Freshwater Research Centre is an NPO in Cape Town whose primary focus is aquatic research, conservation, training and education. Through hard work and collaboration with like-minded organisations, they strive to promote freshwater ecosystems and boost biodiversity. With their experienced directors, researchers and research associates, FRC have been able to make considerable impacts on freshwater ecosystems. A good example of this is the Biedouw River Restoration.
The Biedouw River Restoration is a collaborative effort between FRC, CapeNature and the Fynbos Fish Trust with the goal of reducing the number of alien fish in the river and allowing the endemic fish to return. This restoration began with clearing out poplars, reeds and blue gums to allow endemic fish access to more of the river. They had a goal of clearing 9 km of river, but they ran into an issue. They identified a 2.5 km of river that would’ve been impossible to clear by hand. That’s when they looked into conducting a controlled burn. After they received the go-ahead, the controlled burn took place and after 7 hours, it was deemed a success.
Although the project is still in the works, we’re grateful for FRC and what they’ve done for our freshwater ecosystems and it’s our pleasure to support them. Here’s what Jeremy Shelton, a researcher from FRC, has to say about the addition of a Contour Canopy and Load Bars to his vehicle.
“Conserving our Fynbos Fish means working in some of the most rugged and remote corners of the Cape. Whether we’re transporting field teams, camping gear, scientific instruments or buckets of endangered fish, what’s critical is that we can rely 100% on our equipment. And our Alu-Cab Contour Canopy does not disappoint. This thing feels and looks bullet-proof. It’s spacious enough to load in all our field gear, and the Load Bars are perfect for strapping on our inflatable boat. I love the side windows for easy gear access, and the roof lights for sorting samples after dark. What’s great is that I never have to worry about whether the canopy is up to the task, and can rather just focus on getting the job done.”
Click the link below to learn more about the Freshwater Research Centre and how they’re helping our aquatic ecosystems:
Freshwater Research Centre – Specialists in Aquatic Research and Training