Water tank protection Different physical barriers can help protect water points from elephant damage.
Method 1 : water towers This can be a metal, concrete or wooden structure, at least 3 metres high.
During the dry season or times of drought, elephants and humans may come into conflict over resources - like water
Method 2 : White rock barriers This is a barrier of sharp rocks, painted white. This can be used to help fortify fences or farm enclosures.
Make sure the foundations are strong and the structure is sturdy enough to be able to hold the weight of a full water tank. Depending on the size of the water installation, the higher the tank, the better protected it may be from elephants. These are unpleasant and painful for elephants to walk on.
Make sure there is a ladder and safe human access.
Use sharp white rock barriers to add extra protection for water pipes
Using a combination of deterrents helps increase the water point protection
Method 3 : Stone walls Wall should be smooth to prevent elephants from climbing over.
This method is being used in Namibia to help with conflict over water sources with desert elephants.
Namibia
www.ehranamibia.org
1.
https://encosh.org/en/initiatives/water-point-protection/