Welcome back to Part 2 of our exploration of the Richtersveld region with the Academy for Environmental Leadership (AEL). In Part 1, we saw how students could merge their learned classroom theories with real-world applications. In this edition, we’ll delve into more of the captivating experiences they had during their adventure through nature’s classroom.
Discovering Fynbos and How Weather Affects Plants
The first stop on this part of the journey took them to Naries Farm, where students enjoyed a guided walk to the remnant Fynbos vegetation found on the farm. This visit provided some insight into how climatic conditions influence the distribution of different plant species.
Understanding the Impact of Disturbance Events on Plants at Goegab Nature Reserve
During their visit to the Goegab Nature Reserve the students put on their hiking boots and set off on a 10km nature trail to learn more about the long-term effects that unsustainable farming practices have on vegetation in this arid landscape, and also how disturbance events impacts the richness, abundance and distribution of plant species in this area.
Using Wind for a Cleaner Future: Kangnas Wind Farm
Next on the itinerary was a visit to the Kangnas Wind Farm. Here students learned about the importance of wind farms as part of the solution to global climate change, and also the legal aspects that need to be adhered to in order to stay operational and is needed to contribute to conservation.
Digging into Mining’s Effects: Black Mountain Mine
A visit to the Black Mountain Mine rehabilitation sites led the students to better understand what happens after mining operations have ceased, what rehabilitation efforts these mining companies have in place and how they contribute to conservation.
Cultivating in Dry Lands: Klein Pella Farm
The last stop on this tour through the Richtersveld was at the Klein Pella Farm where students gained further insight into farming practises in a semi-arid environment situated along a perennial river, specifically date farming. They learned all about suitable cultivar selection and precision fertilisation, and discovered some of the unique challenges faced by date farmers in these environments.
Learning Beyond the Classroom: Reflecting on the Tour
Despite some long drives, a few chilly nights and the occasional drizzle, Daniel Venter, Technical Assistant at the AEL, echoed the sentiment that these small inconveniences in no way detracted from the invaluable knowledge gained from this tour. The opportunity to witness theory in action, visit unique organizations, and bear witness to the breathtaking Namaqualand flowers in full bloom were unrivalled experiences.
The Richtersveld Academic Tour wasn’t just a field trip, but rather an educational journey that connected classroom theory with real-life situations. The students explored from the effects of mining activities to sustainable farming practises in arid environments, and got to witness the resilience and beauty of nature, taking away with them a deeper understanding and appreciation for these amazing landscapes and diverse environment which is the Richtersveld.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible expedition through the Richtersveld region. If you’re interested in applying to the AEL, you can download the application form here.