APPENDIX D. Specialists Reports

Transcription

1 APPENDIX D Specialists Reports

2 APPENDIX D.1 Wetland Assessment

3 Wetland Assessment:: Extension of East Central Arterial Road, Richards Bay May 2012 Extension of East Central Arterial Road to Richards Bay Minerals: Specialist Wetland Assessment and Assessment of Aquatic Impacts Date: May 2012 Authors: Adam Teixeira-Leite Teixeira & Douglas Macfarlane Report No: EP36-01

4 Prepared for: by Date: May 2012 Please direct any queries to: Douglas Macfarlane Cell: Mallory Road, Hilton, South Africa, Suggested report citation: Teixeira-Leite, A. and Macfarlane, D.M Extension of East Central Arterial Road to Richards Bay Minerals: Specialist Wetland Assessment and Assessment of Aquatic Impacts. Unpublished report for Arcus GIBB. May 2012.

5 Wetland Assessment: Extensionn of East Central Arterial Road, Richards Bay May 2012 SPECIALIST WETLAND ASSESSMENT REPORT DETAILS AND DECLARATION This is to certify that the following report has been prepared as per the requirements of Section 32 (3) of the NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT, 1998 (Act No. 107 OF 1998) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS 2010 as per Government Notice No GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 18 JUNE Document Title: Extension of East Central Arterial Road to Richards Bay Minerals: Specialist Wetland Assessment and Assessment of Aquatic Impacts. Report prepared by: Adam Teixeira-Leite Field of study/expertise: Bsc (Honours) Environmental Science Wetland Ecology and Fluvial Geomorphology Date: 22 May 2012 Revision Number: 1 Checked by: Douglas Macfarlane Approved by: Douglas Macfarlane Signature: Client: Arcus GIBB I ADAM TEIXEIRA-LEITE hereby declare that this report has been prepared independently of any influence or prejudice as may be specified by the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs. Signed: Date: 22 May 2012

6 CONTENTS LIST OF FIGURES LIST OF TABLES LIST OF ANNEXURES ii ii iii 1 INTRODUCTION Background to the assessment, area of study and proposed development activity Scope of work Project team Wetlands and their Importance Relevant Legislation Pertaining to Wetlands Review of specific legislation requiring environmental authorisation applicable to the project Summary of legal requirements NEMA (National Environmental Management Act of 1998) NWA (National Water Act No 36 of 1998) National Forests Act No. 84 of 1998 (NFA) 11 2 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY FOLLOWED Data sources consulted Methods used Wetland Delineation Classification of Wetlands Existing Impacts and Catchment Context Functional Assessment Setting of Management Objectives for Wetlands Impact Assessment Identification of Mitigation Measures Assumptions and Limitations AQUATIC ASSESSMENT RESULTS General Classification of wetlands and riparian areas Catchment description and existing impacts Local Conservation Context Individual Site Assessments Site 1: Freshwater swamp forest system Site 2: Freshwater herbaceous wetland and swamp forest system (with impoundment/dam) Site 3: Invaded wooded riparian area Site 4: Largely natural wooded riparian area Recommended Management Objectives ASSESSMENT OF AQUATIC IMPACTS Assessment of Construction-Phase Impacts Assessment of Operation-Phase Impacts i

7 5 Mitigation Guidelines and Management Recommendations Construction-Phase Mitigation and Management Recommendations Operational-Phase Mitigation and Management Recommendations General Recommendations on Route Selection and Route Alignment 44 7 Wetland Rehabilitation Recommendations 45 8 REFERENCES 48 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Google Earth Map showing the location of the Assessment Site at Richards Bay, KwaZulu- Natal, South Africa... 2 Figure 2 Map showing the two potential route options: Option 1 (Yellow line) and Option 2 (Green line) proposed for the project, which proceed from Richards Bay residential area in the south-west to Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) in the north, with the four key assessment Sites identified during the assessment also shown Figure 3 Diagram representing the different zones of wetness found within a wetland (from DWAF, 2005a) Figure 4 Map showing the broader Mhlatuze wetland system delineated at a desktop level, with wetland catchment areas associated with the wetlands at Site 1 (orange) and Site 2 (purple) also shown Figure 5 Map showing the location of the project area relative to terrestrial conservation priorities identified in the systematic conservation plan for the Province (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2010) Figure 6 shows the distribution of threatened ecosystems in the study area. According the draft list of threatened ecosystems (SANBI & DEAT, 2009), the only area of significance to this study is the section of riparian forest at Site 4 which is classed as Maputaland Wooded Grassland and has a conservation status of Vulnerable Figure 6 Map showing the location of threatened ecosystems in the study area (SANBI & DEAT, 2009) Figure 7 Map showing the location of the study area relative to aquatic conservation priorities identified in the freshwater systematic conservation plan for the province (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2007) Figure 8 Map showing the location of the study area relative to recently identified National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas or NFEPA (CSIR, 2010) Figure 9 Maps showing the estimated permanent loss of wetland habitat at Site 1 (left) and Site 2 (right) due to road construction through these areas LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Details of study team... 5 Table 2. Information and data coverage s used to inform the wetland assessment... 0 ii

8 Table 3. Criteria used to inform the delineation of wetland habitat based on wetland vegetation (adapted from Macfarlane et al., 2009 and DWAF, 2005a)... 1 Table 4. Soil criteria used to inform wetland delineation using soil wetness as an indicator (after DWAF, 2005a)... 2 Table 5. Wetland classification to be applied to wetlands (after SANBI, 2009b)... 3 Table 6. Guideline for interpreting the magnitude of impacts on wetland integrity... 5 Table 7. Health categories used by WET-Health for describing the integrity of wetlands... 5 Table 8. Rating table used to rate EIS (Rountree, in prep.)... 7 Table 9. Management measures in the short-term... 7 Table 10. Criteria and numerical values for rating environmental impacts... 8 Table 11. Criteria and numerical values for rating environmental impacts... 8 Table 12. Confidence ratings used when assigning impact significance ratings... 9 Table 13. Summary of the classification of assessment sites Table 14. Summary of existing impacts within the wetland and broader catchment Table 15. Recommended management objectives for wetlands at Site 1 and Site Table 16. Summary of the aquatic impact assessment for the construction phase of the development Table 17. Summary of the aquatic impact assessment for the operational phase of the development Table 18. Summary of wetland habitat loss in terms of both physical area and functional loss expressed in hectare equivalents LIST OF ANNEXURES ANNEXURE A: Vegetation survey data of dominant/indicator species ANNEXURE B-1: Wetland delineation field assessment details ANNEXURE B-2: Wetland Delineation Map: Wetland at Site 1 ANNEXURE B-3: Wetland Delineation Map: Wetland at Site 2 ANNEXURE C-1: Results of the WET-Health assessment for the wetland at Site 1 ANNEXURE C-2: Results of the WET-Health assessment for the wetland at Site 2 ANNEXURE D-1: Results of the EIS assessment for the wetland at Site 1 ANNEXURE D-2: Results of the EIS assessment for the wetland at Site 2 ANNEXURE E-1: Detailed Assessment of Construction-Phase Related Impacts ANNEXURE E-2: Detailed Assessment of Operation-Phase Related Impacts iii

9 LIST OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS CSIR Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research. BPA Biodiversity Priority Area (from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Terrestrial Conservation Plan) Delineation the technique of establishing the boundary of an aquatic resource such as a wetland or riparian area. DEA Department of Environmental Affairs (formerly DEAT). Drain In the context of wetlands, refers to a natural or artificial feature such as a ditch or trench created for the purpose of removing surface and sub-surface water from an area (commonly used in agriculture). DWA Department of Water Affairs (formerly DWAF). Ecological Importance An expression of the importance of an environmental resource for the maintenance of biological diversity and ecological functioning on local and wider scales. Ecological Sensitivity A system s ability to resist disturbance and its capability to recover from disturbance once it has occurred. EIA Environmental Impact Assessment. EIS Ecological Importance & Sensitivity. EKZNW Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife General Authorisation Pertaining to Section 39 of the National Water Act (No. 26 of 1998), a General Authorisation is an authorization to use water without a license, provided that the water use is within the limits and conditions set out in the General Authorisation. GIS Geographical Information Systems. GPS Global Positioning System. Gulley (or erosion gulley) - A gully (commonly called a donga ) is an erosion landform or feature, created by running water eroding sharply into soil. Gullies generally resemble small ditches that can be several meters in depth and width. Gullying or gully erosion is the process by which gullies are formed. HGM Hydro-Geomorphic. NEMA National Environmental Management Act No. 107 of NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas, identified to meet national freshwater conservation targets (CSIR, 2010). NWA National Water Act No. 36 of PES Present Ecological State, referring to the current state or condition of an environmental resource in terms of its characteristics and reflecting change from its reference condition. SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute.3 0

10 Water course means a river or spring; a natural channel in which water flows regularly or intermittently: a wetland, lake or dam into which, or from which, water flows; and any collection of water which the Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, declare to be a watercourse, and a reference to a watercourse includes, where relevant, its bed and banks (NWA, 1998). Wetland - refers to land which is transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically covered with shallow water, and which land in normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil (NWA, 1998). 1

11 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the assessment, area of study and proposed development activity 1.2 Eco-Pulse Environmental Consulting Services was appointed by Arcus GIBB to undertake the assessment of wetlands along two individual route alignments associated with the proposed extension of the East Central Arterial Route to Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), in Richards Bay (Figure 1). The report findings will ultimately be used to inform the Basic Assessment currently being undertaken by Arcus GIBB for the linear development project. Figure 1Google Earth Map showing the location of the Assessment Site at Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa There are currently two route options that have been proposed, namely Option 1 and Option 2, which are approx. 10km and 11km in length respectively, as shown in Figure 2. The routes proceed mainly through an area under Eucalyptus sp forestry, with the forestry plantations owned by Sappi and Mondi. Option 1 proceeds along an existing fire-break that is some 20m wide with an existing sandy dirt track; whilst Option 2 proceeds to the south of the first option along an existing dirt road that is currently some 5-6m wide. Both route options share a common alignment for a few km s until 2

12 the route splits with Option 1 proceeding north and Option 2 proceeding south. The routes then rejoin to share a common alignment for a further few hundred metres before linking with the existing tarred road to RBM. Due to the presence of wetlands and drainage lines along the two route alignments, the proposed road development is likely to impact negatively on wetlands and riparian areas along either of these routes. Four key assessment sites (shown labelled in Figure 2) were identified as part of the wetland study, two of the sites are associated with wetlands (sites 1 and 2) with the other two being classified as riparian areas associated with drainage lines (sites 3 and 4). The aquatic resources identified form part of the Greater Mhlatuze Wetland System (Lake Mzingazi Zone) which has been assessed by Macfarlane et al. (2011) in their report to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife which looked at evaluating the health of KZN s priority wetlands. Figure 2Map showing the two potential route options: Option 1 (Yellow line) and Option 2 (Green line) with the four key assessment sites identified during the assessment also shown. 1.3 Scope of work The specialist wetland assessment aims to identify and delineate wetland and riparian areas affected by the proposed route alignments and then to assess the integrity/functionality as well as the ecological importance & sensitivity (EIS) of the wetlands. Aquatic impacts associated with both 3

13 the construction and operation phases of the project must also be identified and quantified, and appropriate mitigation measures identified. The detailed scope of work included the following: 1. Wetland delineation wetlands (and riparian areas) to be delineated primarily at a desktop level using available information with field verification to be undertaken along the proposed development routes (Option 1 and 2) according to methods within the Department of Water Affairs wetland delineation manual A Practical Field Procedure for Identification and Delineation of Wetland and Riparian Areas (DWAF, 2006). The objective of the wetland delineation will be to identify the outer edge of the temporary zone, marking the boundary between the wetland and adjacent terrestrial areas. Wetland delineation will look at a range of variables including topography, vegetation and soil sampling using a soil auger. 2. Description of the wetland environment including classification of wetland type, vegetation characteristics, hydrological and geomorphological functioning, observed fauna utilizing the wetlands (birds, etc.) as well as a description of existing impacts to wetland resources. 3. Wetland functional assessment including: Level 1 (rapid) Wet-Health assessment (Macfarlane et al., 2009): A rapid assessment methodology that uses a combination of desktop and field indicators to establish the current health or condition/integrity of wetlands. This will be used to inform an understanding of wetland integrity and ecological functioning in terms of system hydrology, vegetation and geomorphology. Wet-EIS (Ecological Importance and Sensitivity) assessment: This is a rapid assessment approach which aims to determine both the ecological importance of wetland resources as well as their sensitivity to ecological pressures and change. This would serve as an important component of the functional assessment and is of particular importance when rating the significance of potential impacts to wetlands. This will be informed by criteria common to the WET-Ecoservices assessment method that rates ecological goods and services (Kotze et al., 2009) as well as outcomes of the Wet-Health assessment. 4. Identification and description (scope, scale and significance) of impacts to the wetlands/riparian areas system associated with the proposed development of a road through the area. 5. Recommendation of mitigation measures to be applied during the construction and operational phase of the road development with the aim being to protect wetlands and riparian areas from development risks and impacts where possible. 6. Reporting - the final deliverable will be in the form of both an electronic specialist assessment report detailing the findings of the assessment and incorporating all maps and illustrations relevant to the assessment. The content of the report will be in line with the guidelines for specialist reports according to Section 32 (3) of the NEMA (1998) EIA Regulations 2010 as per Government Notice No , Government Gazette 18 June

14 1.4 Project team Details of project team members involved in the project are indicated below in Table 1: Table 1. Details of study team Team Member Role Details Douglas Macfarlane (Eco-Pulse) Adam Teixeira-Leite (Eco-Pulse) Project leader, review of project deliverables Field assessment, mapping and report writing Doug is a principal consultant at Eco-Pulse with a broad range of experience in wetland and natural resource management. He was responsible for managing the project, providing strategic direction and assisting with report finalisation and review. Adam is an Environmental Scientist with a BSc Honours degree in Environmental Science. Over the past 5 years he has worked extensively on numerous wetland projects requiring the delineation of wetlands and riverine areas; and assessment of wetland functional importance and sensitivity both in KwaZulu-Natal, the Western and Eastern Cape and Gauteng. He was responsible for undertaking the wetland delineation, fieldwork, functional assessment, impact assessment, mapping and reporting. 1.5 Wetlands and their Importance The word wetland is a family name given to a variety of ecosystems, ranging from rivers, springs, seeps and mires in the upper catchment, to midlands marshes, pans and floodplains, to coastal lakes, mangrove swamps and estuaries at the bottom of the catchment. These ecosystems all share a common primary driving force: water. Its prolonged presence in wetlands is a fundamental determinant of soil characteristics and plant and animal species composition. Any part of the landscape where water accumulates for long enough and often enough to influence the plants, animals and soils occurring in that area, is thus a wetland (DWAF 2005a). The National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) defines wetlands as: land which is transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically covered with shallow water, and which in normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soils. Wetlands must have one or more of the following attributes (DWAF 2005a): Wetland (hydromorphic) soils that display characteristics resulting from prolonged saturation The presence, at least occasionally, of water-loving plants (hydrophytes) A high water table that results in saturation at or near the surface, leading to anaerobic conditions developing in the top 50cm of the soil. The degradation of South African wetlands (with the Eastern Cape being no exception) is a concern now recognized by Government as requiring urgent action and the protection of wetlands is considered fundamental to the sustainable management of South Africa s water resources in the 5

15 context of the reconstruction and development of the country. At the heart of the need to protect wetlands, is the recognition that wetlands provide important benefits to society. They supply a suite of resources for people such as food, fuel, fibre and water. These are known as provisioning services. Many people obtain spiritual enrichment, aesthetic experiences or recreational benefits from wetlands. These benefits are referred to as cultural services. Many wetlands also provide opportunities for recreation, tourism, education and cultural practices amongst local users. They also provide a wide range of indirect benefits by regulating various ecological processes which contribute to a healthy environment. These include water purification through the assimilation of nutrients and removal of toxicants, erosion control and the regulation of climate. Finally, wetlands provide supporting services which are necessary for the production of other ecosystem services such as primary production, soil formation and nutrient cycling. 1.6 Relevant Legislation Pertaining to Wetlands In response to the importance of wetland systems, protection of wetlands has been campaigned at national and international levels. This has led to the development of various policies and promulgation of a range of legislation to help protect wetland systems. At an International level, wetland protection is emphasized through the following conventions and agreements: The RMASAR Convention Convention on Biological Diversity United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification New Partnership for Africa s Development (NEPAD) The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) Emphasis is placed on protecting wetlands and implementing initiatives to maintain or improve the state of wetland resources. Countries are to rehabilitate or restore degraded ecosystem through the formulation of appropriate strategies and plans; South Africa has responded to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification by developing a National Action Plan. The aim of the NAP is to implement at current and future policies that affect natural resource management and rural development, and establish partnerships between government departments, overseas development agencies, the private sector and NGOs Wetland conservation and sustainable use is one of the eight themes under the environment initiative. The Implementation Plan highlights actions that reduce the risk of flooding in drought-vulnerable countries by promoting the restoration and protection of wetlands and watersheds. At a National level, there are a plethora of policies and legislation dealing either directly or indirectly with wetland protection and management. These include: South African Constitution 108 of 1996 National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations This includes the right to have the environment protected through legislative or other means. This is a fundamentally important piece of legislation and effectively promotes sustainable development and entrenches principles such as the precautionary approach, polluter pays, and requires responsibility for impacts to be taken throughout the life cycle of a project. New regulations have been promulgated in terms of Chapter 5 of NEMA and were published on 18 June 2010 in Government Notice No. R In addition, listing notices (GN ) lists activities which are subject to an environmental assessment. A number of activities listed in the regulations have relevance to wetlands including a range of activities within 32m of a watercourse (which includes 6

16 wetlands). The National Water Act 36 of 1998 This Act imposes duty of care on all landowners, to ensure that water resources are not polluted. The following Clause in terms of the National Water Act is applicable in this case: 19 (1) An owner of land, a person in control of land or a person who occupies or uses the land on which (a) any activity or process is or was performed or undertaken; which causes, has caused or likely to cause pollution of a water resource, must take all reasonable measures to prevent any such pollution from occurring, continuing or recurring General Authorisations (GAs) National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act No 10 of 2004 Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1967 Chapter 4 of the National Water Act is of particular relevance to wetlands and addresses the use of water and stipulates the various types of licensed and unlicensed entitlements to the use water. Water use is defined very broadly in the Act and effectively requires that any activities with a potential impact on wetlands (within a distance of 500m upstream or downstream of a wetland) be authorized. These have been promulgated under the National Water Act and were published under GNR 398 of 26 March Any uses of water which do not meet the requirements of Schedule 1 or the GAs, require a license which should be obtained from the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. The intention of this Act is to protect species and ecosystems and promote the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources. It addresses aspects such as protection of threatened ecosystems and imposes a duty of care relating to listed alien invasive species. The intention of this Act is to control the over-utilization of South Africa s natural agricultural resources, and to promote the conservation of soil and water resources and natural vegetation. This includes wetland systems and requires authorizations to be obtained for a range of impacts associated with cultivation of wetland areas. At the Provincial level, there is little legislation. The following guidelines and ordinances are however relevant: Guidelines for development activities that may affect wetlands released by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs (2002) Natal Nature Conservation Ordinance 15 of 1974 & KwaZulu Nature Conservation Act 29 of 1992 This includes a draft set of norms and standards for the avoidance and mitigation of impacts to wetlands in urban areas. Makes extensive provision for protected areas (including private nature reserves) and protection of flora and fauna (including marine and freshwater fish). Other pieces of legislation that are also of some relevance to wetlands include: The National Forest Act 84 of 1998; The Natural Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999; The National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003; The Mountain Catchments Areas Act 62 of 1970 Any developments with a potential impact to wetland systems therefore typically need to be assessed to ensure that impacts are adequately minimized. 7

17 1.7 Review of specific legislation requiring environmental authorisation applicable to the project The activities associated with the construction of hardened road infrastructure through wetlands or within a close enough proximity to wetland habitat will trigger requirements for environmental authorisations and/or water use licensing according to NEMA (National Environmental Management Act of 1998) and the NWA (National Water Act of 1998) respectively. A breakdown of the applicable environmental legislation relating to wetlands and general activities associated with the construction of new roads is discussed in more detail below Summary of legal requirements A summary of the relevant environmental legal requirements for the proposed road development are included as follows: Activities Construction of new road infrastructure Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse (includes wetlands, rivers and streams) Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a water course (includes wetlands, rivers and streams) Removal of indigenous trees in riparian areas associated with natural forests Relevant Environmental Legislation NEMA (1998): GNR 544 of 2010 NWA (1998), Section 21 (c) NWA (1998), Section 21 (i) NFA (1998) Legislative Requirements Basic Assessment to be undertaken according to the NEMA EIA guidelines Water Use License Application Water Use License Application triggered; also need to delineate watercourse and riparian habitat using DWAF guidelines (DWAF, 2005a) Permission required to remove indigenous trees NEMA (National Environmental Management Act of 1998) According to GNR 544 of 18 June 2010 promulgated under NEMA, a Basic Assessment (BA) is likely to be required for road construction involving activity numbers 11, 39, 18, 22 and 47 contained in the Notice. With regards to wetlands (and other water courses including riparian areas), Activity number 11, 39 and 18 apply. Activity number 11 and 39 of GNR 544: The construction and / or expansion of: (i) canals; (ii) channels; (iii) bridges; (v) weirs; 8

18 (vi) bulk storm water outlet structures; (xi) infrastructure or structures covering 50 square metres or more where such construction occurs within a watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse, excluding where such construction will occur behind the development setback line. Activity number 18 of GNR 544: The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 5 cubic metres into, or the dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit, pebbles or rock from: (i) a watercourse NWA (National Water Act No 36 of 1998) According to the National Water Act, certain activities associated with the construction of road infrastructure that may affect wetlands/riparian areas trigger the need for a water use license through DWA. These legal requirements are discussed below. Water Use Licensing In addition to the environmental impact assessment requirements stipulated in NEMA, any road crossing a river or wetland triggers additional permitting from the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) where activities trigger Section 21 of the NWA (National Water Act No. 36 of 1998). According to the NWA, water use must be licensed unless its use is excluded. Application for a water use license, permit or authorisation must be made for the following listed activities under Section 21 of the NWA: Section 21 Water Uses Applicable to Project a Taking water from a water resource b Storing water c Impeding 1 or diverting 2 the flow of water in a watercourse 3 Potentially d Engaging in a stream flow reduction activity contemplated in section 36 (activities likely to reduce the availability of water in a watercourse to the Reserve, to meet international obligations, or to other water users significantly) e Engaging in a controlled activity identified as such in section 37(1) or declared under section 38(1) f Discharging waste or water containing waste into a water resource through a pipe, canal, sewer, sea outfall or other conduit g Disposing of waste in a manner which may detrimentally impact on a water resource h Disposing in any manner of water which contains waste from, or which has been heated in, any industrial or power generation process i Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a water course 3 Potentially j Removing, discharging or disposing of water found underground if it is necessary for the efficient continuation of an activity or for the safety of 9

19 k people Using water for recreational purposes Notes: 1 Impeding the flow - means the temporary or permanent obstruction or hindrance to water flow in a water course by a structure built either fully or partially in or across a watercourse (DWAF, 2009). 2 Diverting the flow refers to a temporary or permanent structure causing glow of water to be rerouted (DWAF, 2009)/ 3 Watercourse - for the purpose of Section 21 (c) and (i) water use, the watercourse encompasses the extent of riparian habitat (delineated according to DWAF, 2005a) or the 1:100 year floodline - whichever is greater (DWAF, 2009). General Authorisations under the NWA As a general authorisation under GNR 398 of 26 March 2004, a person who owns or lawfully occupies a property, or who has access to land on which the use of water takes place, may impede or divert the flow of water without the requirement of a specific water-use licence if the following criteria are met: It does not impact on a water resource or on another person s water use, property or land; There is no interference with the natural migration patterns of the aquatic biota and the sustainable economic ecological-functioning; The structure does not exceed a foundation width of 15m, a length of 200m or which occurs within a distance of 500m upstream or downstream of another structure that impedes or diverts flow on the same water course; The volume of flow is not reduced; The impedance or diversion does not detrimentally affect the quality of the water Strict erosion control measures are taken during and after the construction to ensure that no erosion takes place; All necessary measures are taken to stabilise the diversion structure and the surrounding area; and The surrounding area a person who uses water in terms of this must register this water-use as a general authorisation. A person who uses water in terms of the above must register this water use as a general authorisation. If any of the criteria listed above are not met, a license would be required. Also as a general authorisation under GNR 398 of 24 March 2004, a person who owns or lawfully occupies a property, or who has access to land on which the use of water takes place, may alter the beds, banks or characteristics of a water course if the following criteria are met: It is not within a distance of 500m upstream or downstream from the boundary of a wetland; 10

20 It is not within a distance of 500m upstream or downstream from the salt water mixing zone of the estuary; The natural migration patterns of aquatic biota and sustainable ecological functioning of the system are not interfered with; The alteration activity does not extend for more than 50m continuously or accumulative distance of 100m on that property or land measured along the water course; The volume of flow is not reduced; Strict erosion control measures are taken during and after construction to ensure no erosion of the bed and banks of the river takes place; and The water quality is not detrimentally affected. A person who uses water in terms of the above must register this water use as a general authorisation. If any of the criteria listed above are not met, a license would be required. Note: Activities close to wetlands (within a distance of 500m upstream or downstream from a wetland) are excluded from the General Authorisation for Section 21 (c) and (i) water use due to the complexity and potential cumulative effect of an impact on a wetland to the resource as a whole. Such activities are thus authorised through a water use license when they are likely to affect a wetland (DWAF, 2009) National Forests Act No. 84 of 1998 (NFA) The NFA prohibits the destruction of indigenous trees in any natural forest. Trees removed from riparian habitat in indigenous forest areas require permission in terms of the Act. 11

21 2 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY FOLLOWED 2.1 Data sources consulted The following data sources and GIS (Geographical Information Systems) spatial information provided in Table 2 was consulted to inform the assessment. The data type, relevance to the project and source of the information has been provided in Table 2, below. Table 2. Information and data coverage s used to inform the wetland assessment DATA/COVERAGE TYPE RELEVANCE SOURCE Available satellite Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, imagery/aerial photography Mapping of wetlands Surveyor Generals (Spot imagery and Office black&white orthophotos) Latest Google Earth imagery To supplement available aerial photography where needed Google Earth Online National Wetlands Map 3 To provide an indication of wetland extent in the broader project area (ie: downstream and SANBI (2010) upstream of the site) NFEPA River Condition Classes River condition ratings indicating the current condition of major rivers in the study area CSIR (2010) NFEPA wetlands coverage Shows location of FEPA wetland sites CSIR (2010) WET-Health tool Wet EIS tool EKZNW (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) Terrestrial Conservation Plan EKZNW (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) Freshwater Aquatic Conservation Plan EKZNW (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) KZN Wetland Layer EKZNW: Wet-Health Assessment of Priority Wetlands in KZN Range of literature Tool used to estimate the present state or health of wetland vegetation, hydrology and geomorphology. Tool used to assess wetland ecological importance and sensitivity Provides information on areas highlighted specifically for terrestrial biodiversity conservation in the Province. Provides information on areas highlighted specifically for aquatic biodiversity conservation in the Province. Desktop delineated wetlands layer showing wetlands in the province. Desktop level Wet-Health assessment done on the priority wetlands in KZN, including the Mhlatuze- Mzingazi wetland complex, relevant to this system. A range of literature on wetland plants and alien invasive species was consulted as well as literature related to construction and operational impacts and their mitigation. Macfarlane et al. (2009) Rowntree (in prep.) EKZNW (2011) EKZNW (2007) EKZNW (2011) Macfarlane et al., (2011) Various refer to full list of text References in Chapter 8 of this report 0

22 2.2 Methods used Wetland Delineation The outer boundary of wetlands was identified and delineated according to the Department of Water Affairs wetland delineation manual A Practical Field Procedure for Identification and Delineation of Wetland and Riparian Areas (DWAF, 2005a). Three specific wetland indicators were used in delineating the outer temporary zone of the wetland which includes: Terrain unit indicator A practical index used for identifying those parts of the landscape where wetlands are likely to occur based on the general topography of the area Wetland vegetation indicator Vegetation in an untransformed state is a useful guide in finding the boundary of a wetland as plant communities generally undergo distinct changes in species composition as one proceeds along the wetness gradient from the centre of a wetland towards adjacent terrestrial areas. An example of criteria used to classify wetland vegetation and inform the delineation of wetland habitat is provided in Table 3. Table 3. Criteria used to inform the delineation of wetland habitat based on wetland vegetation (adapted from Macfarlane et al., 2009 and DWAF, 2005a) Vegetation Temporary wetness zone Seasonal wetness zone Herbaceous Mixture of non-wetland species and hydrophilic plant species restricted to wetland areas Hydrophilic sedges and grasses restricted to wetland areas Permanent wetness zone Emergent plants including reeds and bulrushes; floating or submerged aquatic plants 1

23 Woody Mixture of non-wetland and hydrophilic species restricted to wetland areas Hydrophilic woody species restricted to wetland areas Hydrophilic woody species restricted to wetland areas with morphological adaptations to prolonged wetness (eg: prop roots) SYMBOL HYDRIC STATUS DESCRIPTION/OCCURRENCE ow Obligate wetland species Almost always grow in wetlands (>90% occurrence) fw f fd Facultative wetland species Facultative species Facultative dry-land species Usually grow in wetlands (67-99% occurrence) but occasionally found in non-wetland areas Equally likely to grow in wetlands (34-66% occurrence) and non-wetland areas Usually grow in non-wetland areas but sometimes grow in wetlands (1-34% occurrence) d Dryland species Almost always grow in drylands Soil wetness indicator According to the wetland definition used in the National Water Act (NWA, 1998), vegetation is the primary indicator which must be present under normal circumstances. However, in practice the soil wetness indicator (informed by investigating the top 50cm of wetland topsoil) tends to be the most important, and the other three indicators are used in a confirmatory role. The reason for this is that vegetation responds relatively quickly to changes in soil moisture and may be transformed by local impacts; whereas the soil morphological indicators are far more permanent and will retain the signs of frequent saturation (wetland conditions) long after a wetland has been transformed/drained (DWAF, 2005a). Thus the on-site assessment of wetland indicators focused largely on using soil wetness indicators, determined through soil sampling with a soil auger, with vegetation and topography being a secondary indicator. A Munsell Soil Colour Chart was used to ascertain soil colour values including hue, colour value and matrix chroma as well as degree of mottling in order to inform the identification of wetland (hydric) soils. Soil sampling points were recorded using a GPS (Global Positioning System) and captured using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for further processing. Aerial photography, field notes and sampling site coordinates were then used in combination to estimate and map the extent of wetlands. An example of soil criteria used to assess the presence of wetland soils is provided below in Table 4 as follows: Table 4. Soil criteria used to inform wetland delineation using soil wetness as an indicator (after DWAF, 2005a) Soil depth Temporary wetness zone Seasonal wetness zone Permanent wetness zone 2

24 Matrix chroma: 1-3 (Grey matrix <10%) Matrix chroma: 0-2 (Grey matrix >10%) Matrix chroma: 0-1 (Prominent grey matrix) 0 10cm Mottles: Few/None high chroma mottles Mottles: Many low chroma mottles Mottles: Few/None high chroma mottles Organic Matter: Low Organic Matter: Medium Organic Matter: High Sulphidic: No Sulphidic: Seldom Sulphidic: Often 30 50cm Matrix chroma: 0 2 Mottles: Few/Many As Above. As Above. Figure 3Diagram representing the different zones of wetness found within a wetland (from DWAF, 2005a) Classification of Wetlands Wetlands were classified according to HGM (hydro geomorphic) type using the National Wetland Classification System which was developed for the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI, 2009b). For the purposes of this study, wetlands have been classified using Level 3 and Level 4A classification levels as outlined in Table 5. Table 5. Wetland classification to be applied to wetlands (after SANBI, 2009b) 3

25 SLOPE LEVEL 3 Landscape Setting VALLEY FLOOR PLAIN BENCH (HILLTOP / SADDLE / SHELF) LEVEL 4A HGM Type Channel (river) Hillslope seep Channel (river) Channelled valley-bottom wetland Unchannelled valley-bottom wetland Floodplain wetland Depression Valleyhead seep Channel (river) Floodplain wetland Unchannelled valley-bottom wetland Depression Flat Depression Flat Existing Impacts and Catchment Context Using available information, existing impacts to the wetlands and within the delineated microcatchment were mapped and described. This is important in that such impacts affect the present ecological state of the wetland and need to be taken into consideration when assessing additional impacts associated with the proposed development Functional Assessment Wetland Integrity/Present Ecological State (WET-Health) WET-Health (Macfarlane et al, 2009) provides an appropriate framework for undertaking an assessment to indicate the functional importance of the wetland system that could be impacted by the proposed development. The assessment also helps to identify specific impacts thereby highlighting issues that should be addressed through mitigation and rehabilitation activities. For the purposes of this study, where no direct impacts to wetland areas are proposed, a Level 1 assessment was undertaken. While this is a rapid assessment, we regard it as adequate to inform an assessment of impacts associated with the proposed development. This approach relies on a combination of desktop and on-site indicators to assess various aspects of wetland condition, including: Hydrology: defined as the distribution and movement of water through a wetland and its soils. 4

26 Geomorphology: defined as the distribution and retention patterns of sediment within the wetland. Vegetation: defined as the vegetation structural and compositional state. Each of these modules follows a broadly similar approach and is used to evaluate the extent to which anthropogenic changes have impacted upon wetland functioning or condition. While the impacts considered vary considerably across each module, a standardized scoring system is applied to facilitate the interpretation of results (Table 6). Scores range from 0 indicating no impact to a maximum of 10 which would imply that impacts had totally destroyed the functioning of a particular component. The reader is encouraged to refer back to the tables below to help interpret the results presented in the site assessment (section 3.2). Table 6. Guideline for interpreting the magnitude of impacts on wetland integrity IMPACT CATEGORY None Small Moderate Large Serious Critical DESCRIPTION No discernible modification or the modification is such that it has no impact on this component of wetland integrity. Although identifiable, the impact of this modification on this component of wetland integrity is small. The impact of this modification on this component of wetland integrity is clearly identifiable, but limited. The modification has a clearly detrimental impact on this component of wetland integrity. Approximately 50% of wetland integrity has been lost. The modification has a highly detrimental effect on this component of wetland integrity. Much of the wetland integrity has been lost but remaining integrity is still clearly identifiable. The modification is so great that the ecosystem processes of this component of wetland integrity are almost totally destroyed, and 80% or more of the integrity has been lost. SCORE Impact scores obtained for each of the modules reflect the degree of change from natural reference conditions. These scores are subtracted from 10 to obtain an intactness or health score for the wetland system evaluated. Resultant health scores fall into one of six health categories (A-F) on a gradient from unmodified/natural (Category A) to severe/complete deviation from natural (Category F) as depicted in Table 7. This classification is consistent with DWAF categories used to evaluate the present ecological state of aquatic systems. Table 7. Health categories used by WET-Health for describing the integrity of wetlands HEALTH CATEGORY DESCRIPTION RANGE A Unmodified, natural

27 B Largely natural with few modifications. A slight change in ecosystem processes is discernable and a small loss of natural habitats and biota may have taken place C Moderately modified. A moderate change in ecosystem processes and loss of natural habitats has taken place but the natural habitat remains predominantly intact D E F Largely modified. A large change in ecosystem processes and loss of natural habitat and biota and has occurred. The change in ecosystem processes and loss of natural habitat and biota is great but some remaining natural habitat features are still recognizable. Modifications have reached a critical level and the ecosystem processes have been modified completely with an almost complete loss of natural habitat and biota An overall wetland health score was calculated by weighting the scores obtained for each module and combining them to give an overall combined score using the following formula: Overall health rating = [(Hydrology*3) + (Geomorphology*2) + (Vegetation*2)] / 7 This overall score assists in providing an overall indication of wetland health/functionality which can in turn be used for recommending appropriate management measures. It should be noted that while WET-Health is the most appropriate technique currently available to undertake assessments of this nature, it is nonetheless a rapid assessment tool that relies on qualitative information and expert judgment. While the tool has been subjected to an initial peer review process, the methodology is still being tested and will be refined in subsequent versions. Wet-Health datasheets will be made available to Arcus GIBB on request Wetland Ecological Importance and Sensitivity An assessment of the importance and sensitivity of wetland systems using the Wetland EIS (Ecological Importance and Sensitivity) assessment tool (Rountree, in prep) was undertaken using the outcomes of the WET-Health assessment and other valuable information gathered in the field as well as available desktop information. The tool includes an assessment of three components: Biodiversity support Landscape scale importance Sensitivity of the wetland to floods and water quality changes The maximum score for these components was taken as the importance rating for the wetland which is rated using Table 8, below. 6

28 Table 8. Rating table used to rate EIS (Rountree, in prep.) Rating None, Rating = 0 Low, Rating =1 Moderate, Rating =2 High, Rating =3 Very high, Rating =4 Explanation Rarely sensitive to changes in water quality/hydrological regime One or a few elements sensitive to changes in water quality/hydrological regime Some elements sensitive to changes in water quality/hydrological regime Many elements sensitive to changes in water quality/ hydrological regime Very many elements sensitive to changes in water quality/ hydrological regime Setting of Management Objectives for Wetlands 2.4Setting of management objectives for wetlands Management and mitigation measures will need to be employed to ensure that water resources attain the desired future class. This should be informed by the management objective for the water resource which, in the absence of classification, is based on the Present Ecological State (PES) of the water resource (PES from WET-Health assessment) and the Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) of the wetland (DWAF, 2007). The management objective for the wetland will thus be either to improve the ecological class or to maintain the ecological class as indicated in Table 9 below. Table 9. Management measures in the short-term EIS Very high High Moderate Low A Pristine A Maintain A Maintain A Maintain A Maintain B Natural A Improve A/B Improve B Maintain B Maintain PES C Good B Improve B/C Improve C Maintain C Maintain D Fair C Improve C/D Improve D Maintain D Maintain E/F Poor D Improve E/F Improve E/F Maintain E/F Maintain 7

29 2.2.6 Impact Assessment The information gained from the functional integrity and EIS assessments was used to inform an assessment of the likelihood and significance of potential impacts associated with the proposed road construction. For the purposes of this assessment, the quantification/rating of identified environmental impacts was informed to a large degree by the guidelines specified in the Guideline Document on EIA Regulations of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT, 1998). Impacts were assessed based on two scenarios: (i) in the absence of any mitigation; and (ii) where proposed mitigation and management measures have been implemented. The nature of each identified environmental impact was described as well as the impact status (positive, negative or neutral effect). Impacts were then rated through the application of numerical values to the five rating criteria of Table 10 which were used in conjunction with the following equation to obtain a rating of impact significance (S) as described in Table 11. ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE (S) = (M + E + R + D) * P Table 10. Criteria and numerical values for rating environmental impacts CRITERIA Magnitude (M) Extent (E) Reversibility (R) Duration (D) Probability (P) Description Degree of alteration to the affected receiving environment (potential for causing either negative or positive effects) Geographical extent of the impact to the receiving environment Inherent ability of the affected receiving environment to rehabilitate or restore after change has occurred due to impact Length of permanence of the impact on the receiving environment Likelihood of the impact occurring in the absence of pertinent environmental management measures or mitigation SCORE High Very low Medium (environment Low (environment al functions (no continues to are altered so environmenta function but that they l functions are in a modified temporarily or affected) manner) permanently Very High cease) Site only Local Regional National Reversible (recovery without rehabilitatio n) Immediate Internation al - Recoverable - Irreversible Short term (0-5 yrs) Medium term (5-15 yrs) Long term (>15 years but where the impact ceases after operation) Permanen t Improbable Low Medium High Definite Table 11. Criteria and numerical values for rating environmental impacts 8

30 Significance Score Impact Class Description 4 to 20 Low 21 to 40 Medium-Low 41 to 60 Medium 61 to 80 Moderate-High 81 to 100 High Minimal disruption of ecosystem functions during and after construction. Some disruption during construction through change in habitat but no loss of function or species. Some changes in function and habitat such as stream bed disturbance and habitat damage over short to medium term. Localized ecological functions altered, damage to habitat and species loss over medium to long term. Change in or loss of ecosystem function, permanent loss of habitat and local species loss. A confidence rating was also given to the impacts rated in accordance with Table 12 below: Table 12. Confidence ratings used when assigning impact significance ratings Level of confidence Very Low Low Medium High Very High Contributing factors affecting confidence A very low confidence level is attributed to a low level of available project/environmental information and little understanding of the receiving environment. A low confidence level is attributed to a moderate level of available project information and somewhat limited data and/or understanding of the receiving environment. The confidence level is medium, being based on specialist understanding and previous experience of the likelihood of impacts in the context of the development project with a relatively large amount of available project information and data related to the receiving environment. The confidence level is high, being based on quantifiable information gathered in the field. The confidence is very high, being based on quantitative data gathered in the field and subject to further analysis Identification of Mitigation Measures Once impacts had been identified and rated, site-specific mitigation and rehabilitation measures were proposed in order to minimize the potential impact of the proposed package plant operation on the receiving biophysical environment. Mitigation measures were identified and designed for each environmental impact specifically, looking first and foremost at methods for preventing impacts altogether before looking at impact reduction and the need for remediation of affected environments and according to the following mitigation hierarchy: PREVENTION REDUCTION REMEDIATION COMPENSATION 9

31 Specialist working knowledge and experience as well as best practice guidelines and specification found in DWAF (2005b), DWAF (2005c) and ethekwini Municipality (2009) were consulted in compiling the recommended mitigation measures for this project. 2.3 Assumptions and Limitations The following limitations and assumptions are deemed to be applicable to the assessment undertaken: The wetland boundary must be identified and classified along a transitional gradient from saturated through to terrestrial soils which makes it difficult to identify the exact boundary of the wetland. The boundaries mapped in this specialist report therefore represent the approximate boundary of these wetlands as evaluated by an assessor familiar and well-practiced in the delineation technique. It is important to note that delineation was made difficult in certain areas by the disturbed nature of the site; where in places, sedimentary fill, hardened road surfaces and altered soil surfaces made soil sampling difficult. The wetland boundary in these areas is therefore an approximate representation of the wetland habitat thought to naturally occur in these areas prior to infilling and transformation. In addition, soil wetness indicators in some of the sandy coastal soils encountered were largely absent, and in these areas, delineation was based instead on vegetation indicators, hydrological indicators and topography. Wetland boundaries are based largely on the GPS locations of soil sampling points. GPS accuracy will therefore affect the accuracy rating of mapped sampling points and therefore wetland boundaries. A Garmin Oregon 550 GPS was used which has an estimated accuracy rating of 5metres. Using a GPS in areas of swamp forest where dense canopy cover was encountered (specifically at Site 1) is likely to have resulted in reduced GPS accuracy (decreased satellite reception) and hence a reduced level of accuracy in terms of the mapping of wetland boundaries in these areas. The impact assessment was informed largely by information provided by the client pertaining to the development in conjunction with information gained from the site visit, from which potential impacts were identified and rated, largely at a qualitative level. The Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) analysis did not specifically address the finer-scale biological aspects of the wetlands such as the range of fauna (such as amphibians, birds and invertebrates) occurring. It should be noted that while WET-Health (Macfarlane et al., 2009) is the most appropriate technique currently available to undertake assessments of wetland condition/integrity, it is 10

32 nonetheless a rapid assessment tool that relies on qualitative information and expert judgment. While the tool has been subjected to an initial peer review process, the methodology is still being tested and will be refined in subsequent versions. The WET-Health assessment was undertaken at a Level 1 (rapid assessment) which is a rather broad level assessment. Although field-data was collected for each wetland site, data collection focused mainly on the proposed crossing site and extended meters upstream and downstream of the proposed road centre line. Assumptions based on existing literature on the integrity of the broader wetland systems and riparian areas were made so as to rate the entire broad unit in terms of Present Ecological State as well as Ecological Importance and Sensitivity. Very little literature was available on the species composition and structure of riparian forested areas and swamp forest prior to forestry occurring in the catchment. As such, it was difficult to establish a baseline for the types of wetland/swamp forest communities in the area prior to any catchment related impacts occurring (particularly around altered catchment hydrology). It is likely that wetlands and riparian areas may have undergone some degree of modification to vegetation composition and structure; however, visually these areas appear relatively intact and natural in most instances. Where riparian forest communities appeared intact, it was also assumed that only a minor change in structure and composition has taken place within these units. 11

33 3.1 General 3 AQUATIC ASSESSMENT RESULTS Classification of wetlands and riparian areas A total of four freshwater aquatic ecosystem assessment sites were identified during the assessment, comprising two wetland systems (sites 1 & 2) and two riparian areas (sites 3 & 4). The location of the assessment sites and extent of wetlands/riparian areas within the context of the broader Lake Mzingazi wetland system are shown in Figure 4 with details summarized in Table 13, below. Table 13. Summary of the classification of assessment sites 1-4 Assessment Site Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Hydro-Geomorphic Classification Unchannelled valley bottom wetland Unchannelled valley bottom wetland with dam Drainage line/riparian (invaded) Drainage line/riparian (invaded) Classification by Vegetation Type Freshwater swamp forest Freshwater alluvial wetland/swamp forest Coastal Riparian Forest Coastal Riparian Forest Area (ha) Catchment Area (ha) Associated Road Option , & Note: A number of additional wetland and riparian arms extending northwards from the Lake Mzingazi Zone (wetland complex forming part of the Greater Mhlatuze Wetland System) were identified at a desktop level using available aerial photography and the outputs of the KZN priority wetlands Wethealth assessment (Macfarlane et al., 2011). The desktop-delineated boundary of these additional wetlands/riparian areas was found to occur generally within a distance of m from the proposed road development for Options 1 and 2. Based on the NEMA: EIA Regulations (2010), these areas fall well outside the 32m set-back line and therefore do not warrant further assessment. It is also unlikely that the localized impacts attributed to the proposed road development will incur any significant threat/impact to these areas, especially when the generic mitigation measures provided in this report are applied to the development site. These wetland areas were therefore excluded from the detailed aquatic assessment contained in this report. 12

34 Figure 4Map showing the broader Mhlatuze wetland system delineated at a desktop level, with wetland catchment areas associated with the wetlands at Site 1 (orange) and Site 2 (purple) also shown Catchment description and existing impacts Two separate catchment areas have been established for the wetland at Site 1 and the wetland at Site 2 (shown in Figure 4, above). The catchment areas are dominated by forestry plantations (Eucalyptus sp) with a network of dirt roads used to access these areas, with remaining natural areas restricted largely to the numerous drainage lines and wetland areas characterizing the region. The catchment for Site 1 is considerably larger than that of Site 2, and comprises a number of smaller wetland/riparian feeder arms that drain into the larger wetland/swamp forest associated with Site 1. Extensive areas of the catchment have been transformed and are now dominated by forestry plantations, with a few areas under hardened permanent infrastructure that include the Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) site as well as the tarred link road connecting to the RBM site from Richards Bay central. A summary of the existing wetland impacts occurring within the wetlands catchment areas, as well as localized impacts within and adjacent to the actual wetlands themselves, has been provided in Table 14, below. 13

35 Table 14. Summary of existing impacts within the wetland and broader catchment EXISTING LANDUSE/IMPACTS OCCURRING WITHIN THE WETLANDS AND THE BROADER CATCHMENT Tarred and Dirt Roads Roads crossing the wetlands have resulted in a loss of habitat and have also restricted or impeded the movement of water through the system. Although culverts have been established beneath these roads, areas of shallow flooding have occurred on the upstream side of roads (eg. Site 1), particularly where culverts are at a level where low flows are restricted from moving downstream (eg. Site 2). In some instances, flooding is too deep for emergent vegetation to grow (in the case of the impoundment at Site 2 for example). Forestry plantations Eucalyptus sp forestry plantations, owned and managed by Mondi and Sappi, cover much of the catchment areas for the four sites assessed. Gum plantations generally affect catchment hydrology by utilizing vast quantities of water and also affecting the timing and frequency of flows. This in turn affects the quantity of water reaching the wetlands downstream as well as the nature of storm flows. Alien plants Invasive alien plants and weeds generally accompany the disturbance associated with commercial forestry activities, which creates opportunities for these species to colonize forest margins and invade wetland areas and riparian zones. Although the wetland areas assessed show minor signs of exotic plant invasion, there is definitely the threat of increased invasion into areas should additional disturbance occur. Cattle grazing Although cattle were observed in the area of assessment, cattle grazing in wetland areas appear limited. Cattle have a very minor impact on vegetation caused by consumption of grasses and sedges as well as trampling of soil and vegetation in wetland areas. 14

36 Soil erosion The fine, sandy coastal soils that characterize the area are inherently prone to soil erosion. Areas of bare soil identified during the field visit had been stabilized with sandbags but still showed signs of high mobility. The potential threat of soil erosion and the associated transportation of sediments to downstream wetland areas is therefore considered a relatively high risk. Infrastructure development This is associated with the Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) site and tarred link road located in the catchment areas of the wetland at Site 1. Hardened surfaces promote increased runoff as infiltration potential is reduced, affecting the volume and nature of flows reaching downstream wetlands. Image source: Local Conservation Context The wetlands and riparian areas at Sites 1-4 occur largely outside of urban areas, within a broad area that has been transformed by local forestry activities. Although many of the wetland areas and drainage lines have been retained and are relatively well-buffered by indigenous coastal forest vegetation, the level of transformation of terrestrial areas in particular, has been great. This is highlighted in the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Terrestrial Conservation Plan (Figure 5), which shows broad areas of the catchment that have been almost totally (100%) transformed. Remaining natural areas occur largely around the Mhlatuze-Mzingazi wetland complex, and specifically associated with the main body of the wetland system at assessment Site 1. The swamp forest wetland here has been identified as a combination of a Biodiversity Priority Area 1 (irreplaceable areas considered critical for meeting Provincial conservation targets for one or more of the biodiversity features contained within) and a Biodiversity priority Area 3 (not critical for meeting Provincial Conservation targets but represent the best localities out of a potentially larger selection of available areas that are optimally located to meet conservation targets whilst avoiding competing land uses as far as possible). The primary features driving the conservation importance of these areas that have been identified in the conservation plan (EKZNW, 2010) include the presence of Ficus trichopoda swamp forest, freshwater wetlands and the species Kniphofia leucocephala - white wetland poker. According to the Red Data Plant List (SANBI, 2009a), K. leucocephala is endemic to the grasslands between Richards Bay and St Lucia and has Critically Endangered status in South Africa. The species is known only from vleis or wetlands in low-lying coastal grassland in the Richards Bay area of KwaZulu-Natal 15

37 and this plant was not encountered within the wetland areas assessed during the field survey undertaken in this study. Figure 5 Map showing the location of the project area relative to terrestrial conservation priorities identified in the systematic conservation plan for the Province (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2010). Figure 6 shows the distribution of threatened ecosystems in the study area. According the draft list of threatened ecosystems (SANBI & DEAT, 2009), the only area of significance to this study is the section of riparian forest at Site 4 which is classed as Maputaland Wooded Grassland and has a conservation status of Vulnerable. 16

38 Figure 6Map showing the location of threatened ecosystems in the study area (SANBI & DEAT, 2009) The importance of water resources such as wetlands in meeting national freshwater conservation targets and provincial conservation targets is illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. In terms of aquatic resource conservation priorities, the study area has been classified as Available according to the EKZN Wildlife Freshwater Conservation Plan (2007), as shown in Figure 7. 17

39 Figure 7 Map showing the location of the study area relative to aquatic conservation priorities identified in the freshwater systematic conservation plan for the province (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2007). The importance of water resources such as wetlands in meeting national freshwater conservation targets is illustrated in Figure 8. FEPAs or Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA project CSIR, 2010) need to remain in a good condition in order to achieve biodiversity goals and protect water resources for human use. According to the GIS spatial layer (Figure 8), the wetlands at Site 1 and Site 2 are not considered to be FEPAs; however, the larger wetland system downstream of Site 1 is considered a FEPA wetland. Driver et al. (2011) emphasise the need for FEPAs to be conserved and their ecological condition improved where these have been degraded. In addition, the catchment area for the swamp forest system at Site 1 has been classified as a FEPA sub-quaternary catchment area that should be managed in such a way as to conserve the ecological condition of these areas (Driver et al., 2011). 18

40 Figure 8 Map showing the location of the study area relative to recently identified National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas or NFEPA (CSIR, 2010). 19

41 3.2 Individual Site Assessments Site 1: Freshwater swamp forest system General details Name: Site 1: Freshwater swamp forest Road Option: 1 & 2 Type: Wetland - swamp forest Classification: Unchannelled valley bottom wetland, natural swamp forest Slope: Relatively uniform, gentle slope Wetland area: 82.4 ha Catchment: Transformed forestry and hardened surfaces/infrastructure Existing impacts and threats: Dirt road across wetland alters hydrology (flow patterns), pressure from disturbance along perimeter caused by forestry and tarred road (threat of invasive alien plants), forestry activities in the catchment alter catchment and wetland hydrology. Vegetation General Description: Red Data List Status: Species present: Overview: Naturally occurring swamp forest dominated by freshwater mangroves (Barringtonia racemosa) and swamp figs (Ficus trichopoda). Plant species considered Least Threatened according to Red Data List (SANBI, 2009a). Refer to Appendix A for full species list and conservation status. Botanical name Common name Status Density Barringtonia racemosa Freshwater mangrove Indigenous Very High Ficus trichopoda Swamp fig Indigenous High Phoenix reclinata Wild date palm Indigenous Low Macaranga capensis Wild/Swamp poplar Indigenous Medium Voacanga thouarsii Wild frangipani Indigenous Medium Hibiscus tiliaceus Swamp hibiscus Indigenous Medium Stenochlaena tenuifloia Giant vine fern Indigenous High Cissampelos torulosa Creeper Indigenous Medium Smilax anceps Thorny creeper Indigenous Low-Medium Thelypteris dentata Downy maiden fern Indigenous Low Syzygium cordatum Water berry Indigenous Low-Medium Phragmites australis Common reed Indigenous Very Low Rauvolfia caffra Quinine tree Indigenous Low Impomoea cairica Wild morning glory Exotic Low-Medium Present Ecological State (PES - WET-Health) The wetland system has been moderately modified, with the main contributing factor being the significant alteration of wetland hydrology (score of 7.0 significant modification). This is largely associated with a reduction in water inputs and reduced magnitude and frequency of flood peaks that is associated with forestry activities in the wetlands catchment. Geomorphologically, the system remains largely natural in term of geomorphological condition and process, with little indication of active erosion or deposition (score of 0.1). The vegetation is also largely intact and natural within the areas assessed with a modification score of 1.3. Summary data: WET-Health Module PES Score PES Class Hydrology 7.0 E significantly modified Geomorphology 0.1 A natural Vegetation 1.3 B largely natural OVERALL PES 3.39 C - moderately modified Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) 20

42 Overview: Summary data: The wetland attains a moderate EIS class. In term of ecological importance, the system is important mainly from a biodiversity and hydrological/functional point of view. Hydrologically, the system functions to store and supply water, regulate water to downstream areas, provide erosion and flood control due to the dense robust vegetation and low gradient of the wetland floor; as well as supplying a waterpurifying service through the uptake of nutrients and toxicants by wetland plants to a moderate-high degree. Direct human benefits such as education and tourism are potentially offered to a moderate-large degree. The wetland is generally poorly suited in terms of supplying Direct Human Benefits such as harvestable resources other than wood for construction/firewood, also being largely unsuitable for agriculture due to the level of wetness. In terms of the level of sensitivity of the system, this is considered moderate as the general vegetation type is not of particularly high conservation significance (not endangered or rare) and the fact that the system is likely to be moderately sensitive to changes in system hydrology and water quality. Component assessed Ecological Importance & sensitivity Hydrological / Functional Importance Importance of Direct Human Benefits Overall Importance Score Score 2.67 (Medium-High) 2.90 (Medium-High) 1.92 (Low-Medium) 2.49 Importance & Sensitivity Class Medium Specific Observations and Recommendations The existing dirt road across this system is roughly 5-6m wide. The road should ideally be extended in one direction so as to limit the zone of impact to one particular side and localised area of the wetland. It is recommended that the road be extended in an upstream direction, leaving the lower edge of the existing dirt road as the edge of layer works for the new road. This will limit erosion and sedimentation by localizing impacts at the upstream side. Existing culverts beneath the dirt road are currently inadequate to convey water to the downstream wetland area, and could pose the risk of possibly flooding the road during heavy rainfall. A single culvert is currently operating, with the second in a damaged/inoperable state. At least three equidistant culverts should be installed along the wetland crossing at wetland/ground level. Where indigenous trees such as freshwater mangroves and swamp figs would be disturbed or destroyed by the development, these should be identified and retained/transplanted prior to construction commencing. Soil erosion is likely to be of concern here due to the nature of the sandy soils in the area, which are prone to erosion. Specific focus should be given to erosion control in the vicinity of the wetland. The width of the construction zone to be cleared along the road corridor should be minimized as far as possible across this sensitive wetland environment. Photo s 21

43 Photo 1. Freshwater mangroves and swamp figs are dominant in the swamp forest which was inundated with water during the site visit. Site 1 Map Photo 2. Existing dirt road dissecting the swamp forest system. A single culvert allows flows through the system. 22

44 3.2.2 Site 2: Freshwater herbaceous wetland and swamp forest system (with impoundment/dam) General details Name: Site 2: Freshwater herbaceous wetland and swamp forest Road Option: 2 Type: Wetland freshwater alluvial wetland with swamp forest habitat Classification: Unchannelled valley bottom wetland, natural wetland Slope: Gentle upstream of existing dirt road (dam area), relatively steep slope downstream of dirt road Wetland area: 9.5 ha Catchment: Transformed forestry Existing Dirt road crosses wetland, small dam/impoundment created upstream of existing impacts and dirt road has affected wetland hydrology, forestry activities in the catchment alter threats: catchment and wetland hydrology, threat of invasive alien plants caused by disturbance along wetland perimeter, cattle grazing on perimeter of wetland. Vegetation General Description: Red Data List Status: Species present: Overview: Summary data: Naturally occurring alluvial wetland, open water dam/pond with herbaceous wetland plants surrounded by coastal forest with freshwater swamp forest dominated by freshwater mangroves and swamp figs downstream of dam. Plant species considered Least Threatened according to Red Data List (SANBI, 2009a). Refer to Appendix A for full species list and conservation status. Botanical name Common name Status Density Barringtonia racemosa Freshwater mangrove Indigenous High Ficus trichopoda Swamp fig Indigenous High Phoenix reclinata Wild date palm Indigenous Low Voacanga thouarsii Wild frangipani Indigenous Medium Hibiscus tiliaceus Swamp hibiscus Indigenous Medium Stenochlaena tenuifloia Giant vine fern Indigenous High Smilax anceps Thorny creeper Indigenous Low-Medium Thelypteris dentata Downy maiden fern Indigenous Low Syzygium cordatum Water berry Indigenous Low Phragmites australis Common reed Indigenous Very Low Nymphaea sp Pond lily Indigenous Medium Cyperus prolifer Dwarf/pygmy papyrus Indigenous Medium Typha capensis Bulrush Indigenous Low Solanum mauritianum Bugweed/Bugtree Exotic Very Low Present Ecological State (PES - WET-Health) In its current state, the system has been moderately modified, with the main contributing factor being the significant alteration of wetland hydrology (score of 7.5 significant modification having occurred). This is largely associated with a reduction in water inputs and reduced magnitude and frequency of flood peaks that is associated with forestry activities in the wetlands catchment as well as the within-wetland impact associated with the existence of an artificial pond/dam upstream of the dirt road that has flooded back a significant portion of the wetland at this location. Geomorphologically, the system remains natural, with no major signs of active erosion or deposition (score of 1.0). The vegetation is also largely intact with few impacts apart from the increased cover of open water due to the dam/pond, accounting for a modification score of 1.5 largely natural. WET-Health Module PES Score PES Class Hydrology 7.5 E significantly modified Geomorphology 1.0 A natural Vegetation 1.5 B largely natural OVERALL PES 3.93 C moderately modified Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) 23

45 Overview: Summary data: The wetland obtains a moderate EIS class. The system is important mainly from a biodiversity and hydrological/functional point of view as it provides a diversity of habitat types including intact herbaceous wetland and swamp forest, open water (pond) and coastal forest (terrestrial buffer zone). Hydrologically, the system functions locally to store and supply water in the form of the freshwater pond/dam upstream of the dirt road, regulate water to downstream areas and provide a water purifying role in the environment by assimilating nutrients and toxicants to a moderate degree. Direct human benefits (education, tourism, cultivation, etc.) are provided to a low degree due to the location away from the main road, the lack of existing educational interest in the site and the permanently wet nature of the most of the wetland which makes it largely unsuitable for agriculture. In terms of the level of sensitivity of the system, this is considered moderate due to the low conservation significance of the dominant vegetation types (locally common, not endangered status) and the fact that the system is likely to be only moderately sensitive to changes in system hydrology. Component assessed Ecological Importance & sensitivity Hydrological / Functional Importance Importance of Direct Human Benefits Overall Importance Score Score 2.48 (Medium) 2.26 (Medium) 1.5 (Low) 2.08 EIS Class Medium Specific Observations and Recommendations The dam/impoundment located on the upstream side of the existing dirt road should be retained as a significant ecological feature, as it supports a range of fauna and flora. The road should therefore be extended in a downstream direction, using the existing upstream road edge as the edge of the new road development footprint (edge of layer works). The existing culvert should be retained where possible. Where a new culvert would be required, this should be situated at the same height as the existing culvert so that the dam does not drain. Indigenous trees within the swamp forest section downstream of the existing road should be retained or transplanted prior to construction where these would be disturbed or destroyed. The indigenous forest surrounding the wetland and dam acts as an important bufferzone between the wetland and forestry areas and care should be taken not to unduly disturb this area. Soil erosion is likely to be of concern here due to sandy soils in the area being generally prone to erosion. Specific focus on erosion control should occur in the vicinity of this site. The width of the construction zone to be cleared along the road corridor should be minimized as far as possible across this sensitive wetland system. Photo s 24

46 Photo 1. View of the dam upstream of an existing dirt road, with open water habitat, pond lilies and dwarf papyrus dominant. Photo 2. Seasonal zone on the fringes of the open water dam with freshwater mangroves and swamp figs. Photo 3. Indigneous coastal forest acting as a funcitonal bufferzone around the wetland area. Photo 4. Culvert beneath the dirt road allowign water to pass through the structure during high flows. The height of the pipe is sufficient that the pond/dam remains permanently full throughout the year. Site 2 Map 25

47 3.2.3 Site 3: Invaded wooded riparian area General details Name: Site 3: Invaded riparian area Road Option: 2 Type: Riparian area - drainage line Classification: Riverine Slope: Moderately steep below existing dirt road Wetland area: N/A Catchment: Transformed forestry and infrastructure (RBM) Existing impacts and threats: Dirt road crosses drainage line, forestry activities in the catchment hydrology, invasive alien plants and weeds in riparian area, threat of sedimentation and further invasive alien plants caused by disturbance related to forestry activities. Vegetation General Natural riverine/coastal forest with alien invasive plants Description: Red Data List Status: Species present: 26 Vegetation types considered Least Threatened according to Red Data List (SANBI, 2009a). Refer to Appendix A for full species list and conservation status. Botanical name Common name Status Density Phoenix reclinata Wild date palm Indigenous Low Stenochlaena tenuifloia Giant vine fern Indigenous Medium Smilax anceps Thorny creeper Indigenous Low Thelypteris dentata Downy maiden fern Indigenous Low Syzygium cordatum Water berry Indigenous Medium Rauvolfia caffra Quinine tree Indigenous Medium

48 Acacia karroo Thorn tree Indigenous Low Albizia adianthifloia Flat-crown Indigenous Medium-High Stelitzia nicolai Natal wild banana Indigenous Medium Pteridium aquilinum Bracken Indigenous (weed) Low-Medium Eucalyptus sp Gum tree Exotic Low (immature species) Brachylaena discolor Coastal silver oak Indigenous Low Conyza canadensis Horseweed fleabane Exotic Medium Imperata cylindrica Cotton wool grass Indigenous Low Paspalum distichum Water couch grass Exotic Low-Medium Cyperus articulatus Flat sedge Indigenous Low-Medium Xanthium stumarium Large cocklebur Exotic Medium-High Specific Observations and Recommendations The section of this drainage line upstream of the existing dirt road is in a poor condition, being dominated by alien plants and ruderal weeds. On the downstream side of the existing dirt road, on the other hand, the drainage line is largely natural riparian coastal forest dominated by a range of indigenous tree species that should be conserved. It is recommended that the road be aligned so that the lower edge of the layer works is above the section of intact riparian zone (ie. in line with the lower/downstream edge of the existing road). The road can then be extended upstream into the section of invaded riparian area that has a lower ecological significance. Indigenous trees (Acacia sp) occurring above the existing dirt road that may be disturbed should be removed and transplanted outside of the road development footprint prior to construction. Soil erosion is likely to be of some concern here due to the erosion prone sandy soils in the area. Specific focus should be given to erosion control in the vicinity of this drainage line to ensure sediments are not washed downstream into the riparian zone. Photo s Photo 1. Head of the drainage line upstream of the existing dirt road, colonized by numerous exotic species of vegetation including immature gum trees (coppice growth) and exotic weeds. Site 3 Map 27

49 3.2.4 Site 4: Largely natural wooded riparian area General details Name: Site 4: Largely natural wooded riparian area Road Option: 1 Type: Riparian area - drainage line Classification: Riverine Slope: Relatively steep below existing dirt track Wetland area: N/A Catchment: Transformed forestry Existing Dirt track crosses drainage line, forestry activities in the catchment hydrology, impacts and Eucalyptus sp and alien plants (Bracken) in riparian area above dirt track, threat of threats: sedimentation and further invasive alien plants caused by disturbance related to forestry activities. Vegetation General Largely natural riverine/coastal forest Description: Red Data List Status: 28 Vegetation types considered Least Threatened according to Red Data List (SANBI, 2009a). Refer to Appendix A for full species list and conservation status. Note: The draft list of threatened ecosystems (SANBI & DEAT, 2009) reveals that the vegetation type (Maputaland Wooded Grassland) associated with this riparian area is considered Vulnerable (VU).

50 Species present: Botanical name Common name Status Density Phoenix reclinata Wild date palm Indigenous Low Stenochlaena tenuifloia Giant vine fern Indigenous Medium Smilax anceps Thorny creeper Indigenous Low Thelypteris dentata Downy maiden fern Indigenous Low Syzygium cordatum Water berry Indigenous Medium Rauvolfia caffra Quinine tree Indigenous Medium Acacia karroo Sweet thorn Indigenous Low Albizia adianthifloia Flat-crown Indigenous Medium-High Stelitzia nicolai Natal wild banana Indigenous Medium Pteridium aquilinum Bracken Indigenous (weed) Low-Medium Eucalyptus sp Gum tree Exotic Low Brachylaena discolor Coastal silver oak Indigenous Medium Erythrina lysistemon Common coral tree Indigenous Low Specific Observations and Recommendations The section upstream of the existing sandy track crossing the drainage line is in a poor condition, having been transformed by forestry and planted to Eucalyptus sp. On the downstream side of this track, on the other hand, is a largely natural riparian coastal forest dominated by a range of indigenous tree species that should be conserved. It is recommended that the road be aligned so that the lower edge of the road reserve is above the section of intact riparian zone. The road can be extended upstream into the section of plantation which is of a far lower ecological significance than the forest downslope. Soil erosion is likely to be a concern here due to the erosion prone sandy soils in the area and the relatively steep topography. Specific focus on erosion control should be administered. Photo s Photo 1. View showing indigenous coastal riparian vegetation on the downstream side (right hand side in photo) with the upstream (left hand) side colonized by Gums and weeds. Site 4 Map 29

51 30

52 3.3 Recommended Management Objectives Management and mitigation measures will need to be employed on-site to ensure that water resources attain the desired future class and will need to be informed by the management objective for the water resource which, in the absence of classification, is based on the current status of the water resource or PES (Present Ecological State, from WET-Health assessment) and the EIS (Ecological Importance and Sensitivity) of the wetland (DWAF, 2007). As indicated below in Table 15, the recommended management objective for the wetlands at Site 1 and Site 2 should be to maintain the present integrity and ecosystem functioning of the system (based on an overall C category PES and an overall EIS regarded as Moderate, for both systems). Table 15. Recommended management objectives for wetlands at Site 1 and Site 2 EIS Very high High Moderate Low A Pristine A Maintain A Maintain A Maintain A Maintain B Natural A Improve A/B Improve B Maintain B Maintain PES C Good B Improve B/C Improve C Maintain C Maintain D Fair C Improve C/D Improve D Maintain D Maintain E/F Poor D Improve E/F Improve E/F Maintain E/F Maintain 31

53 4 ASSESSMENT OF AQUATIC IMPACTS Potential threats and impacts to the aquatic ecosystems (wetlands and riparian areas) within the study area were identified and quantified based on the design specifications provided by Arcus GiBB together with best-management practice for road-related impacts and specialist experience in dealing with the range of impacts that can be expected to be incurred during construction and operation of road-infrastructure. The following design specification for the road development (based on that supplied in the NEMA License Application Scope of Work provided by the client) was used to inform the assessment of impacts: The road will be a single carriage (one lane of traffic in both directions) and tarred with the following specifications/dimensions: Surfaced width - 9m Layer works width 10m Shoulder breakpoint width - 15m Clearing width - 25m Earthworks breakpoint width - 21m 4.1 Assessment of Construction-Phase Impacts The detailed results of the Construction-Phase aquatic impacts assessment can be found in Annexure E-1 at the end of this report. A summary of the results has been provided in Table 16 below, indicating Impact Significance for two scenarios: (i) without mitigation, and (ii) with mitigation. An indication of the relative ease of mitigation has also been provided for each impact type. Management and mitigation recommendations for the construction phase are included in Chapter 5: Section 5.1 of this document. 32

54 Table 16. Summary of the aquatic impact assessment for the construction phase of the development Impact Impact Item No. 1 2 Threat/Impact Water pollution resulting from construction activities Solid waste/litter pollution from construction activities Significance (without mitigation) Significance (with mitigation) Ease Mitigation Medium-High Low-Medium Moderate Low-Medium Low Easy 3 Sedimentation from construction activities Medium Low-Medium Moderate 4 Disturbance and compaction of wetland soils Medium Low-Medium Difficult 5 Disturbance and destruction of wetland vegetation and habitat Medium-High Low-Medium Moderate 6 Soil erosion Medium Low-Medium of Moderately Difficult 7 Colonization by alien plants Medium Low-Medium Moderate 8 Noise-related disturbance Medium Medium Difficult 4.2 Assessment of Operation-Phase Impacts The detailed results of the Operation-Phase aquatic impacts assessment can be found in Annexure E-2 at the back of this report. A summary of the results has been provided in Table 17 below, indicating Impact Significance for two scenarios: (i) without mitigation, and (ii) with mitigation. An indication of the relative ease of mitigation has also been provided for each impact type. Management and mitigation recommendations for the road operation phase are located in Chapter 5: Section 5.2 of this document. Table 17. Summary of the aquatic impact assessment for the operational phase of the development Impact Impact Item Significance Significance Ease of Threat/Impact No. (without (with Mitigation mitigation) mitigation) 1 Permanent loss of wetland habitat1 Medium-High Medium-High Difficult 2 Pollution caused by vehicles using road Medium Low-Medium Moderate 1 Refers to the permanent loss of wetland habitat caused by the construction of hardened artificial surfaces over wetlands 33

55 3 Solid waste (litter) pollution from vehicles/pedestrians Low-Medium Low Easy 4 Soil erosion caused by enhanced runoff from road surfaces Medium Low-Medium Moderate 5 Invasion by alien plants Medium Low-Medium Moderate 6 Direct disturbance of wetlands by pedestrians Low-Medium Low-Medium Easy 7 Alteration of wetland hydrology Medium Low-Medium Moderate 8 Vehicle collisions with local wildlife Medium-High Low-Medium Moderate 9 Noise-related disturbance Medium Medium Difficult Permanent loss of wetland habitat: The construction of a formal tarred road across wetlands at Site 1 and Site 2 will require an extension of the area of existing sedimentary fill associated with wider road surface proposed. This will result in the permanent loss of wetland habitat within the development footprint where hardened surfaces will be required. At present, the dirt road is approximately 5-6m wide and based on the construction design specifications, layer works would require the width of infilling to be extended to at least 10m, resulting in the permanent replacement of wetland habitat within a zone of between 4 and 5m from the edge of the existing fill material (as shown in Figure 9 which provides a rough estimate of wetland loss). An estimate of wetland habitat loss at the assessment sites was undertaken (assuming the road restrictions recommended in Section 5.1: Mitigation Guidelines and Management Recommendations are applied at sites where wetland habitat will be traversed). Based on the need to extend the area of fill by approximately 4-5m to achieve the desired width across the wetlands, the resultant loss of wetland habitat is estimated to be around 0.2 ha for Site 1 and 0.02 ha for Site 2, a combined total of roughly 0.22ha. Although physical loss of wetland habitat is one way to portray the loss of wetland, wetland functionality losses are in most cases more accurate in demonstrating the loss of wetland functioning, particularly in the case of degraded ecosystems. Functional loss was estimated using hectare equivalents which were calculated using the PES scores obtained for each wetland from the WET-Health assessment according to the best-practice methods of Kotze (2007), with the outputs of this calculation summarised in Table 18, below. The combined loss of functional habitat equates to roughly 0.14 hectare equivalents, which is a relatively small percentage (<1%) in relation to the broader combined wetland area assessed. 34

56 Table 18. Summary of wetland habitat loss in terms of both physical area and functional loss expressed in hectare equivalents Wetland Overall PES Score Physical Area Loss (ha) Hectare Equivalents (ha) Site Site Totals ha ha Loss Figure 9Maps showing the estimated permanent loss of wetland habitat at Site 1 (left) and Site 2 (right) due to road construction through these areas. 35

57 5 Mitigation Guidelines and Management Recommendations A number of mitigation guidelines and management recommendations have been suggested individually for both the construction and operation phases of the proposed road development. The guidelines and recommendations outlined in the text that follows should be applied to construction across the development project site where construction activities occur within 32 meters of wetlands and riparian areas identified and delineated in this report (ie. Sites 1 4) as per the requirements of the NEMA: 2010 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations. 5.1 Construction-Phase Mitigation and Management Recommendations Mitigation and management measures have been recommended to address the range of impacts identified for the development project. Many of the construction guidelines and recommendations are generic in nature and would therefore need to be applied generically to all aquatic features associated with Sites 1 through 4. Where specific mention is given to a particular site (eg. culvert design for Site 4) this mitigation measure/management guideline applies only to the site referenced. Item No. Key Area Management Specific Mitigation Measures Timing 1 Solid waste management and sanitation 2 Management of Hazardous substances/materials (including fuels, 36 Ensure that appropriate solid waste disposal facilities are provided on-site during construction. Ensure that any rubbish/litter is regularly cleared from the construction site on a daily basis. Sanitation: portable toilets to be provided where construction is occurring. Workers need to be encouraged to use these facilities and not the natural environment. Ensure portable toilets are located at least 20m from any wetland/riparian boundaries (as delineated in this report). Waste from chemical toilets should be disposed of regularly and in a responsible manner by a registered waste contractor. Clear and completely remove from site all general waste, constructional plant, equipment, surplus rock and other foreign materials once construction has been completed. The proper storage and handling of hazardous substances (hydrocarbons and chemicals, including fuels, paints and other hazardous substances) needs to be administered during construction. This should For the duration of construction For the duration of construction

58 chemicals cement) 3 Cement management 37 and 4 Storm water management and erosion control include the use of impermeable storage facilities located outside of wetlands/riparian areas. Storage of potentially hazardous materials (eg. fuel, oil, cement, bitumen, paint, etc.) should be outside of any 100-year flood line, or within a horizontal distance of 100m from a watercourse, drainage line or wetland. Operation and storage of machinery and construction-related equipment within wetland areas must be limited as far as possible. Spillages should be cleaned up immediately and contaminants properly drained and disposed of using proper solid/hazardous waste facilities (not to be disposed of within the natural environment). Any contaminated soil from the construction site must be removed and rehabilitated timeously and appropriately. Any cement batching activities should occur outside of the delineated wetland boundary or riparian zone. Cement batching boards should be used. Cement products/wash not to be disposed of into the wetlands/natural environment. Ensure that suitable overnight facilities are provided for vehicles, away from any areas of channelled flow. Provide drip-trays beneath standing machinery/plant. Routinely check machinery/plant for oil or fuel leaks before construction begins. Confine activities involving the mixing of cement/concrete to designated areas within the road reserve and ideally 20m outside of the delineated wetland boundary or riparian zone at Sites 1-4. Cement batching boards should be used (ie. no mixing directly on the ground). Cement products/wash material not to be disposed of into the wetlands/rivers. Water runoff from cement/concrete will be contained and leaching to ground water prevented. Construction across wetland / riparian areas should ideally occur during the winter months when flows are low to limit the potential for erosion. Any channeled flow/stream flow to be diverted away from construction activities. Install sediment barriers (eg: silt fences/sandbags/haybales) immediately downstream of active work areas as necessary to trap any excessive sediments generated during construction and prevent this from entering downstream wetlands/rivers. Any erosion gullies/channels created during construction should be filled and stabilized immediately to ensure sandy sediments are not transported into adjacent wetlands. Necessary erosion protection works for unstable For the duration of construction For the duration of construction

59 4 Access to natural areas 5 Stockpiling of soils and materials 6 Management of indigenous vegetation 38 riparian banks (eg: coarse rock pack, gabions) need to be constructed. The construction zone should be clearly demarcated prior to the commencement of construction activities to ensure that construction vehicles do not unduly disturb the wetland areas. The wetland boundaries should be demarcated on the ground using pegs/stakes and this boundary should be communicated to employees to prevent unnecessary access to sensitive wetland areas. Access to wetland/riparian areas outside of the defined construction zone needs to be restricted at all times. Site supervisors must ensure that impacts are confined to the construction zone. Movement of vehicles and machinery around the site must be restricted to designated access routes. Access routes should be designed to limit their potential impact on the environment, bearing in mind steep banks and areas that are already showing reduced groundcover and erosion. Minimise the number of access routes. Recommend the use of a single access route located on the upstream side of the proposed road. Access routes to be routinely inspected and maintained in an adequate state with minimal erosion. In very wet areas, obtain foot access using wooden boards. Excavated material/sediments/spoil from the construction zone (including any foreign materials) should not be placed within wetlands or channels in order to reduce the possibility of material being washed downstream. Excavated material would need to be placed outside of wetlands, preferably on the upstream side of the proposed road. Soils/material to be used in construction may not to be sourced from any wetlands or riparian areas. Any wetland topsoil removed during construction must be stockpiled separately from subsoil for rehabilitation works. Topsoil is to be handled twice only once to strip and stockpile, and once to replace and level. Topsoil and natural seedbed removed during construction must be stockpiled separately from subsoil for rehabilitation. The width of the construction zone should be minimised in sensitive wetland and riparian areas at Sites 1-4. Areas that need to be cleared of vegetation must be demarcated prior to any construction activities occurring. The EO must be given a chance to mark vegetation that is to be conserved before the Contractor begins clearing the site. No trees/shrubs/groundcover to be removed or vegetation stripped without the prior permission of the Engineer/Environmental Officer (EO). Indigenous vegetation that will be destroyed should Prior to and during construction For the duration of construction Prior to and during construction

60 7 Management of disturbed areas 8 Management of alien plants 9 Noise abatement during construction 39 be identified, removed with their root ball intact and stockpiled prior to construction for use in rehabilitation. This pertains mainly to woody tree species associated with riparian forest and mangrove/swamp forest. Vegetation removed should be placed in shaded areas and kept moist. During felling and the clearing of woody vegetation, avoid the removal of and / or damage to the lower strata of vegetation, the basal grass cover and topsoil layer wherever possible. Leave large indigenous trees in place where possible. Ensure that all the works are undertaken in such a manner that vegetation outside the works area is not damaged under any circumstances. Prevent vehicular and personnel access into undisturbed areas. Disturbed areas to be managed in such a way as to prevent soil erosion by laying down logs, brush cover, etc. in the interim period until these areas have been formally rehabilitated. Re-instate disturbed/destroyed indigenous vegetation (grasses and indigenous trees) as soon as practically possible once construction ceases, so as to stabilize erosion-prone areas (see Item 12: Rehabilitation of disturbed areas). Where possible, cut indigenous vegetation to ground-level rather than removing it completely, leaving root systems intact to facilitate more rapid re-colonization of disturbed areas. Implement an integrated alien weed control programme to ensure that alien plants are eradicated from the site, with adequate follow-up measures to ensure the area remains weed-free. This is largely confined to the riparian areas at Site 3 and 4. Re-vegetation of disturbed areas with locallycommon indigenous grasses and trees/shrubs should take place as soon as practically possible (see Item 12: Rehabilitation of disturbed areas). Herbicides/pesticides to be approved by EO before use. Ensure that only properly trained people handle and make use of chemicals. Dispose of the eradicated plant material at an approved solid waste disposal site. If no toxic sprays or persistent poisons were used during eradication, the wood may be sold or donated. Where practically possible, noise reduction/abatement measures to be implemented. No vehicles or construction personnel to access wetland/riparian areas outside of the demarcated construction zone. Limit the width of the construction zone through areas of sensitive habitat where sensitive/protected fauna are known or predicted to reside. For the duration of construction For the duration of construction For the duration of construction

61 10 Illegal harvesting of plants and animals Keep outside of sensitive habitat types that have been identified for protection/conservation. Where blasting operations are required, compliance with the regulations as included in the Explosives Act (Act No. 15 of 2003). Make use of noise mufflers and / or soft explosives if blasting. Supervisors to ensure that employees and staff conduct themselves in an acceptable manner while on site, both during work hours and after hours. No harvesting of any wood, plants or animal to take place in natural areas. Supervisors to ensure that all employees are aware of this restriction regarding the harvesting of natural resources in the area. 11 Fire management No open fires to be permitted anywhere on the construction site. Take immediate steps to extinguish any fire which may break out on the construction site. Do not store any fuel or chemicals under trees. Do not store gas and liquid fuel in the same storage area. 12 Water supply Water not to be taken directly from any wetlands, rivers or streams on site (unless authorized to do so). Source water from an off-site supplier and make provision for storage of an adequate water supply on-site. Suitable domestic water supply to be sourced for human consumption by workers onsite (to comply with Department of Water Affairs specifications for potable/drinking water). 13 Rehabilitation of disturbed areas All disturbed areas including site camps, access routes and areas cleared forming the road servitude are to be rehabilitated as soon as practically possible. Rehabilitation should return the ground surface to that which occurred pre-development and make use of indigenous grass species common to the region. Indigenous trees should be planted to assist with soil stabilization and erosion control, and will be aesthetically pleasing along the road side. Any indigenous plant material/trees rescued during construction should be used to rehabilitate disturbed areas by transplanting of vegetation. Indigenous trees should not be sourced from local areas of indigenous forest or riparian areas where these areas are not impacted by the development. Terrestrial tree and grass species common to the area should be sourced for use in planting. For the duration of construction For the duration of construction For the duration of construction Post construction 40

62 5.2 Operational-Phase Mitigation and Management Recommendations Operational mitigation measures and management guidelines have also been recommended for the operational life-span of the proposed road. These measures and guidelines have been recommended to ensure the continued protection and conservation of wetland and riparian areas associated with the development and should be enforced in order to ensure that operationalrelated impacts are mitigated and managed to an acceptable degree. Many of the guidelines and recommendations are generic in nature and would therefore need to be applied across the board for activities within the proximity of Sites 1 through 4. Where specific mention is given to a particular site (eg. culvert design for Site 4) this mitigation measure/management guideline applies only to the site referenced. Item Key Management No. Area 1 Solid/Liquid waste management 2 Storm water management and erosion control 41 Specific Mitigation Measures Provide adequate solid waste/litter disposal facilities (ie: bins) along the road at regular intervals with adequate signage to encourage proper waste disposal. Mechanisms need to be put in place to ensure that waste disposal bins are cleared on a regular basis and waste disposed of at a suitable registered solid waste disposal facility. Adequate pollution prevention infrastructure to be installed where necessary to control pollutants entering storm water. This may take the form of oil/grease traps that filter contaminated storm water runoff before this enters the aquatic environment, or by using bio-filtering material layed out on the ground before water enters wetlands/rivers. Wetland at Site 1: Existing culverts are considered to be inadequate or non-functioning and it will be necessary to replace this with a series of culverts below the proposed road surface to allow the movement of water through the wetland to remain unhindered. Recommend that a minimum of three single-pipe culverts be installed beneath the road at an interval of one culvert every 50-60m. Culverts below the road surface should adequately convey water through to downstream areas without resulting in scouring of receiving wetlands. Culverts are to be constructed flush with the wetland ground level to ensure there is no change in elevation between the bottom of the pipe and wetland that could cause water to erode the wetland downstream. Incorporate flow dissipation measures into the Timing Install before road becomes operational Install before road becomes operational

63 design of storm water infrastructure to encourage the slowing down and spreading out of flows over a wide area upon enter in downstream wetland areas. Storm water drainage systems should be designed to encourage infiltration through porous materials and mechanisms. Wetland and Site 2: The existing culvert below the dirt road at this site appears to be adequate; however the engineer responsible for the road design should investigate the potential for flooding of the road surface at this site during large storm events. The culvert is currently at a sufficient height such that only under large flows would the water level reach a sufficient height to enter through the piped culvert. Incorporate flow dissipation measures into the design of storm water infrastructure to encourage the slowing down and spreading out of flows over a wide area upon entering downstream wetland/riparian areas. Storm water drainage systems should be designed to encourage infiltration through porous materials and mechanisms. For riparian areas (Site 3 and Site 4): 3 Access to natural/wetland areas 4 Invasive alien plants control 42 For the riparian areas associated with drainage lines at Sites 3 and 4, a single piped-culvert below the road surface, with the inlet and outlet pipes at ground level, should be sufficient to convey storm water through to the downstream area. Incorporate flow dissipation measures into the design of storm water infrastructure to encourage the slowing down and spreading out of flows over a wide area upon enter in downstream areas. Suitable armouring of downstream areas may be required (eg: gabions, reno-mattresses) to reduce flow rate and scouring of downstream soils. Storm water drainage systems should be designed to encourage infiltration through porous materials and mechanisms. Remove any existing tracks/trails leading into wetland areas and vegetate these with indigenous grass species. Provide adequate pedestrian facilities alongside the road that will detract pedestrians from using wetland areas as an alternative route (eg. pedestrian lanes, bicycle lanes). Implement an integrated alien weed control programme to ensure that alien plants are eradicated from the site, with adequate follow-up measures to ensure the area remains weed-free. This will need to include any disturbed areas Install before road becomes operational Postconstruction

64 5 Noise abatement during operation created during construction that may have become colonized by weeds. Re-vegetate any disturbed or cleared areas/bare soils with a suitable indigenous vegetation. Indigenous trees should be planted to assist with soil stabilization and erosion control, and will be aesthetically pleasing along the road side. Any indigenous plant material/trees rescued during construction should be used to rehabilitate disturbed areas by transplanting of vegetation. Indigenous trees should not be sourced from local areas of indigenous forest or riparian areas where these areas are not impacted by the development. Terrestrial tree and grass/sedge species common to the areas should be sourced for use in planting. Install appropriate warning signs to indicate presence of sensitive wildlife/habitat conservation zones associated with wetlands and riparian areas at Sites 1-4. Consider speed restrictions (eg. speed bumps) along road in vicinity of wetlands. 6 Wetland habitat loss Requirements for wetland rehabilitation have been discussed separately in Chapter 7 of this report. 7 Risk of vehicular Install appropriate signs to indicate the presence of collisions with local sensitive wildlife/habitat conservation zones wildlife associated with wetlands. Special speed restrictions to be applied along the road in vicinity of Sites 1 4 using a combination of appropriate road signs and speed reduction measures such as speed bumps. Install before road becomes operational Postconstruction Install before road becomes operational 43

65 6 General Recommendations on Route Selection and Route Alignment From an aquatic environment perspective, although route Option 1 will impact on the fewest number of wetlands, the potential for erosion along this route is high, with the presence of sandy soils and lack of any existing road surfaces. The Option 2 route alignment will entail the widening of an existing dirt track that is roughly 5-6 metres wide and construction of a formal tarred road using the existing road template. Erosion is therefore less likely to be a problem at this site. Option 2 is therefore the preferred route option from an aquatic environment perspective in light of the lower risk of erosion and sedimentation. Whether the final route alignment will take the path of Option 1 or Option 2, the following recommendations have been made regarding the route alignment in the vicinity of aquatic resources at assessment Sites 1 4: Assessment Site Site 1: wetland Site 2: wetland Site 3: riparian Site 4: riparian Recommendations for final route alignment Route alignment across the swamp forest to proceed in such a way that road extension occurs in an upstream direction using the downstream side of the existing dirt road as the lower limit of layer works. Route alignment should proceed in such a way that road extension occurs in a downstream direction using the upstream side of the existing dirt road as the upper limit of layer works. In this way, the dam/pond upstream will be retained as a feature. Route alignment across Site 3 to proceed in such a way that the road is constructed in an upstream direction, using the downstream edge of the existing dirt road as the lower limit of layer works. In this way, the invaded riparian zone upstream of the existing dirt road will be most impacted, whilst the downstream area which is largely natural, will remain largely undisturbed. Route alignment across Site 3 to proceed in such a way that the road is constructed in an upstream direction, using the existing sandy track/path as the lower limit of layer works. In this way, the Eucalyptus sp. dominated area upstream of the existing dirt track will be most impacted, whilst the downstream area which is largely natural, will remain largely undisturbed. 44

66 7 Wetland Rehabilitation Recommendations While significant residual impacts to wetlands are anticipated as a result of the proposed development, the extent of such impacts is limited, with a small loss in wetland functional area. Emerging best-practice does however recommend that compensatory mitigatory actions be undertaken to compensate for significant residual impacts to wetland systems. The need and desirability of such actions should however be weighed against the practicality of implementing such actions for situations where the scale of impacts are limited. If relevant authorities insist on the need for wetland offsets, the following recommendations to compensate for on-site wetland habitat loss should be considered: Candidate wetland site selection: Wetlands along the proposed development corridor are largely in a relatively good condition in terms of vegetation and geomorphology. Although system hydrology has been largely altered, this is mainly due to forestry activities located in the catchment, with little scope for improving wetland hydrology within the wetlands themselves. In light of this, it is recommended that any rehabilitation focus on an offsite wetland, identified for the purposes of applying the wetland offset. Such a site would ideally be located within an area owned by Richards Bay Minerals where the site can be secured and effectively managed. Offset ratios: If a wetland offset is to be applied, it is recommended that for each hectare equivalent of wetland destroyed (due to construction of hardened/impermeable surfaces or depositing of permanent fill material in wetland areas), three hectare equivalents of wetland be rehabilitated as a wetland offset (i.e. 1:3 offset ratio applied). This is consistent with bestpractice guidelines applied in the province for KwaZulu-Natal (Browlie, 2009). Based on calculations undertaken, wetland loss is estimated at being in the region of 0.14 ha equivalents, the resultant offset area required would be three times this, or 0.42 ha equivalents. Wetland rehabilitation plan and legal requirements: Once a suitable wetland rehabilitation site has been identified and secured, a wetland rehabilitation plan would need to be compiled in line with the requirements of the National Water Act No. 36 of Relevant to wetland rehabilitation, certain water-use activities require registration and/or licensing by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) where activities trigger Section 21 of the National Water Act 36 of According to the Act, water use must be licensed unless its use is excluded. Application for a water use license, permit or authorisation must be made for the following listed activities under Section 21 of the NWA applicable to wetland rehabilitation: Section 21 (c) water use: Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse; and Section 21 (i) water 45

67 use: Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a water course. In terms of Section 39 of the National Water Act (NWA), a General authorisation (GA) has been granted for certain activities that are listed under the NWA (Act No. 36 of 1998) that usually require a Water Use License; as long as these activities are undertaken for wetland rehabilitation and the primary purpose of the rehabilitation is for conservation purposes. A wetland rehabilitation plan for the off-site wetland offset will need to be compiled in line with the requirements outlined in Government Notice 1198 of 18 December 2009 in order for the wetland rehabilitation to be authorized under the GA. The details of the GA are provided below to inform the compilation and content of a rehabilitation plan for an identified wetland. General Authorisation in terms of Section 39 of the National Water Act No. 36 of 1998 in terms of Section 21 (c) and (i) for the purpose of rehabilitating a wetland for conservation purposes The purpose of the Notice is to replace the need for a water user to apply for a license for impeding or diverting the flow of water in a water course in terms of Section 21 (c) or altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics if a watercourse in terms of section 21 (i) of the Act for the purpose of rehabilitating a wetland for conservation purposes, provided that the use is within the conditions set out in this Notice. Exclusions from this General Authorisation include: any other Section 21 water-use and/or any listed activity in terms of NEMA. 46 Conditions of Government Notice 1198: 7. General 1) The water user must not cause a potential, measurable or cumulative detrimental impact on a) the welfare, health or safety of human beings; b) any aquatic or non-aquatic organisms; c) the resource quality; d) property; or e) the socio-cultural and heritage value or a wetland. Authority to enter onto land 2) Prior to the commencement of the water use, the water user must obtain lawful 1) authority to enter upon land owned or controlled by the State; and 2) access to enter upon private owned or controlled land on which the proposed water use is to be undertaken. Rehabilitation Planning Process 3) The water user must compile and maintain an initial Planning Report consisting of - a) identification of all persons potentially affected by the rehabilitation of the wetland b) documentation on the appraisal of stakeholders to be engaged on the proposed process c) as assessment of ecological status, importance and sensitivity (including socio-cultural and heritage) of the wetland; d) identification of work to be undertaken; e) identification of rehabilitation interventions; f) design of rehabilitation interventions; g) rehabilitation plans; and h) establishment of a monitoring and evaluation process of work that is to be undertaken.

68 4) The water user must a) identify all legal requirements that must be complied with in the rehabilitation process; b) maintain a copy of all published notices; and c) establish and maintain an Issues and Comments Register. Rehabilitation Plan 5) A rehabilitation plan must contain the following information - a) rehabilitation objectives; b) rehabilitation problems; c) rehabilitation strategy; d) wetland assessment report; e) draft rehabilitation design drawings; f) final rehabilitation plans; g) rehabilitation intervention; h) maintenance details; i) monitoring and evaluation data; j) construction notes; k) Environmental Authorisation if applicable under NEMA; l) Authorisation, if applicable under any other legislation. a) Landowner documents including: a. Entry onto land approval, b. Wetland survey consent form, c. Terms and Conditions for rehabilitation, d. Property Inspection document, and e. Notification of completion document. 6) Copies of all designs and rehabilitation plans must be submitted to the responsible authority for approval prior to commencement of any activity under this Notice. Completion of water use 7) Upon completion of the activity relating to the water usea) all disturbed areas must be re-vegetated with indigenous vegetation suitable to the area; b) an active campaign for controlling new invasive exotic and alien vegetation must be implemented within disturbed areas; c) a habitat assessment study must be carried out annually for three years to ensure that the rehabilitation is stable, failing which, remedial action must be taken to rectify any impacts; and d) structures must be inspected regularly for the accumulation of debris, blockages, instabilities and erosion with concomitant remedial and maintenance actions. 8) A report under subparagraph 7c) must be submitted to the responsible authority for approval within 6 months after completion of the work undertaken. 8. Budgetary Provisions 1) The water user must ensure that it has sufficient budget to complete and maintain the rehabilitation as set out in this Notice. 2) The Department of Water Affairs may at any stage of the process request proof of budgetary provisions 9. Registration 1) A person who uses water as contemplated in this Notice, must register such water use with the Department of Water Affairs. 2) Upon completion of registration, the Department of Water Affairs will provide a certificate of registration to the water user. 10. Inspection Any property in respect of which a water use has been registered in terms of this Notice is subject to inspection as contemplated in sections 124 and 125 of the NWA. 47

69 8 REFERENCES Armstrong A, WET-Legal: Wetland rehabilitation and the law in South Africa. WRC Report No. TT 338/08. Water Research Commission, Pretoria. Bromilow, C Problem plants of South Africa: A guide to the identification and control of more than 300 invasive plants and other weeds. Revised Edition. Pretoria, South Africa. Browlie, S. (2009). Draft Guideline on Biodiversity Offsets: KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Chittenden, H. (2009). Robert s Bird Guide: A comprehensive field guide to over 950 bird species in southern Africa. CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research) National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA). Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa. DEAT (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism) Regulations of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. Guideline Document on EIA DWAF (Department of Water affairs and Forestry). 2005a. A practical field procedure for identification and delineation of wetland and riparian areas. Edition 1, September DWAF, Pretoria. DWAF (Department of Water Affairs and Forestry) 2005b. Environmental Best Practice Specifications: Operation. Integrated Environmental Management Sub-Series No. IEMS 1.6. Third Edition. DWAF, Pretoria. DWAF (Department of Water Affairs and Forestry) 2005c. Environmental Best Practice Specifications: Operation. Integrated Environmental Management Sub-Series No. IEMS 1.6. Third Edition. DWAF, Pretoria. Driver, A., Nel, J.L., Snaddon, K., Murray, K., Roux, D.J., Hill, L., Swartz, E.R., Manuel, J. and Funke, N Implementation Manual for Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas. Report to the Water Research Commission. WRC Report No. XXXX. June ethekwini Municipality, Generic EMP for Construction Activities. 48

70 Henderson, L. and Cilliers, C.J Invasive Aquatic Plants: A guide to the identification of the most important and potentially dangerous invasive aquatic and wetland plants in South Africa. Plant protection research institute handbook No. 16. Kotze, D.C ecosystem services by the wetland. Assessing the effect of rehabilitation on wetland health and the delivery of Kotze, D.C., Marneweck, G.C., Batchelor, A.L., Lindley, D.S. and Collins, N.B Wet-Ecoservices: A technique for rapidly assessing ecosystem services supplied by wetlands. Macfarlane, D.M., Teixeira-Leite, A., Goodman, P., Bate, G and Colvin, C (in prep). Development of a methodology to determine the appropriate buffer zone width and type for developments associated with wetlands, rivers and estuaries: Deliverable 5: Draft method and model for buffer zone determination. Report for the Water Research Commission. Macfarlane, D.M., Kotze, D.C., Ellery, W.N., Walters, D., Koopman, V., Goodman, P. & Goge, C Wet-Health: A technique for rapidly assessing wetland health, Version 2. Macfarlane, D.M., Walters, D. and Cowden, C A wetland health assessment of KZNs priority wetlands. Report prepared for Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Munsell Soil Colour Chart (year 2000 edition). Rountree (in prep.). Ecological Importance and Sensitivity assessment tool. SANBI, 2009a. Red List of South African Plants Strelitzia 25. Pretoria. SANBI, 2009b. Further Development of a Proposed National Wetland Classification System for South Africa. Primary Project Report. Prepared by the Freshwater Consulting Group (FCG) for the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). SANBI and DEAT Threatened Ecosystems in South Africa: Descriptions and Maps. DRAFT for Comment. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa. Van Ginkel, C.E., Glen, R.P., Gordan-Gray, K.D., Cilliers, C.J., Muasya and van Deventer, P.P Easy indetificaiton of some South African Wetland Plants (Grasses, Resticios, Sedges, Rushes, Bulrushes, Eriocaulons and Yellow-eyed grasses). WRC Report No. TT 459/10. 49

71 Van Oudtshoorn, F. (2006). Guide to grasses of Southern Africa. Pretoria, South Africa. Van Wyk, B. and Van Wyk, P Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa. 50

72 ANNEXURE A: Vegetation survey data of dominant/indicator species common to wetlands/riparian areas Note: The species of vegetation indicated here represent the dominant/indicator species observed during fieldwork. This is not intended to be a comprehensive vegetation assessment but merely provides an overview of the dominant/indicator wetland/riverine species. Exotic species highlighted in Red text. 51

73 52

74 ANNEXURE B-1: Wetland delineation field assessment details Wetland Reference: W12J: Richards Bay Mhlatuze/Mzingazi System Date of Field Assessment: 7 th March 2012 Weather Conditions: Clear, significant rainfall preceding site visit Classification/Type: Channelled valley bottom Unchannelled valley bottom Hillslope seep Valley head seep Artificial Floodplain Channel Depression Flat GENERAL Area of wetland: Various Site Disturbance: Largely undisturbed swamp forest and riverine forest buffer, disturbance in the form of forestry and associated alien plants as well as dirt road construction across wetlands Wetland Indicators Present: Terrain unit indicator Hydrology Indicator Soil wetness indicator Vegetation indicator Difficulties Encountered The very sandy nature of soils made the identification of signs of soil wetness difficult. Signs of oxidation along root zones and mottling were evident in most cases however, allowing for the deduction of wetland conditions. Position in landscape crest scarp midslope valley bottom footslope Saturation/Inun dation Not inundated Inundated Depth of Surface Water: cm saturated within top 50cm Terrain Unit Indicator: Landform hillslope terrace Local relief flat concave Hydrology Indicator: Secondary Indicators Sediment Deposits Aquatic invertebrates Salt Crust 53

75 General Soil Type Mineral Soil Organic Soil High clay content High sand content High silt content Soil Sample Type Terrestrial (non-wetland) soil type Temporary wetland soil type Seasonal wetland soil type Permanent wetland soil type Sample Depth 0-30cm 10-40cm 10-30cm 0-50cm Hue / Value / Chroma 5Y / 8 / YR / 5 / YR / 3-4 / 2-3 Gley1 / 3 / 10Y Mottling None Few red/yellow mottles (<5%) Abundant red mottles (30-50%) None Soil Wetness Indicator: Organic Matter (estimated) Description Bleached yellow-white sandy soils Very Low Very Low Low-Medium Medium Grey brown sandy soils with few redorange mottles Dark gray-brown sandy soils with abundant red mottles Dark gray gleyed clayey-sand Sample Photo Sample location Terrestrial areas on the periphery of wetland boundary with bleached sandy soils Narrow zone between seasonal wetland and terrestrial environment Soils saturated but not inundated with water forming a small narrow zone beyond permanent wetland Permanently inundated soils in standing water within swamp forest 54

76 Dominant / Indicator Species Hydric Status Location Estimated Cover Phragmites australis Common reed ow Permanent wetland and open water areas Low Pteridium aquilinum Bracken fd Temporary to seasonal wetland areas Low Conyza spp. Fleabane fd Temporary wetland/non-wetland areas Low Solanum mauritianum Bugweed fd Temporary wetland/non-wetland areas Low Typha capensis Bulrush ow Permanent wetland and open water areas Low Barringtonia racemosa Freshwater mangrove ow Permanent wetland and open water areas High Ficus trichopoda Swamp fig ow Permanent wetland and open water areas High Phoenix reclinata Wild date palm fd Temporary and terrestrial areas Low Vegetation Indicator: Macaranga capensis Wild/Swamp poplar fw Permanent wetland and open water areas Medium Voacanga thouarsii Wild frangipani fw Permanent wetland and open water areas Medium Hibiscus tiliaceus Swamp hibiscus fw Permanent wetland and open water areas Medium Syzygium cordatum Water berry fw Riverine areas, wetland margins Medium Nymphaea sp Pond lily ow Open water Medium Cyperus prolifer Dwarf/pygmy papyrus fw Permanent wetland areas Low-Medium Conyza canadensis Horseweed fleabane fd Temporary and terrestrial areas Low Imperata cylindrica Cotton wool grass fw Temporary-seasonal wetland areas Low Paspalum distichum Water couch grass fw Temporary-seasonal wetland areas Low Cyperus articulatus Flat sedge fw Temporary-seasonal wetland areas Low Xanthium stumarium Large cocklebur fd Temporary and terrestrial areas Low-Medium 55

77 ANNEXURE B-2: Wetland Delineation Map: Wetland at Site 1 56

78 ANNEXURE B-3: Wetland Delineation Map: Wetland at Site 2 57