Who are we

Friends of Lion’s Head is an environmental non-governmental organisation (NGO) that was established in 1996 under the Friend Scheme of the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA).

Where do we operate

Our area of volunteer responsibility consist of Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, the Glen and the interface between these natural environments and urban areas. In May 1998, the former Cape Peninsula National Park (CPNP) now Table Mountain National Park was proclaimed and our area of volunteer responsibility now falls within a National Park, managed by the South African National Parks (SANP).

Our vision

To contribute to the sustainable utilisation of Lion’s Head, Signal Hill and the Glen, especially the protection of fynbos, silver trees (Leucadendron Argentum), wild life and rock features.

Key threats

1. Erosion and trampling of vegetation
2. Urban expansion and development pressure
3. Invasive alien plant species (originally introduced by humans)
4. Over-frequent fires
5. Litter, building rubble and garden refuse
6. Security issues and illegal occupants living in the area
7. Graffiti

Objectives

• To promote Lion’s Head and Signal Hill as conservation worthy areas.
• To monitor activities in the defined area and to inform SANP as needed.
• To preserve established free access points.
• To act as a watchdog for proposed development in the defined area.
• To promote environmentally friendly behaviour of recreational users.
• To undertake educational activities - botanical walks, bird walks and historic walks.
• To remove invasive alien vegetation.
• To organise litter meets in the defined area.
• To support other NGOs involved with WESSA.
• To influence broader planning regarding the preservation and development.

Highlights

As a result of input from Friends of Lion’s Head, the City of Cape Town requested an Environmental Management Programme (EMP) to be prepared prior to the approval of building plans for the Ocean Terraces development (situated on the boundary of the TMNP). The purpose of an EMP is to mitigate potential negative environmental impacts and to optimse benefits arising from construction and related activities. An environmentally friendly precedent was thereby set for future developments on the boundary of the CPNP.

Why become a friend

• To become involved with a network of people interested in conserving our natural and cultural resources.
• To be informed regarding activities taking place on the Peninsula Mountain Chain.
• To undertake volunteer work because you care about Lion’s Head, Signal Hill or the Glen.
• To meet like minded people and have fun.

How do you become a Friend of Lion’s Head

Complete the application form, enclose R 50 cheque and mail to Friends of Lion’s Head, PO Box 50335 Waterfront 8002. For more information email Terik@mweb.co.za or phone Annabel at 021-439-7786 (a/h).

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