Coast KZN

State of the Coast: KZN
State of the Coast: KZN

State of the Coast: KwaZulu-Natal Chapter 1: Introduction & Background Chapter 2: Overarching Drivers Chapter 3: Climate Variability
Chapter 4: Coastal Environment Chapter 5: Estuarine Environment Chapter 6: Marine Environment Chapter 7: Human Environment Chapter 8: Economic Environment
Chapter 9: Governance Environment Chapter 10: Conclusions
The Profile of the KZN Coast
The Profile of the KZN Coast

Ugu Lwethu- Our Coast Defining the Coastal Zone The Physical and Coastal Environment Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
Coastal and Marine Species Migrations The Human Dimension Socio-Economic Uses of the Coast Commercial Resource Uses
Pressures and Threats Management of the Coastal and Marine Environments Understanding our Coast
Coastal access
Coastal access

Access RoutesBoat Launch SitesThe Human DimensionCoastal Access: Stats & Facts
Estuaries
Estuaries

What is an Estuary? Know your Estuaries Estuary Health and Conservation KZN Estuary Observer Programme
Historical Time Series Estuary Mouth Status Sand Mining
Recreation
Recreation

Fish TaggingAccess RoutesBlue Flag Beaches
Coastal risk and vulnerability
Coastal risk and vulnerability

Coastal Risk LinesExtreme EventsCoastal ErosionKZN Coastal Vulnerability IndexPollution
Coastal issues
Coastal issues

PollutionSand MiningCoastal ErosionNurdlesUPL Chemical Spill
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05 May 2017

KZN Coastal management in the spotlight

Dave Savides (Zululand Observer)

Coastal erosion, which is a major problem north of Richards Bay, is one of the priority sections in the CMP

“Saving the KZN coast gets top priority “

Beach driving was one of the many local issues noted at a Draft KZN Coastal Management Programme (CMP) workshopped at the City of uMhlathuze auditorium on Tuesday.

A team led by the provincial Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DEDTEA) addressed stakeholders on proposed new management of the coast and beaches.

With the vision of ‘a vibrant, healthy and safe coast with sustainable access to resources for all’, the need for protection and appropriate utilisation of KZN’s 580km of shoreline – exposed to a range of pressures and risks – requires wise planning and effective management.

 

There are 76 estuaries in the province, where fresh water from rivers meets the sea to provide unique habitats

While the various presentations did provide valuable information, locals were aggrieved it was not specific to this area and its unique challenges.

The absence of notable key role players including the RBIDZ, TNPA, Ezemvelo, ZCCI and shore angling fraternity was noted with concern, while the fact the Port of Richards Bay appears to be seen as a separate entity in terms of coastal management, was strongly criticised.

Concern was expressed over ‘unfunded mandates’, where municipalities are given responsibilities without having the necessary resources or budgets.

Copies of the draft CMP are available at public libraries and the public input and comment period extends to 30 June.

Nine areas of study and action were identified, and priorities will be attended to on the basis of ‘timing and funding’:

The team presenting the draft CMP on Tuesday included Bonisiwe Sithole, Omar Parak, Brian Khoza (all DEDTEA), Bronwyn Goble (ORI), Rod Bulman (Phelamanga), Alfred Matsheke (DEDTEA), Rose Owen (Phelamanga) and Nozuko Mhlongo (DEDTEA)
Photo: Dave Savides

 

Online article