Economic boom strains Waterberg resource

Abstract

Resources management The Mokolo River Catchment covers an area of 8 387 km2, stretching from the Waterberg Mountains through the upper reaches of the Sand River. It includes a number of small tributaries that join the main Mokolo River up to its confluence with the Limpopo River, including the T ambotie River, Poer-se-Loop, and the Rietspruit River. According to Beyers Havenga, Department of Water Affairs & Forestry (DWAF) Chief Engineer: National Water Resources Planning (North), water availability and water use in the catchment are in balance, with no spare resources existing for future allocations. “In addition, considering the water requirements of the Reserve as stipulated in South Africa’s water legislation, there is insufficient water to maintain the present balance,” he tells the Water Wheel. Irrigation is the largest present water user here. The area contributes significantly towards agricultural activity in the province, with produce including tobacco, sorghum, maize and sunflower.

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