Studies in Rietvlei/Diep River

Three important studies to look at various aspects of Rietvlei and the Diep River is or has been undertaken. All these projects will have public participation phases, more information will be available in the media during these phases. Estuary study by the C.A.P.E. Estuaries Programme of CapeNature The consultants have completed their report and it has been submitted to the Blaauwberg Subcouncil. The final report has some far-reaching recommendations, but the most important that requires immediate implementation is the need for urgent studies on the hydrology and geohydrology of Rietvlei and the estuary. This is necessary so that we can understand the water dynamics in the system, only if we understand this will we be able to tackle some of the more urgent problems in the estuary and Rietvlei. The Diep River Estuary Management Plan that was submitted to the Subcouncil can be downloaded from this website, it is an pdf document.   » Click here to download managment plan. Eastern stormwater discharges study A major cause for concern is the effect of the stormwater discharges on the eastern side of the Diep River on the system. We do know that the Theo Marais Channel which drains large portions of Montague Gardens is a major contributor to high bacteriological and nutrient levels in the Diep River, but we do not know what the contributions are from the other stormwater outlets further downstream. This study will look at the water quality of all these stormwater outlets and propose measures to decrease possible pollution. Tender documents are being prepared, the consultants should be appointed by April. Bayside Canal study The consultants have completed their study and the final report has been submitted to the City and the Provincial Administration. It was advertised for public comment, but we do not expect any objections to the recommendations for the upgrading of the Bayside Canal. The recommendations include a comprehensive upgrading of the canal, including an artificial wetland south of Link Road next to the R27 to absorb floods and filter the downflow from the Parklands area. There are also recommendations to improve the situation at Blaauwberg Road and the section between Blaauwberg Road and Rietvlei.