As winter draws to a close and rainfall in key catchment areas remains below average, pressure is mounting on water resources across Drakenstein.
The Municipality is urging residents, businesses and the agricultural sector to use water responsibly and to do their part to safeguard local water resources.
"Responsible water use is critical to ensure long-term water security," says Louis Pienaar, Executive Director: Engineering Services at Drakenstein Municipality.
By 27 July 2026, the combined storage of the dams supplying Drakenstein, namely the Voëlvlei Dam, Berg River Dam, Wemmershoek Dam, Bethel Dam and Nantes Dam, stood at 78.6%, compared to 83.7% at the same time last year. Drakenstein recorded only 557 mm this winter compared to the average expected rainfall of 738 mm.
While dam levels are closely monitored, the Municipality stresses that proactive water conservation remains the most effective way to reduce pressure on available supplies and strengthen resilience ahead of the summer months.
Every litre saved today helps protect the region's water resources and reduces the likelihood of stricter water restrictions in the future.
Water security is everyone's responsibility
Drakenstein Municipality continues to implement its Water Conservation and Demand Management Strategy, which includes pressure management, rapid response to reported leaks and ongoing infrastructure upgrades aimed at reducing water losses.
Residents can support these efforts by adopting simple water-saving habits at home and in their daily activities.
How you can help
Report water leaks via the SeeClickFix app or by calling the Municipality's 24-hour toll-free number on 080 131 3553.
By making water-wise choices every day, residents can help protect Drakenstein's water supply and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
As the region faces an uncertain rainfall outlook, the Municipality is calling on everyone to work together to make every drop count.
