The Colbyn Wetland is unique seeing that it is in Pretoria, and it is protected by undeveloped land in and around it. The Daspoort Formation sandstones form the ridge to the north from where the Hartbeesspruit that originates in the wetland flow into the residential Kilner Park suburb. Roads cross the Hartbeesspruit from its origin in the Colbyn Wetland at Wilkinson Street, Bellis Street, Lynette Street, Kamferbos Street, and finally Stormvoël Road where it exits Kilner Park into the industrial area of East Lynne.

The residences, roads, servitudes, and other infrastructure were constructed decades in age, and therefore the aquatic ecosystems and biota within the Colbyn Wetland and Hartbeesspruit are getting used to these new environments that include gardens. Kilner Park is the only suburb that maintains the integrity of the Colbyn Wetland by protecting the Hartbeesspruit from which it water flows out. It is, therefore, a very ecologically sensitive area in which especially the water should be protected seeing that the biodiversity and the wetland are unique.

In Kilner Park the gardens and development provide place for a variety of birds, insects, frogs, and other animals. Many of the gardens are indigenous, and the sealed surface are limited. In the southern extension of Kilner Park that borders the wetland and introduces the Hartbeesspruit to the suburb results in limited air, water, and sound pollution. The same applies with the residential areas in the northern part with the exception of Lynette Street passing through the suburb.

In South Africa everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being, and that the environment should be protected for all people living and the future generations. The Colbyn Wetland and its tributary the Hartbeesspruit form a very important part of Pretoria’s water heritage, and should be maintained.

We should work together to maintain and improve this ecologically and environmentally sensitive habitat to ensure that this vulnerable but vital ecosystem is preserved. Social engagement and communication are required to inform the public of the existence of both the Colbyn Wetland and the Hartbeesspruit to ensure that these are preserved for our future generations.