Daff cautions farmers of drought despite increased dam levels in W Cape

AS DROUGHT conditions persist in parts of the country, the average level of major dams in the Western Cape have increased, but decreased in other provinces, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (Daff) said.

According to the Seasonal Climate Watch issued by the South African Weather Service, most of the country reported reasonable to poor veld and livestock conditions.

Below-average rainfall was anticipated over the central and south-eastern regions during late spring.

Above-average rainfall is expected during early to mid-summer in the central and eastern regions.

Meanwhile, the September 2019 Famine Early Warning Systems Network report states that the region continues to experience the impacts of the poor 2019 harvest with poor households in most parts of the region in crisis.

The most affected areas include Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho.

The possibility for a delayed start of the season in some areas is expected to delay normal agriculture labour opportunities and access to this income source.

Farmers have been advised to approach the season with caution, Daff said. Dry-land farmers should wait for sufficient moisture before planting and consider drought-resistant cultivars and short-season cultivars.

Farmers have also been advised to consider alternative crops such as sorghum. Those using irrigation should be mindful of the forecast as dam levels might not be replenished as quickly while irrigating.

“Farmers are advised to keep livestock in balance with carrying capacity of the veld, and provide additional feed. They should also provide enough water points on the farms as well as shelter during bad weather conditions.

“The veld remains dry especially in summer rainfall areas thereby maintaining the risk of veld fires,” Daff said.

“Episodes of localised flooding resulting from thunderstorms are likely and preventative measures should be in place. As above normal temperatures are anticipated, heatwaves are also likely, therefore measures to combat these should be in place.

“Farmers are encouraged to implement strategies provided in the early warning information issued.”

Meanwhile, the Great Brak River was hit with raging fires between the R102 and Voorbrug on Tuesday.

Provincial traffic chief Kenny Africa said: “The fire in Great Brak River in the Southern Cape has been extinguished. All road in the area has been reopened for traffic.”