Conservation Outcomes, in partnership with Conservation at Work, hosted a successful landowner information day in Lutzville on the West Coast. The event brought together landowners, conservation partners and local experts for a day of learning, collaboration and meaningful engagement on biodiversity conservation in the region. The day focused on the important role landowners play in shaping the future of South Africa’s natural landscapes.
The day was designed to foster a shared understanding of conservation opportunities and to build a collective vision for the region. Participants gained practical insights into conservation in action. Conservation Outcomes outlined stewardship options and the broader regional strategy, while CapeNature unpacked key aspects of environmental legislation, land-use planning and permitting requirements affecting landowners. Local botanist Steven Molteno brought the landscape to life by sharing his knowledge of the region’s unique vegetation and its ecological significance. The day concluded with an overview of ongoing support available through Conservation at Work, introduced by Christel Liebenberg.
From Knowledge to Action
A strong theme throughout the day was the importance of translating knowledge into action. Conversations explored how landowners can participate in biodiversity stewardship through a range of mechanisms, from voluntary conservancies to formally declared protected areas, each offering different levels of protection, commitment and benefit. Conservation at Work emphasised that support for landowners does not end with project timelines. Ongoing partnerships, access to information, and practical assistance remain central to ensuring that conservation efforts are both sustainable and impactful over the long term.
Perhaps the most valuable outcome was the sense of shared purpose. By bringing together landowners, conservation organisations, technical experts and government partners, the day helped build the relationships needed for meaningful, landscape-scale impact.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to thoughtful and constructive conversations. A special thank you to CapeNature, Conservation Outcomes, Steven Molteno, Christel Liebenberg (Conservation at Work), Ismat Adams, Lauren Matthews and Sarah Hulley for their valuable contributions in making the day a success.
Figure 1: A successful landowner day hosted in Lutzville, hosted by Conservation Outcomes and Conservation at Work.
Figure 2: Christel Liebenberg (Vice Chair) sharing information about the Conservation at Work platform
Figure 3: Conservation Outcomes West Coast project priority map (A WWF Leslie Hill Succulent Karoo Trust project). The initiative focuses on expanding and strengthening protected areas in the Succulent Karoo, particularly around the Olifants Estuary and Breede River Valley.
