Rhodes University context
Erythrina lysistemon (photo: P Crous)
Rhodes University recognises that it is situated within a broader socio-ecological context that influences its sustainability. The tertiary education institution, established in 1904, lies in the city of Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality, Eastern Cape. It is a diverse area in terms of culture, climate and biodiversity.
Grahamstown environment
The town was established around a number of small streams - commonly referred to as the ‘Kowie Ditches’ - which form part of the upper catchment of the Blaauwkranz/Bloukrans River (Xhosa: Amatyana), a tributary of the Kowie River (Xhosa: iQoyi). Many of the streams are highly modified and polluted by the time they enter the Blaauwkranz River. The outlet from the city’s sewage treatment works also flows into the Blaauwkranz River - which waters the Belmont Valley, a vegetable growing area south of Grahamstown.
In terms of biodiversity, four main biomes meet around Grahamstown, namely, Eastern Cape thicket, grassy fynbos, semi-arid karoo, and sourveld grassland. There are also patches of afro-montaine forest, mainly on the relatively cooler south-facing slopes of the Rietberge which lie to the south of Grahamstown. The dominant soil type is clay, which is relatively infertile, shifting into acid soils in the surrounding hills - home of the grassy sourveld.
In terms of climate, Grahamstown is located in transition zone between a mediteranean climate (from the west) and the temperate zone (from the east). It is also on the cusp between the dry interior and the relatively higher rainfall coastal belt. The annual rainfall ranges between approximately 940 mm and 400 mm, and periodic droughts present challenges to a growing population. The Oviston Tunnel, carrying Orange River water from the Gariep Dam to the Great Fish River system in the Eastern Cape, has relieved some of the pressure on local water supplies. However, hydrological experts have stated that the Gariep water is already over-allocated.
- Check Rainfall and Weather patterns in Grahamstown.
- CARBON FOOTPRINT: Choose a 'Carbon Calculator' to give an idea of your level of impact on the environment.
- ENVIRONMENTAL 'SUGGESTION BOX': Do you have any ideas which could help Rhodes University to become more environmentally friendly? If so, send your comments and suggestions to environment(at)ru.ac.za - thank you!
Go to the Rhodes University ENVIRONMENT front page. Suggestions/Questions? Contact environment(at)ru.ac.za
