HFM Stream Interview: Restoring the Upper Blyde

Simon Attwood, K2C’s Project Manager of the Upper Blyde Restoration Project spoke to HFM Stream’s Llewell Viljoen about his journey from fine art and botanical research into hands-on alien invasive plant clearing and catchment restoration in the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region.

“Alien invasive trees take water, destroy biodiversity, and even damage rock art. Leaving them is not an option.”

Simon unpacks why invasive pine, wattle and gum trees pose such a serious threat to the escarpment, not only for water security and biodiversity, but also by increasing the risk of wildfires, and the protection of irreplaceable rock art hidden within the landscape. The conversation offers insight into how targeted, science-led restoration can unlock multiple benefits at once, from healthier catchments to meaningful local livelihoods.

This is a thoughtful discussion about restoration as long-term care for a living landscape, where ecological health, cultural heritage and community wellbeing are deeply intertwined.

Thank you to HFM Stream for giving K2C this platform to share our story!