Abstract
M.Sc.
The Vaal River Barrage reservoir (VRBR) was constructed by Rand Water in 1923 for the purpose
of ensuring an adequate raw water supply to meet the potable water requirements of the Pretoria,
Witwatersrand and Vaal Triangle regions, and today this is still the main purpose of this body of
water.
Due to the strategic importance of the Vaal River Barrage catchment and the impact of activities in
the catchment on water resources, it is seen as of the utmost importance for the authorities to make
a joint effort and co-ordinate action to solve problems in the catchment.
A number of different acts have reference to the management of the Barrage reservoir. These,
together with Rand Water’s internal policies, are collated and described to provide a reference
manual for the integrated management of the Vaal River Barrage reservoir. For completeness, all
relevant policies are attached as appendices to the document.