SABI magazine

MAGAZINE TYDSKRIF THE MAGAZINE FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN IRRIGATION INDUSTRY • DIE TYDSKRIF VIR DIE SUID-AFRIKAANSE BESPROEIINGSBEDRYF

ISSN 2071-1883

Women’s Month Special Mariska’s marvellous success Irrigation scheduling

Controlled Irrigation celebrates 50th Dogs help fight poaching

Volume 10 • Issue 6 • SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

BE IRR SP IG RO AT EI ION IN G

Drip irrigate your home garden

CONTENTS

contents Carol Posthumus carol@sabi.co.za

Women in irrigation

Editor

Mariska’s success inspires

Riana Lombard riana@sabi.co.za Advertising Sales

4

Renshia’s growing a social enterprise

Pg4

Scheduling

Pg8

René van der Merwe

19

A holistic overview, Part 2: scheduling and soils variation

Fresh products Agriplas advertorial

admin@sabi.co.za Subscriptions and circulation

12

Events

Isobel van der Stoep

Controlled Irrigation celebrates 50th Anniversary

isobel@sabi.co.za

How To

Technical Executive Officer

How to create a waterwise irrigation system at home

Annemarie van der Westhuizen

Pg16

Technical Assistant

Liam Hamer-Nel liamh@mweb.co.za | alliancephoto.com Graphic Design

Contributors:

Pg30

Mike de Villiers, Emile Jordaan, Diandra Steenekamp &

Pg40

Prof Leon van Rensburg

Tel: +27 21 981 8873

Media Support www.mediasupport.co.za

16

33

Water One & Only hotel in Cape Town saves much water

20

Mokopane community gets potable water supply at last

30

What caused Cape Town’s water shortage?

38

Equipment Earthmoving relaunch

27

Vehicles 28

Fresh products

Colourtone Aries, Cape Town, RSA

www.ezwenimags.co.za

Engine selection matters

Toyota Hilux Dakar - Tough get tougher

Printing

Ezweni Magazine Distribution

14

Power

annemarie@sabi.co.za

Distribution

8

Solar inverters for pumps

Pg45

31

Awards Mozambique irrigation PPP gets Brit award

32

Research Earth observation approach to mapping irrigated areas

40

Environment

Cover Photograph

Protecting Mpumalanga’s water

42

Lavender fields.

Dogs help catch rhino and elephant poachers

43

Published by SABI

Irrigation design fees

(South African Irrigation Institute /

Feedback

Suid Afrikaanse Besproeiingsinstituut)

Regulars

T: +27 21 850 8220 | E: carol@sabi.co.za

45

From the editor

2 SABI Approved Designers

44

Web: www.sabi.co.za

President’s message

3 Subscribe now

47

Address: PO Box 834, Strand, 7139,

Company members

Western Cape, South Africa

Seasonal Climate

34 Advertisers’ contents

48

Dam levels

35 Contacts and diary

48

SABI magazine / tydskrif is a bi-monthly publication.

23-25 Training update

47

© Copyright: South African Irrigation Institute/Suid-Afrikaanse Besproeiingsinstituut (SABI).

Requests to reproduce material herein should be addressed to carol@sabi.co.za.

All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The views expressed herein by authors or advertisers are not necessarily subscribed to or endorsed by SABI or the editor.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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From the Editor

About SABI

Editor’s message South African Women’s Month

methodologies, water conservation

Carol Posthumus

and sustainability.

I

n this edition, we celebrate women’s month and focus on women in irrigation and the green industry.

On the 9th of August 1956, over 20 000 women of all races marched in unison to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to hand over a petition.

Though the march was against the restrictive pass laws, it led to significant changes towards the emancipation of women.

Their clarion call was “you strike a woman, you strike the rock”. Hopefully these days South Africans are more aware of the fact that when you “care for women, you care for a rock of society”.

Empowerment Notably, not only in South Africa but worldwide there

(South African Irrigation Institute) aims to boost optimal irrigation

Celebration

We are proud to feature two dynamic young women entrepreneurs, Mariska Sonnekus of H&M Machinery and Irrigation (pg 4) and Renshia Manuel of Growbox (pg 33).

Cape Town-headquartered SABI

is a renewed interest in encouraging girls and women to enter technical fields, such as irrigation. Reportedly, a shortage of skilled personnel in the trades is driving up wages in these arenas. And, interestingly, teachers in the USA recently said in a report by the Social Justice Foundation that girls-only technical classes at school help to escalate job prospects and a sense of empowerment.

The advice to girls assessing a technical career, aptly, includes – “follow the boys, that is where the money is.”

I attended high school at Willowmoore High in Benoni, which offers technical and academic streams.

The technical classes were populated in the main by very lively and highly spirited boys; who, perhaps were challenging to their teachers at times but were set for successful futures.

Indeed, today a great many of those learners from the Willowmoore technical classes own thriving businesses or are heading up top corporations locally and abroad. It does appear technical skills are empowering in many ways.

The technical skills are often an arena that entrepreneurs need to fast track their skills in, if they were schooled in a nontechnical environment.

In this edition, Renshia Manuel says she had to learn technical skills for her nursery and seedling social enterprise Growbox, along with vital skills in public speaking and presentation. H&M Machinery and Irrigation’s owner Mariska Sonnekus also says that she needed to learn about technologies and equipment initially; her interest in the technical arena grew rapidly even though she came from a finance background.

We congratulate Mariska and Renshia on their achievements.

Happy reading!

SABI promotes the sharing of irrigation knowledge via: • SABI membership and branch activities • SABI Congress, the bi-annual leading African irrigation event • IrrigationWise Academy courses in agriculture and landscape, presented nationwide with courses from entry to an advanced technical level • SABI magazine, the Institute’s official technical journal and the only irrigation magazine in South Africa.

People from the irrigation, water, agricultural, landscape and related disciplines join SABI as they believe that responsible irrigation water use can result in water savings, increased socio-economic benefits, healthier communities, enhanced agricultural production, sustainable and attactive environments and further benefits such as energy saving.

To advertise in SABI magazine visit: www.sabi.co.za, contact SABI on +27 021 850 8220 or email info@sabi.co.za

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

President’s Message

Irrigation brings improvements

T

he arrival of good winter rainfall in the Western Cape has indeed been wonderful, with the news that the Western Cape’s dams are now, at the time of writing, up to an average level of 50%. Last year the dams’ average level was 25,7%.

However, water conservation and wise use of water at all times must now continue as the “new norm”, along with the celebrations in the Cape at the mere sight of green grass and fuller dams.

The question of weather extremes is having an impact in Europe at present. A historic heatwave is being experienced, with wild fires raging in Sweden and Greece, with very high temperatures in many areas.

The UK last experienced a similar heatwave in the summer of 1976. In an article in The Conversation.com by James Paul Bowen and John Martin, they predict however that Britain’s record-breaking heatwave will this time not have the huge effect on the food supply as the hot and dry

conditions did during 1976. There were severe shortages of potatoes and leafy vegetables such as lettuces during the last heatwave.

“In the 1970s, unlike today, irrigation was limited to a small number of farmers. Potato crops were therefore subject to severe water shortages, which led to very slow growth, particularly for those crops being grown on more drought-prone lighter soils.

So, while the dry winter of 197576 had enabled potatoes and horticultural crops to be planted early, the ground was already suffering from a moisture deficit,” Bowen and Martin write.

Notably, irrigation makes a huge difference in the European heatwave – many farmers in the UK irrigate today, and thus can

mitigate the effect of the drought more effectively. It is always good to see the improvements irrigation can bring to societies!

In this issue of SABI magazine, we cover a variety of topics in our Women’s Month Special Edition, which features an interview with Mariska Sonnekus, who owns an irrigation company in the Newcastle district. With the drive to expand skills in irrigation, SABI is seeing more talented ladies enter the sector and signing up for SABI courses.

Scheduling is a vital topic that authors Emile Jordaan, Diandra Steenkamp and Prof Leon van Rensburg explore, in the second part of a series, as they look at soil variability and the implications for scheduling decisions.

Regular How-To columnist Mike de Villiers gives domestic gardeners some great practical tips on how to create a waterwise irrigation system. Mike takes

Willie Vosloo – Preside

nt

the home gardeners through an installation of a drip system for their garden; we hope many people explore this option towards a water wise garden.

We are getting lively response on the debate topic we kicked off with in last edition: “Should irrigation designers charge design fees?” Please feel free to also join in the design fee debate - see page 45 for more details.

The new irrigation season starts in August, I hope you have a great season and an excellent spring.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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Women in irrigation

Mariska’s great Faith, miracle recovery and success

Inspires

By Carol Posthumus

S

ABI magazine is celebrating South Africa’s Women’s Month in this edition.

Women in South Africa are increasingly entering technical and agricultural fields, and irrigation is no different.

One of irrigation’s young and dynamic business owners Mariska Sonnekus, owner of H&M machinery and Irrigation CC, based in the Newcastle region of KwaZulu-Natal. It seemed very fitting to interview Mariska for Women’s month.

Mariska is, indeed, a role model and an inspiration. Mariska experienced a big personal setback in 2016; but she has come back stronger and is on track again, with her visible and strong Faith in God evident in all and love of her business in the agricultural sector and irrigation as strong as ever. It’s not surprising her clients who use the Bauer range are delighted Mariska is back in the driving seat.

Where did it all start in irrigation

4

for Mariska? Mariska completed matric in 2004 and started working for an accountancy firm and studied concurrently through UNISA. Then she began work with Bauer and wasn’t keen on all the machinery initially! But that would soon change.

Interest Mariska says: “I started working as an office manager for Bauer South Africa on the 01 February 2007.

My first impressions were that I probably would not stay too long in this industry with all the huge machines and pipes. I came from an accounting back ground and had no experience in irrigation.

“As time passed I became more and more interested in the machines and all the specifications and workings. After a short time, I was appointed as the office and after sales manager for Bauer South Africa. Bauer South Africa was a subsidiary for Bauer Austria

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Group, with the head office in Austria, Europe. Bauer Austria Group are a hugely successful company that started in 1930 and are exporting more than 90% of their products all over the world! They have been a leader in irrigation technology for decades and number 1 on the world market.”

Technologically, Bauer is the world leader in irrigation systems: with more than 2.5 million hectares worldwide irrigated with its systems.

The slurry and environment sector is another main component of the turnover and represents 50% of global sales. The Bauer group currently supplies its products to around 100 countries.

In 2011, Mariska felt the time was right to establish her own company, H&M Machinery and Irrigation CC. Bauer Austria Group gave Mariska’s firm the import rights to all their products.

Mariska says it is an honour to represent Bauer. “I am very happy and proud to be part of such an amazing group of people

that produce the best quality products. All our products sell on their quality and I am proud that I can sell the best quality to my clients. Bauer is worldwide rated as top quality – so my clients don’t have a lot of needs for constant replacements and repairs, which makes me proud.”

Advantages Interestingly, elaborates Mariska, Bauer group products are used in many different sectors: including the agricultural sector, biogas and bio-ethanol plants, slaughterhouse, food industry, pulp and paper, fibres and panel board, plastic recycling, pharmaceutical industry and distilleries.

“We have many advantages in each sector that our products bring to the market. A main advantage is that Bauer group company entered in the market since 1930 and thus know the market very well. Bauer Group is a successful company and are passionate about their products.

Women in irrigation impact on business. Mariska is vocal protagonist for optimum usage and conservation of water and resources.

“Bauer uses the newest and latest technology to improve and make their product ranges outstanding. They use the finest and best quality raw material to manufacture the machines and equipment in house. Bauer group are the experts and world leaders in the market. Naturally, I am very excited about our big range of products that we can offer to the South African and African market!”

Mariska tells us this top-class range, addresses all aspects of irrigation and waste water technologies, as well as tanks and feeding equipment. H&M Machinery have imported and exported various Rainstar E, T and A series machines, diesel pumping units, slurry pumps, slurry mixers, separators, plug and play separator with helix pump system and spare parts for different types and sizes of machinery and equipment.

Rainstar Says Mariska: “We have sold Rainstar machines and centre pivots in all the different provinces in South Africa. Some of our Rainstar A, TX and T series machines are running in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Angola.

“We are looking to extend our services and products to other neighbouring countries as well.

We have irrigation machines in stock and all the spare parts. Each client has different fields’ setups and waste water requirements, so we do tailor make solutions for each of our clients. The more information we have the better chance we have to give our clients a perfect fit solution for their project,” says Mariska.

“Without water can our farmers not plant or grow food for the nation. With all these important factors we need to change our minds and our business set-up to use our water as sparingly as possible. Due to these changes, many of our irrigation machines been adjusted to make the machine as efficient as possible.

Do not waste any unnecessary water or energy. Water is life and we need to acknowledge that fact and adapt to saving as much as possible.”

Mariska Sonnekus with David Bruce from Bruce Farming in Richmond.

“Regular sales and technical training by Bauer group gives us a good product knowledge of the Bauer irrigation and slurry products and informs us as to what is available in the international market. The Bauer group is constantly busy developing and improving the current products that are available in the market.”

H&M Machinery and Irrigation’s mission is to supply high quality products to the agricultural sector and give professional service, advice and support always, to individual farms or large agricultural projects.

“I am very proud to say I have recently sold a Bauer separator, submersible pump and submersible mixer to one of my bigger clients and the items are now being installed and then we will commission it,” says Mariska, “H&M Machinery and Irrigation

offer after sales services for all our products we sell. Our commitment to our clients are the best quality products on the market at an affordable price and excellent after sales service.”

Considerations Business conditions are certainly keeping everyone on their toes.

“To have an agricultural business in South Africa is not simple. You need to take into consideration the water availability, water rights, the maize price, the wheat price, the meat prices, the exchange rate, bank finance, land claims etc: just to name a few. But I believe in God and trust in God as he is our only Saviour, and His help ensures that we endure and succeed,” says Mariska.

Factors such as water shortages around South Africa have had an

A big part of Mariska’s success in the sector, which has its challenges, is the passion she has for agriculture and a love of nature and working outdoors – there are major qualities one needs to excel in a technical field like irrigation.

“I love what I do and have a passion for the agricultural sector.

It is amazing to see how farmers and their workers are producing tons and tons of food, with the labour of their own hands. I enjoy every drive to my clients seeing the beauty of God’s nature that He has given to us. This is a priceless gift I receive every day of my life and I am so thankful! I am a nature loving and adventurous kind of lady and that’s why I love and enjoy my work in the agricultural sector so much.”

Miracles Many in the irrigation sector are aware Mariska was in a serious car accident in 2016. Her recovery is a miracle, and she is back on track two years later.

OVER 1 500 000 HA IRRIGATED

BY BAUER WORLDWIDE BAUER is the technological leader in hose reel irrigating and the number 1 on the world market.

RAINSTAR A, T AND E SERIES compact, cost effective, flexible for use on each shape of area.

H&M Machinery and Irrigation, 87 Celle Street, Glencoe, 2930, +2779 879 7332, mariska@hmmi.co.za

www.bauer-at.com

Women in Irrigation Mariska says she and two colleagues from abroad, Mr Wiesinger and Mr Olivier, were in a head-on collision near Thornyhill while en route from Port Elizabeth to Plettenberg Bay during a business trip.

“We were three in our car and the other car also had three people. All five people died on impact except me. “ Mariska says her injuries were extensive and terrible. “Four of my vertebrae broke out and turned 360 degrees leaving me paralysed in my lower body. All my organs were bleeding. My stomach muscles were torn. My nerves and tissue were torn from my head to my toes. I was not supposed to be alive. By God’s Grace only I was saved. My two colleagues who died in the accident were close friends and it was terrible to lose them in such a way. The emotional heart ache will last a life time and I will never be able to forget each small detail of that accident,” Mariska tells us sadly.

This brave young woman endured much pain and agony. “I had many operations and was in hospital for two months. Then I went to a rehabilitation centre to learn to use my legs and to walk again.

After only three weeks in the rehabilitation centre I started to walk with the walking frame and then two crutches. The doctors said it’s medically not possible, but God was my Healer.”

Mariska is now well on the road to complete healing after an immense battle. She is through the storm and into a new dawn, morning has emerged.

She shares with us: “I never stopped believing in God’s power and love for me as His child. This was an impossible situation that God took and made all things possible. It is a miracle. I then returned home and could not work full time for a period of six months, but I was still servicing and assisting my clients to the best of my ability. It’s now two years after the accident and I had more operations and have some more to come but I have Faith in God and will keep believing that God will keep restoring my health.”

Promises With 11 years in the agricultural sector, Mariska says she

promises all clients and potential clients to keep on marketing the best quality products and servicing her clients to the best of her ability.

I have worked hard to build up the Bauer group products in South Africa market and will continue to do so.”

“While I am fit and healthy I will stay in the agricultural sector and keep marketing the best quality products and servicing my clients to the best of my ability. I fought a very hard battle and am still standing, and I will continue to do so.”

This feisty, friendly and very inspiring lady has a strong Women’s Day message for women looking to enter agriculture.

Mariska has a further strong message: “For the opposition who may tell all kind of false stories like Bauer are leaving the country and no spare parts are available, I invite you to my premises to come and have a look. I have it all and am very proud of it. I sell my products on quality and not on bad mouthing other people who have suffered losses.”

Mariska is, indeed, currently looking to expand and enter into a new partnership. “I have many plans to grow and expand business and my dealer network. But I am looking for that perfect partner who will appreciate the quality products we offer the market.

“The agricultural sector is not easy, especially if you are a woman. Some men tend to think they are always better than a woman but don’t let them destroy your dreams. If you have a passion for something go out there and do it. My advice to aspirant young irrigation talent - do the SABI courses and show the men what you are made of. Don’t be afraid to live your dream.”

SABI magazine salutes and congratulates Mariska Sonnekus this Women’s Month for all her achievements and victories - we admire you Mariska and long may you be a role model and inspiring Child of God and entrepreneur in the agricultural and business market.

For more information visit: www.hmmi.co.za

H&M Machinery’s range is impressive and high-quality H&M Machinery and Irrigation sells the follow products, Mariska Sonnekus informs us: XX Bauer system 9000 pivots: consisting of Centerstar, Precision corner systems, Line star, Monostar, Centerliner, Polystar. These machines can be designed according to the client’s water requirement for his crops for any field shape and size.

“These machines are the most efficient systems under the sun,” says Mariska.

XX Bauer waste water technology: consisting of Bauer separators, submersible pumps, submersible mixers, helix pumps, tractor driven mixers, electrical mixers, tankers etc.

Separation solution for agricultural applications, food industry applications, slaughter house applications, pharmaceutical industry applications, biogas applications, distilleries etc.

XX FAN products: consisting of press screw separators, submersible pumps, submersible mixers, bedding recovery unit, dissolved air flotation unit, centrifuge classifier separator, filter oscillating separator etc.

Separation solutions for agricultural applications, biogas and bio-ethanol plants, slaughterhouse applications, food industry application, pulp and paper applications, fibres and panel board applications and plastic recycling.

XX Eckart: consisting of feeding technology. We have steel tankers, vacuum steel tankers, steel combi tankers, polyester tankers, each one with their own selection of distribution system and injection technology.

Tailor made machines for our clients and their individual needs. Our tankers have a long service life and high value stability.

H&M Machinery and Irrigation offers all the above products and the back-up service for each product as well.

XX Bauer irrigation: Hard Hose travellers’ machines called Rainstar A, T and E series machines. Pipe length start from 115 to 740 metres. Pipe diameters from 40 to 140 mm.

Water consumption from 3 to 124m³/h.

We have the perfect type and size of machine for any shape of land.

Bauer irrigation machines and ranges include complete diesel pumping units.

XX Pipe and fittings range – including the Bauer genuine couplings and pipe. (used in the agricultural sector and is the world’s favourite industrial HK coupling system.)

XX We sell PTO driven water pumps, sprinklers, booms for the Rainstar machines etc.

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Women in Irrigation

Working like a dream

Jacques from Joseph Baynesfield Estate and Mariska Sonnekus with separator, submersible pump and mixer project that Mariska commissioned recently and proudly reports is “working like a dream�.

Pierre Dormehl with his Rainstar T42, 90/300 machine.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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Scheduling

Effective irrigation scheduling - a holistic overview Part II (Dealing with Soil Variation)

By Emile Jordaan, Diandra Steenekamp & Prof. Leon van Rensburg

In the previous article we focused on providing a general framework within which effective irrigation scheduling can be understood. It was concluded that “Effective irrigation scheduling is a specific quantifiable action to apply a specific amount of water at a specific time for a specific duration at a specific site for a specific outcome, i.e. a decision regarding volume, timing, duration, placement and purpose is required” A purpose which may be defined in terms of using water productivity or water-use efficiency as the benchmark.

T

his 2nd article in the series will focus on the reality of soil variability and the subsequent implications on effective irrigation scheduling decisions. The article will consider methods how to account for this variation and propose possible strategies to guide the irrigator’s decision on how much and when to irrigate.

One way of looking at the soil is that it is just a medium which hosts the plant. Unfortunately, this is a very simplistic approach particularly if the reality of the soil conditions of most of irrigation farmers in the world is considered.

This article assumes that the average irrigator needs to contend with stratified soil profiles as well as geospatial soil variability in any field/block/land.

Variability Given the above variability both vertically and geospatially, the challenge most irrigators are facing is a decision regarding the correct volume, timing and duration for optimized irrigation within the context of a constant changing environment. As eluded

8

to earlier, a clear distinction between water productivity and water-use efficiency is also required before a decision on the correct volume, timing and duration can be made.

In laymen’s terms “more crop per drop” would offer an adequate explanation of water productivity, but in many cases, this may not imply “more NFI (net farm income) per drop” or put differently, improved water-use efficiency.

Farmers A typical question for the pivot farmer would be to balance costs associated with applying a cycle of irrigation across the entire pivot with net return realized across the entire pivot. Fundamentally

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

this implies having a good understanding of soil variability vertically and geospatially and its impact on soil water availability across the entire pivot profile at the time of the irrigation event or cycle. Fortunately, VSI (variable speed irrigation) and VRI (variable rate irrigation) technology for pivots does exist today, but by the same token and unfortunately so, deployed with questionable results.

This due to various contributing factors but specifically due to the absence of real-time plant-based response mechanisms based on spatial and vertical variation across the pivot.

This problem of geospatial and vertical variation in the soil profile is of course not limited to pivot irrigation and applies to all forms of irrigation methods, whether solid set, micro, drip, or flood irrigation.

It can be stated that if there was a mechanism to accurately account for the overall variability in readily available soil water

across the entire irrigated land/ field/block in real-time, it would for most part, circumvent the problematic nature of the irrigation scheduling decision.

Informed decision To accomplish the above, the irrigator is required to take an informed decision based on the following variables: Knowing how many statistically significant irrigation zones there are in the applicable field; Maximum water holding capacity (plant available water capacity, PAWC) of each irrigation zone in the field; Knowing how much readily available water is available to the crop across the entire field (vertically and geospatially) at the time of the irrigation; Effectiveness of the applied irrigation, i.e. how much of the water applied, reached the active rooting zone; Current depletion rate at each irrigation zone;

Scheduling Forecasted depletion rate based on an accurately forecasted ET0 rate; Whether the irrigation scheduling decision is based on a water productivity or a water-use efficiency benchmark.

First let’s focus on the inherent soil variability and how to statistically account for that.

There are several aspects of the geospatial and vertical profile variation across the field to consider: Bulk density; Organic matter; Drained upper Limit; Saturated hydraulic conductivity; 3-fraction particle size differences (soil texture); Electrical conductivity; Sodium adsorption ratio; Macronutrients (Na, Ca, Mg, K, S); Phosphates (Bray 1 or Olsen depending on soil pH); pH (KCl); Soil acidity; The key is, firstly, to identify the factors influencing variation in PAWC (plant available water capacity) in the field, and secondly to quantify the variation using laboratory analysis.

To identify the above-mentioned factors that could influence PAWC, the traditional approach was to do grid soil sampling. For example, let’s take a 100 m x 100 m grid over 100 ha. Here, one profile per ha with 3 depth intervals results in 300 soil samples.

High res maps The number of samples taken during grid sampling are thus very high and so too the costs of analysis. With the cons of grid sampling taken into consideration we can now consider another option for characterizing the variability of PAWC in soils.

A very accurate means of characterizing the spatial variability of PAWC, amongst others, and to also to create high resolution maps, is by measuring the apparent bulk electrical conductivity (ECa) of the soils.

This is a combined measurement of all soil properties that can

carry an electrical current. It is known that soil properties like, water, solutes and minerals (clay and silt particles) propagate electromagnetic waves and hence influence the bulk ECa of the soil.

With the availability of towable electromagnetic induction (EMI) soil sensors, the ECa of the soil can be measured. Depending on methodology, transect spacing, required statistical significance and the specific pricing structure of the service provider, the costs associated with EM scanning can be as much as 70% lower compared to the costs of traditional grid sampling.

For example, if the EMI sensor measures every 50 cm and with a transect spacing of 10 m which results in one reading ever 5 m².

Collected ECa data is used to identify soil sampling reference points. A minimum of 12 soil sampling points is needed to accurately characterize a 100 ha field. If each point is also sampled at 3 depths this will result in only 36 soil samples.

These sensors can either be based on suction, electrical resistance or some form of electromagnetic sensing such as the various types of capacitance probes or single level prong-type sensors. There are cutting-edge developments on this topic, but it is not within the scope of this article.

Soil water sensors are available as single level sensors, or available in an array of sensing levels in a contained sealed shaft, often referred to as a soil water probe.

Critical to the usefulness of the data generated by these sensors are: 33 Their representativeness in terms of geospatial location & profile depth in relation to the active rooting zone; 33 Installation method and soil fit; 33 Repeatability (from reading to reading); 33 Consistency (between different sensors); 33 Temperature drift compensation;

33 Soil specific calibration ability; 33 Timeliness of the data; 33 Availability of the data in an easy accessible format/platform such as a smartphone application.

Accurately surveyed soils and having a representative soil map showing PAWC across the geospatial and vertical profile will contribute largely to deciding where (geospatially), how deep and how many sensors to install in a field.

Many farmers have however been disappointed and disenchanted by the after sales backup and agronomy support available for many of these sensors, which is admittingly a huge deciding factor when deciding which brand or type to use.

Another consideration is knowing the current depletion rate of the crop at the time of the irrigation event. Representatively positioned sensors, which are able to transmit

Laboratory results of collected soil samples are subsequently used for in situ calibration of PAWC with corresponding ECa measurements at each depth and to predict and create a detailed PAWC map.

With an accurate visual representation of the variability in PAWC, the next step is the real time management of irrigation water during the season. Knowing the PAWC, one can decide on the number, placement and installation depth of soil water logging sensors. After installation comes the near real-time data feedback on the actual status of the readily available soil water across the field.

Figure 1 shows a typical statistically verified field map of plant available water across the entire field/block (courtesy of Van’s Lab & Agri PD, www.vanslab.webs.co.za) There are several soil water sensors on the market today and they vary greatly in their principle of measurement, accuracy and price.

Figure 1

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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Scheduling recorded data to an accessible platform, can contribute largely to understanding how much water the crop is removing at any given point in time. This is now assuming the sensors have been accurately calibrated for the specific site/soil type.

Figure 2 is an example of a typical stacked graph representing soil water depletion over time on several depths at the same site. (courtesy of HydraWize, www.hydrawize.com).

This “depletion rate response” can be used to calculate how much water the crop is using based on the current crop and environmental conditions (depletion ratio).

With information on the daily crop water depletion ratio, one can estimate how much water the crop is likely to use for the next week.

This is based on the expected daily ET0 rates. Knowing this will help the irrigator decide on the volume and timing of each irrigation cycle for each field/block.

Benchmark goals Lastly, it is important to always have a clear goal concerning the benchmark. Is it water productivity or water-use efficiency of the irrigated crop which drives the decisions?

Typical stacked graph - Figure 2

In conclusion the following aspects must be considered: 33 Zoning PAWC: Characterize PAWC variability of the field using EMI or grid sampling. Its characterization at this stage in time is a profitable endeavour 33 Soil water sensors: yy Sensor types yy Number of sensors, yy Length of probe and yy Placement based on PAWC 33 Weather station and forecasting models; Make use of weather station accuracy and appropriate models to forecast reference evaporation.

33 Irrigation system efficiency: 33 Measure application rates across the system at least 2-3 times during the season.

33 Know your irrigation system’s CU (coefficient of uniformity).

This aspect cannot be emphasized enough.

33 Agronomic support: This is a very important aspect to be considered when making use of cutting edge technology like the EMI and other soil water measurements.

Sensors in next article In the next article various soil water measurement sensors will be discussed in broad terms. The author(s) will compare several of the available sensor types based on principle of measurement, technical characteristics & features, manufacturer or representative agent, appropriateness or fit and official pricing (if available) at the time of the article.

Contributors • Diandra Steenekamp is with Van’s Lab soil mapping division • Prof Leon van Rensburg is with the University of the Free State’s Dept. of Soil Science.

• Emile Jordaan is Founder and MD of HydraWize, a soil water management company providing clients with maximum cost benefits associated with site specific irrigation scheduling for any irrigation system.

Visit: www.hydrawize.com. +27 83 700 8636 Email: emile@hydrawize.com

STRONG

Water

WIRELESS IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT PROVEN QUALITY UNPARALLELED WARRANTY POWERFUL REMOTE MANAGEMENT TOOLS The best line of irrigation solutions is durable, rugged, easy to use and integrated.

Zimmatic® by Lindsay is your single source to make the most of your operation. That’s our strong point. www.lindsayafricagb.com Richard Joseph +27 (0)82 853 0265 richard.joseph@lindsayafrica.co.za

Frederik Nel +27 (0)72 517 7581 frederik.nel@lindsayafrica.co.za

Lindsay Africa | 6 Talana Close, Sacks Circle, Bellville South, Cape Town | +27 (0)21 986 8900 © 2017 Lindsay. All rights reserved.

Zimmatic is a trademark of the Lindsay Corporation and its subsidiaries. www.zimmatic.com

Fresh products

Popular twin filter available from Agriplas With resource saving and user-friendly twin filter technology

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ith excellent quality and an extensive variety of filters, Amiad all-purpose plastic filters are made for a wide range of filtering applications. These high-quality filters are easy to install and maintain as well as being affordable. Farmers and irrigation specialists will welcome the news that Agriplas is reintroducing the new and improved Amiad filter range to the South African market.

Notably, as the filters have a screen option, money and space are saved with one filter instead of two being utilised.

The filters are constructed from high quality engineered-plastic materials providing excellent mechanical strength, durability and chemical resistance.

Amiad plastic filters need no tools for dismantling or removing the filter element from the filter housing for rinsing. Furthermore, you can visually monitor the status of the filter element without disrupting the water flow, with Amiad’s innovative clogging indicator, which is connected to the filter’s pressure check points.

Amiad’s plastic filters can be

What are screen filters?

Screen filters are a common type of filtration used in irrigation applications. They are relatively simple, compact and cost-effective that are available in a wide range of sizes and micron ratings, and require little onsite preparation. They work effectively over a wide range of different water qualities and flows, and are usually made of metal, plastic or synthetic cloth enclosed in a special housing.

Screen filters are cleaned by flushing them with water or removing the screen and cleaning it manually. Depending on the flush method used, some of them need to be periodically cleaned by hand to remove debris that is not removed by flushing.

Flushing methods There are several flushing methods used to clean screen filters. The simplest uses a filter flush outlet, which is opened while water is running through the filter to wash out collected debris. An enhanced variation of this is the

Features include:

• Interchangeable filter elements for a wide range of flow rates, filtration degrees and applications • Excellent mechanical strength, corrosion resistance and models for chemical durability • The 3” twin filter operates on 8 bar

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

upgraded to semi-automatic operation, by adding one of Amiad’s exclusive Brushaway or Scanaway assemblies.

Filter elements Amiad supplies a variety of filter elements for its plastic filters that cover a wide range of flowrates, filtration degrees and applications.

Screen elements The screen elements are constructed to molded plastic ribs that support a stainless steel weave-wire or weaved nylon screen for filtration degrees of between 100, 130 en 200 micron.

directed flow-flush. Wit this method (which is the most common in inexpensive filters) the flush outlet is also opened but the filter is designed so that the flush flow rushes over the screen face to remove the debris (similar to hosing down a driveway with water) This most effective method of flushing is the focused backwash method, in which the flush water is forced backwards through the screen.

This is done either with two side-by-side filters where the clean water from one is used to flush the other, or by creating a vacuuming effect by forcing water backwards through the screen to “suck” the debris from it.

Effective and efficient The most effective and efficient type of filters are automatic self-cleaning screen filters that automatically flush debris from the screen using a focused backwash. Required minimal manual maintenance and cleaning, this type of screen filter also requires a lot less water for backwashing, leading to significant time and cost savings.

• Low pressure loss • Easy to install and maintain, no tools required for rinsing • Available with excusive features for semi-automatic cleaning • Wide range of applications for the irrigation, turf, landscape and industrial markets.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit our website at www.agriplas.co.za or mail us at sales@agriplas.co.za.

Fresh products

Ons volgende uitdagende geleenthede is tans beskikbaar:

TEGNIESE ADVISEUR – BESPROEIING Wes-Kaap Die ideale kandidaat is ‘n entoesiastiese en dinamiese persoon met ‘n naskoolse kwalifikasie in besproeiingsontwerp of soortgelyke toepaslike kwalifikasie in die Landbou Siviele-omgewing, met ongeveer tien jaar ondervinding in ontwerp van landboubesproeiing stelsels.

U moet bereidwillig wees om dikwels te reis en verplaas te word, indien nodig.

Verantwoordelikhede behels hoofsaaklik: • • • • • •

Bemarking van besproeiingsprodukte Uitreik van kwotasies Tegniese advies Die ontwerp van besproeiingstelsels Opleiding in besproeiingstelsels Ondersteuning en dienslewering aan kliënte • Kunsmis agtergrond

Belangstellendes kan Sanette Carrick by 021 9177177 skakel vir meer besonderhede. U kan ook n epos stuur na sanette.carrick@agriplas.co.za

SLUITINGSDATUM: Donderdag, 30 August 2018 Kaap Agri sal slegs in gepaste gevalle onderhoude met aansoekers voer. Indien u dus vyf werksdae na die sluitingsdatum geen reaksie op u aansoek ontvang het nie moet u aanvaar dat dit onsuksesvol was.

Perfekte oplossings in besproeiingsbestuur

Doen navraag by jou naaste besproeiings handelaar oor Agriplas Produkte

www.agriplas.co.za KAAPSTAD - Hoofkantoor Posbus 696, Brackenfell 7561 Tel: +27 21 917 7177 Faks: +27 21 917 7200

GAUTENG

Posbus 11052, Randhart 1457 Tel: +27 11 908 2204 Faks: +27 11 908 5312

MPUMALANGA

Suite 63, Postnet X 11326, Nelspruit 1200 Tel: +27 13 755 3510 Faks: +27 13 755 3505

Events

Congratulations!

Controlled Irrigation celebrates 50th Anniversary

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enowned landscape irrigation company Controlled Irrigation recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary with black tie events in Johannesburg and Somerset West.

Controlled Irrigation began on 4 July 1968 as an installation company in Gauteng, growing into a service and supply company with branches nationwide. And so, began a proud history.

By 1973 clients included Eskom, Johannesburg City Council, Anglo American, RAU university, Pretoria Technikon and several golf courses. Their first supply client was Martin Moralee from Country Line Landscape and Irrigation, who still continues to purchase from the firm.

Danie van Rooyen of Danvons Landscaping, one of their first clients, also continues to support the company.

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Controlled Irrigation has an impressive portfolio of projects, including: ]] Irrigation design and supply of the majority of the 2010 Soccer World Cup Stadiums. ]] Irrigation design and supply of new golf course developments nationally. ]] Recently awarded Projects include irrigation supply for West Lake Golf Course, Silver Lakes Golf Course, Mont Choisy Golf Course (Mauritius), Mafulira Golf Course (Zambia), Fancourt Golf Course upgrades (George), Serengeti Golf Course nine hole revamp.

Ethics Controlled Irrigation is an excellent role model of a family business – its success is firmly based on family values and ethics, instilled by the founders John and Elaine McKenzie.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Two brothers Andrew and Duncan McKenzie are directors with six branch managers’ namely, Stephen Perry; James Friend; Tertius van Staden; Vincent Badenhorst; Marcellus van Staden; Pierre de Schmidt and an export manager Gareth Manson.

National buyer is Brian Pillai and national accountant is Noelene Naidoo, with many dedicated employees operating the cogs of the company.

Controlled footprint in subSaharan countries. Technological enhancements to enhance customer service are on the horizon, with the development of a central computer system to allow verification and online ordering. With this, stockholding is significantly increased.

Ongoing training of Controlled’s staff and clients under the wing of inhouse training officer Dan Pillay is also envisaged.

Success factors, say the team, include: “Good quality products, longstanding relationships with our customers, drive and innovation of the team of 138 staff members (28% of employees have been with the company between 10 to 40 years).”

Moreover, Controlled Irrigation emphasises that conservation of water is a major focus going into the future, and Controlled Irrigation aim to be at the forefront of this.

Future Vision for the future, say the directors, is expansion of ranges as well as growth of the

Look up Controlled Irrigation on Facebook for more photos of the 50th Anniversary.

Events

Thank you from Controlled Irrigation “We express our heartfelt appreciation to all those who attended our celebrations.

Those who travelled from oversees namely; Stan Hendley and David Beddingfeld from Nelson Irrigation Corporation in the USA, Alex Amoreti from SAB in Italy, Eduardo Franco, Andre’ Matos, Paula Matos, Rui Gomes from Plimat in Portugal and Brett Hart from Rain Bird USA.

“Thank you to our customers who continue to support us and our dedicated staff who are an integral part of our success.”

our mother Elaine McKenzie and our wives Linda and Shereen McKenzie for their constant love and support.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to Linda McKenzie, for co ordinating and planning both events, so successfully.

“Thank you to Andre M Photography, The Perfect Tone Music, The Love Knot Décor, Buitengeluk and Erinvale Golf Course for the venues.“

“Andrew and Duncan McKenzie would like to express their thanks and gratitude to

288, 0961, 765 and 1049 (thereSome is a pic milestones of an elderly lady who is the original founder we can include)– thedeveloped Cape pics we can include Sabi member), 2151 guys • Controlled Irrigation was (the instrumental quality products 496 namely(a Micro Markcouncil • Controlled Irrigation in forming of the Professional Holdings with their Full Flow and from an installation company, from Microjet – don’t know if you recognise with his big beard), 2166 and then any others.

Irrigation Body namely The Turf Emjay fittings, Nelson Irrigation having installed irrigation to over whichgood later to Corporation Equipment, Rainbird Golf andIrrigation golf courses to aare designthe and directors the Also50 1538 they two McKenzie brothers wives,Association probably changed to the Landscape Irrigation and Rainbird Turf, SAB Compression supply wholesaler. get in somewhere!

Association. The original training Fittings, Plimat PVC Fittings, Automat • Inthem 1978 Andrew McKenzie, at age

• •

17, took the decision to distribute full flow and Emjay fittings from Micro Mouldings,) helping the company become an irrigation wholesaler.

Achievement of a national distribution footprint Taking on agencies with superior

brass and plastic impact sprinklers, RKD Pivots, Heibei brass and PVC valves, Feca travelling sprinklers, Torq clamps and Pedrollo pumps.

•

and certification was done by the founder of Controlled Irrigation John McKenzie and continued through Duncan McKenzie.

Duncan McKenzie was instrumental in forming a Landscape Irrigation division at SABI. SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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How to ...

How to ...

create a waterwise irrigation system The weather patterns in Southern Africa have changed, leading to a whole new set of rules regarding water consumption. Rapid urbanization is adding even more pressure, resulting in the need to question our traditional patterns of water usage, especially when it comes to garden irrigation. This editorial looks at how to create a ‘waterwise’ garden irrigation system. - by Mike de Villiers INTRODUCTION The drought conditions in many regions in South Africa have led to the realization that every water user has had to change their relationship with water. However, in our naturally arid regions, water scarcity is a fact of life and people have had to rely on alternative sources of water, such as boreholes. In all of our larger cities, rapid urbanization has greatly increased water demand, which has added an additional challenge to the effects of global warming. The efficient use of water has therefore become an imperative, especially when it comes to garden irrigation systems, which represent a significant portion of our domestic water consumption. This editorial provides a set of guidelines aimed at making your garden irrigation system ‘waterwise’. Needless to say, your choice of plants and shrubs also needs to be ‘waterwise’. Refer to an earlier “How to” editorial on this subject.

WATERWISE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS Waterwise irrigation systems may be defined as installed systems that use the least amount of water to create a sustainable garden. A number of basic principles have been developed that need to be considered in the design and installation of these systems. The following information has been based on the Water Wise Watering section of the Rand Water website and is gratefully acknowledged.

1.0 WATER ACCORDING TO YOUR SOIL TYPE To correctly identify your soil type may require consultation with either a soils expert, an irrigation designer or your local nursery, however most gardeners will have a good idea of their soil type through hard experience. The frequency and duration of watering, known as Irrigation scheduling, needs to suit your plant choices as well as the soil type in your garden.

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Clay soils retain water, so apply water slowly, in short bursts and less frequently. This also avoids run-off, which represents wasted water. Sandy soils absorb water quickly, so increase the flow rate and water more often. Add organic matter or compost to increase the soil-water retention time. Loamy soils provide the ideal conditions for plants through water retention in the root zone and require watering less frequently than sandy soils. Adding mulch around plants and in beds in all soil types reduces evaporation and retains water where it is needed most.

How to ...

Avoid losing water through run-off by creating shallow basins around the base of trees and shrubs and create terraces on slopes. Also position your sprinklers to avoid watering of sidewalks and driveways. Increase drought resistance by encouraging deeper root growth through soaking the beds, but less frequently, to avoid over-watering. When planting a tree, insert a pipe alongside the tree to the depth of root zone and water into this pipe.

The most important objective of your watering schedule is to apply water to the root zone of the plants. The depth of the root zone differs: 20cm for lawns, vegetables and herbs and 60cm for trees and shrubs. Only water again when the top 8 to 10cm has dried out. For automated irrigation systems, it is essential to consult an irrigation designer in order to set-up the correct watering schedule to achieve water use efficiency, the main objective of a waterwise garden. Water restrictions are in operation in many municipalities in the country. Ensure therefore that your irrigation system and watering schedule is compliant with the current level of restrictions. Note that piped irrigation systems are not permitted in many water- stressed areas.

2.0 PLAN YOUR GARDEN LAYOUT CORRECTLY

Group plants with similar water needs together in order to create hydro zones. This allows you to irrigate each zone according to its needs for optimum growth and yet being waterwise. Make the high water-use zone the smallest and positioned as a focal feature of the garden. The medium water use zone may be larger and positioned further away from the house.

The low water use zone should be the largest and once established, it should be able to survive without an irrigation system, although manual watering may be required from time to time. The correct use of hydro zones may result in water savings of between 30 and 80%.

3.0 WATER YOUR GARDEN AT THE CORRECT TIME Water scheduling is extremely important in waterwise gardening. One must take into account the water needs of your plants according to both the season as well as the time of day. Plants are generally dormant in winter and require minimal water to survive. The optimum time for watering is early morning or late afternoon when evaporation is at its least. Needless to say, evaporation is highest in the summer months and the least in the cooler months, however South Africa has both winter and summer rainfall regions which also have to be considered. For example, change the watering times to the warmer hours during winter in order to prevent frost damage to the leaves of plants or the soil freezing up. Watering before dawn will avoid outbreaks of mildew, if this is a problem. Also avoid watering on windy days in order to minimize evaporation, however the correct choice of irrigation system will greatly reduce these types of water losses. The use of moisture sensors in conjunction with automated irrigation systems are essential to obtain the correct scheduling.

4.0 INSTALL THE CORRECT IRRIGATION SYSTEM

Create hydro zones

This editorial is focused on creating a waterwise garden irrigation system, however the gardener is faced with a number of different irrigation systems, each with its own application and not all of them suited to waterwise gardening. These include in-line and on-line drippers, impact sprinklers, pop-up sprinklers and riser pipes as well as micro-sprayers. It is therefore highly recommended that advice is sought before selecting any one of these systems, as many systems are not considered water-wise and are designed for specific crops.

DRIP IRRIGATION

Drip irrigation is the most efficient system for waterwise gardening and is suitable for all types of plants, trees and shrubs, except seedlings. Water passes through an in-line emitter which has a specifically designed flow pattern to control the amount of water being delivered. In-line dripper line, as the pipe is called, is specified in terms of the pipe diameter and the amount of water being supplied by the emitter as well as the spacing of emitters. On-line emitters are also available and ideal for DIY installation. These are fitted on the pipe using a hole punch, available from your irrigation shop. Most drip systems are pressure compensated, which means that they will supply the same amount of water through each emitter along the length of the pipe.

Use mulch to lower evaporation

Avoid watering your paving

The big advantage of the dripper concept is that water is supplied directly to the base of the plant. In fact, directly to the root zone, without obstruction form the plant’s leaves as it grows. This achieves minimal water losses. The drippers (emitters) are evenly spaced and the pipe can be snaked across the bed, on the surface, to be close to the plants. Water moves through the soil by capillary action, radiating outwards from its source. These circular wet zones join together in the soil to supply the root zones with adequate water. Over-watering creates a wet zone below the root zone, which represents wasted water. Advice from an Irrigation designer is therefore highly recommended in order to select the correct specification of dripper line in terms of the emitter delivery rate, emitter spacing and pipe sizing. One of the advantages of drip irrigation systems is that they operate at relatively low pressure, therefore a pressure reducing valve may have to be installed on the connecting pipe to the system. An in-line filter is also recommended.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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How to ...

HOW TO INSTALL ON-LINE DRIP EMITTERS

Dripper lines are supplied with in-line emitters and are punched to create a small hole in the pipe wall to allow the water to drip out of the pipe. On-line emitters, also known as button drippers, are fitted to the external wall of the pipe and operate in the same way. They are generally available in various flow rates, being 2, 4 or 8 LPH (litres per hour) and are colour coded. Bear in mind that there are a number of manufacturers of irrigation equipment, each with their own design and colour coding

Step 4: Lay the pipe in the beds and connect up to the water source `` The pipe may be laid on the surface and snaked around within the bed to improve coverage

Step 1: Plan the layout of the pipe runs and consult with irrigation specialists to determine the pipe size, the capacity of the drippers and the spacing `` Remember that the different hydro zones will require different emitter flow rates according to the volume of water needed `` Pre-determine the watering schedule as it has a bearing on the flow rate of the emitters, the soil type and the type of plants being watered Step 2: Gather all the materials required `` On-line button drippers (emitters) of the correct delivery, being 2,4 or 8 litres per hour `` The correct length and diameter of low density polyethylene pipe `` Punching tool to fit the dripper to the pipe `` Pressure reducing valve and in-line filter (if required)

Step3: Mark out the emitter spacing and punch the holes

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Step 5: Flower pots may also be watered with button drippers `` Lay the feeder pipe, select the position and then punch a hole in the pipe and fit a micro-tube connector `` Fit the button dripper to the end of the pre-cut micro tube and fit the assembly to the connector on the pipe `` Position the dripper in the flower pot, near the stem of the plant

Women in the Green industry

Nursery entrepreneur Renshia is a winner As her Growbox grows and grows

Nursery owner and social entrepreneur Renshia Manuel…growing seedlings and plants and knowledge, from technical skills to public speaking.

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enshia Manuel grew up in Eerste River and, after high school, studied motor mechanics for two years.

Says Manuel: “My mom was a single working parent and her car wasn’t reliable so I thought this would a great way to help her.

“After getting married, I moved to Hanover Park and worked as a librarian at a primary school for some years. Unfortunately, the school experienced financial problems and could no longer afford me,” As Manuel was unemployed she was struggling to feed four children and the only solution was to grow vegetables.

“I then had the idea of starting a wholesale plant nursery within Hanover Park.”

Then came her breakthrough when she entered and won third prize in #YouthStartCT, Cape Town’s youth entrepreneurship challenge #YouthStartCT which offered weekly workshops.

“I started in the top 100 and made it all the way to third place and received a prize of R5 000.

I used this money to register my company and sort out all the tax and government requirements.

I registered as a vendor with the City of Cape Town and the Department of Agriculture and bought my first stock, including pots and compost, to start my company, Growbox in my back yard,” says Manuel.

Growbox is holistic

seedlings for farms, NGOs and the government.

Enthuses Manuel: “We also supply to people who have limited space the opportunity to grow vegetables in our Growbox.

Our Growboxes are customised to meet our clients’ needs and come with the growth medium, as well as seedlings. We also offer corporate-sponsored food-gardening workshops in disadvantaged communities and teach households how to grow food in limited spaces.

“What sets us apart as a company is that we offer the complete package. It’s a hassle-free vegetable box. Our customers tell us what vegetable or herb plants they want and what size the box must be, then we deliver the fully-stocked box. Our holistic programme starts households on the path to food growing and teaches people how to grow vegetables sustainably and how to use food waste.

Technical know-how biggest challenge Says Manuel: “I believe that entrepreneurs need steadfastness, perseverance and the ability to work hard. Without these qualities, you won’t be able to overcome the inevitable setbacks and failures. For me, the biggest challenge when I started out was the lack of technical know-how.

And how her Growbox has grown.

Growbox is primarily a social enterprise; growing

“I thought it would be easy but it turns out that Google can’t teach you everything. I gained most of

my technical knowledge through trial and error. (It would have been very helpful if I’d had a go-to person to give me advice.)

Access to finance was also a challenge. I was very fortunate to receive funding from Netafim who also gave me support and linked me to farmers for technical support and mentorship.”

Manuel also did speaking course.

a

public

“In 2017 I entered ENGEN Pitch & Polish with the goal of boosting my confidence. Public speaking is one of my worst fears and is an area my mentor has encouraged me to work on. I’ve learned to be more assertive and that I really need to stick to my goals. (I applied much of what I learned when I did a funding proposal to Netafim.)”

Netafim’s drip Manuel says that due to the water crises in the Western Cape she had to make significant changes to the amount of water utilised in her enterprise.

“We cannot use potable water for irrigation and I had to get water tanks in order to store water and then had to source non-potable water from nearby farms. I also used effluent water from the water treatment plant in Athlone.

“As the nursery was still in my back yard I had to install additional shade netting in order to conserve water and used a 5Litre pressure sprayer to manually irrigate the seedlings on a daily basis. For the plants in the bags I used mulching in order to retain water for longer.”

On Mandela Day Growbox moved into great new premises which will allow the company to expand and meet the increased demand.

WellPoint At their new premises Manuel says they will use WellPoint in order to access water – “luckily for us the new property is located on a high-water table so it’s not necessary to dig deep to access water. “ “We will also be using the expertise and supplies of Netafim who will install the drip irrigation system for the bagged plants.

Inside the tunnels they will install a sprinkler system and an underground gutter system that would enable us to runoff water inside the tunnels. This water will then be pushed back into the water tanks to be used again.”

Manuel is a strong protagonist of water conservation: “In our workshops for household food gardening, we advocate water conservation. Most people think that in order to grow your own food you need to use excessive amounts of water - but that is not really the case. It just requires smart gardening techniques.

“Simple things like catching rain water or recycling household water can make a huge impact.

Mulching, shading and growing drought tolerant crops can also conserve a lot of water. But most of all, you have to change the public’s mindset. If you are constantly thinking water wise then it will go a long way to conserve water for the next generation,” says Manuel.”

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Water

Water savings for Cape Town’s One&Only

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ewTreat says it has completed the installation of a waste water treatment plant at the One&Only Cape Town that will result in a 40kl saving in municipal water per day.

This translates to a phenomenal R114 000 per month reduction in water costs for the well-known V&A Waterfront hotel.

Along with numerous water-saving measures already implemented at the One&Only Resort in Cape Town, the installation of

Above Ground HDPE Waste Water Treatment Plants has been completed by SewTreat.

The initial Phase 1 plant will remove 40kl of sewage per day from the hotel’s plumbing system and purify it to product water standards. The purified water will

then be used in the hotel’s cooling towers. This will save the hotel 40kl per day in potable municipaltreated water previously utilised to run the cooling towers.

While the Cape is having good rainfall in this season, the long term financial implications of the drought for the tourism industry in Cape Town are undeniable.

“Looking at the current costs of municipal water and sewage treatment in Cape Town versus the savings that SewTreat’s plant will achieve for the One&Only, it is clear that recycling waste water is an affordable and viable way for hotels in this region to save both water and money.”

Saving of over R1m “The current cost of potable water from the Cape Town Metro is R57 per 1000 litres and the cost of sewage disposal is R38 per litres.

In One&Only’s case, because the first plant recycles 40kl of sewage waste per day, the hotel no longer has a need to pay for 40kl of water or for the sewage discharge. This can be calculated as a total saving of R3800 per day or R114 000 per month. Annually they save R1, 368 million from Phase 1 alone,” Coetzer explains.

Phase 2 involves the installation of a second plant that will be used to treat sewage to potable standards for re-use in swimming pools, general cleaning, washing machines and the flushing of toilets.

“Phase two will see an additional 80kl saving for the hotel per day.

Taking into account the total saving offered by both plants, this

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translates to an incredible annual saving of R4, 104 million. This means that the One&Only will see a full return on investment for the project in just eight months,” Coetzer explains.

After both phases are complete and operational, One&Only Cape Town will have cut potable water usage from 220kl per day, to just 40kl per day being drawn from municipal lines. This is just 15% of the original quantity of water that they previously had to draw from Cape Town Metro. According to Coetzer, this remaining 15% will cover the hotel’s water needs for potable water to be used for drinking water, food preparation and showers. All other water requirements such as cooling tower water, pool filling, irrigation, car washes, general cleaning and laundry will be met through recycling.

Installation In addition to the water and cost saving advantages, the One&Only also benefited from the quick and easy installation of this type of plant. SewTreat’s HDPE Above Ground treatment plants are easy to install due to the minimal civil works required while maintenance and operation of the system are effortless due to its being an above ground system. The timeframe for complete installation of both phases from SewTreat’s initial consultation with the hotel’s management to being installed and completely operational was just 8 weeks.

“The One&Only had previously considered desalination.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Water

But it proved to be three times more expensive than the SewTreat plant in terms of total installation costs, on-going maintenance and operation and power usage.

In addition to this it would have taken four times longer to install,” says Coetzer.

Coetzer says that the additional benefits for the One&Only include power usage and monthly operational costs of the plants.

“The total power consumption of SewTreat’s plants is a mere 6kw, which is comparable to the power consumption of three swimming pool pumps. Then, the monthly consumable cost of the SewTreat system is just R2 500 per month.”

As part of the installation, SewTreat included an air scrubbing system to ensure that there are absolutely no odour emissions from the plant – a must for a prestigious hotel such as the One&Only according to Coetzer. He goes on to say that they are thrilled to be partnering with the hotel in the future.

“SewTreat will also be involved in the design and implementation of ‘Liveview’ platforms that the hotel wants to install so that the water savings can be tracked in real time.

To further prove our commitment to helping them realise their water saving goals we have offered the One&Only a 100% money back guarantee should the plant not perform as per design efficiency.”

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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SABI COMPANY MEMBERS

SABI COMPANY MEMBER

AquaHaus PRECISION IRRIGATION

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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SABI MAATSKAPPYLEDE

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

SABI MAATSKAPPYLEDE

SABI COMPANY MEMBERS

SABI COMPANY MEMBER

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MECHANISED IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

BUILT TO IRRIGATE AFRICA

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Environment

Decision on Karoo shale gas expected soon

O

n 11 July 2018 the Department of Mineral Resources published a notice in the Eastern Cape Provincial Gazette calling on all parties to submit written representations thereon to the Petroleum Agency of South Africa (PASA). These parties refer to those whose rights may materially and adversely be affected by the Department’s pending decision on the granting of exploration rights for shale gas to Shell, Bundu and Falcon in the Karoo, says Agri SA. “Although the threat of shale gas development in the Karoo appeared to be dissipating with Shell’s announcement earlier this year that it would scaling down its operations regarding shale gas exploration in in South Africa, the matter remains very much alive, as is seen by government’s most recent notice”, says Janse Rabie, Agri SA’s head of natural resources.

“Neither Shell, Bundu or Falcon actually withdrew their applications for exploration rights for shale gas in the Karoo and those applications still remain pending. Once exploration rights are granted, it opens the door to full-scale production rights automatically being granted in due course.”

Agri SA has consistently maintained that in the absence

of sufficient answers by both petro-chemical companies and government as to the availability of sufficient water to support shale gas exploration and production, and adequate answers as to what would be done with contaminated water resulting therefrom, it cannot support shale gas development in the Karoo or elsewhere in South Africa.

Persons who previously forwarded comments or objections or who made written representations on Shell, Bundu and Falcon’s applications for exploration rights in the Karoo in terms of section 10 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 28 of 2002 (MPRDA), are advised in terms of the notice not to do so again, as their comments will be taken into consideration.

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Equipment

Global compact earthmoving brand refocuses in the local market

Gehl skidsteers, tracked skidsteer loaders, articulated loaders and TLBs are available in South Africa through ELB Equipment

E

LB Equipment has relaunched an exciting range of equipment including skidsteers, articulated loaders and BHL’s from one of the world’s leading compact equipment manufacturers.

American-made Gehl machines are a well-known brand across the globe where the brand is known for its compact machines that deliver powerful performance in a rugged and reliable package that is versatile enough to be used across almost all industries.

Its recent relaunch at Nampo Harvest served to underline the brand’s involvement and knowledge of diverse industries such as the agricultural and construction industries, as well as the industrial sector.

manufacturer’s parent company.

The Gehl range is a large and well-known one throughout the world and will be in the safest of hands here in South Africa with ELB Equipment. ELB Equipment have been distributing Mustang Skid steers for 10 years now and will convert to the manufacturer’s Gehl brand which is the same product manufactured under a different brand name. This means that ELB will continue to support and provide backup for the Mustang population in the market.

ELB’s business development manager, Danie Gerber, says the range complements the distributor’s best-of-breed philosophy for world-beating products which have track records to prove their quality and with high levels of service and aftermarket support.

“With 85 000 visitors to this year’s harvest day we used the opportunity to show-case this premium brand to the agricultural industry. We will follow this up with similar events in the construction and industrial industries and will communicate and demonstrate products to all our customers in the months to come,” says Danie.

Global acquisition “The product range arises from the procurement internationally of the Terex Construction brand by the

Not surprising, considering that the country’s premium-brand machines are competitively priced and have an additional reputation for having among the lowest costs-of-ownership in the international industry.

Local market Gehl skidsteers, tracked skidsteers, loaders and BHL’s are designed to be robust, reliable, easy-to-operate and simple to maintain. They represent excellent value with a wide range of variations available across the

entire range of machines.

“The relaunch of Gehl into the marketplace is one of the most exciting entries into the local market and represents one of the most anticipated re-entries of a premium brand into the local earthmoving construction and agriculture markets in many years.

Supported by one of the country foremost equipment suppliers, it is sure to gain the attention of fleet owners across the entire southern African region,” concludes Danie.

S A W Africa knowledge product success

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Nampo has already paid dividends with a number of would-be customers already interested in machines.

Dealer enquiries welcome

ELB Equipment’s Ernest Moremedi, Dean Logan, Rhett O’Neill and Keon Kardolus at the launch of the new Gehl compact equipment brand at Nampo Harvest Day

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Motors

27

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Motoring

Hilux Dakar

wanneer taai taai-erder word When the Tough get Tougher-er

D

ie manier waarop die Toyota Hilux dinge oorheers, het hom ietwat van ’n kultusstatus gegee, wat ’n benydenswaardige reputasie vir dié Japannese bakkie op wêreldwye skaal gevestig het. Sy deurslaggewende eienskappe is en bly sy inherente sterkte, duursaamheid en vermoë. In Toyota-taal verwys die afkorting ‘QDR’ na gehalte, duursaamheid en betroubaarheid – en hierdie drie terme het die globale Hilux-bemarkingsmantra inderdaad beklemtoon.

The Toyota Hilux’s exploits have achieved something of a cult status, establishing an enviable reputation for the Japanese pick-up on a global scale. The resounding characteristic remains its inherent strength, durability

and capability. In Toyota speak the acronym ‘QDR’ refers to Quality, Durability and Reliability – and indeed these three terms have come to underpin the global Hilux marketing mantra.

One arena where ‘QDR’ makes an unquestionable contribution, is the fabled Dakar off-road race.

Torturous and wildly varying conditions make the now South American-hosted event the ultimate test of man and machine.

The South African built Hilux offroad race vehicles have amassed four podiums, not only showcasing Hilux on a world stage, but creating a sense of pride and patriotism for the humble SouthAfrican built ‘bakkie’.

In celebration of this achievement, Toyota South Africa is proud to announce the introduction of a limited edition model aptly named Hilux Dakar.

The Dakar suffix is reserved for the pinnacle of Hilux variants and therefore the model presents a unique product offering befitting the revered label.

New Face, New Attitude The Dakar limited edition sports an all-new face, featuring a more prominent trapezoidal grille and ‘squared-off’ design.

The central focal point is the large gloss-black-honeycomb grille, which incorporates two horizontal sections – creating an image of strength. The inner grille area is bordered by a metallic grey surround with three-dimensional appearance, which blends into the LED headlamps. A matching gloss-black accent strip on the bonnet and stylised Dakar insignia attached to the grille, complete the design.

The lower bumper also features a large honeycomb mesh pattern, extending to the sides of the vehicle, creating a sense of width. The new bumper design additionally includes intersecting

28

horizontal and vertical fog lamp garnishes decked out in matching gloss black. The fog lamps themselves utilise LED elements for superb illumination. A metallic grey ‘skid plate’ provides the finishing touch to the bold new front facia.

Rugged Exterior, Refined Interior In addition, the exterior sports a number of distinctive touches such as gloss-black treatment for the door handles and powerretractable side mirrors. The rear bumper is fashioned in grey, to tie in with the front design.

In a world of contrasts and oxymoron’s, the Hilux Dakar limited edition boasts an enveloping interior to offset the rugged exterior treatment.

The interior features all-black treatment, with a black roof headliner (versus light grey on normal Raider), metallic black trim accent panels (silver on Raider) and black leather upholstery with light grey contrast stitching (fabric on Raider) - creating a sporty, premium space for occupants.

The infotainment system is upgraded to include Satellite Navigation, whilst the standard Bluetooth, USB and CD/ DVD playback functionality is retained. The touch-screen system also includes an onboard trip computer and customisable home screen.

New Instruments, New Look Dakar models receive a unique instrument cluster, using whitefaced gauges with orange needle pointers and bespoke graphics, to distinguish the Dakar from its normal brethren.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Motoring The LCD multi-information display also features a bespoke start-up graphic showing off the Dakar model’s exterior façade.

Proven Mechanicals, Proven Prowess All Dakar models are based on Raider models and therefore employ either the proven 2.8 GD-6 powertrain or 4.0-litre V6 (double-cab only). The 2.8-litre, four cylinder turbo-diesel engine produces 130 kW and 420 Nm in manual transmission guise.

Automatic transmission-equipped variants receive a boost to 450 Nm. The V6 variant delivers a throaty 175 kW and 376 Nm. An outstanding feature of the 2.8 GD-6 diesel engine is the combination of response, torque delivery and fuel efficiency.

Both Eco – and Power modes are provided, which alter the powertrain’s character to either enhance fuel efficiency or boost acceleration.

Both rear-wheel and switch-onthe-fly four-wheel drive transaxles are offered. Each available in either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission

configuration – creating a matrix of four 2.8 GD-6 variants.

The manual gearbox includes a selectable iMT function (intelligent Manual Transmission), which provides rev-matching downshift and hesitation-free upshift functionality. The iMT feature also helps prevent accidental stalling of the engine.

Fuel consumption varies between 7.6 and 8.5 litres per 100 kilometers dependent on drivetrain configuration. CO2 figures range from 199 to 224 g/km.

Limited Colours, Unlimited Expression The Dakar limited edition is restricted to four exterior colours – including an all-new Inferno Orange Metallic. Buyers have a choice between Glacier White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey Metallic and Inferno Metallic exterior hues.

White, Silver and Orange models utilise black Dakar decals on the front doors and rear tailgate, whilst Graphite Grey units receive contrasting silver decals.

Two Cabs, Multiple Choices Buyers can choose between either Xtra - or Double Cab configurations.

Xtra Cab Hilux XC 2.8GD6 Raised Body Dakar MT Hilux XC 2.8GD6 Raised Body Dakar AT Hilux XC 2.8GD6 4X4 Dakar MT Hilux XC 2.8GD6 4X4 Dakar AT Double Cab Hilux DC 2.8GD6 Raised Body Dakar MT Hilux DC 2.8GD6 Raised Body Dakar AT Hilux DC 2.8GD6 4X4 Dakar MT Hilux DC 2.8GD6 4X4 Dakar AT Hilux DC 4.0 V6 4X4 Dakar AT

Price R 470 300 R 488 300 R 535 600 R 553 800 R 535 000 R 553 400 R 601 100 R 621 000 R 662 700

Service Plan, Warranty Period As a commitment to excellent customer service, Toyota has increased the service plan period on 2.8 GD-6 models from 5-year/90 000 kilometres to 9 services/90 000 kilometres, whilst the 4.0 V6 model receives an increase to a 6 services/90 000 kilometre period (previously 5 years).

The Warranty period is 3-year/100 000 kilometres and applies across the Hilux range.

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Water

Partnerships and sustainability

Mokopane community get

A human right

access to potable water

W

ith various areas of the country experiencing drought, South Africans have become aware of the fact that we live in a semi-arid country, where water needs to be sparingly used.

However, while suburbanites in the cities may have had to Anglo American Platinum’s adapt to less flushing, quick motivation for this project is showers and saving rainwater driven by the fact that water as the “new normal”, many and sanitation is one of the rural communities in South basic human rights according Africa experience ongoing to the United Nations and the water shortages as a daily South African Constitution. Lack hardship. The shortages of potable water and the of access to this basic right of struggle for clean drinking water and sanitation and its and domestic water are devastating impact is felt amongst part of daily life for many the poor, especially during South Africans living droughts. In drought-ravaged in rural areas.

parts of the country, the poor get to spend in excess of a third of their disposal income on portable water.

The Mokopane community in Mokopane, Limpopo “To cap it all, we still have more has experienced than 7% of our rural communities water challenges drawing water from rivers, stagnant for more than a water bodies and untreated decade. The residents boreholes. It is against this of Mogalakwena background that this project was Municipality in Limpopo formulated. The mine engages have been at the

with communities and government to identify development projects to be supported. Then, prioritises those projects that would have high impact and benefits for the majority of the people in the community. Water is indeed a number one development priority in all of our Social & Labour Plans in the Limpopo area,” Lebang Gaobepe senior social performance manager for Mogalakwena Mine is the spokesperson.

30

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

receiving end of a water crisis with access to clean drinkable water a daily struggle.

However, things are changing.

Several years ago, Anglo American Platinum began trucking in water to the 42 villages to lessen the effects of water scarcity. Then, around 18 months ago, Anglo American Platinum undertook a bold, and more long-term solution: to provide water for more than 70 000 people living in the 42 villages of Mapela.

80 000 litres per day The company aims to do this by drilling and maintaining boreholes in the villages for the next 10 years to ensure that the villages of Mapela have access to free and clean water. The first village to benefit in this area is Scheming village with the Hall Core Water Project which delivers 80 000 litres per day to

over 2000 village dwellers. This means the days of sharing dirty river water with animals or paying huge amounts of money for drinkable water are over.

Anglo American Platinum has partnered with the Mapela Traditional Authority, the Mogalakwena Municipality and the Mapela Task Team and Hall Core Water Mapela - a newlyformed company co-owned by the community to sustainably increase water supply in the area.

The project will be implemented in all the 42 villages and at least 88 people will be permanently employed for the next 10 years including artisans, security personnel and a site manager, say the parties. “This project is about more than just water, it is also about improving the lives of the people living in these villages through job opportunities and skills development,” according to Lebang Gaobepe senior social performance manager for Mogalakwena Mine.

Fresh products

Solar inverters for pumps

assembly, stockholdings and technical support are on a par with pristine global standards.

Johannesburg

B

MG’s Motoline solar inverters for water pumps have been designed for dependable use in agricultural irrigation and water feed systems, for rural domestic and municipal water supply, as well as for ponds and dams.

“All solar powered systems require a solar inverter to convert direct current (DC) generated by solar panels or other alternative sources, into alternating current (AC) for use in industrial, commercial and residential applications,” explains Mick Baugh, electronics sales manager, BMG’s electromechanical division.

“BMG’s Motoline P19000-S Solar series inverters for photovoltaic (PV) water pumps have integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, which support accurate tracking of the PV output, to ensure the best possible power output is achieved.

High performance

“Other high performance features of these solar inverters include dry-run protection, tank water level

control and a dual AC and DC supply mode. This series supports AC input connectivity, in addition to the DC input from a PV system, allowing the AC input to feed the drive when the PV supply is limited.

A clear LED display indicates the real-time situation and system parameters and the RS485 remote control system enhances the flexibility of the system.”

Motoline P19000 Solar inverters have built-in protection and diagnostic mechanisms to provide full electronic protection to the motor and pump system, minimising maintenance requirements and extending the service life of the system.

BMG has made a substantial investment at its BMG World facility in Johannesburg, to ensure

Functional operations at BMG World include a 308 000 m³ product warehouse and distribution centre for the company’s entire product range of more than 300 000 line items and a manufacturing centre and general engineering workshop.

BMG’s Motoline solar inverters for water pumps

There are also specialist assembly and repair workshops for drives, conveyors, hydraulics and pneumatics, as well as electric motors, electronics, gaskets, lubrication systems and filtration.

This facility enables BMG to continue to provide high levels of operating efficiency and service delivery, in line with the continued growth of the business.

A team of technicians, with extensive experience in gearing, offers a technical advisory and support service, tailored to meet the precise specifications of contractors, designers and the end-user.

BMG’s Motoline P19000 Solar series inverters for photovoltaic (PV) water pumps have integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, which support accurate tracking of the PV output, to ensure the best possible power output is achieved.

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Awards

Cofamosa irrigation PPP in agri sector in Mozambique

Booker Tate’s entry in the ‘International Collaborative Project’ category of the 2018 British Expertise International (BEI) Awards, for designing this PPP framework initiative, was highly commended.

Bob Merry holds the certificate, on behalf of the Booker Tate team, at the BEI Awards ceremony in London recently.

Gets Brit Award

B

ooker Tate’s entry in the ‘International Collaborative Project’ category of the 2018 British Expertise International (BEI) Awards, for designing a Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework initiative in the agricultural sector of Mozambique, was ‘Highly Commended’ at an event in London recently.

Booker Tate Limited - in association with a Mozambican firm, Leadership Business Consulting (LBC) - was engaged as consultant to design a PPP model for the financing and implementation of the Cofamosa Irrigation Project.

This initiative in the agricultural sector of Mozambique, is expected to bring significant economic and social benefits to the Magude and Moamba Districts of Maputo Province.

Cofamosa Irrigation Project, which is a planned greenfield 10 000-hectare irrigated sugarcane development project, with 1 000 hectares of food security production, was conceptualised in 2002. The project stalled because the beneficiary stakeholders are smallholder communities, without financial resources.

Following a series of technical and environmental studies, which confirmed the project’s viability, the Maputo Provincial Government (project proponent),

Government of Mozambique and the African Development Bank (lead financiers) reached an accord in 2015, to develop the Cofamosa project under a PPP framework.

Multi-disciplinary

Booker Tate and LBC assembled a multi-disciplinary team of legal, social and technical specialists from the UK, Mozambique and South Africa and the team engaged project stakeholders, comprising beneficiaries, off-taker and government entities.

“Public Private Partnerships are common for infrastructure projects, like toll roads and dams, but less common in the agri-industrial sector, because of complicated arrangements for repayment surety,” explains Hugh Glyn-Jones, Managing Director, Booker Tate.

“One of the challenges of this project was to design a viable PPP framework model, that would

Jonathan Innes, Senior Economist, Booker Tate (left) with Patrick Malein, Agriculturist, Booker Tate next to the BEI Awards category shortlists

32

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

guarantee a flow of funds to repay loans for the capital required for the bulk infrastructure and downstream development. This will be achieved by dividing the project into two components.

Firstly, the bulk infrastructure component comprising bulk water supply, power and main roads and secondly, the downstream development component, comprising in-field irrigation systems, land development and crop establishment.

“We are optimistic that this initiative that will provide job opportunities, alleviate poverty and improve the livelihoods of the local community. Beneficiaries of this project will include the Cofamosa membership, farmers associations, small scale farmers, their dependents and service providers.

Sugar cane

“It is understood that the project area has good topography, fertile soils and readily available irrigation water from the Corumana Dam. Harvested sugar cane, grown by smallholder farmers, will be delivered under contract to the nearby Xinavane Sugar Mill, which is privately owned and operated.

“It has been rewarding for the team, through collaborative efforts, to streamline a large and disparate stakeholder group - with a wide range of entrenched views and diverse expectations - to accept our proposed framework for financing and implementing this project.”

This PPP framework model, which is supported by Mozambican stakeholders, is likely to be replicated by other agricultural projects in Africa, which have similarly been stalled.

Booker Tate was acquired a year ago by a South African owned company - Bosch Projects Pty (Ltd) part of the Bosch Holdings group of multi-disciplinary consulting engineering companies. Together, Booker Tate and Bosch Projects have provided innovative, cost competitive technical solutions for cane sugar mills and refineries, cogeneration plants, ethanol distilleries, sugar cane production and general agribusiness, in over 100 countries. Specialist services extend from feasibility studies to detailed engineering design, construction and commissioning in both the agricultural and factory sectors.

This was of one of the many stakeholder engagement meetings held to explain the PPP concepts and to receive and discuss the feedback. The participants were some of the Cofamosa members and prospective farmers in the project.

Power generation

Critical to specify fit-for-purpose engines for gensets He says the resistance to engines manufactured in Asian countries is largely a thing of the past.

“The last five years have seen majority of the leading global engine OEMs invest in or partner with manufacturing facilities in the East, and this has resulted in lower cost units being produced to OEM specification under exacting quality standards,” he says.

These engines are now largely supported by locally based South African representatives or agents, which assures end-users of sustainability and access to parts over the long term. Both will ensure reduced total cost of ownership.

Warranty

A Deutz water cooled diesel engine suitable for powering standby gensets for small offices or agricultural applications.

genset manufacturer, Zest WEG Group believes Las ocal that those involved in the purchasing decision as well the end-users of standby power generation systems need to apply more attention to engine selection during the specification process.

Louis Kotze, chief operating officer at Zest WEG Group Generator Set Division, says that with the increasing call for gensets in standby power applications it is necessary for specifiers to fully understand the operational requirement of these units, and then apply this knowledge to the engine selection.

“An area where cost savings can be achieved without impacting on the reliability or operation of a standby genset is the engine,” Kotze explains.

“An engine in a standby power application will run for limited duration during power outages, yet we often see tenders requesting top-of-the-range premium brand engines that are completely

over-specified for this function.

Not only is this a waste of capital expenditure but it could also affect the operating costs.”

Assist in advising Kotze says it is far more prudent to allow the genset original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to assist in advising and specifying a fit-for-purpose engine. He explains that the engine in a standby genset would have an estimated run time of 250 hours per year with a maximum of 80% average load factor.

Another important point that must be kept in mind is that the genset OEM and not the engine supplier will carry the warranty for the engine.

Kotze reiterates that for this reason it is important to deal with a reputable genset OEM that has the necessary technical expertise and knowledge as well as the financial stability to support the product once it is in the field.

Zest WEG Group operates an extensive genset manufacturing facility in Cape Town and can supply standby power solutions in stationary or mobile configurations from 10 kVA up to 3 350 kVA. Kotze says the capacity can be increased upwards with multiple synchronised sets.

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Climate

Seasonal Climate Watch August to December 2018

Overview The El Ni単o-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is still in a neutral phase and is expected to rise towards an El Ni単o phase through the spring period. The likelihood of an El Ni単o event occurring is increasing as we move towards spring, when confidence in ENSO forecasts also starts increasing. It is still too early to determine the potential impact of the predicted El Ni単o event; however, the typical effects are drier and warmer conditions for the summer rainfall areas during summer.

The forecasting system indicates confident forecasts for abovenormal rainfall over the western coastal regions during early spring (Aug-Sep-Oct).

Rainfall totals for these regions are however substantially lower than the midwinter (Jun-Jul-Aug) seasons.

There is some concern for the southern coastal regions as there has been below-normal forecasts with confidence since last month for spring (Sep-Oct-Nov). This area usually still receives significant

Seasonal Totals and Averages In an effort to improve the predictions made by the SCM, which struggles to produce reliable rainfall and temperature forecasts at a local scale, the Multi-Model System (MMS) has been implemented to statistically downscale various global forecasts, including the SCM and the Climate Forecasting System version 2 (CFSv2) administered by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Below are the current three-season forecasts issued in July 2018. Three maps are shown for each season which include the raw MMS probabilistic prediction (left), the probabilistic prediction with skill masked out (middle) and the climatological average (right) for the specific season. The user is advised to consider the skill masked map (middle) as the official SAWS forecast, however, the two additional maps may be used as tools in such a case where skill for a specific area is deemed insufficient.

August-September-October (ASO) 2018 seasonal precipitation prediction without skill taken into account (left), as well as skill masked out (middle). Also included is the climatological average for ASO (right, in mm) calculated over the period 1979-2009.

September-October-November (SON) 2018 seasonal precipitation prediction without skill taken into account (left), as well as skill masked out (middle). Also included is the climatological average for SON (right, in mm) calculated over the period 1979-2009.

August-September-October (ASO) 2018 seasonal minimum-temperature prediction without skill taken into account (left), as well as skill masked out (middle). Also included is the climatological average for ASO (right) calculated over the period 1979-2009

August-September-October (ASO) 2018 seasonal maximum-temperature prediction without skill taken into account (left), as well as skill masked out (middle). Also included is the climatological average for ASO (right) calculated over the period 1979-2009.

rainfall during spring and has also been affected by a drought the past few years.

Late spring (Oct-Nov-Dec) forecasts show confident forecasts for above-normal rainfall over the eastern coastal areas, which is also supported by the forecast for an increased number of rainfall days in the area.

Overall higher temperatures are still expected moving towards the spring period. There is a particularly confident forecast for above-normal

temperatures over the northern parts of the country.

The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor and provide updates of any future assessments that may provide more clarity on the current expectations for the coming seasons.

Please contact the South African Weather Services if you have any queries or suggestions on the new format.

Rainfall Frequency Predictions This product is a result of the SAWS operational multi-model system (MMS) where the 850-hPa geopotential heights hindcast outputs are first statistically recalibrated and downscaled to observed number of rainfall days exceeding desired thresholds (derived from high resolution 0.1 X 0.1 degree (ARCv2) African Rainfall Climatology version 2 rainfall dataset) within seasons of interest over southern Africa by using model output statistics (MOS). The 850-hPa geopotential heights are used here because they are found to be the best predictor of rainfall over southern Africa.

These forecasts can be used together with the traditional seasonal rainfall total forecasts in that it can indicate the frequency of rainfall days where seasonal rainfall forecast areas expect below- or above-normal conditions.

August-September-October 2018 rainfalldays forecast. Forecast for high and low number of rainfall days exceeding 5 and 15mm without skill taken into account (left) and with skill taken into account (middle).

Also included is the climatology for rainfall days (right) exceeding 5 and 15mm calculated over the period 1983-2009.

September-October-November 2018 rainfall-days forecast. Forecast for high and low number of rainfall days exceeding 5 and 15mm without skill taken into account (left) and with skill taken into account (middle). Also included is the climatology for rainfall days (right) exceeding 5 and 15mm calculated over the period 1983-2009.

All the forecasts are a result of an objective multi-model prediction system developed at the South African Weather Service.

This system consists of long-range forecasts produced by the following institutions: http://www.weathersa.co.za/home/seasonal (Latest predictions including maps for the whole of SADC) https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/climate/forecasts/enso/ current/ (ENSO predictions from various centres)

Information supplied by South African Weather Service.

For more information please contact: Cobus Olivier - Scientist: Prediction Research: cobus.olivier@weathersa.co.za Website: www.weathersa.co.za - Weatherlines: 012 367 6000 and USSD - *120*7297#

34

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Dam levels

Dam Levels The levels of selected dams in South Africa, presented as a percentage of full supply capacity, as on 16 July 2018, as well as the corresponding date in 2017. % of Full Supply Capacity

16 July

2018 2017

OLIFANTS RIVER Witbank (M)

% of Full Supply Capacity

16 July

2018 2017

Grootdraai (M)

90.7

85.7

100.7

100.7

Boskop (NW)

99.8

101.3

98.1

68.0

Klipdrift (NW)

#97.6

100.7

Bronkhorstspruit (G)

100.5

90.8

Erfenis (FS)

87.7

Rust de Winter (LP)

100.0

90.8

Kalkfontein (FS)

Loskop (M)

100.1

100.0

Buffelskloof (M)

84.0

Ohrigstad (M)

32.7

Middelburg (M)

% of Full Supply Capacity

16 July

2018 2017

Darlington (EC)

31.3

26.1

GREAT FISH RIVER Grassridge (EC)

37.1

24.4

72.3

Kommandodrift (EC)

27.4

42.8

34.2

12.9

De Mist Kraal (EC)

90.9

84.5

Rustfontein (FS)

41.5

31.3

Katrivier (EC)

97.8

82.5

100.2

Krugersdrift (FS)

96.4

43.1

84.3

Groothoek (FS)

55.8

17.2

Xonxa (EC)

98.2

97.5

GROOT KEI RIVER

Blyderivierspoort (M)

94.5

100.2

Sterkfontein (FS)

95.5

91.3

Lubisi (EC)

64.4

32.9

Klaserie (LP)

89.0

100.5

Saulspoort (FS)

102.9

102.3

Doornrivier (EC)

93.4

53.3

Ebenezer (LP)

85.9

100.1

Vaalharts Storage Weir (NC)

73.8

82.7

Waterdown (EC)

86.1

61.5

100.2

100.5

Bloemhof (FS)

102.3

100.2

Tzaneen (LP)

38.2

58.8

Douglas Weir (NC)

108.8

104.7

Middle Letaba (LP)

12.2

21.9

Magoebaskloof (LP)

LIMPOPO RIVER

OLIFANTS RIVER (WC) Clanwilliam (WC)

Hartbeespoort (NW)

96.3

99.8

Olifantsnek (NW)

41.3

67.9

Buffelspoort (NW)

99.1

96.3

22.6

BERG RIVER

UMGENI RIVER Midmar (KZN)

97.0

75.7

Nagle (KZN)

75.2

65.7

Albert-Falls (KZN)

52.3

32.1

Inanda (KZN)

71.3

64.8

Hazelmere (KZN)

72.6

114.6

96.0

90.0

#93.9

104.5

96.3

83.7

Voëlvlei (WC)

54.8

21.0

100.3

Wemmershoek (WC)

85.1

36.6

100.0

101.6

Berg River (WC)

84.7

36.5

Spioenkop (KZN)

35.5

91.0

Eikenhof (WC)

88.2

54.9

Driel Barrage (KZN)

100.2

98.7

Steenbras (WC)

54.4

27.4

Upper Steenbras (WC)

94.9

69.3

67.9

96.6

Klipvoor (NW)

100.9

100.8

Brandvlei (WC)

34.2

20.3

Goedertrouw (KZN)

47.5

34.0

Vaalkop (NW)

30.5

82.7

Roode Elsberg (WC)

77.8

26.2

Klipfontein (KZN)

93.9

60.7

102.0

102.9

Pietersfontein (WC)

40.2

60.1

Hluhluwe (KZN)

97.6

69.2

Marico Bosveld (NW)

58.6

96.6

Theewaterskloof (WC)

40.3

19.5

Pongolapoort (KZN)

44.6

39.1

Klein Maricospoort (NW)

38.0

71.3

Kwaggaskloof (WC)

35.1

13.3

Jericho (M)

84.4

70.3

Albasini (LP)

85.3

83.5

Duiwenhoks (WC)

78.4

57.9

Westoe (M)

59.2

88.7

Vondo (LP)

99.3

99.0

Morgenstond (M)

78.9

55.5

Heyshope (M)

88.0

82.8

Bospoort (NW) Lindleyspoort (NW) Roodeplaat (G) Kosterrivier (NW)

Roodekopjes (NW)

ORANGE RIVER Katse (L)

MFOLOSI RIVER

TSITSIKAMMA RIVER 4.8

19.2

58.4

35.7

Wolwedans (WC)

80.4

76.3

Egmont (FS)

100.0

90.7

Kromrivier (EC)

16.0

8.7

Gariep (FS)

92.8

78.6

Vanderkloof (FS)

98.6

76.4

Kouga (EC)

7.2

Boegoeberg (NC)

91.3

105.0

Loerie (EC)

71.8

Vaal (FS)

98.3

92.0

89.6

Driekoppies (M)

68.4

47.5

16.6

Witklip (M)

96.8

100.2

24.7

Da Gama (M)

81.2

83.7

Inyaka (M)

75.2

89.2

GAMTOOS RIVER

Nqweba (Van Rynevelds Pass) (EC)

9.7

CROCODILE/KOMATI RIVER Nooitgedacht (M)

SUNDAYS RIVER 94.7

Woodstock (KZN)

BREEDE RIVER

Hartebeeskuil (WC)

VAAL RIVER

THUKELA

16.5

Source: http://www.dwaf.gov.za

# Latest available data - * Water available to RSA from Lesotho SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

35

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NAMPO

Big accolade for Prof Schulze

R

oland Schulze, Professor Emeritus of Hydrology at UKZN and Senior Research Associate in the Centre for Water Resources Research (CWRR) received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the African Utility Week Industry Awards, an event designed to recognise energy and water influencers in Africa in 12 award categories.

colleagues for their support.

He credited the supportive academic environment in which he operated for his career for enabling his innovation and success.

He paid special thanks to his wife of 50 years, Waltraut, and their two children and seven grandchildren.

The Prof completed his Honours, Masters and PhD studies at the then-University of Natal, began his career as a high school teacher of science and mathematics, joining his alma mater in 1969 where he worked until formal retirement in 2007.

He piloted South Africa’s first hydrology degree course in the early 1980s; the discipline grew under his leadership to form the CWRR, now training more than 150 undergraduate students and 30 postgraduate students from around the world annually.

Over 600 guests from 30 countries attended the glamorous black-tie event, composed of Africa’s renowned power and water industry professionals. Schulze was selected winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award by a panel of 22 international judges.

First hydrology degree Hailing from Pietermaritzburg, Schulze pioneered formal scientific hydrological studies at South African universities by piloting the country’s first hydrology degree course in the early 1980s and then seeing the discipline grow from that of a single lecturer with a handful of students to a fully-fledged Centre for Water Resources Research.

Schulze has initiated and been involved in national and international level hydrological research for the past 50 years, and in applied climate change research in the fields of agriculture and water for the past 30 years.

“I’m proud not only for myself but also for the many colleagues and my family that have helped me achieve this,” Schulze said.

Credit schoolteachers Schulze reflected on the individuals and institutions who influenced his outlook and success, including his parents whose own goals were cut short by the Great Depression, leading them to have to curtail their schooling at the age of 14 to start work.

He credited his schoolteachers for instilling integrated thinking, environmental consciousness and independence.

He acknowledged his university mentors, particularly Professors John Daniel and Peter Tyson, for inspiring scientific enquiry, scientific rigour and lateral thinking, and colleague Professor Potgieter Meiring for granting him freedoms of scientific endeavour and initiative.

Schulze also thanked the National Research Foundation, the Water Research Commission (WRC), various government departments. His enthusiastic Masters and PhD plus his students, and his research

Netherlands and Sweden Schulze was also visiting professor at IHE Delft Institute for Water Education in the Netherlands and at the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute. He has been involved in more than 100 short courses on hydrological modelling and climate change in South Africa, Africa and Europe.

Schulze’s involvement in national and international level hydrological research spans more than 50 years, and for the past 30 years he has been pursuing applied climate change research.

Landmark achievements include development of the Agricultural Catchments Research Unit (ACRU) agro-hydrological modelling system and the SCS-SA design hydrology simulation model.

He has over 600 varied publications to his name, from refereed journal papers to books and popular articles, with further publications forthcoming. He has spent six sabbatical leaves at institutions in the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States and the Netherlands. Schulze has supervised 67 Masters and 20 PhD students, with eight students currently under his supervision.

His graduates have gone on to make a considerable impact in various sectors.

Schulze’s vision for the future of his field is one in which hydrologists and water managers fully understand the processes involved in a highly complex and non-linearly responding hydrological system in a water-scarce country. He emphasises that they will need to be technologically astute, innovative and adaptive, taking a nexus perspective by integrating water security with food and energy security.

Courtesy Friends of KZN Agriculture Newsletter.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

37

Cape Town water

water shortage caused by farmers, city dwellers or drought?

Was the

We have analysed the data, and can now answer this question

By Piotr Wolski

M

uch has been argued about the causes of the 2017 Cape Town water crisis. Is it the drought? Is it climate change? Is it population growth? Is it lack of foresight by national government or local government? Is it the rich? Is it the poor? Is it farmers? Or industry? Or invasive trees?

The process of analysing causes is understandable and necessary. We want to know. We need to know. We need to understand, because only then can we learn properly from the experience in order to avoid similar crises in the future.

We have heard and will continue to hear various perspectives on this. They are and will be coming from scientists, civic activists, the government, various interest groups, experts and non-experts alike. Importantly, opinions might be based purely on perceptions, or they might be based on data and facts.

Bix Six In those calculations, rainfall is taken as an average of values from five sites, which are located near each of the Big Six dams (there are two Steenbras dams, but I use only one rain gauge to represent rainfall over them, so there are five and not six rain gauges). Potential evaporation is calculated from meteorological variables measured at 35 Agricultural Research Council meteorological stations across the region. Water use by agriculture; Cape Town and the smaller municipalities are represented by data from the City of Cape Town.

Here I would like to contribute to this discussion with some data-based analyses. I will attempt to answer a question about the last three years (2015-2017): To what extent has unusual climate and unusual water use in this period affected dam levels and the amount of water available to Cape Town?

To answer these questions, we have developed a simplified water balance calculation — a hydrological model — for the Big Six reservoirs and their catchments. The model accounts for the main factors affecting dam storage: rainfall, evaporation and releases for water supply, as well as runoff from the catchments.

That runoff is calculated based on rainfall in the catchments, taking into account processes such as soil moisture replenishment and evapotranspiration.

Details of the model and calculations are available in the accompanying blog at the UCT Climate System Analysis Group website.

38

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

It looks like the model works well indeed! There is some difference in 2010, but that is most likely a result of an error in the data rather than deficiency of the calculation procedure.

Now, I can use the model to answer the question posed earlier: what is the relative role of climate versus water use in lower dam levels in 2015-2017. However, I rephrase this question slightly differently as four “what if” questions.

1. What if rainfall was average?

2. What if evaporation in that period was average?

3. What if municipal water use in that period was average?

4. What if agricultural water use was average?

To answer these questions, I do the water balance calculations with either rainfall, or evaporation or water use in 2015-2017 set at values representing the 2006-2014 average.

These average values are illustrated below, together with the original data: And this is how the results of the water balance calculation (a water balance model) compare with observed reservoir storage:

Cape Town water & News of 2017 there was no longer a difference between dam levels under the actual, and under the hypothetical average urban use.

The higher than normal agricultural demand, however, reduced the reservoir storage at the end of 2017 by about 8.5 percentage points compared to average demand.

The graphs show clearly that in 2015-2017, rainfall was considerably lower, evaporation was not different, and agricultural use was higher than the recent average. Urban use was higher than recent average in 2015 and 2016, but lower in 2017.

These average values are included in the water balance calculations one at a time.

This means that with average rainfall, actual observed values of the three remaining variables (evaporation, urban and agricultural use) are used. This creates four scenarios describing the “what if” situations. The results are as follows:

Water shortage may but does not have to result in a crisis. A water shortage may be merely a nuisance of prolonged, but relatively mild, water restrictions and it does not have to grow into a full-fledged crisis that threatens the existence of a city with dramatic social and economic consequences. Perhaps the “day zero” threat could have been avoided if water allocations were slightly lower, or water restrictions were implemented earlier.

It is clear from the above figures that the main driver of the dropping dam storage was lower rainfall. Unusual evaporation played a very limited role. Increased water use (compared to that in the preceding years), both municipal and agricultural, also contributed relatively little to the reduction in the available water.

Rainy season If rainfall was average, we would have had full dams at the end of the rainy season every year from 2015 to 2017. If urban water use was average, dams would have only been five percentage points higher at the end of the 2016 rains than they actually were. The lower urban demand in 2017 compensated for that deficiency, however, and at the end

Had agricultural demand been curtailed by approximately 25% already in the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 growing seasons, dam levels in 2017 would be 8.5 percent points higher than they actually were. Similar reasoning applies to the urban use. But we know this only now, with the benefit of hindsight. It’s easy to have opinions about past events while having such a benefit. It is more difficult to take decisions there and then without it.

To assess the role of water management decisions that were taken in the last three years requires a different analysis than the one done here, however. We are busy with such analyses.For the time being, let me reiterate: the water shortage in 2015-2017 occurred mainly because rainfall was low.

Dr Wolski is a researcher at the Climate System Analysis Group of the University of Cape Town.

Published originally on GroundUp .

R10bn Limpopo Eco-Industrial Park for Musina

S

outh Africa – and Africa’s – first zero solid waste eco-industrial park was launched in Johannesburg today. Set to attract over R10 billion in initial CAPEX investment, the Limpopo Eco-Industrial Park (LEIP) has been designed as a viable solution to industrial development, representing a collective and sustainable vision for the province. With a further R5.4 bn estimated to flow into the region per year during the initial operation phase, and over 101 000 jobs to potentially be created during the first five years of construction, the LEIP will fundamentally change the region’s current growth trajectory and contribute significantly to South Africa’s strategic development goals.

Located in Musina on over 6 400 hectares between the border town and Beitbridge, the park will feature an integrated nature reserve; two residential eco-estates; 80 chalets on the Limpopo waterfront inside the nature park; the country’s first plasma waste gasifiers; syngas clean-up; two off-channel storage dams (with 20 mil m3 capacity); 200MW Eskom power supply and an additional 35MW solar power for housing and agro-processing; emergency services; and a world class logistics service, among others.

Designed and developed by Eco-Industrial Solutions (EIS), the Limpopo Eco-Industrial Park (LEIP) will be the continent’s first economically viable, zero solid waste eco-industrial park.

hectares allocated as private nature park to preserve environmentally sensitive areas,” explains Deshika Kathawaroo, CEO of EcoIndustrial Solutions.

Musina

The park will ensure a sustainable water supply for the LEIP, with bulk floodwater from the Limpopo River being extracted and directed to three off-channel storage dams.

A key feature of the park is its design by various ecologists and heritage specialists, with a strong focus on the environment and local communities. “The site layout minimises environmental impact, with over 2 000

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

39

Agriculture - research

An Earth Observation approach towards mapping irrigated areas & quantifying water use by irrigated crops in South Africa

T

he estimations of the area of irrigated crops are currently outdated and vary greatly. Various assessments since 1990 documented the area under irrigation, using different approaches. According to these estimates, the area under irrigation ranged between 1.21 to 1.58 million ha and the area registered for irrigation was between 1.44 to 1.68 million ha.

In order to address the knowledge gap regarding the appropriate methodology and obtaining recent empirical evidence of the irrigated area, a research project was initiated by the Water Research Commission (WRC) in 2013, which was co-funded by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). The overarching aim of this research project, led by Professor Adriaan van Niekerk of Stellenbosch University (SU), was therefore to update the existing estimations of the area and amount of water used by irrigated agriculture in South Africa (SA).

As stated in the published WRC report, the project by SU was undertaken with national and international partners.

Remotely sensed earth observation (EO) data are regularly captured from a wide variety of aerial and satellite platforms. The wide coverage and cost-effective nature of EO images are not only ideal for determining the area

40

of irrigated agriculture, but have for many years been employed in energy balance modelling to provide up-to-date estimates of actual evapotranspiration (ET) and the total amount of water utilised by irrigated agriculture.

A literature review of existing methods confirmed that EO is the only viable approach to use for national assessments. This research consequently applied various EO and geographical information systems (GIS) techniques, including the mapping of irrigated agriculture and the modelling of actual ET. Monthly datasets of ET for a 12-month period were generated for the entire SA. The ET datasets describe the water consumption and crop production on land between 1 August 2014 and 31 July 2015 and thus capture the phenology of vegetation, crop production cycles and associated water consumption. The generation of the irrigated area map and the

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

calculation of the total water use by irrigated crops were informed by these datasets.

ETLook model The ETLook model used to produce the monthly ET dataset proved robust despite some challenges with available and accurate (spatial) rainfall data.

The irrigated area map generated using the ET dataset – along with other remotely sensed data – was judged highly accurate by participating stakeholders. All known misclassifications were manually corrected to produce the final, validated third version of the map. The map showed that 1 334 562 ha of SA’s land surface was actively irrigated during 2014/15. This constituted about 10% of the total area under cultivation (including fallow areas) of the area used for agriculture in 2014/15. Western Cape Province had the highest area (260 476 ha) under irrigation, with Limpopo Province having the second largest area under irrigation (218 302 ha).

The national aggregation of ET for all irrigated areas in 2014/15 showed that the total consumptive water use from irrigated agriculture was 10 221 million m3 per year.

This compares well with previous estimates such as the 1997 Overview of Water Resource Availability and Utilisation in South Africa, which estimated the water use by irrigated agriculture to be 10 740 million m3 per year.

It is known that SA has a limited availability of suitable land and adequate water resources for irrigated crop production. With the added pressures of climate change, population growth and decline in water quality, the need for improved assessments of the current water resources and land uses is critical. Actions related to improved water use efficiency (WUE) and irrigation expansion can only follow once this information is available.

This project and report has contributed recent and accurate information on water use by different irrigated crops over time (i.e. throughout the growing season) and space (i.e. in different geographical areas). Combining these datasets into a water accounting (WA) framework will improve understanding of the actual pressures on SA’s water resources with changes in land use, that will better inform water use for irrigated agriculture.

Agriculture - research Knowledge gap closed In summary it can be stated that the knowledge gap has been closed by applying Earth Observation methodology that is at the forefront of international research practice. Breakthroughs through research have therefore been made by providing practically relevant knowledge which is of high priority. In this regard the report gives an excellent overview of the status quo of irrigated agriculture water use for the period of 1 August 2014 to 31 July 2015.

It must again be emphasised that the study established a methodology that can be replicated for other periods. Thereby it gives competitive advantage to DAFF for further implementation of available research results which

have been created by SU through funding by the WRC and DAFF. Taking these innovative research results and demonstration of application forward to practical implementation, a number of issues have to be considered: First, it is unlikely that the irrigated area mapping (IAM) and water use quantifications produced in this project are representative of the long-term situation. The application of the methodology to other periods is essential in supporting sound water management practices and guiding decisions about changes in water use allocations. Second, the FAO recently released an Africa-wide, freely available, monthly open access of remotely sensed derived ET dataset at 250 m resolution (also generated

using the ETLook model and thus very similar to the ET dataset used in this project) for the period 2009–2019. This will considerably reduce the cost of future implementation in SA. Linked with the recently released and freely available Sentinel 2 imagery, the ET datasets available through the FAO will allow for the production of seasonal (even monthly) IAMs and water use quantifications up to 2019. Third, if the irrigated area mapping process is automated, the latency (period required for production) can be reduced to a few weeks, which will substantially increase the reliability of the water use estimations, as it will allow for local validation to be carried out. Last, based on the findings of this research, it is mainly recommended that: 1. The irrigated area mapping

procedure is automated and funding for implementation of the procedure by DAFF is prioritised; 2. The irrigated area map is continuously (i.e. on a monthly or quarterly basis) updated; 3. The consumptive water use of irrigated crops is revised on a continuous (seasonal) basis at national scale; and 4. The water accounting framework is applied on primary catchment level, preferably in all catchments of SA. For more information contact: Dr Gerhard Backeberg (E-mail gerhardb@wrc.org. za), Executive Manager: Water Utilisation in Agriculture, WRC.

Farmers curb crime with technology Boere kap misdaad deur tegnologie

D

ie Agri Securitas Trustfonds het onlangs geld vir die beskerming van boere en hul plaaswerkers, deur gespesialiseerde tegnologie, bewillig. Dié geld van die Trustfonds en boere se planne help hulle om hulself en hul plaaswerkers teen misdaad en geweld te beskerm.

T

he Agri Securitas Trust Fund has recently allocated funding for the protection of farmers and their farm workers through specialised technology.

The money from the Trust Fund and the plans of farmers help to protect themselves as well as their farm workers against crime and violence.

State-of-the-art camera systems are used in the district agricultural

union jurisdictions of Kiepersol in Mpumalanga, Vierfontein in the Free State and Potgietersrus in Limpopo to monitor suspiciouslooking persons and vehicles in the areas. The use of these camera systems, which are monitored by a control room, essentially offers a permanent observation capability across the entire area whereby criminal activities can be detected and responded to.

Free State

“Technology employed as protection measure is no guarantee that a farm attack or crime will not occur,” said Japie Grobler, chair of the Agri Securitas Trust Fund. “However, it can delay or make an attack more difficult to carry out, offering the individual an opportunity to ward off the attack or crime.”

“In our farming areas there has been an increase in crimes such as stock theft, the theft of scrap metal and copper cables, as well as destruction of farm infrastructure.

Farmers also suffer losses due to the theft of large quantities of farm produce and the removal of farm inputs and equipment from the area. This has a significant

Some of the plans that include technology entail integrity selection systems such as those used by Agri Hertzogville in the Free State to promote the safety of the community. This system is intended to identify in advance any persons who are involved in criminal activities and who pose a safety risk to the community.

impact on farmers’ profitability,” said Grobler. “Our farmers are exposed to armed robbery, accompanied by loss of life and trauma. The Trust Fund attempts to support farmers and farm workers in a practical manner by providing funding for protection measures in their battle against crime.”

The Trust Fund hereby also acknowledges its strategic partners, namely Nissan SA, Sanlam, CrisisOnCall and Sonfin, for their long-time support.

Companies such as NWK, Senwes and Santam Agriculture have been sponsors of the fund for many years.

“Without this support it would have been impossible for us to assist in protecting our farmers and farm workers,” said Grobler.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

41

Pg 42 General pic maybe? A river or water, or coal.

Environment

New proceedings launched

To protect Mpumalanga strategic water source area from coal mining

R

ecently the coalition of eight community and civil society organisations, that is resisting Atha-Africa Ventures’ proposed coal mine inside a Protected Area and Strategic Water Source Area in Mpumalanga, launched new legal proceedings in the Mbombela High Court.

The coalition believes it has good prospects of success, and that the approvals will be set aside by the courts in due course. If necessary, the coalition will take this matter to the Constitutional Court.

CER attorney Catherine Horsfield says, “The proposed mine would fall within a Strategic Water Source Area, which means that the area has been identified as crucial for the water security of South Africa and its people.

“The proposed mine would be located in a water source of the Vaal River System, which supports the water needs of South Africa’s economic hub, Gauteng. The proposed mining area also falls within the headwaters of the Usutu River which flows through Swaziland and, after joining the Pongola River, flows into Mozambique.

Consequently, the health of this river system is also relevant to South Africa’s international obligations. All of these users will be affected should a source of those rivers be compromised.

“As a country, let this happen.”

we

cannot

The coalition challenging this proposed coal mine includes the Mining and Environmental Justice Community Network of South Africa, groundwork, Earthlife Africa Johannesburg, Birdlife South Africa, the Endangered Wildlife Trust, the Federation for a Sustainable Environment, the

42

Association for Water and Rural Development (AWARD) and the Bench Marks Foundation and is represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights.

New The new proceedings are a judicial review application to set aside the decision of the Mpumalanga Department of Environmental Affairs to grant an environmental authorisation to Atha for its proposed Yzermyn underground coal mine, and the decision of the Mpumalanga MEC to dismiss the coalition’s appeal of that environmental authorisation.

The review application is coupled with an interdict preventing the start of any activities at the proposed mining site pending the outcome of the review.

The coalition reports that Mpumalanga Department of Environmental Affairs and the MEC granted environmental authorisation to Atha despite: Longstanding recognition of the strategic environmental importance of the area – specifically as a water source, and for biodiversity – by various government departments and agencies, supported by government funded research; The fact that mining will dry up the numerous wetlands and headwater and mountain streams in the area; The fact that mining will result in contamination of ground

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

and surface water, including acid mine drainage; Being in contradiction to key planning instruments for the area; Being in contradiction to South Africa’s international responsibilities relating to environmental protection; Atha’s failure to provide financial security for the future treatment of polluted water; and Having failed to consider the greenhouse gas emissions of the proposed mine and its climate change impacts.

Exporting coal Atha says it hopes to export up to 67.4% of saleable coal product from the proposed mine. The remaining 32.6% it expects to supply to Eskom power stations.

This suggests that the project is not aimed at ensuring local energy security. Atha claims that the proposed mine will create 576 jobs, but its consultants say most of these jobs will not be sourced locally. Atha has failed to address the agricultural and tourismrelated jobs and livelihoods that will be lost if the mine goes ahead.

Properly considered therefore, there is little in the proposed mine that will benefit the local population.

To the contrary, local communities would be negatively impacted by the proposed mine, including because their access to water would be restricted since the mine would cause the groundwater levels to drop and springs to dry up. Water would also become contaminated.

Further

downstream

of

the

proposed mine, river water is used by farmers for significant numbers of livestock and for crops, and also by hundreds of farmworkers for domestic use. Moreover, since part of the proposed mine is a strategic water source area, disrupting that water supply will have a national economic impact.

Proposals?

Atha was controversially, say the Coalition, granted a mining right by the Minister of Mineral Resources in 2015, despite the declaration of the Mabola Protected Environment by the Mpumalanga MEC in 2014.

Atha received approvals from the Mpumalanga Environment Department, the Department of Water & Sanitation and the Department of Mineral Resources in 2016. Thereafter, it also received permission from the former Minister of Mineral Resources, Mosebenzi Zwane, and Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa, under the Protected Areas Act. Many of these approvals were initially resisted by the various departments, and court proceedings have revealed disagreement amongst officials.

The Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs has reportedly expressed concern about the proposed mine and has interrogated Minister Molewa and the Department of Environmental Affairs about their decision to approve the proposed mine on a number of occasions.

Every regulatory approval for this proposed mine has been challenged by the coalition through administrative appeals and High Court proceedings.

Environment

Dogs help to fight poaching of rhinos and elephants

EWT Conservation Canine Annie nabs poachers

T

he Endangered Trust (EWT), in support of the fight against rhino and elephant poaching, provides trained dogs to reserves to assist in their anti-poaching operations. These EWT-owned dogs are trained to either track humans or detect wildlife contraband like rhino horn and ivory as well as ammunition.

The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), champion of conservation in Africa, has worked tirelessly for over 45 years to save wildlife and habitats, with our vision being a world in which both humans and wildlife prosper in harmony with nature. From the smallest frog, to the majestic rhino; from sweeping grasslands to arid drylands; from our shorelines to winding rivers: the EWT is working with you, to protect our world, says the Trust.

Conservation Canine Annie is one such conservation champion.

Annie has been trained to track and is used to follow up on poacher sightings, fence incursions and to follow poachers away from crime scenes. Annie is a graduate of the Southern African Wildlife College.

Brilliant tracking In July, the EWT Conservation Canine Project got this very excited message from Colin who handles Conservation Canine Annie, the team work in Limpopo.

“During the early hours of the

morning I received a call from one of our neighbouring reserves. One of their night observation posts thought they had seen a poacher walk past. I was asked to go and assist in the follow up with Annie.

The poachers had unfortunately walked in the same area as the field rangers making it difficult for me to indicate to Annie which tracks I wanted her to follow.

“We therefore followed the tracks visually until we found where the poachers had split away into the bush. The poachers were wearing socks over their shoes which made visual tracking very difficult. It became almost impossible once they had turned off into the bush but this is where Annie’s tracking skills came into play. For her, them wearing socks had no effect on her tracking ability.”

“I put her on the tracks and she immediately started to pull on the trail. Over time I have learnt to read Annie’s body language and I see she can read mine. It seems that we can both read when one of us are serious. In this case I could

see that her full focus was on the tracks. This was a good sign.”

A life of a rhino saved Colin continues his fascinating account: “Annie tracked through various terrains until I got a visual of the two poachers lying in long grass. They were arrested and a rifle with silencer, ammunition, axe and other poaching equipment were recovered. Undoubtedly the life of a rhino was saved today because of this team’s tracking skills and the many hours spent in observation posts and patrols by the field rangers employed by the reserve to protect their rhino,” said Colin.

“Unbelievably the action was not over for the day! In a later follow up operation by the SAPS to arrest the poachers’ pick-up team, one suspect was arrested by the SAPS and another fled the scene on foot into a neighbouring reserve. I was again asked to track the suspect with Annie. As there were numerous people at the scene contaminating the area, I placed Annie in the vehicle driven by the suspect and gave her the command to follow up. This enables her to know who we are looking for and when she exited the vehicle it did not take her long to get on track. We tracked for about 1 km through very thick bush, made contact

and arrested a very tired and demoralised suspect who thought he had evaded the law. Overall a good day for Conservation Canine Annie and her team!”

The EWT says it is very proud to be associated with this excellent team who have been involved in seven arrests this year alone. “With this kind of talent, dedication and team work, poachers are not going to be safe in Colin and Annie’s neighbourhood.

We further commend all role players who were involved in the collaboration that resulted in these arrests including the South African Police Services, anti-poaching units, reserve owners and managers.

We hope that appropriate sentences are handed down that make a real conservation difference,” says the EWT. The EWT Conservation Canine Project is supported by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust, Relate Bracelets, Royal Canin and several individual donors. Conservation Canine Annie was trained at the Southern African Wildlife College.

If you would like to support these crime-busting dogs, please contact Dr Kelly Marnewick on KellyM@ewt.org.za.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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Approved Designers

SABI Approved Designers Agricultural GAUTENG

LIMPOPO

Booysen, Juan Tel: 061 076 8691 (Brits) Claassen, Werner * Tel: 078 800 5148 (Brits) Grobler, Gerhard 082 329 8528 (Brits) Jansen van Rensburg, Theo * Tel: 082 498 5372 (Pretoria) Van der Stoep, Isobel * Tel: 082 331 4987 (Pretoria) Van der Merwe, Richard * Tel: 082 442 3300 (Pretoria)

Grobler, Johan Tel: 078 232 6360 (Tzaneen) Kotzé, André * Tel: 082 377 3099 (Mokopane) Mendel, Eloff Tel: 082 322 0181 (Polokwane) Muller, Heinrich * Tel: 083 730 7174 (Tzaneen) Oberholzer, Arie * Tel: 082 388 1024 (Marble Hall) Pretorius, Gert * Tel: 079 871 8502 (Mokopane) Van den Berg, Paul * Tel: 083 234 3163 (Tzaneen) Heymans, Charl Tel: 082 458 0235 (Naboomspruit) Wiers, Heimo Tel: 076 481 0171 (Letsitele)

EASTERN CAPE Ewels, Tony Tel: 083 654 7173 (East London) Frost, Hylton Tel: 082 896 1390 (Cradock) Loubser, Herman Tel: 082 477 0099 (Graaff Reinet) Mulder, Dassie * Tel: 083 423 9343 (Cradock) van der Merwe, Jarrod Tel: 074 799 7581 (East London) van Staden, Deon Tel: 082 615 0565 (Humansdorp)

INTERNATIONAL Hards, Adrian Tel: +61 45 1955 021 (Australia)

KWAZULU-NATAL Lotter, Paul Tel: 082 572 9218 (Pietermaritzburg) Nsele, Nkosinathi Tel: 076 196 5003 (Ballito) Pillay, Dan Tel: 082 857 7708 (Durban) Pottow, Rob Tel: 083 458 1220 (Pietermaritzburg) Raciborski, Franek Tel: 082 553 6073 (Pietermaritzburg) Vosloo, Willie * Tel: 082 571 2452 (Empangeni) Zartmann, Mark Tel: 082 806 5046 (Pietermaritzburg)

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MPUMALANGA Paul, Lothar Tel: 082 699 9307 (Komatipoort) Mulder, Andries Tel: 079 236 0222 (Malelane) Opperman, Christiaan Tel: 082 440 5098 (Komatipoort) Slabbert, Riaan Tel: 083 631 8637 (Nelspruit) Van der Merwe, André * Tel: 082 563 4109 (Malelane) Van Rooyen, Willie Tel: 083 465 5060 (Nelspruit) Rossouw, Thys Tel: 082 415 1507 (Nelspruit) Singh, Yashiel Tel: 082 447 2639 (Malelane) Vermaak, Gordon Tel: 083 610 6105 (Barberton)

ORANGE (FREE STATE) De Wet, Sarel * Tel: 082 524 9152 (Hopetown) Eksteen, Johan Tel: 082 499 8430 (Clocolan)

WESTERN CAPE Austen, Jerry Tel: 082 558 8300 (Kuilsrivier)

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

Barnard, Johan Tel: 083 273 8354 (Riviersonderend) Boonzaaier, Andle * Tel: 072 198 3670 (Grabouw) Breytenbach, Theuns Tel: 083 641 1351 (Stellenbosch) Cherry, Charles Tel: 082 492 2508 (Grabouw) Cornelissen, André * Tel: 082 907 3129 (Vredendal) Croeser, Aubrey * Tel: 082 456 9934 (Ceres) De Leeuw den Bouter, Werner * Tel: 082 460 8833 (Somerset West) De Swardt, Jannes Tel: 083 227 5859 (George) Du Toit, André * Tel: 082 784 2694 (Ceres) Gerber, Ruan* 072 071 7955 (Robertson) Hugo, Alewyn Tel: 082 446 4470 (Montagu) Hugo, Roelf * Tel: 082 874 0411 (Citrusdal) Johnstone, Gordon Tel: 084 298 6193 (Cape Town) Lindeque, Alan * Tel: 082 783 4123 (Cape Town) Lourens, Tian* 072 234 4948 (Caledon) Millen, Emile Tel: 082 971 8181 (Worcester) Millen, Jacques Tel: 082 771 3696 (Worcester) Orchard, Craig* 072 806 9771 (Grabouw) Prins, Gerhard Tel: 082 802 1363 (Somerset West) Rossouw, Hilgard* Tel: 076 282 5531 (Grabouw) Van Eeden, Wilhelm * Tel: 082 468 0290 (Montagu) Van der Merwe, Jan Tel: 082 785 5535 (Cape Town) Van der Merwe, Sakkie * Tel: 083 675 8871 (Citrusdal) Van Zyl, Christo Tel: 083 444 0804 (Cape Town) Van Zyl, Danie* 076 225 5838 (Hermanus) van der Merwe, Philip Tel: 083 426 0296 (Citrusdal) Visagie, Barend Tel: 082 773 3105 (Villiersdorp)

* Approved irrigation system evaluators

Wentzel, Wimpie * Tel: 084 513 3864 (Bonnievale) Van der Merwe, Wiehan Tel: 082 615 6812 (George) Zimu, Mkhanyiseni 082 085 9734 (Bellville)

Landscape GAUTENG: Andrew McKenzie Tel: 082 450 4747 (Johannesburg)

Claudine Holness 082 929 6967 (Johannesburg) Peet Pienaar Tel: 082 923 7755 (Pretoria)

KWAZULU NATAL: Dan Pillay Tel: 082 857 7708 (Durban) Tertius van Staden Tel: 082 416 2878 (Gateway)

WESTERN CAPE: Grant Barrett Tel: 083 457 0154 (Cape Town) Duncan McKenzie Tel: 082 4504757 (Cape Town) Jaco Neethling Tel: 079 571 9283 (Stellenbosch) Adrian White Tel: 083 639 0107 (Durbanville)

Irrigation Design Fees debate

Irrigation design fees Feedback

A Founder SABI member writes…

The question of whether the farmer should pay a design fee is not new.

In the late sixties/early seventies (prior to the foundation of SABI) the “Irrigation Association of Southern Africa” which was an Association of commercial companies involved in the design, sale and installation of a complete irrigation system, discussed this subject at length.

The final conclusion and majority opinion which emerged was against the charging of the design fee.

It was felt at that time that the competitiveness between the companies would be taken away.

Design took a lot of time and manpower. Starting with the survey of the land to be irrigated, often done with a dumpy level and not theodolites. No GPS. Endless hours at the drawing boards, no CADs and lengthy hydraulic calculations

Further responses…

Dear Ralph, Thank you for your views and opinions regarding the design fee of irrigation systems. The two scenarios that you describe are still present in the irrigation industry.

There is, however, a movement towards a process of asking a tariff for services rendered. The reason is mainly due to the small percentage mark-up, due to the fierce competition at present.

What some designers find, though, is that after they complete the entire design, the farmer takes his or her design - and then shops around. To counter this, the designer may give the farmer limited information. If and when the farmer agrees to buy

with the help of friction loss tables.

No computers. Calculation of the water requirements in relation to crops, climatic data, soil types, wind speeds etc. working out the exact pump specification and power requirements.

Of course, these costs were somehow calculated into the material costs, respectively and were part of the profit margin.

It was felt that your design and relationship with the farmer would sell your scheme.

And then everything of the above had to be transferred to a specified quotation.

I have worked for more than 30 years in the irrigation industry and speak from experience.

Once an order was received the supplying company had to do the installation (except the digging of the trenches and building the pumphouse) by laying the underground pipeworks, installing the pump unit and commissioning the complete scheme and providing after sales service and a user manual.

It is my opinion that companies should not charge a design fee.

One can see a lot of time and costs were spent on the design. Up to three companies were needed to do all this work at the time. the system, they will then provide the full information. Another approach is that a design will have a fee but if the farmer agrees to buy the equipment from the designer’s company, then the fee be waived.

Consulting companies always ask a fee, as they do not have equipment that they sell.

Felix Reinders, SABI Treasurer-Secretary

The debate continues…

Dear Felix, I hear what you are saying and agree to certain extent. It is frustrating when a farmer accepts a quotation and then shops around.

That happened to me too.

But then the irrigation companies become purely suppliers of equipment and instead of a design department would have a costing department only.

The above is my input to the subject of design fees.

Ralph W. Hagemann, Somerset West

There is an alternative. An independent and qualified designer does all the design work at an established fee, based on hours spent and travelling costs.

In this case, the designer has to supply a very specified design to the farmer, which would then go out to tender. This has been done previously on cooperative schemes with more than one owner.

When I started Mannesmann Overhead Irrigation in 1967 I was very successful. Due to my training in Germany, my detailed and specific quotations led to many orders. My ratio was about 8 out of 10. And the farmers appreciated the detailed technical specification.

That lasted until the Co-ops started suppling irrigation material without design departments. But they could offer better financial terms and longer repayment terms.

But on the other hand, I admit that there were not that many firms in RSA in those days.

Also, there was only sprinkler irrigation: in most cases overhead.

Today the irrigation industry is much more complex than then: with

Ralph Hagemann and Felix Reinders

centre pivots, drip and microjet irrigation, also underground irrigation, landscape and turf.

And I must say SABI has done a fantastic job in offering training courses in irrigation design.

So, charging a design fee is justified, but I cannot see how it will work. I am looking forward what the eventual outcome is.

With kind regards, Ralph The Design Fee debate kicked off in the June July 2018 edition, if you would like to voice your opinion on this topic please feel free to email carol@sabi.co.za.

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

45

Agriculture

Development funding for land reform – Agri SA

Aims to create 1 million jobs and 10 000 new farmers

A

gri SA recently presented its solutions to the slow pace of land reform at a workshop hosted by the F.W. de Klerk Foundation in Johannesburg. “The context to the debate is the motion of expropriation without compensation (EWC) currently before Parliament, although more broadly speaking, the real question is how to effect speedy but sustainable agrarian reform. Central to the Agri SA proposal is an Agri Development Fund (ADF), which aims to accelerate transformation in agriculture by creating 1 million jobs and 10 000 new black commercial farmers,” is the word from Agri SA.

During 2017 Agri SA and its affiliates and partners spent R331 million on transformation and 108 307 new farmers in South Africa benefitted from these programs.

46

“The ADF can address unemployment, as well as improve access to food in rural areas,” said Omri van Zyl, executive director of Agri SA. “The slow pace of

SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

land reform to date is, in Agri SA’s considered view, a failure of implementation rather than a failure of legal framework.”

self-reliance in rural communities for it to be sustainable, and that wholesale expropriation would do the exact opposite.

Restoring dignity and self-reliance

“We are staunchly opposed to the amendment of section 25 of the Constitution. It will not solve anything, but rather hurt rural communities the most and in fact brake any sustainable agricultural transformation and development.”

We understand the debate is not just about economics and financial models. The historical dispossession of land caused deep emotional wounds, which have not been healed, and great physical hardship of an enduring nature. Agri SA believes that any agrarian policy must restore dignity and enable commercial

Agri SA will continue to engage with the various role players to advocate for transformation funding, as the sustainable solution.



IrrigationWise Academy Training | Subscriptions

IrrigationWise Academy L E A R N TO G R O W

Irrigation Training Reminder Agriculture D5 Computer aided irrigation design with IrriMaker Pretoria: 9-11 October Pietermaritzburg: 16-18 October D6 Evaluation of irrigation systems Pretoria: 4-5 September Pietermaritzburg: 13-14 September D7 Advanced irrigation design course Stellenbosch: 28-30 August Pietermaritzburg: 25 – 27 September

Courses for the irrigation farm & managers M1 Basic principles and installation of irrigation systems Nelspruit 21-23 August, Tzaneen 4-6 September.

M3 Irrigation Management Empangeni 11-14 September.

For further information, please call 021 850 8220 or email admin@sabi.co.za or info@sabi.co.za

Next time October/November edition

• • • • • •

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Greenhouses and undercover farming – on the farm and at home, large scale and small scale Hydroponics and aquaponics Fertigation and fertilising trends Smart technologies Management issues in agriculture and landscape How an avocado farm’s engineering manager’s loving heart and organisational skills kickstarted the Thabo Mazundza Foundation, ensuring school children in Giyani, Limpopo, get much-needed school shoes for the up-to 15km they walk every day to school, and 15km back home again.

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47

Contacts | Diary

SABI Council 2018-2019

Dagboek | Diary

PRESIDENT – Willie Vosloo E-mail: aquadrip@iafrica.com Cell: 082 571 2452

Undercover Farming Conference Western Cape

PAST PRESIDENT – Tony Ewels

The Undercover event has become a favourite on the Western Cape’s greenhouse and undercover farming calendar. Excellent presentations from top flight speakers, trade networking and interesting exhibitions of services and technologies all in beautiful Simondium, near Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

E-mail: tony@amairri.co.za Cell: 083 654 7173

10 - 11 October 2018 Venue: Allee Bleue Estate, Groot Drakenstein, Cape Town

VICE-PRESIDENT – Ian de Jager E-mail: ian@ifengineering.co.za Cell: 082 577 0677 SECRETARY/TREASURER – Felix Reinders E-mail: reindersf@arc.agric.za Cell: 082 495 0332 |

GAUTENG BRANCH –Albertus Burger E-mail: aburger@grundfos.com Cell: 076 991 6842

For more information, http://undercoverfarmingexpo.co.za/or Contact suzanne@axxess.co.za or Suzanne Oosthuizen on 082 832 1606, MD Undercover Farming

EASTERN CAPE BRANCH – Graham Delmar E-mail: grahamd@humkoop.co.za Cell: 082 560 2163

KWAZULU-NATAL BRANCH – Darran Boote E-mail: dboote@illovo.co.za Cell: 072 184 7978

LIMPOPO BRANCH – Francois Fourie E-mail: coisfourie@tt-i.co.za Cell: 083 626 6573

MPUMALANGA BRANCH – Michael Esmeraldo E-mail: Michael.esmeraldo@netafim.com Cell: 082 855 1987

SANCID Symposium 2018 13 -15 November 2018 Venue: White River, Mpumalanga, South Africa Theme: Opportunities to manage Climate Change A Premier event on the irrigation and drainage calendar, the Symposium aims to attract a multi-disciplinary group of professionals involved with irrigation drainage in Southern Africa. Academics, professionals, practitioners, policy makers, researchers and consultants are invited to attend and participate in this event that concerns an industry where engineering, agricultural science, economics, finance, development and the environment come together to create new opportunities and meet new challenges every day. The organising committee will endeavour to register this event as a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) event with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

ORANGE BRANCH – André Coetzee E-mail: andre@turf-ag.co.za Cell: 082 330 3456

WESTERN CAPE BRANCH – Jaco Neethling E-mail: jaco@loxtons.co.za Cell: 079 571 9283

SABI OFFICE GENERAL MANAGER – Riana Lombard E-mail: riana@sabi.co.za Cell: 083 303 3596

TECHNICAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER – Isobel van der Stoep E-mail: isobel@sabi.co.za Cell: 082 331 4987

For more information or booking for the event, please contact riana@sabi.co.za or visit www.sancid.org.

Advertisers Agrinet OBC KSB

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Agriplas 12 Lindsay Africa

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ASSISTANT TECHNICAL OFFICER – Annemarie van der Westhuizen

Agriplas

E-mail: annemarie@sabi.co.za Cell: 082 774 4163

Calafrica 20 Model Makers Systems CRI Pumps

MEDIA MANAGER – Carol Posthumus E-mail: carol@sabi.co.za Cell: 083 298 7623

Hose Manufacturers

13 Microjet IFC

7 Netafim

9 22

28 SAW Africa

Bauer and H&M

5 WPS 19

ADMINISTRATION OFFICER – René van der Merwe

Irrigation Unlimited (IU)

3 Zest 21

E-mail: admin@sabi.co.za Tel: 021 850 8220

Knittex 29 Zoeller 26

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SABI | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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