Biodiversity

Pioneering Partnership

The Berrio vineyards are active members of the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative which is a pioneering partnership between the South African wine industry and the conservation sector. The goals are to minimise the further loss of threatened natural habitat, and to contribute to sustainable wine production, through the adoption of biodiversity guidelines by the South African wine industry.

Our Biodiversity highlights: Area conserved – 1305ha.

Moddervlei vineyards form part of the Nuwejaars Wetland Special Management Area. The veldtypes conserved here are: Elim ferricrete fynbos (Endangered) Overberg Sandstone fynbos (Least Threatened), Cape Inland Salt pans (Endangered) and Central Shale Renosterveld (Critically Endangered). Until a few years ago a large part of this natural area was still heavily infested by alien vegetation, but with the assistance of Land Care an area of 900 ha was cleared.

Nuwejaars Wetland Special Management Area

 In order to preserve the exceptional biodiversity of the area, the Elim wine growers, along with other farmers in the area, have incorporated their farms into the Nuwejaars Wetland Special Management Area (SMA). This SMA was established to develop a sustainable ecology in harmony with farming in the Nuwejaars Wetland ecosystem. In accordance with international standards this project aims to preserve the unique fauna and flora of the Agulhas coastal plain, some of which are listed on the Red data list of endangered species.

A largely sustainable ecology is created, ensuring the protection and enhancement of the heritage and culture of the sub region, generation benefits for all stakeholders, helping to meet social and environmental requirements and encouraging community lifestyles compatible with environmental sustainability. Spanning some 21000 hectares this project puts the Elim wine growers at the forefront of environmental sustainable viticultural practices.

Continuous Conservation

Francis Pratt is a keen conservationist and on Moddervlei and Riverside (included in the SMA) alone Francis conserves some 1305 ha of fynbos.  He is committed to regular follow-up to keep these areas free of aliens and at the same time increase the cleared area each year. All existing and future vineyard expansion will only take place on old wheat fields.

Francis is inspired by an intense passion for wines produced on this unique land. Infused with the warmth and hospitality of winemakers and their families, this exciting and dynamic wine ward, with their slogan 'Real wine, Real People' rings true in the daily life for the entire Elim community.