Progress Update 10 Nov 2016

Murraysburg, Western Cape, November 10, 2016– It is now two months since work commenced on the rehabilitation of the town’s historic lei-water system. The project is rapidly nearing completion and we are hopeful that we will be able to begin diverting water into the newly refurbished dams before the end of November.

Diversion weir and inlet furrow
The following photograph shows the historical diversion weir and the beginning of the furrow’s 2Km route through the veld towards the town.

The next photograph illustrates the magnitude of the earthworks involved and provides a good view of the precision with which the original furrow was constructed over 100 years ago. Truly remarkable if one thinks of the resources available at the time.

The Dams
This photograph below shows how the derelict dams have been completely re-shaped and brought back to life. Of special interest to those people with fond memories of the original dams will be the creation of an island out of the old “middel mannetjie”. This will enable us to create a bird sanctuary that is protected from predatory animals.

In the next photo, taken from ground level, the refurbished dams can be seen to good effect, illustrating the island that will emerge when the dams are filled.

Finishing touches
As can be seen, the finishing touches are under way. The next photograph shows the first of the two sluices which will control the flow of water into the dams nearing completion …

And new valves and outlet pipes await the arrival of water in the dams!

Funding has been provided by the Programme - Sustainable Resource Management, Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government. The project will provide long-term and sustainable benefits to all residents of Murraysburg and will support the implementation of additional projects to enhance the town’s recreational facilities as well as contributing to food and water security.

Casidra, (Cape Agency for Sustainable Integrated Development in Rural Areas), is the implementing agency for the project.
The contract was awarded by Public Tender to Vastrap Grondverskuiwings BK, Murraysburg
A further Release will be made to coincide with the completion and commissioning of the Project.

The MSDC is a registered Non Profit Company with members, formed to ensure the protection and sustainable development of Murraysburg’s natural and heritage resources in a manner that will be beneficial to all of its people.