Ecological restoration is a long-term process, beset by uncertainties and challenges. For this reason, monitoring is not just a tick-box exercise, but a key tool used by restoration practitioners to:

🎯 set realistic and appropriate restoration targets
📈 track progress towards these
🗺 and adapt practices based on evidence of what works, and what doesn't.

While remote sensing capabilities are improving, the most reliable form of monitoring is still people on the ground, which is the Cape Parrot Project (CPP) is excited to welcome their very first pair of Eco-Rangers to their ranks this year. Siya Sonjani and Manica Sokoman, who were previously part of their general staff team, worked on the implementation phase of projects within the Mistbelt Forest Restoration Programme. With this experience under their belts, they stepped into Eco-Ranger roles this year, with monitoring restoration sites as one of their key responsibilities.

With a focus on the Mistbelt Forest Restoration Programme in partnership with Greenpop, CPP has been diligently working towards restoring the habitat of the endangered Cape Parrot. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts, the CPP has not only aimed to replenish forest landscapes but also to safeguard the future of these magnificent birds.

Baseline monitoring (i.e. pre-planting monitoring) at the FFL1E site has served as the perfect opportunity to work as a team to refine our monitoring protocol - ensuring that methods outlined are appropriate; and provide required training - to ensure that methods developed and agreed upon are accurately and consistently applied. Siya and Manica are now well-equipped to independently collect monitoring data - a huge step forward in CPP's restoration programme.

A big shoutout to the Cape Parrot Project, for their incredible work. Together, we're making strides towards a greener future! 💚