Ecoregion and River Characteristics

This ecoregion has greater variation in relief. The lower altitude (800 to 1 500 m) brings slightly warmer temperatures (16-18°C) and lower rainfall (600-800 mm per year). The dominant vegetation is grassland, on shallow lithosols overlying granites, quartzites and basalts.

Here the Crocodile River is 10-15m wide, with rocky pools and runs with occasional riffles and some small waterfalls.

Present Ecological State

Good for all the ecological indicators except fair for riparian habitats

Drivers of Ecological Change (Land-use activities)

Agricultural activities (irrigated and dry-land cropping, cattle and sheep grazing) are widespread in this ecoregion. Conversion of natural habitat to cultivation results in loss of habitat, ecosystem processes, and in some cases loss of species. Application of agro-chemicals such as fertilisers and pesticides can also result in contamination or eutrophication of water bodies, altering their functioning and the water quality.

Desired Ecological State and Response by Resource Managers

This section of the Crocodile River should be maintained in a good state. Protection of riparian habitats, through exclusion of livestock from these areas, is the highest priority. Responsible use of the riparian zone by the agricultural sector is important, as well as to protect the riparian zone against invasion by alien vegetation. The Working for Water Programme (WfW) and local land-owners have already done significant clearing of alien vegetation in this part. Monitoring of roads in or near the riparian zone is recommended: New roads should not be constructed within a 20-30m buffer zone; where possible, existing roads should be removed and riparian vegetation restored; and only essential roads should be maintained and managed in order to reduce erosion.