African Wildlife & Environment Issue 81

FAUNA, FLORA & WILDLIFE

There are other organisations that represent more of a game ranching type of concept however, with PARC Reserves they ensure the quality of their membership through strict criteria, recognising the importance of wild rhino populations in the private sector. In March 2022, the Minister of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), Ms Barbara Creecy, sent a letter stating, “DFFE has duly noted with appreciation the establishment of PARC Reserves. Kindly be informed that your organisation is now recognised as a relevant, key, and valuable stakeholder and will be added to the departmental database of rhino stakeholders. Accordingly, you will be included in all future engagements aimed at discussing rhino management and conservation in South Africa.The efforts made by your organisation in contributing to the management and conservation of the rhino

species in South Africa are appreciated.” This certainly is a significant milestone, and we hope that involvement at this high level will help to find sustainable solutions for the rhino species in South Africa. The logo that has been developed for PARC Reserves, encompasses a Black and a White

Rhino, within the outline of a rhino footprint. This makes me think that we will walk the path together, to ensure a

sustainable future for both incredible pachyderms. The definition that PARC Reserves has given for eco-tourism and free-ranging rhino helps to define where member reserves fit into the broader conservation landscape of the country:

37 | African Wildlife & Environment | Issue 81 (2022)