Grahamstown’s rainfall has never been reliable. Since Roger Rowswell began recording rainfall in Darling Street in January 1986, his lowest annual measurement was in 1992 (± 500 mm) and the highest in 2006 (± 1 160 mm).
Grahamstown’s rainfall has never been reliable. Since Roger Rowswell began recording rainfall in Darling Street in January 1986, his lowest annual measurement was in 1992 (± 500 mm) and the highest in 2006 (± 1 160 mm).
Rowswell’s data translate to an annual rainfall average of ± 720 mm. Figures vary across town. At Grant Street, Robin Stobbs measured only ± 910 mm in 2006. His highest annual measurement, since 1975, was 946mm in 1985, and lowest was 379mm in 1992. Since 1975, Stobbs’ data translate to an annual rainfall average of around 641 mm.
Our water supply dams are at an all-time low. Why?
Over the last few years, there has been less runoff (surface fl ow) caused by heavy rain over a short time span. Even if annual rainfall is low, good runoff is important, because this is what is needed to fi ll our water supply dams. Another reason is that water courses are drying up.
Thirsty invasive alien plants are a major contributing factor. Look at Glenthorpe Stream and the upper Palmiet River which feed Howison’s Poort and Settler’s Dams.
They are heavily infested with eucalyptus and long-leaved wattle. Nobody is sure how we will fare as changes in climate bring about unpredictable weather patterns.
All we do know is that it would be wise to pay attention to what is going on. Grahamstown does not want to be plunged into ongoing water crises because nobody thought to plan for the future!
Counting every drop
Grocott’s Mail will publish weekly rainfall fi gures from now on, drawing on rainfall measurements sent in by Roger Rowswell and Robin Stobbs. Another great blend of citizen science, civic participation and citizen journalism. Says Stobbs: “I hope that more wetwatchers will be encouraged to come forward with their fi gures.” Find out more about Grahamstown’s Wetwatchers’ Guild from Robin on 046 622 6592, email rstobbs@telkomsa.net, or Roger on 046 622 3212 or rar.tecs@telkomsa.net
Birds of a feather
Wild birds are important environmental indicators they act as warning lights of important environmental changes. If we watch the birds, we can get an early warning that something major has happened, like a spill of toxic chemicals or is about to happen, like a drastic change in weather.
For example, groups of the beautiful Lesser Flamingo BirdLife’s 2010 bird of the year have died off in large numbers because of heavy metals in a lake where they were feeding and breeding.
This threatened species is only occasionally seen in the Eastern Cape. Look out for its paler relative as you drive past Coega, or check it out online at http://www.birdlife.org. za/fi eldguide/book/index.php. Click on ‘waterbirds’ then ‘Greater Flamingo’.
National Bird Week which runs from 3 to 9 May this year, aims to raise awareness about birds, and get South Africans from all walks of life afl utter with excitement over our feathered friends. School children are involved in the fun.
Teachers can download a free resource pack with information about lots of curriculum-linked activities at www.birdlife.org.za.
In Port Elizabeth, BirdLife Eastern Cape is celebrating its 60th anniversary with many exciting events. More info from David Brown on 041 360 4025 or baldcoot@xsinet.co.za.Those in Grahamstown who are keen to get involved in local birding activities may contact the Diaz Cross Bird Club.
On 8 May, the club’s monthly outing will be to the spectacular Featherstone Kloof. To join them, meet in front of the Albany Museum at 7.15 am (remember comfy walking shoes, waterproof jacket, binoculars and refreshments).
On 10 May, their Annual Mike Bands Lecture will be held in Kenton-on-Sea. Charismatic photographer, writer and bird expert, Dr Warwick Tarboton, will give an illustrated talk on birds’ nests and eggs. Shared transport to the event will be available. Contact the Diaz Cross Bird Club Secretary, Jenna Holmes on 046 622 3000.
Wind farms – what do we know?
All interested parties are invited to attend an information-sharing meeting on the benefi ts and issues surrounding wind farms.
Speakers include the CEO of the Wilderness Foundation and Leadership School Andrew Muir, Dr Frederik Voster, a senior lecturer at the NMMU Physics Department’s Centre for Energy Research, Nick Fox of Sibuya Game Reserve, and Dr Garth Cambray, a sustainability entrepreneur.
Date: Thursday, 29 April 2010 Time: 5.30-7.30 Venue: Rhodes University Zoology Major lecture theatre (Prince Alfred Street). Come along and give your support to the Makana wind farm project!
Environmental Calendar – May
1 – Workers’ Day: our labour supports our livelihoods.
3-9 – National Bird Week (SA): birds are part of our biodiversity.
15 – International Day of Families: environmental and community care starts at home.
18 – International Museum Day: support places of learning.
22 – International Day for Biological Diversity: biodiversity is our natural ‘insurance policy’.
25 – Africa Day: remembering our roots, growing together.
