The Boyes Drive Alien Invasive Hacking Group has reported significant progress in clearing invasive vegetation along Boyes Drive and surrounding slopes, with an 80% success rate in cleared areas.
According to founder Karen Hart, the group has been working closely with SANParks to clear invasive plants such as lantana and lavender, which have spread into the area.
Key Focus Areas
The group has targeted several areas between Lakeside, Boyes Drive, and Steenberg, including sites affected by recent fires and regrowth over the past two years.
A key focus has been the burnt section near the Steenberg Plateau car park, where teams cleared regrowth following the January 2023 fire.
Further clearing was conducted below Boyes Drive, between Lakeside and the steps at Bunker Road, following the April 2025 fire.
Clearing Operations
The group has also worked around the climbers’ path on Lakeside Pinnacle and nearby slopes, with assistance from the Traffic Department on several occasions.
This included the temporary closure of the northbound lane at Old Boyes Drive, with traffic diverted to Main Road to ensure safe working conditions.
SANParks assisted with biomass removal during operations.
Between March 2025 and February 2026, volunteers contributed 1,438 hours of work — equivalent to about 180 full working days.
- 1,438 hours of volunteer work
- 180 full working days equivalent
- 80% success rate in cleared areas
The project received R96,880 over the period, with R81,860 spent on three gardeners.
Additional costs included tools, protective equipment, and travel, while SANParks covered herbicide costs.
The remaining balance carried forward is R21,954.68.
Looking ahead, the group will shift its focus to larger priority areas, including Nbal 274, Nbal 245, and burnt zones in Nbal 085 and Nbal 086 affected in April 2025.
