Cove
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Hypothesis
Urban growth increases pollution and changes the river’s flow.
Mapping
Crocodile river
Background information
The Crocodile River flows through the Mpumalanga province. It forms
part of the border between Mpumalanga and Limpopo before entering
Kruger National Park.
The area around the Crocodile River generally experiences a subtropical
climate. Summers (October to March) are hot and wet, with average
temperatures ranging from 25°C to over 30°C. Winters (April to
September) are dry and mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C at
night to around 24°C during the day. Annual rainfall averages between
600 mm to 1,200 mm, with most rain falling in summer months.
The vegetation along the Crocodile River is primarily savanna, featuring
bushveld and grasslands. Along the riverbanks, there are riparian forests
and dense reed beds. Common trees include fever trees, sycamore figs,
and river bushwillows.
The river flows from the highveld plateau eastward into the lowveld. The
upper reaches are characterized by undulating plains and gentle slopes.
As it descends into the lowveld, the topography flattens out with broad
floodplains and meandering channels. The escarpment to the west marks
a dramatic change in elevation and forms part of the river's watershed.
The river cuts through ancient geological formations, includs: Granite and
gneiss from the Basement Complex in the upper catchment. Sedimentary
rocks like sandstones and shales of the Karoo Supergroup in some areas.
In the lowveld, older rocks of the Barberton Greenstone Belt are present.
These rock formations influence soil fertility and the river's sediment load.
The Crocodile River is classified as a perennial river, meaning it flows
year-round. It is also a meandering river, particularly in its lower reaches
where it forms wide loops and oxbow lakes on the floodplain.
In its upper reaches near its source in the highveld around Dullstroom, the
river flows swiftly. Here, the gradient is steep, and the river cuts through
rocky terrain. Features include rapids, waterfalls, and narrow channels.
Erosion dominates this stage, deepening the river valley. As the river
flows eastward, it enters a gentler gradient around Nelspruit (Mbombela).
The river begins to meander slightly, and lateral erosion becomes more
prominent. Small floodplains start to develop. Tributaries such as the
Elands River join it, increasing its volume.
Data collection questionnaires
1
questi How long have you lived near the Crocodile River?
on
answe Over 10 years
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2
questi Have you noticed an increase in housing or industrial development near the Crocodile
on River in the past 10 years?
answe Yes, there has been significant growth, especially around Nelspruit (Mbombela) and
r surrounding towns.
3
questi What types of urban development have you observed?
on
answe Housing complexes, shopping centers, small industries, and expanded road networks.
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4
questi How close are these developments to the river
on
answe Many developments are within 1-5 kilometers from the riverbanks.
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5
questi Have you noticed changes in the water quality of the river over the years?
on
answe Yes, the water appears more polluted, with visible waste and sometimes unusual
r discoloration.
6
questi What types of pollution have you observed?
on
answe lastic waste, sewage discharge, agricultural runoff (pesticides and fertilizers), and
r occasional chemical spills.
7
questi Have you or anyone you know experienced health problems you believe are linked to
on river pollution?
answe es, some community members have reported skin irritations and stomach illnesses
r believed to be caused by contact with or use of river water.
8
questi Are there enough waste disposal and sewage treatment facilities in your area?
on
answe No, existing facilities are often inadequate or poorly maintained, leading to direct
r discharge into the river.
9
questi Have you noticed any changes in the flow of the Crocodile River
on
answe Yes, the river seems to have more frequent low-flow periods,
r and there have been incidents of both flooding and drought.