Environmental Significance

The Vredefort Dome’s unique geological formations have fostered a diverse ecosystem. The site’s rich biodiversity includes various endemic plant species and serves as a habitat for numerous wildlife species. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintain this delicate balance and protect against threats such as property development and mining.

Flora & Fauna

• Flora: The area boasts a variety of indigenous plant species adapted to the unique soil and climatic conditions resulting from the impact event. Notable among them is the world’s largest Olive Wood Tree forest, a botanical treasure.
• Fauna: Home to a range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, some of which are endemic to the region. Look out for the elusive Smith’s Red Rock Rabbit along rocky trails.
• Birding Haven: With over 450 bird species, including Goliath Herons and White-backed Night-Herons, the Dome is a paradise for birdwatchers, thanks to its mix of grasslands, riverine woodlands, and cliffs.

Conservation Initiatives

• Habitat Restoration: Rehabilitating areas affected by human activity to their natural state.
• Invasive plant species: Working with Landcare, and organisation specialising in invasive species, to eradicate invasive plants and restore the natural habitat.
• Anti-Poaching Measures: Working with the Wildlife Trust to implementing strategies to protect local wildlife from illegal activities.
• Sustainable Tourism: Promoting eco-friendly tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
• Game reintroduction and balancing game hunting and conservation:Many landowners in the Dome Bergland have turned their farms into game reserves, reintroducing species like eland, rhino’s and black wildebeest, reviving the area’s prehistoric wildness.The Dome Conservancy also aligned with the SA Hunters and Game Conservation Association, to assist game farmers with practicing responsible hunting.

Research & Reports

• Geological Studies: Ongoing research into the impact structure’s formation and its global implications.
• Biodiversity Assessments: Regular surveys documenting the variety of species present and their conservation statuses. In this regard, the Dome Conservancy has launched and ambitious project in July 2024 to record and document multidisciplinary aspects in an integrated manner of the biodiversity of the Vredefort Dome in one document. The purpose of this document and study would then be to serve as a framework, informative tool and ongoing inventory of the biodiversity of the Vredefort Dome. It will also allow research specialists, environmental managers and citizen scientists to work together in an integrative manner. A study into the baboon population in the Dome, in conjunction with the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs, is also ongoing.

World Heritage Status

In 2005, UNESCO designated the Vredefort Dome as a World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional geological value. This status underscores the importance of preserving the site for future generations and promotes international cooperation in its conservation.

Although the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site is not yet proclaimed in terms of South African Legislation, The Dome Conservancy is working with the National Department of Environmental Affairs and other landowner organisations in the Dome, to ensure that the proclamation will eventually take place.