KNP TO CLOSE MORE ARTIFICIAL WATER HOLES

KNP TO CLOSE MORE ARTIFICIAL WATER HOLES

The Kruger National Park (KNP) will demolish three artificial water holes in the southern part of the Park in the week of 8-12 December 2014. Explosives used to demolish these structures; after which the rubble removed as part of the rehabilitation process.

Three of the six water-holes closed will be either: N’wanetsana concrete weir – found at Mutlumvi concession, Rhino Walking Safaris. Bejwane – located along the southern side of N’wasitshaka River, in the Skukuza Section, far from tourist roads. Matlhari, Olienhoutfontein, and N’wasitshaka River far from tourist roads in the Pretoriuskop Section. Also N’watindlopfu South (Olifant Drinkgat), and Manzimahle North are in the vicinity of Mantimahle Dam.

“The area around the target structures will be cleared to ensure animals and human beings are safe; all roads in the areas will also be temporarily closed. Specific information with regards to which roads closed when communicated closer to the time. KNP has been closing artificial water points for the past seven years, with the last closures having taken place in May 2013,” said the General Manager: Communications and Marketing, Mr William Mabasa.

Artificial water holes where water did not previously occur have led to numerous ecological problems such as erosion and other environmental degradation. This also resulted in a negative consequence for the rare herbivore species such as roan and sable antelope, increasing grazing competition by the more abundant herbivores. Conservation management has taken steps to rectify these negative consequences by closing and demolishing certain artificial water holes.

Naturally occurring water holes in the area, where possible and where negative ecological consequences are not likely will replace these.

“With the continuous research data at our disposal, we have gradually changed our outlook on biodiversity management over the years. With this data available, policies and procedures can be revisited and revised; and this is evident in the change in policy regarding water distribution in the Park” concluded Mabasa.