A WINDOW ONTO NATURE'S WORLD - A WATER-WIZE APPROACH, FISH HABITAT AND WATER FEATURES.

Recent heavy Spring rains have replenished streams and dams, but the excessive RUN-OFF has highlighted the need to protect these natural habitats. Through valleys and fields where there is neglect of a "SET-BACK" line to the embankment edge erosion occurs. Too many dams remain clouded and filled with unwelcomed sediment from an inland Catchment. A minimum 10M Set-back line will assist conservation, but were regular flooding occurs, mark 30 M or more. Then secure with deep-rooting species such as Wild Date Palms, Waterberry trees, the Quinine Tree, and 'Protected' Swamp Fig, Ficus Trichopoda. Dense Bulrushes naturally slow down the rapid flow, echoing the Okavango Swamps, with Sedge species retaining the water's edge and Arum lilies adding ambience. Our Dams when clear and clean offer excellent fishing opportunities, with indigenous Carp, Catfish, Bream and Yellowtail fish. In our streams and dams Trout and Bass are exotic introductions. Visitors will need to check and obtain fishing permits. Where illegal dumping of toxic waste materials and sewage effluent occurs the water quality will be contaminated and compromised. The E.coli count confirms UNSAFE for human activity or consumption, and many fish will die.

The tinkling splash of water flowing and bubbling over River Rocks and pebbles has been an attraction for the Home and Garden and residents to enjoy through the ages. Where the property inherits a Natural Stream, this will add interest with the arrival of the otters. Ensure the Banks are well hosted with indigenous vegetation including Sedges and Bulrushes. The yellow flowering Hibiscus species enjoy moist areas and attract bees and insects. Crinum lilies a flowering focus. Depending on the width of the Stream a small footpath bridge will permit access across the flow. In an Estate or Park the

bridge construction by the Engineer must allow for the capacity of Water Flow, including Climate Change "Deluge" conditions. Strong pylons holding the structure present a positive option. Include a View Spot or Hide to enjoy the swallows, the Egyptian Geese, white Egrets, the Storks and flocks of Crested Crane.

Where the Goldfish Pond is man-made the position and structure will need careful planning with professional assistance. The Position should allow for adequate depth with shaded areas from intense sunlight. The Depth is Critical to ensure space and a constant water temperature. Waterflow and reticulation is also important to embrace the entire pond area. Stagnant water will build up algae, and cause loss of the Goldfish. Areas of shade will assist the water temperature, with River Rocks

adding shelter.

For a successful Koi Water Feature the Planning details require professional expertise from the start. Koi are a life-long commitment as they may live for 50 years and grow up to 3ft in length. In their Natural Koi habitat the pond offers algae, plants, insects and worms and the water is without too much movement. The outdoor Koi pond requires a minimum depth of 3ft, with at least 908 liters of water per fish. Every week about 10% of the Pond water should be changed. A position to offer shade and wind

shelter is essential. A Koi Pond Filtration system is necessary to ensure the fish remain healthy, with the filtration enabling simulation with their natural habitat. The Filtration systems remove solid particles, the ammonia, colonies of aerobic bacteria and control algae growth. Evidence of disease would require veterinary assistance. For oriental ambience plant Cycad species, ferns, and colourful succulents.

The tranquility of water is a sedative for existence, with a gentle cascade flowing down a cladded wall. Enjoy the elegant ceramic pot with the never-ending rim flow embracing the pebbles of time from the Tugela river.

Copyright reserved to Author: Mrs. G.S. Theunissen.

Word Count 604 = 10 = 1 Sun sign! Spot-light of Conservation: a Priority on the Waters-of-Life.