4. KEY FACTS
Up to 60% of our body consists of water, it serves the function of regulating body temperature,
transporting nutrients and aids the disposal of bodily wastes. The Midmar Dam in located the
Midlands, supplies water to approximately half of the province. Water in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN)
serves for multiple recreational ideals such as fishing, swimming and boating. The Department
of Water affairs upholds the maintenance and quality of the Midmar Dam, as it plays host to the
Midmar Mile, a widely renowned open swimming event
The Umgeni River nourishes the supply of water fed in the Midmar Dam, this encourages the
benefits of irrigation systems, Hydro power and safe drinking water (Van Deventer, 2012).
Midmar is a prime destination that is enriched with diverse landscapes and vegetation
consisting of various species such wildebeest and reedbuck. Midmar is a prime destination that
houses accommodation and hosts a wide range of activities such as water sports and camping
facilities.
5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Midmar Dam is a highly complex ecological system
that boasts many challenges in water preservation. The
quality of water has declined due to contamination from
industrial effluent and intensive agricultural activities
(dairies, maize production) (Mahlobo, 2016). The gradually
increasing development of eutrophic (conditions in the dam
are attributed to sewer wastes. Although occupying less
than 3% of the dam’s catchment area, neighbouring
townships contribute to the diminution of water quality (Van
Deventer, 2012).
6. ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
The dysfunctional sewage systems produces
51% of E.coli and 15% of the phosphorus in
the Midmar Dam. The uMgungundlovu District
Municipality aim to improve the degraded
wetlands, grasslands and riparian zones (land
occurring along the edge of river streams)
(Mahlobo, 2016). This deteriorates the affects
of climate change, they release greenhouse
gases and deprive ecosystems of necessary
nutrient The dam is projected to sustain its
animal life till 2028 if the trend in pollution
continues.
PRESENTATION TITLE 6
7. VALUE TO
SOCIETY
• The Midmar Dam is responsible for
sustaining water security in KZN,
therefore an investment in ecological
infrastructure is highly recommended.
The dam offers a habitat for plantation
and wildlife in addition the region
surrounding Midmar Dam proposes social
activities that are beneficial to the
government revenue in supplementing
fees pertaining to the resource site
(Tarboton & Schulze, 1991). .
8. VALUE TO SOCIETY
The Midmar Dam is a tourist destination that expresses environmental attractions and gathers people of different socio-
economic and cultural background offering a sense of togetherness and community. The Midmar Dam supplements water
security throughout most areas in KZN and can offer a development in renewable energy resources such as hydroelectric
energy.
The Midmar Dam’s primary function is to store surplus water, benefitting the arid lands through irrigation in addition the
regulation of irrigated water flows increases food security.
The dam emphasizes the importance of sustaining nature, sustaining indigenous biodiversity through protected areas
that foster conservation (Van Deventer, 2012). The nature reserve contributes to the economy by maintaining recreational
activities such as scouting, camping, sailing and sporting events. The various rivers aids in the function of inland
navigation, identifying the natural route taken by the flow of water.
9. RESPONSIBILTY
TO SUSTAIN THE
RESOURCE
• The sustainability of water resources
is vital for the survival of human
population due to the irregular climate
changes and water scarcity. The upward
demand of fresh water in communities
develop an increasing need to preserve
socio-ecological standards. The frequent
wastage of water and irregular treatment
of water catchments deteriorate water
security for local communities, this
creates an issue in soil erosion and
sediment inflow to the reservoir
(Tarboton & Schulze, 1991). The impact
on vegetation largely contributes to the
inflation of fresh produce, therefore
developing sustainable and cost-
effective ecosystem is mutually
beneficial to the environment and
citizens.
