Pine Busters

Pine Busters Pine Busters a group of volunteers, dedicate our time to eradicating pine trees in the berg.

So why are pine trees, specifically Pinus Patula, devastating to the Drakensberg?

🌲 because of their growth and pine needles, hundreds of grass species in the Drakensberg will be wiped out
🌲 the animal species that feed off these grasses will therefore be wiped out, we are talking thousands of species
🌲 pines are extremely thirsty trees, therefore, draining from our water sources and the Drakensb

erg is the water factory for South Africa
🌲 they are highly flammable causing runaway fires to worsen if they pass through pines, yet they do not die themselves in a fire
🌲 they are native to Mexico and can withstand long periods of temperatures as low as -10°C, hence doing well in the berg

Let's eradicate these trees before it is too late!

From 13–16 June, our team tackled the Thutumi Valley in Didima, enjoying exceptional winter weather and some spectacular...
17/06/2026

From 13–16 June, our team tackled the Thutumi Valley in Didima, enjoying exceptional winter weather and some spectacular mountain scenery along the way.

Richard, Fred, Rod, Linda, Morgan, and a warm welcome to newcomers Megan and Nathan, cleared over 330 invasive pine trees during the weekend. Most were smaller trees clustered around old ring-barked pines, but there were some larger challenges too, including a 60cm seed-spreading tree that Rod successfully brought down.

Working on steep slopes and deep in the valley made for tough going, but the effort was well worth it. Alongside the conservation work, there was time for braais, sundowners, star-filled skies, and great conversation around the fire.

A special thank you to everyone who gave their time and energy to help protect our beautiful Berg. Every tree removed makes a difference. 💚

🌱🇿🇦 Happy Youth Day!Today we celebrate the young people who are shaping the future of South Africa and helping to protec...
16/06/2026

🌱🇿🇦 Happy Youth Day!

Today we celebrate the young people who are shaping the future of South Africa and helping to protect our natural heritage.

We're inspired by the next generation of conservationists, hikers, and mountain lovers working to keep the Berg healthy for years to come.

Here's to our future mountain guardians! ⛰️💚

🌲🪓 We’re heading back to Cathedral Peak for a conservation weekend in the Thutumi area.📅 13–16 June📍 Cathedral Peak – Th...
10/06/2026

🌲🪓 We’re heading back to Cathedral Peak for a conservation weekend in the Thutumi area.

📅 13–16 June
📍 Cathedral Peak – Thutumi Area
✉ Drop us a DM if you are keen to join

Whether you’re a regular Pine Buster or joining for the first time, we’d love to have you on the team. Come make a difference while enjoying one of the fresh mountain air.

A few of the Pine Busters team attended the Ezemvelo Honorary Officers Provincial Meeting last Saturday, at the beautifu...
10/06/2026

A few of the Pine Busters team attended the Ezemvelo Honorary Officers Provincial Meeting last Saturday, at the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park.

It was great to catch up with fellow conservation-minded people, see some of the fantastic improvements that have been made in the park, and hear from Sihle Mkhize, CEO of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The meeting was led by Gawie van Dyk, the Provincial Coordinator for the Honorary Officers.

There is some truly inspiring work happening, both among the Honorary Officers and within Ezemvelo itself. It's encouraging to see so many people passionate about protecting and preserving our incredible natural spaces.

🌲🔥 Did You Know?Invasive Pinus patula trees can make fires in the Berg hotter and more destructive.Unlike natural grassl...
03/06/2026

🌲🔥 Did You Know?

Invasive Pinus patula trees can make fires in the Berg hotter and more destructive.

Unlike natural grassland fires, dense pine stands create a build-up of needles, branches, and woody material that acts as extra fuel. This can lead to more intense fires that damage indigenous vegetation and mountain ecosystems.

By removing invasive pines, Pine Busters helps restore the natural balance of the Drakensberg and reduce the risk of destructive wildfires.

Every pine removed helps protect the Berg. ⛰️

🌲💡 Did You Know? 💡🌲Did you know that Pinus patula can produce thousands of seeds over its lifetime?That’s what makes it ...
27/05/2026

🌲💡 Did You Know? 💡🌲

Did you know that Pinus patula can produce thousands of seeds over its lifetime?
That’s what makes it such a powerful invader in the Drakensberg. Once established, it spreads rapidly, crowding out indigenous grasslands and disrupting the natural ecosystem. 🌿

It’s not just one tree; it’s the next generation waiting to take over.

That’s why removing these invasive pines is so important in protecting the Berg for the future. 💚

Keen to join the mission? DM us.

A Big Shout Out to Ezemvelo Honorary Officers Everywhere!We want to take a moment to recognise the incredible work of Ez...
20/05/2026

A Big Shout Out to Ezemvelo Honorary Officers Everywhere!

We want to take a moment to recognise the incredible work of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Honorary Officers.

These dedicated individuals play a vital role in conservation, giving their time, energy, and passion to protect our natural spaces and wildlife. 🌍💚

We see the work you do, and we admire your commitment to preserving the places we all love. Thank you for being such an important part of conservation. 🙌

We are proud to be a part of this epic team, and we appreciate you!

🌲💪 Join the Mission with Pine Busters! 💪🌲We’re on a mission to protect our landscapes, restore balance, and make a real ...
13/05/2026

🌲💪 Join the Mission with Pine Busters! 💪🌲

We’re on a mission to protect our landscapes, restore balance, and make a real impact, and we can’t do it alone. Whether you’re part of the crew, a supporter, or a cheerleader from the sidelines, every effort counts.

Join the mission and be part of the change. 🌱

💬DM us for more details.

🌲💚 This Mother’s Day, we celebrate all mothers, the ones who nurture families, and in a way, the earth itself 🌍💐Just as ...
10/05/2026

🌲💚 This Mother’s Day, we celebrate all mothers, the ones who nurture families, and in a way, the earth itself 🌍💐

Just as mothers care for what they love, we care for the Berg, working quietly, consistently, and with heart to restore balance to nature.

Wishing all moms a beautiful, peaceful Mother’s Day 💚

🌱🌄 Indigenous vs Invasive – Why It Matters in the BergIn the Drakensberg, our natural grasslands are some of the most im...
06/05/2026

🌱🌄 Indigenous vs Invasive – Why It Matters in the Berg

In the Drakensberg, our natural grasslands are some of the most important and unique ecosystems we have, but they’re under threat.

Pinus patula, originally from Mexico, is highly invasive in this region. It spreads aggressively, crowding out indigenous plants, reducing biodiversity, and disrupting the natural balance of the Berg.

When we remove invasive pines, something incredible happens… 🌿
The land begins to recover. Indigenous grasses and plants return, water systems improve, and the ecosystem slowly restores itself.

As Pine Busters, we’re committed to protecting these landscapes, one tree at a time. 💚

Keen to get involved or support the cause, drop us a DM.

Address

Hilton
3245

Telephone

+27823346122

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