Overberg farmers grateful for rain

Farmers have welcomed the recent rain in the Overberg district of the southern Cape. Bredasdorp received 20mm, the Strandveld between 80mm and 100mm, and Riviersonderend 25mm. Caledon recieved between 8mm and 10mm. “These rains are still relevant to the current grain crop, as our planting season was two weeks later than usual,” said Willie Smal chairperson of the Overberg District Agricultural Association (ODAA). “Sheep feed is also scarce but the rain will alleviate that.” D irk Uys, vice chairperson of the ODAA who measured 20mm on his farm Komarsekraal outside Bredasdorp, agreed with Smal. “We planted later than usual, so there is no crop damage. If it rains during harvest season you still need to be grateful as it will secure feed for the coming summer.” R ichard Krige, who farms on Boontjieskraal outside Caledon, said rain should never be wished away, referring to farmers elsewhere in the Western Cape who had said that they’ve had enough rain. “I’m pleased with the September rain we had of about 53mm,” said Krige. – Wouter Kriel