Since
we moved in (April 2000) the dam underwent a metamorphose from a weedy waterreservoir
into a oasis of a.o. divers grasses, groundcovers, mesembs and other succulents.
The
history of Klaas Voogds is close related to the so-called 'water fights'.
According to stories well into the seventies of the past century workers
had to guard the diverse water inlets because every farmer had certain
times to open the sluices to fill up the own dam. Sometimes a farmer
thought he had more time than allowed.... and then his neighbour appeared
with a shotgun and the workers had to fled to their boss so there
were 2 shotguns. Etcetera, etcetera. |
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Damwalk
with elephants on guard
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Since the seventies,
when the Klaas Voogds Irrigation Authority (nowadays: Klaas Voogds Waterusers
Association), was founded the water supply is regulated by a system of so
called 'hectares'. This farm has the rights for 3 hectares, which is the
equivalent of about 200 liter water per 3 minutes. With this 3-hectare we
irrigate 10 hectares by using a dripper system which supplies water at the
spot next to small areas with sprayers and sprinklers.
Every year the Water Bailiff is measuring the amount of water at the inlets;
just to make sure….... |