The Cederberg was proclaimed a wilderness area in 1973. The Cederberg was proclaimed a wilderness area in 1973. It is home to the endemic rare and endangered Clanwilliam Cedar tree (Widdringtonia cedarbergensis), the namesake of the area. The aim of the Cedar tree restoration project is to prevent the extinction of this majestic tree species. The Cedar trees dates back to the last ice age 300-255 million years ago when the landscape was much colder. The Cedar trees are under tremendous pressure due to climate change that result in more frequent fires and less rainfall. Fire is devastating to these trees as they do not resprout after being burned and die. Lower rainfall reduces natural germination of seeds and survival of seedlings.

Conservation efforts to increase the numbers of the Cedar trees began in 1805 when forest rangers realised that the harvesting of the Cedar wood was reducing numbers. Collecting and distribution of seeds and planting of seedlings have taken on various forms. In recent years the use of a Waterboxx® have help to secure water for the survival of the seedlings.

Annually volunteers from the Cederberg communities and surrounding areas assist to plant Cedar tree seedlings to increase the number of Cedar trees in the mountain.

Read more about the work being done to save the endangered Clanwilliam Cedar Tree (Widdringtonia cedarbergensis).