Shift in Groenvlei carp project

After seven years of invasive carp removal at Groenvlei Lake, the Invasive Fish Species Management NPC (IFSM) has withdrawn from the project.

- Kristy Kolberg

Residents in the area happy to receive a carp for supper. People wait in queues for their carp.

(Gift of the Givers)

The IFSM's Johnny Snyman confirmed it had terminated its operations at the lake within the Goukamma Nature Reserve, citing a collapse in collaboration with Gift of the Givers (GOTG).

The IFSM started the programme in 2018 when it targeted invasive carp in Groenvlei and Island Lake.

According to Snyman, it pioneered operational methods like the development of a bowfishing-based control approach under scientific guidance and exemption permits issued by conservation authorities. During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the project expanded to include a community feeding component, with the carp being distributed to soup kitchens and vulnerable households. This was the beginning of the IFSM's collaboration with GOTG.

CapeNature then agreed with GOTG that they proceed with the project without the IFSM due to the environmental impact on the lake caused by these invasive fish.

Over seven years, the IFSM removed more than 40t of carp from the Garden Route. More than 20t was removed by bowfishing.