Identification and prioritization of areas for riparian buffer restoration in the Sout River catchment, Overberg District, Western Cape
Abstract
River catchments in areas dominated by agricultural activities are prone to contamination by
nutrient-rich sediments whereby phosphorus is most concern. Phosphorus binds to fine
sediments and gets transported to the rivers through surface runoff. Elevated levels of
phosphorus in watercourse can compromise their water quality. One of the major consequences
of high concentrations of phosphorus in watercourses is eutrophication which has detrimental
effects on biota. Therefore, measures need to be put in place to protect water resources and
prevent further water quality degradation.