What is NEMBA?
The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004), or NEMBA, provides the framework for conservation of our biological resources. On 1 October 2014, the NEMBA Invasive Species Regulations became law.
According to these regulations, all Category 1 plants must be eradicated.
For residents of Kenton-on-Sea, Boesmansriviermond and neighbouring coastal areas, there's an additional important requirement: all Category 2 and Category 3 plants found in riparian zones or wetlands are automatically reclassified as Category 1b plants and must be eradicated (Riparian zones include areas within 32 metres of rivers, lakes, dams, wetlands or estuaries, or within the 1:100 year flood line, whichever distance is greater).
Category 1a
Compulsory Eradication
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Highly invasive – a serious environmental threat.
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Legally required – must be removed from all properties.
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No permits – possession, cultivation, or propagation is banned.
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Action needed – report and remove immediately!
Category 1b
Compulsory Control and Eradication
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Highly invasive – a serious environmental threat.
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Legally required – must be controlled on all properties.
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No propagation – permits are not issued.
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Action needed – report and implement control measures (govt. programs may assist).
Category 2
Regulated and Permit Required
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Invasive but can be useful – allowed in specific areas.
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Permit required – for possession, cultivation, sale, or movement.
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No riparian permits – banned near watercourses.
Category 3
Limited Allowance & No Propagation
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Invasive but allowed – may stay in existing gardens.
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No propagation – planting, selling, or trading is banned.
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No permit needed – for keeping existing plants.
Remember: When these plants show up near our precious waterways (that's within 32 meters of rivers, lakes, wetlands, or estuaries), Categories 2 and 3 automatically become Category 1b and must be eradicated - no exceptions!"