Water Wheel May/June 2026: Ecological Infrastructure

Abstract

Water resources in the semi-arid Baviaanskloof: A fascinating area with contrasting water-related ecological infrastructure Arid and semi-arid areas such as South Africa are defined by their harsh climate, high evapotranspiration rates, unequal rainfall distribution and extended dry seasons. Investments in ecological infrastructure are seldom considered as a way of augmenting water supplies and improving water quality over the long term. However, with few remaining undeveloped dam sites and little remaining streamflow (Hedden and Cilliers, 2014), ecological infrastructure can play a meaningful role in water resource management by sustaining, supplementing or, in some cases, substituting for built infrastructure such as inter-basin transfers and dams. Ecological infrastructure refers to naturally functioning intact ecosystems that deliver valuable services to people (SANBI, 2013). Water-related ecosystem services include recreational services, soil formation, flood attenuation and water supply.

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