By Jess Verheul and Pieter Botha
On the weekend of 25–27 July 2025, 13 Members of MCSA-CT Section came together for an overnight cedar planting mission on our Breekkrants property in the Cederberg. This meet was a second time collaboration with Sustainable Ceder who brought along 2 of their team to lead and join.
Thanks to the assistance of Cederberg Park, we were able to start our hike from the Disa Pool parking area, trekking beyond Krom River into a spectacular and lesser-explored part of the property. For some participants, this was their first time exploring this section of Breekkrants, and for Denwill (from Sustainable Ceder), it was his very first night camping out – a special milestone.
Under bright winter sunshine and clear skies, the team planted 131 Clanwilliam Cedar saplings (Widdringtonia cedarbergensis), contributing to the long-term restoration of this endangered species and its unique habitat. The combination of stunning scenery, rewarding work, and heartfelt conversation made this a weekend to remember – filled with passion for conservation and camaraderie among members. We even managed to ‘get one pine out’ – thanks Chris B!
Sincere thanks to our members who joined and contributed their time, energy, and strong backs to this effort. An Extra Special thanks to Sustainable Ceder for their collaboration and technical expertise, and to Cederberg Park for supporting our access and logistics.
For those interested in participating in future conservation efforts, join the MCSA Conservation General WhatsApp group to hear about upcoming activities. To learn more about Sustainable Ceder and follow their ongoing work, visit sustainableceder.org or find them on social media.
Why Plant Clanwilliam Cedars?
The Clanwilliam Cedar (Widdringtonia cedarbergensis) is an iconic tree species unique to the Cederberg mountains and is listed as critically endangered. Over the past century, wild cedar populations have declined drastically due to overharvesting, climate stress, and competition from invasive alien plants.
By planting cedars in suitable habitat and monitoring their survival, projects like this help:
● Restore biodiversity by re-establishing native species in their historic range.
● Stabilize fragile ecosystems vulnerable to erosion and climate change.
● Raise awareness of the importance of protecting indigenous trees and their habitats.
Sustainable Ceder’s work, in collaboration with partners like MCSA-CT, ensures these iconic trees have a future in the Cederberg landscape. #Cederberg #Breekkrants #ClanwilliamCedar #RestorationInAction #MCSA #SustainableCeder
Visit:
sustainableceder.org
mcsacapetown.co.za
