2013_14 IDP Review.pdf - KZN Development Planning

High Potential Agricultural LandThe SDF designates high potential agricultural areas as an important structuring element in the long-term growth of the municipality. This isbased on the need for intensive agricultural production areas in close proximity to settlements on account of cost advantages due to links tomarkets, direct and indirect employment opportunities for settlement dwellers, stimulation of secondary business activities (e.g. foodprocessing) and food security.Land with irrigation potential is regarded as highest potential agricultural land and should be managed and protected as such. These areasshould be reserved as prime agricultural land in the municipality and be protected from any development or land uses that may have anegative impact on the agricultural potential of the area. The most important is the areas under irrigation and those with irrigation potential.Nevertheless, the importance of agriculture in the local economy warrants special attention to all agricultural land.The rest of the area is covered by low intensity extensive agricultural land. In terms of the land capability the areas agricultural potentialvaries substantially and range from land suitable for intensive cultivation through to land that preclude its use for commercial plant productionand restrict its use to recreation, wildlife, water supply or aesthetic purposesAgriculture is and will remain the backbone of job creation in the municipal area and is an integral part of eco-tourism in the municipality.Draft 2013/2014 IDP Review Page 213Prepared by Umzinyathi District Municipality22 March 2013