Environmental Management Plan for Proposed Borrow Pits, Umzimvubu & Ntabankulu Local Municipalities, Eastern Cape

 

 

Submitted in terms of Section 39 and of Regulation 52 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of 2002)

 

Report Prepared by:

Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd

EAS Project Number: 1148


On behalf of:

 

 

 

Prepared for:


Eastern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works

DR&PW Contract Number: SCMU5-13/14-152

 

 

 

14 November 2014


 

 

 

Environmental Management Plan

 

Proposed Borrow Pits in Umzimvubu & Ntabankulu Local Municipalities (Alfred Nzo DM), Eastern Cape

 

 

 

For: Eastern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works

Private Bag X0022, Bhisho, 5605

 

 

By: Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd.

73 Heugh Road, Walmer, Port Elizabeth, 6013

Tel: +27 (0) 41 581 2421, Fax: +27 (0) 86 683 9899

 

 

On behalf of: On behalf of: AECOM

93 Nelson Mandela Drive, Mthatha, 5100, South Africa.

Tel: +27(0) 47 532 3977; Fax: +27(0)47 532 2372

 

 

EAS Project Number: 1150

DMR Contract Numbers:

 

 

 

Compiled by:

Name

Company

Email

Mr Jamie Pote

Engineering Advice & Services

(Biophysical and EMP)

jamiep@easpe.co.za

Mr Dieter Bester

Engineering Advice & Services

(Geotech and Engineering)

dieterb@easpe.co.za

Mr Ray Parker

Engineering Advice & Services

(Engineering and Review)

ray@easpe.co.za

 

 

 

14 November 2014

 

 

Table of Contents

List of Figures. iv

List of Tables. v

Abbreviations. vi

Glossary. vii

Release Notes. ix

1        Introduction & Overview.. 1-1

1.1        Legal and Administrative Requirements. 1-1

1.1.1        MPRDA Section 106 (1). 1-1

1.2        NEMA principles of particular relevance to biodiversity: 1-5

1.3        Responsibilities of Role Players. 1-5

1.3.1        Developer. 1-5

1.3.2        Consulting Engineer. 1-5

1.3.3        Contractor. 1-6

1.3.4        Environmental Control Officer. 1-6

1.3.5        Environmental Liaison Officer. 1-6

1.4        Approach. 1-6

1.5        Limitations. 1-7

1.6        Applicant and Consultant Details. 1-7

1.7        Report Structure. 1-8

2        Proposed Project Description. 2-1

2.1        Motivation. 2-1

2.2        Activity Description. 2-1

2.3        Activity Location. 2-1

2.4        Borrow Pit Locations. 2-2

2.5        Description of the Existing Environment. 2-2

2.5.1        Introduction. 2-2

2.5.2        Site Locality. 2-2

2.5.3        Topography. 2-3

2.5.4        Geology and soils. 2-3

2.5.5        Hydrology (Ground and surface water). 2-4

2.5.6        Climate. 2-5

2.5.7        Air quality. 2-5

2.5.8        Noise. 2-5

2.5.9        Paleontological resources. 2-5

2.5.10     Archaeological resources. 2-6

2.5.11     Land Use. 2-7

2.5.12     Erosion Potential 2-7

2.5.13     Vegetation of Southern Africa. 2-7

2.5.14     Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP). 2-8

2.5.15     Implications of Regional Planning frameworks. 2-8

2.5.16     Species of Special Concern occurring in the region. 2-9

2.5.17     Social and economic environment. 2-11

2.5.18     Health and Safety. 2-11

2.6        List of Maps. 2-11

3        Individual Borrow Pit Assessments. 3-1

3.1        DR08649/10.4. 3-2

3.1        Borrow Pit DR08649/20.0. 3-8

3.2        Borrow Pit DR08092/0.9. 3-14

4        Summary of the potential impacts, significance assessment and the proposed mitigation measures. 4-1

4.1        Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts. 4-1

4.1.1        Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts. 4-1

4.2        Identification of potential impacts. 4-2

4.2.1         Possible impacts on biodiversity during mining construction and operations. 4-2

4.2.2        List of actions, activities, or processes that have sufficiently significant impacts to require mitigation. 4-2

4.2.3        Appropriate technical or management options. 4-3

4.2.4        Review the significance of the identified impacts. 4-3

4.2.5        Listed activities (in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations). 4-4

4.2.6        Potential cumulative impacts. 4-4

4.2.7        Potential impact on heritage resources. 4-4

4.2.8         Potential impacts on communities, individuals or competing land uses in close proximity. 4-5

4.2.9        Confirmation that the list of potential impacts has been compiled with the participation of the landowner and interested and affected parties. 4-5

4.2.10     Confirmation of specialist report appended. 4-5

5        Closure and environmental objectives. 5-1

5.1        Rehabilitation plan. 5-1

5.2        Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment. 5-1

5.3        Confirmation of consultation. 5-2

6        Monitoring and Performance. 6-1

7        Public Participation. 7-1

7.1        Identification of interested and affected parties. 7-1

7.1.1        Details of the engagement process. 7-1

7.1.2        Description of the information provided to the community, landowners, and interested and affected parties  7-2

7.1.3        List of which parties identified in 7.1 above that were in fact consulted, and which were not consulted   7-2

7.1.4        List of views raised by consulted parties regarding the existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment. 7-2

7.1.5        List of views raised by consulted parties on how their existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment potentially will be impacted on by the proposed prospecting or mining operation. 7-3

7.1.6        Other concerns raised by the aforesaid parties. 7-3

7.1.7        Confirmation that minutes and records of the consultations are appended. 7-3

7.2        The manner in which the issues raised were addressed. 7-3

8        Environmental awareness plan. 8-1

8.1        Employee communication process. 8-1

8.2        Description of solutions to risks. 8-1

8.3        Environmental awareness training. 8-1

9        Financial provision. 9-1

9.1        Plans for quantum calculation purposes. 9-1

9.2        Alignment of rehabilitation with the closure objectives. 9-1

9.3        Quantum calculations. 9-1

9.4        Undertaking to provide financial provision. 9-1

10     SECTION 39 (4) (a) (iii) of the Act: Capacity to rehabilitate and manage negative impacts on the environment  10-1

10.1     The annual amount required to manage and rehabilitate the environment. 10-1

10.2     Confirmation that the stated amount correctly reflected in the Mining Work Programme as required. 10-1

11     REGULATION 52 (2) (h) Undertaking to execute the Environmental Management Plan. 11-1

12     Appendices. 12-1

12.1     Appendix A: Environmental Management Plan. 12-2

12.1.1     General Requirements. 12-2

12.1.2     Biodiversity Requirements. 12-5

12.1.3     Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites. 12-6

12.1.4     Visual Aspects. 12-7

12.1.5     Noise. 12-8

12.1.6     Dust. 12-8

12.1.7     Waste Management and Ablution Facilities. 12-8

12.1.8     Infrastructural Requirements. 12-9

12.1.9     Final Rehabilitation. 12-13

12.1.10        Monitoring and Reporting. 12-16

12.1.11        Training. 12-16

12.1.12        Environmental Incidents. 12-17

12.1.13        List of Fines. 12-17

12.1.14        Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment. 12-18

12.2     Appendix B: Detailed Impact Assessment. 12-20

12.3     Appendix C: Potential Species of Special Concern List for the area. 12-22

12.4     Appendix D: References. 12-28

12.5     Appendix E: Financial Provision and Undertaking Letters. 12-30

12.6     Appendix F: Borrow Pit Geological Test Results. 12-31

12.7     Appendix G: Interested and Affected Party Correspondence. 12-32

 

List of Figures

Figure 1: Map indicating locality of borrow pits with major roads, towns, etc. 2-11

Figure 2: Geology Map. 2-11

Figure 3: Rivers and Wetlands. 2-11

Figure 4: Positioning of the Borrow Pits relative to the VEGMAP vegetation types (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). 2-11

Figure 5: Critical Biodiversity Areas, as per Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP, 2007). 2-11

Figure 6: Land Use – excluding Natural Vegetation (SANBI Landcover, 2006). 2-11

 

List of Tables

Table 1: Details of Applicant. 1-7

Table 2: Details of Consultant. 1-7

Table 3: Locality of proposed borrow pits. 2-2

Table 4: Summary of Biodiversity features for the Borrow Pit sites. 2-2

Table 5: Species of Special Concern known to occur in the vicinity of the sites. 2-9

Table 6: List of potential Impacts relating to the expansion of Borrow Pits. 4-3

Table 7: Summary indicating significance of potential impacts relating to mining activities (SB = Significance BEFORE Mitigation; SA = Significance AFTER Mitigation). 4-6

Table 8: Listed Activities associated with Borrow Pits. 4-7

Table 9: List of Municipal Managers and Ward Councillors. 7-1

Table 10: List of Regional Interested and Affected Parties. 7-1

Table 11: Table indicating proposed mining area and quantum calculation. 9-1

 


Abbreviations

ASAPA

Association of South African Professional Archaeologists

BP

Borrow Pit

CARA

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983

CBA

Critical Biodiversity Area

CRM

Cultural Resource Management

DEA

Department of Environmental Affairs (National)

DEDEAT

Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism

DEMC

Desired Ecological Management Class

DMR

Department of Mineral Resources

DWA

Department of Water Affairs

DWAF

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (former department name)

EA

Environmental Authorisation

ECO

Environmental Control Officer

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment

EIR

Environmental Impact Report

EIS

Ecological Importance and Sensitivity Classification

EMC

Ecological Management Class

EMP

Environmental Management Plan

EMPr

Environmental Management Programme report

ER

Environmental Representative

ESS

Ecosystem Services

IAP’s

Interested and Affected Parties

IEM

Integrated Environmental Management

LHS

Left Hand Side

LM

Local Municipality

LoM

Life of Mine

masl

meters above sea level

MIA

Mining Infrastructure Area

MPRDA

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002

NBA

National Biodiversity Assessment

NEMA

National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998

NEMBA

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004

NFA

National Forest Act 84 of 1998

NOMR

New Order Mining Right

PEMC

Present Ecological Management Class

PES

Present Ecological State

RDL

Red Data List

RHS

Right Hand Side

RoD

Record of Decision

RoM

Run of Mine

SAHRA

South African Heritage Resources Agency

SANBI

South African Biodiversity Institute

SARTM

South African Rural Traffic Model

SDF

Spatial Development Framework

SoER

State of the Environment Report

SSC

Species of Special Concern

TOPS

Threatened of Protected Species

ToR

Terms of Reference

+ve

Positive

-ve

Negative

 

 

Glossary

Corridors: 

Have important functions as strips of a particular type of landscape differing from adjacent land on both sides. Habitat, ecosystems or undeveloped areas that physically connect habitat patches. Smaller, intervening patches of surviving habitat can also serve as "stepping stones" that link fragmented ecosystems by ensuring that certain ecological processes are maintained within and between groups of habitat fragments.

Degraded habitat/land

Land that has been impacted upon by man’s activities (including introduction of invasive alien plants, light to moderate overgrazing, accelerated soil erosion, dumping of waste), but still retains a degree of its original structure and species composition (although some species loss would have occurred) and where ecological processes still occur (albeit in an altered way).  Degraded land is capable of being restored to a near-natural state with appropriate ecological management.

ECO/ESO:

Environmental Site/Control Officer – person responsible for the Day-to-Day Environmental Management on-site during construction.

Ecological Processes:

Ecological processes typically only function well where natural vegetation remains, and in particular where the remaining vegetation is well-connected with other nearby patches of natural vegetation. Loss and fragmentation of natural habitat severely threatens the integrity of ecological processes. Where basic processes are intact, ecosystems are likely to recover more easily from disturbances or inappropriate actions if the actions themselves are not permanent. Conversely, the more interference there has been with basic processes, the greater the severity (and longevity) of effects. Natural processes are complex and interdependent, and it is not possible to predict all the consequences of loss of biodiversity or ecosystem integrity. When a region’s natural or historic level of diversity and integrity is maintained, higher levels of system productivity are supported in the long run and the overall effects of disturbances may be dampened

Isisivane

Isisivane consist of large piles of stones of different sizes and heights.  They are usually near rivers and mountain crossings.  Their purpose and meaning is not fully understood, however some are thought to represent burial cairns while others may have symbolic value

Ecosystem status:

Ecosystem status of terrestrial ecosystems is based on the degree of habitat loss that has occurred in each ecosystem, relative to two thresholds: one for maintaining healthy ecosystem functioning, and one for conserving the majority of species associated with the ecosystem. As natural habitat is lost in an ecosystem, its functioning is increasingly compromised, leading eventually to the collapse of the ecosystem and to loss of species associated with that ecosystem.

Ecosystem:

All of the organisms of a particular habitat, such as a lake or forest, together with the physical environment in which they live

Endangered:

Endangered terrestrial ecosystems have lost significant amounts (more than 60 % lost) of their original natural habitat, so their functioning is compromised.

Endemic:

A plant or animal species, or a vegetation type, which is naturally restricted to a particular defined region. It is often confused with indigenous, which means ‘native, occurring naturally in a defined area’.

Environment:

The external circumstances, conditions and objects that affect the existence and development of an individual, organism or group.  These circumstances include biophysical, social, economic, historical and cultural aspects.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):

A study of the environmental consequences of a proposed course of action

Exotic:

Non-indigenous; introduced from elsewhere, may also be a weed or alien invasive species.  Exotic species may be invasive or non-invasive.

Fragmentation (habitat):

Causes land transformation, an important current process in landscapes as more and more development occurs.

Habitat:

The home of a plant or animal species. Generally those features of an area inhabited by animal or plant which are essential to its survival.

Indigenous:

Native; occurring naturally in a defined area.

Least threatened terrestrial ecosystems:

These ecosystems have lost only a small proportion (more than 80 % remains) of their original natural habitat, and are largely intact (although they may be degraded to varying degrees, for example by invasive alien species, overgrazing, or overharvesting from the wild).

Method statement (construction):

A method statement is prepared for each task on a particular site by the contractor; the group of work method statements are then packaged and included in the overall Construction Plan.

Off-sets:

Compensation for biodiversity loss resulting from authorized changes in land use. Can include assigning stewardship or protected area status to remaining conservation-worthy land or making a financial bequest for purposes of biodiversity conservation.

Riparian:

Pertaining to, situated on or associated with a river bank.

River corridors:

River corridors perform a number of ecological functions such as modulating stream flow, storing water, removing harmful materials from water, and providing habitat for aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. These corridors also have vegetation and soil characteristics distinctly different from surrounding uplands and support higher levels of species diversity, species densities, and rates of biological productivity than most other landscape elements. Rivers provide for migration and exchange between inland and coastal biotas.

Scoping

A procedure to consult with stakeholders to determine issues and concerns and for determining the extent of and approach to the EIS, used to focus the EIA

Scoping Report

A written report describing the issues identified to date for inclusion in an EIA.

Transformation:

In ecology, transformation refers to adverse changes to biodiversity, typically habitats or ecosystems, through processes such as cultivation, forestry, drainage of wetlands, urban development or invasion by alien plants or animals. Transformation results in habitat fragmentation – the breaking up of a continuous habitat, ecosystem, or landuse type into smaller fragments.

Transformed Habitat/Land

Land that has been significantly impacted upon by man’s activities (Such as cultivation, urban development, mining, landscaping, severe overgrazing), and where the original structure, species composition and functioning of ecological processes have been irreversibly altered. Transformed habitats are not capable of being restored to their original states.

Tributary/ Drainage line:

A small stream or river flowing into a larger one.

Untransformed habitat/land

Land that has not been significantly impacted upon by man’s activities.  These are ecosystems that are in a near-pristine condition in terms of structure, species composition and functioning of ecological processes.

Vulnerable:

Vulnerable terrestrial ecosystems have lost some (more than 60 % remains) of their original natural habitat, and their functioning will be compromised if they continue to lose natural habitat.

Weed:

An indigenous or non-indigenous plant that grows and reproduces aggressively, usually a ruderal pioneer of disturbed areas.  Weeds may be unwanted because they are unsightly, or they limit the growth of other plants by blocking light or using up nutrients from the soil. They also can harbour and spread plant pathogens.

Wetlands:

A collective term used to describe lands that are sometimes or always covered by shallow water or have saturated soils, and where plants adapted for life in wet conditions usually grow.

 

This Report has been prepared by Engineering Advice and Services, with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the contract with the client, incorporating our standard terms and conditions of business and taking into account the resources devoted to it by agreement with the client.  EAS disclaims any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside of the scope of the above. 

This report is exclusive to the client and the described project.  EAS accepts no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this Background Information Document, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such persons or parties rely on the report at their own risk.

 

Release Notes

Report Version

Date

Public Draft

14 November 2014

Final Report

~ 10 January 2015

 

 


1         Introduction & Overview

The Eastern Cape Department of Roads and Public works (DRPW) require material for general maintenance of provincial roads, in particular gravel roads.  There are numerous existing borrow pits (BP’s) that have been historically used to maintain these roads, however these are not formally registered with the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR).

 

EAS was appointed as the independent consultants to assess the environmental impacts and requirements in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA, Act 28 of 2002).  This includes submitting an application for a mining right (this document), to the DMR, for the sourcing of material for re-gravelling of roads in the area from 8 existing unlicensed borrow pits.  This EMP is prepared in accordance with the requirements of the MPRDA and DMR

 

Applicants for mining permits, are herewith, in terms of the provisions of Section 29 (a) and in terms of section 39 (5) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, directed to submit an Environmental Management Plan strictly in accordance with the subject headings, and to compile the content according to all the sub items to the said subject headings referred to in the guideline published on the Departments website, within 60 days of notification by the Regional Manager of the acceptance of such application. This EMP document adheres to the standard format provided by the Department in terms of Regulation 52 (2).

 

1.1         Legal and Administrative Requirements

The permitting will be undertaken in accordance with the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA; No. 28 of 2002).  As an organ of state, the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW) has obtained exemption from the provisions of sections 16, 20, 22 and 27 (application process) of the MPRDA in respect of any activity to remove any material for the construction and maintenance of dams, harbours, roads and railway lines and for the purposes incidental thereto, as allowed by the said act in section 106 (1).  As such the utilisation of resources is subject only to the preparation, submission and approval of an EMP, compiled in accordance with the requirements of the MPRDA.

 

The purpose of the EMP is to identify and assess potential impacts associated with the project through a process of environmental investigations, stakeholder and public consultation, and to provide sufficient detail on the project to the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR), in order to allow DMR to make an informed decision on the project.

 

1.1.1        MPRDA Section 106 (1)

Exemptions from certain provisions of Act

106. (1) The Minister may by notice in the Gazette, exempt any organ of state from the provisions of sections 16, 20, 22 and 27 in respect of any activity to remove any mineral for road construction, building of dams or other purpose which may be identified in such notice.

(2) Despite subsection (1), the organ of state so exempted must submit an environmental management programme for approval in terms of section 39(4).

(3) Any landowner or lawful occupier of land who lawfully, takes sand, stone, rock, gravel or clay for farming or for effecting improvements in connection with such land or community development purposes, is exempted from the provisions of in subsection (1) as long as the sand, stone, rock, gravel or clay is not sold or disposed of.

 

With regard to the environment, Section 37(1) of the MPRDA provides that the environmental management principles listed in Section 2 of the National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA) must guide the interpretation, administration and implementation of the environmental requirements of the MPRDA, and makes those principles applicable to all prospecting and mining operations.  The NEMA principles apply throughout South Africa to the actions of all organs of state that may significantly affect the environment, and thus to decision making on mining applications.  These principles require that impacts on biodiversity and ecological integrity are avoided, and if they cannot altogether be avoided, are minimised and remedied.  They also specify that the costs of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and consequent adverse health effects and of preventing, controlling or minimising further pollution, environmental damage or adverse health effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the environment.  Moreover the responsibility for the environmental health and safety consequences of a policy, programme, project, product, process, service or activity exists throughout its life cycle.

 

Furthermore, Section 37(2) of the MPRDA states that “any prospecting or mining operation must be conducted in accordance with generally accepted principles of sustainable development by integrating social, economic and environmental factors into the planning and implementation of prospecting and mining projects in order to ensure that exploitation of mineral resources serves present and future generations”.

 

To ensure this, the MPRDA stipulates that:

1.       The NEMA principles apply to all mining and serve as guidelines for the interpretation, administration and implementation of the environmental requirements of the MPRDA (Section 37(1)).

2.       the holder of a permission/right/permit (Section 38):

3.       must consider, investigate, assess and communicate the impact of his or her prospecting or mining on the environment

4.       must manage all environmental impacts

5.       must – as far as is reasonably practicable, rehabilitate the environment to its natural or predetermined state, or to a land use which conforms to the generally accepted principle of sustainable development

6.       is responsible for environmental damage, pollution or ecological degradation as a result of reconnaissance, prospecting or mining operations which may occur inside and outside the boundaries of the areas to which such right, permission or permit relates.

7.       the permission/right/permit may be issued if the Minister is satisfied that it will take place within the framework of national environmental management policies, norms and standards (Section 48(2)).

 

The MPRDA includes some key legal and regulatory mechanisms:

1.       EMP: this is the main tool used to mitigate and manage environmental impacts, detailing the proposed measures to be undertaken. The requirements of an EMP in the MPRDA (and dependent on the permission/right/permit to which it will be applied) are slightly different to those prescribed in Section 24N of NEMA (Amendment Act 62 of 2008), but generally both are giving effect to similar general objectives of integrated environmental management laid down in Section 23 of NEMA. The MPRDA requires mining operators to obtain environmental approval in advance of operations. It also imposes on-going environmental management and mitigation obligations throughout the mining life cycle. The EMP requires the applicant to undertake an EIA (see section 3.4 for more detail) and to set out the applicant’s financial provision for mitigation. The MPRDA (Regulation 51(a)(i)) also requires that environmental objectives and goals for closure are included in the EMP, highlighting the need to plan with closure in mind.

2.       MPRDA Pollution Control and Waste Management Regulations: provide that water management and pollution control comply with the provisions of the National Water Act. It further provides that control of erosion and soil pollution control comply with applicable legislative requirements.

3.       Prohibition or restriction of mining or prospecting: in terms of Section 49 of the MPRDA, the Minister of Mineral Resources may completely prohibit or restrict the granting of any permission/permit/right if the land is residential area, public road, railway or cemetery, being used for public or government purposes or reserved in terms of any other law. This provision allows the Minister, in consultation with other relevant Departments, to prohibit or restrict granting permission/right/permit in certain areas of critical biodiversity, heritage and hydrological importance.

4.       In addition to the MPRDA, mining companies also need to comply with a range of other laws which regulate mining impacts on the environment. These include:

5.       Constitution of Republic of South Africa, 1996: Section 24(a) of the Constitution states that everyone has the right ‘to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being’. Mines must comply with South African constitutional law by conducting their activities with due diligence and care for the rights of others.

6.       NEMA: Environmental management principles set out in NEMA, and other Specific Environmental Management Acts (SEMAs) should guide decision making throughout the mining life cycle to reflect the objective of sustainable development25. Mining is prohibited in protected areas defined in the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (No. 57 of 2003; hereafter referred to as Protected Areas Act).

7.       One of the most important and relevant principles is that disturbance of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, pollution and degradation of environment and sites that constitute the nation’s cultural heritage should be avoided, minimised or as a last option remedied. This is supported by the Biodiversity Act as it relates to loss of biodiversity.

8.       EIA Regulations (GN No. R. 543) published in terms of NEMA trigger the need for applicants to undertake either a Basic Assessment or Scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment if the proposed activity is included in one or more of the three Listing Notices; and Listing Notice 3 (listing activities and sensitive areas per province, for which a Basic Assessment process must be conducted) (GN No. R. 546).

9.       In some cases both the MPRDA and NEMA require the identification, assessment and evaluation of impacts, and the determination of appropriate mitigation measures. An EMP may be required for activities subject to an EIA under NEMA.

10.   Water Use Authorizations: the National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) requires that provision is made both in terms of water quantity and quality for ‘the reserve’, namely to meet the ecological requirements of freshwater systems and basic human needs of downstream communities. It is essential in preparing an EMP that any impacts on water resources, be they surface water or groundwater resources, and/ or impacts on water quality or flow, are carefully assessed and evaluated against both the reserve requirement and information on biodiversity priorities. This information will be required in applications for water use licenses or permits and/or in relation to waste disposal authorizations.

11.   Mine-water regulations (Government Notice (GN) No. R. 704) are aimed at ensuring the protection of water resources through restrictions on locality, material, and the design, construction, maintenance and operation of separate clean and dirty water systems. Detailed regulations on the use of water for mine-related activities were issued in 1999 under the National Water Act framework.

12.   Liability for any environmental damage, pollution, or ecological degradation: arising from any and all mining-related activities occurring inside or outside the area to which the permission/right/permit relates is the responsibility of the rights holder. This liability continues until such time as a closure certificate is issued by the Minister of Mineral Resources. Company directors or members of a close corporation are jointly and individually liable for any unacceptable impact on the environment, regardless of whether it was caused intentionally or through negligence. The National Water Act and NEMA both oblige any person to take all reasonable measures to prevent pollution or degradation from occurring, continuing or reoccurring (polluter pays principle). Where a person/company fails to take such measures, a relevant authority may direct specific measures to be taken and, failing that, may carry out such measures and recover costs from the person responsible.

13.   Public participation: Public consultation and participation processes prior to granting licenses or authorizations can be an effective way of ensuring that the range of ways in which mining’s impact on the environment, social and economic conditions are addressed, and taken into account when the administrative discretion to grant or refuse the license is made. Further, under Section 10 of the MPRDA, which requires that interested and affected parties be made aware that an application has been accepted and are given 30 days to submit comments, any objections should initiate the establishment of a Regional Mining Development and Environmental Committee (RMDEC).

14.   Provincial legislation, such as the Land Use Planning Ordinance (No. 15 of 1985) (LUPO) the Orange Free State’s Townships Ordinance (No. 9 of 1969), and the Transvaal Province’s Town-Planning and Townships Ordinance (No. 15 of 1986) which applies in Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga: to regulate land use and to provide for matters incidental thereto. Zoning schemes may have implications for mining and mining associated activities. Where mining is not permitted within a zoning scheme, the holder of a mining right or permit will need to apply for these areas to be rezoned in order to allow mining.

15.   National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999): describes the importance of heritage in the South African context, and designates the South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) as guardian of the national estate which may include heritage resources of cultural significance that link to biodiversity, such as places to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage, historical settlements, landscapes and natural features of cultural significance, archaeological and paleontological sites, graves and burial grounds, or movable objects associated with living heritage. Further, formal protections under the Natural Heritage Resources Act include: national heritage sites and provincial heritage sites (some recognized globally under the World Heritage Convention), and protected areas amongst others.

 

A detailed list of Biodiversity and mining related legislation includes the following:

1.       Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. 28 of 2002)

2.       National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998), as amended 2008

3.       National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004)

4.       National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (No. 57 of 2003)

5.       National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (No. 57 of 2003)

6.       National Environmental Management Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008)

7.       National Environmental Management EIA Regulations (GN No. R. 543) and Listing Notices 1,2 and 3 (GN No. 544, 545 and 546 respectively)

8.       National Forest Act (No. 84 of 1998)

9.       National Veld and Forest Fire Act (No. 101 of 1998)

10.   Mountain Catchment Act (No. 63 of 1970)

11.   National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998)

12.   Mine-water regulations (GN No. R. 704)

13.   Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (No. 3 of 2000)

14.   Promotion of Access to Information Act (No. 2 of 2000)

15.   Land Use Planning Ordinance (No. 15 of 1985)

16.   National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999)

17.   World Heritage Convention Act (No. 49 of 1999)

18.   Municipal Systems Act (No. 32 of 2000)

19.   Integrated Coastal Management Act (No. 24 of 2008)

20.   Marine Living Resources Act (No. 18 of 1998)

21.   Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA; No 43 of 1983) (as amended 2001)

 

1.2         NEMA principles of particular relevance to biodiversity:

1.       Section 2(4)(a)(i): the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied.

2.       Section 2(4)(a)(ii): pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied.

3.       Section 2(4)(a)(vi): the development, use and exploitation of renewable resources and the ecosystems of which they are part do not exceed the level beyond which their integrity is jeopardized.

4.       Section 2(4)(a)(vii): a risk-averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into account the limits of current knowledge about the consequences of decisions and actions.

5.       Section 2(4)(e): responsibility for the environmental health and safety consequences of a policy, programme, project, product, process, service or activity exists throughout its life cycle.

6.       Section 2(4)(o): The environment is held in public trust for the people, the beneficial use of environmental resources must serve the public interest and the environment must be protected as the people's common heritage.

7.       Section 2(4)(p): The costs of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and consequent adverse health effects and of preventing, controlling or minimizing further pollution, environmental damage or adverse health effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the environment.

8.       Section 2(4)(r): Sensitive, vulnerable, highly dynamic or stressed ecosystems, such as coastal habitats including dunes, beaches and estuaries, reefs, wetlands, and similar ecosystems require specific attention in management and planning procedures, especially where they are subject to significant human resource usage and development pressure.

 

1.3         Responsibilities of Role Players

1.3.1        Developer

The Developer (DRPW) remains ultimately responsible for ensuring that the development is implemented according to the requirements of the EMP.  The developer is responsible for ensuring that sufficient resources (time, financial, human, equipment, etc0 are available to the other role players (e.g. the ECO, CLO and contractor) to efficiently and effectively perform their tasks in terms of the EMP.  The Developer is liable for restoring the environment in the event of negligence leading to damage to the environment.  The developer shall endure that the EMP is included in the tender documentation so that the contractor who is appointed is bound to the conditions of the EMP.  The developer is responsible for appointing an Environmental Control Officer (ECO) to oversee all the environmental aspects relating to the development.

 

1.3.2        Consulting Engineer

The Consulting Engineer, is bound to the EMP conditions through his/her contract with the developer, and is responsible for ensuring the she/he adheres to all the conditions of the EMP.  The Consulting Engineer shall thoroughly familiarise him/her-self with the EMP requirements before coming onto site and shall request clarification on any aspects of these documents, should they be unclear.

 

1.3.3        Contractor

The Contractor, as the developer’s agent on site, is bound to the EMP conditions through his/her contract to the developer, and is responsible for ensuring that she/he adheres to all the conditions of the EMP.  The Contractor shall thoroughly familiarise him/her-self with the EMP requirements before coming onto site and shall request clarification on any aspects of these documents, should they be unclear.  The contractor shall ensure that he/she has provided sufficient budget for complying with all EMP conditions at the tender stage.  The Contractor shall comply with all orders (whether verbal or written) given by the ECO/Contract Engineer in terms of the EMP.

 

1.3.4        Environmental Control Officer

The ECO is appointed by the developer as an independent monitor of the implementation of the EMP.  He/she shall form part of the project team and shall be involved in all aspects of project planning that can influence environmental conditions on the site.  The ECO shall attend relevant project meetings, conduct inspections to assess compliance with the EMP and be responsible for providing feedback on potential environmental problems associated with the development.  In addition, the ECO is responsible for:

1.       Liaison with relevant authorities;

2.       Liaison with contractors regarding environmental management;

3.       Undertaking routine monitoring and appointing a competent person/institution to be responsible for specialist monitoring, if necessary;

4.       The ECO has the right to enter the site and undertake monitoring, auditing and assessment at any time, with the agreement of the Contractor, which agreement shall not be unreasonably withheld.

 

1.3.5        Environmental Liaison Officer

The contractor shall appoint an Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) to assist with the day-to-day monitoring of activities on site.  Any issue raised by the ECO shall be routed to the ELO for the contractor’s attention.  The ELO shall be permanently on site during the construction phase to ensure daily environmental compliance. With the EMP and shall be ideally a senior member of the contractors management team.  The ELO shall be responsible for ensuring that all staff members are adequately trained and aware of the EMP.  The ELO shall be responsible for undertaking weekly environmental inspections and accompany the ECO during site visits, audits or assessments.

 

1.4         Approach

This report incorporates all the information required by the Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development regulations for Environmental Management Plans, namely:

1.       A description of the environment likely to be affected by the proposed prospecting or mining operation.

2.       Assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed prospecting or mining operation on the environment, socio- economic conditions and cultural heritage.

3.       Summary of the assessment of the significance of the potential impacts and the proposed mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts.

4.       Planned monitoring and performance assessment of the environmental management plan.

5.       Closure and environmental objectives.

6.       Record of the public participation and the results thereof.

7.       Environmental awareness plan.

8.       Proof of financial provision.

9.       Capacity to rehabilitate and manage negative impacts on the environment.

10.   Undertaking to execute the environmental management plan.

 

1.5      Limitations

EAS has prepared this report for the sole use of the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW) in accordance with generally accepted consulting practices and for the intended purposes as stated in the agreement under which this work was completed.  This report may not be relied upon by any other party without the explicit written agreement of the Department of Roads and Public Works and EAS.  No other warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to the professional advice included in this report.

 

The conclusions and recommendations contained in this report are based upon information provided by others and the assumption that all relevant information has been provided by those bodies from whom it has been requested.  Where field investigations have been carried out, they have been restricted to a level of detail required to achieve the stated objective of the work.

 

All items listed in EAS Standard Terms and Conditions of Business are applicable to this report.

 

This report was compiled from information obtained from the following sources:

1.       Numerous site visits and assessments.

2.       Public participation

3.       Information on the biophysical environment (Mr Jamie Pote)

4.       Geotechnical Testing of Borrow Pit material (Outeniqua Lab EC cc.)

 

1.6         Applicant and Consultant Details

Table 1: Details of Applicant

ITEM

APPLICANT CONTACT DETAILS

Name

Eastern Cape Department of Roads & Public Works

Tel No:

(040) 602 4000

Fax No:

(040) 602 4001

Call centre:

0800 864 951

Postal Address

Private Bag X0022, Bhisho, 5605

 

Table 2: Details of Consultant

ITEM

CONSULTANT CONTACT DETAILS

Name

Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd

Tel No:

041 581 2421

Fax No:

086 683 9899

E-mail Address:

jamiep@easpe.co.za

Postal Address

P.O. BOX 13867, Humewood, Port Elizabeth, 6013

 

 

 


 

1.7         Report Structure

This report is divided into 9 chapters:

 

Chapter 1:

Consists of the project introduction, background and Regional Context of the mining application and the area in which the Borrow Pits are located.

 

Chapter 2:

Specific Information relating to the individual Borrow Pits, grouped per borrow pit, addressing the following sections of the MPRDA:

·         REGULATION 52 (2): Description of the environment likely to be affected by the proposed prospecting or mining operation

a)      The environment on site relative to the environment in the surrounding area.

b)      The specific environmental features on the site applied for which may require protection, remediation, management or avoidance.

c)       Map showing the spatial locality of all environmental, cultural/heritage and current land use features identified on site.

d)      Confirmation that the description of the environment has been compiled with the participation of the community, the landowner and interested and affected parties,

 

Chapter 3:

·         REGULATION 52 (2) (b): Assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed prospecting or mining operation on the environment, socio- economic conditions and cultural heritage.

a)      Description of the proposed prospecting or mining operation.

                                             i.            The main prospecting activities (e.g. access roads, topsoil storage sites and any other basic prospecting design features )

                                           ii.            Plan of the main activities with dimensions

                                          iii.            Description of construction, operational, and decommissioning phases.

                                         iv.            Listed activities (in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations)

b)      Identification of potential impacts  (Refer to the guideline)

c)       Potential impacts per activity and listed activities.

                                             i.            Potential cumulative impacts.

                                           ii.            Potential impact on heritage resources

                                          iii.            Potential impacts on communities, individuals or competing land uses in close proximity.  (If no such impacts are identified this must be specifically stated together with a clear explanation why this is not the case.)

                                         iv.            Confirmation that the list of potential impacts has been compiled with the participation of the landowner and interested and affected parties,

                                           v.            Confirmation of specialist report appended (Refer to guideline)

·         REGULATION 52 (2) (c): Summary of the assessment of the significance of the potential impacts and the proposed mitigation measures to minimise adverse impacts.

a)      Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts

                                             i.            Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts

                                           ii.            Potential impact of each main activity in each phase, and corresponding significance assessment

                                          iii.            Assessment of potential cumulative impacts.

Chapter 4:

3.       REGULATION 52 (2) (c): Summary of the assessment of the significance of the potential impacts and the proposed mitigation measures to minimise adverse impacts.

a)      Proposed mitigation measures to minimise adverse impacts.

                                             i.            List of actions, activities, or processes that have sufficiently significant impacts to require mitigation.

                                           ii.            Concomitant list of appropriate technical or management options (Chosen to modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity, or process which will cause significant impacts on the environment, socio-economic conditions and historical and cultural aspects as identified. Attach detail of each technical or management option as appendices)

                                          iii.            Review the significance of the identified impacts (After bringing the proposed mitigation measures into consideration).

 

Chapter 5:

4.       REGULATION 52 (2) (e): Planned monitoring and performance assessment of the environmental management plan.

a)      List of identified impacts requiring monitoring programmes.

b)      Functional requirements for monitoring programmes.

c)       Roles and responsibilities for the execution of monitoring programmes.

d)      Committed time frames for monitoring and reporting.

 

5.       REGULATION 52 (2) (f): Closure and environmental objectives.

a)      Rehabilitation plan (Show the areas and aerial extent of the main prospecting activities, including the anticipated prospected area at the time of closure).

b)      Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment.

c)       Confirmation of consultation (Confirm specifically that the environmental objectives in relation to closure have been consulted with landowner and interested and affected parties).

 

Chapter 6:

6.       REGULATION 52 (2) (g): Record of the public participation and the results thereof.

a)      Identification of interested and affected parties. (Provide the information referred to in the guideline)

b)      The details of the engagement process.

                                             i.            Description of the information provided to the community, landowners, and interested and affected parties.

                                           ii.            List of which parties identified in 7.1 above that were in fact consulted, and which were not consulted.

                                          iii.            List of views raised by consulted parties regarding the existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment.

                                         iv.            List of views raised by consulted parties on how their existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment potentially will be impacted on by the proposed prospecting or mining operation.

                                           v.            Other concerns raised by the aforesaid parties.

                                         vi.            Confirmation that minutes and records of the consultations are appended.

                                        vii.            Information regarding objections received.

c)       The manner in which the issues raised were addressed.

 

Chapter 7

7.       SECTION 39 (3) (c ) of the Act: Environmental awareness plan.

a)      Employee communication process (Describe how the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any environmental risk which may result from their work).

b)      Description of solutions to risks (Describe the manner in which the risk must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or degradation of the environment)t.

c)       Environmental awareness training (Describe the general environmental awareness training and training on dealing with emergency situations and remediation measures for such emergencies).

 

 

Chapter 8:

8.       REGULATION 52 (2) (d): Financial provision. The applicant is required to-

a)      Plans for quantum calculation purposes (Show the location and aerial extent of the aforesaid main mining actions, activities, or processes, for each of the construction operational and closure phases of the operation).

b)      Alignment of rehabilitation with the closure objectives (Describe and ensure that the rehabilitation plan is compatible with the closure objectives determined in accordance with the baseline study as prescribed).

c)       Quantum calculations (Provide a calculation of the quantum of the financial provision required to manage and rehabilitate the environment, in accordance with the guideline prescribed in terms of regulation 54 (1) in respect of each of the phases referred to).

d)      Undertaking to provide financial provision (Indicate that the required amount will be provided should the right be granted).

 

Chapter 9

9.       SECTION 39 (4) (a) (iii) of the Act: Capacity to rehabilitate and manage negative impacts on the environment.

a)      The annual amount required to manage and rehabilitate the environment (Provide a detailed explanation as to how the amount was derived)

b)      Confirmation that the stated amount correctly reflected in the Prospecting Work Programme as required

 

10.   REGULATION 52 (2) (h): Undertaking to execute the environmental management plan.


2         Proposed Project Description

2.1         Motivation

Existing gravel roads subject to the proposed project in the Umzimvubu and Matatiele Local Municipalities have been identified by the department of Roads and Public Works as being in need of maintenance and re-gravelling. The specific roads in the abovementioned Local Municipal Areas are the DR08090, DR08102, DR08425, DR08129, DR08109, DR08106, DR08104 and DR08099roads.

 

Gravel roads weather over relatively short periods of time and require periodical re-gravelling. The gravel roads identified for re-gravelling display defects such as corrugation, ravelling, and exposed oversized stones.  The roads to be re-gravelled provide access to remote villages and the poor quality of the roads have a significant impact on the lives of the local residents as alternative routes to nearby towns are often too far to travel and add extra costs to travel for individuals.

 

In order to re-gravel the specified roads, large amounts of material is deeded for mostly the wearing course of the road. In some cases the material is of such a nature that is can be grid rolled to the appropriate size, and in others the material would be crushed due to the physical properties of the material. Quality control of material would include blending harder materials with fines to obtain an optimal material quality. The extensions of existing borrow pits for the collection of materials for the specified roads is being proposed.

 

2.2         Activity Description

After a preliminary screening of borrow pits along the DR08090, DR08102, DR08425, DR08129, DR08109, DR08106, DR08104 and DR08099 roads, 8 borrow pits were selected subject to criteria including material type, location, access, surrounding land use, slope, erosion, hydrology and sensitive vegetation or heritage features. The borrow pits will be used exclusively for the upgrade/re-gravelling of the road they are situated adjacent to.

 

If approved, this EMP will be used as guidelines for the excavation of material from the proposed borrow pits and the rehabilitation thereof.

 

2.3         Activity Location

The locations of all the proposed borrow pits and the road sections they are to be used for are shown in Figure 1.

The affected roads are situated south of Matatiele and north of Mount Frere.


 

2.4         Borrow Pit Locations

Table 3: Locality of proposed borrow pits.

Road

BP

LMA

Land Owner

Coordinates

Location description

DR08090

19.7

Umzimvubu

Communal

30.85851 S

Existing BP site; situated 19.7km along the DR08090 north from the DR08015.

28.75354 E

DR08102

7.9

Ntabankulu

Communal

 S

Existing BP site; situated 7.9km along the DR08109 west from the R394.

 E

DR08425

13.3

Umzimvubu

Communal

 S

Existing BP site; situated 8.4km along the DR08425 south from the N2.

 E

DR08129

11.2

Umzimvubu

Communal

30.98000 S

Existing BP site; situated 11.2km along the DR08129 south from the N2.

29.02369 E

15.3

Umzimvubu

Communal

31.00360 S

Existing BP site; situated 15.3km along the DR08129 south from the N2.

29.01273 E

DR08109

4.5

Ntabankulu

Communal

30.88876 S

Existing BP site; situated 4.5km along the DR08109 south from the N2.

29.12054 E

DR08106

0.1

Ntabankulu

Communal

30.93224 S

Existing BP site; situated 0.1km along the DR08106 south from the DR08109.

29.29937 E

DR08104

6.9

Ntabankulu

Communal

30.82454 S

Existing BP site; situated 6.9km along the DR08104 south from the DR08102.

29.52325 E

DR08099

7.0

Umzimvubu

Communal

30.70886 S

Existing BP site; situated 7.0km along the DR08099 north from the N2.

29.36646 E

*Communal – Department of Rural Development and Land Reform

 

2.5         Description of the Existing Environment

2.5.1        Introduction

A screening of Regional Biodiversity Features was undertaken, based on a model developed that included the following features:

1.       Protected areas

2.       World Heritage Sites and their legally proclaimed buffers

3.       Critically Endangered and Endangered ecosystems

4.       Critical Biodiversity Areas

5.       River and wetland Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (FEPAs), and

6.       100 m Buffer of rivers and wetlands

7.       RAMSAR Sites

8.       Protected area buffers

9.       Trans-frontier Conservation Areas (remaining areas outside of formally proclaimed PAs)

10.   High water yield areas

11.   Coastal Protection Zone

12.   Estuarine functional zones

13.   Ecological support areas

14.   Vulnerable ecosystems

15.   Focus areas for land-based protected area expansion and focus areas.

 

A summary of these features (illustrated in Figure 4 to Figure 6) is provided in Table 4 below.

 

Table 4: Summary of Biodiversity features for the Borrow Pit sites.

Borrow Pit

Vegetation Type:

Status

Present land use:

CBA

DR08090/19.7

East Griqualand Grassland

Vulnerable

Natural

2

DR08102/7.9

Midlands Mistbelt Grassland

Endangered

Natural

2

DR08425/13.3

Eastern Valley Bushveld

Endangered

Natural

-

DR08129/11.2

Eastern Valley Bushveld

Endangered

Natural

2

DR08129/15.3

East Griqualand Grassland

Vulnerable

Natural

2

DR08109/4.5

East Griqualand Grassland

Vulnerable

Natural/Urban

2

DR08106/0.1

East Griqualand Grassland

Vulnerable

Natural/Urban

-

DR08104/6.9

Midlands Mistbelt Grassland

Endangered

Natural

1

DR08099/7.0

East Griqualand Grassland

Vulnerable

Natural

1

 

2.5.2        Site Locality

The locations of all the proposed borrow pits and the road sections they are to be used for are shown in Figure 1.  The affected roads are situated in the vicinity of Mount Frere and Lady Frere along the N2 between Mthatha and Kokstad.

 

2.5.3        Topography

The surrounding area can generally be described as flat or gentle undulating lowland plains intersected by moderately rolling hills and mountains, much incised by river gorges.  Drainage of the region is mainly in a south-easterly direction.

 

2.5.4        Geology and soils

As per the Geological Map in Figure 2, the Geology in the region consists of the following:

Symbol

Lithology

Formation

Jd

Volcanic Rocks, gabbro, pikriet (Dolerite)

Karroo sequence, Drakensberg Group

Jdb

Volcanic Rocks, Basaltic Lava, subordinate tuff and agglomerate

Drakensberg Group

TRm

Volcanic Rocks, Basaltic Lava, subordinate tuff and agglomerate

Karroo sequence, Drakensberg Group,  Molteno Formation

TRb

Brownish Red and grey mudstone, sandstone (Sedimentary)

Karroo sequence, Beaufort Group,  Tarkastad subgroup,  Burgersdorp Formation

TRe

Brownish-red and grey mudstones, sandstone

Drakensberg Group, Elliot Formation

Alluvium

Alluvium

 

 

The study area is underlain mostly by sedimentary rocks of the Early Triassic Period Karoo Supergroup, which was formed under fluvial conditions when the inland Karoo Sea was drying out and wide plains were being carved by large river systems. These rivers deposited the sands and muds on broad flood plains which over time became inter-bedded sandstone and mudstone of the Katberg and Burgersdorp Formations (both of the Tarkastad Subgroup, Karoo Supergroup).

 

The Katberg Formation has been mapped in the southern and south-western part of the site and is dominated by sandstone lithologies formed by multi-channelled braided river environments. The braided river system resulted in the development of a deeply eroded landscape with few fine-grained (mud and silt) overbank deposits developing. This formation therefore consists mainly of sandstone with sub-ordinate argillaceous (rock containing clay) maroon-coloured mudstone.

 

A return to a meandering river system is reflected in the mudstone-dominated strata of the Burgersdorp Formation, which has been mapped in the eastern and north-eastern parts of the study area. This formation is dominated by maroon, grey and olive-coloured mudstone and is considered a distal equivalent to that of the Katberg Formation.

 

These Beaufort Group rocks are interrupted by doleritic dykes (vertical intrusion) and sills (horizontal intrusion) formed during the Jurassic Period. These intrusions forced their way between the sedimentary strata during the eruption phases that formed the Drakensberg Group basalts. The sedimentary rocks into which the dolerite intruded are often altered (metamorphosed) in aureoles adjacent to intrusions (e.g. Hornfels). The dolerite has a regional north-south trend around which the Sabalele Road has been constructed. This material is, therefore, likely to be intersected in outcrop in the southern part of the study area.

 

Geotechnical Interpretation

The Karoo Supergroup rocks generally reveal a subdued topography in the study area with a variable weathering profile. The sandstone lithologies tend to be more weathering resistant and are blanketed by a thinner soil cover than that of the softer, mudstone rocks. The completely weathered rock/ residual soil interface is commonly susceptible to dispersion and piping erosion, resulting in the development of the characteristic donga-marked landscape where sloping ground prevails.

 

The sandstone lithologies have a rock strength that is often considered too low for use as base course or sub base,  yet it is too high (and has little binding capabilities) for use as a crushed wearing course on unsurfaced roads. This material is likely to require crushing for any aggregate application. The mudstone rocks also have a rock strength that is considered too low for use as base course or sub base. The rock is, however, often a preferred material for gravel wearing course applications, and breaks down easily on the roadway during mechanical placement. Most of the Karoo Supergroup rocks are considered suitable for select subgrade applications.

 

The intrusive dolerites can be highly variable in terms of rock strengths and weathering profiles. The geotechnical properties of these rocks are often affected by the cooling rates of the magma when they were formed; slow cooling magma forms larger crystals that develop into high strength rocks, whilst quickly cooling magma forms smaller crystals that can eventuate into low strength rocks. The dolerite also displays a weathering profile that can be deep (tens of metres) and dominated by fresh rock core stones of variable sizes, or shallow weathering with soil cover often less than one metre underlain by competent rock without core stones. The weathering profiles and rock strengths of dolerite are not easily ascertainable based on surface outcrop. It is common, nevertheless, for the dolerite outcrop to reveal a positively weathered landform in the study area, frequently associated with a very different vegetation cover to that of the surrounding Karoo Supergroup rocks.

 

The extremely weathered dolerite reveals a deep red-coloured soil cover often pock-marked with sub-rounded and well-rounded dolerite core stones. These weathered soils are often highly dispersive and erosion scours are common in areas where positive relief is not offered adequate protection from vegetation cover. Doleritic soil is frequently highly expansive and considered unsuitable for any road construction application. The materials’ construction suitability improves with depth as the highly weathered rock (Sabunga) is considered suitable for gravel wearing course use in arid environments, whilst the moderately weathered, slightly weathered and fresh rock is a well-documented source of good sub base and base course. 

 

2.5.5        Hydrology (Ground and surface water)

The drainage of the area generally flows in a south-easterly direction (Figure 3).  The Mvenyane and Kinira Rivers, being tributaries of the Mzimvubu River is the main catchment system.  The minor seasonal streams in the surrounding area in proximity to the Borrow Pits are tributaries of this system.  Where Borrow Pits are in the vicinity of drainage lines and rivers, stormwater and runoff will need to be adequately managed to prevent increased turbidity of downstream river systems.  With the proper implementation of the EMP it likely that any existing impacts that are currently present will be reduced.  Rivers area is indicated on the close-up maps of the individual Borrow Pit descriptions.

 

Some wetlands (Natural and artificial) may be in proximity to seasonal wetlands.  As for drainage lines above, runoff will need to be managed and will be dealt with in Borrow Pit descriptions accordingly. After rehabilitation of the Borrow Pits, some areas will probably be natural accumulation areas for runoff from surrounding areas and become small dams or artificial wetlands in the long-term.

 

Groundwater resources could potentially be affected by the mining of Borrow pits due to inadvertent fuel and chemical spills.  If the management measure prescribed below are adhered to it is not anticipated that groundwater resources would be significantly affected by the Borrow Pits.

 

2.5.6        Climate

The area is a predominantly summer rainfall area, with MAP of 780 mm (Kokstad), mostly in the form of thunderstorms.  Mean annual temperatures in the Kokstad area is 12.9 – 15.6°C.  Moderately severe mist and frost as well as occasional snowfalls do occur.

 

2.5.7        Air quality

Air quality levels in rural areas surrounding the Borrow Pit sites are typically good.  The gravel roads are however a source of dust, especially during dry windy conditions.  Air quality may be temporarily affected by the mining and concomitant road surfacing operations during the routine maintenance periods.

 

2.5.8        Noise

The Borrow pit sites are generally situated relatively close to provincial gravel roads, which are an existing source of noise.  The current ambient noise levels are assumed to be relatively high due to road traffic.  Noise receptors during mining operations would typically be residents in the villages nearest to the sites.

 

2.5.9        Paleontological resources

The Beaufort Group is Late Permian (255 million years) to Mid Triassic (237 million years) in age.  Characteristic fossils include fish, amphibians and reptiles with a dominance of mammal-like reptiles (Theraptids).  In addition, characteristic fossils include plant fossils of the Glossopteris flora with occasional invertebrate fossils (freshwater bivalve molluscs).  Most of the fossil specimens represent groups that are now extinct.  It is estimated that less than 5 % of sites have been identified in the Eastern Cape.  There is a lack of identified sites in the District.

 

An internationally important record of life during the early diversification of land vertebrate is provided by the floodplain of the Beaufort Group (Karoo Supergroup).  Giant amphibian coexisted with diapsid reptiles (the ancestors of dinosaurs, birds and most modern reptiles), anapsids (which probably include the ancestors of tortoises) and synapsids, the dominant of the group of the time which included the diverse therapsids (including the ancestors of mammals). The rocks provide the world’s most complete record of the important transition from early reptiles to mammals.

Most plant and animals were decimated during the end-Permian extinction event with Therapsid diversity being a serious contender for the most severe extinction event to affect life on Earth. Ongoing research on the effects of this extinction event is facilitated by the detailed record (afforded by the Beaufort Group strata) of life immediately before and after the event, as well as the gradual recovery of life afterwards.

 

The Beaufort Group is subdivided into a series of biostratigraphic units on the basis of its faunal content. There is a marked faunal change that occurs between the Dicynodon and Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zones and approaches the tops of the Balfour Formation. This corresponds with the major extinction event associated with the Perno-triassic boundary. The Lustrosaurus Assemblage Zone spans the uppermost (Palingkloof) member of the Balfour Formation, the Katberg Formation (Tarkastad Subgroup, Beaufort Group, Karoo Supergroup) and the lower part of the Burgersdorp Formation (Tarkastad Subgroup, Beaufort Group, Karoo Supergroup).

 

The Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone is dominated by a single genus of dicynodont, Lyystrosaurus, which together with the captorhinid reptile (Procolophon) characterise this zone. Biarmosuchian and gorgonopsian Therapside do not survive into the Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone, though therocephalian and cyndontian Therapside exhibit moderate abundance. Captohinid Reptilia are reduced, however, an unprecedented diversity of giant amphibian characterises this interval.

The effect of the end Permian extinction event are also evident in the extensive and important record of fossil plants present in the rocks of the Karoo. Whereas faunas of the Permian age are dominated by a wide range of early seed plants, the Glossopteridale (which probably include the ancestors of modern gymnosperms and ultimately angiosperms), this group appears to have gone entirely extinct during the end-Permian extinction. The rocks of the Karoo provide an unrivalled sequential record of these change and the diversification of other group of plants in the aftermath of the extinction. The strata of the Karoo basin have also yielded fossils insects and insect leaf damage of a range of ages.

 

Though including the uppermost level of the Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone, the Burgersdorp Formation largely corresponds to the Cynognathus Assemblage Zone. Synapsid therapsid diversity does not demonstrate recovery between the Lystrosaurus and Cynognathus assemblage zones. The Dicynodontia, Lystrosaurus and Myosaurus are replace by Kombuisia and the giant Kannemeyeria. Therocephalia exhibit a turnover of taxa at a generic level, but an overall reduction in diversity. Cynodontia (Therapsida, Synasida) alone amongst synapsids demonstrate a slight increase in genera. These include the small advance Cynodont, Cynognathus, which together with the Cynodont Diademodon and the Dicynodont Kannemeyeria, characterise this assemblage zone. Eosuchid and captorhinid Reptilia are moderately common, though showing no generic continuity with taxa of the underlying zone. Amphibia remain diverse, though they are not as generically diverse as in the Lystosaurus Assemblage Zone and likewise demonstrate no genus level continuity therewith. Fossil fish reach their greatest known Karoo Supergroup diversity in the Burgersdorp Formation (Cynognathus Assemblage Zone). Plants (Dadoxylon, Dicroidium and Schizoneura), trace fossils (including both vertebrate and invertebrate burrows) and a freshwater bivalve (Unio karooensis) have also been recovered.

As Dolerite is an intrusive igneous rock, it contains no fossils.

 

2.5.10    Archaeological resources

Archaeological remains can consist of the following:

1.         Human remains (graves, informal graves and cemeteries)

2.         Stone artefacts and tools

3.         Large Stone Features (Isisivane and circular stone walls)

4.         Freshwater shell middens

5.         Historical artefacts and features

6.         Fossil Bone

 

1 Human Remains

Any, and all, human remains that are exposed during all phases of construction must be reported to the archaeologist, nearest museum or relevant heritage resources authority. Construction must then be halted until the archaeologist has investigated and removed the human remains. Human remains may be exposed when a grace or informal burial has been disturbed. Remains are either buried in a flexed position on the side, or in a sitting position with a flat stone capping the location of the burial. Developer are requested to be aware of the exposing human remains.

 

2 Stone Artefacts

Stone artefacts can be difficult for the layman to identify. Large accumulations of flaked stones that do not appear to have been distributed naturally must be reported. If the stone artefacts are associated with bone / faunal remains or any other associated organic and material cultural artefacts, development must be halted immediately and reported to the archaeologist, nearest museum or relevant heritage resources authority.

 

3 Large Stone Features

Even though large stone features occur in different forms and sizes, they are relatively easy to identify. The most common features are roughly circular walls (most collapsed), usually dry packed stone, and may represent: stock enclosures, the remains of wind breaks or cooking shelters. Other features consist of large piles of stones of different sizes and height that are known as isisivane. These features generally occur near river and mountain crossings. The purpose and meaning of the isisivane are not fully understood, however, interpretations include the representation of burial cairns and symbolic value.

 

4 Freshwater Shell Middens

Accumulations of freshwater shell middens comprising mainly freshwater mussel occur along the muddy banks of rivers and streams and were collected by pre-colonial communities as a food resource. The freshwater shell middens generally contain; stone artefacts, pottery, bone and (sometimes) human remains. Freshwater shell middens may be of various sizes and depths. An accumulation that exceeds 1 m² in extent must be report to the archaeologist, nearest museum or relevant heritage resources authority.

 

5 Historical Artefact and Features

These are relatively easy to identify and include the foundations and remain of buildings, packed dry stone walling representing domestic stock kraals. Other items include historical domestic artefacts such as: ceramics, glass, metal and military artefacts and dwellings.

 

6 Fossil Bones

Fossil bones may be embedded in geological deposits. Any concentrations of bone (whether fossilized of not) must be reported to the archaeologist, nearest museum or relevant heritage resources authority.

 

2.5.11    Land Use

As indicated in Figure 6 the Borrow Pits are predominantly located within or adjacent to areas classified as Degraded, Cultivated and in some cases (Peri) Urban as per the SANBI Land Cover (2009) map.

 

2.5.12    Erosion Potential

The erosion potential of soils is the sensitivity of soils to the effects of wind and water on the soil structure.  The erodability index is determined by combining the effects of slope and soil type, rainfall intensity and land use.  A low value indicates a high erosion risk and a high value indicates a low erosion risk.  The area falls within an erodability index of between 7 and 9, indicating that the area has a moderate to high susceptibility to erosion.  Adequate measures must thus be implemented to minimise erosion.

 

2.5.13    Vegetation of Southern Africa

At a regional level, three vegetation types are recognised within the immediate vicinity of the borrow pit sites (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006), which are namely East Griqualand Grassland, Midlands Mistbelt Grassland and Eastern Valley Bushveld (Figure 4).  Midlands Mistbelt Grassland and Eastern Valley Bushveld having an Endangered Status and East Griqualand Grassland being Vulnerable (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

 

Midlands Mistbelt Grassland

 

Eastern Valley Bushveld

 

East Griqualand Grassland (Gs 12)

Present in the east Griqualand region around Kokstad and Mataliele, in hilly country with slopes covered by grassland in places, with patches of bush clumps with Leucosidea sericea (only wet sites) or Diospyros lycioides, Acacia karroo and Ziziphus mucronata in low-lying and very dry sites.  The vegetation is grassland with occasional bushclumps and generally species poor. Occurs predominantly on Mudstones and Sandstones of the Beaufort Group, but also sedimentary rocks of the Molteno, Elliot and Clarens Formations.  Soils generally well-drained with clay present.

 

Conservation: Vulnerable.  Target - 23 %.  Only 0.2 % statutorily conserved in the Malekgonyane (Ongeluksnek) Wildlife Reserve and Mount Currie Nature Reserve.  Over a quarter already transformed for cultivation (maize), plantations and urban sprawl.  Acacia dealbata and Acacia mearnsii are invading these grasslands in places.  Overgrazed areas are prone to erosion.

 

2.5.14    Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP)

Critical biodiversity areas (CBAs) are terrestrial and aquatic features in the landscape that are critical for conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem functioning (SANBI 2007). These form the key output of the conservation plan. They are used to guide protected area selection and should remain in their natural state as far as possible.

 

As indicated in Figure 5, the Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP, 2007) the Borrow Pits are predominantly situated in areas designated a CBA 2 status (terrestrial), with one within designated CBA 1 area.  Due to the limited size of these Borrow Pits, and their location within disturbed areas, their effect on Critical Biodiversity Areas will be minimal.   Individual Borrow Pits that are within CBA 1 or CBA 2 areas will be highlighted and appropriate measures recommended in the Impact and Mitigation sections of the report where necessary.

 

No Borrow Pits are located within designated Reserves (class 1 and class 2) none are within aquatic CBA’s.

 

2.5.15    Implications of Regional Planning frameworks

The expansion of the borrow pits is unlikely to compromise the vegetation units significantly due to:

1.       The small mining footprint.

2.       The generally degraded state of the existing borrow pits and immediate vicinity.

3.       The general close proximity to the road reserves.

4.       The implementation of a formalized rehabilitation plan.

 

Loss of vegetation cover will thus tend to be highly localised and have a minimal impact (individual and cumulative) at a regional level.  Furthermore it will most likely result in an overall improvement of the ecological integrity of existing sites that currently tend to be in a highly degraded state, as a result of inadequate historical remediation methods.

 

The impact of the expansion of existing Borrow Pits, generally located directly adjacent to roads in areas that are generally degraded is unlikely to have any significant negative impact on ecological processes occurring at a regional level.  The implementation of best practice guidelines (as per the EMP) will most likely be effective management to minimise any negative consequences to being located within Critical Biodiversity Areas.  In addition, since the existing Borrow Pits are currently inadequately managed, the implementation of the recommended management actions in the EMP will most likely result in an improvement to the status quo.

 

Any Borrow Pits that are significantly affected by the Regional Planning Frameworks will be dealt with accordingly in their relative Impact and Mitigation sections.

 

2.5.16    Species of Special Concern occurring in the region

Based on a desktop Assessment of existing online databases as well as field verification, the potential list of flora and fauna species that may occur in the vicinity of the Borrow Pits, is quite extensive.  Common flora species such as: Aloe arborescens, Aloe ferox, Aloe maculata, Bulbine abyssinica and Boophone disticha, are common around some of the sites.  

 

The Giant Bull Frog, may be present in wetlands, but are unlikely to be affected by the Borrow Pits, which will not likely impact on any wetlands.  

 

Appendix E provides a detailed list of species protected in term of the P.N.C.O., for which permits may be required should they occur.  However limited field assessments indicate that the majority of these species are unlikely to be present. Due to limited sampling time, Presence or absence cannot be confirmed without detailed seasonal site visits, but the risk of any Critically Endangered or Endangered species being present is Low.  The limited expansion of the Borrow Pits is thus unlikely to result in any significant impact to species conservation.

 

No Red Listed Critically Endangered or Endangered species are recorded for the area, nor are likely to occur at disturbed Borrow Pit sites.

 

Table 5: Species of Special Concern known to occur in the vicinity of the sites.

Scientific Name

Family

Common name

Status

Endemic

Flora

Albuca setosa

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Aloe arborescens

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe ferox

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe maculata

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aristea anceps

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Bergeranthus multiceps

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Boophone disticha

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Brunsvigia grandiflora

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine abyssinica

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine asphodeloides

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine narcissifolia

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus macowanii

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Delosperma repens

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Dierama atrum

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Dietes iridioides

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Drimia macrocentra

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Eulophia foliosa

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Gasteria excelsa

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus longicollis subsp. longicollis

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus mortonius

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Haemanthus humilis subsp. humilis

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Holothrix scopularia

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis acuminata

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis angustifolia var. buchananii

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Ledebouria cooperi

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ledebouria revoluta

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum longibracteatum

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum tenuifolium subsp. tenuifolium

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ruschia putterillii

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium longicauda var. longicauda

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium parviflorum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia densiflora

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia pillansii

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Mammals

Myotis tricolor

VESPERTILIONIDAE

Temminck's Hairy Bat

Near Threatened

 

Reptiles

None

Amphibians

Pyxicephalus adspersus

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Giant Bull Frog

NT

 

Invertebrates

Aslauga australis (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Southern Purple

Data Deficient

Yes

Chrysoritis lyncurium (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Tsomo River Opal

Vulnerable

Yes

Chrysoritis penningtoni (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Pennington's Opal

Vulnerable

Yes

Fish

Clarias gariepinus

CLARIIDAE

NEMBA (NL)

 

The plant and animal species of special concern listed above require permits if any individuals are to be removed, translocated or pruned according to the relevant legislation including the National Forests Act and the Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance as well as Threatened and Protected Species (T.o.P.S.)

 

2.5.17    Social and economic environment

The Borrow Pits will be utilised for routine maintenance of gravel roads in the area.  These roads connect the villages and urban areas, thus if they are not maintained there will be a negative impact on the people, their health (safety) and their livelihoods.  Furthermore vehicular ‘wear and tear’ results in higher living costs. Formalisation of the Borrow Pits will allow for regular routine maintenance of the roads that will benefit not only local communities and residents but also all road users.

 

No people will be directly affected by the proposed mining of Borrow Pits, but there may be a temporary noise and dust increase on nearby residents.  Potential Impacts will be assessed on an individual Borrow Pit basis in the following sections.

 

2.5.18    Health and Safety

There are certain risks posed to human health and safety via exposure to high noise and dust levels, as well as steep and/or unstable faces formed during mining activities.  Pools of standing water can also pose a risk to livestock and people in rural areas.  Community health and safety risks should be controlled through the implementation of a Health and Safety Management Plan to be implemented by the Contractor.  Existing unsafe excavations (with vertical faces) and deep excavations where standing water can accumulate should be “made safe” on closure using unused and stockpiled overburden and topsoil.

 

2.6         List of Maps

Figure 1: Map indicating locality of borrow pits with major roads, towns, etc.

Figure 2: Geology Map.

Figure 3: Rivers and Wetlands

Figure 4: Positioning of the Borrow Pits relative to the VEGMAP vegetation types (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

Figure 5: Critical Biodiversity Areas, as per Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP, 2007).

Figure 6: Land Use – excluding Natural Vegetation (SANBI Landcover, 2006).

 




3         Individual Borrow Pit Assessments

This section of the report addresses REGULATION 52 (2) and REGULATION 52 (2) (b) of the MPRDA for each borrow pit.  An overall summary of the impacts and general mitigation measures is provided in the next section.

·         REGULATION 52 (2): Description of the environment likely to be affected by the proposed prospecting or mining operation

a)      The environment on site relative to the environment in the surrounding area.

b)      The specific environmental features on the site applied for which may require protection, remediation, management or avoidance.

c)       Map showing the spatial locality of all environmental, cultural/heritage and current land use features identified on site.

d)      Confirmation that the description of the environment has been compiled with the participation of the community, the landowner and interested and affected parties,

 

Each Borrow Pit description is comprised of the following:

  1. Description of the Borrow Pit in a table
  2. Contact Information
  3. Location Details
  4. Physical Details
  5. Samples Collected and Tests Performed
  6. Biophysical Environment Description
  7. Social Environment Description
  8. Issues raised by Interested and Affected Parties: Notification letters were sent to IAP’s. Correspondence letters from landowner, municipal manager, Ward councilors and other I&AP’s are included in Appendix B and any issues raised are summarised in the table.
  9. Photographic Record of the Borrow Pit
  10. Locality Plan and Aerial Photo of the Borrow Pit showing the surrounding area
  11. Mining Plan
  12. Mining Plan Details and Summary of important Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

 

Photo 1 & 2: Existing Mining Surface

Photo 3 & 4: Current Mined area

Photo 5 & 6: Expansion area

Photo 7 & 8: Sensitive areas


 

3.1        Borrow Pit DR08090/19.7

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Municipal and Ward details

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

 

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

 

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

 

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

 

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08090/19.7

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 






3.2        Borrow Pit DR08102/7.9

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access

 

Fencing

 

Borrow Pit Extent

 

Proposed Mining Direction

 

Material Availability

 

Material Type

 

Data Collection

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Mudstone

 

Sandstone

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

  Borrow Pit DR08102/7.9

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 



3.3       




3.4        Borrow Pit DR08425/13.3

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Mudstone

 

Sandstone

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage :

 

Palaeontology:

 

Archaeology:

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08425/13.3

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined:

 

Projected volume:

 

Access road:

 

 







3.5        Borrow Pit DR08129/11.2

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Dolerite

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08129/11.2

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 






3.6        Borrow Pit DR08129/15.3

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Dolerite

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08129/15.3

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 






3.7        Borrow Pit DR08109/4.5

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Mudstone

 

 Sandstone

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08109/4.5

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined:

 

Projected volume:

 

Access road:

 

 






3.8        Borrow Pit DR08106/0.1

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Dolerite

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08106/0.1

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 



3.9       




3.10    Borrow Pit DR08104/6.9

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Mudstone

 

Sandstone

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08104/6.9

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 



3.11   



 

3.12    Borrow Pit DR08099/7.0

Contact Information

Contact

Name

Contact Number

Landowner

 

 

Ward Councillor

 

 

Municipal Manager

 

 

Location Details

GPS Position:       

 

Topography:

 

Distance from Road:

 

Physical Details

Access:  

 

Fencing:

 

Borrow Pit Extent:

 

Proposed Mining Direction:

 

Material Availability:          

 

Material Type:     

 

Data Collection:   

 

Sample Collection and Tests Performed

Dolerite

 

Sandstone

 

Biophysical Environmental Description

Vegetation and Status

 

Present Land Use

 

CBA

 

Land Use Type

 

Agricultural features

 

Alien invasive species

 

Potential Faunal Habitat:

 

Natural Drainage and Erosion

 

Rivers and Drainage Lines

 

Wetlands

 

Quaternary Catchment

 

Social Environment Description

Heritage

 

Palaeontology

 

Archaeology

 

Buildings and Structures

 

Issus raised by I & AP’s

 

 


 

Borrow Pit DR08099/7.0

Impact Assessment Mitigation

Issue

Description

Recommendation

Visual Exposure:

 

 

Natural Drainage and wetlands:

 

 

Buildings:

 

 

Overhead Services:

 

 

Underground Services:               

 

 

Fences: 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

Fauna

 

 

Agricultural features

 

 

Grazing

 

 

Mining Plan Details

Proposed mining direction:

 

Area to be mined

 

Projected volume

 

Access road

 

 







4         Summary of the potential impacts, significance assessment and the proposed mitigation measures

·         REGULATION 52 (2) (b): Assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed mining operation on the environment, socio- economic conditions and cultural heritage.

a)      Description of the proposed mining operation.

                                             i.            The main activities (e.g. access roads, topsoil storage sites and any other basic prospecting design features )

                                           ii.            Plan of the main activities with dimensions

                                          iii.            Description of construction, operational, and decommissioning phases.

                                         iv.            Listed activities (in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations)

 

4.1         Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts

4.1.1        Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts

The following methodology is to be applied in the specialist studies for the assessment of potential impacts.

Criteria

Explanation

Nature of impact

Review the type of effect that a proposed activity will have on the environment and should include “what will be affected and how?”

Extent

Indicate whether the impact will be:

·         (S) local and limited to the immediate area of development (the site);

·         (L) limited to within 5 km of the development; or

·         (R) whether the impact may be realized regionally, nationally or even internationally.

Duration

Review the lifetime of the impact, as being:

·         (V) very short term (0 - 1 years),

·         (S) short term (1 - 5 years),

·         (M) medium (5 - 15 years),

·         (L) long term (>15 years but where the impacts will cease after the operation of the site), or

·         (P) permanent.

Intensity

Establish whether the impact is destructive or innocuous and should be described as either:

·         (L) low (where no environmental functions and processes are affected)

·         (M) medium (where the environment continues to function but in a modified manner) or

·         (H) high (where environmental functions and processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease).

Probability

Consider the likelihood of the impact occurring and should be described as:

·         (I) improbable (low likelihood)

·         (P) probable (distinct possibility)

·         (H) highly probable (most likely) or

·         (D) definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures).

Status of the impact

Description as to whether the impact will be positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or neutral.

Degree of confidence

The degree of confidence in the predictions, based on the availability of information and specialist knowledge. This should be assessed as high, medium or low.

Significance

·         (L) Low: Where the impact will not have an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in the project design

·         (M) Medium: Where it could have an influence on the environment which will require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation;

·         (H) High: Where it could have a ‘no-go’ implication for the project unless mitigation or re-design is practically achievable.

 

Significance Rating

 

Duration

Permanent

Long term

Medium term

Short term

Very short term

 

High Intensity

Extent

National

High

High

High

High

Medium

Regional

High

High

High

High

Medium

Local

High

High

Medium

Medium

Medium

Site specific

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

 

Medium Intensity

Extent

National

High

High

High

Medium

Medium

Regional

High

High

High

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Site specific

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Low

 

Low Intensity

Extent

National

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Regional

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

Medium

Medium

Medium

Low

Site specific

Medium

Medium

Medium

Low

Low

 

Furthermore, the following must be considered:

1.       Impacts should be described both before and after the proposed mitigation and management measures have been implemented.

2.       All impacts should be evaluated for both the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the project, where relevant. 

3.       The impact evaluation should take into consideration the cumulative effects associated with this and other facilities which are either developed or in the process of being developed in the region, if relevant.

4.       Management actions: Where negative impacts are identified, specialists must specify practical mitigation objectives (i.e. ways of avoiding or reducing negative impacts). Where no mitigation is feasible, this should be stated and the reasons given. Where positive impacts are identified, management actions to enhance the benefit must also be recommended.

5.       Monitoring: Specialists should recommend monitoring requirements to assess the effectiveness of mitigation actions, indicating what actions are required, by whom, and the timing and frequency thereof.

 

4.2        Identification of potential impacts

4.2.1         Possible impacts on biodiversity during mining construction and operations

Mining construction and operations can result in a range of negative impacts on terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems if not properly managed.  Table 6 describes impacts that may potentially occur in the individual Borrow Pits (as per DMR guidelines) as well indicating the relevant EMP section in Appendix C.  The predicted significance of these are summarised inTable 7, where SB = Significance BEFORE mitigation and SA = Significance AFTER mitigation.  No significant ancillary linear infrastructure, such as roads, conveyors, power lines, pipelines and railways, which can impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services are expected other than minor access roads.

 

4.2.2        List of actions, activities, or processes that have sufficiently significant impacts to require mitigation

Refer to Table 6, No specific potential impacts on communities were identified, where issues may have been present, it has been addressed through the selection of Borrow Pits, or avoidance via the mine area indicated in the Mine Plans.

and EMP guidelines Section.

4.2.3        Appropriate technical or management options

Where issues of significant importance have been identified during the planning phase, appropriate measures have been implemented in the mine planning phase to accommodate them.  In addition, during a site selection and feasibility phase, any Borrow Pits deemed to have any biophysical or social features that could not be successfully mitigated or avoided were not selected for this permitting process. 

 

4.2.4        Review the significance of the identified impacts

Whilst the residual Impact after the implementation of mitigation measures will be Low to Negligible on most Borrow Pits, the following Borrow Pits and Activities are deemed to have a Moderate or higher residual significance after implementation of the EMP and the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures:

 

Table 6: List of potential Impacts relating to the expansion of Borrow Pits

Impact

Impact Description

Relevant EMP Section describing Mitigation Measures (clickable link)

Topography

Alteration of topography through excavation of borrow pits and material removal

Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement

Erosion

Increased erosion risk resulting from removal of vegetation and stockpiling of topsoil

Drainage and Erosion Control

Geology

Permanent alteration of Geology through the removal of material from BP’s

 

Soils

Potential loss of soil from BP’s due to removal of topsoil and stockpiling for rehabilitation

Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement

Surface Water

Potential increased sediment load in runoff water from borrow pits and road works (Directly into Wetlands or Rivers)

Drainage and Erosion Control

Groundwater

Potential impacts on groundwater as a result of seep contamination with chemicals as well as fuels and lubricants required for operation of plant machinery

Waste Management and Ablution Facilities

Air quality/Dust

Nuisance impacts of dust generated from excavating, blasting, crushing, stockpiling and road works on traffic on the roads and nearby residents.

Dust

Vegetation

Damage to or clearing of natural habitat, fencing off of areas and/or increased vehicular traffic, leading to loss of ecological communities, habitat for species, changes to ecosystem services, and fragmentation or isolation of habitats.

Biodiversity Requirements

Fire

Increased risk of fire may interfere with natural fire regimes and adversely affect biodiversity.

Biodiversity Requirements

Alien species

Introduction or spread of alien invasive species, feral fauna (including agricultural and commercial exotic species) and diseases of native flora and fauna.

Biodiversity Requirements

Habitat

Habitat fragmentation, the disruption of migratory routes of faunal species or ecological corridors enabling ecological or evolutionary processes, collisions and road kills, dust generation and fallout.

Biodiversity Requirements

Fauna

Potential small scale loss of fauna, particularly small animals confined to borrow pit, resulting from habitat loss.  It is not anticipated that endangered or rare species will be present.

Biodiversity Requirements

Land capability/Agriculture

No permanent significant impact on land capability is expected.

Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement

Grazing

Loss of grazing to Landowner as a result of Borrow Pit

Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement

Fences

Significant changes to landowners fencing as a result of BP expansion

Fencing

Noise

Noise impacts during blasting and crushing activities are expected on nearby residents.

Noise

Over/Under Services

Blasting activities at the borrow pits may affect the nearby houses and infrastructure.

Exiting Services

Visual Impact

An existing visual impact occurs at all the borrow pits as they are existing sites which have not been properly rehabilitated previously.  After rehabilitation, the proposed activities may substantially improve the visual impact on the environment.

Visual Impacts Amelioration

Waste management

Pollution of construction and domestic waste as well as waste water could lead to other visual impacts and loss of natural habitat.

Waste Disposal

Socio-Economic Impacts

Formalisation of the borrow pits would allow for regular routine maintenance of the roads that will benefit local communities and residents and all road users along the route.

 

Archaeology

(Depends on HIA)

Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites

Heritage

(Depends on HIA)

Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites

Palaeontology

(Depends on PIA)

Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites

Buildings and Structures

Impacts to Buildings  and Structures in close proximity to the site

Demarcation the Mining Area

 

4.2.5        Listed activities (in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations)

Table 8 provides a list of activities associated with borrow pit mining that may be applicable for specific borrow pits.

 

4.2.6        Potential cumulative impacts

No cumulative impacts are expected as a result of the expansion of the Borrow Pits, due to the limited disturbance area.

 

4.2.7        Potential impact on heritage resources

No specific potential impacts on heritage resources were identified, where issues may have been present, it has been addressed through the selection of Borrow Pits, or avoidance via the mine area indicated in the Mine Plans.

 

4.2.8         Potential impacts on communities, individuals or competing land uses in close proximity.

No specific potential impacts on communities were identified, where issues may have been present, it has been addressed through the selection of Borrow Pits, or avoidance via the mine area indicated in the Mine Plans.

 

4.2.9        Confirmation that the list of potential impacts has been compiled with the participation of the landowner and interested and affected parties

Refer to Appendix B for public participation notices and correspondence from IAP’s.

 

4.2.10    Confirmation of specialist report appended

No separate specialist reports are included.

 


Table 7: Summary indicating significance of potential impacts relating to mining activities (SB = Significance BEFORE Mitigation; SA = Significance AFTER Mitigation)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Topography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Erosion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soils

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surface Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Groundwater

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air quality/Dust

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alien species

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Habitat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fauna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land capability/Agriculture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grazing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over/Under Services

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visual Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Waste management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Socio-Economic Impacts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Archaeology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heritage

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Palaeontology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buildings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OVERALL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

Table 8: Listed Activities associated with Borrow Pits

Listed Activity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LN1: 23

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LN1: 24

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LN3: 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LN3: 13

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LN3: 14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land transformation for mining purposes (23, 24 of LN1; 15 of LN2)

(LN1: 23) The transformation of undeveloped, vacant or derelict land to –

(i) residential, retail, commercial, recreational, industrial or institutional use, inside an urban area, and where the total area to be transformed is 5 hectares or more, but less than 20 hectares, or

(ii) residential, retail, commercial, recreational, industrial or institutional use, outside an urban area and where the total area to be transformed is bigger than 1 hectare but less than 20 hectares; -

(LN1: 24) The transformation of land bigger than 1000 square metres in size, to residential, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional use, where, at the time of the coming into effect of this Schedule such land was zoned open space, conservation or had an equivalent zoning.

Physical alteration of undeveloped, vacant or derelict land for residential, retail, commercial, recreational, industrial or institutional use where the total area to be transformed is 20 hectares or more;

Land clearance for mining purposes and/or ancillary activities (12, 13 and 14 of LN3)

(LN3: 12) The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of vegetation where 75% or more of the vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation.

Within any critically endangered or endangered ecosystem listed in terms of section 52 of the NEMBA or prior to the publication of such a list, within an area that has been identified as critically endangered in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004;

(b) Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans;

(LN3: 13) The clearance of an area of 1 hectare or more of vegetation where 75% or more of the vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation.

Critical biodiversity areas and ecological support areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority.

National Protected Area Expansion Strategy Focus areas.

Outside urban areas, the following:

(aa) A protected area identified in terms of NEMPAA, excluding conservancies;

(bb) National Protected Area Expansion Strategy Focus areas;

(cc) Sensitive areas as identified in an environmental management framework as contemplated in chapter 5 of the Act and as adopted by the competent authority;

(dd) Sites or areas identified in terms of an International Convention;

(ee) Core areas in biosphere reserves;

(ff) Areas within 10 kilometres from national parks or world heritage sites or 5 kilometres from any other protected area identified in terms of NEMPAA or from the core area of a biosphere reserve;

(gg) Areas seawards of the development setback line or within 1 kilometre from the high-water mark of the sea if no such development setback line is determined.

iii. In urban areas, the following:

(aa) Areas zoned for use as public open space;

(bb) Areas designated for conservation use in Spatial Development Frameworks adopted by the competent authority or zoned for a conservation purpose;

(cc) Areas seawards of the development setback line;

(dd) Areas on the watercourse side of the development setback line or within 100 metres from the edge of a watercourse where no mentioned in Listing Notice 1.

(LN3: 14)  The clearance of an area of 5 hectares or more of vegetation where 75% or more of the vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation

All areas outside urban areas

 


5         Closure and environmental objectives

The decommissioning phase and closure of the quarry will involve removal of all debris and rehabilitation of areas not rehabilitated during the operational phases of the project.  This will comprise the scarification of compacted areas, reshaping of areas, topsoiling and regenerating all prepared surfaces.  The crusher and screening plants will be dissembled and all other infrastructural development such as haulage roads and stock pile areas will be rehabilitated.

 

Mine closure upon completion of the mining operation needs to be conducted in accordance to the objectives outlined in this report.  The recommendations outlined in this report regarding precision blasting of quarry sides, topsoil replacement and re-vegetation all need to be complied with before mine closure can be considered.

 

The stages for rehabilitation, which need to be adhered to in order to meet the closure objectives, are as follows:

·         Over the lifespan of the borrow pit, rehabilitation should commence initially in areas that are no longer being mined.

·         If mining is expanded into the proposed extension, rehabilitation is the adjacent quarry should be commenced at least twelve months before commencement of that phase.

·         The same strategy will be applied to future mining phases during the quarries lifespan.

·         Upon completion of the final mining phase, final quarry rehabilitation (which will involve the rehabilitation of the areas currently being mined out and the storage and processing areas) will be completed within 12 months of operation closure.

·         The proposed closure costs will be absorbed throughout the operation life of the quarry, as rehabilitation towards final closure objectives will be conducted continuously during mining operations.

 

5.1         Rehabilitation plan

Refer to Mine Plans and EMP for the detailed Rehabilitation Plan.

 

5.2         Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment

The overall environmental Objective for mine closure is as follows:

 

Specific environmental goals include:

 

5.3         Confirmation of consultation

No specific comments regarding closure requirements were received from the landowner(s), interested and affected parties or surrounding communities.  During establishment, the contractor should liaise with the landowner and/or affected community via the appointed Community Liaison Officer (CLO) or Social Facilitator, appointed by the Department of Roads and Public Works in order to identify any specific requirements.


6         Monitoring and Performance

In order to ensure that this EMP is effectively implemented, it is important that regular external audits of the EMP are conducted. 

 

The Department of Roads and Public Works must appoint an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) in order to oversee compliance with the EMP by undertaking monthly site inspections, quarterly audits and post construction/operation site visits.  The audits shall aim at addressing environmental issues identified on site and to provide recommendations through the audit reports.  Furthermore the Contractor must employ a responsible and suitably qualified person to oversee the day to day environmental requirements in consultation with the appointed resident engineer.

 

Audit Reports must be provided to the Department of Roads and Public Works, the project Manager/Engineer and the Department of Mineral Resources.  The table below provides a template for the environmental audit process.

 


Requirements/ Conditions/Mitigation Measures

Responsibility

C

Comment

Environmental Authorization

Notification of DEA&DP for any project changes/ deviations

DRPW

 

 

Notification of DEA &DP on ECO appointment

DRPW

 

 

Notification of DEA&DP on the commencement of the project

 

 

Notification of Interested and Affected Parties in the vicinity of construction of commencement date and completion

Contractor

 

Copy of the Environmental Authorisation kept on site

 

Copy of the Construction EMP kept on site.

 

ECO’s monitoring and audit reports to be kept on site and be available for inspection by any relevant and competent authority

 

An environmental audit report must be submitted to DEA&DP upon completion of the construction and rehabilitation activities

 

 

Environmental Agreement between DRPW and Contractor

DRPW & Contractor

 

 

Filing System for Environmental Documentation (Method Statements)

Construction camp location and layout

Contractor to submit a method statement of how he will handle the following

 

 

Site Clearing

 

Handling of Hazardous Substances

 

Solid Waste Management

 

Handling of Wastewater

 

Erosion and Sediment Control

 

Fire Preventative Measures

 

Cement and Concrete Batching

 

Vegetation and Rehabilitation

 

Environmental Permitting Requirements

National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) – River crossing

Contractor

 

 

National Water (No. 36 of 1998) – Water abstraction

 

 

Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. 28 of 2002) – Borrow pits

 

 

National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999)

 

 

National Environmental Management: Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008) – Waste Management

 

 

Administration

Organogram of contractor’s management structure available

Contractor

 

 

Has a ELO been appointed

 

Is the ELO permanently on site

 

Is the ELO submitting reports to the resident engineer on a monthly basis

 

Environmental Awareness Training

Is the ELO appropriately trained to carry out training and mentoring on environmental management?

Contractor

 

 

Has Environmental Awareness Training (EAT) been carried out?

 

 

Are records of EAT available

 

 

Camp Depot

Perimeter fencing erected and maintained

Contractor

 

 

Water available for human consumption at the site office and working areas points on site

 

Provision of appropriate ablution facilities

 

Housing of labour force

 

Storage of equipment and material at designated areas

 

Maintenance & Refuelling

Dip trays for emergency repairs should be provided

Contractor

 

 

Suitable containers should be provided for collecting waste oil

 

 

Vehicle servicing areas should be demarcated

 

 

Leaking vehicles should be repaired immediately

 

 

Refuelling areas should be designated

 

 

Refuelling areas should be protected against pollution or surfaced

 

 

Wastewater collection measures should be in place at vehicle washing areas

 

 

Environmental management of Construction Activities

Work restricted to 07h00 – 17h00 on weekdays

Contractor

 

 

Work restricted to 07h00 – 14h00 on Saturdays

 

 

Work only allowed after hours in exceptional circumstances

 

 

Notifications of interruption of service due to construction

 

 

Inform nearby I&APs of noisy after hours work

 

 

Inform landowners of any planned damage to properties

 

 

Maintenance of photographic record of damage

 

 

Compensation for damage to property

Demarcation of no-go areas and proper signage

 

 

Designate smoking areas where smoking can occur in a controlled environment

 

 

Prevent casual access to the construction site

 

 

Contractor’s employees to be clearly identifiable

 

 

Blasting to comply with relevant regulations

 

 

No unemployed labour seekers to gather on site

 

 

Inform employees of site specific environmental risks

 

 

Cover material loads in transit

 

 

Safety & Security

Road users and pedestrians should be informed of alternative routes

Contractor

 

 

General compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993)

 

 

Protection of workers during thunderstorms

 

 

Periodic checking of excavations

 

 

Appropriate traffic signs displayed

 

 

Cement & Concrete Batching Plant

Cement mixed in allocated areas

 

 

 

Cleaning of cement mixing trays be done on proper cleaning trays

Contractor

 

 

Proper storage of cement bags before disposal

 

 

Excess concrete should be disposed of at a licensed landfill site

 

 

Cement laden runoff from concrete stockpile should be controlled

 

 

Storage of Hazardous Substances

Suitable storage of hazardous substances

Contractor

 

 

Hazard signs indicating the hazardous substance at storage site

 

 

Petroleum tanks contained in a bund wall, which is more than 10% its capacity

 

 

Material and safety data sheets should be readily available for hazardous substances

 

 

Run-off from storage site should be contained

 

 

Hazardous Waste

Proper collection and disposal of contaminated soils at approved facilities/site

Contractor

 

 

Proper storage of used oils before disposal

 

 

Appropriate disposal of hazardous waste at approved landfill sites

 

 

Unused or rejected bituminous products should be returned to the supplier not disposed or buried in a landfill site.

 

 

Waste disposal tracking records

 

 

Wastewater

Oil separation/settlement system should be placed for water run-off from washing areas, workshops, fuel depots to pass through

Contractor

 

 

 

 

Wastewater shouldn’t be disposed into municipal stormwater system

 

 

Conservancy tanks should be used for wastewater collection

 

 

Private Property Access and Security

Notify landowners prior to undertaking construction work

Contractor

 

 

Access to adjacent private properties prohibited except under official business

 

 

Rehabilitation

Suitable rehabilitation of cut and fill slopes

Contractor

 

 

Topsoil replacement

All construction residue removed after construction

All structures should be removed

Contaminated soil should be removed and properly disposed

Scarify areas compacted by vehicle movements

Rehabilitation plan should be in place

Borrow pits reshaped to even surfaces and closed off

Compliance and Penalties

Non-compliance directive been issued to the contractor

ECO

 

Non-compliance directive been recorded in a dedicated register and reported in monthly reports and at monthly site meetings

ELO

 

Has a penalty for non-compliance been implemented by engineer?

RE/ELO

 


7         Public Participation

The public participation process for utilisation of Borrow Pits identified in this report was held in conjunction with the public participation process for all the identified road sections and their relevant borrow pits.

 

7.1         Identification of interested and affected parties

7.1.1        Details of the engagement process

Public participation was initiated by the placement of a legal notice (English and Xhosa) in The Herald on (25 October 2014).  Refer to adverts and correspondence is included in Appendix B.

 

Table 9: List of Municipal Managers and Ward Councillors.

Person Name

Position

LMA

Tel. No.

Sending method

Date sent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 10: List of Regional Interested and Affected Parties.

Name

Organisation

Position

E-mail

Postal address1

Sending method

Date sent

Ms Deidré Watkins

DMR

deidre.watkins@dmr.gov.za

Department of Mineral Resources Private Bag X6076 Port Elizabeth 6000

email

 

Jimmy Calder

WESSA

Regional WESSA

jimjan@iafrica.com

PO Box 2909, Beacon Bay, 5205

email

 

Phillip Wilkinson

WESSA

Regional WESSA

phillip@wessabk.co.za

PO Box 2909, Beacon Bay, 5205

email

 

Ms. Mariagrazia Gamlimberti

SAHRA

APM Impact Assessor

mgalimberti@sahra.org.za

South African Heritage Resources Agency, PO Box 4637, Cape Town 8000

email

 

Sello Mokhanya

Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority

Regional Heritage

info@ecphra.org.za

ECPHRA, Corner Scholl and Amalinda Drive
East London, 5247

email

 

Andrew Lucas

Dept. of Water Affairs- EC

Regional Water Affairs

lucasa@dwaf.gov.za

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry PO Box 7019, EL, 5200

email

 

 

ANDM

Municipal Manager

 

 

 

 

 

ANDM

Director: Eng.

 

 

email

 

 

ANDM

Roads Dept.

 

 

email

 

 

ANDM

Director: Health & Community Services

 

 

email

 

 

DEDEAT

Regional Director (ANDM)

 

 

email

 

 

DR&PW

EPWP Regional Manager

 

 

email

 

 

DEDEAT

Regional Director (ANDM)

 

 

email

 

 

DEDAET

Regional Manager

 

 

email

 

 

 

Deputy Director: Alfred Nzo (Land Reform)

MEMolokoane@ruraldevelopment.gov.za

 

email

 

 

 

Deputy Director: Alfred Nzo (REID)

MWNGANGANI@ruraldevelopment.gov.za

 

email

 

 

No additional I&AP’s from the general public registered who required information to be sent in response to the notifications and advertisements at this stage.

 

7.1.2        Description of the information provided to the community, landowners, and interested and affected parties

 

7.1.3        List of which parties identified in 7.1 above that were in fact consulted, and which were not consulted

 

7.1.4        List of views raised by consulted parties regarding the existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment

 

7.1.5        List of views raised by consulted parties on how their existing cultural, socio-economic or biophysical environment potentially will be impacted on by the proposed prospecting or mining operation.

 

7.1.6        Other concerns raised by the aforesaid parties

 

7.1.7        Confirmation that minutes and records of the consultations are appended

 

 

7.2         The manner in which the issues raised were addressed

 


8         Environmental awareness plan

8.1         Employee communication process

The on-site manager is responsible for the training of all staff. Regular training sessions are recommended and shall include basic environmental awareness. It is important that training registers are kept as proof for auditing purposes.

 

8.2         Description of solutions to risks

The following environmental training should be included:

·         The importance of conformance with all environmental policies.

·         Environmental impacts of the proposed activities (actual or potential).

·         Improved personal performance and the environmental benefits thereof.

·         Roles and responsibilities of achieving conformance with environmental policy and procedures.

·         Associated procedures and emergency preparedness and response requirements.

·         Potential consequences of departure from specified operating procedures.

·         Mitigation measures required to be implemented when carrying out their work activities.

 

8.3         Environmental awareness training

Before the commencement of any work on site, the Contractor's site management staff shall attend an environmental awareness training session, of at least one-hour duration, presented by the ECO and RE. The Contractor shall liaise with the ECO prior to the commencement date to fix a date and venue for the training session. The Contractor shall provide a suitable venue with facilities, and ensure that the specified employees attend the training session.

The information presented at the course shall be communicated by the Contractor to the rest of his employees on the site, to any new employees coming onto site after the initial training course and to his/her suppliers. The presentation shall be conducted, as far as is possible, in the employees’ language of choice. As a minimum, training shall include:

        Explanation of the importance of complying with the EMP;

        Discussion of the potential environmental impacts of construction activities;

        Explanation of the management structure of individuals responsible for matters pertaining to the EMP;

        Explanation of the manner in which environmental risks and impacts must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution and the degradation of the environment;

        Employees’ roles and responsibilities, including emergency preparedness;

        Explanation of the mitigation measures that must be implemented when carrying out their activities;

        Explanation of the specifics of the EMP; and

        Explanation of the Environmental DO’s and DON’T’s (below).

 


DO’S AND DON’T’S

MOETS EN MOENIES

EMAZENZIWE NE MAZINGENZIWA

Workers & equipment must stay inside the site boundaries at all times

Werkers en gereedskap moet ten alle tye binne die terreingrense bly

Abasebenzi nezixhobo abazisebenzisayo mabanaphumi nazo ngaphaya kwesayiti

Do not swim in or drink from streams

Moenie van strome drink of daarin swem nie

Sukuqubha okanye usele amanzi omlambo

Do not throw oil, petrol, diesel, concrete or rubbish in the stream

Moenie olie, petrol, diesel, sement of Rommel in strome gooi nie

Sukugalela ioil, petrol, diesel, concrete okanye inkukuma emlanjeni

Do not work in the stream without direct instruction

Moenie in strome werk sonder direkte instruksie nie.

Sukonakalisa iindonga (zomlambo) okanye izintyalo

Do not damage the banks or vegetation of the stream

Moenie stroomoewers en plantgroei beskadig nie.

Protect animals on the site

Beskerm diere op die konstruksieterrein

Khusela izilwanyana ezilapho esayitini

Ask your supervisor or Contractor’s Manager to remove animals found on site

Vra u toesighouer of Kontrakbestuurder om diere van die terrein verwyder

Xelela isupervisor ukuba zomkiswe ezozilwanyana

Do not damage or cut down any trees or plants without permission

Moenie enige plante of bome beskadig of afsny sonder toestemming nie

Ungonakalisi okanye ugawule imithi ngaphandle kwemvume

Do not pick flowers

Moenie blomme pluk nie

Sukwemba izityalo

Put cigarette butts in a rubbish

Gooi sigaretstompies in ‘n asblik

Xa ugqibile ukutshayo galela emgqomeni (izitompi zecuba)

Do not smoke near gas, paints or petrol

Moenie rook naby gas, verf of petrol nie

Sukubasa umlilo ngaphandle kwemvume

Do not light any fires without permission

Moenie sonder toestemming enige vure maak nie

Zazi izicima mlilo apho zikhoyo

Know the positions of firefighting equipment

Weet waar brandbestrydingstoerusting gestoor word

Sukutshisa inkunkuma naaphandle kwemvume

Report all fires

Meld alle vure onmiddelik aan

Do not burn rubbish/vegetation without permission

Moenie Rommel verbrand sonder toestemming nie

Work with petrol, oil & diesel in marked areas

Werk slegs in gemerkte areas met petrol, olie & diesel

Sebenzisa ipetrol, oil ne diesel endaweni yayo

Report any petrol, oil & diesel leaks or spills

Meld alle petrol, oile en diesel lekkasies aan

Faka isitya sokukhongozela phansi kwemashini

Use a drip tray under vehicles & machinery

Gebruik ‘n drupbak onder voertuie en mosjinerie

Ungagaeli oil emlanjeni

Empty drip trays after rain & throw away where instructed

Maak drupbakke leeg na reen, maar nie in riviere nie

Zama ungenzi uthuli fefa ngamanzi emhlabeni

Try to avoid producing dust – wet dry ground & soil

Probeer on nie stof te maak nie - Maak droe grond nat met water

Do not make loud noises around the site, especially near schools and homes

Moenie harde geluide maak op die terrain nie, veral naby skole en huise

Sukwena ingxolo eshayitini ngakumbi kufuphi nesikolo nezi ndlu

Report or repair noisy vehicles

Meld reserige voertuie aan of herstel dit

Yazisa ulungise isithuthi esonakeleyo

Use the toilets provided

Gebruik die toilette wat voorsien is

Sebenzisa itoilet (izindlu  zangasese)

Report full or leaking toilets

Meld vol of lekkende toilette aan

Xela xa zizeleyo

Only eat in demarcated eating areas

Eet slegs in gemerkte gebiede

Tyela kwindawo eyenzelwe oko

Never eat near a river or stream

Moenie naby riviere of strome eet nie

Sukutyela kufuphi nomlambo

Put packaging & leftover food into rubbish bins

Gooi verpakking en orige kos in vullisblikke

Lahla emgqomeni yonke inkukuma

Do not litter – put all rubbish (especially cement bags) into the bins provided

Moenie vullis rondstrool nie – gooi alle vullis (veral sementsakke) in vullishouers

Sulahla inkukuma phantsi

Report full bins to your supervisor

Mel vol vullishouers aan by u toesighouer

Galela emgqomeni yonke inkukuma xela Xa izele imigqomo

The responsible person should empty bins regularly

Vullishouers moet gereeld leeggemaak word

Xela xa umgqomo uzele

Always keep to the speed limit

Moet nooit die spoedperk oorskry nie

Gcina isantya

Drivers – check & report leaks

Bestuurders- gaan voertuie na en meld lekkasies of rokerige voertuie aan

Umqhubi makayilungise inqwelo xa yonakele

Ensure loads are secure & do not spill

Maak seker dat alle vragte stewig is en nie mors nie

Qononondisa umthwalo ubotshiwe enqweleni

Know all emergency phone numbers

Maak seker dat u alle nood telefoonnommers ken

Zazi inombolo zengozi

Spot fines of between R20 and R2000

Boetes tussen R20 en R2000

Intlawulo ngokwaphula umthetho yi R20 – R2000

Removal from site

Verwydering vanaf die konstruksieterrein

Okanye ugxothwe emsebenzini

Construction may be stopped

Konstruksie mag gestop  word

Contract leyo imiswe

Report any breaks, floods, fires, leaks and injuries to your supervisor

Meld alle brekasies, vure, vloede, lekkasies en beserings aan by u toesighouer

Ripota wonke umanakalo ofana nokuqhekeza, isiphango umlilo, ukuvusa kwemashini nengozi kwi supervisor

Ask questions!

Vra Vrae!

Buza xa unombuzo


9         Financial provision

9.1         Plans for quantum calculation purposes

Refer to the Mine Plans provided in Section 3 of this report and Table 11 below for area of existing and expansion areas.

 

9.2         Alignment of rehabilitation with the closure objectives

Implementation of the Environmental Management Plan provided in conjunction with the approved Mine Plans will ensure that mine closure objectives are attained.

 

Due to the historical neglect of Borrow Pits, contractual provisions must be made by the DR&PW during future works to not only rehabilitate areas mined during that specific contract period, but also to allow for Contactors to initiate the re-shaping, landscaping and rehabilitation of areas that were historically abandoned.  It is suggested that a portion of the funds indicated in the Quantum calculation should be allocated to future contracts for this to be implemented.

 

9.3         Quantum calculations

Rehabilitation of the borrow pit upon mining completion will include the clearing up of access roads, mining infrastructure and the site office.  It should be noted at this stage that rehabilitation should be commenced immediately on sites that are no longer mined or to be mined in the following three years.

 

The Quantum of Financial Provision is calculated using the official Guideline Document for the Evaluation of the Quantum of Closure-Related Financial Provision Provided by a Mine (2005). These guidelines, provided by the DME, are used in all quantum calculations regarding borrow pit rehabilitation.

In terms of the above mentioned guideline, the borrow pits in this EMP are classified as class C mines (Table B.13 of the guidelines), derived from the material types present:

1.       Dolerite

2.       Basalt

3.       Mudstone

4.       Sandstone

 

Further the Sensitivity is determined from Table B.4 of the guidelines, taking the biophysical, social and economic features of the borrow pit into account. The table below shows the process of calculating the quantum rehabilitation provision for each borrow pit including the entire footprint of the quarry.

Table 11: Table indicating proposed mining area and quantum calculation.

Borrow Pit

Sensitivity (Table B4)

BP size (ha)

Rate per hectare (Table B.11)

Quantum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total:

 

 

 

 

R 1 171 966.00

 

9.4         Undertaking to provide financial provision

The required amount must be provided for by the DR&PW should the right be granted.


10    SECTION 39 (4) (a) (iii) of the Act: Capacity to rehabilitate and manage negative impacts on the environment

10.1    The annual amount required to manage and rehabilitate the environment

The amount indicated in the financial provision for each Borrow Pits must be allocated over the expected life-span of the individual Borrow Pits for rehabilitation to be achieved.

 

10.2    Confirmation that the stated amount correctly reflected in the Mining Work Programme as required

Signed letters for financial provision are included in Appendix A.


11    REGULATION 52 (2) (h) Undertaking to execute the Environmental Management Plan

Signed letters for undertaking are included in Appendix A.

 


12    Appendices

Appendix A: Environmental Management Plan

 

Appendix B: Detailed Impact Assessment scores

 

Appendix C: Potential Species list

 

Appendix D: References

 

Appendix E: Financial Provision and Undertaking Letters

 

Appendix F: Borrow Pit Geological Test Results

 

Appendix G: Interested and Affected Party Correspondence

 


 

12.1    Appendix A: Environmental Management Plan

This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) contains guidelines, operating procedures and rehabilitation control requirements, which will be binding on the holder of the mining right after approval of the EMP. 

 

The impacts identified and listed in Table 1 of the previous chapter will be managed / controlled as set out under mitigating measures and as detailed in this part for the more significant impacts during the operational phase.

 

12.1.1    General Requirements

·         The layout plans required for EMP approval are included in Section 3 above of this report. 

·         The mining area must be clearly demarcated by means of beacons at its corners.  These beacons must be firmly erected and maintained in their correct positions throughout the life of the mine.

·         The existing quarry scar should be shaped so that the working behaves as a localised sump to ensure run-off is contained after wet periods thereby reducing siltation of the drainage channel downstream.

·         Areas not earmarked for future mining activities should be rehabilitated with topsoil to encourage vegetation regrowth. The old workings and stockpiles should be levelled and excavation scars covered with topsoil to encourage grass regrowth and rehabilitation of land surface.

·         No disused stockpiles should occur / be placed outside of the mining footprint upon project completion.

·         Future mine faces need not be rehabilitated but should be sloped to prevent unnecessary erosion.

·         A stockpile should be left within the mine footprint for future patch gravelling and road repair programmes outside this contract.

·         Note that the stockpile should not be placed in the lowest part of the quarry where there is a possibility of it being partly or completely submerged by accumulating water.

·         It is recommended that the quarry be extended eastern and western directions to avoid moving too close to the housing settlement to the south of the quarry.

·         Working hours shall be deemed as normal working hours of 07:00 to 17:00, Mondays to Fridays, 07:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays, excluding public holidays.  These conditions can, however, be changed after written communication with the Regional Manager (DME).

 

Responsibility

The environment affected by the mining operations shall be rehabilitated by the holder, as far as is practicable, to its natural state or to a predetermined and agreed to standard or land use which conforms with the concept of sustainable development.  The affected environment shall be maintained in a stable condition that will not be detrimental to the safety and health of humans and animals and that will not pollute the environment or lead to the degradation thereof.

 

It is the responsibility of the holder of the mining right to ensure that the contractor on the site and the employees are capable of complying with all the statutory requirements, which must be met in order to mine, which includes the implementation of this EMP.

 

If operations are to be conducted in an area that has already been disturbed, the holder must reach specific agreement with the Regional Manager concerning the responsibilities imposed upon themselves pertaining to the rehabilitation of the area and the pollution control measures to be implemented.

 

The EMP recommendations contained in the Mitigation section of this report should be read and applied in conjunction with the measures mentioned throughout this report.

 

RE-GRAVELLING OF SECTIONS OF DR08090, DR08102, DR08425, DR08129, DR08109, DR08106, DR08104 and DR08099 IN THE UMZIMVUBU & MATATIELE LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES, ALFRED NZO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY: PROPOSED BORROW PIT DEVELOPMENT

Contract No. __________________

 

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMP)

 

MADE AND ENTERED BETWEEN:

The Eastern Cape Government: Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW)

Herein represented by:_____________________________________________

In his/her capacity as:______________________________________________

Duly authorized hereto

Hereafter referred to as “DRPW”

AND

Herein represented by: ______________________________________________

Duly authorized hereto

Hereafter referred to as the “THE CONTRACTOR”

The parties record that the Contractor shall bear the following obligations in terms of this Agreement:

1.                  Comply with all provisions of the EMP;

2.                   Comply with the requirements of the Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act No. 29 of 1996);

3.                   Bind any Sub-Contractors to comply with the EMP to which this agreement is appended;

4.                   Enforce compliance with the EMP by:

·         Appointing an Environmental Officer (or Site Agent); and

·         Ensuring that all staff is familiar with the EMP

5.                   Protect the environment of the site against environmental damage;

6.                   To make good any environmental damage; and

7.                   Failure to comply with the EMP may result in fines and reported non-compliance may result in the suspension of work or termination of the contract.


SIGNATORIES

Signed at _________________ on this ________ day of ____________________ 201____

For DRPW

Signature _______________________

 

Print Name _______________________

 (duly authorised)

As Witnesses:

  1. ______________________________________

 

  1. ______________________________________

 

Signed at ________________ on this ________day of _____________________ 201____

For CONTRACTOR

Signature _____________________

 

Print Name _____________________

(duly authorised)

As Witnesses:

  1. _______________________________________

 

  1. _______________________________________

 

Layout Plan

 

Demarcation the Mining Area

 

Fencing

 

Signage

 

Restrictions on Mining

 

Exiting Services

 

12.1.2    Biodiversity Requirements

Protection of Flora and Fauna

 

Fires

·         The Contractor must ensure that an emergency preparedness plan is in place in order to fight accidental fires or veld fires, should they occur. The adjacent land owners/users/managers should also be informed or otherwise involved.

·         Enclosed areas for food preparation should be provided and the Contractor must strictly prohibit the use of open fires for cooking and heating purposes.

·         The use of branches of trees and shrubs for fire-making must be strictly prohibited.

·         The Contractor should take all reasonable and active steps to avoid increasing the risk of fire through their activities on-site. No fires may be lit except at places approved by the EO.

·         The Contractor must ensure that the basic fire-fighting equipment is to the satisfaction of the Local Emergency Services.

·         The Contractor must supply all living quarters, site offices, kitchen areas, workshop areas, materials, stores and any other relevant areas with tested and approved fire-fighting equipment.

·         Fires and “hot work” must be restricted to demarcated areas.

·         A braai facility may be considered at the discretion of the Contractor and in consultation with the ECO. The area must be away from flammable stores. All events must be under management’s supervision and a fire extinguisher will be immediately available. “Low-smoke” fuels must be used (e.g., charcoal) and smoke control regulations, if applicable, must be considered.

·         The Contractor must take precautions when working with welding or grinding equipment near potential sources of combustion. Such precautions include having a suitable, tested and approved fire extinguisher immediately at hand and the use of welding curtains.

 

Soil Aspects

·         Sufficient topsoil must be stored for later use during decommissioning, particularly from outcrop areas.

·         Topsoil shall be removed from all areas where physical disturbance of the surface will occur.

·         All available topsoil shall be removed after consultation with the Botanist and horticulturalist prior to commencement of any operations.

·         The removed topsoil shall be stored on high ground within the mining footprint outside the 1:50 flood level within demarcated areas.

·         Topsoil shall be kept separate from overburden and shall not be used for building or maintenance of roads.

·         The stockpiled topsoil shall be protected from being blown away or being eroded.  The application of a suitable grass seed/runner mix will facilitate this and reduce the minimise weeds.

 

12.1.3    Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites

Archaeological Sites

Graves

If a grave site is uncovered or discovered before the commencement of work, all work in the immediate vicinity MUST be stopped and the Engineer informed. The following are to be adhered to upon discovery of graves during mining activities and the management of grave sites:

 

Paleontological Sites

 

12.1.4    Visual Aspects

 

12.1.5    Noise

 

12.1.6    Dust

 

12.1.7    Waste Management and Ablution Facilities

 

12.1.8    Infrastructural Requirements

Topsoil

·         Topsoil shall be removed from all areas where physical disturbance of the surface will occur.

·         All available topsoil shall be removed after consultation with the Regional Manager prior to commencement of any operations.

·         The removed topsoil shall be stored on high ground within the mining footprint outside the 1:50 flood level within demarcated areas (Appendix 1)

·         Topsoil shall be kept separate from overburden and shall not be used for building or maintenance of roads.

·         The stockpiled topsoil shall be protected from being blown away or being eroded.  The application of a suitable grass seed/runner mix will facilitate this and reduce the minimise weeds.

 

Access to the Site

Existing roads are adequate, but if future mining operations do require the construction of roads, the following must be adhered to:

·         The access to the mining area must be established in accordance with the authorisation from the various government departments (Department of Economic Affairs Environment and Tourism (DEAET), Department of Roads and Transport (DRT) and the Department of Minerals and Energy) and existing roads shall be used as far as practical.

·         Should a portion of the access road be newly constructed the following must be adhered to:

·         The erection of gates in a fence line and the open and closed status of gates shall be clarified in consultation with the landowner and maintained throughout the operational period.

·         No other routes shall be used by vehicles or personnel for the purpose of gaining access to the site.

·         Newly constructed access roads shall be adequately maintained so as to minimise dust, erosion or undue surface damage.

·         The liberation of dust into the surrounding environment shall be effectively controlled by the use of inter alia, water spraying and /or other dust-allaying agents.  The speed of haul trucks and other vehicles must be strictly controlled to avoid dangerous conditions, excessive dust or excessive deterioration of the road being used.

·         The access roads to the quarry sites must be strictly maintained during the operation process.  Sections of the access road that erodes during the mining process shall be suitably rehabilitated upon completion of the project.

 

Stormwater and Erosion Control

 

Site Office / Camp Sites

 

Vehicle Maintenance and Secured Storage Area

 

Maintenance of Vehicles and Equipment

 

Waste Disposal

 

Operating Procedures in the Mining Area

 

Excavations

Whenever any excavation is undertaken, the following procedures shall be adhered to:

·         The construction site will not be left in any way to deteriorate into an unacceptable state.

·         The excavated area must serve as a final depositing area for waste rock and overburden during the rehabilitation process.

 

Blasting Activities

5.       Blasting should be designed based on a risk level of 0.03.

6.       Maximum charge per delay must be restricted to 112 kg.

7.       Stemming of blast holes should be taken to a maximum to reduce the possibility of fly rock.

8.       Blasting mats / timber boarding or other means must be used for larger blasts to reduce safety and noise impacts.

9.       Vibrometers should adjacent to the water reservoir and the nearest dwelling to record peak particle velocities for each blast.

10.   Chemicals used in blasting must not be allowed to leach into groundwater.

11.   Neighboring communities and relevant authorities must be notified by the Contractor 24 hours prior to blasting.

12.   Controlled blasting techniques must be used during blasting work to minimize any damage to the final profile.

13.   Spillage of material from surface excavation, whether by blasting or other means, must be limited by the Contractor. All necessary precautions including covering the rock prior with sufficient loos material prior to blasting, if necessary, should be used to prevent the blasted material from being thrown.

 

 Processing Areas and Waste Piles

·         Processing areas and waste piles shall be established within a clearly demarcated area.

·         This area will include the footprint where commercial stockpiles will be positioned during the daily operation of the quarry.  Monitoring and supervision of the processing area will be controlled by the office, which will be situated adjacent to these workings.

 

Rehabilitation of Processing and Excavation Areas

 

Labour and Affected Parties

14.   Where possible, labourers from the nearby communities should be appointed.

15.   If applicable, suitable accommodation and security must be provided during construction and by the contractors for their workers.

16.   If applicable, the contractor in conjunction with the client should develop policies and procedures with regard to employee accommodation.

17.   Management commitments will be implemented by the contractor with respect to noise, dust, safety and blasting. The contractor shall furthermore ensure that their staff is trained regarding the Safety and Health Environmental (SHE) procedures that are to be followed on site. Penalty clauses for transgressions will also be considered in this regard.

18.   The contractor must ensure that the standard safety measures as stipulated in the Mine, Health and Safety Act are complied with.

19.   All employees and contractors must be briefed about appropriate road safety measures. Penalties and disciplinary actions will be imposed on employees and contractors for non-compliance with safety, environmental and social measures.

20.   Complaints should be dealt with timeously. This requires the joint formulation of compliance contract and grievance procedures and project-specific communication mechanisms (eg the keeping of complaints registers).

21.   Inadvertent access to dangerous construction areas must be prevented. Such areas must be strictly controlled using fencing, warning signs and access control.

22.   The contractor must implement strict access control measures wherever @outsider@ are accommodated in construction camps. Only authorized personnel are allowed at the camp site.

23.   Workers may only be housed in surrounding villages if the relevant authorities in the villages are satisfied with this arrangement.

 

12.1.9    Final Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation Objective

The overall objective of the rehabilitation plan is to minimize adverse environmental impacts associated with the quarrying activities whilst maximizing the future utilization of the property.  The idea, therefore, is to leave the mined out quartzitic sandstone quarry in a conditions that reduces many of the negative impacts associated with a mined out area.  Significant aspects to be borne in mind in this regard is visibility of the mining scar, revegetation of the mining footprint and stability and environmental risk in an old mine environment.  The depression and immediate area of the working must also be free of alien vegetation.  Alternative land uses such as agriculture, housing, waste disposal or alternative mining applications are unsuitable for a post-mining scenario. 

 

The proposed quarrying and rehabilitation procedures have been formulated to optimise the extraction of raw material while creating stable quarry sides that will not present an unreasonable safety risk once mine closure has been approved.  Mining operations will be conducted in stages corresponding to the creation of precision blasted quarry sides and a bench at the base of the working.  Each phase will be mined over a five year period and will be audited on an annual basis. 

 

Additional broad rehabilitation strategies / objectives include the following:

·         All infrastructure, equipment, plant and other items used during the mining period will be removed from the site (section 44 of the MPRDA).

·         Waste material of any description, including scrap, rubble and tyres, will be removed entirely from the mining area and disposed of at a recognised landfill facility.  It will not be permitted to be buried or burned on site.

·         Final rehabilitation shall be completed within a period specified by the Regional Manager.

 

General plans outlining the mining details indicate the proposed progressive development of the quarry is included in Appendix 1.

 

Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement

Topsoil and subsoil will be stripped separately from the area of each year of mining.  The topsoil and subsoil removed from the initial cut will be stockpiled separately and only used in rehabilitation work towards the end of the quarrying operation.  This is in contract to the gravel mining operation where rehabilitation and topsoil replacement was earmarked at the completion of each phase. 

 

Stripped overburden will be backfilled into the worked out areas and used to soften quarry slopes where needed.  Stripped topsoil will be spread over the re-profiled areas to an adequate depth to encourage plant regrowth.  The vegetative cover will be stripped with the thin topsoil layer to provide organic matter to the relayed material and to ensure that the seed store contained in the topsoil is not diminished.  Reseeding may be required should the stockpiles stand for too long and be considered barren from a seed bank point of view.  Stockpiles should ideally be stored for no longer than a year.

 

The topsoil and overburden will be keyed into the reprofiled surfaces to ensure that they are not eroded or washed away.  The topsoiled surface will be left fairly rough to enhance seedling establishment, reduce water run-off and increase filtration.  Latent impacts will be monitored by the Department of Minerals and Energy over a five year period after quarry operations cease before a final mine closure certificate can be granted by the DME.

 

Revegetation

All prepared surfaces will be seeded with suitable grass species to provide an initial ground cover and stabilize the soil surface.  Whilst Chloris gayana and Themeda triandra are the preferred species to use for revegetation by the quarry owner, other species that can work in this regard include the following and can either be collected on site (using a mower or by hand) or purchased from a relevant local seed supplier:

 

Botanical name

Common name

Chloris gayana

Rhodes grass

Chloris virgata

Feather-top Chloris

Cynodon dactylon

Couch grass

Eragrostis curvula

Weeping love grass

Melinis repens

Natal red top

Panicum coloratum

Small Buffalo Grass

Panicum deustum

Broad-leaved Panicum

Stenotaphrum secundatum

Buffalo turf grass

Themeda triandra

Rooigras

 

The overall revegetation plan will, therefore, be as follows:

·         Ameliorate the aesthetic impact of the site

·         Stabilise disturbed soil and rock faces

·         Minimize surface erosion and consequent siltation of natural water course located on site

·         Control wind-blown dust problems

·         Enhance the physical properties of the soil

·         Re-establish nutrient cycling

·         Re-establish a stable ecological system

 

Every effort must be made to avoid unnecessary disturbance of the natural vegetation during quarrying operations.

 

Drainage and Erosion Control

To control the drainage and erosion at site the following procedures will be adopted:

·         Areas where mining is completed should be rehabilitated immediately.

·         Areas to be disturbed in future mining operations will be kept as small as possible (i.e. conducting the quarrying operations in phases), thereby limiting the scale of erosion.

·         Quarry slopes will be profiled to ensure that they are not subjected to excessive erosion but capable of drainage run-off with minimum risk of scour (maximum 1:3 gradient).

·         Diversion channels will be constructed ahead of the open cuts as well as above emplacement areas and stockpiles to intercept clean run-off and divert it around disturbed areas into the natural drainage system downstream of the quarry.

·         Quarrying will be confined to the existing mining footprint as per the existing gravel mining license.

·         All existing mined areas will be revegetated to control erosion and sedimentation

·         Existing vegetation will be retained as far as possible to minimize erosion problems.

 

Visual Impacts Amelioration

The overall visual impact of the proposed mining operations will be minimised by the following mitigating measures:

 

 

12.1.10Monitoring and Reporting

Adequate management, maintenance and monitoring will be carried out annually by the applicant to ensure successful rehabilitation of the property until a closure certificate is obtained.

 

To minimise adverse environmental impacts associated with quarrying operations it is intended to adopt a progressive rehabilitation programme, which will entail carrying out the proposed rehabilitation procedures concurrently with quarrying activities.

 

Inspecting and Monitoring

·         Regular monitoring of all the environmental management measures and components should be carried out by the holder of the mining permit to ensure that the provisions of this programme are adhered to.

·         Ongoing and regular reporting of the progress of implementation of this programme must be done.  An environmental audit shall be carried out by an independent consultant on an annual basis.  The findings of this audit must be reported back to the Regional Director. This should include visual inspections on erosion and physical pollution.

·         A Performance Assessment Report must be submitted to the Regional Director after each audit as per Regulation 55 of the MPRDA.

·         Any change to the mining process needs to be documented during the audit process and the necessary changes recorded to facilitate future mining operations and audit investigations.

·         Adherence to the impacts associated with the proposed mining operations, as outlined in the Impact Assessment section of this report, must be addressed in the annual audit.

·         Inspections and monitoring shall be carried out on both the implementation of the programme and the impact on plant and animal life.

·         Adherence to concerns raised by IAP’s during the public participation process should receive special attention during the environmental audit and correspondence to the various IAP’s should be made on an annual basis in this regard.

 

Compliance Reporting / Submission of Information

 

12.1.11Training

The on-site manager is responsible for the training of all staff. Regular training sessions are recommended and shall include basic environmental awareness. It is important that training registers are kept as proof for auditing purposes. The following environmental training should be included:

·         The importance of conformance with all environmental policies.

·         Environmental impacts of the proposed activities (actual or potential).

·         Improved personal performance and the environmental benefits thereof.

·         Roles and responsibilities of achieving conformance with environmental policy and procedures.

·         Associated procedures and emergency preparedness and response requirements.

·         Potential consequences of departure from specified operating procedures.

·         Mitigation measures required to be implemented when carrying out their work activities.

 

12.1.12Environmental Incidents

a)      The on-site manager must maintain a register of all environmental incidents occurring as a result of the associated activities in terms of the contract. The following environmental incidents must be included:

·   Fires

·   Accidents

·   Hazardous material spills that contaminate soil or water resources

·   Non-compliance with applicable legislation

·   Non-compliance with this EMP.

b)      Environmental incidents must be investigated be the competent person and the environmental incident report will be forwarded to the permit holder. Incident reports should be presented within five working days of the incident. The environmental incident report must include:

·   A description of the incident.

·   Actions taken to contain any damage to the environment, personnel or the public.

·   Actions taken to repair / remediate any damage.

c)       The prescription of additional measures that may be required to remediate damage that results from the incident as well as prevention of similar incidents occurring in the future.

 

12.1.13List of Fines

 

CEMP TRANSGRESSION OR RESULTANT ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE

MIN. FEE

MAX. FEE

Failure to report environmental damage or CEMP transgressions to the ECO or RE.

R1000

R2000

Failure to carry out instructions of the ECO or RE regarding the environment or the CEMP

R2000

R4000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for supervision for loading and off-loading of delivery vehicles

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for securing of loads to ensure safe passage of delivery vehicles

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for the storage of imported materials within a designated contractors yard

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescribed administration, storage or handling of hazardous substances

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with fuel storage, refueling, or cleanup prescriptions

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for the use of ablution facilities

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for the use of designated eating areas, heating sources for cooking or presence of fire extinguishers

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding water provision

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding fire control

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions for solid waste management (incl. paint chips, cement and concrete)

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions to prevent water pollution

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding workshop equipment maintenance and storage

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding noise levels of construction activities

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding working hours

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding lighting and aesthetics

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding silt, debris and other obstruction removal

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding water diversion and drainage

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding erosion and scour protection

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions traffic accommodation

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding tree and vegetation removal/damage

R5000

R20000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding method statements

R500

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding environmental awareness training

R500

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding appointment of an Environmental Officer and monitoring of CEMP compliance

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding site demarcation and erection of fences

R500

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding control of vehicles and plant on access routes

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding information posters

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding procedures for emergencies

R1000

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions posting of emergency numbers and contacting of the emergency call centre

R500

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding information boards or a complaints register

R500

R1000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding protection of natural features

R500

R5000

Failure to comply with prescriptions regarding erosion and sedimentation control

R500

R5000

SCHEDULE OF FINES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE OR EMP TRANSGRESSIONS

(Based on City of Cape Town: Standard Environmental Specifications – Ver 5 (03/2002))

 

Note: The maximum fine for any environmental damage will never be less than the cost of applicable environmental rehabilitation.

 

For each subsequent similar offence committed by the same individual, the fine shall be doubled in value to a maximum value of R50 000.

 

12.1.14Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment

Description of measures

When the holder of a mining right intends closing the mining operation, an environmental risk report shall accompany the application for closure.  The requirements of such a risk report are contained in Regulation 60 of the MPRDA.

 

Closure Objectives

The decommissioning phase and closure of the quarry will involve removal of all debris and rehabilitation of areas not rehabilitated during the operational phases of the project.  This will comprise the scarification of compacted areas, reshaping of areas, topsoiling and regenerating all prepared surfaces.  The crusher and screening plants will be dissembled and all other infrastructural development such as haulage roads and stock pile areas will be rehabilitated.

 

Mine closure upon completion of the mining operation needs to be conducted in accordance to the objectives outlined in this report.  The recommendations outlined in this report regarding precision blasting of quarry sides, topsoil replacement and re-vegetation all need to be complied with before mine closure can be considered.

 

The stages for rehabilitation, which need to be adhered to in order to meet the closure objectives, are as follows:

·         Over the lifespan of the borrow pit, rehabilitation should commence initially in areas that are no longer being mined.

·         If mining is expanded into the proposed extension, rehabilitation is the adjacent quarry should be commenced at least twelve months before commencement of that phase.

·         The same strategy will be applied to future mining phases during the quarries lifespan.

·         Upon completion of the final mining phase, final quarry rehabilitation (which will involve the rehabilitation of the areas currently being mined out and the storage and processing areas) will be completed within 12 months of operation closure.

·         The proposed closure costs will be absorbed throughout the operation life of the quarry, as rehabilitation towards final closure objectives will be conducted continuously during mining operations.


 

12.2    Appendix B: Detailed Impact Assessment


 

 

 

 

 

Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Topography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Erosion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soils

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surface Water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Groundwater

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air quality/Dust

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vegetation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alien species

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Habitat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fauna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land capability/Agriculture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grazing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over/Under Services

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visual Impact

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Waste management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Socio-Economic Impacts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Archaeology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heritage

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Palaeontology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buildings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OVERALL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


12.3    Appendix C: Potential Species of Special Concern List for the area

Scientific Name

Family

Conservation Status

Flora

Barleria obtusa

ACANTHACEAE

CR

Chaetacanthus setiger

ACANTHACEAE

Critically Rare

Crabbea acaulis

ACANTHACEAE

DDD

Crabbea hirsuta

ACANTHACEAE

DDD

Hypoestes aristata var. aristata

ACANTHACEAE

DDT

Justicia bolusii

ACANTHACEAE

DDT

Thunbergia capensis

ACANTHACEAE

DDT

Thunbergia dregeana

ACANTHACEAE

DDT

Aizoon rigidum

AIZOACEAE

Declining

Ceratiosicyos laevis

ACHARIACEAE

Declining

Guthriea capensis

ACHARIACEAE

Declining

Kiggelaria africana

ACHARIACEAE

Declining

Tulbaghia acutiloba

ALLIACEAE

Declining

Tulbaghia galpinii

ALLIACEAE

Declining

Obetia tenax

URTICACEAE

NT

Albuca setosa

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Aloe arborescens

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe ecklonis

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe ferox

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe maculata

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Aloe pratensis

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Angraecum sacciferum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Aristea abyssinica

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Aristea anceps

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus aethiopicus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus concinnus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus denudatus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus falcatus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus ramosissimus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Asparagus virgatus

ASPARAGACEAE

PNCO

Bergeranthus multiceps

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Boophone disticha

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Brownleea coerulea

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Brownleea parviflora

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Brownleea recurvata

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Brunsvigia bosmaniae

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Brunsvigia grandiflora

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Brunsvigia radulosa

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine abyssinica

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine asphodeloides

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine favosa

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Bulbine narcissifolia

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Crocosmia masoniorum

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus brachyscyphus

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus flanaganii

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus mackenii subsp. cooperi

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus macowanii

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Cyrtanthus tuckii var. viridilobus

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Delosperma katbergense

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Delosperma mahonii

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Delosperma repens

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Dierama atrum

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Dierama dissimile

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Dierama reynoldsii

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Dierama robustum

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Dietes iridioides

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Disa cephalotes subsp. cephalotes

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disa oreophila subsp. oreophila

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disa patula var. transvaalensis

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disa stachyoides

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disa versicolor

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis cardiophora

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis fanniniae

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis lindleyana

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis oxyglossa

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis renibractea

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis stenoplectron

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Disperis wealei

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Drimia macrocentra

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Erica caespitosa

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica caffra var. auricularis

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica caffrorum var. caffrorum

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica cooperi var. missionis

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica leucopelta var. leucopelta

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica leucopelta var. pubescens

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica natalitia var. natalitia

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica reenensis

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica schlechteri

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Erica woodii var. woodii

ERICACEAE

PNCO

Eulophia foliosa

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Freesia laxa subsp. laxa

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Galtonia candicans

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Gasteria excelsa

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus crassifolius

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus inandensis

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus longicollis subsp. longicollis

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus mortonius

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Gladiolus wilsonii

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Habenaria arenaria

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Habenaria clavata

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Habenaria tridens

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Haemanthus humilis subsp. humilis

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Hesperantha baurii subsp. baurii

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Hesperantha coccinea

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Hesperantha grandiflora

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Hesperantha radiata

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Holothrix scopularia

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis acuminata

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis angustifolia var. buchananii

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis argentea var. argentea

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis iridifolia

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis multiceps

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Hypoxis rigidula var. pilosissima

HYPOXIDACEAE

PNCO

Kniphofia baurii

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Kniphofia parviflora

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Kniphofia uvaria

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Ledebouria cooperi

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ledebouria ovatifolia

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ledebouria revoluta

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Massonia jasminiflora

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Mimusops obovata

SAPOTACEAE

PNCO

Moraea albicuspa

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Moraea inclinata

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Moraea pallida

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Neobolusia tysonii

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Nerine appendiculata

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Nerine bowdenii

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Nerine gibsonii

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Nerine undulata

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum conicum subsp. conicum

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum fimbrimarginatum

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum graminifolium

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum longibracteatum

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Ornithogalum tenuifolium subsp. tenuifolium

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Pittosporum viridiflorum

PITTOSPORACEAE

PNCO

Podocarpus falcatus

PODOCARPACEAE

PNCO

Podocarpus latifolius

PODOCARPACEAE

PNCO

Protea caffra subsp. caffra

PROTEACEAE

PNCO

Protea roupelliae subsp. hamiltonii

PROTEACEAE

PNCO

Protea roupelliae subsp. roupelliae

PROTEACEAE

PNCO

Protea simplex

PROTEACEAE

PNCO

Protea subvestita

PROTEACEAE

PNCO

Pterygodium hastatum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Pterygodium leucanthum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Pterygodium magnum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Ruschia putterillii

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium longicauda var. jacottetianum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium longicauda var. longicauda

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium parviflorum

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Satyrium trinerve

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Scadoxus puniceus

AMARYLLIDACEAE

PNCO

Schizocarphus nervosus

HYACINTHACEAE

PNCO

Schizochilus zeyheri

ORCHIDACEAE

PNCO

Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme

SAPOTACEAE

PNCO

Trachyandra affinis

ASPHODELACEAE

PNCO

Tritonia drakensbergensis

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Tritonia gladiolaris

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia confusa

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia densiflora

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia gladioloides

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Watsonia pillansii

IRIDACEAE

PNCO

Lantana rugosa

VERBENACEAE

Rare

Lippia javanica

VERBENACEAE

Rare

Valeriana capensis var. capensis

VALERIANACEAE

Rare

Cyphostemma cirrhosum subsp. cirrhosum

VITACEAE

VU

Hybanthus capensis

VIOLACEAE

VU

Rhoicissus revoilii

VITACEAE

VU

Tribulus terrestris

ZYGOPHYLLACEAE

VU

Viscum obscurum

VISCACEAE

VU

Xyris capensis

XYRIDACEAE

VU

 

Scientific Name

Family

Common name

Status

Endemic

Mammals

Cercopithecus aethiops subsp.  pygerythrus

CERCOPITHECIDAE

Vervet Monkey

LC

 

Elephantulus rupestris

MACROSCELIDIDAE

Smith's Rock Elephant Shrew

LC

 

Galerella pulverulenta

HERPESTIDAE

Small Grey Mongoose

LC

 

Hystrix africaeaustralis

HYSTRICIDAE

Porcupine

LC

 

Lepus saxatilis

LEPORIDAE

Scrub / Savannah Hare

LC

 

Myotis tricolor

VESPERTILIONIDAE

Temminck's Hairy Bat

Near Threatened

 

Papio ursinus

CERCOPITHECIDAE

Chacma Baboon

LC

 

Procavia capensis

PROCAVIDAE

Rock Hyrax

LC

 

Redunca fulvorufula

BOVIDAE

Mountain Reedbuck

LC

 

Rhabdomys pumilio

MURIDAE

Striped Mouse

LC

 

Saccostomus campestris

MURIDAE

Pouched Mouse

LC

 

Tadarida aegyptiaca

MOLOSSIDAE

Egyptian Free-tailed Bat

LC

 

Taurotragus oryx

BOVIDAE

Eland

LC

 

Reptiles

Agama atra

AGAMIDAE

Southern Rock Agama

LC

 

Aparallactus capensis

ATRACTASPIDIDAE

Black-headed Centipede-eater

LC

 

Homoroselaps lacteus

ATRACTASPIDIDAE

Spotted Harlequin Snake

LC

Yes

Bradypodion ventrale

CHAMAELEONIDAE

Eastern Cape Dwarf Chameleon

LC

Yes

Amplorhinus multimaculatus

COLUBRIDAE

Many-spotted Snake

LC

 

Boaedon capensis

COLUBRIDAE

Brown House Snake

LC

 

Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia

COLUBRIDAE

Red-lipped Snake

LC

 

Dasypeltis scabra

COLUBRIDAE

Rhombic Egg-eater

LC

 

Duberria lutrix subsp. lutrix

COLUBRIDAE

South African Slug-eater

LC

Yes

Lamprophis aurora

COLUBRIDAE

Aurora House Snake

LC

Yes

Lamprophis guttatus

COLUBRIDAE

Spotted House Snake

LC

 

Lycodonomorphus laevissimus

COLUBRIDAE

Dusky-bellied Water Snake

LC

Yes

Lycodonomorphus rufulus

COLUBRIDAE

Brown Water Snake

LC

 

Philothamnus semivariegatus

COLUBRIDAE

Spotted Bush Snake

LC

 

Psammophis crucifer

COLUBRIDAE

Cross-marked Grass Snake

LC

 

Psammophylax rhombeatus subsp. rhombeatus

COLUBRIDAE

Spotted Grass Snake

LC

 

Pseudaspis cana

COLUBRIDAE

Mole Snake

LC

 

Chamaesaura aenea

CORDYLIDAE

Coppery Grass Lizard

LC

Yes

Cordylus cordylus

CORDYLIDAE

Cape Girdled Lizard

LC

Yes

Pseudocordylus melanotus subsp. subviridis

CORDYLIDAE

Drakensberg Crag Lizard

LC

Yes

Pseudocordylus microlepidotus subsp. fasciatus

CORDYLIDAE

Karoo Crag Lizard

LC

Yes

Pseudocordylus microlepidotus

CORDYLIDAE

Cape Crag Lizard

 

 

Hemachatus haemachatus

ELAPIDAE

Rinkhals

LC

 

Naja nivea

ELAPIDAE

Cape Cobra

LC

 

Afroedura halli

GEKKONIDAE

Hall's Flat Gecko

LC

Yes

Afroedura tembulica

GEKKONIDAE

Tembu Flat Gecko

LC

Yes

Pachydactylus maculatus

GEKKONIDAE

Spotted Gecko

LC

 

Pachydactylus mariquensis

GEKKONIDAE

Marico Gecko

LC

Yes

Pachydactylus oculatus

GEKKONIDAE

Golden Spotted Gecko

LC

Yes

Nucras lalandii

LACERTIDAE

Delalande's Sandveld Lizard

LC

Yes

Pedioplanis burchelli

LACERTIDAE

Burchell's Sand Lizard

LC

Yes

Pedioplanis lineoocellata subsp. lineoocellata

LACERTIDAE

Spotted Sand Lizard

LC

 

Pedioplanis lineoocellata subsp. pulchella

LACERTIDAE

Common Sand Lizard

LC

 

Pedioplanis namaquensis

LACERTIDAE

Namaqua Sand Lizard

LC

 

Leptotyphlops nigricans

LEPTOTYPHLOPIDAE

Black Thread Snake

LC

Yes

Leptotyphlops scutifrons subsp. conjunctus

LEPTOTYPHLOPIDAE

Eastern Thread Snake

 

 

Pelomedusa subrufa

PELOMEDUSIDAE

Marsh Terrapin

LC

 

Acontias gracilicauda

SCINCIDAE

Thin-tailed Legless Skink

LC

Yes

Trachylepis capensis

SCINCIDAE

Cape Skink

LC

 

Trachylepis homalocephala

SCINCIDAE

Red-sided Skink

LC

Yes

Trachylepis punctatissima

SCINCIDAE

Speckled Rock Skink

LC

 

Trachylepis varia

SCINCIDAE

Variable Skink

LC

 

Homopus femoralis

TESTUDINIDAE

Greater Padloper

LC

Yes

Stigmochelys pardalis

TESTUDINIDAE

Leopard Tortoise

LC

 

Rhinotyphlops lalandei

TYPHLOPIDAE

Delalande's Beaked Blind Snake

LC

 

Varanus niloticus

VARANIDAE

Water Monitor

LC

 

Bitis arietans subsp. arietans

VIPERIDAE

Puff Adder

LC

 

Causus rhombeatus

VIPERIDAE

Rhombic Night Adder

LC

 

Amphibians

Amietophrynus rangeri

BUFONIDAE

Raucous Toad

LC

 

Vandijkophrynus gariepensis

BUFONIDAE

Karoo Toad

LC

 

Kassina senegalensis

HYPEROLIIDAE

Bubbling Kassina

LC

 

Semnodactylus wealii

HYPEROLIIDAE

Rattling Frog

LC

 

Phrynobatrachus natalensis

PHRYNOBATRACHIDAE

Snoring Puddle Frog

LC

 

Xenopus laevis

PIPIDAE

Common Platanna

LC

 

Ptychadena porosissima

PTYCHADENIDAE

Striped Grass Frog

LC

 

Amietia angolensis

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Common or Angola River Frog

LC

 

Amietia fuscigula

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Cape River Frog

LC

 

Cacosternum boettgeri

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Common Caco

LC

 

Cacosternum nanum

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Bronze Caco

LC

 

Pyxicephalus adspersus

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Giant Bull Frog

NT

 

Strongylopus fasciatus

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Striped Stream Frog

LC

 

Strongylopus grayii

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Clicking Stream Frog

LC

 

Tomopterna natalensis

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Natal Sand Frog

LC

 

Tomopterna tandyi

PYXICEPHALIDAE

Tandy's Sand Frog

LC

 

Invertebrates

Aslauga australis (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Southern Purple

Data Deficient

Yes

Chrysoritis lyncurium (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Tsomo River Opal

Vulnerable

Yes

Chrysoritis penningtoni (Butterfly)

LYCAENIDAE

Pennington's Opal

Vulnerable

Yes

Fish

Clarias gariepinus

CLARIIDAE

NEMBA (NL) [3126]


 

12.4    Appendix D: References

·         Acocks, J. P. H. 1988. Veld Types of South Africa. Memoirs of the Botanical Survey of South Africa, No 57. Botanical Research Institute, Department of Agriculture and Water Supply, South Africa.

·         Atlas and Red List of the Reptiles of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. 2014. Edited by Michael F. Bates, William R. Branch, Aaron M. Bauer, Marius Burger, Johan Marais, Graham J. Alexander & Marienne S. de Villiers. SANBI, Pretoria.

·         Barnes, K. N. (Ed.) 2000.  The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.

·         Batten, H., and Bokelmann, H. 2001. Eastern Cape: South African Wild Flower Guide 11. The Botanical Society of South Africa. pp 306.

·         Branch, W. R. (Ed.) 1988.  South African Red Data Book - Reptiles and Amphibians.  South African National Scientific Programmes Report No 151.

·         Brink A. B. A. 1985. Engineering Geology of Southern Africa, Vol. 4. Building Publications,  Pretoria.

·         Bromilow, C. 2001. Problem Plants of South Africa. A Guide to the Identification and Control of More than 300 Invasive Plants and Other Weeds. Briza Publications. pp 258

·         Bruton, M. N., and Gess, F. W. 1988. Towards and Environmental Plan for the Eastern Cape. Conference proceedings from Rhodes University. Grocott and Sherry, Grahamstown.

·         Friedmann, Y (Ed.) 2004.  Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A Conservation Assessment.  Endangered Wildlife Trust.

·         Friedmann, Y. & Daly, B. 2004. Red data book of the mammals of South Africa, a conservation assessment. Johannesburg, Endangered Wildlife Trust.

·         Fuggle, R. F. and Rabie, M. A.  2003.  Environmental Management in South Africa.  Juta & Co, Johannesburg.

·         Gledhill, E. 1981. Veldblomme van Oos-Kaapland. The Department of Nature and Environmental Conservation of the Cape Province Administration. Galvin and Sales, Cape Town.

·         Golding, J. (Ed.) 2002.  Southern African Plant Red Data Lists.  Southern African Botanical Diversity Network Report No 14.

·         Henderson, L. 2001. Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No 12. Agricultural Research Council. pp 300.

·         Hilton-Taylor, C. 1996.  Red Data List of Southern African Plants.  National Botanical Institute..

·         Köpke, D. 1988. The Climate of the Eastern Cape. In: Bruton, M. N., and Gess, F. W. (Eds). Towards and Environmental Plan for the Eastern Cape. Conference proceedings from Rhodes University. Grocott and Sherry, Grahamstown.

·         Lewis, C. 1995.  The Geomorphological Evolution of the Area between Grahamstown and the Indian Ocean.  Rhodes University, Grahamstown.

·         Low, A. B., and Rebelo, A. 1988. Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. A Companion to the Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

·         Maclean, G. L., 1985. Robert’s Birds of Southern Africa. Trustees of the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Cape Town.

·         Minter LR, Burger M, Harrison JA, Braack HH, Bishop PJ & Kloepfer D (eds). 2004. Atlas and Red Data book of the frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. SI/MAB Series no. 9. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.

·         Pienaar, K. 2000. The South African What Flower is That? Struik Publishers (Pty) Ltd. Cape Town.

·         Pierce, S. M. 2003.  The STEP Handbook. Integrating the natural environment into land use decisions at the municipal level:  towards sustainable development.  Terrestrial Ecological Research Unit Report No 47.  University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

·         Schulze, B. R. 1947. Classification of Climates of Southern Africa after Koppen and Thornwaite. S. Afr. geog. J. 29:32-42.

·         Sinclair, I., and Hockey, P. 1996. Sasol : The Larger Illustrated Guide to Birds of Southern Africa. Struik. Cape Town.

·         Smithers, R. H. N., 1986. South African Red Data Book. Terrestrial Mammals. South African National Scientific Programmes Report No. 125 Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. Pretoria.

·         Soil Classification Working Group (SCWG), 1991. Soil Classification, A Taxonomic System for South Africa. Memoirs on the Agricultural Natural Resources of South Africa, No 15. Department of Agricultural Development, Pretoria.

·         Stirton, C. H. 1987. Plant Invaders : Beautiful, but Dangerous. The Department of Nature and Environmental Conservation of the Cape Province Administration. Galvin and Sales, Cape Town.

·         Toerien, D. K. and Hill, R. S. 1989.  The Geology of the Port Elizabeth Area.  Geological Survey explanation of sheet3324 Port Elizabeth

·         Van Rensburg, P. W. J.  1970.  Planning Open Pit Mines.  Proceedings of the symposium on the theoretical background to the planning of open pit mines with special reference to slope stability.  The South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.  A A Balkema, Cape Town.

·         Vanderplank, H. J. 1999. Wildflowers of the Port Elizabeth Area. Gamtoos to Swartkops Rivers (The Coastal Bush and Fynbos Region). Bluecliff Publishing. pp 216.

·         Viljoen, M. J. and Reimold, W. U.  1999.  An Introduction to South Africa’s Geological and Mining Heritage.  Mintek Publishers, South Africa.

·         Vlok, J, H, J., Euston-Brown, D.I.W. 2002. The patterns within, and the ecological processes that sustain, the subtropical thicket vegetation in the planning domain for the Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Planning (STEP) project.  TERU Report 40.  University of Port Elizabeth.

·         Weather Bureau. 1988. Climate of South Africa - Climate statistics up to 1984 (WB40). Government Printer, Pretoria.

·         Weinert H. H., 1980.  The Natural Road Construction Materials of Southern Africa. Academica, Cape Town.

·         Wohlbier, R. H.  1986.  Bulk Handling in Open Pit Mines and Quarries.  Trans Tech Publications, Germany.

 


 

12.5    Appendix E: Financial Provision and Undertaking Letters


 

12.6    Appendix F: Borrow Pit Geological Test Results


 

12.7    Appendix G: Interested and Affected Party Correspondence