ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: An overview is given of the latest developments in the national Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) of the Republic of South Africa with regard to risk-based prioritisation of DWAF dams for rehabilitation (i.e. remedial works). Information on economic and environmental issues (social and ecological) for a portfolio of dams is quantified in terms of impact and risk levels at existing dams before and after proposed remedial works (rehabilitation). The background and basis of the graphs that are used to present this information in a concise and simple manner are explained briefly. A multi criteria decision model is used to prioritise remedial works for the cost-effective reduction of impact and risk to acceptable levels. Conclusions are drawn from the practical experience of prioritising dams for improvements based on the results of the more than 100 risk analyses performed during the past 15 years.
