Mountainous landscapes spanning
critical water catchments.
LANGKLOOF
The Langkloof, is south of the Baviaanskloof, and is a vital hub for pome fruit production – South Africa’s fourth-largest agricultural export. Predominantly covered in Fynbos, it forms part of the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world’s six floral kingdoms.
Flanked by the Kouga and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges, the region relies on these critical water sources.
While the mountains are unsuitable for farming, pome fruit cultivation is concentrated in just 5% of the valley floor.The slopes host wild honeybush, harvested for herbal tea. Our work in the Langkloof focuses on supporting a sustainable honeybush industry, managing invasive trees, and implementing fire management strategies.
About the Langkloof
Active since
Hectares:
2015
140 000
BIOMES
Fynbos, Forest, Subtropical Thicket
Landscape partners
Southern Cape and Sarah Baartman Fire Protection Associations, South African Honeybush Tea Association, Waboomsrivier Irrigation Board
Global funding partners
Commonland, The Irene M. Staehlin Foundation, The Coca Cola Foundation, WWF Nedbank Green Trust
Our impact in the different landscape zones
Challenges
Invasive alien tree species encroaching on catchment areas, reducing water security
Increased risk of wildfires
Limited employment opportunities
Opportunities
Invasive Species Management – Clearing invasive trees can restore water security, conserve biodiversity and support local industries such as wild honeybush.
Strategic Fire Management – Controlled burns and firebreaks can reduce wildfire risks and support invasive species management.
Volumetric Water Benefits – In landscape restoration projects, understanding this can guide the implementation of techniques that maximize water retention in the soil, ensuring sustainable vegetation growth and improved ecosystem health.
Green Job Creation – Restoration, conservation, and sustainable land use initiatives can generate employment.