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ODMP Hydrology and Water Resources Inception Report
ODMP Hydrology and Water Resources Inception Report
INCEPTION REPORT
December 2003
INCEPTION REPORT
List of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
1.2 Organisation
1.3 Inaugural Workshop and Steering Committee
1.4 Technical Task Force
1.5 Report Structure
3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Okavango River Basin and Delta
3.2 Analysis of Existing Conditions
3.3 ODMP Impact Analysis
3.4 Capacity Building in DWA
4 ACTIVITIES
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Data Collection and Processing
4.3 Monitoring Programme
4.4 DWA Modelling Unit
4.5 Topographic Model
4.6 Integrated Hydrologic Model
4.7 Model Application
4.8 Reporting
4.9 Related Okavango Delta Projects
5 INPUTS
5.1 Project Staffing
5.1.1 Consultants
5.1.2 Proposed Staff Changes
5.1.3 DWA Staff
5.2 Equipment
5.2.1 Project Vehicles
5.2.2 Computer Hardware
5.2.3 Computer Software
5.2.4 Office Furniture and Equipment
5.2.5 Monitoring
5.3 Project Finances
5.3.1 Introduction
5.3.2 Danida Project Finances
5.3.3 GoB Support to DWA
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Project Reports
Scientific Papers
List of Figures
1.1 ODMP Components
1.2 Project Organisation
List of Tables
5.1 Local Travel Expenses
5.2 DWA Finances
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Hydrology and Water Resources is one of the ten components of the Okavango
Delta Management Plan (ODMP), for which NCSA has overall responsibility. The
component is implemented by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). Together
with the Research and Data Management component implemented by HOORC, the
Hydrology and Water Resources component is supported jointly by the
Governments of Botswana through the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and
Tourism, and Denmark through Danida. The Danida support is implemented by
Scanagri Denmark A/S and its international and national subconsultants.
In parallel with ODMP, the two components commenced on 1st May 2003 with a
duration of 39 months. The day to day management is carried out by the Team
Leader, supported by national and international specialists each with a series of
short term inputs in various specialities covering information technology, biology,
water resources and remote sensing.
The Team Leader’s long term input is 18 months up to May 2005, thereafter two
months for short term support up to the end of the ODMP project in July 2006. The
Project Office is in DWA, Gaborone, including the DWA Modelling Unit, which
will be the focus for the establishment of the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the
delta.
The ODMP Project Steering Committee is responsible for overseeing the entire
management plan. Technical Task Forces are being constituted for each of the two
components, with the broad role to monitor progress, and guide implementation.
Monitoring
Basic information on the hydrology of the Okavango Delta is essential for the
management plan to comprehend the processes at work in shaping the delta. The
component has gone to considerable lengths to collect and evaluate these data and
information.
The existing DWA hydrology network in the delta is extensive, though the quality
of the data is poor. The main problems are access to the gauging sites along the
river systems, and disturbance of the stations by wild animals and theft by humans.
The water level gauge boards are not related to a common datum. Overall quality
control is lacking, also with respect to archiving and post processing of the data.
Data collection platforms with automatic sensors and satellite transmission of the
data have fallen into disrepair.
Ground water monitoring in and around the delta is limited to the area around
Maun. The two main holders of data, DWA and DGS, use different databases with
different formats. These should be made compatible. There are no boreholes in the
inner delta, and very few along the eastern margin.
DWA requested DSM to carry out a high accuracy GPS survey of the gauge board
bench marks in the delta, of which there are around 70. Logistic support in the form
of guides, vehicles and boats was provided by DWA. This proved a major
undertaking, and demonstrates a solid cooperation between the two departments.
Emphasising the importance with which DWA regards the ODMP, the survey for an
urgently needed water supply reservoir in the east has been postponed in favour of
the delta survey.
Comprehensive recommendations have been prepared to improve the monitoring
and provide a solid database comprising long term systematic data that capture the
range of hydrologic events, and sequences of events. The data cover the key
systems in the delta: climatic, surface and ground water, and sediment transport.
DWA has a budget of BWP1,390,000 to implement the programme. While
specialist assistance is required for the design and installation, the methods
proposed can be carried out by DWA technical field staff, subject to a review of
staff numbers and training needs.
Topographic Model
The topographic or digital elevation model of the delta will provide the basic terrain
information for the Integrated Hydrologic Model. Remote sensing data and
analyses will be employed to create and validate information on the topography.
The approach combines various data sources including radar altimetry, contour
extraction from shorelines and vegetation maps.
Landsat images provide the basic data, with a resolution of 30m; a large number of
images has been provided by HOORC, as well as a vegetation map. It is anticipated
that the vertical accuracy of the model will be better than ±1.0m.
Related Projects
There are several related projects in the Okavango Delta, recently initiated: the
UNDP/GEF Environmental Protection and Sustainable Management of the
Okavango River Basin, the EU TwinBas basin twinning research project, the
Leseding Project from the University of the Free State focussing on fish ecology
and livelihood sustainability, the Tiger Participation project with the European
Space Agency remotely monitoring the delta and feasibility studies for the Popa
Falls hydropower project.
The Project will cooperate fully with these projects, to enhance outputs and more
closely realise the objectives of ODMP, and an integration of the management of
the entire river basin.
Project Finances
The components are financed jointly by the Governments of Botswana and
Denmark. Danida funds are available for disbursement by the Consultants
according to the planned cash flow. DWA has recently established the procedure
for disbursement of government funds for the procurement of services and
equipment for the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Hydrology and Water Resources comprises one of the ten components of the
Okavango Delta Management Plan (ODMP), as shown in figure 1.1. The
component is supported jointly by the Government of the Republic of Botswana,
and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark through Danida, alongside the
Research and Data Management1 component.
The Danida support is shared between the two components, and is implemented by
Scanagri Denmark A/S and its subconsultants. These are from Denmark DHI
Water and Environment and Hedeselskabet, from South Africa CSIR, and from
Botswana Liebenberg and Stander, and Engineering Hydrological and
Environmental Services Pty Ltd. The contract with Danida was signed on 20th
December 2002, and the two components commenced on 1st May 2003, with the
arrival of the Team Leader in Gaborone. The two components have a planned
duration of 39 months, to 1st August 2006.
This Inception Report focuses on the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
A separate Inception Report is issued for the Research and Data Management
component.
1.2 Organisation
The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT) is the Executive
Agency having overall national responsibility for the ODMP. The Implementing
Agency is the National Conservation Strategy Agency (NCSA), under the MEWT.
The principal beneficiaries are NCSA and the Department of Water Affairs (DWA)
of the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources. A number of other
organisations will also benefit from the project, in particular the Harry
Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre (HOORC) of the University of Botswana.
The organisation of the two components is shown in figure 1.2. The Consultants’
team comprises a long term Team Leader and international and national specialists
each with a series of short term inputs in various fields including information
technology, biology, water resources and remote sensing. The day to day
management of the Component is carried out by the Team Leader, with a total input
of 20 months over the 39 month project period. The Team Leader has additional
responsibilities in respect of technical input to the Hydrology and Water Resources
component.
The Team Leader is responsible for coordination with the Director of DWA, the
Director of HOORC and through the Project Management Group, the Executive
Secretary of NCSA. The schedule, outputs and activities of each stage of the
specialists’ inputs are coordinated by the Team Leader, to whom the specialists are
responsible.
1
This component has been referred to previously as Research, Data Management and Training. As
training is not an output from this component, but is a primary output from the Communications
component, the title of component II is amended to Research and Data Management.
4. Wildlife management
Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP)
5. Sustainable tourism
Department of Tourism (DoT)
7. Vegetation resources
Department of Crop Production and Forestry (DCPF),
in association with Agricult ural Resources Board (ARB)
8. Physical planning
Department of Town and Regional Planning (DTRP)
In both cases, the meeting decided to refer the matter to a meeting with Danida to
be arranged the following week. In the event, both issues were resolved through
further discussions convened by the PMG, without the need to involve Danida.
Working Paper. Chapter 5 describes the Inputs, provided and planned, from DWA
and the Consultants, in terms of human resources, equipment and financial
resources. Finally, chapter 6 summarises the key issues for the component, with
recommended actions to address the issues.
The Logical Framework Assessment for the ODMP is presented in Annex A, and a
list of the Working Papers with a brief description of the contents in Annex B.
2.1 Objective
The development objective of the Okavango Delta Management Plan is integrated
resource management for the Okavango Delta that will ensure its long term
conservation, and that will provide benefits for the present and future well-being of
the people, through sustainable use of its natural resources.
In line with the development objective, immediate objectives for the two Danida
supported components are:
• A comprehensive, integrated management plan for the conservation
and sustainable use of the Okavango Delta and surrounding areas
• Existing data, information and knowledge available in appropriate
formats and a timely manner to support the development and
initiated implementation of the Okavango Delta Management Plan
• Improved water resources planning, monitoring and evaluation in the
Okavango Delta, based on an enhanced capacity of the Department
of Water Affairs
The following section sets out the outputs leading to realisation of the foregoing
objectives. The objectives and outputs are set out in the ODMP Logical
Framework Assessment which is reproduced in Annex A with references to the
report text, and remarks on adjustments to the outputs and activities.
2.2 Outputs
The following are the planned outputs for the Research and Data Management
component of ODMP:
(1) A data registration, storage and management system in HOORC.
(2) Baseline data on the traditional and current use of the natural resources
of the delta available in appropriate formats and in a timely manner.
(3) A research strategy for HOORC, directing research activities over a 5 to
10 year period towards the sustainable management of the natural
resources of the Okavango Delta.
(4) Results of research and analyses carried out by HOORC and other
organisations published on a regular basis.
Two outputs which are not now part of the Danida supported component are:
participatory planning which is supported by DED and HOORC’s own resources;
and training coordination which will be carried out under the Communications
component.
The following are the planned outputs for the Hydrology and Water Resources
component of ODMP:
(1) A comprehensive quality controlled database comprising existing
climatic, hydrologic, surface water, ground water and sediment data for
the Okavango Delta.
3 METHODOLOGY
Upstream Catchment
A map of the Okavango River Basin is shown in figure 3.1. The Okavango River
has its principal origin in the Cubango River which rises in the central highlands of
Angola. The annual rainfall is around 1,000mm, falling mainly in January to
March. The river flows some 600km through narrow steep sided valleys before
reaching the Kalahari sand zone just upstream of the border with Namibia. At this
point the river becomes the Okavango, and flows eastwards some 400km through a
wide valley.
The one major tributary to the mainstream, the Cuito River, also rises in the
Angolan highlands, and joins the Okavango near Katere along the border with
Namibia. The lower reaches of the Cuito River have wide flood plains, and the
flood wave is attenuated relative to that in the Cubango River. In Namibia, several
tributaries enter the Okavango River, principal among which is the Omatako
Omarumba. These are highly ephemeral, and contribute little flow to the main
river.
Near Mukwe, the Okavango River turns south east crossing the Caprivi Strip for
around 55km, entering Botswana near Mohembo. Upstream the channel is
confined within a narrow valley, until it flows over the Popa Falls with a drop
around four metres 25km upstream of Mohembo. Below the falls, the river enters a
wide flood plain with grasses and reeds.
Hydrogeology
The Okavango River and Delta lie within the Kalahari Basin, a great depression in
the interior of southern Africa mainly filled with the wind-blown Kalahari Sands
creating a sandstone formation. The delta is an alluvial fan overlying the Kalahari
Sands, and forming an unconfined aquifer hundreds of metres deep. The
downstream limit of the delta is demarcated by the Thamalakane Fault.
During the flood period from May to August and the rainfall period from December
to February, the aquifer is charged with infiltrating water from the swamps and
flood plains. The upstream part is more or less permanently saturated.
Downstream there is an unsaturated zone with the water table increasing in depth
largely owing to abstraction and diminished seasonal flooding. The middle reaches
are a transition zone wetting and drying according to the season and the magnitude
of the flood and rainfall.
Panhandle
A map of the delta with key features is shown in figure 3.2. Popa Falls on the river
in Namibia marks the upstream boundary of the Panhandle. The river is laterally
confined by geological faults and sand ridges to a flood plain up to 15km wide.
The plain has reeds and grasses, much of which is permanently submerged, and
islands with mature trees. The river channel meanders across the flood plain,
varying in width from around 50 to 100m wide, and 5 to 6m deep.
Corresponding to the upstream rainfall, the flood wave has a duration from January
to June, with its peak around the end of March. There are several minor channels
breaking off from the main channel through the reeds, running in parallel across the
flood plain and rejoining the main channel downstream. The bed material is fine to
medium sand, and the water is clear with a very low concentration of suspended
sediments, even in flood.
At the downstream limit of the Panhandle, which is not clearly defined, between the
towns of Sepupa on the right bank and Seronga on the left, the Okavango River
starts to break up into its primary distributaries, marking the start of the delta.
Okavango Delta
The upstream delta is characterised by the main Okavango River flowing through
extensive papyrus swamps, bifurcating into distributary channels which convey the
Okavango
ETSHA
Nqoga
Khwai
Thaoge Jao
Mboroga
GUMARE Gomoti
Xudum Santan
tadibe
Boro
Thamalakane
MAUN
Xudum
Boteti
Nhabe
flow on to extensive perennial flood plains. The transfer of flow between the river
and flood plains is highly dynamic depending on the period of the flood from
upstream, and the rainfall over the delta.
The primary distributaries are from west to east the Thaoge, which is dying owing
to declining inflows, the Jao leading into the Boro which is in all but exceptional
floods the sole path for surface water outflow from the delta, and the Maunachira
leading into the Khwai, which appears to be gaining in importance, though in
normal flood years has no outflow, ie the waters either evaporate or infiltrate.
Of the three main distributaries, the Thaoge River in the west terminates in a series
of lagoons and extensive flood plains near its upstream end. The Boro River
upstream flows through lagoons and flood plains; downstream it is a single
confined channel, discharging to the Thamalakane. The Khwai River in the east
has wide permanent flood plains along its entire length, and secondary
distributaries, though with no outflow.
The travel time of the flood wave through the delta is from four to five months,
with the upstream peak occurring around the end of March, and the peak
downstream around mid August.
Outflow
The course of the Thamalakane River follows the Thamalakane Fault line which
runs perpendicular to the delta and demarcates its downstream limit. The river
flows south west, and functions as a collector drain for the distributaries from
upstream. In recent years, the sole contributor has been the Boro River. At the
flood peak the Thamalakane River has dried out and succumbed to evaporation and
infiltration in the town of Maun.
In exceptional flood years, flow in the lower Boro bifurcates into the Xudum and
other minor distributaries discharging to the Thamalakane. Flow in the eastern
Maunachira River bifurcates into the Mboroga River and may also reach the
Thamalakane. Subsequently, flow from the Thamalakane bifurcates downstream of
Maun into the Boteti River, and from thence downstream to the Makgadikgadi
Pans, and into the Nhabe River and downstream to Lake Ngami. This flow has not
been observed since 1987.
Model Limitations
The Integrated Hydrologic Model for application to ODMP represents the state-of-
the-art in modelling technology. It does have limitations in respect of its ability to
represent certain phenomena influencing the development of the delta:
• The level of detail and accuracy will be limited, not by the
technology, but by the data and time available for its development.
If improved data are available, these may be incorporated in the
model, and overall improvements in the outputs achieved.
• The model will not simulate the formation of new channels, and the
realignment of existing channels. This requires a two dimensional
model (in plan), and is only appropriate for application to particular
river reaches.
Thus intercomparisons can be made among the various model output parameters to
assess the impact of management plan scenarios. The flood distribution and extent,
and ground water distribution will be the main parameters to compare. Other key
indicators such as soil moisture may be suggested by other aspects of the
management plan. These may be related to the biodiversity and vegetation type,
which may be more meaningful for interpretation, though the relationships will be
the subject of research and development.
Staff Selection
Four staff for the Modelling Unit have been assigned by DWA comprising a senior
hydrologist-engineer and a hydrogeologist, and two recent graduates who have
shown promise and enthusiasm to acquire the new modelling skills. The two
categories will complement each other: the senior staff providing knowledge and
experience of the hydrology and hydraulics of Botswana and the delta; and the
junior staff bringing an ability to learn quickly and adapt readily to the new
technology and tasks.
The senior staff have been freed from other responsibilities within DWA, to devote
substantial and sufficient time to the work of the Modelling Unit such that they are
fully involved in the work, and in the longer term can carry out the operations
independently. The individual staff should be assigned specific responsibilities,
along the lines proposed in the working paper on Capacity Building in DWA.
Needs Assessment
Following the assignment of the staff for the Modelling Unit, a training needs
assessment will be carried out. This will be conducted by the management of the
Hydrology Division and the Team Leader, who will jointly interview the proposed
staff and assess their present experience and that required for the Modelling Unit.
The formal training programme will be tailored accordingly, within the scope of the
available resources, to bring the staff to the level required for the exacting tasks.
Progress Monitoring
The progress of the staff of the Modelling Unit in assimilating the data management
and modelling technology will be assessed periodically by the managers of the
Hydrology Division and the Team Leader. Any need for a change in emphasis or
direction, or additional resources will be identified, and corresponding
recommendations made.
External Support
The DWA Modelling Unit will be established in the context of the present
component, and in addition to the guidance and supervision from the international
consultants, will have the support of national consultants. A close association with
the university and HOORC will also be developed to provide support on the
academic front.
The national consultants will be actively involved in setting up the Integrated
Hydrologic Model, and at the end of the Project they will be well placed to offer
prompt support in case any particular problem arises which the DWA staff are
unable to handle, or to supplement the capacity should there be temporary or even
longer term staff shortages.
HOORC research staff already have considerable expertise in hydrologic
modelling, and should be involved closely in the activities of the modelling unit.
They may also provide support to the longer term activities of the modelling unit.
The hydrologic software which will be employed for the delta model has general
and widespread applicability, and is under continual development at DHI. For the
duration of the component, DHI will provide “hotline” support and upgrades.
Thereafter, support is available at an additional cost.
The sustainability of the Modelling Unit will be enhanced if it is seen as
functioning in the wider context of firstly the Botswana and secondly the
international water and engineering fields. As the need arises, support should be
taken from the national consultants, the university and HOORC, and DHI. Staff of
the Modelling Unit should be encouraged to present their work firstly in the arena
of the ODMP, then to national engineering organisations, and finally to regional
and international organisations, in cooperation with university researchers and
national consultants.
4 ACTIVITIES
4.1 Introduction
The activities leading to the achievement of the component outputs are described in
detail in the following sections, with comments on the progress to date. The
Activity Schedule is presented in figure 4.1. The activities are also set out with
respect to the ODMP Logical Framework Assessment, reproduced in Annex A with
references to the report text and remarks on adjustments to the indicated activities.
The Activity Schedule covers the period up to 1st May 2005, when the Team
Leader’s long term input is fulfilled. In this period, the activities on the component
should be substantially completed. Thereafter, the staff of the DWA Modelling
Unit will be applying the Hydrologic Model to the further analysis of scenarios for
the management plan largely independently, supported by short term inputs from
the national and international modelling specialists.
The Consultants have made four field trips to the delta, accompanied by DWA
staff. The first was a reconnaissance visit including Mohembo in May, the second a
boat trip through the upper delta, travelling through the three main channels
downstream till blockage prevented further access. The Team Leader made a visit
to Popa Falls and Mukwe/Divundu Gauging Stations in Namibia to inspect the site
of the proposed hydropower plant, and the possible upstream boundary for the
Hydrologic Model.
The third field trip comprised a visit to Moremi Wildlife Reserve, travelling up the
Maunachira till the Peter Smith Channel blockage (seen from upstream in the last
trip), downstream on the Khwai and across to Mboma Island. The trip concluded
with a three hour low altitude overflight of virtually the entire delta to gain an
overall impression of the complex hydraulic system and vegetation. A short fourth
trip to Xaxaba included Moumo DCP, but was curtailed owing to vehicle
breakdown and fuel supply problems.
DWA regional staff from the Gumare and Maun offices provided invaluable
assistance in the form of extensive knowledge of the delta and logistic support.
2 Monitoring Programme
2.1 Climatic Data OS FS 5 king Paper
milestone with no of Work
2 9
3.4 Assess Training Needs JAM DWA
3
3.5 Presentation on Modelling Concept JAM TVJ, PBH,
HGE
3.6 Staff Training in DWA
3.6.1 Hydrology Modelling TVJ FS
3.6.2 Surface Water Modelling JAM FS
3.6.3 Ground Water Modelling PBH IM
14
3.7 Overseas Training JAM
4 Remote Sensing
4.1 Collect Available Information MKS
7 Model Applications
11
7.1 Prepare Scenarios JAM FS, IM
8 Reporting
8.1 Inception JAM BS
May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr
2003 2004 2005
These data of different types and from different sources will comprise the input to
the integrated mathematical model of the delta. As such, they must be accurate and
consistent among themselves: the rainfall with the surface water level, the surface
water level with the ground water level, the surface water level with the cross
section, the discharge with the sediment transport, etc.
Prior to input to the mathematical model, these data are evaluated using a
systematic series of checks and cross checks. The model itself integrates the data,
and invalid results will highlight inconsistencies among the input data sets. Not all
errors will be indicated by the model and, to ensure redundancy in the data analysis,
a thorough evaluation is conducted prior to use in the model.
The mathematical model will be set up initially to represent current conditions in
the delta, with respect to channel alignment and flood plain topography. As the
delta experiences long term morphological changes, the time series database
focuses on the last five hydrologic years. Data sets covering earlier periods of
specific interest are also identified, compiled and evaluated.
Hydrologic Data
The existing DWA hydrologic network in the delta is extensive, though the quality
of the data collected is low. The distribution of the water level gauging stations is
shown in figure 4.3. The primary problem is access: tracks run through deep sand
in the dry period, and soft mud in the rainy season; channels become blocked by
vegetation; wild animals pose a danger to gauging staff and damage gauging
installations. Among the recommendations arising from the report are:
• The water level gauge board elevations must be related to each other,
and preferably to the national datum. This is presently being
undertaken by the Department of Surveys and Mapping (DSM) using
high accuracy GPS.
• Data measurement and storage should be followed by routine
processing including quality controls – interpolation in the database
is meaningless and unnecessary
• A special study should be conducted to quantify the flow bypassing
the key gauging station at Mohembo; if river cross section data are
available upstream, the upstream boundary should be taken at
Divundu where the total Okavango flow can be gauged
• A review of DWA regional hydrology staffing should be conducted
for adequacy of staff numbers, training needs and supervision by
senior officers
• The DWA automatic data collection platforms (DCPs) should be
rehabilitated, their operation and maintenance brought into the
routine procedures, and formal arrangements made for reception of
the data in DWA
DWA has shown a strong commitment to ODMP and monitoring the Okavango
Delta in giving priority to a high accuracy GPS survey of the bench marks attached
to the gauge boards and DCPs. The work was carried out by DSM in November
and December 2003, with logistic support provided by DWA. This was a major
undertaking involving more than 30 staff in seven teams, with an intensive work
programme . It demonstrates the solid cooperation between DWA and DSM.
The survey will establish the water levels in absolute terms, relative to mean sea
level, and enable relationships to be made among the stations’ water level records,
which could previously only show the range, including with the gauging stations on
the river upstream in Namibia.
Hydrogeologic Data
Ground water monitoring in and around the delta is limited, conducted only by
major development projects around Maun. The distribution of boreholes in the
delta is shown in figure 4.4. There are major gaps in this programme. The
boreholes are not accurately located in plan, and not related to a common level
datum. The principal holders of data, DWA and the Department of Geological
Surveys (DGS), use different ground water databases with different data stored in
different formats.
The following are the primary recommendations to bring the data collection to the
standard required by the management plan:
Sediment Transport
It appears that there is no sediment transport data available with organisations in
Botswana on the Okavango Delta. International sources will be researched,
primary among which will be the extensive research work conducted by the
Okavango Research Group of Witwatersrand University. Data are being collected
by NamPower Namibia in connection with feasibility studies of the proposed
hydropower plant at Popa Falls, also involving the university group.
Among the data anticipated to be available are:
(1) cross sections of the rivers and flood plains or swamp areas
(2) data on suspended sediment rates, concentrations and particle size
(3) particle sizes of bed and flood plain material
The data will in general have been collected on campaigns for specific research
purposes using sophisticated techniques under specialist guidance. Although they
will not comprise a long term systematic data set, considerable use can nonetheless
be made of these data.
Climatic Data
There are a number of climatic stations in and around the delta, operated by five
different organisations: DMS, DWA, ARB, HOORC and tourist lodges. These
should be brought under common management, and the data shared.
Recommendations to expand the network have been made independently by the
Consultants and HOORC. These may be integrated into a common proposal. In
order to complement the analysis of spatial distribution of the rainfall, remote
sensing sources are being investigated.
Within the delta, DWA has eight data collection platforms (DCPs) automatically
sensing rainfall and water level, and transmitting the data by satellite to the
Department of Meteorological Services (DMS) in Gaborone. Two of the stations
also measure climatic parameters. The DCPs have not been maintained and,
compounded by the year 2000 data storage problem, have fallen into disrepair.
None of the stations is presently operational.
The DCPs represent a major investment in monitoring the delta, and should be
rehabilitated as a top priority. DWA has the capability to operate and maintain the
stations in the long term, though this is presently vested in one staff member only,
and needs to be more widely disseminated. The data received at DMS should be
transmitted directly to DWA. The data reception should be regularly monitored
such that problems are detected early, and procedures to rectify are promptly
initiated.
Hydrometric Data
There is a dense network of some 70 water level gauges in the delta. Most are
simple gauge boards fixed to an angle iron driven into the river bed, normally read
monthly. A small number has automatic float type gauges with continuous chart
recorders running for one month or more. The stations are frequently disturbed by
wild animals. Discharge is measured monthly with a current meter from a boat at
around 30 of the stations.
The number and distribution of the stations are adequate for the management plan.
The following recommendations are made:
• Install a new system of around ten automatic water level recorders,
recording hourly with a data storage capacity up to one year and
battery power for five years. Data are retrieved by simply removing
and replacing the data logger.
• The discharge equipment presently employed is well suited to the
task. The availability of instruments and procedures for calibration
and maintenance should be checked, and spare parts carried to the
field by the gauging staff as a routine.
• The gauging staff from the Gumare and Maun offices should be
provided with a computer with appropriate software, and instructed
to calculate the discharge and plot the discharge and water levels
immediately they return to the office. The staff will have a greater
involvement and sense of responsibility for the process, errors and
other problems can be spotted early, and remedial action taken.
• Sediment transport should be monitored at the key inflow station at
Mohembo. This should be done by taking water samples analysed
for suspended sediment concentration in conjunction with the
discharge measurements. The concentration is known to be low, but
is nonetheless important.
• The major part of sediment transport is bed load. Samples of the bed
material should be analysed for their particle size distribution.
Measurement of bed load transport is difficult: appropriate methods
for systematic measurement at Mohembo should be investigated.
Water Quality
No systematic water quality monitoring of the surface waters of the delta has been
carried out to date. Some data, limited in time and space, have been obtained for
specific projects and research studies. A proposed study by DWA (Okavango and
Chobe Pollution Study, for which an inception report has been prepared but no
copies are available) plans a comprehensive survey in the vicinity of lodges and
camps. This study does not consider the natural background water quality, and is
unlikely to yield meaningful results. It should be redesigned.
The quality of the water entering the delta is a determining factor for the quality of
both the surface and ground waters of the delta. A long term systematic
programme should be initiated for the basic chemical parameters, in conjunction
with the discharge measuring programme at Mohembo. Biological monitoring is
not recommended at present. Pollution pressures are virtually absent and there is a
need to focus on essential measurements which yield meaningful results.
The water quality laboratory in DWA needs to be upgraded to carry out the full
range of analyses. The facilities at HOORC may be employed in the meantime.
Ground Water
It is essential to have knowledge of the ground water levels throughout the delta to
analyse the infiltration and movement. There are at present over 1,000 boreholes
in and around the delta. The large majority is in the southern area around Maun
and along the western margin. Present monitoring is conducted through the impact
of abstraction. There are virtually no boreholes within the delta. It order to
optimise the information gathered and the cost of the programme, an imaginative
and varied approach is proposed, corresponding to the varied hydrogeology of the
delta.
Along the Thamalakane valley at the downstream boundary of the delta, the present
monitoring is adequate, though it has suffered wilful damage and reinstatement
with greater security is required. Consideration should also be given to a more
widespread distribution of the monitoring sites, and continuity of existing long data
series.
Monitoring in the downstream delta has to distinguish three ground water aquifers:
a shallow upper unconfined aquifer, a lower semi-confined aquifer and a deeper
brackish underlying aquifer. This can be achieved with a nested system of three
pipes each sampling a different level.
Along the western margin, a regular monitoring programme is proposed, with a
small number of new boreholes with automatic recorders to cover gaps. There are
very few boreholes on the northern margin. To completely encircle the delta,
around eight new boreholes should be drilled for monitoring.
Within the delta, along the boundary between the permanent and seasonal flooding,
it is proposed that small individual catchments corresponding to different terrain
types are identified, and monitored for the total water balance. The catchments
would have a raingauge, weirs upstream and downstream to measure surface water
flow, and piezometers around the perimeter. HOORC has set up one such
catchment adjacent to Chief’s Island.
In the upper reaches of the wide valleys in the south west of the delta (eg the
Xudum) the ground water level has been dropping in recent years owing to limited
seasonal flooding. It is proposed that one longitudinal profile is monitored with
piezometers or small boreholes drilled using a lightweight rig. In the lower reaches
(eg the Kunyere), ground water levels have dropped alarmingly. It is proposed that
two sections across the valley each with three boreholes are monitored.
Implementation
The recommendations made in the working paper constitute an outline of the
required monitoring programme. The activities leading to full implementation are
as follows:
(1) Acceptance in principle of the recommendations by DWA and NCSA.
(2) Distribution of the recommendations to DWA divisions for comments,
and assistance in implementation.
(3) Mobilisation of national and international consultants to provide further
details and technical specifications, including outline designs for site
installations sufficient for the preparation of tender documents.
(4) The climatic and hydrometric programmes are relatively well defined in
the Working Paper. Ground water monitoring requires further
investigations of existing data and field reconnaissance.
(5) Assessment of the required DWA staff resources and training, and data
management.
(6) Preparation of a programme for long term operation and maintenance of
the gauging stations, and an estimate of the annual cost of the
programme.
Since further investigations are required particularly for the ground water
programme, as well as detailed design of the installations, the cost of
implementation can only be estimated at this stage. The estimate for climatic and
hydrometric equipment is USD100,000, and for ground water including drilling a
similar amount of USD100,000. Detailed specifications and designs are beyond the
scope of the Consultants’ activities, and these costs will be additional.
Training
Discussions will be held to assess the training needs of the DWA staff assigned to
the Modelling Unit. These will comprise both formal and on-the-job training. The
formal training is planned to entail courses of three days duration in four topics:
Training
The Topographic Model will be the basis of the hydrologic model. While training
in topographic modelling is not part of the Consultants’ contract, it is a recognised
need. The Consultants will provide the staff of the DWA Modelling Unit training
in the development and application of the Topographic Model, in order that they
understand how it has been developed, and how it should be applied.
Further training can be given, in the form of on-the-job training and an extended
formal course, to the extent that the DWA staff are able to apply the techniques to
other areas. The Consultants have proposed options which are currently being
considered by DWA. In evaluating the options for extended training, the following
should be considered:
• The modest goal to inform the DWA staff of the process to develop
the model, and to apply the model to the analysis of scenarios for
ODMP, can be achieved within the scope of the present project.
Alternative Approach
An alternative approach to the development of the Topographic Model was put
forward by the Project Management Group, utilising an existing model developed
by Dr Thomas Gumbricht. After lengthy discussion, this was finally rejected by
NCSA and DWA on contractual, technical and practical grounds:
• The Consultants’ contracted approach is well integrated with their
overall methodology, specifically for the Integrated Hydrologic
Model. The alternative approach could disrupt this.
• The alternative model is based on an earlier coarse model, but is not
documented
• Important information and methods which will be used by the
Consultants, particularly radar based, have not been utilised in the
alternative model
• Dr Gumbricht was not available for a short term consultancy which
might support the development of the Consultants’ Topographic
Model
4.8 Reporting
The primary reports to be prepared by the project are:
(1) A draft Inception Report, submitted on 7th November 2003.
(2) Final Inception Report for each of the two components, incorporating the
comments of the Project Steering Committee to the draft, submitted by
19th December 2003.
(3) It is proposed to submit an Interim Report by 30th April 2005, marking
the completion of the Team Leader’s long term input to the Project, and
substantial completion of the Project activities.
(4) A draft Completion Report, to be submitted by 31st May 2006.
(5) Final Completion Report, to be submitted by 31st July 2006.
According to the Consultants’ contract, Progress Reports are to be submitted
every six months, the first of which would coincide with the Inception
Report. In a meeting with NCSA, DWA and the PMG on 27th August 2003,
it was decided that this was too infrequent, and that Progress Reports should
be submitted every two months.
The first Progress Report was submitted covering the period from May to
September 2003. Avoiding coincidence with the draft and final Inception
Reports, the next Progress Report will be submitted two months after the
Inception Report, by 29th February 2004 and every two months thereafter.
Milestones in the Activity Schedules are marked by the working papers
presenting the main activities, and recommendations and conclusions arising.
The paper on Capacity Building in DWA was distributed in June 2003. Three
working papers have been distributed as drafts in November and December:
• Hydrologic Data
• Hydrogeologic Data
• Recommendations for Improved Monitoring
The complete planned list of Working Papers for the Hydrology and Water
Resources component is given in Annex B.
A Procedures Manual and Quality Assurance Plan for the Project have been
distributed as drafts for comment in December 2003.
5 INPUTS
Modelling Specialists
The Consultants have proposed changes to the staffing of the Water Resources
modelling specialists. The complex dynamic interactions between the atmospheric,
surface and ground waters in the delta area require a high level of specialist
expertise in integrated hydrologic modelling. The substitution of Steen Asger
Nielsen with Torsten Jacobsen with a significant input reflects this need.
Inception Report page 5-1
Okavango Delta Management Plan Hydrology and Water Resources
International Consultants
Team Leader JAM 18.0
National Consultants
Hydrologist FS 9.0
May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr
2003 2004 2005
5.2 Equipment
5.2.1 Project Vehicles
According to contract, a project vehicle has been provided by the Consultants from
Danida funds. This a is four wheel drive field vehicle, an Isuzu Trooper 3.1,
purchased by the Consultants in Denmark and shipped to Botswana, arriving on
14th July. Under the government to government agreement, the vehicle was cleared
through customs free of duties and taxes, and registered and insured on 18th July
2003.
The vehicle is operated by the Team Leader, and is used for official business in and
around Gaborone, and field trips to the delta. The Consultant is presently financing
the running costs; reimbursement by DWA is being processed through their
accounts department and NCSA. A log book of the vehicle’s use is maintained by
the Team Leader.
The Central Transport Organisation of the Botswana Government is obtaining a
second project vehicle primarily for DWA use. It is proposed that this vehicle is
also operated by the Team Leader, with the running costs reimbursed by DWA.
This may cause problems for the Consultants’ cash flow (see section 5.3, Project
Finances).
Model Room
Surface Ground
Hydrology
Water Water
Data
Backup
Processing
Short Term
Team
HUB International
Leader
Experts
The Consultants had obtained six quotations from potential suppliers and, in
cooperation with DWA, selected the best in terms of equipment and price. The
recently ascertained procurement procedure requires supply through Botswana
owned companies, and retendering is in process. It is proving difficult to obtain the
five quotation required. The present DWA budget of BWP132,000 is sufficient to
purchase four computers. Some additional funds may be required to purchase the
fifth computer and a projector.
The computers will be set up on the DWA and Government of Botswana network,
with Internet and e-mail access. Two important generally available Internet
facilities are not available on the government network:
• File transfer protocol (FTP) is essential for exchanging large
amounts of information such as will be required for the management
plan over the Internet
• Virtual private network (VPN) is required to log into external
networks such as at DHI in Denmark – this facility will greatly
improve the efficiency of the modelling specialists
DWA is requested to provide these facilities in the Modelling Unit.
5.2.5 Monitoring
Comprehensive recommendations have been prepared for improvements to the
gauging stations operated and maintained by DWA in the delta, to provide a solid
database comprising long term systematic data that capture the range of hydrologic
events, and sequences of events. The monitoring equipment cover the key systems
in the delta: climatic, surface and ground water, and sediment transport. DWA has
a budget of BWP1,390,000 to implement the programme.
While the detailed specification, design and installation of the equipment proposed
requires specialist assistance, they can be operated and maintained by DWA
technical field staff, subject to a review of staff numbers and training needs.
2
At October 2003 exchange rates, BWP1.00 is equivalent to DKK1.375 and USD0.215.
According to the budget, while Danida funds have been utilised to purchase the
project vehicle, DWA will pay running costs. DWA has recently established the
procedure for the disbursement of funds allocated for ODMP (see section 5.3.3).
For the efficiency of the project logistics, the running of the project vehicle has
been financed by the Consultants from Danida funds. At the end of September
2003, these totalled BWP21,422.91, including the major item of the insurance
premium. It is anticipated that the Consultants will shortly be reimbursed by DWA.
It is further proposed that the Consultants initially meet the running costs of the
DWA project vehicle.
6.1 Introduction
The following sections summarise the key issues raised in the Inception Report
with reference to the ODMP Logical Framework Assessment for the Hydrology
and Water Resources component, with recommendations for actions to address the
issues.
Staffing
The Consultants have prepared a report Capacity Building in DWA, setting out the
staffing and computing requirements. In the course of the inception phase, DWA
Hydrology staff have been working alongside the Consultant on an occasional
basis. In December, four staff have been formally assigned to the Unit, and
correspondingly relieved of other duties. Existing staff resources were not
sufficient. DGS has transferred a Hydrogeologist to the DWA Ground Water
Division, and DWA has recruited university graduates two of whom have been
assigned to the Unit.
The staff should be given specific responsibilities within the unit. The staffing
level and progress in assimilating the modelling technology will be kept under
review.
Computers
DWA has received funds from the government for ODMP, including a budget for
computer hardware and software. Procedures have only recently been established
enabling DWA to disburse these funds.
The Consultants obtained quotations for the hardware and software, comprising
five personal computers and peripheral devices, and four modelling packages, one
of which would be passed to HOORC to provide support to DWA in the long term.
Danida funds permit the purchase of one modelling package, and DHI has agreed to
supply the second and third copies within the DWA software budget.
It has recently been determined that hardware tendering is limited to Botswana
suppliers. It is proving difficult to obtain the five quotations required. As this is
now delaying the work of the Modelling Unit, DWA should urgently complete the
procurement procedures to purchase the computers. It is further recommended that
an additional budget of BWP112,500 is allocated to acquire a university license for
the fourth modelling software package for HOORC.
Communications
Good communications are essential for the DWA Modelling Unit to function
efficiently, both within ODMP and internationally. In order to ensure this, DWA is
requested to provide the following additional lines:
• A mobile telephone for the team leader, according to normal
government rules
• For the efficient transfer of data and information, FTP and VPN
Internet access over the DWA LAN
6.4 Equipment
The Consultants have acquired a project vehicle from Danida funds. DWA has a
budget from the government to meet the running costs. The Consultants have met
the running costs to date, awaiting reimbursement from DWA which is now in
process. DWA is obtaining a second project vehicle from government funds. It is
also proposed that the Consultants operate the vehicle with running costs provided
by DWA.
In order not to jeopardise the Consultants’ cash flow, DWA is requested to provide
an advance to the Consultant to meet the running costs of both vehicles.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Project Reports
Scientific Papers
(1) Wolski P, Gumbricht T, McCarthy TS: Assessing Future Change in the Okavango
Delta: Use of a Regression Model of the Maximum Annual Flood in a Monte Carlo
Simulation, submitted for publication
(2) Ramberg L, Wolski P, Krah M: Water Balance on a Seasonal Floodplain in the
Okavango Delta, submitted for publication
(3) McCue KM, Burger P, von Christierson B: Development of an Integrated Surface
Water and Ground Water Interaction Model for Volusia County’s Tiger Bay/Bennett
Swamp, Proceedings of DHI Software Conference, Orlando, 2002
(4) Bauer P, Brunner P, Kinzelbach W: Quantifying the Net Exchange of Water
Between Land and Atmosphere in the Okavango Delta, Institute of Hydromechanics
and Water Resources Management, Zurich
(5) Bauer P et al: Is Density Flow Balancing the Salt Budget of the Okavango Delta?
Evidence from Field and Modelling Studies, Institute of Hydromechanics and Water
Resources Management, Zurich
(6) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS, Dangerfield JM: Floristic Diversity in Okavango Delta as
an Endogenous Product of Biological Activity, Biodiversity in Wetlands, vol 1, 2000
(7) Jason Y, Hopkins E, Sørensen HR, Kjelds JT: Integrated Hydrologic Wetland
Modelling in South Florida, ASCE Water Resources and Hydrology Conference,
Seattle, August 1999
(8) Report of the Expert Group Meeting on Strategic Approaches to Freshwater
Management, UNDESA, Harare, January 1998
(9) Seen LO et al: An Approach to Couple Vegetation Functioning and Soil-Vegetation-
Atmosphere Transfer Models for Semi-Arid Grasslands, Agriculture and Forest
Meteorology, 1997
(10) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Environmental Change over Two Decades since Dredging
and Excavation of Lower Boro River, Okavango Delta, Journal of Biogeography, vol
25, 1998
(11) McCarthy TS and Ellery WN: Failure of Nqoga Channel between Hamoga and
Letenetso Islands, North Eastern Okavango Delta, Botswana Notes and Records, vol
27
(12) Merry CL et al: GPS Heightening in Okavango Delta, Journal of Surveying
Engineering, Nov 1998
(13) McCarthy et al: Gradient of Okavango Fan, and its Sedimentological and Tectonic
Implications, Journal of African Earth Sciences, vol 24, 1997
(14) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Bloem A: The Gradient on the Okavango Fan and its
Sedimentological and Tectonic Implications, Journal of African Affairs Earth
Science, 1997.
(15) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Bloem A: Observations on the Geomorphological Impact
of Hippopotamus in the Okavango Delta, African Journal of Ecology, 1997
(16) Smith ND, McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Merry CL, Ruther H: Avulsion and
Anastomosis in the Panhandle Region of the Okavango Fan, Geomorphology, 1997
(17) McCarthy TS, Bloem A, Larkin PA: Observations on the Hydrology and
Geohydrology of the Okavango Delta, South African Journal of Geology, 1997
(18) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Fluvial Dynamics of Maunachira Channel System, North
Eastern Okavango Swamps, Water SA, vol 23, Apr 1997
(19) Haruyama S, Ohokura H, Simking T, Ramphin: Geomorphological Zoning for Flood
Inundation using Satellite Data, GeoJournal, Vol 38.3, March 1996
(20) Ellery WN, Ellery K, Rogers KH, McCarthy TS: Role of Cyperus Papyrus L in
Channel Blockage and Abandonment in North Eastern Okavango Delta, African
Journal of Ecology, vol 33, 1995
(21) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Principles for Sustainable Utilisation of Okavango Delta
Ecosystem, Biological Conservation, 1994
(22) Stanistreet IG, McCarthy TS: The Okavango Fan and the Classification of Subaerial
Fan Systems, Sedimentary Geology, 1993
(23) Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: Low Sinuosity and Meandering Bedload Rivers of the
Okavango Fan, Sedimentary Geology, 1993
(24) McCarthy TS, Green RW, Franey NJ: The Influence of Neo-Tectonics on Water
Dispersal in the North Eastern Regions of the Okavango Swamp, Journal of African
Earth Sciences, 1993
(25) Ellery WN et al: Vegetation, Hydrology and Sedimentation Processes as
Determinants of Channel Form and Dynamics in the North Eastern Okavango Delta,
African Journal of Ecology, Vol 93, 1993
(26) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Stanistreet IG: Avulsion Mechanisms on the Okavango
Fan, Sedimentology, 1992
(27) McCarthy TS: Physical and Biological Processes Controlling the Okavango Delta,
Botswana Notes and Records, Vol 24, 1992
(28) McCarthy TS, Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: The Sedimentary Dynamics of Active
Channels on the Okavango Fan, Sedimentology, 1991
(29) McCarthy TS, Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: The Sedimentary Dynamics of Active
Fluvial Channels on the Okavango Fan, Sedimentology, 1991
(30) Ellery WN et al: Formation, Colonisation and Fate of Floating Sudds in the
Maunachira River System of the Okavango Delta, Aquatic Botany, Vol 38, 1990
(31) McCarthy TS, Metcalfe J: Chemical Sedimentation in the Semi-Arid environment of
the Okavango Delta, Chemical Geology, 1990
(32) McCarthy TS et al: Incremental Aggradation on the Okavango Delta Fan,
Geomorphology, 1988
MAIN
NO TITLE CONTENTS CONTRIBUTORS DATE
AUTHOR
9 Assessment of Review of the formal and on-the-job training of the Alasdair - July 2004
DWA Training DWA staff assigned to the Modelling Unit, and an Macdonald
Needs II assessment of the oversees training needs
10 Integrated Report on the set up and calibration of the Integrated Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen August
Hydrologic Model Hydrologic Model of the Okavango Delta Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2004
of the Okavango
Delta Hans Gustav Enggrob
11 Preliminary Model Determination of the scenarios whose impact will be Alasdair Francis Sefe September
Scenarios for analysed with the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the Macdonald 2004
ODMP Okavango Delta
12 Preliminary Results Preliminary report on the results of the scenarios Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen December
of Model Scenarios whose impact has been analysed applying the Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2004
for ODMP Integrated Hydrologic Model of the Okavango Delta
Hans Gustav Enggrob
13 Results of Model Report on the results of the scenarios whose impact Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen February
Scenarios for has been analysed applying the Integrated Hydrologic Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2005
ODMP Model of the Okavango Delta
Hans Gustav Enggrob
14 Status of DWA Review of the establishment of the Modelling Unit in Modelling Modelling Unit Staff March
Modelling Unit DWA and the capacity building programme. Unit Alasdair Macdonald 2005
Manager