Welbedacht Dam

The Welbedacht Dam extends 230 meters across the Caledon River, creating a reservoir that stretches 43 kilometers in the Free State province.

Constructed in 1973, the dam experienced a rapid decline in its storage capacity, losing 50 percent of its volume to sedimentation within the first five years.

The dam forms an essential part of the Caledon-Modder River Government Water Scheme, supplying water to numerous communities in the Free State region.

Six radial gates operate as spillways with their base positioned 15 meters above the original river bed, managing water flow from the 15,285 square kilometer catchment area.

The reservoir receives an annual sediment inflow of 15 million tons, consisting primarily of fine silt and clay particles that affect water treatment processes.

Location: Free State

Height: 32 m

GPS coordinates: -29.90940,26.86047

Latest update: November 2, 2025 07:09