The Pearly Beach Conservation Society was established in December 1991 under the chairmanship of Andy le Roux and from then on the Society went from strength to strength.

The aims of the Society are to promote the conservation, protection and restoration of all natural systems and resources within the Pearly Beach area, with particular attention to indigenous plant and animal life. The rapid development of the area is placing a huge burden on the remaining fynbos veld and fauna.

The Society plays an active role in promoting the importance of eco-sensitive planning and development, the establishing of water-wise indigenous gardens, the conservation of the greenbelt of natural fynbos veld and the eradication of alien species such as Rooikrans, Port Jackson and Manitoka

One of this year's priority projects was to clear the frontal dune area and adjacent greenbelt of aliens. It was a very costly and labour-intensive task but one that has many benefits for the plants, animals, residents and visitors.

Other projects include the erection and maintenance of benches at various vantage points along our coastline. There is also cooperation with other conservation bodies in our area, as well as on a national and provincial level, with regard to the recent ban on vehicles driving on the beaches. There are endeavours to make people aware of the destructive effects that driving 4x4s and quad-bikes have on the dune areas. Uncontrolled dogs also pose a threat to the breeding habits of rare coastal birds like the plover and black oystercatcher. Making people aware of the need to conserve our pristine fynbos and indigenous animal life is a mammoth task that needs constant attention and funding.

CleanMarine Project
The Society recently joined forces with the CleanMarine Project, which aims to clean and keep clean the coastline of the Overstrand area, as well as educate fishermen and beach-goers about the necessity of picking up their rubbish. Warren Rutherford is the local rep for the Clean Marine Project, and can be contacted at 028 381 9596. To read more about this project, click here.