Honorary rangers raise whopping R100m for SANParks

Those opting to venture into SA National Parks (SANParks) territory for their holidays may be unaware of the volunteers keeping operations well-oiled.

- Jarryd Westerdale

The SANParks Honorary Rangers is a self-governing conservation body within the government entity and numbers in the range of 2,500.

It operates in 30 regions across the country and even accommodates volunteers from abroad through its 31st region operating virtually.

The body was founded in 1964 under the National Parks Board and was initially tasked with overseeing matters solely in the Kruger National Park.

It transitioned to a voluntary association in 1987 and this year celebrated 60 years of service.

Appointed by the old parks board until the transition, members are now appointed in accordance with its own constitution and governance structures.