Agriculture, at its core, depends on the delicate balance of resources, with water being one of the most crucial. In recent years, particularly in regions prone to drought and irregular rainfall, water management has become crucial for farmers.
Understanding the dynamics of water quality and efficient use is fundamental to maintaining sustainability in agriculture.
Food For Mzansi recently hosted a Gather to Grow Instagram live session with Dirk Moolman, a hydrogeologist and expert in agricultural water sources and regulatory compliance.
Tackling water scarcity in SA
Moolman said South Africa’s agricultural sector faces unique challenges regarding water use. The country’s water-scarce environment necessitates that farmers are especially mindful of how they allocate their resources.
“Efficient water management is not just an environmental challenge; it’s an economic one. Farmers who master this skill are better positioned to thrive in a competitive market,” he said.
He identified common issues farmers face, such as contamination from sewage leaks affecting groundwater, especially given South Africa’s challenges with inadequate sewage treatment facilities.
“Sewage is a major issue for us in South Africa with sewage plants pumping or not working effectively.”
Moolman noted that farmers often become aware of water quality issues only when visible symptoms arise, such as clogged irrigation systems or damage to crops.
“Usually when things go wrong, then people start asking questions,” he said, highlighting the reactive nature of many farmers regarding water quality testing.
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Challenges and best practices
According to Moolman, one major challenge is that many farmers only test their water when they notice problems, such as crop issues caused by high salt levels.
He stressed the need for proactive testing, especially when using herbicides and pesticides, as water quality can affect the effectiveness of these chemicals.
He urged farmers to make water testing a standard practice. “This is a practice that should be more common with farmers.”
When it comes to the process of setting up a borehole, Moorman explained that farmers often turn to local drilling contractors. He advised consulting a hydrogeologist first to identify optimal drilling sites.
“It’s an expensive exercise, so targeting the right area is crucial.” He noted the importance of understanding the geological formations to ensure successful groundwater extraction.
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