The Drakensberg Crane Conservation Project’s priority community engagement work is focused on conservation agriculture and capacity building, public awareness and education, and health and environment. International Crane Foundation project communities, such as KwaMkhize, are predominantly unemployed and surviving mainly on social grants and agricultural products. Even though agriculture is seen as key in addressing food security in communities along the Drakensberg, the extent of alien plant infestation, soil erosion, overgrazing and poor soil quality continue to be impediments to enhancing food security in the area. To find a lasting solution to the issue, the project facilitated training on permaculture gardening. Permaculture is the development of agricultural ecosystems intended to be sustainable and self-sufficient. Much like no-till farming, permaculture protects the soil structure of the ground and allows the carbon sequestration capability to remain intact, benefitting the environment.

More information at https://savingcranes.org/what-does-permaculture-have-to-do-with-cranes/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=november_contact_call