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Securing water and wildlife: A sustainable future for Barrydale

Securing water and wildlife: A sustainable future for Barrydale.

Client

Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP)

Project date

Ongoing

The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) appointed Zutari to lead stewardship and develop a Framework Plan for future investment in the Huis River catchment. The initiative aims to improve water resilience, environmental sustainability and community health in Barrydale.

The opportunity

Barrydale faces a range of water-related challenges, including drought, sanitation, flood management and ecosystem degradation. Zutari, in collaboration with the Groot Vaders Bosch Conservancy, undertook a comprehensive catchment characterisation report, analysing climate, population, economy and river health to inform the framework.

A key sustainability driver is the protection of the critically endangered Barrydale redfin fish, which depends on the health of the local ecosystem.

What we did

Zutari applied Water Sensitive Design (WSD) principles and prioritised restoration and collaboration. The team conducted:

  • Extensive stakeholder engagement through one-on-one and group discussions with community representatives.

  • Site investigations to understand local water supply, sanitation infrastructure and environmental risks.

  • Development of a prioritised list of interventions aligned with available funding sources.

  • Creation of a framework that empowers communities to initiate and sustain future water security projects.

Protecting the critically endangered Barrydale redfin fish is a key sustainability driver of this initiative.

The outcome

The framework provides a strategic roadmap for improving Barrydale’s water security while supporting other water users and preserving the ecosystem. It fosters collaboration, empowers local communities and encourages future initiatives aimed at long-term sustainability.

Barrydale’s proactive approach to water stewardship sets a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can address environmental challenges. With a clear framework and strong partnerships, the region is well-positioned to ensure a thriving ecosystem and a reliable water supply for generations to come.

Empowers community, fostering collaboration, and encouraging future initiatives aimed at improving water security.

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