Rewilding is the new conservation science which holds that instead of preserving remnants of allegedly pristine areas to conserve iconic species, conservation efforts can be broadened to include repopulating, or rehabilitating areas and merging properties to revitalise ecosystems. The concept of “Rewilding” is expanded in Jepson and Blythe’s book of the same name. They recount various examples of rewilding in the USA and Europe. South Africa also gets a mention as being leaders in the field of this new approach to conservation. Of course, the Waterberg area, especially properties on the plateau, have been leaders in rewilding efforts, for various reasons, over the past few decades.
Although a number of books have recounted these efforts, it is envisaged that these rewilding projects should be showcased and the latest efforts included given the current interest internationally in this kind of conservation. This may also help to revitalise Waterberg Tourism which has been through difficult times recently, with yet more challenges from the energy crisis and failing economy.
“Rewilding the Waterberg” is expected to be published in coffee table format because the area and its inhabitants are spectacularly photogenic; the contents will feature an introduction to Waterberg areas concerned, a brief section on the features which contribute to its biodiversity, and then will focus on the contributions of various reserves possibly based on a species approach, to explain how large and small species were re-introduced, also recounting where possible, how this has revitalised the ecosystem. The book will be published by MPL Media, headed up by the experienced and award-winning publisher Erika Alberts who has produced among others publications the popular Kruger Magazine. Erika was born in the Waterberg in Bulgerivier so has an excellent knowledge of the area and the people.
We welcome contributions from the members of the community for inclusion in the book based on the species’ experiences: for example with working titles such as –Rhinos at Lapalala (your story), Lions at Welgevonden, Roan at X, Cranes at X, Sable at X, Oxpeckers at Swebeswebe, Pangolins at X, Waterfowl, Mambas at X (all species are welcome!). If you have previously written pieces for other publications, Erika, sub-editors, and I can help rework these existing pieces for you. Hi-res images will be used for the most part, unless you wish to include the odd historical image (release of the lion/ rhino etc in the year dot). If you need additional images the editors will gladly assist. Interested contributors can contact me on pete.pam@iafrica.com. Many thanks
Dr Pamela Oberem
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