SPRINGBOK FLATS

Afrikaans Springbokvla extensive plain in South Africa, extending northeast from Pretoria in Gauteng province for about 100 miles (160 km) to the town of Zebediela in Northern province. The name indicates an abundance of springboks, but now little game remains except in preserves. The whole plain, with an average elevation of about 3,300 feet (1,000 m), is extremely flat and featureless. The climate is hot, with an annual rainfall of about 24 inches (600 mm) and little surface runoff. Vegetation is thornveld and grassland, and the black turf, soil derived from basalt, is fertile. The plain is mainly cattle-raising country; corn (maize), peanuts (groundnuts), and large quantities of oranges are harvested (with irrigation) near Zebediela. The plain is well served by railways and roads.