South Africa is considered a semi-arid country with an average rainfall of approximately 464mm per annum. This is half of the global average of 786mm per annum. Our main water source is the Klaserie Dam, conveniently located approximately a kilometre away from the bulk of the operation. The Klaserie Dam was specifically built with a view to increase storage capacity for agricultural water and to facilitate the management of the water source. In the years 1950 to 1990, a very active agricultural sector was established in the area and most of the agricultural water was taken up and used. However, agricultural activities have been declining systematically since 1990 and the tourism industry has replaced many of the active agricultural units.

We have endeavoured to provide a reliable, safe and sustainable water supply in our reserve for our operations in different ways. Although water can be considered to be in abundance, it must still be used with the necessary discretion. Our aim is to cut water demand by as much as 25% in the coming 5 years. This will be achieved by carefully considered changes to the way water is currently being used.

We’re installing water-saving faucets and shower heads

Key modifications include water-saving faucets being installed on all taps, followed by water-saving shower heads. This will help to cut water demand at the lodge significantly.

We’re installing rain harvesting systems

After these small yet equally important changes have been made, rain harvesting systems will be implemented at key facilities. Using the tiled roof of the main lodge, enough water can be stored for use in the laundry, kitchen and vehicle wash bay. The rain harvesting will help reduce the water required from the river, resulting in reduced run times for energy intensive pumps. We are striving to implement better rainwater harvesting methods, to collect and use rainwater for various activities around the lodge, including watering the herb gardens.

We make use of a water treatment facility

A water treatment facility was installed to ensure that water from the Klaserie River is treated sufficiently for human consumption.

We’ve installed specialised sewerage dams

Specialised sewerage dams are in place beneath all the lodge areas and staff quarters. These dams reduce the risk of underground water being polluted by human debris.

We’ve implemented a water monitoring plan

A Groundwater and Surface Water Monitoring Plan was established with the objective of identifying pollution and irregularities in good time to develop and implement means to rectify poor situations. This programme includes routine monitoring of groundwater levels, rainfall figures, and water quality, and the evaluation of hydro-geological monitoring data by a qualified hydro-geologist on a biannual basis. The water quality of the sewage effluent should comply with the required Department of Water Affairs standards at all times.