Useful Information

Rescue information:  Wildlife rescue hub 

Toll Free: 0800 205 005
WhatsApp: 060 998 7073

Phone: 079 643 9556

Conservation: Connecting Projects and Conservancies

Conservation is a collaborative effort, success depends on collective action and shared responsibility. Protecting our environment and wildlife requires partnerships between volunteers, other conservancies, our community, governmental departments and other organizations. By pooling knowledge, resources, and creativity, we can tackle the challenges facing our ecosystems more effectively and ensure a sustainable future. Together, we have the power to make a lasting impact.


We work closely with the Sedgefield Island Conservancy, sharing information and resources.
We have also collaborated with them on environmental cleanups.  
For more information, visit their site:  https://sedgefieldislandconservancy.co.za/


Revive Sedgefield are a group of volunteers that work towards the upliftment of Sedgefield.  
Visit them on Facebook here


The Strandloper Project: Citizen Science in Action

Based on the Garden Route and led by marine biologist Mark Dixon, the Strandloper Project is a pioneering initiative dedicated to marine conservation through citizen science. This project focuses on addressing the impacts of marine pollution, particularly ghost fishing gear and plastic waste, along South Africa's coastline.  Through coastal research expeditions, community involvement, and innovative data collection methods, the Strandloper Project raises awareness and fosters sustainable practices to protect our oceans.  
Learn more about their impactful work at www.strandloperproject.org.
They have a great section on Nudibranchs, with a guide to identifying the intertidal species in the Garden Route https://www.strandloperproject.org/nudibranchs.html.  


On their website, iNaturalist describe themselves as a lot of different things, but at its core, it is an online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature.

It's also a crowdsourced species identification system and an organism occurrence recording tool. You can use it to record your own observations, get help with identifications, collaborate with others to collect this kind of information for a common purpose, or access the observational data collected by iNaturalist users.

If you download their app they have a very cool function which allows you take a picture of a living thing and they will help you identify it.   

We have our own space on the iNaturalist platform, here


Licensing Requirements for Fishing and Watercraft

To ensure the safety of our waterways and the sustainability of marine life, it is essential to comply with South Africa's licensing regulations for fishing and watercraft. Whether you're casting a line or enjoying the water on a paddleboard, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Fishing Licenses:

    • A valid fishing permit is required for all recreational fishing activities.
    • Permits can be obtained online or at designated post offices.
      • You can obtain online fishing licenses through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment's (DFFE) official platform. The system allows you to apply for recreational fishing permits, select the type of permit you need, process payments, and download your permit conveniently. For more information click here or you can access the platform here.
    • Ensure you are familiar with the specific regulations for the species you are targeting, as well as seasonal restrictions.

  2. Boat Licenses:

    • Any motorized vessel, including boats with engines larger than 15hp, must have a skipper's license.
    • The vessel must also be registered and have a valid safety certificate issued by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA).

  3. Non-Motorized Watercraft:

    • While paddleboards (SUPs) and kayaks do not require a skipper's license, users should adhere to safety guidelines and ensure they are equipped with appropriate safety gear.
    • In our area, permits are required for launching or using non-motorized watercraft, this includes SUP boards, canoes and kayaks.

  4. Why Licensing Matters:

    • Licensing helps protect marine ecosystems by regulating fishing practices and preventing overfishing.
    • It ensures that watercraft operators are trained and equipped to navigate safely, reducing the risk of accidents.

By following these guidelines, we can all contribute to the preservation of our natural resources while enjoying South Africa's beautiful waterways responsibly.

Useful contact numbers

SAPS Sedgefield                         044 302 6702 or 044 302 6703
SAPS Knysna                             044 302 6608 or 044 302 6609
Community Orientated Police             074 506 7242
Sedgefield Fire Department              044 349 2900
NSRI                                    082 990 5955
Life Knysna Private Hospital            044 302 5200
ER 24                                   084 124
Provincial Ambulance Service            10177 or 112
Dr Venter                               044 343 1278
Dr Stander/Van Der Westhuizen           044 343 1943
Sedgefield Muncipality                  044 302 6500
Disaster Management                     044 805 5071
Poison Centre                           086 155 5777
SANPARKS                                044 343 2331
Cape Nature                             087 087 3037 or 087 087 9262
Department of Forestry and Fisheries    044 302 6900
SAM (Sedgefield Animal Matters)         079 526 5064 or 082 420 4825

The Sedgefield Mosaic Route


Sedgefield is a place where art and community blend beautifully. Wander through our streets and public spaces adorned with stunning handcrafted mosaics, each telling a unique story of our town’s history, culture, and creativity. 

Community Guidelines and Local Bylaws

Whether it's respecting wildlife, maintaining shared spaces or ensuring responsible interactions within the community, local bylaws help create a safe and harmonious environment for everyone.  These guidelines cover everything from environmental protection to day-to-day community living.  

If you need more details, you can find the official Knysna Municipality's bylaws here

Recycling Made Easy

Our municipality collects recyclables—paper, glass, plastic, and aluminum—as part of the regular garbage collection service. Simply separate your recyclables into a clear plastic bag, available from municipal offices, and place it out on collection day.

For broken appliances and electronic waste, get in touch with Dieter (084 800 1243) or Celia (063 261 6701). They offer convenient collection and may even purchase unwanted goods you’re ready to part with. They’re wonderfully resourceful—if they can’t help directly, they’ll likely connect you with someone who can.

 




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