In the Eastern Free State, our work combines long-term research, protected area expansion, species conservation and community partnerships to secure priority grassland and wetland landscapes. Through the Ingula Partnership, we have helped develop and manage the Ingula Nature Reserve for over 20 years, conducting ecological and avifaunal monitoring and research focused on threatened species such as the White-winged Flufftail, Yellow-breasted Pipit and Southern Bald Ibis, while growing avitourism opportunities and strengthening environmental awareness in surrounding communities and schools. Through Biodiversity Stewardship, we have secured more than 24 000 hectares in the Upper Wilge Protected Environment and over 17 000 hectares in the Sneeuwberg Protected Environment, working with more than 40 landowners to improve grassland and wetland management, with further expansion underway. With our flagship species for the Eastern Free State being Southern Bald Ibis, we coordinate national breeding monitoring, establish innovative artificial breeding sites, and conduct tracking research to guide conservation action across the region and beyond.
