04/06/2026
SANParks Plants Over 300 Indigenous Trees at Newlands Forest to Advance Ecological Restoration Efforts
South African National Parks (SANParks) continues to make significant strides in restoration efforts in Newlands Forest, Table Mountain National Park, through its ongoing rehabilitation programme, with the planting of over 300 indigenous trees in the latest phase of the project.
Following the successful implementation of the first and second phases in June and July 2025, during which more than 150 indigenous trees were planted in partnership with key stakeholders, the third phase took place on 3 June 2026.
During this phase, a dedicated SANParks team from the Cape Research Centre, supported by SANParks ranger teams and volunteer students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), planted 300 Cape Beech (Rapanea melanophloes), commonly known as Boekenhout, seedlings.
This initiative forms part of SANParks’ broader efforts to restore Newlands Forest and to address environmental challenges, including bark stripping.
In addition to the new plantings, monitoring has continued at previously rehabilitated sites. Notably, 150 seedlings planted last year along the Woodcutters Trail as part of a major ecological restoration initiative in Table Mountain National Park are showing strong growth and survival, an encouraging sign of the project’s success.
SANParks remains committed to the long-term sustainability of this initiative. Ongoing monitoring will continue, supported by environmental awareness and education programmes aimed at promoting conservation and the responsible use of Newlands Forest.
Through these efforts, SANParks seeks to ensure the protection and preservation of this important natural space for both current and future generations.
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Issued by: South African National Parks (SANParks)
