KZN Crane Foundation

KwaZulu-Natal
Crane Foundation

Mission Statement

The KwaZulu-Natal Crane Foundation was founded in 1989 to promote the conservation of South Africa's three crane species and the preservation of their wetland and grassland habitats.

The Aims of the Foundation are :-

To foster and encourage the awareness of and interest in cranes and their habitats

To promote and implement crane habitat research and monitoring

To promote wise habitat management and restoration

To provide facilities for the study and enjoyment of cranes, their natural habitat and wetlands

To promote, facilitate and implement population management strategies of captive and wild cranes

A Brief History

In a joint venture with Mondi Forests the KZNCF established in 1993 the 186 hectare Hlatikulu Crane and Wetland Sanctuary in the foothills of the Natal Drakensberg midway between the Natal Parks Board's Kamberg and Giant's Castle reserves. A wetland rehabilitation programme involving the construction of three shallow dams and hundreds of damlets was undertaken with positive signs of success. Wetland vegetation is returning to the vlei and waterfowl are abundant.

In 2001 the Foundation was given a five hectare site with a large modern building in the Nottingham Road district. Our headquarters were moved to this site early in 2002 and we are presently busy with the development of the Usher Conservation Centre as a high quality interpretive centre where, school and other groups will be able to visit and receive environmental education and awareness training.

The achievements firstly at the sanctuary and later at the Usher Centre have been made possible by numerous donations, most notably from The Lady Nora Usher Memorial Trust, neighbouring farmers, Mondi Shanduka Newsprint (formerly Mondi Forests) and our members and friends.

Contacts

The KZN Crane Foundation Treasurer

P.O Box 1430, Howick, 3290

Tel: 033 330 3117

Fax: 086 516 6541

The KZN Crane Foundation Usher Conservation Centre

Tel: 033 266 6268