Roodeplaat Dam, Arch dam in City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa

Roodeplaat Dam is a concrete arch dam on the Pienaars River, about 20 km northeast of Pretoria. Its wall is 143 m long and 28.3 m high, impounding 40 million m³ over 403 ha. Water spills evenly across the crest, streaking the grey face white and pale green above a green pool at the base.

Construction of this dam began in 1955 and was completed in 1959, addressing growing water supply needs for the northern region. The project represented a major step forward in South Africa's infrastructure development during that period.

The name Roodeplaat comes from the Afrikaans for "red plate," after the reddish rock slabs at the site. Fishing, motorboating, water skiing and canoeing are practised on the water, and the dam is a popular recreation spot for people from Pretoria, about 20 km to the southwest.

The dam is easily accessible with several areas for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing from the shoreline. Arriving early or visiting in the afternoon provides the best conditions and avoids crowds.

The site hosts a specialized facility that monitors water quality across South Africa's national water system. This research center operates quietly in the background, collecting data to ensure the country's water resources remain protected.