Guiding principles for reserve management - NCC Environmental ...

The following mammal species included in the IUCN Red Data List of Threatened Species can be foundat the WNR: Leopard (Near Threatened).The following bird species included in the IUCN Red Data List of Threatened Species are known to occurin the WNR: Secretary Bird (Vulnerable).A complete database detailing the diversity of birds, reptiles and amphibian species found in the WNR iscurrently not available.2.4.8 Heritage ResourcesAncestral graves, approximately 150 years old, are present within the reserve, as well as old initiationschool sites.Locals use water obtained from the fountains in the area as part of their rituals and ceremonies. Thisoccurs on request, and a permit is issued for collection.Detailed information on the heritage resources of the WNR is, however, not available.2.4.9 Reserve InfrastructureThe current condition of the fencing along the boundary of the reserve is fair to good, with sections ofthe fence leaning or damaged as a result of trespassing by locals and domestic animals entering thereserve. A 10 km section of the fence, located next to the Glen Alpine dam, is currently only 1.6 m highand allows game to escape from the reserve and livestock to occasionally enter the reserve.There is a total of eight entrance points into the reserve.The WNR is divided into a larger northern and smaller southern section (the latter which is also knownas the Roan Camp) by a gravel road bisecting the area. A gravel road network stretches throughout thereserve and is only used by management. The roads of the reserve are currently generally in a poorcondition, with some roads having been closed as a result of gully erosion. It is estimated that a total ofapproximately 60 km of the reserve’s roads are currently inaccessible.Signage within the reserve is quite old.The basic office is in a moderate to poor condition, and in need of renovation.Covered parking bays for cars are in a reasonable condition.The staff accommodation facilities of the WNR consist of the following:A manager’s house comprising three rooms and a bathroom. This structure relies of solarpower for electricity and is currently in a fair condition.A brick house, comprising eight single rooms, provides accommodation to staff. This structurealso contains a bathroom and a kitchen. This structure is currently in a fair condition, but is notsupplied with electricity.Three park homes have recently been added in order to provide further accommodation forstaff. Electricity for each of these units is currently being installed by the Department of PublicWorks.No visitors’ accommodation is currently available at the WNR.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 20