State of the Huis River

The Huis River is home to the last remaining population
of the Critically Endangered Tradouw redfin
– and so it’s essential to protect this river.

STATE OF THE
HUIS RIVER

The Huis River runs through the town of Barrydale – just upstream from the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy.

It’s important that the river’s health is pristine, so that the entire system benefits, including those downstream. The entire town of Barrydale is dependent on water from this river. Farms also use water from the river for agricultural purposes.

But while the river is vital for the Barrydale and farming communities, it’s also home to the last remaining population of Critically Endangered Tradouw redfin (Pseudobarbus burchelli). The Grootvadersbosch Conservancy team undertook river health assessments and collected fish data to better understand the health of the river. Here’s what we found.

The current state
of the riveR

The upper section of the river is in excellent condition, with diverse indigenous vegetation and only minimal invasive plants. It still supports a healthy population of Critically Endangered indigenous fish. A potential emerging threat is litter linked to unauthorised access.

As the river approaches the town, agricultural pressures become evident, with a noticeable increase in invasive plants and other disturbances, including litter and human waste. Ecological health declines further within the town. Indigenous fish are still present, but their health is affected by parasites and invasive fish. Downstream of the town, impacts remain present but are somewhat reduced due to ongoing riparian restoration and invasive plant management.

Recommended actions to be takeN

Secure the upper catchment with exclusion fencing and signage to limit access and disturbance.
Continue removing invasive plants in agricultural and urban areas.
Restore and maintain riparian buffers to reduce impact of runoff from agricultural and urban activities.
Monitor and maintain septic tanks to prevent leaks and flooding.
Raise awareness on responsible detergent and chemical use and proper septic tank care.
Educate communities to prevent the spread of invasive fish.

Read the full report here

SASS5 data and fish data collected in partnership with CapeNature and the Breede Olifants Overberg Catchment Management Agency
[email protected]

CONTACT THE
GROOTVADERSBOSCH CONSERVANCY

OFFICE HOURS: Mon to Thu: 7:30am to 5pm. Friday: 730 to 4pm. We are closed every second Friday.
MTB PERMITS: Available all hours at the Office (Cash in honesty box or Snapscan)

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