LUVUVHU RIVER: Topography, geology and soils

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TOPOGRAPHY

The topography in the north-east (Luvuvhu/Letaba) varies from high mountains through low mountains and foothills to the low lying plains in the east. The eastern Soutpansberg extend to the western  characteristic wide plains of the Lowveld. The predominant topographical feature in the Luvuvhu River Basin is the Soutpansberg mountain range. Its highest points and steepest slopes are situated in the upper portion of the Luvuvhu catchment. This has a profound effect on the hydrology of the rest of the catchment with significant higher rainfall a result of the topographic influence.Ref.1.

GEOLOGY

The geology is varied and complex and consists mainly of sedimentary rocks in the north and metamorphic and igneous rocks in the south. High quality coal deposits are found near Tshikondeni and in the northern part of the Kruger National Park, whilst the eastern limb of the mineral rich Bushveld Igneous Complex touches on the southern parts of the water management area. With the exception of sandy aquifers in the Limpopo River Valley, the formation is of relatively low water-bearing capacity. (Ref.1)

SOILS

A wide spectrum of soils occur in the water management area, with sandy soils most common.(Ref.1)

References

Ref.1. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, South Africa. 2004. Luvuvhu/Letaba Water Management Area: Internal Strategic Perspective. Prepared by Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd in association with Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS on behalf of the Directorate: National Water Resource Planning. DWAF Report No. P WMA 02/000/00/0304.

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