The Modderfontein Reserve was established in 1988. It covers an area of 275 hectares. The Reserve includes a variety of habitats ranging from grasslands, forests and riverine vegetation to wetlands.

The Reserve was established by AECI to demonstrate that industry and nature can co-exist. At the heart of the Reserve is a small complex of buildings called “ISIDLEKE” which means “the nest” in isiZulu.

Isidleke comprises three buildings: an old barn, Dobb’s House and an office complex. The old barn was built in 1900 by Randlord Sir Alfred Beit, who was once the owner of a hunting lodge in the area. The only part of the hunting lodge that remains today is the observation tower. The barn was used to stage carriages and horses and has been restored to its former glory. The old estate manager’s house, Dobb’s House, built in 1934 has also been restored.

The Modderfontein Heritage:

For over a century a rich social tapestry has been woven in the village of Modderfontein, Johannesburg.  The buildings which stand as a living monument to the people who created them and to those who have lived and worked in them are the most prominent threads.

Heritage is created over time.  It is the base on which to build a future.  It is something of which to be proud.  Part of Modderfontein’s heritage has been established in these monuments of brick and mortar.

There are many buildings that date from before the turn of the 20th century.  There are other, later constructions which have historical and architectural merit.  They are all deserving of preservation.

The Modderfontein Conservation Society has a heritage arm that is working closely with Zendai Heartland in an effort to create a “Heritage Precinct” in the old part of the village.  This group is helping Zendai Heartland with The Dynamite Company Museum, its different facets and liaising with organisations and communities in the area.  It is also recording aspects of Modderfontein where change is happening or scheduled to happen.  This aspect of Modderfontein Heritage Conservation is headed by Keith Martin (Phones: 011 608 2864 or 082 450 4003 and email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)).

The Society’s Objectives are as follows :

• To actively recruit members from Modderfontein and surrounding communities and encourage interest in conservation, with a view to maintaining a suitable balance between its many aspects;

• To strive for the protection and management of indigenous flora and fauna, including bird species;

• To encourage and promote interest in preserving the natural and historical aspects of Modderfontein;

• To act as environmental watchdog within the Modderfontein area;

• To provide guidance to AECI, Residents Associations and local authorities on policy regarding the purpose, use and development of the Modderfontein Reserve;

• To formulate and maintain policy on the removal and replacement of alien plant species in the Reserve;

• To act as advisors on the development of the Reserve;

• To facilitate experiential environmental education and training for school children from a full range of cultural backgrounds;

• To promote environmental research projects at secondary and tertiary education levels, and post-graduate studies; and

• To co-ordinate and encourage special interest activities in the form of special conservation sub-groups.