A suitably grassed waterway.
A waterway is a channel used for the disposal of runoff from contour banks. It forms a vital part of your Land Use Plan (LUP). It collects all excess runoff from contours and conveys this water safely to the natural drainage lines such as steams and natural water courses.
Please take note of these important considerations when establishing waterways:
- It must be sited straight down the slope at right angles to the natural contour line.
- It should preferably have a flat bottom base at a depth of about 450 mm.
- The dimensions will be determined by the catchment size.
- It must be planted with a runner type of grass.
- Waterways must be maintained by annually fertilising and regular mowing.
- Do not use waterways as roads.
- New and reconstructed waterways should be built during the drier months of the year.
A newly constructed waterway at right angles to the slope.
A new waterway protected with revetts to slow down water flow.
Contact your Extension Specialist for the correct placement and dimensions of waterways.
