Akhona Mazinye paints a camphor tree in Orpen Road, Tokai, as part of a drive to prevent bark stripping. Arborist Francois Krige, with support from TreeKeepers, an organisation working to conserve the urban forest, and the City’s recreation and parks department, is behind the painting of indigenous trees in Tokai, Constantia, Newlands, Claremont and Kenilworth. According to Mr Krige, whose company has paid for some of the paint, the trees’ bark is stripped for it medicinal properties. “Once stripped completely, the trees die, so this is a very practical simple way to protect them.” Mayoral committee member for community services and health Patricia van der Ross said the recreation and parks department had donated some non-toxic paint to the project to protect City-owned trees. “These efforts are appreciated, and we encourage community initiatives to protect City trees, implemented in consultation with the recreation and parks department.” Should you see trees at risk of bark stripping in your area, call Natasha Munro at 072 894 2732.