PUBLIC NOTICE: CHANGE IN IRRIGATION WATER SCHEDULE FOR ROBERTSON

This notice informs residents and stakeholders about a change in the scheduled supply of irrigation water in Robertson. The initially planned restart date of September 1, 2025, has been postponed due to infrastructure upgrades and challenges with water availability.

The irrigation scheme in Robertson relies on water from the Gumgrove Dam, supplied through the Breede River canal and supplemented by the De Hoop Water Scheme. Unfortunately, several factors have hindered the ability to begin irrigation supply on the scheduled date:

1. No Water from the Breede River Canal 

   - Annual maintenance on the canal is currently underway.  

   - The aging siphon pipeline from the canal to Gumgrove Dam is undergoing urgent upgrades.  

   - No water has reached the Gumgrove Dam during August, resulting in dry irrigation dams.

2. De Hoop Water Scheme Prioritized for Drinking Water 

   - Due to the canal outage, De Hoop water is being redirected to Waterworks for essential drinking purposes.  

   - This water cannot be used to fill irrigation dams at this time.

3. Low Winter Rainfall  

   - Dassieshoek Dam, Robertson’s reserve dam, is at 58% capacity (down from 100% in July 2024).  

   - This reserve water is currently supporting drinking water needs.

Key Information:  

- The siphon pipeline upgrade is expected to be completed by Friday, September 19, 2025.  

- Once operational, water will be pumped to Gumgrove Dam for purification and replenishment of the irrigation dams.  

- It will take approximately two weeks to fill the irrigation dams.  

- New irrigation start date: Monday, October 6, 2025.  

- Initial schedule: Fortnightly supply to ensure sustainable distribution.  

- Transition to a weekly schedule will occur once the water supply and consumption stabilise.

Please note: Irrigation water supply in McGregor will commence and continue as normal, bi-weekly, from 08 September 2025.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure sustainable water management for all residents and agricultural stakeholders.

For further updates, please contact the Department of Civil Engineering Services or visit the municipal website.