During 1981, prospecting pits had been established to the north and the south of the estuary. Some of these fell within the “Public Resorts” area (Ref. 1).
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SPOEG RIVER ESTUARY: Land and Estuary Uses |
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Residential |
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In 1981,an estimated 13,000 people inhabit the coastal region, 90% of them living in the towns of Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Kleinsee, Koiingnaas and Hondeklip Bay. Public access to the coast is limited by poor road infrastructure and the tight security restrictions enforced by diamond-mining operations (Ref. 5). |
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Agricultural |
| Rough grazing as well as water supply for stock were the only known uses for the estuary in 1981 (Ref. 1). | |
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Industrial |
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During 1981, prospecting pits had been established to the north and the south of the estuary. Some of these fell within the “Public Resorts” area (Ref. 1). |
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Recreation |
| In 1981, the area around the mouth of the Spoeg River was a place of “public resort”. Local residents utilized the mouth area for picnicking (Ref. 1). | |
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Conservation |
| In 1981, there was not a single marine reserve on the west coast to protect this unique eco-region. The coast between Groen River and Spoeg River in Namaqualand has been set aside and it is hoped that it will be afforded protection in the near future (Ref. 2). | |
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