NEWS & VIEWS • DECEMBER 2025 1 LINKING OUR MEMBERS TO MARKETS NCT FORESTRY AGRICULTURAL CO-OPERATIVE LIMITED In this issue: NUMBER 116 • MARCH 2026 • Rand Dollar Exchange effects • Harassment and Anti-discrimination • Low density in our wood chips
2 Few variables shape the fortunes of South African export industries as powerfully — or as unpredictably — as the exchange rate. For NCT and its growers, the strength or weakness of the South African rand (ZAR) against the US dollar (USD) influences member income, competitiveness, mill performance, shipping costs, and the sustainability of our value-chain. The Exchange Rate and its real impact on NCT From the GENERAL MANAGER Danny Knoesen The Rand as our Revenue Multiplier The recent combination of a strong rand and a weaker US dollar show a combining of global and domestic forces that have tilted currency dynamics in the Rand’s favour. First, US dollar softness has emerged as investors grow cautious about US trade policy and reduced risk appetite, leading to sustained downward pressure on the greenback. Trump’s approach has made markets nervous. Second, improving domestic conditions in South Africa, including fiscal consolidation, a primary budget surplus, and credit-rating stabilisation or upgrades, have bolstered investor confidence and supported rand strength through late 2025 and early 2026. This has been supported by strong commodity prices, especially gold, silver and platinum. Third, shifting global monetary conditions—including expectations of US Federal Reserve rate cuts and South Africa’s clearer inflation path—have narrowed the interest-rate gap between the two countries, encouraging capital inflows into rand-denominated assets and reinforcing ZAR appreciation. Together, these three drivers explain why USD/ZAR has recently traded near the R15.90–R16.00 range, despite South Africa’s structural constraints, creating a currency environment that is simultaneously externally favourable yet operationally challenging for exporters. Exchange-rate movements directly influence the rand value of every vessel we ship — regardless of whether USD prices rise, fall, or remain stable. The impact on revenue on both wattle and gum is very severe. This revenue gap is not caused by falling USD prices, weak demand, logistics failures, or poor performance, not because of poor marketing, not because quality changed, but simply because the rand strengthened. Global forces are driving exchange-rate valotility What this means for NCT’s export business Every tonne of woodchips we sell internationally is priced in US dollars. That dollar value must then be converted back into rands — and this is where the exchange rate becomes critical. When the rand is stronger, for example around R15.90/USD, exporters receive fewer rands per dollar earned. When the rand is weaker, such as above R18/USD in earlier periods, exporters receive significantly more rands for the same dollar price. A shift of even 50 cents can change the outcome of an export cycle; a shift of one rand can translate into tens of millions of rands gained — or lost.
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 3 Exchange-rate forecasts for 2026 indicate volatility but a likely stabilisation around R16.00–R16.50/ USD. It seems likely gradually to push towards R17/USD beyond that. This range now forms a crucial part of NCT’s planning and pricing models. NCT competes directly with suppliers from Australia, Vietnam, and Latin America. The strength of the rand erodes our global competitiveness, and with markets under stress, some of our competitors have already adjusted wood chip prices downward — reducing the scope for recovery through a potential USD price increase. Australian companies lost substantial market share in the past two years by adopting a stance that made them uncompetitive, but they have now adjusted their approach. Facing the current market and FX scenarios, NCT must consider the cost of members’ timber and identify what the Co-operative can reasonably afford to pay while preserving a sustainable business model. This will lead to a reduction in log prices across all species, a decision communicated to members prior to this publication. Although NCT must reduce Mill Delivered Prices (MDPs) in the current environment, our commitment remains clear: when conditions improve — whether through a weaker rand, stronger demand, or higher USD chip prices — NCT will prioritise recovering these prices for members. The broader strategic effect on NCT into 2026 and beyond What members should take away People often say NCT must adopt a business model that is independent of the impact of the exchange rate. The exchange rate is not only a macroeconomic indicator – it is a direct determinant of grower income. As we move into 2026, the rand remains stronger than recent years, compressing export revenues; domestic costs continue to rise independently of FX; USD chip pricing is constrained by weak Asian pulp and paper markets and competitor concessions; and NCT’s responsibility is to remain sustainable, equitable, and competitive – even when market conditions tighten sharply. Some argue that NCT should operate independently of exchange-rate impacts or use a business model that is not sensitive to exchange-rate impacts but for an exporter, is a core part of the business model. What we can do is deliberately build FX volatility into our strategic and operational decisions to protect the Co-operative through both strong-rand and weak-rand cycles. That said, what NCT must further do is continue to adapt our strategic and operational decisions around competitiveness, diversification and tactical positioning in readiness for the next economic up cycle. Despite current pressures, NCT remains committed to its members: when the environment improves, the Co-operative will move swiftly to restore MDPs and return value to growers. With prudent management and unity across the value chain, the Co-operative will navigate these conditions and be ready to capitalise on them. Managing FX Risk: How NCT navigates uncertainty To protect the Co-operative and its membership base, NCT continues to employ a balanced approach. We use long-term customer relationships and contract structures; conservative capital expenditure plans; and we strive to ensure optimum operational efficiencies on farms, depots and mills. We also continuously monitor economic trends and commentary by global analysts, their models and analyse endless risk scenarios. We use a conservative hedging strategy that allows us to participate if the rand weakens but allows us to protect our carefully structured budget levels as the rand strengthens. This strategy has gone a long way in cushioning the rapid strengthening of the rand this time around.
4 Listening is at the heart of communication, and the results from our recent employeeengagement survey reminded us just how important it is in our workplace. Many colleagues shared that they sometimes feel their input is overlooked in meetings or decisions. Others noted that instructions or updates can be unclear, which shows how vital it is to listen carefully before responding. When we listen fully, we not only avoid misunderstandings but also show respect for the person speaking. Respect, in turn, builds trust and strengthens relationships. Several survey responses highlighted that when colleagues listen without interrupting or dismissing, collaboration improves. Where disagreements were mentioned, the underlying issue was often that people felt misunderstood, proof that listening is the first step toward resolving conflict constructively. Emotional intelligence, or *EQ, gives us the tools to make listening more effective. Many of us attended the recent EQ team building sessions presented by Michelle Gevers. In the workbook we learned that self-awareness helps us notice when we are distracted instead of paying attention. Self-regulation allows us to pause before reacting, ensuring our responses are thoughtful. Empathy is expressed through listening to understand, not just to reply. Social skills turn listening into action, building trust, clarifying expectations, and resolving issues. When we practice these EQ skills, communication becomes more than exchanging information; it becomes connection. Research backs this up. Studies published in the **Harvard Business Review show that effective listening is not simply staying silent while someone else speaks, it’s about active engagement, asking clarifying questions, and providing thoughtful feedback. Good listeners make conversations a mutually positive experience, which leads to stronger relationships, more trust, and better outcomes. Employees who feel heard are more likely to be engaged and motivated, which directly improves workplace performance and satisfaction. Our own survey results echo this: when staff feel listened to, they are more committed, more collaborative, and more energised. Listening also requires us to overcome barriers. A *** LinkedIn article by Noah Rabinowitz points out that ego often gets in the way, we focus on our own opinions, rush to respond, or listen only to find flaws. Distractions like phones, emails, and multitasking further reduce our ability to engage fully. Recognising these tendencies is the first step to overcoming them. True listening means slowing down, calming the mind, and preparing to give another person your undivided attention. It is, as Rabinowitz describes, an art form that requires practice, patience, and a genuine desire to connect. Each of us can contribute to better communication and listening in simple but powerful ways. We can practice active listening by focusing fully on the speaker and avoiding multitasking. Asking clarifying questions instead of assuming helps ensure understanding. Respecting pauses and allowing colleagues to finish before responding – Neels Reyneke – Human Resource Manager) – Why Listening Matters (a lot)
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 5 shows patience and attentiveness. Acknowledging contributions, even when we disagree, communicates value. Being mindful of tone and body language reminds us that communication isn’t only words. Following up on points raised shows that we truly heard and valued what was said. These small actions, practiced consistently, make a big difference. The human impact of being listened to is profound. When people feel truly heard, they feel respected, valued, and connected. It boosts confidence, encourages openness, and strengthens trust. Conversely, not being listened to can lead to frustration, disengagement, and even isolation. Our survey results highlight this clearly: when listening is absent, trust erodes and motivation drops. But when listening is present, collaboration flourishes. Listening is not just polite, it is powerful. It builds respect, reduces misunderstandings, and strengthens collaboration. As the EQ course material beautifully puts it: “Life is a gift. Live it with integrity. Live it with passion. Live it with gratitude.” When we listen with emotional intelligence, we live those values in our workplace, creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and connected. Together, let’s make listening our strongest skill this year, because when we listen well, we lead well. * Emotional Intelligence Explained - By Michelle Gevers ** Harvard Business Review: Are You Really a Good Listener? - by Jeffrey Yip and Colin M. Fisher *** The Human Art of Listening - Building Stronger Connection - Noah G. Rabinowitz Quick Tips for Better Listening Be present: Put away distractions like phones or emails and give the speaker your full attention. Show engagement: Use eye contact, nodding, and short affirmations to signal you’re listening. Ask clarifying questions: Check understanding instead of assuming, this shows genuine interest. Hold back your response: Let the speaker finish before you reply, silence often signals reflection. Reflect and summarise: Briefly restate what you heard to confirm mutual understanding. Manage your ego: Focus less on being right and more on understanding the other person’s perspective. Respect emotions: Listen not only to words but also to the feelings behind them. Practice empathy: Put yourself in the other person’s shoes to connect more deeply.
6 Agriculture and forestry operations often take place in environments marked by physical isolation, hierarchical structures, seasonal or contract-based labour, and diverse multicultural workforces. These factors can make workers more vulnerable to harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority. Employers therefore carry significant legal and operational duties to prevent and address harmful conduct in the workplace. The Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace (“the Code”) provides guidelines to all employers and employees on the prevention and elimination of all forms of harassment as a form of unfair discrimination in the workplace. Employers are required to provide a clear framework for such prevention and elimination measures, emphasising a zero-tolerance stance on harassment, discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes. The Code further provides an indication of what conduct amounts to harassment and discrimination and the different forms such conduct can take. Harassment is defined as unwanted conduct that Safe, Fair, Inclusive – Natasha Cluckie, Senior Legal Counsel – Your responsibilities as an Employer impairs dignity or creates a hostile environment, when linked to a prohibited ground such as race, gender, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, culture, language, or social origin. Employers in the agricultural and forestry environments must be especially alert to behaviours including verbal abuse, mockery of accents or cultural background, intimidation, exclusion, or misuse of power. Examples of offences include the misuse of authority, such as excluding an employee from work opportunities after refusing inappropriate requests or bullying. This behaviour undermines worker trust, morale, and safety. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that violates dignity. Given that forestry teams often work in remote or mixed-gender settings, persistent unwanted contact, inappropriate messages, or coercive advances may constitute sexual harassment and require immediate intervention. Racial and ethnic harassment remains a persistent risk in culturally diverse labour forces. The Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act emphasises the legal implications of hate speech and hate crimes.
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 7 Employers must recognise that offensive expressions or prejudiced behaviour may amount not only to misconduct in the workplace but also to a criminal offence. To maintain a safe workplace, employers must implement accessible policies, conduct regular training, and ensure that persons who serve as the primary authority on plantations or farms (or any other workplace) understand and enforce expected standards. All employees must be encouraged and empowered to report misconduct, without fear of reprisal. Upon receiving a complaint, employers are obligated to act promptly and fairly. The Code outlines both informal and formal processes: while some matters may be resolved through discussion or mediation, others require a structured grievance process that may result in disciplinary action. Managers and Leaders must: • Model appropriate behaviour • Act promptly when concerns are raised • Maintain confidentiality • Ensure staff feel safe reporting • Escalate incidents according to company policy • Act consistently in addressing incidents. Employees experiencing distress may access: • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) • HR support • Mental health services • External legal or counselling services Ultimately, a respectful workplace is both a legal requirement and a business advantage. Healthy company culture improves safety, productivity, and compliance—critical outcomes for agricultural and forestry operations that rely on teamwork, certification standards, and sustainable labour practices. By embedding the principles outlined, employers can strengthen their workforce and foster an ethical, inclusive environment and most importantly, ensure legal compliance.
8 TRISHA GOVINDSAMY is the Member Services Administrator at NCT , and she has been with the organisation for just over two years. She is naturally outgoing, curious, and thrives in busy environments. She enjoys learning new things, asking questions, and understanding how systems work — traits that have supported her growth within NCT. After finishing high school, Trisha initially studied IT but soon realised it wasn’t the right fit for her. A gap year abroad introduced her to the world of travel and hospitality, which sparked a new direction in her career. She went on to work on cruise ships and later in the broader travel industry. During this time, she gained strong administration and people skills, working with high-end clientele, managing finances, creating tailored itineraries, and dealing with a wide range of personalities. These experiences laid a solid foundation for the work she does today. Trisha joined NCT at a time when the forestry sector was completely new to her. Rather than seeing this as a challenge, she viewed it as an opportunity to learn from the ground up and step into something unfamiliar. This willingness to learn helped her settle into the organisation and grow quickly. She started at NCT as an Administration Assistant in Tree Farming, where her responsibilities included coordinating meetings, managing correspondence, maintaining filing systems, and providing general administrative support. The role gave her valuable insight into how the organisation operates behind the scenes and helped her build a strong understanding of NCT’s internal processes. Coming from a different industry meant learning new terminology and systems, which was challenging at first. By asking questions, observing carefully, and staying open to feedback, Trisha was able to build confidence and become effective in her role. Her efforts were recognised when she was promoted to Member Services Administrator. For Trisha Govindasamy
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 9 Trisha, the promotion confirmed that her hard work and commitment to learning were being acknowledged. The role is more member-focused and team-oriented, which she has really enjoyed. Communication, organisation, and people skills have been key in helping her transition into this position. What Trisha enjoys most about her work is helping members and making processes easier for them. She finds it rewarding knowing that the work done behind the scenes has a real impact on people’s day-to-day experiences. Outside of work, Trisha enjoys spending time with friends and family and being outdoors. She enjoys exploring new places and staying active, which helps her reset and recharge after a busy week. Looking back, Trisha is most proud of how far she has come — from knowing very little about forestry to becoming confident in her role and trusted with responsibility. Her advice to colleagues and young professionals is simple: be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. She lives by the “Eat the Frog” mindset, focusing on tackling challenges head-on and always staying open to learning.
10 During recent UCL Suppliers Forum meetings, it was noted that small growers contribute approximately 5% of the seasonal bark intake of around 50 000 tonnes. This equates to roughly 5 000 tonnes. While this may seem small in percentage terms, it still represents a meaningful contribution to the bark industry. These discussions reinforced that small-growers have an important role to play in the industry, both now and in the future. It is envisaged that this contribution can grow to 10% in the near future. Following land claims in the district, which resulted in changes in land ownership, the need arose to share knowledge between established commercial growers and emerging farmers. This knowledge transfer is essential to ensure the longevity and sustainability of wattle production in the Melmoth district. A consistent and sustainable flow of product to various markets will not only support the local bark industry but also strengthen the local economy and create employment opportunities within the district. On 26 January 2026, a wattle field day was held in Melmoth through a collaboration between UCL and NCT. The event was well attended, with over 20 participants present, approximately 80% of whom were small-growers. The day began with an indoor presentation focusing on both establishment practices and tending operations required to ensure a quality, harvestable crop at the end of the rotation. Key topics included seedling quality, site preparation, pitting, planting, and fertilisation. The importance of timely and cost-effective weed control in our subtropical climate was emphasised, as it plays a critical role in ensuring wattle survival during the first two years after planting. The A good example of heavy branching on a wattle clone. The aim is also to prevent forking and promoting dominant leader growth Wattle Field Day – Melmoth – Maarten Grobbelaar – Estate Manager (Melmoth) – Assessment of the tree is crucial before any pruning is done
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 11 A good pair of loppers is the best tool to do corrective pruning The correct way to plant a wattle seedling Neil Dobeyn doing some groundbreaking work, demonstrating manual pitting Decisions, decisions, decisions. Which trees to keep and which to leave for the final crop Theory in the classroom presented by Neil Dobeyn and Bongani Ndlovu from UCL at the Melmoth Golf Club development of improved genetic material, particularly clones, was also discussed. These advancements were driven by the industry’s response to the challenges posed by wattle rust. Selective and corrective pruning was highlighted as an essential management practice. The outdated “Boere metode,” where all branches were removed up to breast height, has since been replaced by more selective pruning techniques that promote healthier and more productive trees. Following the indoor session, foresters and participants moved into the field, where practical discussions continued. Several field stops allowed further engagement, highlighting both successful outcomes and valuable lessons learned. These in-field discussions provided practical insight and reinforced key take-home messages from the day. The event concluded back at the base, where discussions continued in a relaxed setting around a fire. Participants enjoyed a well-deserved cooldrink and traditional boerewors rolls, kindly provided by UCL. The field day proved to be a valuable opportunity for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and strengthening relationships between commercial growers and small-scale farmers, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the wattle industry in Melmoth. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing that they had gained valuable knowledge on the production and management of wattle. Everyone extended their appreciation to UCL for the informative presentations and to NCT for hosting the day. Special thanks were given to Neil Dobeyn and Bongani Ndlovu for generously sharing their expertise and practical insights, which contributed greatly to the success of the field day.
12 Low density challenges in the woodchips of E. smithii and Acacia mearnsii Noxolo Ndlovu Forestry Research Scientist During the past year, NCT’s main wood chip customers in Asia have expressed concern about a decline in wood chip quality, particularly in wood density. This is a serious issue because it affects: the financial outcomes for our customers; trust and confidence in NCT as a supplier of high-quality wood chips; and potential implications for the end-product, especially if species other than Acacia mearnsii or Eucalyptus smithii are inadvertently included in pure loads. E. smithii and Acacia mearnsii are premium species for NCT because of their favorable wood properties for pulping and their high wood density. High-density loads optimise transport and logistics' costs, making operations more profitable for customers. NCT’s long-standing reputation as a trusted supplier is built on consistent quality; maintaining this trust is crucial for the integrity, stability, and sustainability of NCT and its members. Differences in wood density of various Eucalyptus and Acacia species. While the cause of reduced wood density is still under investigation, foresters and plantation managers must exercise due diligence to ensure compartments remain pure and that loads are not mixed. Different species exhibit distinct wood properties (including but not limited to chemical composition, fibre strength and lengths, wood density), which influence not only transport efficiency but also downstream processing operations (such as cooking times and chemical use during cooking and bleaching stages). Table 1 summarizes the different wood densities reported in literature and in internal research trials for common Eucalyptus and Acacia species. It is acknowledged that wood density does vary across sites and with age.
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 Although E. badjensis looks like E. smithii, it has a lower wood density and pulp yield (Table 1). Vessel loads are contracted in tonnes, but mill production depends on the quantity of usable wood material delivered. When lower-density species are included in loads intended to be pure, the effective wood material per shipment decreases. A load containing contamination with E. badjensis therefore delivers less E. smithii-equivalent material than expected. This reduces transport efficiency and may require additional vessels to meet supply targets, or results in lower-thanplanned production at the mill. Similar considerations apply to black wattle and silver wattle, which are sometimes inadvertently or deliberately mixed. These species differ in wood density and fibre characteristics. When loads intended to be pure are mixed, the effective wood material delivered per tonne changes. As with Eucalyptus, this reduces transport efficiency and can result in under-delivery against contracted volumes. In addition to transport implications, mixed species loads affect downstream processing. While mills are generally capable of handling mixed chip streams, the proportion of different species is critical for optimizing processing conditions. Variations in wood density, fibre characteristics and chemical composition influence chip packing, pulping efficiency and final product yield. Ensuring species purity, or at minimum controlling species composition within defined limits, is therefore important for maintaining predictable and efficient processing performance.
14 Eucalyptus badjensis can be mistaken for Eucalyptus smithii in the field because the bark and adult leaves of both species look similar. However, the following characteristics can help distinguish them: • Adult leaves: E. smithii adult leaves have a distinct, strong, crisp, herbaceous scent when crushed, which is partly why the species is harvested for essential oils. E. badjensis leaves generally lack this strong aroma. • Inflorescence (flower bud clusters): E. badjensis flower buds are arranged in groups of three, whereas E. smithii flower buds are typically in groups of seven (Figure 1 and 2). • Juvenile leaves: E. badjensis juvenile leaves are sessile (stalkless, attaching directly to the stem), lanceolate in shape (narrow, longer than wide, tapering to a pointed tip, and usually widest below the middle), and arranged in opposite pairs that persist for many pairs along the stem. E. smithii juvenile leaves are also sessile and lanceolate, but the opposite arrangement persists only for a few pairs, after which the leaves become alternate (Figure 3) Morphological identification of E. smithii versus E. badjensis Figure 1 E. badjensis flower buds Figure 2 E. smithii flower buds Figure 3 Juvenile E. smithii alternate (decussate) leaves Although the characteristics outlined above can assist in distinguishing E. smithii from E. badjensis, accurate identification in the field remains challenging. Features, such as flower buds, only develop several years after planting and may not be present before felling, while differences in juvenile leaves can be subtle and difficult to assess reliably. As a result, reliance on visual identification alone is often insufficient. For E. smithii and E. badjensis, the most important control measure is therefore sound record-keeping. Plantation managers should maintain strict records of species planted within each compartment and avoid blanking or ‘filling in’ with species other than those originally intended for that compartment.
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 15 Morphological identification of Acacia dealbata (silver wattle) vs Acacia mearnsii (black wattle) Conclusion Differences in wood properties can affect transport and processing efficiency. To ensure consistent supply quality and operational performance, all plantation managers and members are encouraged to take care during harvesting, loading, and dispatch. Maintaining attention to species and load integrity helps NCT remain a trusted and reliable supplier to its customers.
16 NCT Forestry proudly recognised and celebrated the dedication and loyalty of staff members at the Ingwe Farm, who recently received Long Service Awards in honour of their years of contribution. The awards recognised employees who have served between 10 and 30 years, with the longest-serving employee reaching an impressive 30-year milestone. These awards reflect not only the length of service, but also the commitment, resilience, and pride these individuals have shown in their roles over the years. Their contribution has played a meaningful part in the continued growth, stability, and success of operations at Ingwe. The Long Service Awards serve as a reminder that the strength of NCT lies in its people, whose consistent hard work and dedication continue to shape the organisationʼs future. Kisslow Mdluli 20 years service – Driver Supervisor at Broadmore Jabulile Funeka Longest serving employee at Ingwe 30 years services — Lunga Tshangisa – Estate Manager (Ingwe) — Celebrating Commitment Long Service at NCT Ingwe
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 17 Buzokwazi Majola 10 years service – Forest Guard HKP GTN Skhumbuzo Jili 20 years service – Mechanic Assistant Dumisani Mtolo 10 years service – Driver Supervisor HKP GTN Nelisiwe Mngwengwe 20 years service – General Employee Goodness Ntshaba 15 years service – Driver Supervisor
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NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 19
20 Effective firebreak maintenance remains a legal obligation for forestry operations in South Africa and a cornerstone of responsible land management. In preparation for the 2026 fire season, many in the forestry industry have sought clarity on the current regulatory status of herbicides used as part of integrated fire management. Firebreak preparation is not optional. Under the Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998), landowners are required to prepare and maintain firebreaks to prevent the spread of veld fires and reduce risk to neighbouring properties, assets and lives. This obligation applies irrespective of the availability of specific tools or products. This article provides an update on the regulatory status of herbicide options currently under review, outlines what is legally permissible at present and offers practical guidance to support compliant, risk-based decision-making across the forestry industry. An integrated fire management approach to firebreaks Fire management, much like Integrated Pest Management (IPM), relies on a combination of tools and approaches, rather than a single solution. Thus, when deciding upon a firebreak maintenance option the following should be considered: • The site-specific fire hazard and risk. • Site-specific factors which could limit firebreak maintenance, including terrain, slope, and accessibility. • The environmental and social implications of both the options used for firebreak maintenance and the potential risk of a fire, if maintenance did not occur. • Operational feasibility and cost. • Available alternatives. • Long-term sustainability. Herbicides have historically formed part of integrated fire management in certain contexts, particularly where slope, terrain, or access limit the practicality of manual or mechanical methods for preparation. However, they are supporting measures, not replacements, and must be applied selectively, defensibly, and in compliance with applicable legislation. Chemical control options operators can use at present (current legal position) At the time of writing, glyphosate, where registered and used strictly in accordance with label instructions, remains the only herbicide legally available for firebreak or tracer belt preparation in forestry. No other herbicide products may be used for this purpose unless and until formal approval is granted. Use of any unregistered product or use outside label instructions constitutes illegal offlabel use under Act 36. It should be noted that only certain glyphosate products are registered under Act 36 for the preparation of tracer belts in forestry. While glyphosate is not ideal from an environmental perspective, it may be necessary in specific circumstances where manual or mechanical methods are operationally impractical or prohibitively expensive, and where fire risk is high. Where glyphosate is used, the following principles remain critical: Pesticide Options for Firebreak Maintenance INDUSTRY UPDATE FOR THE 2026 FIRE SEASON – Jacqui Meyer, Forestry South Africa (FSA) – – Timber Industry Pesticide Working Group (TIPWG) Coordinator –
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 21 • Apply selectively and in a targeted manner. • Avoid application near watercourses or open bodies of water. • Adhere strictly to label instructions. • Ensure applicators are correctly calibrated to avoid over-application. • Avoid repeated application on the same tracer belt in consecutive seasons. • Integrate with manual or mechanical methods wherever feasible. Alternative herbicide options under review – a regulatory update Pelargonic acid (paraquat alternative) Pelargonic acid has been proposed as a potential alternative to paraquat for firebreak preparation. The registration process has experienced delays linked to technical requirements associated with toxicological data submission. Further engagement between TIPWG, the manufacturer and Registrar is underway to assess whether Good Experimental Practice (GEP)- approved Certificates of Analysis may be accepted, considering the plant-based nature of the active ingredient. With the assistance of South African Bioproducts Organisation (SABO), there is cautious optimism regarding the outcome of this process; however, uncertainty remains with respect to timing. At this stage, pelargonic acid should be regarded as a potential future option, rather than one that can be relied upon for immediate operational planning. Glufosinate-ammonium Glufosinate-ammonium is currently subject to the Act 36 derogation process. Both the timing and outcome of this process remain uncertain. Should a derogation be granted, any use would be restricted to Pest Control Operators (PCO) holding a Restricted Use Remedy PCO licence, and all applications would be required to comply strictly with the conditions attached to such approval. Approved Pesticide List (APL) update As part of the current review cycle, work is underway to update the Approved Pesticide List (APL) to provide clearer guidance on the use of glyphosate for firebreak preparation in limited and specific circumstances. This includes identifying which glyphosate products are registered for this purpose, to support consistent interpretation and compliance across the forestry industry. The timing of this update is linked to the broader APL review process and the need to ensure alignment with existing registrations and regulatory requirements. Once finalised, any updates to the APL will be circulated to members. Off-label use and compliance considerations Use of pesticides outside registered label instructions is illegal under Act 36. Off-label use introduces significant risk, including: • Regulatory non-compliance, which may result in enforcement action by the Registrar, including penalties as provided for in the legislation. • Increased fire risk to plantations, neighbouring properties, and human health where products are misused, misapplied, or applied outside approved label conditions. • Potential non-conformances during Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) or Programme for the Endorsement of Forest CertificationTM (PEFCTM) certification audits. The forestry industry has a strong reputation for responsible fire management, and maintaining this standard depends on continued adherence to both legislative requirements and certification standards. Practical considerations for the 2026 fire season Considering the current regulatory and operational constraints, forestry managers and contractors are encouraged to: • Re-evaluate firebreak placement using existing landscape features such as roads, rivers, and previously disturbed areas.
22 • Prioritise high-risk boundaries and areas of limited access. • Apply integrated approaches combining manual, mechanical and (where legally permissible) herbicide methods. • Document decision-making processes and justifications, especially when involving neighbouring properties. • Plan early to reduce last-minute compliance pressures. Adaptive, flexible and integrated planning will be particularly important in the upcoming fire season. Closing The forestry industry continues to demonstrate a high level of responsibility and commitment to effective fire management. While regulatory processes take time, the legal obligation to prepare and maintain firebreaks remains clear. By applying a risk-based, integrated approach and operating within the bounds of current legislation, the industry can continue to protect assets, neighbouring communities and the environment, while maintaining compliance and certification integrity. Tracer burning
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 23 Burnt tracer Desiccated grass
24 Sentience v
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 25 – Rob Thompson – Assistant General Manager – Artificial Intelligence (AI) certainly appears to have secured a top position in the news, social media and general conversation. From countless TED talks on the topic – through to AI-enhanced videos on YouTube – through to students handing in AI generated essays – through to uninvited AI minute-takers on Teams' meetings – through to AI bots on coldcalls selling insurance – through to AI writing NCT News and Views articles (kidding), AI is definitely well on its way to infiltrating literally every aspect of our lives. What happens when the tech-driven race towards Super AI gains traction? What can we expect when Super AI successfully commences with the design of ever more powerful iterations of itself? What will the role of humankind be once literally every event / fact / discovery / speculation is anticipated and made accessible to all? One specific talk I listened to suggested an answer to that question which did not engender much comfort. The speaker simply said: ”We’re doomed!” Or are we? Of late, I have been thinking of the concept of “sentience” quite a lot. This was not triggered by any AI-related discussion but stemmed from a rather tragic incident that I witnessed whilst recently travelling through the Golden Gate Highland National Park. A twitchy aggressive driver behind me had developed an insatiable interest in my exhaust pipe judging by the distance he kept between himself and the rear of my vehicle. I gave him space to pass, and the cretin roared past and disappeared over the hill. As I summited the hill, I saw that the vehicle had struck a baboon infant in the road leaving it lifeless on the tarmac. Of course, the vehicle was nowhere to be seen having abandoned the scene. The bereaved troop had immediately fanned out in defensive mode, and a huge male made a dash into the road to retrieve the infant, whilst guarded on both flanks by his chattering lieutenants. The anger and sadness reflected in the eyes of the members of that baboon troop permeated ones inner being and memory of the incident has remained ever since. The event drove home to me the fact that these creatures are indeed sentient beings. Wikipedia (or is that AI?) tells us that "sentience" is defined as the ability to feel or perceive sensations (e.g. pain, pleasure, emotions) and have subjective experiences (phenomenal consciousness). Most animals are considered sentient to varying degrees. The baboon troop that I had encountered displayed emotions in bucket loads confirming them to be sentient beasts. On top of that however, there was another noticeable attribute. They displayed cognitive reasoning. The defensive positioning that they adopted and the tactical approach towards retrieving the victim from danger, were clear illustrations of these creatures possessing a higher intellect and reasoning ability. This observation led me down another rabbit hole which ultimately ended up with the discovery of the concept of sapience. s sapience
26 "Sapience" (again ironically according to AI) is defined as the ability to act rationally, use knowledge and experience to make sound judgments, and engage in complex, abstract thought. Could it be that these primates were both sentient and sapient or at least possessed some semblance of each attribute? On reflection it feels to me that the troop had a far more nurturing and caring instinct than the idiot hit-and-run driver who caused them the duress, which in turn seems to indicate that differing levels of these attributes are likely to be found across the species that inhabit this rock. Humans will obviously lay claim to being the alpha possessors of the sentience and sapience combination, but again the incident I observed proves differing levels even within same species! Do we even recognise the presence and value of sapience? The older I get, the more I feel that the concept is merely academic and the majority of humans would far rather live from day-to-day engrossed in the alternative concept of self and selfaggrandisement. This explains the abovementioned drivers’ focus on getting to his destination fast, recklessly and at all costs. It explains the actions of politicians the world over who actively pluck mediocrity from the arms of reason. It explains poor service delivery in lieu of provision of excellence. It also explains quite clearly the insatiable appetite that humans have developed for social media, manic scrolling and instant gratification. If we look at the environment in which we live through a sapient lens, the tragic nonsustainability of the fragmented landscape becomes highly visible. Polluted rivers and abused eco-systems abound. Carbon emissions, habitat destruction, destructive farming methods, overpopulation, economic greed, and rampant solidwaste creation, all contribute towards the irrevocable stoppage of the ecological clock on which we all depend so much. In our own industry, for instance, the lack of awareness of sapience and alternative focus on self, gives rise to supply-chain breaches, unethical timber flow, staff and supplier issues, and a multitude of other compliance challenges, all necessitating formulated procedures, protocols, certifications, and controls to guide human behaviour – all behaviour that ought to be instinctive and inherent if we are really that alpha species that we claim to be! Let’s go back to my baboon troop. Here you will find very little evidence of self-aggrandisement. The individuals comprising the troop rely on the environment and instinctively utilise such in a far less destructive manner than their human counterparts. They generally look after their fellows rather than competing at all costs. Food sources are shared as apposed to being stocked up by the fortuitous few. An incident befalls the troop, and all members are activated to respond appropriately. There is no evidence of obscene individual benefits or privileges. Leaders live with the troop, experience the same things as the troop, contribute towards the troop and earn their leadership positions through being both physically and mentally capable. The more I read of the topic, the more I learn of the theories as to just how far the attributes of sentience and sapience stretch across all of the various life forms on earth. The commonly-held belief is that invertebrates do not possess much by way of sentience but merely react automatedly to
NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2026 27 external stimuli. I like to argue this point given my experiences in dealing with bee hives and ant formicariums. It is my contention that queen bees and ants display more than adequate evidence of nurture and care to warrant a re-look at the invertebrate theory. Just how far do the attributes stretch through the vertebrate species? Anybody who has owned a dog will know that dogs are definitely sentient creatures and you can extrapolate that to birds and any number of domestic animals. In the realm of wild animals, the late Jane Goodall proved countless times the sapience of chimps whilst other naturalists the world over regale countless stories of sentient animal encounters. With all this said, one might contend that sentience and sapience are both very real. All living creatures demonstrate these attributes in a lessor or greater manner. OK – so I’m a forester so don’t get me started on the attributes of trees. Just imagine the angst of the poor chainsaw operator should all the neighbouring trees begin to growl as he stealthily approaches his target! In any event, back to the reality of sentience and sapience. What is it that prevents humans from acknowledging and applying the attribute of sentience? Why do we not accept that deep within our core there lurks a considerable dose of sapience? We actually do have the ability to act rationally, use knowledge and experience to make sound judgments, and engage in complex, abstract thought, and yet we don’t – or at least not effectively! We are allowing ourselves to implode. We are gradually destroying all of our natural lifelines, and we are focusing on matters that will ultimately hasten our demise as well as other lifeforms around us. What will it take to revive our seemingly suppressed sapience back to the forefront of our consciousness where it can guide us appropriately? What do we have to do and if we do it will it actually make a difference? Can we turn back the tide of human indifference and a rapidly developing raw and un-tempered reverence for AI? As foresters we have a closer link to natural systems than many others do. We see the effect of our actions on the environment and other lifeforms on a daily basis and therefore ought to be more in “contact” with our sentience than many others. Therein lies at least one answer to the questions that I have raised. We need to learn to extract real lessons from the observations we make of the environment and events that occur around us. Every external stimulus tells a story and we need to programme ourselves to find that story and apply it to our lives appropriately. Interpreting real life tangible events teaches us so much more than a convenient lifeless algorithm on social media. Applying lessons learnt contributes so much more than absorbing reams of inane inanimate digital servings. Actively recognising one’s own sapience via interpreting life observations, provides a lens through which one recognises the value of reallife, the need to preserve tangible and productive lifelines responsibly and identifies the omnipresence of AI. The sapience lens further allows one to assess the merits or not of accepting the AI offering, in what format to accept it if we choose that path, and to what extent. AI is here to stay. Of this I have no doubt. Our own actively regenerated sapience, however, may well be the final and, only. remaining defense against Super AI’s inexorable advance into our very state of being and humanity.
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