Project Bankrotbos

Bankrotbos is an invasive species and does not belong in the natural landscape of South Africa. There are several theories about the spread of this plant, but it is clear that the quality of a field overrun with Bankrotbos – and thus the edible plants for the animals – suffers significantly. The Bankrotbos, meaning Bankrupt Bush in English, draws many good minerals from the soil and spreads rapidly, which causes a reduction in grazing lands for the animals – in essence bankrupting the land.

By removing the Bankrotbos, the land (i.e. the food for wildlife) will significantly improve. The removal is a very time-consuming process since all the plants need to be removed by hand. Bit by bit, the Bankrotbos will be removed until it is completely eradicated. Then it is important to keep it under control and prevent its re-encroachment from the adjacent areas. This is a daunting task, but necessary to keep the land fertile and provide sufficient food for the animals on Kwaggasdrift Conservancy and surrounding Game Farms.