Video
GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Driving on the N9 to Graaff-Reinet, about 30km from Willowmore, you pass a massive dam wall, in a beautiful setting.
The sign indicates that this is "Beervleidam".
Most travellers have probably thought that the dam was not well considered, as it is almost always empty, but the truth is that it fulfils its purpose perfectly.
It is a flood control dam and was built to protect the Gamtoos River valley from flooding, therefore it operates at a 0% capacity.
It receives overflow water from the Groot, Salt and Kariega rivers.
Whenever the dam receives enough water, the sluices are opened, so the dam is never full for long periods.
It is worth stopping at Beervlei Dam to have a look and stretch your legs. Photos: Sonia Wahl
Beervlei Dam is one of the best storage basins in the country and due to the high mineral content of the water it is unsuited for irrigation purposes.
This dam was a project of the Department of Water affairs. Building started in 1953 and the dam was completed in 1957.
In 1967 the spillway was raised by another 1,82m.
The dam wall height is 31m.
Under flood conditions the dam can accommodate 263 billion litres of water, covering an area of 4 500ha. In recent years it has noticeably received less water, however, it remains a very interesting attraction.
There is also a picnic spot at the bottom of the dam where you can stretch your legs.
Video: Die Beervleidam het weer water nadat dit die afgelope tyd gereën het. Dit is voorwaar 'n rare gesig om dit te sien, wat nog te sê van 'n tweede keer die jaar. Video: Sonia Wahl
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
