Veld fires ravage farmland

ABOUT 33 000 hectares of grazing land in the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) district, on Wonderwerk farm, has been destroyed by veld fires.

The fire that broke out on the farm, about 40km outside Kuruman towards Danielskuil, also spread to neighbouring farms in the ZF Mgcawu district.

The provincial Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development said yesterday that the dryness of vegetation during this time of the year, coupled with the effect of winds, created “perfect conditions” for runaway veld fires in the Province.

Department spokesperson, Phemelo Manankong, said that the department was reiterating its call to all land users and farmers to continue to practise precautionary measures when dealing with veld fires.

“The priority must be to reduce the risk of veld fires as well as preparedness to combat fires that might occur during this dry season. Annually, veld fires result in disastrous damage to natural grazing land, animals and properties, while in some instances it leads to loss of human life,” Manankong said.

Ravished

Earlier this year about 60 000 hectares of grazing land was ravished by veld fires in the Boshoff district bordering the Northern Cape and Free State.

Just over 5 900 hectares of grazing land was also destroyed by veld fires in Majeng in the Magareng Local Municipality. Preliminary assessment revealed that about 26 camps, 37 smallholder farmers, 926 large stock and 200 small stock were affected.

“The department is making a plea to farmers, farm dwellers and motorist to continue acting wisely when dealing with open fires and when operating machinery or smoking. They must continue practising precautionary measures to help in preventing veld fires. Motorists and pedestrians are also urged not to throw away cigarettes butts while driving or walking,” Monankong said.

Farmers and land users are encouraged to contact their respective municipalities or nearest fire station or police station to report veld fires.