Abstract:
Water Harvesting (WH) is best described as the “collection of runoff for its productive use”
(Critchley & Siegert. 1991) and can be categorized into two groups: (1) rainwater harvesting:
the practice of harvesting runoff from natural surfaces as well as artificial surfaces such as
roofs; and (2) floodwater harvesting: the practice of harvesting the discharge from ephemeral
watercourses (Critchley, & Siegert. 1991).
There is a vast range of WH techniques available and applicable to various geographical
conditions. Productive uses include the provision of domestic and livestock water, the
collection of runoff for crops, fodder and tree production, and less commonly water supply
for fish and duck ponds (Critchley, & Siegert. 1991). Many WH techniques originate from local
agricultural practices, whereas some are introduced from other geographical areas (regions or
countries). WH practices are commonly coupled with agronomic and forestry practices such
as planting trees, managing soil fertility and enhancing soil water infiltration and retention
capacity.