Dear All
The next Know Your Bay will take place Tuesday 28 October, when Mr Reinier van der Kuip will talk about “The Power of Mapping – focusing on alien invasives”. In his presentation, Mr van der Kuip will show how mapping serves as one of the most effective tools for communicating valuable environmental information that often gets lost in translation. Through the lens of the Baakens Valley project, he’ll look at how spatial data has been used to investigate the spread and threat of alien invasive plants, identify indigenous hotspots, and record the progress of ongoing restoration efforts. He’ll show how maps have been used to attract volunteers, strengthen collaborations between municipal departments and non-profit organisations, and enable targeted, data-driven approaches to invasive species management. Finally, he will highlight a range of mapping tools and platforms available for environmental and community use from open-source applications like QGIS and iNaturalist, to GPS-based reporting systems, showcasing how accessible technology can transform conservation work and amplify collective impact.
Reinier van der Kuip is an engineering geologist and geoenvironmental consultant and founder of the Green Baakens Initiative, a community-driven project focused on restoring and protecting the Baakens Valley ecosystem. With a background in geoscience and ecological mapping, he combines fieldwork, data analysis, and community engagement to address the threats posed by invasive species. His work emphasises the power of spatial mapping, collaboration, and education in driving sustainable environmental action across Nelson Mandela Bay.
The event is free and open to all. From 17:30 for 18:00 until 19:00 at Bayworld.
Kind regards
Lorien Pichegru
