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Nature's Valley is a vibrant community where thriving ecosystems form the natural environment. The Nature's Valley Trust has developed several wonderful outdoor classrooms and interpretive activities in each of the following ecosystems:
Forest
The Hobbit Trail through the forest has been developed together with a booklet of activities. Learners are invited to walk through the forest classroom along the Hobbit Trail where discussions and activities will take place, tackling curriculum related issues. In addition to learning about indigenous trees, there are several opportunities for bird-watching.
Fynbos
An interpretive trail route has been developed on the Fynbos Reserve in Nature's Valley where there is an active Brenton Blue butterfly reintroduction programme. A story for younger school groups (between 8 and 10 years) has been incorporated into this which deals with the tale of "Billy the Brenton Blue Butterfly", his life cycle, food plant, reproduction and problems he faces. Interpretive walks and worksheets can be adapted to older learners as well.
Phyl Martin Botanical Garden
A botanical 'Treasure Route' has been established through the botanical garden in the centre of Nature's Valley. Treasure Hunt clues must first be found by learners and then figured out in small groups. Each of the clues is linked to the plant(s) and other landmarks that are growing or are located in close proximity. Additionally, an interpretive hut has been erected in the garden to showcase natural objects and background information for learners of all ages.
Riverine and Shell Middens
The Salt and Groot River interpretive routes include an informational hike where various water and riverine habitat issues are presented and explored. Also included are the geological, palaeontological and evolutionary aspects which link to the unique aquatic invertebrate species found in the Salt River .
Marine (Estuarine, Rocky Shores and Sandy Shores ):
The Nature's Valley Trust has developed educational programmes from the Adopt-a-Beach curriculum that includes lessons on topics such as dune vegetation, pollution and waste management to name a few. Additionally, interpretive lessons on tides, tidal organisms, and related marine topics are available.
Wetland
The wetland Outdoor classroom is an interpretive trail route along a Wetland in Nature's Valley. The classroom includes topics such as water pollution, the function of wetlands and plants/animals found in Wetlands.
Underwater:
Learners will participate in an underwater learning experience at the Salt River Mouth. Learners are equipped with goggles, snorkels and water wings. The classroom includes guided exploration of the marine life found there. The Salt River mouth is relatively protected (safe) but is directly open to the influences of the sea.
All learners will receive a resource booklet that focus on tides, geology, rocks, reefs, fish life, marine ecosystems and estuaries.
All of the above Classrooms are linked to the National Curriculum with sample Lesson Plans for each of the Classrooms.
Status Report of Nature's Valley:
This document was produced following the establishment of the Nature's Valley Trust. It outlines the history, environmental aspects, issues and legislation applicable to the area. It also deals with the function of the various relevant government organizations and role of local NGO's in the area.
Welcome to Nature's Valley:
A pamphlet for visitors to introduce them to Nature's Valley and surrounds. The pamphlet focus on the uniqueness of Nature's Valley and how important it is to protect areas like these.
The Story of Nature's Valley:
This booklet deals with the history of Nature's Valley and is a must have. The booklet begins in 1652 and continues through World War I and II and continues all the way through to the year 2000.
Nature's Valley Baboons:
An educational resource for home owners and visitors with hints on how to adapt their living to avoid conflict with baboons in the area.
Doggy Guidelines:
Doggy do's and don'ts for Nature's Valley.
Bird and Tree Check lists:
A bird and tree check list of Nature's Valley for bird and tree lovers.
Tide Table:
Local tide table with fishing regulations.
Invasive Plant Booklet:
A guideline on the removal and management of invasive plants.
Indigenous Gardening:
A resource to assist people with indigenous gardening
Green Living Guidelines:
This includes a laminated map of Nature's Valley and useful and necessary contact numbers of organizations dealing with specific issues.
Conservancy Guidelines:
A useful and annually updated resource for conservancy members with information and guidelines pertaining to conservancy projects, do's and don'ts, contact lists, etc.
Nature's Valley Fynbos Reserve:
A z-fold brochure explaining the establishment of the Fynbos Reserve in Nature's Valley and the reintroduction of the Brenton Blue butterfly.
Groot River Estuary:
This brochure includes information about the functioning of the estuary and its birdlife.
The Nature's Valley Trust office (388 Lagoon Drive, Nature's Valley) has several other resources available. You are welcome to come in a browse at any time.
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