The surge in potato prices witnessed at the end of 2023 may become a new norm if water usage restrictions are enforced on farmers in the Western Cape’s Sandveld region. The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has proposed a water reserve determination for the F60 and G30 catchments in the Berg-Olifants water management area. This reserve sets a baseline for water availability, guiding extraction limits for all users.

In May, the DWS published the draft reserve determination in the government gazette. Citing figures on water availability, the DWS suggests a 30% reduction in water extraction by farmers to ensure sufficient water for the area's population and environment. This measure could see 30% of the potato-growing hectares in the Sandveld go out of production, causing a fourfold increase in potato prices.

"South Africa experienced the consequences of reduced potato production late last year. Due to loadshedding, farmers planted 1,600 fewer hectares, resulting in a 173% price increase when market supply dipped. The average price jumped from R42.87 to R72.92 per 10kg bag," said FP Coetzee, Potatoes SA’s manager of information and regional services. He warned that a 30% cut in agricultural water use could reduce production by 2,100 hectares, triggering a catastrophic price rise.

Potatoes SA supports water conservation efforts and agrees with the Department on the need for water management in the designated catchments. However, they caution against imposing a reserve beyond what is necessary for ecological stability. "The implications are profound. Potatoes will become unaffordable for those relying on them for food security. This, coupled with economic damage, could lead to job losses, social unrest, migration, and economic disparity," said Willie Jacobs, CEO of Potatoes SA.

According to Potatoes SA, around 57 farmers cultivating nearly 6,000 hectares and employing over 6,000 people would be affected by the reserve determination. The Sandveld is one of the few regions producing potatoes year-round, ensuring a stable supply across the country. With production in neighboring provinces approximately 700km away, Western Cape's fresh produce markets depend heavily on Sandveld potatoes. Local government also stands to lose tax and VAT revenue, potentially dropping by R300 million annually.

Farming in the Sandveld has been under pressure since the 2015 drought, with unfounded claims that agricultural water use caused the Verlorenvlei, a Ramsar site, to dry up. Hydrogeologists within the DWS attributed it to natural drought consequences. Since the drought ended in 2022, the Verlorenvlei’s water levels have recovered. The core issue with the reserve determination is that water level figures are not based on scientific data. "The DWS admits that some catchments lack water level monitoring. The Verlorenvlei’s meter has been broken since 2017. Assumptions about water levels are risky, endangering farmers, people, and the environment," said Jacobs.

Monique Vlok, chairperson of the Sandveld Potato Producers Association, argued that the outcry over the Verlorenvlei drying up stemmed from a misguided perception of farmers depleting resources. "Farmers need water to grow crops, which provides food and is not used irresponsibly. We aim to protect natural resources for future generations, focusing on sustainable practices to maximize water use efficiency."

Data from the Water Footprint Calculator shows that potatoes have the lowest water footprint among staple crops, requiring only 34 litres per 113 grams, compared to 276 litres for the same amount of rice, 144 litres for maize, and 182 litres for bread. This makes a strong case for allocating water to potato farming to ensure food security.

Jacobs emphasized that farmers share concerns about sustainable water use. "No farmer wants environmental degradation. The Verlorenvlei is precious and must be preserved, which requires a scientific approach to water management. Proper monitoring is essential to establish a baseline for water use. We must also consider seasonal fluctuations to use water most efficiently. This requires DWS to implement regular monitoring and seasonal allocations. With climate change increasing rainfall volatility, this is crucial for preserving resources and ensuring food security."

Jacobs suggested that DWS explore more efficient water management strategies, integrated water resource management, and training for those involved in water management on potato farms. "These measures could achieve ecological goals without harming the potato industry and broader community."

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