Invasive Alien Plant (IAP) Identification and Control Methods Training

Location:
Rooi Els to Quoin Point, Western Cape

Year:
2024

Summary:

IAPs are non-indigenous plants that have been introduced to South Africa. These plants pose a major threat to people’s livelihoods, the ecosystem and biodiversity. This IAP identification and clearing methods training aims to guide learners within the Expanded Public Works Programme on how to identify different IAPs and how best to control them.

The IAP identification and control methods training was developed and facilitated by Bruce Taplin as a one-day skills development course. The training consisted of three components: (1)Theoretical, (2) Practical, and (3) Assessment. The training included a learning guide developed to assist with the training, and which could be used after the training as a field resource. Working for Water’s recognised methods for clearing IAP’s were used as a guideline to ensure operational consistency for learners in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

This training was done in compliance with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) Alien and Invasive Species (AIS) regulations. Further, all contractors and their staff were made aware of the importance of compliance with all safety requirements as set out in the Occupational Health and Safety Act. No. 85 of 1993, and the stipulated regulations and code of practice.

The outcomes of the training were for trainees to:

• Understand what IAP’s are and recognise the threats they pose to human health, our economy, ecosystems and biodiversity
• Be able to positively identify IAP’s in their area
• Demonstrate knowledge of the most suitable clearing methods (manual, mechanised, chemical, biological and integrated control methods) for these IAPs
• Be able to evaluate the effectiveness of the control method
• Understand the importance and role of Occupational Health and Safety

This training helped trainees to learn about the importance of identifying and controlling IAPs, and equipped trainees with the necessary skills required for participation in IAP control and management work along the coast. Further, it ensured that all trainees were aware of the compliance needed to implement these IAP control plans.