An Analysis of the 2017 Knysna fires disaster with emphasis on fire spread, home losses and the influence of vegetation and weather conditions: A South African case study

‘Interesting to note that firebreaks under the prevalent conditions did nothing to stop the fire/s – it jumped 700m. In my view we need more controlled burns to reduce the biomass, but that won’t happen any time soon. What we clearly do need, and is possible, is to reduce the amount of invasives in our environment – they are spreading at an exponential rate. The paper once again makes reference to stands of invasive alien plants being a significant fire risk. Would be great if GM could develop by-laws in support of NEM:BA’s Alien and Invasive Species Regulations. I am sure you have also read the latest UN report on water – 10% of countries now have a water deficit. In this context it should also be noted that invasive alien plants, if not managed, will reduce South Africa’s total annual water run-off by 56%.’       Dr Arne Witt