South Africa’s farmers face a triple threat: erratic rainfall, escalating municipal tariffs, and groundwater regulations tightening under the National Water Act. A borehole isn’t just backup—it’s a strategic asset that can cut irrigation dependency by up to 80% when managed sustainably. WellEx Drilling has helped hundreds of farms transition to resilient, cost-effective water systems. Here’s how to make it work for you.
Step 1: Match Yield to Crop Demand
Why it matters: Over-pumping depletes aquifers; under-pumping starves crops.
How to do it:
- Map your peak daily demand (e.g., 15,000 L/ha for maize in summer).
- Use WellEx yield testing to confirm your borehole delivers 20% above peak.
- Install flow meters to track usage in real time.
Step 2: Integrate Rainwater Harvesting
Why it matters: Free water during wet months reduces borehole runtime.
How to do it:
- Add jojo tanks or earth dams to capture roof/runoff water.
- Blend rainwater with borehole supply via a dual-inlet system.
- Result: Extend pump life and preserve groundwater reserves.
Step 3: Switch to Precision Irrigation
Why it matters: Flood irrigation wastes 40–60% of water to evaporation and runoff.
How to do it:
- Deploy drip or micro-sprinklers (delivers water to root zones only).
- Pair with soil moisture sensors—automate shut-off when fields are saturated.
- WellEx designs solar-powered controllers that run during off-peak sunlight.
Step 4: Protect Your Aquifer Long-Term
Why it matters: Sustainable extraction ensures your borehole lasts generations.
How to do it:
- Rest the aquifer one month per year (use municipal/rainwater backup).
- Monitor static water levels quarterly—drops signal over-use.
- WellEx provides annual aquifer health reports with every service plan.
Quick Win: Solar-Hybrid Pumping
- Daytime: Solar panels power the pump (zero diesel).
- Night/Peak: Seamless switch to generator or grid.
- Outcome: Lower runtime, quieter operation, and full compliance with load-shedding schedules.
Real Story: The Van der Merwe Vineyard, Stellenbosch
“We were irrigating 22 hectares with river quotas that shrank every season. WellEx installed a 12,000 L/hour borehole with drip lines and solar controls. Yields rose 18%, and we now irrigate through December without touching the river.” — Pieter Van der Merwe, 2025
Your Farm’s Water Future Starts Now
Sustainable doesn’t mean complex. One site assessment with WellEx Drilling maps your geology, designs the system, and handles permits—leaving you with water security that grows with your crops.
Take control of your irrigation. Book a free farm water audit and discover how much you can save.
WellEx Drilling – Sustainable Solutions for South African Agriculture.