Wagendrift Dam, Arch dam in Estcourt, South Africa
Wagendrift Dam is an arch dam crossing the Bushman's River, standing 41 meters high and stretching 281 meters in length. The structure creates a large water body that enables fishing, boating, and other water-based activities in the region.
The dam was completed in 1963, taking its name from a historic ford used by transport wagons traveling toward the Witwatersrand during the gold rush era. Its construction marked a major shift in how the river valley was developed and managed for human use.
The reservoir serves as a gathering place for local fishers and water sports enthusiasts who rely on it for their outdoor pursuits. The shoreline areas reflect how people in the region spend their leisure time on and around the water.
Visitors should check on current water conditions before arriving and note that fishing may require a permit. The shoreline areas are fairly easy to access, though it is worth confirming local conditions beforehand.
The reservoir was classified with a hazard potential rating due to the massive amount of water it holds. This classification reflects the sheer scale and power of the dam as it manages enormous volumes of water daily.
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