Water Wise Watch - February 2025
03.02.25
Celebrating Wetlands Day in 2025
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.
- 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.
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.
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At the VRBR, boat applications were undertaken from the mouth of the Taaibosspruit to 1.5km upstream of the R59 bridge.
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Further, applications were done at the Ascot chicane line, where IAPs had been collected.
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At the Taaibosspruit, 4.6ha (hectors) of IAPs were sprayed via drones on the 27 December 2024.
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.
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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
Source:
www.arc.agric.za
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