An assessment of recreational carrying capacity at Infanta, South Cape
Master Thesis
1984
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
A proposal to develop 100 additional residential erven at Infanta, a holiday township on the South Cape coast, prompted this study. Current pressure of human activities imposed on the Infanta coastal and estuarine environment during peak holiday periods is determined from questionnaire analysis and direct observations. Projections of potential recreational demand anticipated at the proposed higher level of development are made. An assessment of recreational carrying capacity indicates in broad terms what levels of use are acceptable for the different recreational activities pursued in the area. At the present population pressure these levels are already attained or exceeded for most activities. Major physical, ecological and social constraints for further township development are identified. The beach and swimming area, as well as ancillary shore facilities for boats, are already inadequate to support current recreational pressure. Increased recreational pressure will result in competition for water space and conflicts between different recreational interest groups will occur. Surveys conducted during this study suggest that particular bait and shellfish organisms (e.g. Alikreukel) are already overexploited. There is also evidence of a decline in the numbers and size of fish caught. At one recreation site, bank erosion and destruction of salt marsh vegetation is indicative of heavy boating and watersports activities. An increased holiday population would result in overcrowding at recreation sites. This would reduce the quality of the recreation experience for both the present holidaymakers and newcomers to the area. It is concluded that both the environmental resources and existing man-made amenities in the area are already stressed by present recreational pressure and cannot support an increased holiday population during peak holiday periods. Increased development will destroy the attributes which attracted development in the first instance. Additional township development which will increase population numbers during peak holiday periods should not be permitted. It is recommended that an evaluation of present recreational pressure, projections of potential recreational demand and an assessment of recreational carrying capacity based on physical, ecological and social constraints should be a routine procedure in the consideration of applications for the extension or establishment of coastal townships.
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Bibliography: pages 145-148.
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Sowman, M. 1984. An assessment of recreational carrying capacity at Infanta, South Cape. University of Cape Town.