Rewilding: Start with the plants, not the animals

PORT ALFRED, EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA - In a recent Friends of Bathurst Nature Talk in partnership with the U3A (University of the Third Age) in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape, Japie Buckle, a highly respected restoration ecologist and Managing Director of Hive Ecosystems, shed light on the concept of rewilding and its significance in restoring and reconnecting natural ecosystems. Rewilding is a progressive approach to conservation that aims to promote biodiversity and ecological resilience by restoring natural processes and reintroducing native species.

Rewilding Line-Up… Cheryl Craig from Port Alfred, Sarah Pachonick from Reading in the UK, and Joe Stapleton from Fish River eagerly joined the queue for further discussions with Japie Buckle after his presentation on Rewilding: Restoring Ecosystem Function, Not Just Introducing Animals. This enlightening talk was part of the latest U3A meeting held in the Don Powis Hall at Settlers Park Retirement Village in Port Alfred.

Buckle emphasised that rewilding is not just about reintroducing animals but also about restoring ecological processes. "Start with plants, not with animals," he said, highlighting the importance of creating the right conditions for wildlife to thrive.

He defines rewilding as a progressive approach to conservation that aims to restore and reconnect natural ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ecological resilience. Rewilding, despite the general misconception, is not only about reintroducing animals, which is often the last step in the process. Instead, it involves reducing human interventions, restoring natural processes, and improving ecological connectivity. That, Buckle explained, is why he says, it is important to start with plants rather than animals - to create a more natural state.

Jeanie Main, Madge Judge, and Mike Bandey (Vice Chairman of Port Alfred U3A) attended the talk held in the Don Powis Hall at Settlers Park Retirement Village.eanie Main, Madge Judge, and Mike Bandey (Vice Chairman of Port Alfred U3A) attended the talk held in the Don Powis Hall at Settlers Park Retirement Village.

Buckle is a highly respected restoration ecologist and conservation leader with a career spanning over four decades. Trained initially in forestry, he transitioned into the conservation sector early on and has since been deeply involved in re-establishing degraded ecosystems in the Eastern Cape. Over the years, he contributed significantly to major conservation areas - most notably, he played a vital role in the establishment and management of the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site-and earned recognition for pioneering holistic restoration practices that address not just the visible fauna but the underlying ecological processes as well.

In his talk Buckle touched on the challenges of rewilding, such as the degradation of ecosystems and the need for careful planning and understanding of local ecology.

Click the image to view the Rewilding presentation in our Video section

One of the key points discussed was the impact of human interventions on natural landscapes. Buckle pointed out that activities like channelling rivers and using heavy machinery have led to significant ecological damage. Human interventions must be limited to the bare minimum. It is far better to promote ecological connectivity, for example through wildlife corridors.

Buckle showed slides of examples of restoring degraded ecosystems and the importance of understanding the historical background of degradation. "You need to look carefully at the practical considerations, such as understanding the local climate, soil type, and ecological dynamics before starting rewilding projects," he says.

The talk concluded with a discussion on the economic potential of rewilding, particularly in terms of carbon sequestration. Buckle explained how rewilding can contribute to climate change mitigation by capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in biomass. They highlighted the potential of thicket areas in South Africa for carbon sequestration, as these areas do not burn and can store carbon for extended periods.

Buckle's contributions have been formally recognised; in late 2023, he was awarded with the Order of the Bateleur by the SA Hunters and Game Conservation Association. This honour highlights not only his extensive body of work but commitment to fostering community engagement and sustainable land management practices. They serve as a model for how conservation can interweave ecological science with practical restoration on a landscape scale, ensuring that both nature and local communities’ benefit from revived and resilient ecosystems.

Overall, the talk provided valuable insights into the concept of rewilding and its potential to restore and protect natural ecosystems. It highlighted the importance of careful planning, understanding local ecology, and reducing human interventions to achieve successful rewilding outcomes.