The Klein Karoo is situated in the Western Cape, South Africa, and is characterised by low rainfall (100-450 mm yr-1). The Klein Karoo is situated in the primary catchment of the Gouritz River. The demand for water in these catchments is 182 Mm3 yr-1, which exceeds the yield, and demand is projected to increase 23% to 150% by 2025. Changes in the approach to water management are required, including improving the efficiency of irrigation and land restoration to improve water infiltration and reduce soil erosion. According to this article, it is time to change to a water management approach that is designed to anticipate and manage the inherent variability in water resources in the Klein Karoo, thereby placing the region on a path to sustainable development.