Established by a visionary South African to pursue noble environmental goals, Fairewood Reserve remains self-supporting. A Nature Reserve? Yes, but so much more! Together with its varied countryside, resident plants, birds and wild animals, the Reserve has an outreach centre and three environmentally friendly income-generating enterprises.
The Reserve has100 hectares (250 acres) or one square kilometer of sour veld (Afrikaans: suur veldt) and is located just outside Grahamstown. The reserve offers a variety of habitats from semi-arid grassland to precipitous valley water catchments to small woods, 4 stretches of open water and an area of water meadow.
JMcK
Not surprisingly the Reserve is now home to a variety of South and Southern African wild animals together with many birds and a variety of plants. All wild animals are stocked in accordance with guidelines set out by the South African Department of Agriculture (DOA). Stocking levels in terms of available habitat are approved by the DOA. The public, schools and other organizations have access to the Reserve
by arrangement. Access to and egress from the Reserve is controlled by means of an electrified boundary fence and an electronically controlled gate.
LK
Over years the Reserve has acquired a
variety of small to medium game (excluding carnivores). We have a
variety of buck from some of the smallest Klipspringers to the stately
eland. In addition we have a small herd of zebra, some ostriches and
two North African Mountain Goats which were taken-in from another
reserve that could no longer accommodate them. There is a normal
population of small rodents and, of course, snakes such as are found in
most country areas of the Eastern Cape.
LK
The Reserve aims to bring a portion of Wild Africa to the residents of Grahamstown and the surrounding district and most importantly to young people from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. The Hobbiton Organization,which espouses the same goals and which is based in Hogsback near the town of Alice, has established a satellite centre on the reserve. each year several thousand young people are introduced outdoor life and Africa as it once was.
LK
There are presently 9 residential units in the reserve, protected by a further electrified fence and electronic gate. All units employ natural waste management and utilize artesian water. 7 of these units are periodically available for rental. See
here for details of properties available or available shortly. Occupants have the benefits of eco-friendly country living and the privilege of cohabiting with nearby wild animals, while being only a few minutes drive from Grahamstown's central business district and Rhodes University.
LK
f your pet needs a holiday then this is the answer. Fairburn Kennels offer secure and comfortable accommodation for a number of dogs and cats. Click
here for further details of rates and booking procedures.
