Securing water and wildlife: A sustainable future for Barrydale
Huis River Catchment Water Security Framework
The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) appointed Zutari to lead stewardship and create a Framework Plan for future investment in the Huis River catchment.
The Framework Plan emphasises Water Sensitive Design (WSD) principles, restoration, and collaboration to improve community health, environmental sustainability, and water resilience for Barrydale residents.
Zutari, with the assistance of the Groot Vaders Bosch Conservancy, explored the water-related challenges faced by Barrydale. Through a comprehensive catchment characterisation report, the team examined the area’s climate, population, economy, and river health.
The framework aims to enhance Barrydale’s water security, support other water users, and protect the ecosystem. Protecting the critically endangered Barrydale redfin fish is a key sustainability driver of this initiative.
Protecting the critically endangered Barrydale redfin fish is a key sustainability driver of this initiative
Empowers community, fostering collaboration, and encouraging future initiatives aimed at improving water security
Stakeholder engagement was a key component of the investigation, with one-on-one and group discussions helping to gather insights from various community representatives. These conversations allowed for a clearer understanding of the pressing issues such as water supply, sanitation, drought, and flood management.
Following extensive consultations and site investigations, a prioritised list of interventions was developed. This framework not only aligns with ongoing funding from different sources but also empowers the community by fostering collaboration and encouraging future initiatives aimed at improving water security.
As we look toward a sustainable future, Barrydale’s efforts set a positive example of how community-driven initiatives can lead to effective solutions for water challenges. Together, we can ensure a thriving ecosystem and a reliable water supply for generations to come.
Ensuring a thriving ecosystem and a reliable water supply for generations to come.
*The Aurecon Africa business has been officially renamed Zutari as at 21 July 2020. Zutari acquired Aurecon Middle East on 20 November 2020.
