Right, and now I will show you the purpose of the rock casings.
This was where the guys were assembling the loose rocks after the machine dropped the rocks in the restricted area.
As I said in Part 1 yesterday, I had no idea what was going on, but I have to say, that I knew that some parts of the banks were laced together by wired up rocks to prevent further erosion taking place on the banks of the river. But I have had no idea how it was done, and so glad that now I know how it gets done. The loose rocks collected from the river get bound together in a strong wire casing, and then the machine is used to transfer the casings, and to lower the casings down into place at the eroded riverbank. This is not a quick fix, as the banks that were already packed with the casings will last for a very long time.
Come and see.
The machine hooked the wire casings and then turned to transfer it into the river.
See? The hands were ready and guided the casing lowered by the machine, into its exact position.
Then the straps were hooked on the front of the machine and the machine pulled the straps out on its way to go and fetch another casing.
Here below you can see a completed part, and the wired rock casing protects the riverbank from any further erosion.
But look at the right what was still waiting to be lined with the casings, as the banks were eaten away by the river to such an extent that it endangers the walkway next to the river. One of the guys told me that they will get to it soon.
The wife went to get us some coffee from a friend that has a food van in the park, and if any Saffers ever get to this park, then please go and support her, as not only the coffee, but the toasted sarmies are delicious. Oh, and she makes pancakes to die for.
Finally, we were on our way back home, and we really enjoyed the day.
It is said that one never gets too old to learn, and I second that, as now I know how the riverbanks are protected against erosion. Let me tell you that when one has an open mind, it drinks in as much knowledge as it can. The farmers and the tradesmen here are certainly very experienced, and it's amazing what they can get up to. My first thought was to line the riverbanks with concrete walls, but that would spoil nature, and the river rocks are the ideal, natural plan. When that river gets into flood it can rise up, right up to top level, but the rocks are secure, and they will prevent erosion. We love the park, and I take many photos there, especially of the raptors that fly overhead.
Such is life.
I hope you enjoyed the pictures and the story.
Photos by Zac Smith. All-Rights-Reserved.
Camera: Canon PowershotSX70HS Bridge camera.
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