Farms: Combating Water Shortages in South Africa
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In South Africa, rising temperatures and faster evaporation rates mean that farms require more water for irrigation, but also make rainfall more erratic. Water shortages have therefore become a threat to the agricultural sector, which accounts for eight per cent of South Africa's economy. This video shows how researchers supported by the Climate Change Adaptation in Africa program are contributing to the implementation of farming methods that improve water efficiency in agriculture. Produced by A24 Media, this is part of a series of six videos on research supported by CCAA. The Climate Change Adaptation in Africa research and capacity development program (2006-2012) was a joint initiative of Canada's International Development Research Centre and the United Kingdom's Department for International Development (DFID). Écoutez la vidéo en français : http://youtu.be/8tBIcb2ghTY
Comments
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I suggest they let the grass grow in the middle of the two rows of grape trees. As I could see from my garden, the baby papaya tree survive better if there are other grass that live surrounding it. As long as near the root itself there are none grass growing, I think the grape trees will have no problem with nutrient issue. Plus the grape tree is taller than the grass which it is impossible for the grass to compete with the grape tree to fight for sunlight. Letting the grass grow in the middle path of two grape trees might help in restoring the water. Perhaps a test, or some experiment can be carried out? From time to time, the dead grass are moved to the root area of the grape tree to keep the soil moist as it provides shade , plus after it is decomposed, it fertilize the soil? Just an idea.
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There is a solution to reduce water irrigation consumption by a minimum of 70%. We will import if from Germany but we also make license available for production here in SA.
This system is mainly made from recycled tyres. The system runs in the ground along the rows of trees, vines, shrubs etc. and keeps all the soil where the roots go moist as desired. The oldest installations are now 19 years in place and still working perfectly.
Overhead irrigation has never been the best as it not only uses enormous amounts of water of which the bigger part evaporates but also promotes fungy and moulds. Dripper irrigation, especially the single drip close to the plant is also not advisable as it forms bulp type water concentrations which is surely not the best for the plant itself and the out roots, where the water should be, are kept dry. For more info please contact helga@imvemvane.com or call 0878058803 or 0836424246. Thank you for taking the time to read the above. -
only God combined with the societies willingness and dedication can reverse this mess.........but we will find solutions!!!!!!!!!!! God is the author of all :) so He knows answers....