Industrial harvester arrives to tackle Kariba weed at Lonehill Dam
The persistent Kariba weed at Lonehill Dam may soon be a thing of the past as an industrial aquatic harvester is now on site, promising to 'mow' away the invasive growth.
After months of frustration and persistent efforts, Lonehill residents finally see a glimmer of hope for their beloved Lonehill Dam.
The invasive Kariba weed that has plagued the waterway for over half a year is set to be tackled head-on with the arrival of specialised industrial equipment.
Ward 94 councillor David Foley confirmed the arrival of the aquatic harvester, a piece of machinery he initially requested back in November 2024.
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Foley explained the previous struggles in removing the tenacious weed. “We’ve tried various initiatives, with local teams trying to remove the Kariba weed, as well as Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) coming here for at least three and a half weeks, removing three skips full, but it didn’t make any difference.”
The newly arrived aquatic harvester, described by Foley as: ‘Industrial equipment’, is poised to offer a more effective solution.
Starting May 5, this aquatic harvester will begin cleaning the dam. “This will be like mowing the lawn. It’ll suck all the Kariba weed up, and we will get rid of it, of course, until it starts growing again.”
Also read: Over R100 000 needed to clean up foreign plant covering Lonehill Dam
However, Foley is also looking towards more sustainable solutions to prevent the weed’s return. “Based on that temporary solution, I’ve requested that they approve some eco blocks, which can be put into the water. They purify the water, keep it clean, and remove the nitrates, which then will keep it clear. So, this Kariba weed will not grow going forward.”
The Lonehill Residents Association (LRA) spokesperson, Shelly Miller, echoed the excitement surrounding the harvester’s arrival. “We reported on social media a couple of weeks ago that JCPZ had committed to delivering an amphibious harvester in May, for 20 days, to assist with the removal of the Kariba weed in the Lonehill Dam. The harvester has arrived.”
Read more: Lonehill Dam’s foreign plant clean up comes to a halt due to lack of equipment
Describing the functionality of the equipment, Miller explained: “The harvester is designed to float on the water and tackle invasive weeds, like the Kariba weed. It features cutting blades that sever the underwater weeds. They are then transported to the surface using conveyor belts.”
Miller expressed her gratitude. “Our thanks to JCPZ for their commitment and support with this project. We cannot wait to see the beautiful, clear water of our Lonehill Dam once again.”
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