31-07-2025
Foley explores next steps as Red Fern emerges after R300K Kariba weed cleanup
Ward 94 Councillor David Foley has confirmed that a new solution is being explored to address the persistent issue of weed overgrowth at Lonehill Dam.
Following discussions with Ian Ross from International Metal Processing (IMP), a company that offers sustainable solutions in the air, water, and agricultural sectors, Foley shared that a rim flow device is being proposed as a practical intervention.
'The solution is to put a rim flow device in place, probably close to the braai room, which will float on the top and ensure it is chopped out and deposited on the bank for removal,' he said.
Also read: Lonehill Dam swaps green for red as new weed moves in
The proposed device is designed to target the red fern invasive aquatic weed by skimming the surface, cutting the growth, and depositing the material along the bank for easy removal.
Foley added that the plan will first need to be approved by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), and due to the announcement of council days this week, his meeting with the entity has been postponed to next week.
This latest development comes just after the dam underwent a nine-week rehabilitation process aimed at restoring its health following a severe Kariba weed infestation.
The Kariba weed cleanup alone cost JCPZ R300,000 and involved 20 days of hired equipment, which included an operator and fuel.
Also read: Lonehill Dam Kariba weed clean-up shows promising progress
Foley was on-site at the dam on June 6 with local stakeholder Rob van der Pauw to add eco granules, reinforcing the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
'They could all see that the dam is no doubt getting better every day,' said Foley.
Noeleen Mattera from JCPZ was reached out for comment with these questions below. Despite following up, no response was received.
Following the successful control of the Kariba weed at Lonehill Dam, what measures is City Parks planning to address the newly emerging red fern species, and how does its behaviour or risk compare to that of Kariba weed?
Will City Parks consider reintroducing amphibious harvesters or other mechanical solutions, as previously deployed, to manage the red fern? Or is there a shift toward relying more heavily on eco-treatment methods like granules?
Given the changing nature of aquatic invasive species in urban water bodies like Lonehill Dam, is City Parks exploring a more permanent or preventative ecological management plan to avoid recurring infestations each season?
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