Email This Print this page More...

Water Wise Watch - February 2025

03.02.25

Logo_February 2025

This month at Water WiseWWD_2025_socialmedia_static_EN (1)

Celebrating Wetlands Day in 2025
 

World Wetlands Day will be celebrated internationally on the 2nd of February 2025 under the theme: “Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future”. The theme emphasizes the need for swift action to save these natural areas for the benefit of all people and to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits that wetlands offer.

Why Wetlands Matter to Humans and the Environment?
  • Biodiversity: Wetlands support a high diversity of species, many of which depend entirely on these ecosystems for their survival.
  • Water Management: Wetlands help regulate water cycles by absorbing excess water during floods and slowly releasing it during dry periods, reducing the risk of extreme weather events.
  • Carbon Sequestration: Wetlands are among the most efficient ecosystems for storing carbon, which helps combat climate change.
  • Livelihoods: Many communities depend on wetlands for resources like fish, reeds, and medicinal plants. Wetlands also provide valuable land for agriculture and tourism.               
How to get Involved:
  • Local Cleanups: Participate in or organize local wetland clean-up efforts.
  • Educational Events: Attend or support talks, seminars, or workshops to learn more about the importance of wetlands.
  • Advocacy: Use social media to share facts about wetlands, promote sustainable practices, and encourage policies that protect wetland ecosystems.
Source:

This month at Water WiseGZEDq2raYAAFyV7

 

Rand Water & Vaal Barrage Community Plenary Meeting

On 07 January 2025, a progress meeting involving stakeholders of the Vaal River Barrage community and Rand Water was held at Stonehaven at the Vaal. Discussions were centered on the work that was undertaken at the Vaal River Barrage Reservoir (VRBR) during the period of 24 December 2024 – 03 January 2025.

The following aspects were discussed:
(i). Physical removals were undertaken at the Loch Vaal, where ~45m3 of Invasive Alien Plants (IAPs) were removed from the watercourse.
(ii). Chemical applications were administered at various parts of the VRBR including the Taaibosspruit.
  • At the VRBR, boat applications were undertaken from the mouth of the Taaibosspruit to 1.5km upstream of the R59 bridge.
  • Further, applications were done at the Ascot chicane line, where IAPs had been collected.
  • At the Taaibosspruit, 4.6ha (hectors) of IAPs were sprayed via drones on the 27 December 2024.

Water Wise gardening ideas

images (9)

Picture 1

How You Can Integrate Wetland Features into Your Garden

Creating a garden that benefits from the principles of wetlands doesn’t require turning your backyard into a swamp. Instead, consider incorporating some of these wetland-inspired features:

  • Rain Gardens: Designate a low area in your garden to capture rainwater runoff and plant native wetland species that thrive in waterlogged conditions.
  • Bioswales: Create natural ditches with plants that filter water, slowing down and redirecting runoff before it reaches your garden.
  • Permeable Surfaces: Use materials like gravel, porous paving, or mulch to encourage water absorption and reduce surface runoff.
  • Moisture-Tolerant Plants: Choose plants that are suited for both wet and dry conditions, helping them thrive in fluctuating moisture levels
Wetlands are nature’s unsung heroes when it comes to flood control. By adopting wetland-inspired strategies in your garden, you can reduce the risk of flooding, improve soil health, and create a more sustainable and resilient landscape. Not only will your plants thrive, but your garden will also contribute to the overall health of the environment by mimicking the natural water management systems that have existed for centuries.

Source:
www.arc.agric.za

WW tip of the monthCar washes_Latest

 

 
Help Save Water - Take a Survey

Be part of the solution!
We want to hear from homeowners and green industry experts. Take a short survey and share your views on grass watering practices.

Simply follow the link or scan the QR code below that best describes you and have your say in water-wise lawn care!

Homeowners:
https://forms.office.com/r/Lm0ShbYHDr?origin=lprLink
Green Industry:
https://forms.office.com/r/kSLN6zC2CY?origin=lprLink

market research - lawn watering trendsEnvironmental days

download (8) 02 February: World Wetlands Day
15 February: World Hippopotamus Day
18 February: World Pangolin Day 
18 February: World Whale Day

Water and environmental news

Vaal Dam levels increase but expert says our heads are not yet above water
"Despite recent improvements in the Vaal Dam’s water levels, a water expert warns that South Africans should continue to implement water conservation practices..."
Vaal-Dam-Water-levels
South African Flag Flies High At IWA World Water Congress
A fellow, distinguished fellows, IWA (International Water Association) president, various presentations, and workshops as well as a Bronze Innovation Award: South African water professionals did us proud at the IWA World Water Congress in Toronto..."
IWA-awards-2024-300x225

Thermoplastic pipes: A critical solution to South Africa’s water crisis
"GAUTENG’s ongoing water woes have once again dominated the headlines, highlighting the province’s deepening water insecurity.  Widespread and frequent water outages have left communities across Gauteng struggling..."

images (5)

Follow us on our social media

Click on the links below to access our social media pages for more on water and environmental news and issues.

Social-media
Asset 1  Website icon  Instagram icon  Facebook icon  Email icon youtube-1837872_1920
Twitter Website Instagram Facebook Email YouTube