For the Helihack project’s first two and a half years starting in 2014, the focus was on shooting a native fungus-based biocontrol agent called Hackattack from a helicopter to eradicate non-native silky hakea shrubs (Hakea sericea).


Since 2017, the focus has shifted to felling maritime/cluster pine trees (Pinus pinaster). Helicopters carry experienced volunteer rock climbers with chainsaws to inaccessible, rugged mountain areas. Many of the team members also are involved in mountain rescue, which in South Africa is a volunteer service.


The Helihack project has implemented 16 tree-felling operations over the past four years. The work typically occurs Fridays through Sundays. Volunteers meet up with helicopter crews at a fuel-and-supply station at the base of the mountain range on Friday for their flight high into the mountains. A safety briefing takes place and the tree felling work starts. Work continues on Saturday and the teams are extracted on Sunday.


74


Jan/Feb 2022


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