ABOUT US
Zaagkuilsdrift Conservation Foundation NPC is dedicated to protecting South Africa's wetlands, waterbirds an wildlife through science, conservation breeding, habitat restoration an community partnerships.
OUR STORY
The Zaagkuilsdrift Conservation Foundation was established to safeguard South Africa's wetlands, wildlife and biodiversity through practical conservation, scientific research and long-term environmental stewardship.
Our Foundation was born from a deep passion for the natural world and a belief that meaningful conservation is achieved through knowledge, collaboration and sustained action. Every initiative we undertake is guided by science, driven by measurable outcomes and focused on creating lasting benefits for both nature and the communities that depend upon it.
At the heart of our work lies the internationally significant Kgomo-Kgomo Floodplain—one of South Africa's most important wetland ecosystems. In recognition of Zaagkuilsdrift's long-standing commitment to conservation, the Bakgatla ba Mosetlha Traditional Council entrusted us with the custodianship of this remarkable landscape, affirming our responsibility to protect and manage it for future generations. This custodianship is both a privilege and a responsibility that shapes everything we do.
The Foundation builds upon decades of conservation experience led by Alexander Howard Hattingh, an internationally recognised conservation breeder, Chairman of the Wildfowl and Gamebird Association of Africa, African Director of the Numididae Conservation Project and a long-standing advocate for species conservation. Under his leadership, Zaagkuilsdrift has become a respected centre for conservation breeding, habitat management and environmental education, demonstrating how responsible aviculture can contribute meaningfully to the conservation of threatened species.
Today, the Foundation provides a permanent platform through which conservation initiatives can grow and flourish. Our work encompasses wetland restoration, habitat management, conservation breeding, species recovery, scientific research, environmental education and community outreach. We work alongside researchers, conservation organisations, landowners, volunteers and local communities because lasting conservation can only be achieved through strong partnerships.
Among our first flagship initiatives is the Mike Bolhuis Flamingo Project, entrusted to us to secure its long-term future under dedicated conservation governance. It represents the beginning of a broader vision to develop and support projects that deliver measurable conservation outcomes while inspiring a greater appreciation for South Africa's extraordinary natural heritage.
Our Foundation was born from a deep passion for the natural world and a belief that meaningful conservation is achieved through knowledge, collaboration and sustained action. Every initiative we undertake is guided by science, driven by measurable outcomes and focused on creating lasting benefits for both nature and the communities that depend upon it.
At the heart of our work lies the internationally significant Kgomo-Kgomo Floodplain—one of South Africa's most important wetland ecosystems. In recognition of Zaagkuilsdrift's long-standing commitment to conservation, the Bakgatla ba Mosetlha Traditional Council entrusted us with the custodianship of this remarkable landscape, affirming our responsibility to protect and manage it for future generations. This custodianship is both a privilege and a responsibility that shapes everything we do.
The Foundation builds upon decades of conservation experience led by Alexander Howard Hattingh, an internationally recognised conservation breeder, Chairman of the Wildfowl and Gamebird Association of Africa, African Director of the Numididae Conservation Project and a long-standing advocate for species conservation. Under his leadership, Zaagkuilsdrift has become a respected centre for conservation breeding, habitat management and environmental education, demonstrating how responsible aviculture can contribute meaningfully to the conservation of threatened species.
Today, the Foundation provides a permanent platform through which conservation initiatives can grow and flourish. Our work encompasses wetland restoration, habitat management, conservation breeding, species recovery, scientific research, environmental education and community outreach. We work alongside researchers, conservation organisations, landowners, volunteers and local communities because lasting conservation can only be achieved through strong partnerships.
Among our first flagship initiatives is the Mike Bolhuis Flamingo Project, entrusted to us to secure its long-term future under dedicated conservation governance. It represents the beginning of a broader vision to develop and support projects that deliver measurable conservation outcomes while inspiring a greater appreciation for South Africa's extraordinary natural heritage.
OUR VISION
To see South Africa’s wetlands, wildlife and biodiversity flourish within healthy, resilient ecosystems where nature and people thrive together.
We envision a future where wetlands and natural habitats are restored, threatened species are protected and recovering, and science guides meaningful conservation action. We believe lasting conservation is built through responsible stewardship, collaboration and communities that value and actively protect the natural world.
Through practical action, innovation and meaningful partnerships, we strive to leave a lasting conservation legacy for generations to come.
We envision a future where wetlands and natural habitats are restored, threatened species are protected and recovering, and science guides meaningful conservation action. We believe lasting conservation is built through responsible stewardship, collaboration and communities that value and actively protect the natural world.
Through practical action, innovation and meaningful partnerships, we strive to leave a lasting conservation legacy for generations to come.
OUR MISSION
The Zaagkuilsdrift Conservation Foundation exists to transform conservation ambition into measurable action.
We protect and restore wetlands and natural habitats, advance species conservation through conservation breeding, specialist care and recovery programmes, support scientific research and monitoring, respond to wildlife conservation needs, and deliver environmental education that inspires lasting stewardship of the natural world.
Working alongside researchers, conservation organisations, landowners, government, specialists, volunteers and local communities, we develop practical, science-led conservation programmes that address real challenges on the ground.
Every project we undertake is guided by scientific integrity, responsible stewardship and a commitment to achieving measurable, long-term outcomes for wildlife, ecosystems and the people who share these landscapes.
We protect and restore wetlands and natural habitats, advance species conservation through conservation breeding, specialist care and recovery programmes, support scientific research and monitoring, respond to wildlife conservation needs, and deliver environmental education that inspires lasting stewardship of the natural world.
Working alongside researchers, conservation organisations, landowners, government, specialists, volunteers and local communities, we develop practical, science-led conservation programmes that address real challenges on the ground.
Every project we undertake is guided by scientific integrity, responsible stewardship and a commitment to achieving measurable, long-term outcomes for wildlife, ecosystems and the people who share these landscapes.
OUR VALUES
INTEGRITY
We act with honesty, transparency and accountability.
SCIENCE
We base decisions on research, monitoring and evidence.
STEWARDSHIP
We protect habitats and species for current and future generations.
COLLABORATION
We believe in the power of partnerships and community involvement.
EDUCATION
We inspire awareness and empower people to care for nature.
COMPASSION
We respect all life and work to reduce suffering.
OUR PEOPLE
Our dedicated team combines field expertise, scientific knowledge and a shared love for nature. Together with our partners and supporters, we are creating lasting conservation outcomes.
PASSIONATE
About conservation
EXPERIENCED
In the field and in research
COMMITTED
To making a difference
TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Your support helps us protect wetlands, save species and build a sustainable future for wildlife and communities.
