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 |
|
Mr Jamie Pote |
Engineering Advice & Services (Biophysical and EMP) |
|
Mr Dieter Bester |
Engineering Advice & Services (Geotech and Engineering) |
|
Mr Ray Parker |
Engineering Advice & Services (Engineering and Review) |
14 November 2014
1.1 Legal and Administrative Requirements
1.2 NEMA principles of particular relevance to biodiversity:
1.3 Responsibilities of Role Players
1.3.4 Environmental Control Officer
1.3.5 Environmental Liaison Officer
1.6 Applicant and Consultant Details
2 Proposed Project Description
2.5 Description of the Existing Environment
2.5.5 Hydrology (Ground and surface water).
2.5.9 Paleontological resources
2.5.10 Archaeological resources
2.5.13 Vegetation of Southern Africa
2.5.14 Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP)
2.5.15 Implications of Regional Planning frameworks
2.5.16 Species of Special Concern occurring in the region
2.5.17 Social and economic environment
3 Individual Borrow Pit Assessments
4 Summary of the potential impacts, significance assessment and the proposed mitigation measures
4.1 Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts
4.1.1 Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts
4.2 Identification of potential impacts
4.2.1 Possible impacts on biodiversity during mining construction and operations
4.2.3 Appropriate technical or management options
4.2.4 Review the significance of the identified impacts
4.2.5 Listed activities (in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations)
4.2.6 Potential cumulative impacts
4.2.7 Potential impact on heritage resources
4.2.8 Potential impacts on communities, individuals or competing land uses in close proximity.
4.2.10 Confirmation of specialist report appended.
5 Closure and environmental objectives
5.2 Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment
5.3 Confirmation of consultation
7.1 Identification of interested and affected parties
7.1.1 Details of the engagement process
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
8.2 Description of solutions to risks
8.3 Environmental awareness training
9.1 Plans for quantum calculation purposes
9.2 Alignment of rehabilitation with the closure objectives
9.4 Undertaking to provide financial provision.
10.1 The annual amount required to manage and rehabilitate the environment
11 REGULATION 52 (2) (h) Undertaking to execute the Environmental Management Plan
12.1 Appendix A: Environmental Management Plan
12.1.2 Biodiversity Requirements
12.1.3 Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Sites
12.1.7 Waste Management and Ablution Facilities
12.1.8 Infrastructural Requirements
12.1.10 Monitoring and Reporting
12.1.12 Environmental Incidents
12.1.14 Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-mining environment
12.2 Appendix B: Detailed Impact Assessment
12.3 Appendix C: Potential Species of Special Concern List for the area
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
Figure 1: Map indicating locality of borrow pits with major roads, towns, etc.
Figure 6: Land Use – excluding Natural Vegetation (SANBI Landcover, 2006).
Table 2: Details of Consultant
Table 3: Locality of proposed borrow pits.
Table 4: Summary of Biodiversity features for the Borrow Pit sites.
Table 5: Species of Special Concern known to occur in the vicinity of the sites.
Table 6: List of potential Impacts relating to the expansion of Borrow Pits
Table 8: Listed Activities associated with Borrow Pits
Table 9: List of Municipal Managers and Ward Councillors.
Table 10: List of Regional Interested and Affected Parties.
Table 11: Table indicating proposed mining area and quantum calculation.
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 |
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. |
Report Version |
Date |
Public Draft |
14 November 2014 |
Final Report |
~ 10 January 2015 |
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).
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.)
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 |
|
Tel No: |
|
Fax No: |
|
E-mail Address: |
|
Postal Address |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.)
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.
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.
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:
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: |
|
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Topography: |
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Distance from Road: |
|
|
|
||
Access: |
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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 |
|
||
3.4 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 |
|
||
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 |
|
||
3.10 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 |
|
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Mining Plan Details |
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Proposed mining direction: |
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Area to be mined |
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Projected volume |
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Access road |
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3.11
3.12 Borrow Pit DR08099/7.0
Contact Information |
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Contact |
Name |
Contact Number |
Landowner |
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Ward Councillor |
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Municipal Manager |
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Location Details |
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GPS Position: |
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Topography: |
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Distance from Road: |
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Physical Details |
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Access: |
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Fencing: |
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Borrow Pit Extent: |
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Proposed Mining Direction: |
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Material Availability: |
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Material Type: |
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Data Collection: |
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Sample Collection and Tests Performed |
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Dolerite |
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Sandstone |
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Biophysical Environmental Description |
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Vegetation and Status |
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Present Land Use |
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CBA |
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Land Use Type |
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Agricultural features |
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Alien invasive species |
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Potential Faunal Habitat: |
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Natural Drainage and Erosion |
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Rivers and Drainage Lines |
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Wetlands |
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Quaternary Catchment |
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Social Environment Description |
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Heritage |
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Palaeontology |
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Archaeology |
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Buildings and Structures |
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Issus raised by I & AP’s |
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Borrow Pit DR08099/7.0
Impact Assessment Mitigation |
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Issue |
Description |
Recommendation |
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Visual Exposure: |
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Natural Drainage and wetlands: |
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Buildings: |
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Overhead Services: |
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Underground Services: |
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Fences: |
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Vegetation |
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Fauna |
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Agricultural features |
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Grazing |
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Mining Plan Details |
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Proposed mining direction: |
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Area to be mined |
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Projected volume |
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Access road |
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· 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)
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. |
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Duration |
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Permanent |
Long term |
Medium term |
Short term |
Very short term |
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High Intensity |
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Extent |
National |
High |
High |
High |
High |
Medium |
Regional |
High |
High |
High |
High |
Medium |
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Local |
High |
High |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
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Site specific |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
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Medium Intensity |
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Extent |
National |
High |
High |
High |
Medium |
Medium |
Regional |
High |
High |
High |
Medium |
Medium |
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Local |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
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Site specific |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Low |
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Low Intensity |
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Extent |
National |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Regional |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
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Local |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium |
Low |
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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.
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.
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.
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 |
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Erosion |
Increased erosion risk resulting from removal of vegetation and stockpiling of topsoil |
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Geology |
Permanent alteration of Geology through the removal of material from BP’s |
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Soils |
Potential loss of soil from BP’s due to removal of topsoil and stockpiling for rehabilitation |
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Surface Water |
Potential increased sediment load in runoff water from borrow pits and road works (Directly into Wetlands or Rivers) |
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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 |
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Air quality/Dust |
Nuisance impacts of dust generated from excavating, blasting, crushing, stockpiling and road works on traffic on the roads and nearby residents. |
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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. |
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Fire |
Increased risk of fire may interfere with natural fire regimes and adversely affect biodiversity. |
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Alien species |
Introduction or spread of alien invasive species, feral fauna (including agricultural and commercial exotic species) and diseases of native flora and fauna. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Land capability/Agriculture |
No permanent significant impact on land capability is expected. |
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Grazing |
Loss of grazing to Landowner as a result of Borrow Pit |
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Fences |
Significant changes to landowners fencing as a result of BP expansion |
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Noise |
Noise impacts during blasting and crushing activities are expected on nearby residents. |
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Over/Under Services |
Blasting activities at the borrow pits may affect the nearby houses and infrastructure. |
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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. |
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Waste management |
Pollution of construction and domestic waste as well as waste water could lead to other visual impacts and loss of natural habitat. |
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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. |
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Archaeology |
(Depends on HIA) |
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Heritage |
(Depends on HIA) |
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Palaeontology |
(Depends on PIA) |
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Buildings and Structures |
Impacts to Buildings and Structures in close proximity to the site |
Table 8 provides a list of activities associated with borrow pit mining that may be applicable for specific borrow pits.
No cumulative impacts are expected as a result of the expansion of the Borrow Pits, due to the limited disturbance area.
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.
Refer to Appendix B for public participation notices and correspondence from IAP’s.
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)
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Impact |
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Topography |
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Erosion |
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Geology |
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Soils |
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Surface Water |
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Groundwater |
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Air quality/Dust |
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Vegetation |
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Fire |
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Alien species |
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Habitat |
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Fauna |
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Land capability/Agriculture |
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Grazing |
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Fences |
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Noise |
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Over/Under Services |
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Visual Impact |
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Waste management |
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Socio-Economic Impacts |
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Archaeology |
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Heritage |
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Palaeontology |
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Buildings |
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OVERALL |
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Table 8: Listed Activities associated with Borrow Pits
Listed Activity |
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LN1: 23 |
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LN1: 24 |
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LN3: 12 |
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LN3: 13 |
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LN3: 14 |
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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; - |
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(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. |
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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; |
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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; |
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(b) Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans; |
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(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. |
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National Protected Area Expansion Strategy Focus areas. |
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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. |
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(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 |
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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.
Refer to Mine Plans and EMP for the detailed Rehabilitation Plan.
The overall environmental Objective for mine closure is as follows:
Specific environmental goals include:
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.
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 |
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Notification of DEA&DP for any project changes/ deviations |
DRPW |
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Notification of DEA &DP on ECO appointment |
DRPW |
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Notification of DEA&DP on the commencement of the project |
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Notification of Interested and Affected Parties in the vicinity of construction of commencement date and completion |
Contractor |
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Copy of the Environmental Authorisation kept on site |
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Copy of the Construction EMP kept on site. |
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ECO’s monitoring and audit reports to be kept on site and be available for inspection by any relevant and competent authority |
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An environmental audit report must be submitted to DEA&DP upon completion of the construction and rehabilitation activities |
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Environmental Agreement between DRPW and Contractor |
DRPW & Contractor |
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Filing System for Environmental Documentation (Method Statements) |
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Construction camp location and layout |
Contractor to submit a method statement of how he will handle the following |
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Site Clearing |
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Handling of Hazardous Substances |
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Solid Waste Management |
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Handling of Wastewater |
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Erosion and Sediment Control |
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Fire Preventative Measures |
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Cement and Concrete Batching |
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Vegetation and Rehabilitation |
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Environmental Permitting Requirements |
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National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) – River crossing |
Contractor |
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National Water (No. 36 of 1998) – Water abstraction |
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Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. 28 of 2002) – Borrow pits |
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National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999) |
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National Environmental Management: Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008) – Waste Management |
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Administration |
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Organogram of contractor’s management structure available |
Contractor |
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Has a ELO been appointed |
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Is the ELO permanently on site |
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Is the ELO submitting reports to the resident engineer on a monthly basis |
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Environmental Awareness Training |
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Is the ELO appropriately trained to carry out training and mentoring on environmental management? |
Contractor |
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Has Environmental Awareness Training (EAT) been carried out? |
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Are records of EAT available |
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Camp Depot |
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Perimeter fencing erected and maintained |
Contractor |
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Water available for human consumption at the site office and working areas points on site |
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Provision of appropriate ablution facilities |
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Housing of labour force |
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Storage of equipment and material at designated areas |
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Maintenance & Refuelling |
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Dip trays for emergency repairs should be provided |
Contractor |
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Suitable containers should be provided for collecting waste oil |
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Vehicle servicing areas should be demarcated |
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Leaking vehicles should be repaired immediately |
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Refuelling areas should be designated |
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Refuelling areas should be protected against pollution or surfaced |
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Wastewater collection measures should be in place at vehicle washing areas |
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Environmental management of Construction Activities |
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Work restricted to 07h00 – 17h00 on weekdays |
Contractor |
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Work restricted to 07h00 – 14h00 on Saturdays |
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Work only allowed after hours in exceptional circumstances |
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Notifications of interruption of service due to construction |
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Inform nearby I&APs of noisy after hours work |
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Inform landowners of any planned damage to properties |
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Maintenance of photographic record of damage |
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Compensation for damage to property |
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Demarcation of no-go areas and proper signage |
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Designate smoking areas where smoking can occur in a controlled environment |
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Prevent casual access to the construction site |
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Contractor’s employees to be clearly identifiable |
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Blasting to comply with relevant regulations |
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No unemployed labour seekers to gather on site |
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Inform employees of site specific environmental risks |
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Cover material loads in transit |
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Safety & Security |
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Road users and pedestrians should be informed of alternative routes |
Contractor |
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General compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993) |
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Protection of workers during thunderstorms |
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Periodic checking of excavations |
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Appropriate traffic signs displayed |
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Cement & Concrete Batching Plant |
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Cement mixed in allocated areas |
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Cleaning of cement mixing trays be done on proper cleaning trays |
Contractor |
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Proper storage of cement bags before disposal |
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Excess concrete should be disposed of at a licensed landfill site |
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Cement laden runoff from concrete stockpile should be controlled |
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Storage of Hazardous Substances |
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Suitable storage of hazardous substances |
Contractor |
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Hazard signs indicating the hazardous substance at storage site |
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Petroleum tanks contained in a bund wall, which is more than 10% its capacity |
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Material and safety data sheets should be readily available for hazardous substances |
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Run-off from storage site should be contained |
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Hazardous Waste |
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Proper collection and disposal of contaminated soils at approved facilities/site |
Contractor |
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Proper storage of used oils before disposal |
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Appropriate disposal of hazardous waste at approved landfill sites |
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Unused or rejected bituminous products should be returned to the supplier not disposed or buried in a landfill site. |
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Waste disposal tracking records |
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Wastewater |
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Oil separation/settlement system should be placed for water run-off from washing areas, workshops, fuel depots to pass through |
Contractor |
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Wastewater shouldn’t be disposed into municipal stormwater system |
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Conservancy tanks should be used for wastewater collection |
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Private Property Access and Security |
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Notify landowners prior to undertaking construction work |
Contractor |
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Access to adjacent private properties prohibited except under official business |
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Rehabilitation |
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Suitable rehabilitation of cut and fill slopes |
Contractor |
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Topsoil replacement |
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All construction residue removed after construction |
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All structures should be removed |
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Contaminated soil should be removed and properly disposed |
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Scarify areas compacted by vehicle movements |
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Rehabilitation plan should be in place |
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Borrow pits reshaped to even surfaces and closed off |
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Compliance and Penalties |
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Non-compliance directive been issued to the contractor |
ECO |
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Non-compliance directive been recorded in a dedicated register and reported in monthly reports and at monthly site meetings |
ELO |
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Has a penalty for non-compliance been implemented by engineer? |
RE/ELO |
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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.
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 |
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Table 10: List of Regional Interested and Affected Parties.
Name |
Organisation |
Position |
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Postal address1 |
Sending method |
Date sent |
Ms Deidré Watkins |
DMR |
Department of Mineral Resources Private Bag X6076 Port Elizabeth 6000 |
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Jimmy Calder |
WESSA |
Regional WESSA |
PO Box 2909, Beacon Bay, 5205 |
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Phillip Wilkinson |
WESSA |
Regional WESSA |
phillip@wessabk.co.za |
PO Box 2909, Beacon Bay, 5205 |
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Ms. Mariagrazia Gamlimberti |
SAHRA |
APM Impact Assessor |
South African Heritage Resources Agency, PO Box 4637, Cape Town 8000 |
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Sello Mokhanya |
Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority |
Regional Heritage |
info@ecphra.org.za |
ECPHRA, Corner Scholl and
Amalinda Drive |
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Andrew Lucas |
Dept. of Water Affairs- EC |
Regional Water Affairs |
Department of Water Affairs and Forestry PO Box 7019, EL, 5200 |
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ANDM |
Municipal Manager |
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ANDM |
Director: Eng. |
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ANDM |
Roads Dept. |
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ANDM |
Director: Health & Community Services |
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DEDEAT |
Regional Director (ANDM) |
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DR&PW |
EPWP Regional Manager |
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DEDEAT |
Regional Director (ANDM) |
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DEDAET |
Regional Manager |
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Deputy Director: Alfred Nzo (Land Reform) |
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Deputy Director: Alfred Nzo (REID) |
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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.
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.
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. |
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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 |
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Do not burn rubbish/vegetation without permission |
Moenie Rommel verbrand sonder toestemming nie |
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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 |
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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 |
Refer to the Mine Plans provided in Section 3 of this report and Table 11 below for area of existing and expansion areas.
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.
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 |
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Total: |
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R 1 171 966.00 |
The required amount must be provided for by the DR&PW should the right be granted.
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.
Signed letters for financial provision are included in Appendix A.
Signed letters for undertaking are included in Appendix A.
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.
· 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).
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:
Signed at ________________ on this ________day of _____________________ 201____ For CONTRACTOR Signature _____________________
Print Name _____________________ (duly authorised) As Witnesses:
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Layout Plan
Signage
Restrictions on Mining
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
12.1.7 Waste Management and Ablution Facilities
12.1.8 Infrastructural Requirements
· 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.
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
Operating Procedures in the Mining Area
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.
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.
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.
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.
· 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
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.
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
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.
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.
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Impact |
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Topography |
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Erosion |
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Geology |
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Soils |
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Surface Water |
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Groundwater |
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Air quality/Dust |
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Vegetation |
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Fire |
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Alien species |
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Habitat |
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Fauna |
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Land capability/Agriculture |
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Grazing |
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Fences |
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Noise |
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Over/Under Services |
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Visual Impact |
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Waste management |
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Socio-Economic Impacts |
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Archaeology |
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Heritage |
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Palaeontology |
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Buildings |
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OVERALL |
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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] |
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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