadia punctulataand Euclea crispa (low shrubs); Aloe castanea and A. cryptopoda (succulent shrubs); Pterolobiumstellatum (woody climber); Loudetia simplex, Andropogon chinensis, Aristida congesta and Brachiarianigropedata (grasses); and Aloe fosteri (succulent herb).Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include the following species: Encephalarto scupidus (small tree);Asparagus lynnetteae and Rhoicissus laetans (woody climbers); and Ceropegia distincta subsp.verruculosa (succulent herbaceous climber).Poung Dolomite Mountain BushveldPoung Dolomite Mountain Bushveld (Figure 5) is a shrub dominated, open to closed woodland withsmall trees such as Hippobromus pauciflorus, Kirkia wilmsii, Seemannaralia gerrardii and Euphorbiatirucalli (succulent trees). Dominant shrub species include Pouzolzia mixta and Senna petersiana (tallshrubs), Asparagus intricatus, Barleria rotundifolia and Rhynchosia nitens (low shrubs); and Plectranthusxerophilus (succulent shrub). Grasses that occur in this vegetation unit include Bewsia biflora,Brachiaria serrata, Eragrostis lehmanniana and Loudetia simplex.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 19

Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include the following species: Encephalartos dolomiticus and E.inopinus (small trees); Melhania integra (low shrub); Delosperma vandermerwei and Euphorbiagrandialata (succulent shrubs); Barleria dolomiticola and Lotononis pariflora (herbs); Brachystelmaminor, B. parvulum, Gladiolus dolomiticus and G. pavonia (geophytic herbs); and Aloe branddraaiensis,A. monotropa, Gasteria batesiana var. dolomitica and Huernia blyderiverensis (succulent herbs).Strydpoort Summit SourveldStrydpoort Summit Sourveld (Figure 5) is characterised by short to tall grasslands along rocky summitsand mountain slopes. Tree, woody and shrub species include Acacia caffra, Combretum molle, Cussoniapaniculata, Englerophytum magalismontanum and Protea caffra subsp. caffra (small trees); Searsiadentata (tall shrub); Ancylobotrys capensis and Rhoicissus tridentata (woody climbers); and Searsiamagalismontana, Aeschynomene rehmannii and Anthospermum hispidulum (low shrubs). The fieldlayer comprises of Aristida transvaalensis, Loudetia simplex, Monocymbium ceresiiforme and Themedatriandra (grasses); Acalypha angustata and Helichrysum nudifolium var. nudifolium (herbs); Rhynchosiatotta (herbaceous climber); and Aloe fosteri, Crassula swaziensis and Kleinia stapeliiformis (succulentherbs), amongst others.Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include the following species: Thorncroftia media (succulentshrub); Thesium gracilentum (semiparasitic shrub); and Aster nubimontis (herb).Tzaneen Sour Bushveld (EN)Tzaneen Sour Bushveld (Figure 5) is characterised by a well-developed, tall grass layer and deciduous,tall open bushveld occurring on low to high mountains with undulating plains below the escarpment.Dominant plant species which occur in this vegetation unit include Acacia polycantha, Albizia versicolorand Ficus sansibarica (small trees); Olea europaea subsp. africana and Pseudarthria hookeri var. hookeri(tall shrubs); Agathisanthemum bojeri, Barleria elegans and Dicliptera clinopodia (low shrubs); andCymbopogon caesius, C. nardus, and Hyparrhenia cymbaria (grasses), amongst others.Wolkberg Dolomite Grassland (LT)Wolkberg Dolomite Grassland (Figure 5) is characterised by short, closed grasslands rich in forb andgrass species, often dominated by Loudetia simplex and Diheteropogon amplectens. Dominant smalltree species include Acacia davyi and Vitex rehmannii. Shrubs species such as Asparagus schroederi andChrysanthemoides monilifera (low shrubs); and Aloe vryheidensis (succulent shrub) occur in thisvegetation unit. Andropogon schirensis, Brachiaria serrata, Heteropogon contortus and Themedatriandra are dominant.Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include: Aloe dolomitica and Euphorbia restricta (succulentshrubs); Barleria dolomitica, Becium citriodorum, Becium coddii, Dicliptera fionae and Lotonis pariflora(herbs).Woodbush Granite Grassland (CR)Woodbush Granite Grassland (Figure 5) is characterised by grassland covered mountainous plateaus,which increase in low-shrub density on steep south- and east-facing slopes. No tree species occur inthis vegetation unit. Shrub species include Tricalysia lanceolata (tall shrub); and Asparagus virgatus,Dicliptera clinopodia and Eriosema nutans (low shrubs). Grass species are most dominant in thisvegetation unit and include Eragrostis plana, E. racemosa, Hyparrhenia hirta, Microchloa caffra,Monocymbium ceresiiforme, Paspalum scrobiculatum and Stipa dregeana var. dregeana. Herb speciesinclude Berkheya echinacea, Chamaecrista mimosoides, Helichrysum cephaloideum, H. nudifolium var.pilosellum and Hypolepsis sparsisora (herbs); Asplenium andersonii, Asplenium lobatum and Agapanthusinapertus subsp. inapertus (geophytic herb); and Aloe lettyae (succulent herb).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 20

Plants endemic to this vegetation unit include: Indigofera rehmannii (low shrub); Wahlenbergiabrachiata (herb); and Chlorophytum radula (geophytic herb).2.4.6.2 Species of Conservation ConcernTable 4 lists the species of conservation concern known to occur in the WNR area 4 .Table 4: Plant species of conservation concern known to occur in the Wolkberg Nature Reserve areaSCIENTIFIC NAME IUCN STATUS SCIENTIFIC NAME IUCN STATUSEncephalartos dolomiticus Critically Endangered Lotononis pariflora Critically RareEncephalartos laevifolius Critically Endangered Aloe thompsoniae RareMarasmodes oligocephala Critically Endangered Combretum petrophilum RareSiphonochilus aethiopicus Critically Endangered Dracaena transvaalensis RareArgyrolobium muddii Endangered Euphorbia restricta RareEncephalartos eugenemaraisiiEndangered Helichrysum junodii RareMondia whitei Endangered Hesperantha brevicaulis RareNemesia zimbabwensis Endangered Lotononis anthyllopsis RareOcotea bullata Endangered Monsonia lanuginosa RareAloe monotropa Vulnerable Orbea hardyi RareBarleria dolomiticola Vulnerable Syncolostemon rugosifolius RareDicliptera fionae Vulnerable Adenia gummifera var. DecliningDisa aristata Vulnerable gummifera Ansellia africana DecliningGladiolus sekukuniensis Vulnerable Boophone disticha DecliningHypodematium crenatum Vulnerable Callilepis leptophylla DecliningOcotea kenyensis Vulnerable Cassipourea malosana DecliningPrunus africana Vulnerable Crinum macowanii DecliningThesium davidsonae Vulnerable Cryptocarya transvaalensis DecliningThesium gracilentum Vulnerable Elaeodendron croceum DecliningClivia caulescens Near Threatened Gunnera perpensa DecliningSearsia gracillima var.gracillima Near Threatened Hypoxis hemerocallidea DecliningBrachystelma minor Near Threatened Ilex mitis var. mitis DecliningCurtisia dentata Near Threatened Rapanea melanophloeos DecliningMerwilla plumbeaDisa extinctoriaDicliptera fruticosaAdenia fruticosa subsp.fruticosaClivia caulescensBrachystelma minorLydenburgia cassinoidesCurtisia dentataMerwilla plumbeaLachnaea filicaulisNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear ThreatenedNear Threatened4 The species of conservation concern indicated in this section have a strong probability of occurrence at this reserve, based on the Plants ofSouth Africa (POSA) database. The POSA includes a database of all plants recorded by means of voucher specimens lodged with one of therecognised herbaria in South Africa. The actual occurrence of these species will, however, need to be ground-truthed as part of KPA 1:Biodiversity and Heritage Conservation (Objective 1.5).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 21

2.4.6.3 Invasive Alien Plants:No record of the state of invasion by alien plants is currently available for the WNR. Infestation by alienand invasive plant species is, however, known to be a threat in the reserve.2.4.7 FaunaThe following mammal species are known to occur/have occured within the WNR: Thick-tailedBushbaby, Lesser Bushbaby, Chacma Baboon, Vervet Monkey, Samango Monkey, South African CrestedPorcupine, Aardwolf, Brown Hyena, Leopard, Caracal, African Wild Cat, Serval, Black-backed Jackal ,Side-striped Jackal, Cape Clawless Otter, Spotted Necked Otter, Honey Badger, Large Spotted Genet,African Civet, Slender Mongoose, Marsh Mongoose, Dwarf Mongoose, White-tailed Mongoose, BandedMongoose, Selous’ Mongoose, Meller’s Mongoose, Bush Hyrax, Bushpig, Common Warthog, RedDuiker, Common Duiker, Klipspringer, Grey Rhebok, Bushbuck, Common Reedbuck, MountainReedbuck, African Wild Dog, Impala, Blue Wildebeest, Spotted Hyena, Roan Antelope, Sable Antelope,Common Waterbuck, Oribi, Greater Kudu, Pangolin, Steenbok, Cape Hare, Antbear, Striped Polecat,African Weasel, Rock Hyrax, Whyte’s Hare, Short-snouted Elephant Shrew and Cliff or Eastern RockElephant Shrew.Four of the above-mentioned mammal species can be classified as species of conservation concernaccording to the Red List of Threatened Species of the International Union of Conservation and Nature(IUCN): Samango Monkey (Vulnerable); African Wild Dog (Endangered); Brown Hyena (NearThreatened); and Leopard (Near Threatened).The WNR forms part of the Wolkberg Forest Belt (SA 005), an Important Birding Area recognised byBirdLife South Africa. Nationally threatened bird species found within the Wolkberg Forest Belt includeWhite Backed Night Heron, Martial Eagle, Striped Flufftail, African Finfoot, Cape Parrot and BlueSwallow. Avifauna with a restricted range and biome restricted assemblage that can be found in theWNR includes Forest Buzzard, Striped Flufftail, Knysna Lourie, Blue Wallow, Grey Cuckooshrike, BushBlackcap, Orange Thrush, Chorister Robin, Starred Robin, Brown Robin, Barrat’s Warbler, YellowthroatedWarbler, White-bellied Sunbird, Swee Waxbill and Forest Canary.2.4.8 Heritage ResourcesThe Wolkberg Caves are located in close proximity to the WNR. This cave system provides a record ofhuman development from the Hominid Australopithecus africanus, to Stone Age and Iron Age humans.It is also believed that the Boers besieged the Langa and Kekani tribes at this location.Graves and historical buildings are known to occur within the WNR, although no records are currentlyavailable in this regard.Members of the local communities have historically utilised, and still to this day utilise, “holy” waterfrom WNR for use in a variety of traditional ceremonies and rituals.2.4.9 Reserve InfrastructureThe WNR can be accessed via the R71 between Polokwane and Tzaneen. Turning off the R71, a gravelaccess road in a very poor condition leads to the reserve’s entrance gate. This access road can only beaccessed by high clearance vehicles and is inaccessible after heavy rainfall.The condition of signage within the WNR is generally good, but directional signage is non-existent fromthe R71 and leading to the entrance gate.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 22

The road network within the WNR is in a poor condition, with management roads being eithercompletely absent or not well-maintained.The administration hub of the reserve includes the following structures, all of which are currently in areasonable condition (Photo Plate 1): An office; A store room; A double garage; An information centre; and Two storage sheds.Photo Plate 1:The office complex of the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.The WNR is equipped with one picnic site for day visitors, which consists of braai facilities, concretetables and benches.Overnight visitors’ accommodation comprises a campsite equipped with showers and ablution facilities.Hot water is provided via “donkey” hot water boilers.Staff accommodation within the reserve consists of one manager’s house, 10 staff houses and twounoccupied large houses. All of these buildings require urgent preventative maintenance to be initiatedbefore its condition deteriorates beyond the point of repair.One borehole equipped with a diesel pump supplies water to the administrative hub of the WNR.2.5 Local and Regional PlanningThe WNR is located within the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, which forms part of the CapricornDistrict Municipality of Limpopo Province.The Integrated Development Plan (IDP) of the Capricorn District Municipality for the period 2012/2013lists the “Wolkberg Wilderness” as one of the nature reserves located within the municipality.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 23

The IDP of the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality for the period 2012 to 2016 acknowledges the valueof the Wolkberg Wilderness Area and refers to the potential for eco-tourism development andcommercialisation within the area, as well as the possibility of merging the Bewaarskloof,Lekgalameetse and Wolkberg Nature Reserves.2.6 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and ThreatsTable 5 lists the key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that were identified for the WNR.Table 5: Key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats identified for the Wolkberg Nature ReserveKEY STRENGTHS Exceptional scenic qualities. Largest wilderness area in Limpopo under LEDET management. Peaceful and pristine environment. Primary water catchment area. Diverse habitat types. Many rare and endangered species (fauna and flora). Close proximity to the Wolkberg Caves. Good relationship with local communities. Experienced, hardworking personnel.KEY WEAKNESSES (ISSUES & CHALLENGES) No reserve manager – currently relying on the acting reserve manager and Regional Manager. Centralised budget, and de-capacitated reserve management. The reserve is not registered with a Fire Protection Association (FPA). The remote location of the reserve makes it less accessible to tourism. Ageing staff complement with a low morale. Staff members do not have uniforms and resources to conduct day to day work. Poor quality equipment and infrastructure. Lack of effective communication devices: Telkom lines are unreliable; no internet facilities; nocellphone reception; and no two way radio system. No Eskom power on the reserve. The entire reserve is not fenced as a result of the topography of the area. Illegal access is thereforea problem. Lack of management roads throughout the reserve. Accessibility on roads in and around the reserve is limited as a result of: (i) the poor condition ofthe roads (especially during the wet season); and (ii) the mountainous topography.OPPORTUNITIES There is huge potential to improve the tourism facilities of the reserve, including the road network,in order to allow better access throughout the reserve. Could become the eco-tourism flagship for the Capricorn District. Promote day visitors’ facilities, hiking trails, horseback trails, 4x4 trails, quad bike trails, mountainbike trails, camping facilities and develop environmentally friendly tented bush camps. There is a high avian species diversity which, if marketed correctly, could attract a niche market ofbird watchers. Potential expansion of the reserve boundaries to include the Legalameetse and BewaarskloofNature Reserves. Environmental education could be provided to surrounding communities. Job creation. Research and monitoring. Located close to the University of Limpopo. Incorporation into the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 24

THREATS Poaching of wildlife by neighbouring communities. Cycads and Bushman’s Tea harvested from the reserve for the overseas market. Deforestation of the reserve. Ecologically sensitive area. Ageing staff. Lack of skilled staff. Invasive alien species from surrounding plantations. Uncontrolled fires entering the reserve from neighbouring areas. Lack of capacity to ensure law enforcement. Poor road conditions make vehicle access for management purposes difficult. Land claims.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 25

3. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK3.1 PurposeThe WNR was initially proclaimed as a wilderness area by the Department of Forestry (Section 2.2) forthe following reasons:It contains part of the Drakensberg Mountain Range;It is a biodiversity hot spot; andIt is an important catchment area.In present times, the value of the WNR as a conservation area can also be attributed to the following:It includes a portion of the critically endangered Woodbush Granite Grassland ecosystem.It includes portions of the critically endangered Woodbush Granite Grassland vegetation unit,the endangered Tzaneen Sour Bushveld vegetation unit and the vulnerable NorthernEscarpment Quartzite Sourveld vegetation unit. Tzaneen Sour Bushveld is regarded as beingpoorly protected, while Woodbush Granite Grassland is not protected anywhere else in thecountry.It includes portions of Northern Mistbeld Forest, Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld and PoungDolomite Mountain Bushveld, all of which are regarded as being poorly protected.A combined total of 11 threatened reptile, amphibian, bird and/or mammal species occur at thereserve.The North-east Escarpment area, in which the WNR is located, was earmarked for expansion bythe National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES).The reserve falls within a National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area (FEPA).The reserve is dissected by the critically endangered Mothlaka-Semeetse and Mohlapitse Rivers,as well as the vulnerable Thabina River.The reserve was identified as playing an important role in terms of hydrological processes, aswell as ecological processes associated with ridges and escarpments. The reserve is also locatedwithin a centre of endemism.The reserve contains areas classified as “irreplaceable” in terms of Critical Biodiversity Values.The reserve forms part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Reserve and is therefore ofinternational importance.The reserve is regarded as having a medium income generating potential.3.2 Reserve ValuesThe following key values of the WNR were identified by the RPT:LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 26

KEY RESERVE VALUESThe reserve has the potential to demonstrate the efficacy, and benefits, of functionalpartnerships between the State and communal land owners in the collaborative administrationand management of provincial nature reserves.The reserve is committed to management in accordance with best practice and rationally drivenby current knowledge.The reserve is committed to good administration and the efficient use and good maintenance ofresources.The reserve is committed to being a good employer and socially affirmative neighbour in thelocal communities.The reserve has exceptional scenic and wilderness qualities. Its diverse topography includessheer cliffs, deep valleys and mountain slopes interspersed with flat plains and river courses.The reserve is an important water catchment area.The reserve forms an integral part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region. There areopportunities to physically link the reserve to the Legalameetse, Thabina and BewaarkloofNature Reserves.3.3 The Reserve VisionThe vision of the reserve describes the overall long-term goal for the operation, protection anddevelopment of the WNR. The following vision was developed by the RPT:VISIONWe see a collaborative partnership between the State and the Serala andKgopa communities in the ongoing conservation and sustainable use of theWolkberg Nature Reserve.From this partnership, we envisage securing: Meaningful and sustained benefits derived for the Serala and Kgopacommunities; Protection of the reserve’s outstanding scenic and wilderness qualities; Preservation of the reserve’s extremely important water catchmentareas; Conservation of the biodiversity of the fauna and flora ; and Equitable access to, and responsible use of, the reserve and its naturalresources.3.4 Key Performance Areas and ObjectivesThe RPT identified 24 Objectives for the WNR.contribute to realising the Vision for the reserve.Collectively these objectives are anticipated toThese objectives have, in turn, been grouped into six Key Performance Areas (KPAs), as follows:LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 27

KEY PERFORMANCEAREAS (KPA)KPA 1:Biodiversity andHeritageConservationOBJECTIVES1.1 Re-establish, manage and maintain viable populations of locallyindigenous fauna in the WNR.1.2 Maintain a natural fire regime within the WNR.1.3 Contain the spread, and impacts, of invasive alien plants in the WNR.1.4 Protect the heritage resources of the WNR.1.5 Update key baseline information, and develop and maintain a targetedresearch and monitoring program to guide biodiversity management inthe WNR.KPA 2:Sustainable UseKPA 3:Enforcement,Security and AccessControlKPA 4:Infrastructure andEquipment(Operations)KPA 5:StakeholderInvolvementKPA 6:Administration andPlanning2.1 Construct, upgrade and maintain day visitor and overnight visitor buildingsand infrastructure in the WNR.2.2 Develop, deliver and maintain a diverse range of tourism and recreationalservices for visitors to the WNR.2.3 Develop and implement a focused and cost-effective marketing,awareness-raising and educational programme for the WNR.2.4 Facilitate the sustainable use of natural resources by the Serala and Kgopacommunities in the WNR.2.5 Manage and mitigate the environmental impacts of conservationmanagement, tourism, recreation and natural resource use in the WNR.3.1 Secure the boundaries of, and maintain controlled access to, the WNR.3.2 Sustain an effective law enforcement and compliance capacity in theWNR.4.1 Develop and maintain the road, track and footpath network in the WNR.4.2 Construct, maintain and upgrade the bulk services infrastructure in theWNR.4.3 Construct, upgrade and maintain administrative, staff and operationalbuildings and infrastructure in the WNR.4.4 Acquire and maintain operational equipment and vehicles for the WNR.5.1 Ensure the ongoing involvement of a representative and functionalWolkberg Nature Reserve Management Committee (WNRMC) in theplanning, development and management of the WNR.5.2 Develop and implement effective mechanisms for ongoingcommunications with local stakeholders and neighbouring communities.5.3 Actively participate in local and regional conservation and socio-economicdevelopment initiatives that may affect or benefit the WNR.5.4 Identify, and enable access to employment, empowerment and capacitybuilding opportunities for the Serala and Kgopa communities.6.1 Secure the legal tenure of, and management authority for, the WNR.6.2 Maintain an adequately equipped, resourced and trained staffcomplement for the WNR.6.3 Institute and maintain an effective administrative and planning capabilityin the WNR.6.4 Establish, maintain and host a reliable inventory of key information on theWNR and its ongoing management.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 28

3.5 ZonationBased on available information, and in consultation with the RPT, a Use Zone Map (UZM) is presentedas a broad overarching medium-term spatial planning framework for the WNR (Figure 6).The use zone map indicates the extent and location of suitable visitor use zones for the reserve, withmanagement guidelines and broad conservation and tourism infrastructural requirements designatedfor each use zone.Annexure 1 describes the objectives, characteristics, uses and management guidelines for each of theuse zones shown in Figure 6.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 29

Figure 6: Use Zone Map for the Wolkberg Nature Reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 30

4. STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKThis section translates the strategic objectives framework described in Section 3 into guiding principlesfor management, management actions and management targets (for each set of objectives withineach KPA), which will be used to inform APOs and the resources required to implement it.The guiding principles are the norms and standards by which the WNR will make its operationalmanagement decisions and conduct its activities.Management actions are the key strategic activities that should be implemented to achieve the reserveobjectives. Management actions are defined and prioritized for the five-year time horizon of this SP.Each management action has been prioritised as follows:CATEGORYHIGHMEDIUMLOWPRIORITIESCritical to the effective management 5 of the reserve. Funding and resources should besecured to implement these actions.Important to the effective management of the reserve, but its implementation may bedelayed because of limited funds or resources.Constitutes good management practice, but not necessarily critical or important toreserve management effectiveness. Implementation may be dependent on availability ofexternal funding or support.Time Frames, Targets, Key Performance Indicators and Responsibilities are, in turn, allocated to eachmanagement action, or a group of linked management actions.In this section, the guiding principles and management activities (organised by management action,priority, target, performance indicator, responsibility and timelines) are presented separately for eachKPA and its set of related objectives.5 As reflected in the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT).LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 31

KPA 1: BIODIVERSITY AND HERITAGE CONSERVATIONGuiding principles for reserve managementFauna# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to wildlife management: Guidelines for aerial game census on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/1); Guidelines for culling on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/7); Technical management guidelines and procedures for game registers on provincialnature reserves (12/6/12/7/8); Technical management guidelines and procedures for game capture on provincial1nature reserves (12/6/12/7/8); Technical management guidelines and procedures for the introduction of mammalsinto provincial nature reserves (2008); Policy on the donation of game from State-owned nature reserves to HistoricallyDisadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) in the wildlife industry; Provincial directive on the control and management of damage-causing wild animalsin Limpopo Province; and Draft policy for the reduction of game from (provincial) nature reserves.2Wildlife management in the reserve must be focused primarily on protecting the ecologicalfunctioning of the reserve.3456Wildlife stocking densities should be maintained within the ecological capacity of thesupporting habitats of the reserve.A regular programme for monitoring the veld condition, the animal numbers and the physicalcondition of animals must be in place to ensure that the ecological capacity of the reserve isnot exceeded.Population management of wildlife species shall be required to ensure that such species arenot causing the ecological degradation of the reserve.Wherever practicable, non-lethal and environmentally-friendly measures should bedeveloped and implemented to limit, or mitigate, the impacts of any indigenous problemcausinganimal in, or escaping from, the reserve.Fire# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1 The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the NVFFA.23Unplanned wildfires that occur in areas where it could have undesirable ecological effects,threaten reserve infrastructure or threaten neighbouring properties shall be suppressed orcontrolled wherever possible.Unplanned wildfires that occur in reserve areas where it will do no ecological harm and/orthreaten properties may be allowed to burn, provided that safety concerns are notcompromised.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 32

456Fire protection measures and resources (equipment, trained personnel, firebreaks, etc.) mustbe maintained and effective in the reserve at all times.The reserve management shall, wherever possible, establish partnerships with neighboursand other role-players through agreements and membership of FPAs.Controlled block burns can only be implemented after an ecological assessment of the drymatter/fuel load has been completed.Invasive alien plants / bush encroachment# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of Sections 64-77 of NEMBA and therelevant sections of CARA, as amended.23All declared invasive alien plant species occurring in the reserve shall be eradicated, using themost cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods.While active bush encroachment control measures (mechanical, fire, biological and/orchemical) shall be adopted in the reserve in the short-term, the primary long-termmanagement objective is sound veld management practices (conservative wildlife stockingrates, natural patch burn regimes, adequate water provision and soil conservation).Heritage resources# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1 The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the NHRA.Biodiversity inventory, research and monitoring# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to monitoring: Guidelines for monitoring of climate and maintenance and establishment of climaterelatedinfrastructure on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/2).2The collection of baseline information, support for research projects and the ongoingimplementation of monitoring programmes shall be focused on, and directed towards,supporting operational planning and decision-making in the reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 33

Management actions and targetsKPA 1: Biodiversity and Heritage ConservationObjective 1.1: Re-establish, manage and maintain viable populations of locally indigenous fauna in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Develop and maintain a basic Wildlife Management Programme forAll wildlife stocking Carrying capacity of thethe WNR.densities contained vegetation (based on(ii) Under the direction of the LEDET Game Monitoring Strategyat levels below the VCA) vs. Large andconduct an aerial game census (during late winter).ecological capacity of medium-sized game(iii) Based on the outcomes of the most recent game census data, thethe vegetation. counts (based on gamecurrent veld condition assessment (VCA) and the stocking ratescensus).determined in the Wildlife Management Programme, annuallydetermine and implement the culling/capture requirements formedium-sized and large game species.(iv) Annually determine and allocate, in accordance with therequirements of the Wolkberg Co-Management Agreement, thecommunity portion of the culling/hunting activities.(v) Maintain and implement the water provision requirements forgame species, as described in the Wildlife Management Programme.(vi) Under direction of the Wildlife Management Programme(supplemented by consultation with wildlife specialists and the Seralaand Kgopa communities), implement any wildlife restocking or newintroductions that may be required.(vii) Assess, and implement, environmentally friendly measures toreduce the impacts of any damage-causing and problem animals(notably individuals of Chacma Baboon, Samango Monkey and VervetMonkey).ResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit)LEDET (BiodiversityUnit)LEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeReserve ManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit)Reserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 34

Objective 1.2: Maintain a natural fire regime within the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Prepare a simple, functional Fire Management Programme for theFires in the reserveWNR.do not have(ii) Under the direction of the Fire Management Programme, maintainundesirablea system of perimeter fire breaks and fire breaks around keyecological effects,infrastructure (e.g. the tourism camp, administrative facilities andthreaten reservestaff housing).infrastructure or(iii) Ensure that all reserve management staff are adequately trainedthreatenand equipped to implement the Fire Management Programme.neighbouringproperties.(iv) Establish and maintain formal and informal partnerships withneighbours and fire management agencies (e.g. the Department ofAgriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Working on Fire etc.) to improvethe capacity of the reserve to implement the Fire ManagementProgramme.(v) Install and maintain basic fire protection measures (e.g. fireextinguishers, fire hoses and roof sprinklers) in all affected tourism,administrative and staff accommodation buildings.(vi) Maintain, in accordance with the requirements of the FireManagement Programme, records of all fires occurring in the reserve.Objective 1.3: Contain the spread, and impacts of, invasive alien plants in the WNRCost of damage resultingfrom fires spreading toneighbouring properties(based on insuranceclaim).Cost of damage toreserve infrastructurefrom fires (based oninsurance claim).Ecological condition(based on vegetationmonitoring).Management action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Eradicate, on an ongoing basis, all known invasive alien plantNo seeding invasive Extent, by density, ofinfestations occurring in the reserve (incl. Blue Gum, Pine Tree, Pricklyalien plants.invasive alien plants.Pear and Solanum).(ii) Develop partnerships with funding and implementing agencies(e.g. WfW) to improve the capacity of the reserve to sustain itsinvasive alien plant control program.(iii) Develop working partnerships with neighbouring forestry areas tolimit the spread of alien plant species.(iv) Implement an ad hoc programme of mechanical and chemicalcontrol to contain the further spread, densification and impacts ofalien species.ResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit)Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerReserve Manager;Tourism Operator/sReserve ManagerResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 35

Objective 1.4: Protect the heritage resources of the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) In collaboration with academic institutions, research, documentHeritage resources State (using a gradingand inventorize the heritage resources of the reserve.documented, and system) of heritage(ii) Develop informational and interpretive materials about theproperly maintained. resources.reserve’s heritage resources.(iii) Develop and implement a prioritised programme of maintenanceof these heritage resources.ResponsibilityRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerTourismOperator/s; Seralaand KgopaCommunity TrustsReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Objective 1.5: Update key baseline information, and develop and maintain a targeted research and monitoring program to guide biodiversity management inthe WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Identify and prioritise the reserve’s biodiversity managementn/arequirements for baseline information, research and monitoring.(ii) Collect key baseline biodiversity data and research information forthe reserve, including vegetation community and species mapping;faunal species data and population profiles; carrying capacities of thereserve; optimal stocking rates of wildlife; fire history; optimal fireregimes for the reserve; climatological data collection; state of bushencroachment; and water availability and quality.(iii) Develop, implement and/or maintain key biodiversity monitoringactivities in the reserve, including vegetation monitoring; state of bushencroachment; and game counts.(iv) Facilitate access for external research institutions to implementthe reserve’s priority research and monitoring requirements.(v) Maintain information from field patrol fauna and flora records.Reserve database ofmanagementorientedbiodiversityinformation.ResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 36

KPA 2: SUSTAINABLE USEGuiding principles for reserve managementTourism and recreation infrastructure and services# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1In developing and maintaining tourism and recreational infrastructure and services, thereserve shall obtain the necessary authorisation in terms of the relevant building, water,drainage, health, safety, waste, traffic and environmental Acts, Regulations and By-laws.234Tourism and recreational infrastructure and services developed within the nature reservemust be appropriate to the purpose for which the reserve has been proclaimed, and must notthreaten its biodiversity or ecological function.Tourism and recreational infrastructure and services shall be developed in response totourism market demands and opportunities within the reserve, and should be carefullyassessed to determine its viability.A portion of the income derived from tourism and recreational services in the reserve shall bedistributed to the Serala and Kgopa communities in accordance with the relevant clauses inthe Wolkberg Co-Management Agreement.Marketing, awareness-raising and education# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall collaborate and cooperate with key local, regional and institutional partnersto: (i) strengthen the marketing of the reserve’s tourism and recreational infrastructure and1 services; (ii) improve the awareness of the reserve, and its prospective uses, in localcommunities; and (iii) further develop the use of the reserve as a local educational resourcefor teaching institutions.Natural resource harvesting# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to natural resource use: Guidelines for culling on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/7); Technical management guidelines and procedures for game capture on provincial1nature reserves (12/6/12/7/8); Policy on the donation of game from State-owned nature reserves to HistoricallyDisadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) in the wildlife industry; and Draft policy for the reduction of game from (provincial) nature reserves.2Sustainable use of natural and biological resources may be undertaken under strictlycontrolled conditions, provided that it does not compromise the ecological functioning orbiodiversity conservation imperatives of the reserve.3The WNRMC will review options for, and make recommendations to the ‘Executing Agency’on the distribution of benefits accruing from the consumptive harvesting of natural andbiological resources in the reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 37

Managing environmental impacts of use# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall strive to continually improve its environmental management systems,through reducing or mitigating the environmental impacts of, inter alia: administrative andvisitor infrastructure; solid waste disposal; water supply and distribution systems; energysupply and distribution networks; sewage systems; and herbicide and fuel supplies.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 38

Management actions and targetsKPA 2: Sustainable UseObjective 2.1: Construct, upgrade and maintain day visitor and overnight visitor buildings and infrastructure in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Assess the cost-effectiveness of different management options (e.g.Functional overnight Level of conformanceconcessioning, leasing, service agreement, community-managed, etc.)and day visitor (%) with South Africanfor the operating of future eco-tourism camps/lodges and select thebuildings andNational Standardpreferred/optimal management option/s.infrastructure. (SANS) 1197:2012.(ii) Implement, and formalise (as required), the selected managementoption for future eco-tourism camps/lodges.(iii) Construct and maintain the future overnight visitor buildings,facilities, equipment and linked infrastructure (including bulkinfrastructure), to meet LTA/LEDET standards for the provision ofnature-based tourism products.(iv) Upgrade, renovate and maintain the day visitor facilities in andaround the designated picnic site.(v) Upgrade, renovate and maintain the the overnightcamping/caravanning site.(vi) Standardise, install and maintain directional and informationalsignage within, and en route to, the reserve.Objective 2.2: Develop, deliver and maintain a range of tourism and recreational services for visitors to the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Support entrepreneurial opportunities for local communities toparticipate in the provision and management of tourist andrecreational products.(ii) Develop and promote the use of the WNR by birding groups.Effectively managedand regularlymaintained tourismand recreationalservices.Level of conformance(%) with South AfricanNational Standard(SANS) 1197:2012.ResponsibilityWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommittee; LTALTA; SeniorManager (SONR)Tourism Operator/sReserve Manager;Tourism Operator/sWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommittee; LTAReserve ManagerResponsibilityWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeTourismOperator/s;Time frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 39

(iii) Design, market and institute a guided, interpretive heritage routefor reserve visitors.(iv) Facilitate controlled access to the reserve for potential 4 x 4 trails,quad bike trails, hiking trails, mountain biking, rock climbing, trailrunning and horse trails.Reserve ManagerSerala and KgopaCommunity TrustsTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerObjective 2.3: Develop and implement a focused and cost-effective marketing, awareness-raising and educational programme for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Continually provide updated information in the ongoingNumbers of visitors anddevelopment of corporate, regional and provincial tourism marketingusers.products and materials.(ii) Design, publish and distribute reserve-specific brochures andpamphlets for visitors and users.(iii) Establish links with local educational institutions and networks inorder to promote subsidised access to, and use of, the reserve as aneducational resource.(iv) Maintain daily information about the reserve visitors and users(e.g. numbers/group, age category, gender, time of visit, length ofstay, nationality, etc.) in a standardised corporate format.Improved awarenessof tourism andrecreation productsin the reserve.Objective 2.4: Facilitate the sustainable use of natural resources by the Serala and Kgopa communities in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Annually determine the hunting/culling allocations to the Seralaand Kgopa communities.(ii) Develop, and administer, guidelines for the implementation of anyannual hunting/culling activities (or commercially outsourced hunting‘packages’) by the Serala and Kgopa communities.(iii) Develop, and administer, guidelines for the sustainable harvestingLevels of naturalresource use by theSerala and Kgopacommunities areecologicallysustainable.Compliance withguidelines (measured byfield ranger reports).ResponsibilityReserve Manager;Regional ManagerLTA; ReserveManager; TourismOperator/sTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); WolkbergNature ReserveManagementCommitteeLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); WolkbergNature ReserveManagementCommitteeReserve Manager;Time frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 40

of grass, medicinal plants and water (on request) from the reserve.Wolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeObjective 2.5: Manage and mitigate the environmental impacts of conservation management, tourism, recreation and natural resource use in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Introduce more environmentally-friendly technologies (e.g. lowNo extraneousn/awattage lighting, dual flush toilets, waterless urinals, water savingbuilding, equipmentshower heads, the removal of baths, bio-technology for wasteand infrastructure intreatment, drought tolerant grass, etc.) during the renovation andthe reserve.upgrading of the tourism and recreational buildings andinfrastructure, wherever this is cost-effective.(ii) Close and rehabilitate solid waste dumpsites in the reserve andcreate local work opportunities through recycling programmes.(iii) Close/remove/demolish and rehabilitate all extraneous andunused buildings and foundations, dumped materials, old equipment,gravel pits and old fencing.ResponsibilityTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 41

KPA 3: ENFORCEMENT, SECURITY AND ACCESS CONTROLGuiding principles for reserve managementBoundaries and access control# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to boundaries and access control: Technical management guideline and procedures for the management of access andaccess control on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/4); and Guidelines for fencing of provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/3).23The boundaries of the reserve shall, at all times, be clearly demarcated and regularlymaintained.All entry and exit points shall be properly managed to ensure that access to, and through, thereserve is effectively controlled at all times.Law enforcement and compliance# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1An adequately trained and suitably equipped field ranger complement shall be deployed inand around the reserve to, inter alia: control illegal activities; ensure the safety of visitors;monitor the activities of users and visitors; collect baseline information; and undertake thebasic maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 42

Management actions and targetsKPA 3: Enforcement, Security and Access ControlObjective 3.1: Secure the boundaries of, and maintain controlled access to, the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure that all reserve visitor gates and management entry pointsThe reserve assets Profile of reserve visitorsare adequately staffed and administered.are secure.and users.(ii) Initiate the construction of the perimeter fencing to meet allThe reserve visitors Incident record of illegalrequirements of the LEDET Technical Guidelines and Procedures (TGP)and users have access.for fencing.equitable access to(iii) Ensure regular maintenance of the perimeter fencing in thethe reserve, and arereserve.safe from harm.(iv) Develop, and implement, mechanisms for subsidised entry forlocal community user and interest groups.(v) Provide, on request, controlled access to recognisedcultural/religious sites for non-destructive or consumptivecultural/religious practices.(vi) Facilitate controlled access for external institutions undertakingrelevant research and monitoring programs within the reserve.Objective 3.2: Sustain an effective law enforcement and compliance capacity in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure the provision of enforcement and compliance training for allIncremental decrease Number of formalreserve field staff.in incidences of warnings and fines(ii) Ensure that the field ranger staff complement is adequatelyillegal activities issued, and successfulresourced and equipped to fulfil an effective enforcement andoccurring in the prosecutions concluded.compliance function.reserve.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerResponsibilityLEDET: HR, HRDLEDET: HR, HRD &SISTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 43

(iii) Maintain regular patrols of the reserve and its boundaries.(iv) Maintain and collate information on all enforcement incidents.(v) Undertake a threat analysis to determine all potential threats tothe safety and security of the reserve.Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerLEDET: SONR &SpecialInvestigationsLEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 44

KPA 4: INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT (OPERATIONS)Guiding principles for reserve managementRoads, track and footpaths# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to the development, maintenance and upgrading of roads: Technical management guidelines and procedures for the development, maintenanceand upgrading of roads in provincial nature reserves.2The reserve shall rationalise its network of roads, tracks and footpaths to reduce maintenancecosts and limit environmental impacts, while ensuring adequate access for tourism andoperational management requirements.Bulk services# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following legislation in supplyingbulk services: NEMWA;1 WSA; NBRBSA; and Municipal By-laws.2The reserve shall strive to phase out bulk services that have a detrimental impact on theenvironment. It shall, in turn, seek to introduce more sustainable technologies, whereverpracticable and cost-effective.Administrative and other operations infrastructure# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1In developing and maintaining administrative and operations infrastructure, the reserve shallobtain the necessary authorisation in terms of the relevant building, water, drainage, health,safety, waste, traffic and environmental Acts, Regulations and By-laws.2Administrative and operations infrastructure and services must be limited, and appropriatelyscaled, to the necessary administrative and operational requirements of the reserve, andmust not threaten its biodiversity or ecological function.Operations equipment and vehicles# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall acquire and/or replace the equipment and vehicles necessary to implementthe high priority activities identified in this SP.2All reserve equipment and vehicles shall be regularly maintained in accordance with themanufacturers’ specifications.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 45

Management actions and targetsKPA 4: Infrastructure and equipment (operations)Objective 4.1: Develop and maintain the road, track and footpath network in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Schedule and implement the upgrade and maintenance of theA rationalised State (using a gradingnetwork of visitor roads in the reserve, with a strong focus onnetwork of wellmaintainedsystem) of visitor roadsmaintaining and mitigating highly erodible areas.visitor and footpaths.(ii) Close and rehabilitate all unused, extraneous and/or highlyroads and footpaths.erodible, tracks and roads in the reserve.(iii) Develop and maintain a rationalised network of self-guided and/orguided hiking trails traversing the reserve.Objective 4.2: Construct, maintain and upgrade the bulk services infrastructure in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Facilitate the provision of ESKOM power to the WNR, includingRecords of instances ofcritical staff accommodation, all administrative facilities and futureoverloading of the bulktourism facilities.service supplies.(ii) Install and maintain generator and/or solar power systems for thefunctioning of remote park operational equipment (e.g. water pumps)and the smaller tourism and recreational facilities.(iii) Expand and upgrade the water supply, storage and treatmentcapacity for the reserve.(iv) Improve and expand the capacity of the waste treatment facilitiesand waste removal systems for the reserve by, for example,implementing a community recycling programme.Capacity of bulkservices exceedsadministrative userequirements andreserve visitordemands.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve Manager;Tourism Operator/sResponsibilityTourismOperator/s;Regional ManagerReserve ManagerTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerTourismOperator/s;Reserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 46

Objective 4.3: Construct, upgrade and maintain administrative, staff and operational buildings and infrastructure in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Upgrade existing administration buildings and associated facilities.Sufficient, and State (using a gradingadequatelysystem) of reservemaintained, reserve buildings and(ii) Upgrade existing staff accommodation, utilising environmentallyadministration, staff infrastructure.friendly infrastructure, e.g. solar geysers, etc.and operations(iii) Upgrade the entrance/control gate infrastructure and associatedbuildings andablution facilities, as well as the picnic/camp site.infrastructure.(iv) Ensure the regular maintenance of all reserve administrative, staffand operational buildings and infrastructure.(v) Maintain and constantly update an equipment and infrastructureregister.Objective 4.4: Acquire and maintain operational equipment and vehicles for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Procure, install and maintain a reliable internal communicationsSufficient, and State (using a gradingnetwork for the reserve, including repeaters, a base station, handheldadequatelysystem) of reserveradios and car radios.maintained reserve equipment and vehicles.(ii) Install, maintain and service solar pumps at all game water points,equipment andand upgrade and service the existing diesel driven borehole.vehicles.(iii) Assess the cost effectiveness of the acquisition of more firefighting equipment, e.g. water tankers, water knap sacks, beaters, driptorches, etc.(iv) Maintain and/or replace all reserve vehicles and equipmentaccording to the manufacturers’ specifications and/or corporatereplacement cycles. Investigate fixing the Samel 20 4x4 vehicle.(v) Establish/investigate the feasibility of an electronic network (i.e.internet, e-mail and cellphone coverage) for, and connect services andapplications to, the reserve.ResponsibilityDepartment ofPublic Works;Regional ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerResponsibilityRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerRegional ManagerLEDET: TransportLEDET: ITTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 47

KPA 5: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENTGuiding principles for reserve managementWolkberg Nature Reserve Management Committee# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall actively participate in, and support, the WNRMC as an importantgovernance mechanism to achieve the aims and objectives of the Wolkberg Co-ManagementAgreement.Stakeholder communications# GUIDING PRINCIPLESStakeholder communications shall be focused on strengthening a sense of ownership andempowerment in the Serala and Kgopa communities through an improved understanding of1the contribution of the reserve to socio-economic development and heritage/biodiversityconservation.2Stakeholder communications shall seek to develop a common understanding in thesurrounding communities of the issues affecting the integrity of the reserve, and collaborativeapproaches to resolve these.Local and regional initiatives# GUIDING PRINCIPLE12The reserve management shall actively collaborate with national, provincial and local tourismand conservation initiatives that could contribute to meeting the objectives of this SP.The reserve shall strive to work with the relevant government institutions in order tointegrate all local and regional planning and socio-economic development activities affectingthe reserve.Employment, empowerment and capacity building# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall strive to meet to the socio-economic development commitments made inthe Wolkberg Co-Management Agreement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 48

Management actions and targetsKPA 5: Stakeholder InvolvementObjective 5.1: Ensure the ongoing involvement of a representative and functional Wolkberg Nature Reserve Management Committee in the planning,development and management of the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Provide ongoing support (logistical, administrative, technical,Record of meetings andprofessional, financial and/or leadership) to, and actively participatedecisions.in, an effectively functioning WNRMC.(ii) Continually review, and amend (as required), the structure,representation and TOR of the WNRMC to ensure that it contributesto realising the intent of the Wolkberg Co-Management Agreement.(iii) Support the ongoing capacity building of the Serala and Kgopacommunity representatives on the WNRMC.(iv) Allocate office space in the upgraded administrative complex (see4.3 (i) above) for office bearers of the WNRMC.Regular meetings ofthe WNRMC.Implementation ofdecisions made byWNRMC.ResponsibilityReserve Manager;Regional ManagerWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeReserve Manager;Regional ManagerReserve ManagerObjective 5.2: Develop and implement effective mechanisms for on going communications with local stakeholders and neighbouring communitiesManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Host a regular monthly meeting, each in a different neighbouringRecord of meetings.village, to present and discuss issues of mutual concern.(ii) Initiate and sustain ongoing communications with commercial andcommunal landowners in the Wolkberg area to discuss opportunitiesfor ongoing cooperation and collaboration.Regular meetingswith neighbouringvillages andcommercial andcommunallandowners.ResponsibilityWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 49

Objective 5.3: Actively participate in local and regional conservation and socio-economic initiatives that may affect or benefit the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Participate in local municipal IDP planning processes, with a specificImproved costeffectivenessn/afocus on the provision of municipal infrastructure and services to theofreserve and supporting local economic development initiatives in thereserve operations asSerala and Kgopa communities.a result of(ii) Participate in the planning and development of the Kruger tolocal/regionalCanyons Biosphere Region as this develops.partnerships.(iii) Support local/regional initiatives to establish a FPA, with a specificfocus on rationalising the reserve firebreaks and improving access tofire-fighting resources and support.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve Manager;Regional ManagerReserve ManagerObjective 5.4: Identify and enable access to employment, empowerment and capacity building opportunities for the Serala and Kgopa communitiesManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Review and select the preferred mechanisms for optimisingemployment, empowerment and capacity building opportunities forthe Serala and Khopa communities.(ii) Develop opportunities for selected individuals from the Serala andKgopa communities to be trained and directly employed inappropriate conservation and tourism related work, including: fencingconstruction and maintenance; capital development projects; tourismservices; invasive alien plant and bush encroachment control; security;road and footpath maintenance; and guiding services.(iii) Develop opportunities to facilitate an empowerment componentfor selected individuals from the Serala and Kgopa communities in anyoutsourcing/concessioning of tourism and recreational products bythe reserve.(iv) Identify, and make application for, EPWP-related funding forrelevant tourism and conservation initiatives in the reserve.(v) Identify, and if feasible develop, opportunities for theestablishment of community-based entrepreneurial opportunitieswithin, or linked to, the reserve, including: game drives; selling curiosand crafts; guided walking trails; conservation enterprises; and horseDirect andmeasurable benefitsaccrue to the Seralaand Kgopacommunities fromthe WNR.Extent (number ofbeneficiaries) and nature(employment –permanent/ temporary;business opportunity;training; capacitybuilding)of communitybenefits.ResponsibilityWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommitteeWolkberg NatureReserveManagementCommittee;Reserve ManagerTourism Operator/sLEDET: EconomicDevelopmentLEDET: EconomicDevelopmentTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 50

trails.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 51

KPA 6: ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNINGGuiding principles for reserve managementLegal status# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The legal tenure for the effective planning and management of the reserve as a provincialprotected area shall be secured.Human resources# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following human resourceslegislation: LRA; BCEA;1 EEA; SDA; OHSA; and PSA.2The reserve shall, in partnership with the Serala and Kgopa communities, identifyopportunities for the training, capacity building and/or preferential employment of individualspermanently resident in surrounding villages.Administration# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following financial managementlegislation: PFMA (and associated Treasury Regulations).23The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to supply chain management: Draft procedure manual for demand and acquisition management.The reserve shall conform to all relevant provincial/departmental financial and administrativereporting requirements.Information management# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1All information that is used to support the operational planning and decision-making in thereserve shall be collected, collated, updated, maintained and presented in a cost-effectiveformat that is readily accessible for use by management.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 52

Management actions and targetsKPA 6: Administration and PlanningObjective 6.1: Secure the legal tenure of, and management authority for, the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicatorsResponsibility(i) Review the efficacy and ongoing relevance of the Wolkberg Co-n/a n/a Wolkberg NatureManagement Agreement and amend or revise, as required.ReserveManagementCommitteeObjective 6.2: Maintain an adequately equipped, resourced and trained staff complement for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicatorsResponsibility(i) Ensure that all vacant posts in the reserve’s approved organogramn/a n/a Regional Managerare filled.(ii) Identify training needs, and facilitate access to training programs,Reserve Manager;for reserve staff, with a priority focus on field ranger, first aid,Regional Managerhospitality and IT skills training.(iii) Implement the institutional staff performance appraisal system.Reserve Manager(iv) Ensure that each staff member is regularly issued with uniform,Reserve Managerprotective clothing (as may be required) and the necessary equipmentto fulfil their job function.(v) Maintain all staff information for the reserve (leave records,Reserve Managerattendance registers, overtime, etc.).(vi) Implement the institutional Occupational Health and SafetyReserve Managerpolicies and procedures in the reserve.Objective 6.3: Institute and maintain an effective administrative and planning capability in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Maintain and update all assets and stock inventory registers andAsset inventory, Spot checks.reports for the reserve.stock registers,ResponsibilityReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 53

(ii) Maintain a reserve-based record of all purchases made, accountspaid and services procured in support of reserve operations over eachfinancial year.(iii) Prepare the reserve APO.(iv) Facilitate the implementation of annual METT-SA assessments forthe reserve.financial records,monthly reports andAPOs are all up todate.Objective 6.4: Establish, maintain and host a reliable inventory of key information on the WNR and its ongoing managementManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Prepare and submit monthly reports to the Regional Manager.Up to date, andn/a(ii) Institute and maintain an electronic and/or hard copy filing systemaccessible,for all reserve-specific information.information on thereserve and itsmanagement.Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 54

5. RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORKThis section provides brief recommendations on the minimum staffing complement and funding thatwould be required to implement the RMP (i.e. the SP and APO).This section also briefly describes the key responsibilities of the reserve management team andWNRMC in the development, implementation, monitoring and review of the RMP.5.1 Staffing RequirementsIt is proposed that the following minimum staffing complement 6 would be required to implement thisSP 7 :POST DESIGNATIONNUMBERReserve Manager 1Chief Nature Conservator 1Nature Conservator 8 2Field Ranger 20Logistical Support Services:CleanerGeneral Worker210Administrative Officer 3Messenger 1Artisan 1Gate Guard 12Total 536 This minimum staff complement assumes that the overnight tourism facilities and services are outsourced to an operator or concessionaireand that the reserve management is not directly responsible for the management of these facilities and services.7 The staffing requirements reflected in the SP are premised on two elements: (i) a critical assessment of the efficacy of the current approved(not actual) organogram for the reserve in respect of current reserve management responsibilities; and (ii) a facilitated discussion with the RPTon any (mostly minor) adjustments/changes that may be required to this approved organogram in order to more effectively implement the SPfor the next five years.8 Including Senior/Sergeant/Principal Field Ranger.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 55

5.2 Funding RequirementsIt is proposed that the following operational 9 and capital 10 budget would be required to implement this SP:KEY PERFORMANCE AREA2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)KPA 1: Biodiversity and heritage conservation 500,000 75,000 200,000 70,000 150,000 65,000 0 70,000 0 70,000KPA 2: Sustainable use 2,200,000 65,000 1,500,000 55,000 250,000 50,000 0 50,000 200,000 50,000KPA 3: Enforcement, security and access control 3,000,000 80,000 500,000 60,000 150,000 50,000 0 45,000 0 45,000KPA 4: Infrastructure and equipment 2,500,000 70,000 1,500,000 70,000 750,000 60,000 350,000 50,000 150,000 50,000KPA 5: Stakeholder involvement 0 15,000 0 15,000 0 20,000 0 20,000 0 20,000KPA 6: Administration and planning 0 40,000 0 45,000 0 50,000 0 65,000 0 65,000Total 8,200,000 345,000 3,700,000 315,000 1,300,000 295,000 350,000 300,000 350,000 300,0009 Operational costs are roughly based on an area-complexity factor (i.e. different cost ranges per ha, based on the level (high, medium or low) of management complexity). This was then moderated against documentedexpenditure for operational costs in LEDET reserves, wherever available. This was then again moderated against equivalent reserves in Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Western Cape, as well as reserves of SANParks and ECParks,where operating costs have stabilised and are well documented over a period of three to five years.10 Capital budget requirements are roughly based on known costs for similar capital investments, either in terms of replacement costs (e.g. vehicles), infrastructure development costs (e.g. cost/ha or cost/km for fencing orroads), bulk services (e.g. costs/m for pipelines, etc.), or building costs (e.g. cost/m 2 for staff accommodation or chalets), etc.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 56

5.3 Roles and ResponsibilitiesThe key responsibilities of the reserve management team and the WNRMC in the development,implementation, monitoring and review of the RMP are summarised as follows:RESERVE MANAGEMENT TEAM (SONR)Regional Manager(Capricorn District)Reserve Manager(Wolkberg NatureReserve)Biodiversity Unit(LEDET HO)The Regional Manager shall have overall responsibility for: Ensuring the alignment of the SP with Provincial and LEDET policies andguidelines; Ensuring the coordination and alignment of the SP with other LEDETdepartmental activities and initiatives; Providing oversight of the implementation of the SP and APO; Reporting on the performance of the WNR in the implementation ofthe SP and APO to the Senior Manager (SONR); Instituting corrective actions to ensure that the SP and linked APO isimplemented, reviewed and updated; and Approval of the APO.The Reserve Manager shall have direct responsibility for: Annually drafting an APO to operationalise the priority activitiesidentified in the SP; Implementation of the APO; Monitoring of performance against the APO (and the SP); Reporting on performance of the WNR against the APO (and the SP) tothe WNRMC; Management of reserve staff, resources and finances in theimplementation of the APO; and Communicating with the Regional Manager about obstacles in theimplementation of the APO.The Biodiversity Unit of LEDET shall have direct responsibility for: Implementation of the designated priority activities in the SP, andlinked APO; and Providing professional and technical support to the Regional Manager,Reserve Manager and WNRMC in the implementation of the SP andAPO.WOLKBERG NATURE RESERVE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEEThe WNRMC shall have overall responsibility for: Representing the interests of the different reserve stakeholder groups and institutions duringthe preparation of the SP and APOs; Overseeing the drafting of the SP and APOs; Providing strategic inputs into the drafting of the SP, and technical inputs into the annualdrafting of the APOs; Making recommendations to the Regional Manager on the adoption of the SP and annual APOs; Reviewing the quarterly and annual performance of the APO (and SP); and Providing inputs into ad hoc and emergency reserve decision-making not adequately addressedin the SP/APO.The Regional Manager and Senior Manager (SONR) are the officials responsible for submitting the SP tothe Head of Department (HOD, Economic Development, Environment and Tourism) for formal approvaland adoption. The HOD will then submit the approved SP to the Limpopo MEC for EconomicDevelopment, Environment and Tourism as per the requirements of NEMPAA. This can be summarizedas follows:LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 57

RESERVEMANAGEMENTPLANCOMPONENTSP / APO Reserve Manager WolkbergNature ReserveManagementSP / APORESPONSIBILITY SUBMIT TO OUTCOME SOUGHT FREQUENCYRegionalManagerCommitteeSenior Manager(SONR)Approval of finaldraft.Approval of finalversion of SP andAPO.DepartmentalSPSenior Manager HOD (LEDET)(SONR)adoption of SP.SP HOD (LEDET) MEC (LEDET) Formal approvaland adoption as perlegal requirements.SP (at 5-yearintervals);APO (annually)SP (5-yearly);APO (annually)SP (5-yearly)SP (5-yearly)LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 58

6. BIBLIOGRAPHYThe following references were extensively consulted during the drafting of this document:Birdlife South Africa. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed June 2012].Capricorn District Municipality. 2012. IDP/Budget: 2012/2013. Final Reviewed District MunicipalIntegrated Development Plan.Cowan, G.I. & Mpongoma, N. 2011. Guidelines for the development of a management plan for aprotected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003.Unpublished document.DWAF. 2012. [online] Avialable at:[Accessed June 2012].IUCN. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed July 2012].Kruger 2 Canyons Biosphere Region NPC. 2012. Business Plan – 2012.LEDET. 2012. Guidelines for the development of Management Plans for Limpopo’s Provincial NatureReserves. Unpublished planning guideline.Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality. 2012. IDP: 2012 - 2016. Local Municipal Integrated DevelopmentPlan.Limpopo Department of Agriculture. 2012. [online] Available at: [AccessedJune 2012].LTA. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed June 2012].Mountain Getaways. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed June 2012].Mucina, L. & Rutherford, M.C. (eds.). 2006. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.Nel, E.J. & Kruger, J.W. 2012. Scientific Review: State Owned Nature Reserves – Limpopo. Unpublishedreport.Plak. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed June 2012].SA.net. 2012. [online] Available at: < http://www.southafrica.net/sat/content/en/za/fullarticle?oid=317320&sn=Detail&pid=1>[Accessed June 2012].SA Places. 2012. [online] Available at: < http://www.places.co.za/html/wolkbergwa.html> [AccessedJune 2012].LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 59

Tzaneen Info. 2012. [online] Avialable at: [Accessed 19 June].LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 60

ANNEXURE 1: ZONATION CATEGORIES (CHARACTERISTICS)The main characteristics of each use zone are summarized in the tables below:ZONEZONE OBJECTIVECHARACTERISTICSVISITOR ACTIVITIESFACILITIES /INFRASTRUCTUREVISITOR ACCESSMANAGEMENTGUIDELINESNaturalUsers:− To provide easy accessto experience thereserve’s naturallandscapes, habitats,species and heritageresources.Conservation:− To minimise andmitigate the effects ofvisitor use on thereserve’s naturalhabitats and speciesand its cultural sites.- Areas of extensive andaccessible naturalhabitats and species.- Areas with importantheritage sites andfeatures.- Areas whose primaryhabitats, species andcultural sites areresilient to the impactsof regular visitor use.- Areas with popular viewsites or natural andcultural attractions.- Areas with an extensiveand accessible road, trailand track network.- Areas that require activeconservationmanagementinterventions.- Areas with moderatelevels of visibilityobtrusiveness.- Game viewing.- Motorised 2x4 selfdriveaccess ondesignated routes.- Permitted motorised4x4 trails ondesignated routes.- Day hiking trailsand/or short trails.- Bird hides, canoeing,mountain biking androck-climbing,where appropriate.- Other recreationalactivities that maybe consideredappropriate byreservemanagement.- No accommodationor camping.−−−−−−−Self-drive roads and 4x4tracks. Roads may besurfaced where visitor uselevels are high.Management accessroads and managementtracks.Perimeter firebreaks.Small picnic areas andablution facilities may beprovided.Parking or viewing sites/areas may be provided.No accommodation orcamping.Signage may be erectedto designate routes(including 4x4, horse,MTB, canoe, 2x4 selfdrive,etc.), closed areasor junctions.- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Vehicle access ondedicated routes,with pedestrianaccess from parkingareas or adjacentdevelopment zones.- On water, only nonmotorisedcraftsallowed, unlessotherwise agreed.Visitor andconservationmanagement:- Intensivemaintenance ofvisitor facilitiesandinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.− Intensiveconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.Consumptive Use:− Sustainable useof naturalresources may,where feasible,be considered onapplication, andsubject to aformal permittingarrangement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 61

Development – Low IntensityUsers:− To provide small tomedium-sized picnic,accommodationand/or campingfacilities and services.− To facilitate access toenvironmentaleducational facilitiesand services.Conservation:− To contain the impactsand footprint ofreserve visitorfacilities, services andinfrastructure.−−−−−−−−−−Areas with acontained, low-densitydevelopmentfootprint.Areas with roads, trailsand small to mediumscalerecreationalfacilities andaccommodationinfrastructure.Degraded ortransformed areas.Natural or seminaturalhabitats.Areas with a highvisitor absorptivecapacity.Areas with limitedbiodiversitysignificance.Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.Areas where risk offire damage toinfrastructure is low,or can be mitigated.Areas with lowvisibility from thesurroundinglandscape.Areas that have accessto potable water, andnot sensitive todisposal of treatedwastewater.−−−−−Picnic and braaiing.Parking.Overnightaccommodation.Camping/caravanning.Environmentaleducation.- Reception offices.- Small camping/caravanning facilities.- Small lodges/ tentedcamps/ self-catering units.- Small restaurant orcatering facilities forovernight guests only.- Surfaced roads andparking areas.- Bird hides.- Services (power, wastemanagement, water,etc.).- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Motorised self-drivecar access.- Tour bus access.- Parking and walk-infor day and overnightvisitors.- Intensivedevelopment andmaintenance ofvisitor facilities,services andinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.- Limitedconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.− Risk management(e.g. fire safety)measuresimplemented.− Developmentfootprint activelycontained.Consumptive Use:− Sustainable useof naturalresources may,where feasible,be considered onapplication, andsubject to aformal permittingarrangement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 62

Development – High IntensityUsers:− To provide mediumsized to large scaleaccommodationfacilities, andassociated attractionsand conveniences.Conservation:− To contain the impactsand footprint ofreserve visitorfacilities, services andinfrastructure.−−−−−−−−−−Areas with an extensivehigh-densitydevelopment footprint.Areas with roads, trailsand small to mediumscalerecreationalfacilities andaccommodationinfrastructure.Degraded ortransformed areas.Natural or semi-naturalhabitats.Areas with a high visitorabsorptive capacity.Areas with limitedbiodiversity significance.Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.Areas where risk of firedamage toinfrastructure is low, orcan be mitigated.Areas with low visibilityfrom the surroundinglandscape.Areas that have accessto potable water, andnot sensitive to disposalof treated wastewater.- Picnicking andbraaiing.- Overnightaccommodation.- Camping/caravanning.- Meetings, workshopor mini conferenceactivities.- Parking.- Swimming.- Medium-sized lodges orhotels.- High density self-cateringunits.- Medium to large-scalecamping/ caravanningfacilities.- Fuel supply pump.- Amenities, includingrestaurants and shops.- Surfaced roads.- Services (power, wastemanagement, water, etc.).- Swimming pool.- Air strip.- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Motorised self-drivecar access.- Tour bus access.- Parking and walk-infor day and overnightvisitors.- Air access may bepermitted.Visitor andconservationmanagement:- Intensivedevelopment andmaintenance ofvisitor facilities,services andinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.- Limitedconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.− Risk management(e.g. fire safety)measures−implemented.Developmentfootprint activelycontained.Consumptive Use:- None.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 63

Development - Reserve AdministrationTo define the location ofthe infrastructure andfacilities for reserveadministration.- Areas with extensivedegraded or transformedfootprints.- Areas able toaccommodate highdisturbance, with noidentified sensitivebiodiversity.- Areas proximate to highand low intensitydevelopment zones.- Areas with low visibilityfrom the surroundinglandscape.- Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.- Areas that have access topotable water, and notsensitive to disposal oftreated wastewater.n/a − Administrative offices.− Storage facilities.− Garage facilities.− Workshops.− Game capture andholding facilities.− Parking.NOTE:Reserve administrative officesmay also be located within theDevelopment - Low/HighIntensity Zones.Access to reservereception andadministrative offices.n/aLEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 64

Special Protection / Special ManagementSpecial Protection (Species, Habitats,Heritage)Special Management (Resource Utilisation)−−−Protection ofspecies,habitats orheritage sitesof specialconservationconcern.Restrictaccess topreventdisturbanceand/ordamage.Regulationand control ofresourceutilisation(commercialand/orcommunitybased),includinghunting.- Sites or areas whereuncontrolled publicaccess is undesirable dueto the presence ofthreatened species andhabitats or sensitiveheritage features.- Demarcated sites orareas where seasonalutilisation of naturalresources (e.g.harvesting of grass forthatching, collection ofreeds for buildingmaterial, hunting ofwildlife for trophies ormeat, etc.) takes place.- Research.- Guided nature/heritage visits understrictly controlledconditions.- Motorised access ondesignated routes(primarily gravelroads).- Walking access ondesignated footpathsand trails.- Commercial hunting,under strict permitconditions.Usually none, but footpathsand tracks to allowmanagement access may bepermitted.Where visitor access ispermitted, strict accesscontrol is required to delimitaccess routes, and, ifnecessary, screen visitors; i.e.hides, boardwalks, screenedroutes, and paths with railingsmay be appropriate.Self-drive roads, 4x4 tracks,management access roadsand management tracks.Parking or viewing sites/ areasmay be provided.Basic accommodation orcamping facilities may beprovided.Signage may be erected todesignate seasonally closedareas.Public / tourism accessnormally not allowed.May be permitted undervery tightly controlledconditions, to bedetermined per site.Public / tourism accesswill only be regulatedduring the resourceutilisation season.For hunting areas, thezone will be closed for allother visitors.For other resourceutilisation zones,public/tourism accessmay be permitted,although the specificaccess conditions willvary from site to site.Visitor andconservationmanagement:− Restrictions onaccess andnumbers ofvisitors may beenforced.− Activeconservationand heritagemanagementactivitiesundertaken, asrequired.Consumptive Use:- None.Visitor andconservationmanagement:−−Seasonalrestrictions onaccess may beenforced.Activemanagement ofresourceutilisationpermits.Consumptive Use:- Naturalresourceharvesting andcollection.LEDET Reserve Management Documents:Wolkberg Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 65

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