'Bark stripping' for traditional medicine: SANParks fights back
The unsustainable practice of bark stripping involves removing bark from around the entire trunk (also called ring barking ), which ends up killing the tree.
The bark is used in traditional healing practices, and can fetch up to R200 per piece.
'Bark stripping' not only destroys ancient, seed-bearing trees but also disrupts the forest's natural ability to regenerate.
To help prevent further destruction, South African National Parks (SANParks) has begun applying grey water-based PVA paint to the trunks of at-risk trees.
This non-toxic coating discourages bark collectors by making the bark undesirable for traditional use.
At the same time, over 50 indigenous saplings – including species such as Cape Beech, Cape Holly, and Wild Almond – are being planted along the Woodcutters Trail at Newlands Forest.
In July 2024, SANParks, in partnership with the Cape Research Centre and Biodiversity Special Project, launched a seedling programme funded by the French Government and Agence Francaise de Developpement.
Seeds were carefully collected and grown to seedling and sapling stage.
'The rehabilitation initiative is necessary due to the effects of illegal and unsustainable bark stripping that has occurred in the forest,' SANParks said in a statement.
'The strategy includes intelligence gathering, law enforcement actions, and proactive solutions such as painting of mature trees, seed collection and planting of trees in affected areas.'
SANParks are also working with traditional healers to create awareness and find a sustainable solution.
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