The View from the Foot of the Heart Shaped Waterfall

Earlier this year Michel Martineau made a private donation of Land to the St Helena National Trust.  This very welcome gift was reported in a previous newsletter.

The donated land comprises the valley floor, stretching from the foot of the Heart Shaped Waterfall for about 1km. [1,100 yds.] to Drummond’s Point where there is access to the valley floor.  Drummond’s Point is a walkable distance from Jamestown.

The whole of the valley floor has been taken over by invasive species in recent decades.  The St Helena Nature Conservation Group spent several weekends strenuously hacking through the vigorous growth to create a walking trail up to the foot of the Waterfall.  Despite their valiant efforts, access for walkers to one of the most famous and beautiful geological Island features is limited to fit, adventurous and youthful.

The project funding application includes clearance of the invasive growth from the valley floor, the provision of access steps at Drummond’s Point, steps and walkways to provide safe and comfortable walking routes over steep inclines and a boulder field. 

Also planned is the re-use of plantation terraces which cover parts of the valley floor.  Not so long ago these terraces were used to cultivate vegetables and cattle fodder.  Good quality top soil still exists.  Dry stone walls were used to hold the soil in place.  Several of these walls are still in good condition.  The plantation terraces will be used to cultivate some of the Island’s endemic species.

Information boards citing the history and geology of the area will be positioned along the walking route together with seating and picnic tables at the foot of the waterfall.

This funding application is now with the Overseas Territories Environmental Projects [OTEP] for consideration early in the New Year.  If our application is successful, work on vegetation clearance could start in April 2008.

Related Information

Heartshaped Waterfall Project Page

Heartshaped Waterfall Update July 2008

Bids for Environmental Funding

New funding