Wind farms are changing the work of bird conservationists
The work of conservationists now helps decide not only what should be protected, but where and how energy infrastructure should be built.
Naomi Roebert
Karoo municipalities still under scrutiny despite Treasury releasing funds
The release of the July money lowers the immediate risk of disruption for Karoo residents. The larger question is still unanswered: whether the affected councils can correct the problems before the next funding decision arrives in December.
The Karoo economy is entering a period of change
Renewable energy, specialised agriculture, tourism and science are likely to feed into the Karoo economy over the next 20 years. The real test will be whether major investments create lasting local businesses and skills or simply pass through the region.
The town built around a monthly journey to church
The church standing today is the grand successor to the modest building around which Calitzdorp first formed. The reason for the town’s emergence is wonderfully practical: people needed somewhere closer to gather, and Calitzdorp grew from that need, one returning wagon at a time.
Could indigenous plants create new income for Karoo farms?
There may be opportunities in medicinal plants, essential oils, indigenous seed and waterwise nursery stock. The most promising businesses will be those that grow plants responsibly while protecting the wild populations already under pressure.
The transport crisis facing rural schoolchildren
Access to education in the Karoo is measured in kilometres. Until every qualifying child has a safe and reliable way to cross that distance, the journey to school will remain part of South Africa’s education crisis.
Why good grazing does not always mean an easy year for Karoo farmers
These gains strengthen Karoo livestock farming, but they come after a prolonged period in which many producers sold animals or spent heavily to keep core herds alive.