PLETTENBERG BAY GAME RESERVE :: Latest NewsAt Plett Game Reserve we take our responsibility to the environment very seriously!This month we took two big steps towards reducing our carbon footprint. We are the proud owners of what we believe is the first battery electric game viewing vehicle in the world! Some time ago we imported a battery electric 3-ton bakkie from China and have now converted it into a game viewing vehicle with seats for 10 guests and a canopy. The vehicle runs off a rechargeable 72 volt battery pack (the equivalent of 12 car batteries) which is stored under the back seat and plugged into the mains at night, when demand for electricity is low, to charge. At an average speed of 25 km per hour, which is ideal for game viewing, the battery lasts for about eight hours. We are presently using it to shuttle guests from the lodge to reception as it will take some time for the game to get used to it and feel comfortable around it – this is because when it is in motion, the vehicle is completely silent! This month we also bought and released a herd of indigenous Nguni cattle onto the farm. This is an experiment which we hope will prove successful in maintaining the grass without having to burn it, as burning is not always the best option. Much of our farm consists of old pastures and it is a constant struggle to keep the grass short in order for new grass to grow through. The Ngunis will be used in areas where the grass is of a poor quality to encourage better growth. When they graze, the fine grass goes back into the soil, aerating and fertilising it. In this way we will increase our carrying capacity, reduce the fire risk and improve the quality of the soil. Cut grass will be fed to the cattle with added molasses and protein licks. |
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email: info@pbgr.co.za
