Marine and Coastal Programme
Photo credit: Ursula Koekemoer
Plettenberg Bay lies within one of South Africa’s Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas (EBSAs), highlighting its rich marine biodiversity. Flanking either side of Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley are two marine protected areas, underscoring the region’s ecological significance. This vibrant coastal and marine region hosts a diverse array of ecosystems, including estuaries, sandy beaches and rocky shores, supporting rich biodiversity and multiple species. The bay is an important breeding and foraging ground for coastal birds like the white-fronted plover, marine mammals such as the humpback dolphin, and several fish and invertebrate species. However, increasing human pressures—from coastal development and tourism to marine pollution and unsustainable fishing—threaten the integrity of this ecosystem.
In response, NVT has developed a dedicated coastal and marine conservation programme to safeguard the ecological health of Plettenberg Bay through science, education, and collaboration. The component if the programme includes:
Monitor cetaceans (whales and dolphins) with special emphasis on humpback dolphins
Coastal dolphins, such as the Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) are considered apex predators and key indicators of coastal ecosystem health. Protecting their habitats safeguards not only the species but also the integrity of the broader marine environment. We are working towards a long-term monitoring plan, building local conservation capacity, and engaging the public to protect and monitor one of South Africa’s most threatened marine mammals.
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of cetaceans
It seeks to document beliefs, stories, and relationships that support cultural continuity and the ecological protection of cetaceans. We aim to identify opportunities that can support the maintenance and intergenerational transmission of TEK as well as finding avenues for more inclusive conservation decision-making processes, particularly those that affect policies shaping the future of our oceans and South Africa’s shared heritage
Monitor marine pollution and microplastics
Address threats like marine debris, microplastics, and abandoned fishing gear through continuous monitoring, strategic advocacy, and active community engagement. Systematically identify and track debris types and sources to guide targeted policies and effective public awareness campaigns.
Monitor rocky shores
Rocky shores are dynamic intertidal zones that support diverse, specialized species. These habitats are highly vulnerable to trampling, pollution, and climate change. The objective is to establishes a long-term monitoring programme, aligned with SANParks protocols, to document species diversity, abundance, and ecological change over time.
Monitor coastal fish species
To establish a baseline understanding of fish species presence, distribution, and seasonal patterns in Plettenberg Bay through the analysis of BRUV footage, contributing to future conservation planning and marine biodiversity mapping in collaboration with key stakeholders.
Protect the white-fronted plover and its coastal habitat
The white-fronted plover (Charadrius marginatus) is a flagship coastal bird species central to NVT’s conservation efforts. As a beach-nesting bird, it is especially susceptible to disturbance, habitat loss, predation, and climate pressures. The objective is to monitor breeding colonies along Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley to assess nesting success, chick survival, and population trends. It also promotes responsible beach use through education campaigns targeting communities and beachgoers, helping to protect this specie and its fragile dune and intertidal habitats.