Lcun:us G \'1111 Zyl ~Sobi l e) -27 (O)76371 m l HARTEBEESTPAN 330 (Websile) .... "A'W 1ma,i$.(.'O.U (Email) loomr.€lernp5.ro.D Satellite Image
Projection - Gauss Conform o 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 Datum · Hartebeeshoek 1994 , , , , , , , , ! , I Reference Enipsold - WGS 1984 MeIers .,., ' Central Meridian - 25 Figure 4 Land use on the survey site
5.2 Overall Soil Impacts
The overall impacts of the proposed solar facility on agriculture will be low due to the low agricultural potential of the site, Due to the low rainfall, impacts on the soils such as dust generation are considered more problematic and will have to be addressed in more detail in the EIA process, Soil erosion is considered to be of low risk due to the level nature of the terrain, The establishment of a PV facility on the site means that shadow will increase on the
6 - soil surface with a subsequent decrease in evaporation losses. Under such conditions grass production for grazing purposes can be considered as there are distinct carbon sequestration benefits through increasing soi l organic ca rbon levels in t he soils.
6. ANTICIPATED SOIL / LAND USE / AGRICULTURE IMPACTS
The following impacts are expected for the proposed development:
6.1 Physical Soil Disturbance Due To Construction Activities
Nature of Impact: Direct impacts are associated with the soils along the constructed roa ds as well as on the PV panel co nstruction sites. Indirect impacts could arise in the form of soi l erosion and degradation if storm water management is not planned and managed properly as it is generated on the roads and construction sites. Cumulative impacts are only considered to be problematic if the aforementioned storm water management is not instituted. Otherwise very limited cumulative impacts are expected due to the level terrain and re latively sha llow nature of the soils. Extent of Impact: The extent of this impact will be local in terms of the activity and will be associated with the activity on ly . Slightly larger, but still local in extent, impacts are expected if storm water runoff is not controlled . Potential Significance of Identified Impacts: The potential significance of the identified impacts is low due to t he potential for improvement of soil organic carbon levels under PV panels. Potentially Significant Impacts to be Assessed in EIA Phase: The potentially significant impacts to be assessed in the EIA phase will be limited to the classification of the soils as well as assessment of slopes and st orm water impacts. These parameters wi ll provide an indication to the project engineers regarding the erosion risk as well as inform the mitigation measures to be implemented on the site.
6.2 Impacts on Current Land Use Due To Construction Activities
The current land use is limited to extensive grazing.
Nature of Impact: Direct impacts are associated with the constructed roads as well as the PV pa nel co nstruction sites. I ndirect impacts cou ld arise in the form of land use changes due to soil erosion and degradation if storm water management is not planned and managed properly as it is generated on the roads and construction sites. Cumulat ive impacts are only considered to be problematic if the aforementioned storm water managem ent is not instituted. Otherwise very limited cumulative impacts are expected due to the low intensity land uses practiced on the site. The potential for positive impacts exist if these aspects are included in the design parameters of t he PV panels and stands. Extent of Impact: The extent of this impact will be local in terms of the activity and wi ll be associated with the activity only. Slightly larger, but still loca l in extent, impacts are expected if storm water runoff is not controll ed.
7 Pot entia l Signif icance of Identif ied I mpa cts: The potential significance of t he identified impacts is low due to the potential for improvement of soil organic carbon levels under PV panels. Potentially Significant Impact s t o be Assessed in EIA Phase: The potentially significant impacts to be assessed in the EIA phase wi ll be limited to the determination of, in a broad sense, the carrying capacity of the site in general and specific sections of the site.
6.3 Impacts on Agr icultural Potential Due To Construction Activities
The agriculture potential of the site is low due to a range of biophysical constraints.
Nature of Impact: Direct impacts are considered to be small due to the low agricultural potential. Significant indirect and/ or cumulative impacts are considered to be improbable due to the low potential on the entire site. Extent of Impact : The extent of this impact will be local in terms of the activity and will be associated with the activity only. Slightly larger, but still local in extent, impacts are expected if storm water runoff is not controlled . The impacts are considered to be low due to the low agricultural baseline of the site. Pote ntial Significance of I dentified Impacts: The potential significance of the identified impacts is low due to the widespread occurrence of natural soi l degradation on the site re lated to arid conditions, low plant cover and intensive rainfall events. Potentially Significant Impacts to be Assessed in EIA Phase: The potentially significant impacts to be assessed in the EIA phase will be limited to the determination of the agricultural potential of the soils as well as the probability that they will be impacted.
7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
It is concluded that the proposed development of a solar energy facility on the site will not have large impacts on the current land use of the broader area. This is mainly due to the low agricultural potential, dominant so ils and climatic constraints for the site. Long-term detrimental impacts are not expected but adequate mitigation and management measures have to be put in place. The main aspect that will have to be managed on the site is dust generation during the construction process. Soil erosion poses a lim ited risk due to the level nature of the terrain.
The potential exists for an improvement in the organic carbon status of soils if adequate measures are taken during the planning and design stage of the project to accommodate for increased grass growth under t he panels. Due to the increased shade and subsequent decreased evaporation losses of water from the site there is a distinct possibility of improving the soils through adequate pasture management. Increased plant biomass underneath PV panels poses a risk though and these aspects have to be addressed in the planning and design phase.
The impacts on the site need to be viewed in relation to the opencast mining of coal in areas of high potential soils - such as the Eastern Highveld. With this comparison in mind the impact of
8 a solar energy facilit y is negligible compared to the damaging impacts of coa l mining - for a similar energy output. Therefore, in perspective, the impacts of t he proposed facility ca n be motivated as necessary in decreasing the impacts in areas where agriculture potential plays a more significant role.
A detailed site visit will have to be conducted as part of the EIA level investigation and the following parameters should be investigated :
» Soil distribution (classification) on the site; » Extent of degradation due to current land use (such as overgrazing); » Erosion status and erodibility of the soi ls on the site; and » Mitigation measures to arrest current impacts and manage future impacts associated with the development.
8. LIMITATIONS / GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE
The fo ll owin g limitations, or gaps in knowledge, exist for the proposed activity on the site » Soil distribution (classification) on the site (to be generated during the EIA phase); » Extent of degradation due to current land use (to be generated during the EIA phase); » Erosion status and erodibility of the soi ls on the site (to be generated during the EIA phase); and » Design specifications and layout of proposed development. This detail wi ll guide the specific impacts to be assessed as well as the proposed m itigation measures.
REFERENCES
LAND TYPE SURVEY STAFF. (1972 - 2006). Land Types of South Africa: Digital map (1:250 000 scale) and soil inventory databases. ARC-Institute for Soil , Climate and Water, Pretoria.
MACVICAR, C.N. et al. 1977. Soil Classification. A binomial system for South Africa. Sci. Bul l. 390. Dep. Agric. Tech. Serv., Repub . S. Afr., Pretoria.
MACVICAR, C.N. et al. 1991. Soil Classification. A taxonomic system for South Africa. Mem. Agric. Nat. Resour. S.Afr. No.1S. Pretoria.
9 ------...... 1 .. . Appendix H: Heritage Seoping Study - Heritage Scoping Report proposed for the Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy facilities on the farm Hartebeestpan, near Christiana, North-West Province
Prepared For
Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd
By
HERITAGE ((I Contracts and Archaeological Consulting
CLC @UJ
PO Box 524
Auckland Park
2006
VERSION 1.1 10 JANUARY 2012 - 2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT
CLI ENT: Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd
CONTACT PERSON: Jo-Anne Thomas Cell : 082 775 5628 Tel: 011 2346621 Fax: 086 684 0547
SIGNATURE:
LEADING CONSULTANT: Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC
CONTACT PERSON: Jaco van der Walt
Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting
Professional Member of the Association of Southern African Professional Archaeologist (# 159)
I, Jaco van der Walt as duly authorised representative of Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC, hereby confirm my independence as a specialist and declare that neither I nor the Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC have any interest, be it business, financial, personal or other, in any proposed activity, application or appeal in respect of which the Environmental Consultant was appointed as Environmental Assessment practitioner, other than fair remuneration for work performed on this project. Jj.
SIGNATURE: 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Site name and location: Solar Reserve South Africa (Pty) Ltd is proposing to establish two commercial photovoltaic solar energy facilities as well as associated infrastructure on the Farm Hartebeestpan 330 located approx imately 12 kilometres south of Christiana in the North-West Province
1: SO 000 Topographic Map: 2825AA
EIA Consultant: Savannah En vironmental (Pty) Ltd .
Developer: Solar Reserve South Africa (pty) Ltd
Heritage Consultant: Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC (HCAC).
Contact person: Jaco van der Walt Tel : +2782373 8491 E - mail [email protected].
Date of Report: 10 January 2012
Findings of the Assessment:
This report endeavoured to give an account of the history of the farm Hartebeestpan 330 HO 6. The general history of human settlement in the area, including information on the interactions between whites and blacks in the vicinity, was discussed. The report also aimed to ensure a better understanding of the surrounding area and its history.
The brief background study indica tes that a range of Stone Age manifestations can be expected in the areas demarcated for potential photovoltaic plants. Concentrations of stone tools point to activities that took place at various stages over the past 1.5 million years, representing the different groups of people who inhabited or moved across the landscape over time.
This scoping study revealed that a range of heritage sites occur in the larger region and similar sites can be expected within the study area. Every site is relevant to the Heritage Landscape, but it is antiCipated that few if any sites in the area have conservation va lue. From a heritage perspective sites in the area are expected to have Generally Protected A field ratings. 4
Disclaimer: Although all possible care is taken to identify sites of cultural importance during the investigation of study areas, it is always possible that hidden or sub-surface sites could be overlooked during the study. Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC and its personnel will not be held liable for such oversights or for costs incurred as a result of such oversights.
Copyright: Copyright in all documents, drawings and records whether manually or electronically produced, which form part of the submission and any subsequent report or project document shall vest in Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting Cc. None of the documents, drawings or records may be used or applied in any manner, nor may they be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever for or to any other person, without the prior written consent of Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting cc. The Client, on acceptance of any submission by Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC and on condition that the Client pays to Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC the full price for the work as agreed, shall be entitled to use for its own benefit and for the specified project only: The results of the project; The technology described in any report • Recommendations delivered to the Client 5
Contents ABBREVIATIONS ...... 7 GLOS SARy ...... 7 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 8 1.2 Terms of Reference ...... 9 1.3 Nature of the development ...... 10 1.4 The receiving en vi ron ment...... 10 2 . APPROACH AND METHODOLOGy ...... 11 2.1 Literature search ...... 11 2.2 Information collection ...... 11 2.3 Public consultation ...... 11 2.4 Google Earth and mapping survey ...... 11 2.5 Genealogical Society of South Africa ...... 1 1 3. LEGISLATION ...... 12 3.1 Heritage Site Significance and Mitigation Measures ...... 13 4 . REGIONAL OVERVIEW ...... 14 4 .1 General Information ...... 14 4.1.1. Literature search ...... 14 4.1.2. Information collection ...... 14 4 .13. Public consultation ...... 14 4.1.4. Google Earth and mapping survey ...... 14 4.1.5. Genealogical Society of South Africa ...... 14 5. HISTORIC PERIOD ...... 14 5.1. Historiography And Methodology...... 14 5.2. Maps Of The Area Under Investigation ...... 15 5.3. A Brief History of Human Settlement and Black and White Interaction in the Christiana/Warrenton Area ...... 18 S.4.Historical Overview Of The Ownership And Development Of The Farm Hartebeestpan 330 Ho ...... ,... 2 1 6. HISTORICAL CONCLU SION...... 22 7.1 Introduction ...... 22 7.2. Concluding remarks ...... 26 8 . PROBABILITY OF OCCURRENCE OF SITES ...... 27 9. ASSUMPTIONS AND llMITATIONS ...... 28 10. FINDINGS ...... 28 10.1. Archaeology ...... 28 10.1.1 Archaeological finds ...... 28 10.1.2 Nature of Impact ...... 28 10.1.3 Ex tent of impact ...... 28 10.2. Historical period ...... 29 6
10.2.1 Historical finds: 1...... 29 10.2.1 Nature of Impact...... 29 10.2.3 Extent of impact ...... 29 10.3. Buria ls and Cemeteries ...... 2 9 10.3.1 Burials and Cemeteries ...... 29 10.3.2 Nature of Impact...... 29 10.3.3 Extent of impact ...... 29 11. POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANCE OF HERITAGE RESOURCES ...... 29 12. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 30 13. PLAN OF STUDY ...... 30 14. LIST OF PREPARERS ...... 30 15. STATEMENT OF COMPETENCY ...... 31 16. REFERENCES ...... 32 Secondary Sources: ...... 32
Figures
Figure 1: Locality map provided by Savannah En vironmental ...... 8 Figure 2: Map showing the modern-day Hartebeestpan and its neighbouring fa rms . ... Error! Bookmark not defined. Figure 3: Google Earth image, showing where the farm Hartebeestpan is locat ed in relation to the towns Warrenton and Christiana. (Google Earth 2011) ...... 15 Figure 4 : 1902 Christiana District map, showing the farm Hartebeestpan No. 92 in relation to t he town of Christiana. Two small dams were present on the property at that time, one in the centre of the farm and the other far to the south . Some ordinary roads also crossed the property. (Surveyor General 's Office Pretoria 1902) ...... 16 Figure 5: 1907 Bloemhof District map, showing the farm Hartebeestpan No . 92 and its neighbouring farms. It seems that the farm at that time formed part of the Bloemhof territory. The same small dams and roads seen on the 1902 map of the property can also be seen on this map. (Su rveyor General 's Office Pretoria 1907) ...... 17 Figure 6 : 1885 Map showing the area of Griqualand West, which was in British possession at the time. Kimberley and the farm area were located in this district. (The British Empire 2011) ...... 18
Tables Table 1. Outline of the Stone Age cu!tural sequ ence of Sout~, Africa. 28 - 32 7
ABBREVIATIONS
AlA: Archaeological Impact Assessment ASAPA : Association of South African Professional Archaeologists BIA: Basic Impact Assessment CRM: Cu ltural Resource Management ECO : Environmental Control Officer EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment* EIA: Early Iron Aqe* EIA Practitioner: Environmental Impact Assessment Practitioner EMP: En vironmental Management Plan ESA: Early Stone Age GPS: Global Positioning System HIA: Heritage Impact Assessment LIA: Late Iron Age LSA: Late Stone Aqe MEC : Member of the Executive Council MIA: Middle Iron Age MPRDA : Mi neral and Petroleum Re sources Development Act MSA: Middle Stone Age NEMA : National Environmental Management Act PRHA: Provincial Heritage Resource Agency SADC: Southern African Development Community SAHRA: South African Heri tage Resources Agency
GLOSSARY
Archaeological site (remains of human activity over 100 years old)
Early Stone Age (~ 2.6 million to 250 000 years ago)
Middle Stone Age (~ 250 000 to 40-25 000 years ago)
Later Stone Age (~40-25 000, to recently, 100 years ago)
The Iron Age (~ AD 400 to 1840)
Historic (~AD 1840 to 1950)
Historic building (over 60 years old) 8
1. INTRODUCTION
Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting CC was contracted by Savannah (Pty) Ltd to conduct a Heritage Scoping Report for the proposed development of photovoltaic facilities re ferred to as Hartebeespan PV. The proposed project is on a site located approximately 12 kilometres south of Christiana in the North-West Province. The heritage scoping report forms part of the EIA for the proposed project.
The aim of the scoping report is to conduct a desktop study to identify possible heritage resources within the project area and to assess their importance within a Local, Provincial and National context. The study furthermore aims to assess the impact of the proposed project on non - renewable heritage resources and to submit appropriate recommendations with regards to the responsible cultural resources management measures that might be required to assist the developer in managing the discovered heritage resources in a responsible manner, in order to protect, preserve and develop them within the framework provided by Heritage legislation.
The report outlines the approach and methodology utilized for the Scoping phase of the project. The report includes information collected from various sources and consultations. Possible impacts are identified and mitigation measures are proposed in the following report. It is important to note that no field work was conducted as part of the scoping phase but will be conducted as part of the Impact Assessment phase of the EIA.
Proposed Photovoltalc (PV) Solar Energy Facilities on Hanebeestpan Farm, near Christi'lna, North-Wtst Province
~ _~""" - ~'RNd - Regional ROIId
P... nnal Rlvltl Hon-pe!ennW Rivet
···~Une • !*fnbu!ion SIIbe';IlIOtI
Figure 1: Locality map provi ded by Sa vannah En vironmental - 9
1.2 Terms of Reference The main aim of this scoping report is to determine if any known heritage resources occur within the study area and to predict the occurrence of any possible heritage significant sites that might present a fatal flaw to the proposed project. Th e objectives of the scoping report were to:
» Conduct a desktop study:
• Review available literature, previous heritage studies and other relevant information sources to obtain a thorough understanding of the archaeological and cultural heritage conditions of the area; • Gather data and compile a background history of the area; • Identify known and recorded archaeological and cu ltural sites; • Determine whether the area is renowned for any cultural and heritage resources, such as Stone Age sites, Iron Age sites, informal graveyards or historical homesteads.
» Report
The reporting of the scoping component is based on the results and findings of the desk-top study, wherein potential issues associated with the proposed project will be identified, and those issues requiring further investigation through the IA Phase highlighted. Reporting will aim to identify the antiCipated impacts, as well as cu mulative impacts, of the operational units of the proposed project activity on the identified heritage resources for all 3 development stages of the project, i.e. construction, operation and decommissioning. Reporting wi ll also consider alternatives should any significant sites be impacted on by the proposed project. This is done to assist the developer in managing the discovered heritage resources in a responsible manner, in order to protect, preserve and develop them within the framework provided by Heritage Legislation. 10
1.3 Nature of the development The PV solar energy facilities are proposed to accommodate an array of photovoltaic (PV) panels with a generating capacity for each project as follows:
» Christiana PV1 - Up to 15MW » Christiana PV2 - Up to 75MW
Other infrastructure associated with each PV facility will include:
» Upgrade of the Bloemheuwel Rural 132/ 22Kv substation which is located on the site » Mounting structure to be either rammed steel piles or piles with pre- manufactured concrete footings to support the PV panels; » Cabling between the project components, to be lain underground where practical; » Internal access roads; fencing and » Workshop area for maintenance storage, office, toilets and small water treatment unit
1.4 The receiving environment The study area is located approximately 12 kilometres south of Christiana in the North-West Province. The topography of the area is relatively flat and used to a large extend for agricultural purposes. Th e D505 gravel road and a 132 KV power line traverses the property from the south in a north easterly direction . "
2. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
The assessment is to be undertaken in two phases, a desktop study as part of the Scoping phase and an Archaeological Impact Assessment as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment phase . This report concerns the scoping phase. The aim of the scoping phase is to extensively cover all archaeological and cu ltural heritage data available to compile a background history of the study area. In order to identify possible heritage issues or fatal flaws that should be avoided during development.
This was accomplished by means of the following phases:
2.1 Literature search Utilising data for information gathering stored in the archaeological database at Wits and the McGregor Museum in Kimberly, published articles on the archaeology and history of the area and a search in the National archives. The aim of this is to extract data and information on the area in question, looking at archaeological sites, historical sites, graves, architecture, oral history and ethnographical information on the inhabitants of the area.
2.2 Information collection The SAHRA report mapping project (Version 1.0) was consulted to further collect data from CRM practitioners who undertook work in the area to provide the most comprehensive account of the history of the area where possible.
2 .3 Public conSUltation No public consultation was conducted during this phase.
2.4 Google Earth and mapping survey Google Earth and 1:50000 maps of the area were utilised to identify possible places where archaeological sites might be located.
2.5 Genealogical Society of Sout h Africa The database of the genealogical society was consulted to collect data on any known graves in the area. 12
3. LEGISLATION
For this project the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) is of importance and the following sites and features are protected:
a. Archaeological artefacts, structures and sites older than 100 years b. Ethnographic art objects (e.g. prehistoric rock art) and ethnography c. Objects of decorative and visual arts d. Military objects, structures and sites older than 75 years e. Histori ca l objects, structures and sites older than 60 years f . Proclaimed heritage sites g. Grave yards and graves older than 60 years h. Meteorites and fossils i. Objects, structures and sites or scientific or technological value.
Th e national estate that includes the followi ng:
a. Places, bu ildings, structures and equipment of cultural significance b. Places to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage c. Historical settlements and townscapes d. Landscapes and features of cultural significance e. Geological sites of scientific or cu ltural importance f. Archaeological and palaeontologica l importance g. Graves and burial grounds h. Sites of Significance relating to the history of slavery i. Movable objects (e.g. archaeological, palaeontologica l, meteorites, geological specimens, military, ethnographic, books etc.)
Section 34 (1) of the act deals with structures which is older than 60 years. Section 35(4) of this act deals with archaeology, pa laeontology and meteorites. Section 36(3) of the National Heritage Reso urces Act, deals with human remains older than 60 years. Unidentified/un known graves are also handled as older than 60 until proven otherwise. 13
3 .1 Heritage Site Significance and Mitigation Measures The presence and distribution of heritage resources define a Heritage Landscape. In this landscape, every site is relevant. I n addition, because heritage resources are non renewable, heritage surveys need to investigate an entire project area. In all initial investigations, however, the specialists are responsible on ly for the identification of resources visible on the surface.
This section describes the evaluation criteria used for determining the significance of archaeological and heritage sites. National and Provincial Monuments are recognised for conservation purposes. The following interrelated criteria were used to establish site significance:
» The unique nature of a site; » The integrity of the archaeological/cultural heritage deposit; » The wider historic, archaeolog ica l and geographic context of the site; » The location of the site in re lation to other similar sites or features; » The depth of the archaeological deposit (when it can be determined or is known); » The preservation condition of the site; » Potentia l to answer present research questions.
The criteria above will be used to place identified sites with in SA H RA's system of grading of places and objects which form part of the national estate, and which distinguishes between the foll owing categories-
FIELD RA TING GRADE SIGNIFICANCE RECOMMENDED MITIGATION
National Grade 1 - Conservation; national Significance (NS) site nomination
Provincial Grade 2 - Conservation; provincial Significance (PS) site nomination
Local Sig nificance Grade 3A High sig ni ficance Conservation; mitigation (LS) not advised
Local Significance Grade 3B High sig nificance Mitigation (part of site (LS) should be retained)
Generally Protected - High/medium Mitigation before A (GP.A) significance destruction
Generally Protected - Medium Recording before B (GP.B) significance destruction
Generally Protected - Low significance Destruction C (GP.C)
Sites with no Significance do not require mitigation; low to medium sites may require limited mitigation; whi le high significance requires extensive mitigation. Outstanding sites should not be disturbed at al l. Recognizable graves and living heritage sites have high social value regardless of their archaeological significance. 14
4 . REGIONAL OVERVIEW
4 .1 Gene ral Information
4 .1 . 1. Literature search No previously recorded sites exist with the Archaeological databases at Wits University. We are still awaiting results from the McGregor Museum Kimberley, the results will incorporated in the EIA phase of the project.
4 . 1.2. Infor mation collection Few CRM projects were conducted in the general study area, however two where conducted to the south west of the project area (Rossow 2006 & 2008).
4.1 3. Public consultation No public consultation was conducted during the scoping phase.
4 .1.4 . Google Earth and mapping survey Google Earth and 1:50000 maps of the area was utilised to identify possible places where archaeological sites might be located.
4.1.5. Genealogical Society of South Afr ica No grave sites are indicated within the study area.
5 . HI STORI C PERIOD
The following section will endeavour to give an account of the history of this farm and also a brief overview of the history of the area and district in which it is located. The report has been divided into several sections that will focus on the following aspects:
• General history of human settlement in the area
• The history of black and white interaction in the area
• A history of specific land ownership and development on the farm where this could be traced
5.1. Historiogra phy And Methodology It was necessary to use a wide range of sources in order to give an accurate account of the history of the area in which the farm Hartebeestpan 330 HO is located. Sources include secondary source material, maps, electronic sources and archival documents. A search on the National Archives database also includes searches in various other archives repositories, records centres, national registers and libraries in South Africa. Unfortunately, the amount of sources referring speCifically to the social history of the farm was limited, and in some instances it was only possible to write a more general overview of the history of the district in which the farm is located. Thus, although many sources exist on the general history it is difficult to compile histories that focus on very specific parts of the area, such as individual farms. Fortunately, it was possible to trace some documents in the National Archives that specifically relate to issues on the farm Hartebeestpan 330 HO . 15
5.2. Maps Of The Area Under I nvestigation
Figure 2~ Google Earth image, showing where the farm Hartebeestpan is located in relation to the towns Warrenton and Christiana. (Google Earth 2011)
16
C,lony( , .'''' o'y)BoundoIY --- re l_l1op lone D,Il"ct • --Ho ~t ec ds . Krocls ..... r. rm .. - on,,·O. ms ..... Rocdsfrnoml c r urnbQ ' s·H 'lIgh~ .», .,.,. • Oldl M IY Iii ry Posts GI footpo,hs I$S'OI'l 5 t '~ollc. Stn M S PS Bt idl t poLru .QlstroteaO rrlCP PQ~icc Pos ~ ,... ODP Re .' .oy ~ o5f Figure 3: 1902 Christiana District map, showing the farm Hartebeestpan No . 92 in relation to the town of Christiana. Two small dams were present on the property at that time, one in the centre of the farm and the other far to the south. Some ordinary roads also crossed the property. (Surveyor General's Office Pretoria 1902) 17 ; ...... Figure 4~ 1907 Bloemhof District map, showing the farm Hartebeestpan No . 92 and its neighbouring farms. It seems that the farm at that time formed part of the Bloemhof territory. The same small dams and roads seen on the 1902 map of the property can al so be seen on this map. (Surveyor General's Office Pretoria 1907) 18 Figure 5~ 1885 Map showing the area of Griqualand West, wh ich was in British possession at the time. Kimberley and the farm area were located in this district. (The British Empire 2011 ) 5.3. A Brief History of Human Settlement and Black and White Interaction in the Christiana/Warrenton Area A farm does not ex ist in isolation, and it is important to understand the social history of the surrounding area. It is essential to consider the history of towns in the vicinity of the property under investigation, since these social centres would have affected those individuals living in the rural areas. The city of Kimberley is of obvious significance, but some smaller towns such as Christiana, Bloemhof and Warrenton are also of import. The history of these towns will be discussed briefly. Roberts' book provides a lovely description of the Kimberley area : "The earth was grey, stony! cindery~ carpeted in long silvery grass and dotted w!th th ousands upon thousunds of umbrella-shaped thorn trees ... When it rained, the normally dry watercourses became raging torrents; when it blew, the dust was choking; when, as happened for most days of the year, the sun shone, it was like an oven. In more ways than one could it be described as a no man's-Iand; lying between the Great Karoo to the south, the undulating grasslands to the north-east and the Kalahari desert to the north-west. " (Roberts 1985: 3) The land was however all but uninhabited. Among the earliest inhabitants in the area were the Koranas, the Khoikhoi and the Bushmen. The latter existed as hunter-gatherers, whereas the Khoikhoi and Koranas grazed livestock. In other' respects, their cultures were much alike. A group of people, who more recently started to inhabit the Kimberley district, were the " Bastards", in whose veins flowed the blood of white adventurers, the Khoikhoi and Bushmen peoples. - Appendix I: Vi sual Scoping Study - PROPOSED CHRISTIANA PV 2 (PHOTOVOL TAlC SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY) ON HARTEBEESTPAN FARM In the Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality, North West Pro vince VISUAL ASSESSMENT - INPUT FOR SCOPING REPORT Produced for: Solar Reserve South Africa (Pty) Ltd Produced by: MetroGIS (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 384, La Montagne, 0184 Tel: (012) 349 2884/5 Fax: (012) 349 2880 E-mail: [email protected] Web : www.metrogis.co.za On behalf of: Savannah En vi ronmental (pty) Ltd. PO Box 148, Sunning hill, 2157 Te l: (011) 234 6621 Fax : 086 684 0547 E-mail: [email protected] .za Web: www.savannahSA.com - January 2012 - CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION 2 2. SCOPE OF WORK 3 3. METHODOLOGY 3 4. ANTICIPATED ISSUES RELATED TO VISUAL IMPACT 3 5. THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 4 6. POTENTIAL VISUAL EXPOSURE 7 7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 9 8. REFERENCES/DATA SOURCES 12 MAPS Map 1: Shaded relief map (indicating the location of the proposed SEF and the topography and elevation above sea level) of the study area. Map 2: Land cover/ land use map of the study area. Map 3: Potential visual exposure of the proposed SEF. MetroGIS (Pty) Ltd, specia lising in visual impact assessment and Geographic Information Systems, is undertaking the visual impact assessment on behalf of Savannah Environmental (pty) Ltd, who is preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment report for the proposed project. Lourens du Plessis, the lead practitioner undertaking the assessment, has been involved in the application of Geographica l Information Systems (GI S) in Environmental Planning and Management since 1990. The team undertaking the visua l assessment has extensive practica l knowledge in spatial analysis, environmental modeling and digital mapping, and applies this knowledge in various scient ific fields and diSCiplines. The expertise of these practitioners is often utilised in Environmental Impact Assessments, State of the En vironment Reports and Environmental Management Plans . The visual assessment team is familiar with the "Guidelines for Involving Visual and Aesthetic Speciali sts in EIA Processes" (Provincial Government of the Western Cape: Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning) and utilises the principles and recomm endations stated therein to successfully undertake visua l impact assessments. Although the guidelines have been developed with specific reference to the Western Cape province of South Africa, the core elements are more widely applicable. Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd appointed MetroGIS (Pty) Ltd as an independent speciali st consultant to undertake the visual impact assessment for the proposed Photovoltaic So lar Energy Facility. Neither the author, nor MetroGIS wi ll benefit from the outcome of the project decision-making. 1. INTRODUCTION Solar Reserve South Africa (Pty)Ltd is proposing the establishment of a So lar Energy Facility (SEF) on a site about 12km west of Christiana, within the Lekwa Teemane Local Municipality in the North-West Province. Solar energy generation is generally considered to be an environmentally friendly electricity generation option. The company intends to utilise photovoltaic (PV) technology to constru ct an alternative energ y generation faci lity wit h a total generating capacity of 75MW. The project is proposed to be located on the Remainder of Portion 2 of the fa rm Hartebeestfontein 330, comprising an area of 4 .27km2. The proposed PV Solar Energy Facility will consist of a photovoltaic (PV) solar energy component as well as associated infrastructure. A formal layout of the SEF has not yet been finalised, but infrastructure is likely to include t he fo ll owing : • An array of PV panels; • Underground cabling bet ween the PV panels; • Invertor(s); • A power line that is likely to co nnect t o an existing power line north of the site; • An administrative building; • Internal access roads; • A workshop area for maintenance and storage; and • Upgrade of the Bloemheuwel Rural 132/ 22Kv substation which is located on the site. 2 2. SCOPE OF WORK The scope of work for the proposed SEF includes a scoping level visual assessment of the issues related to the visual impact. The scoping phase is the process of determining the spatial and temporal boundaries (i.e. extent) and key issues to be addressed in an impact assessment. The main purpose is to focus the impact assessment on a manageable number of important questions on which decision-making is expected to focus and to ensure that only key issues and reasonable alternatives are examined. The study area for the visua l assessment encompasses a geographical area of 21x26 km (the extent of the maps displayed below) and includes a minimum 6km buffer zone from the boundaries of the proposed development area. 3. METHODOLOGY The study was undertaken using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to undertake spatial analyses and mapping. Being a desktop study, information retrieved from the maps, as well as information received from the client with regard to the type of development, will be analysed. The procedure utilised to identify issues related to the visual impact includes the following activities: • The sourcing of relevant spatial data. This includes contour lines, cadastral features, vegetation types, land cover, etc. These datasets were sourced from various data custodians, including the Land Surveyor General, the Directorate National Geo-spatial Information and Eskom. • The creation of a detailed digital terrain model (DTM) of the potentially affected environment using 20m interval contours. • Performing a viewshed analysis from the proposed development area in order to determine the visual exposure and the topography's potential to absorb the potential visual impact. The viewshed analysis takes into account the placement and vertical dimensions of the proposed structures. • The identification of sensitive environments upon which the proposed facility could have a potential impact. This report (scoping report) sets out to identify the possible visual impacts related to the proposed SEF. 4 . ANTICI PATED ISSUES RELATED TO VISUAL I MPACT Anticipated issues related to the potential visual impact of the SEF include the following: • The visibility of the facility to, and potential visual impact on, observers travelling along main and secondary roads within the study area, specifically the N12 and the road transecting the development area. • The visibility of the facility to, and potential visual impact on farmsteads within the study area . • The visibility of the facility to, and potential visual impact on Utlwanang township, north-west of Christiana. • The potential visual impact of the facility on the visual character of the landscape and sense of place of the region. • The potential visual impact of ancillary infrastructure (i.e. power line, administrative building, internal access roads and workshop) on observers in close proximity to the proposed facility. 3 • The potential visual impact of operational, safety and security lighting of the facility at night on observers residing in close proximity of the facility. • Potential visua l impacts associated with the construction phase. • The potential to mitigate visual impacts and inform the design process. It is envisaged that the issues listed above may constitute a visual impact at a local and/ or regional scale. These anticipated visual impacts should be assessed in greater detail during the EIA phase of the project as this report is only focussed on defining the potential visual exposure of the proposed development and identifying the potential issues associated with the visibility of the development. 5 . THE AFFECTED ENVI RONMENT The proposed site for the development of the facility is located on the Remainder of Portion 2 of the Farm Hartebeestpan 330, as registered with the Surveyor General's office. This site comprises a total area of about 4.27km2 but the actual I development will be limited to a smaller area. Regionally, the site is located about 12km south-west of Christiana within the North-West Province. The primary activity in the region is farming. Mining of alluvial diamonds also takes place, especiall y along the Vaa l river, which is situated between 5-7km east of the site. Farmsteads occur in a dispersed pattern around the site. A number of roads run through the area under study. The N12 national road from Christiana to Warrenton passes through 3km south of the proposed site. A secondary road transects the site from north- east to south west, with another passing through 4km west of the site. A number of access roads to farms crisscross the area around the site. A railway line is situated on the southern boundary of the proposed site, running more or less parallel to the N12. (refer to Map 1). The study area is situated on land that ranges in elevation from about 1200m a.s.1. to 1270m a.s.l. With a general incline of 0.5% (1:200), the terrain is very flat, sloping south to south-east towards the Vaal river. Prominent topographical features in the area include the Vaal river which supports irrigation farming in the region. A number of ma ll pans occur in an evenly distributed pattern across the study area. The terrain type of the region is relatively homogenous and is described as plains with pans. Development in the study area is associated with farming and mini ng, as described above. Sheep and cattle farming has gradually replaced dryland farming in the immediate surrounds of the proposed development area, leaving large tracks of land as disturbed areas. Diamond delving in the study area has further contributed to the degradation of the landscape. A 132kV transmission line transects t he study area from north-east to south-west, linking with the Bloemheuwel Rural 132/ 22kV Substation, located on the site itself. 4 Christiana PV2 (75MW) Hartebeestpan Farm North-West Province 1250 SUbstation 0 1280 Proposed Sit e for the Photovoltaic Plant 1270 Map 1: Shaded relief map (indicating the location of the proposed SEF and the topography and elevation above sea level) of the study area. The vegetation in the region is largely grassland and thicket with limited visual absorption capabilities (refer to Map 2 ). The town of Christia na accou nts for the highest population conce ntration within the 2 region, which has an average of less than 10 persons per km • The ru ral population density is co nsidered to be low with a limited number of potential sensitive viewers. 5 PV2 (75MWI Hartebeestpan Farm North-West Province LAND CQVERJBROAD LAND USE PAT'TERNS _ Thicket lind austvand _ Grassland _ lOwn/BuiIH.lp Arc.1l _ \Nelbmel _ RiverlWal crbody _ Degraded land [2] AclidcncclH0mc5tud _ Irrigated Agr iculture G2J Power Line _ Dryland Agriculture Substalion _ Mines aM QUllrries Isur face-based miningl IffimI ","oposee! Site lor the Photovoltaic Plant Map 2: Land cover/land use map of the study area. There are no formally protected areas. In general, tourist facilities will be associated with fishing, camping and picnic spots along the Vaal river. The existence of any of these within the study area will be determined and confirmed during the EIA phase. 6 6. POTENTIAL VISUAL EXPOSURE The result of the preliminary viewshed ana lysis for the proposed SEF is shown on the map overleaf (Map 3 ). The initial viewshed analysis was undertaken at offsets of 2m above average ground level (i.e. the approximate maximum height of the PV structures). This was done in order to determine the general visual exposure of the area under investigation, simulating the proposed structures associated with the SEF. It must be noted that the viewshed analysis does not include the effect of vegetation cover or existing structures on the exposure of the proposed SEF, therefore signifying a worst-case scenario. The viewshed analysis was based on a provisional zone identified for the development of the PV structures on site. Once a final la yout of the SEF is completed, the viewed ana lysis wi ll be regenerated and refined to reflect the visual exposure of the development according to its actual position in the landscape. This will be undertaken during the ErA phase of the project. Map 3 indicates the areas from where the SEF will potentially be visible as well as proximity radii from the proposed development area . Due to the topographical characteristics of the region, visibility of the SEF is restricted to the immediate surrounding (less than 3km) and further concentrated in the eastern part of the study area. The following is evident from the viewshed analysis: • The proposed SEF has a core zone of potentially high visual exposure to the site, particularly within 3km around the site. . This core area includes a few farmsteads, a secondary road, as well as a few access roads to farms, which may be visually impacted upon. The farmsteads within the core zone of potentially high visual exposure include: o Hartebeestpan, o Hartbeespan, o Nooitgedacht, and o Odessa. • Potential visual exposu re in the medium distance (i.e. between 3km and 6km), wi ll only occu r towards the east. Within this zone potentially sensitive viewers will be located on roads, particularly the N 12, and farmsteads. The following farmsteads have been identified in this zone: o Ampiesrus (2 farmsteads at different locations), o Biesieslaagte, o Goedehoop, o Prontplaas, and o Cawoods Hope. • Potential visual exposure extends further east in the medium to longer distance (i.e. between 6km and 12km), and may partially include the western part of Utlwanang. The following farmsteads have been identified in this zone: o Sunnyside, o Geluk, o Blomheuwel (3 farmsteads at different locations), o Biesieslaagte (2 farmsteads at different locations), o Geluk, o Waterfront, 7 Map 3: Potential visual exposure of the proposed SEF. 0 Vryheid, 0 Peace Haven, 0 Leeuheuwel, 0 Abraha msu iskraa I, 0 Dankbaar, 0 Regina, 0 Thomburnton, and 0 Calby. • Driving westward on the N12 from Christiana to Warrenton, travellers may be exposed to views of the SEF from a distance of Skm to 3km from the site. The degree of exposure will vary from moderate to high, depending in the actual position of the facility and the distance of the observer from it. It is envisaged that the proposed facility would be visible to limited numbers of observers travelling along roads, residing in farmsteads or visiting the region, especially within an Skm radius of the proposed SEF. The facility would constitute a low to moderate visual prominence, potentially resulting in a visual impact. 7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The construction and operation of the proposed Photovoltaic Solar Energy Facility on the farm Hartebeestpan 330 will in all likelihood have a negative visual impact on a limited number of potentially sensitive visual receptors within (but not restricted to) a 6km radius of the facility. Apart from the westernmost part of Utlwanang, no settlements are affected. The area potentially affected by the proposed development is generally seen as a farming area having limited tourism potential. The landscape is considered to have little pleasing va lue in terms of sense of place, mainly due to the transformed and flat landscape with virtual no visual resou rces of high quality. It is therefore recommended that the significance of the potential visual impacts on sensitive receptors be assessed in further detail in the EIA. Additional spatial analyses must be undertaken in order to create a visual impact index that will further aid in determining potential visual impact. Inputs from the public participation process should also confirm the value of the landscape in terms of visual quality. Specific spatial criteria need to be applied to the visual exposure of the proposed facility in order to successfully determine visual impact and ultimately the significance of the visual impact. In this respect, the Plan of Study for EIA is as follows: • Determine Visual Distance/Observer Proximity to the facility In order to refine the visual exposure of the facility on surrounding areas/receptors, the prinCiple of reduced impact over distance is applied in order to determine the core area of visual influence. Proximity radii for the proposed development site are created in order to indicate the scale and viewing distance of the facility and to determine the prominence of the facility in relation to their environment. 8 MetroGIS determined the proximity radi i based on the anticipated visual experience of the observer over varying distances. The distances are adjusted upwards for larger facilities and downwards for smaller facilities (i.e. depending on the size and nature of the proposed infrastructure) . MetroGIS developed this methodology in the absence of any known and/ or acceptable standards for South African solar energy facilities. The proximity radii (calculated from the bou ndary lines of the farm) are as follows: o 0 - 3km. Short distance view where the facility would dominate the frame of vision and co nstitute a very high visual prominence. o 3 - 6km. Medium distance view where the fa ci lity would be easil y and comfortable visible and const itute a high to moderate visual prominence. o 6 - 12km. Medium to longer distance view where the facility would become part of the visua l environment, but would still be visible an d recognisable. This zone constitutes a moderate to low visual prominence . o Greater than 12km. Long distance view of the facility where it cou ld potentially still be visible though not as easil y recognisable. This zone constitutes a very low visual prom inence for the facility. • Determine Viewer Incidence/Viewer Perception The number of observers and their perception of a structu re determine the concept of visua l impact . If there are no observers, then there wou ld be no visual impact. If the visua l perception of the structure is favourable to all the observers, then the visual impact wou ld be positive. It is therefore necessary to identify areas of high viewer incidence and to classify certain areas according to the observer's visual sensitivit y towards the proposed SEF and its related infrastructure. It would be impossible not to generalise the viewer incidence and sensitivit y to some degree, as t here are many variables when trying to determine the perception of the observer; regularity of si ghting, cultural backg round, state of mind, and purpose of sighting which would create a m yriad of options. • Determine the Visual Absorption Capacity (VAC) of the natural vegetation This is the capacity of the receiving environment to abso rb or screen the potential visual impact of the proposed facility. The VAC is primarily a function of the vegetation, and wi ll be high if the vegetation is tall, dense and co ntinuous. Conversely, low growing sparse and patchy vegetat ion will have a low VAC. Th e digital terrain model utilised in t he ca lculation of the visual exposure of the fa cil ity does not incorporate the potential visual absorptio n ca pacity (VAC) of the nat ural vegetation of t he region. It is therefore necessary to determine the VAC by means of the interpretation of the vegetation cover, supplem ented with field observations . • Determine the Visual impact index The results of the above analyses are merged in order to determine where the areas of li kely visual impact would occur. These areas are further analysed in terms of t he previously mentioned issues (related to the visual impact ) and in order to judge the severity of each impact. 9 The above exercise should be undertaken for the core SEF as well as the ancillary infrastructure (i.e. the power lines, administrative building, internal access roads and workshop). The site-specific issues (as mentioned earlier in the report) and potential sensitive visual receptors should be measured against this visual impact index and be addressed individually in terms of nature, extent, duration, probability, severity and significance of visual impact. In addition, cumulative visual impact should be addressed, as well as suggested mitigation measures for all identified impacts (if any). 8. REFERENCES/DATA SOURCES Chief Director of Surveys and Mapping, varying dates. 1:50000 Topo-cadastral maps and digital data. CSIRjARC, 2000. National Land-cover Database 2000 (NLC 2000) I Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, 2001. Environmental Potential Atlas for the North- West Province (ENPAT North-West). National Botanical Institute (NBI), 2004. Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland (Unpublished Beta Version 3.0) ]0 - PROPOSED PHOTOVOLTAlC SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY (PV 2) ON THE FARM HARTEBEESTPAN, CHRISTIANA, NORTH WEST PROVINCE Submitted to: Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd PO Box 148 Sunninghill 2157 Tel : 011-2346621 Submitted by: 8atho Earth PO Box 35130 MENLO PARK 0102 Cell : +270827792750 Fa x: 088012361 1623 E-Mail : [email protected] -Satho...... £~tft, January 2012 - Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Introduction ...... 1 1.2 Project background •...... •...... •...... 1 1.3 Map of the study area ...... 3 2 . DEFINITION OF A SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... •...... 4 3 . PURPOSE OF THE REPORT ...... 4 4. APPROACH DURING THE SCOPING PHASE •...... 5 4.1 Scope of the Assessment ...... •...... 5 4.2 Literature Review, Analysis and Desktop Studies ...... 5 4.3 Projecting Anticipated Impacts ...... 5 4 .4 Reporting ...... 6 5. KEY DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION ...... 6 5.1 Municipal Background ...... 6 5.1.1 Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipalit y ...... 6 5.1.2 Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipalit y ...... 6 5.2 Population Dynamics ...... 7 5.2.1 Population Fig ures and Ag e Groups ...... 7 5.3 Education levels ...... 7 5.4 Employment Status ...... 7 5.5 Basic Services ...... 8 5.5.1 Housing ...... 8 5.5.3 Sanitation Services ...... 8 5.5.4 Electrici t y Provision ...... 9 5.5.5 Heal t h Services ...... 9 5.5 .6 Roads and modes of transport ...... 9 5 .6 Resources and land- Use ...... 9 5 .7 Tourism and Leisure ...... 9 5.8 Economy ...... 10 7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 12 7.1 General ...... 12 8. SPECIALIST STUDY TO BE CONDUCTED DURING THE EIA PHASE ...... 12 8.1 Further Literature Review ...... 12 8 .2 Consultation Sessions and Fieldwork ...... 13 8.3 Analysis of data compiled by parallel studies ...... 13 ii Proposed HartebeestDan PV Project Scoping Phase 8.4 Variables to be assessed ...... 13 8.5 Significance Criteria .••.•...... ••..•...... •..••....•....•....•...... •...... •...... •...•... 13 8.6 Reporting .....•...... •...... •...... •....•...... •...... ••...... 14 9. SOURCES CONSULTED ....•....•..••.••...... •. .•..•...... •..•.•.•..•...... 14 9.1 Documents ...... •...... •...... •••••.•...... 14 9.2 Websites ...... •.•....••.•••..•.•....••.•..•...... ••...•••.•.....•..•...... 14 10. APPENDIX A: QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE OF SPECIALIST ...•• ...... •. 16 I iii Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Introduction Savannah Environmental (Pty) Ltd, as Environmental Assessment Practitioners (EAP), has been appointed by Solar Reserve South Africa (Pty) Ltd . to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a proposed Photovoltaic Solar Energy Facility (PV facility) on the remainder of Portion 2 of the farm Hartebeestpan 330, si tuated approximately 12 km from Christiana in the North West Province. Before a project of this nature ca n proceed an EIA needs to be undertaken. As part of the EIA process, a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is required to be undertaken. The EIA process consists of two phases, namely the Scoping Pha se and a detailed EIA Phase . 1.2 Project background Solar Reserve South Africa (Pty) Ltd. is proposing the establishment of a renewable energy facility consisting of a Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy component as well as associated infrastructure on the remainder of Portion 2 of the farm Hartebeestpan 330 in the North West Province. The proposed site is situated approximately 23 km north-east of Warrenton (Northern Cape Province) and 12 km south-west of Christiana (North West Province). A broader area of 4 28 ha is being assessed within which the facility is to be constructed. Solar Reserve South Africa (pt y) Ltd. would also be submitting an application for a 15 MW PV facility on the farm Hartebeestpan 330. A Basic Assessment process would be undertaken for that project which would be referred to as Hartebeestpan PV 1. This report would thus not focus on the Hartebeestpan PV 1 project. The Hartebeestpan PV 2 facility will have a generating capacity of 75 MW and would include: • Upgrade of the Bloemheuwel Rural 132/22Kv substation which is located on the site; • Mounting structures to be either rammed steel piles or piles with pre-manufactured concrete footings to support the PV panels; • Cabling between the project components, to be lain underground where practical; • Internal access roads; fencing and • A workshop area for maintenance, storage, office, toilets and small water treatment unit. A 132 kV distribution power line traverses the site, with the Bloemheuwel Rural 132/22 kV substation on the eastern section of the property. The railway line traverses the southern side of the farm and the N12 linking Warrenton and Christiana is to the south of the railway Proposed Hartebeestoan PV Project Scoping Phase line and farm boundary. The gravel road from the N12 to the R708 (to Jan Kempdorp) traverses the site. Refer to the next page for a map of the site location. 2 I Proposed Hartebeestpan PY project Scoping Phase 1.3 Map of the study area Proposed Photovoltalc (PV) Solar Energy Facilities on Hartebeestpan Farm , near Christiana, North-West Province Legend - P.reMiai River Non-perennIal River - Po ..... er Une • OI!ltnbutlon SubstaUon 3 - Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase 2. DEFINITION OF A SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Burdge (1995) describes a Social Impact Assessment as the " ... systematic analysis in advance of the likely impacts a development event (or project) wi ll have on the day-to-day life (environmental) of persons and communities." A SIA therefore attempts to predict the probable impact of a development (before the development actually takes place) on people's way of life (how they live, work, play and interact with one another on a daily basis), their culture (their shared beliefs, customs and values) and their community (its cohesion, stability, character, services and facilities), by: • Appraising the social impacts resulting from the proposed project; • Relating the assessed socia l impacts of the project to future changes in the socio economic env ironments that are not aSSOCiated with it. This would serve to place the impacts of the project into context; • Using the measurements (rating) to determine whether the impacts would be negative, neutral or positive; • Determining the significance of the impacts; and • Proposing mitigation measurements. An SIA is thus concerned with the human dimensions of the environment, as it aims to balance socia l, economic and environmental objectives and seeks to predict, antiCipate and understand the potential impacts of development. Th e usefulness of an SIA as a planning too l is immediately clear, in that it can assist the project proponent to conceptuali se and implement a project in a manner which would see the identified negative social impacts addressed through avoidance or mitigation and the positive impacts realised and optimised. It would also allow the community to anticipate, plan for and deal with the social changes once they come into effect. In this sense then, the SIA is an indispensable part of the EIA, the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and any participative activity (e.g. community involvement in mitigation and monitoring during planning and implementation). 3. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT Th e purpose of this report is the following: • Provide an overview of the socio-economic environment and characteristics of the receiving environment; • Provide the findings of the preliminary social assessment undertaken during the Social Scoping Phase; 4 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase • Indicate the anticipated core impact categories and impact areas (possible hot spot s) ; and • Determine the need and content of future social studies to be undertaken as part of the detailed Social Impact Assessment during the EIA phase. The report thus aims to assist the project proponents, consu ltants and communities to identify social iss ues that have to be in co rporated as part of the detailed EIA Phase and which would serve to focus the EIA study. 4. APPROACH DURING THE SCOPING PHASE The broad steps fo ll owed as part of the social scoping study included: • Determining the scope of the assessment; • Preliminary literature review; • Projecting anticipated impacts; • Determining core areas of impact; and • Reporting. These steps are briefly outlined below. 4.1 Scope of the Assessment Based on information received from Savannah En vironmental, the scope of the assessment was determined. During the EIA phase, a site visit would be undertaken to further determine the scope of the assessm ent during the detailed EIA phase. 4.2 Literature Review, Analysis and Desktop Studies The literature review assisted the co nsultants in establishing the social setting and characteristics of the study area , as well as the key economic activities. Secondary data was gathered and ana lysed for the purposes of the study. Such data included maps, census data, internet sea rches, and municipal documents published by the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality and the Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality. 4.3 Projecting Anticipated Impacts Pre liminary antici pated impacts to be expected during the construction and operational phases have been identified and noted in the Scoping Report. 5 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scopinq Phase 4.4 Reporting Data and information received during the above three steps were included and presented as part of the Social Scoping Report. 5. KEY DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION 5.1 Municipal Background 5.1.1 Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality The Bophirima District Municipality recently underwent a name change to the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi District Municipality (RSM District Municipality) (www. lekwateemane.co.za) . It is one of four district municipa lities within the North West Province and the seat of the RSM District Municipality is situated in Vryburg. The RSM District Municipality contains five local municipalities, namely: • Greater Taung Local Municipality; • Naledi Local Municipality; • Mamusa Local Municipality; • Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality; and • Kagisano-Molopo Local Municipality. 5.1.2 Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality The study area falls within the jurisdiction of the Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality (LTLM), Ward 7. This municipality was established in 2000 from the disestablished municipalities of Christiana and Bloemhof, and includes the following towns and settlements: • Christiana; • Bloemhof; • Boitumelong; • Coverdale; • Geluksoord; • Salamat; and • Utlwanang (www.lekwateemane.co.za). Christiana is an agricultural town situated on the banks of the Vaal River along the N12 between Warrenton and Bloemhof. 6 Proposed Harte beestpa n PV Project Scoping Phase The town of Warrenton which falls within t he Northern Cape Province and the Magareng Local Municipality is approximately 23 km from the site. For the pu rpose of the report, the focus, however, would be placed on the town of Christiana and the Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality as the fa rm Hartebeestpan fa lls wit hin this municipality's area of jurisdiction. 5.2 population Dynamics 5 .2.1 Population Figures and Age Groups Within the LTLM, the population was estimated at 42 967 individuals in 2001 with approximately 25% of these individuals fa lling within the "youth" category (0 -17 years of age). The Community Survey of 2007, however estimated the population at 32 809 I individuals. With or without the decline in the figures, the LTLM remains the least populated municipality within the RSM District Municipality (LTLM !DP, 2008). The LTLM is experiencing an influx of foreigners to the urban nodes such as Christiana and Bloemhof, as well as Boitumelong and Utlwanang. These are mostly shop keepers opening businesses in these areas. The LTLM is therefore embarking on a programme to ensure that the outsiders and locals are properly integrated to avoid possible future conflict between the groupings (LTLM !DP, 2008). 5.3 Education levels Approximately 6% of the school going population within the LTLM have completed Grade 12 and on ly 2% have some tertiary education. Even though 18% have some form of secondary schooling, the general skills levels within the municipal area is of concern (LTLM !DP, 2008). The lack of skills among the community needs t o be addressed by making it possible for them to access jobs. Projects should be sustainable and attention should also be given to basic adult education programmes. 5.4 Employment 5tatus The farming sector is responsible for 25% of the employment in the area, followed by the mining sector (17%). The largest sector of the employment is thus within elementary positions within the primary sector, followed by private households (5%), social services (3%) and the trade (2%) sectors. Forty two percent (42%), however has been employed in a category named "other". No indications for this sector were given although it could include the informal sector (LTLM !DP, 2008). The majority of the households earn less than R3 200 per month (91%) which indicates the poverty levels found throughout the LTLM (LTLM !DP, 2008). 7 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project ScoDing Phase 5.5 Basic Services 5.5.1 Housing According to the Community Survey of 2007, 73% of the households in the LTLM stayed in formal housing structures. Even though various efforts have been made to improve the housing situation in the municipal area, there is still a large housing backlog that needs to be addressed. In 2008 (LTLM IDP, 2008) the housing backlog was estimated at 5 800 units which is quite a challenge for the size of the municipality. The availability of suitable land is also problematic as there are vast areas of land that needs to be rehabilitated as these were left un-rehabilitated after mining activities took place. There is a lack of housing available in Christiana and Bloemhof for the rental market. According to the LTLM IDP (2008) this results in a situation where the local municipality cannot attract outside skills due to this specific lack of accommodation for outsiders. 5 .5.2 Water and Waste Services The LTLM obtains its bulk water supply from the Bloemhof Dam and the Vaal River. The provision of proper water services is hampered by the ageing infrastructure (LTM L IDP, 2008). In 2007 (Community Survey), 30% of the households had piped water inside their dwellings, and another 30% had piped water inside their yards. On ly 20% made use of an access point outside their yard and 13% abstracted their water from a borehole (LTLM IDP, 2008). Th e latter could refer to those households living on the farms within the municipal area. During the Community Survey of 2007 it was indicated that 75% of households in the municipality make use of their own refuse dump, which is a concerning factor. Only 3% of the households' waste was removed by the local municipality and 20% indicated that they had no access to any type of waste disposal facil ity. Should these figures be correct, it is an issue that needs to be urgently addressed by the LTLM and the development of landfill sites in Bloemhof and Christiana have been prioritised (LTLM IDP, 2008). 5.5.3 Sanitation Services In 2001, Census figures indicated that 43% of the households in the municipality had no proper sanitation facilities and the rest of the households had some form of sa nitation system which was either a pit latrine, chemical toilet or flush toilets (LTLM IDP, 2008). According to the LTLM IDP (2008) approximately 5 000 households still required to be serviced with proper sanitation infrastructure. The development of informal settlements in Christiana and some other areas, exacerbates the problem. 8 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase 5.5.4 Electricity Provision The Community Survey of 2007 found that 60% of the households in the LTLM used electricity for lighting purposes, followed by 36% making use of candles. Forty seven percent (47%) also made use of electricity for heating and 51% for cooking purposes (LTLM IDP, 2008). 5.5.5 Health Services Christiana and Bloemhof each have one hospital. The LTLM IDP (2008) stated that there is a shortage of cl inics, staff, medication and doctors within the municipal area. Ambulance services are also poor and there is no proper disaster management plan in pla ce. Any disasters would be managed with the assistance of the District Municipality . The Municipality further does not have a dedicated office deal ing with HIVjAids and awareness programmes which hampers the successfu l implementation of the programmes. 5 .5.6 Roads and modes of transport The N12 is the main route through the municipal area. Various secondary roads link the smaller settlements and towns in the area. These roads' surfaces, however, are in poo r condition and the majority of these needs upgrading. Storm water management also need to be addressed especially in Utlwanang and Boitumelong ( LTLM IDP, 2008). Public transport in the area is not up to standard. Large numbers of people are employed outside the urban nodes. Private taxis are not allowed to commute between Bloemhof and Ch ristiana due to limited permits. People thus have to depend on lifts and informal transportation measures which create safety risks for motorist and individuals (LTLM IDP, 2008). 5.6 Resources and Land-Use The land use within the rural areas is mainly cattle and crop farming. Limited mining activities are taking place throughout the municipal region. Th e Vaal River is mainly used for tourist and leisure t ype of activities. 5.7 Tourism and Leisure The Bloemhof Dam situated on the Vaa l River is one of the main tourist attractions in the area with a number of activities taking place annually (e.g. fishing competitions and water festivals) (www.lekwateemane.co.za & LTLM IDP, 2008). The Aventura Vaa l Spa is also a popular resort 3 km north of Christiana. Other tourist attractions include the Diggers' Diamond Museum and San Bushman Rock Art on the Farm Stowlands 6km out of town, and 9 I Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Seoping Phase Stows Kopje with prehistoric rock engravings whi ch have been declared a national monument. Tourism, however, is not properly promoted and indications are that the municipality will be more dependent on tourism once the N12 treasure rou te has been completed. Even though on ly 5% of the area is allocat ed to nature reserve, the municipality will also focus on developing tourism around these sectors (LTLM !DP, 2008). 5.8 Economy The key drivers within the LTLM are the agricultural sector which inclu des production of beef, maize, sorghum, groundnuts and cotton, foll owed by the mining sector. A concerning iss ue is the slow decline in the mining sector as local employer ( LTLM !DP, 2008). The Beefmaster commercia l cattle farm within the Christiana area is a large employer within the LTLM. Other key businesses include Dairy Belle and the SA Lombard Nature Reserve (Bloemhof area), the Protea Resort, Westra (a producer of maize m ea l), as we ll as SA Feeds and Phosphates (a ll within the Christ iana area) (www.lekwateemane.co.za). The LTLM ( LTLM, 2006) has adopted five core drivers to unlock economic growth and to address the poverty in the region, namely: • Strengthen su pport for business an d SMME's access to funding; • Create an enabling envi ronment through governance and ad m in istrat ion; • Further expand marke t opportunities for tourism; • Loca l farming and mining support t hrough coordinated information and advice access points; and • Develop infrastructure facilities in the loca l authority's area. 6. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROPOSED PROJECT The following socio-econom ic impacts have the potentia l to materialise during the construction and operational phases of the proposed Hartebeestpan PV 2 project: • Th e proposed project could result in positive economic impacts in the North West Province (Christiana area and Lekwa-Teemane Local Mu nicipality) as well as in the Northern Ca pe Province and Magareng Local Municipality due to the location of Warrenton (which fa ll s wi thin this municipal area) to the fa rm Hartebeestpan. • Some employment opportunities wou ld be available for loca ls during the construction phase. The positions would focus on elementary construct ion related activities and 10 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase tasks. Even if these opportunities would only be temporary it could still serve as a positive chance for those individuals to obtain transferable skills. • As the skills levels in the area are quite low, training and skills development of local individuals, to enable them to secure permanent employment and/or obtain some technical skills during the construction phase, would be a key positive impact of the proposed project. • The influx of construction workers, whether they are outsiders or locals, would have negative impacts on the owners of the neighbouring and nearby properties. The intrusion impacts and safety and security concerns could be mitigated by proper management of the construction worker conduct, movement and the activities on site. • An influx of jobseekers to the construction area and larger site cannot be excluded even though the site is not on a main transport node or near an urban node. This could result in negative impacts with regards to general intrusions, littering, environmental pollution, noise and criminal activities. Some local jobseekers might also be unsuccessful in securing job opportunities which could result in conflict between these individuals seeking work. The ri sk of conflict between the local resident population and the jobseekers should also be noted as a possible negative impact. • The movement of construction vehicles to and from the site on the N12 is not at this stage foreseen to result in major negative impacts on the road surface and traffic patterns, although a more marked impact could materialise where the vehicles would have to travel on the local gravel road to site. Dust pollution along the route frequently travelled could have some negative impacts on crop production. • The daily li vi ng and movement patterns of the nearby landowners in the typical rural setting (low ambient) would possibly be negatively affected by the noise intrusions during the construction phase. • From a social perspective, it is at this stage not anticipated that the visual impact of the internal roads, PV panels and associated infrastructure would have a severe negative impact on the environment as there are already various disturbances experienced with the existing infrastructure traversing the proposed site. This would, however depend on the location of the nearest homesteads and other dwellings to the facility and whether it would be clearly and constantly visible to the neighbours. This impact and the subsequent negative impact on property values would be further assessed from a social perspective during the detailed SIA Phase and in conjunction with the Visual Impact Assessment. 11 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase • An increase in people movement could increase the fire risk in the area with the risk of the fires spreading to neighbouring properties with subsequent financial consequences for the owner of the PV facility and the affected farm owners. • During the co nstruction phase some temporary intrusions on nearby farming activities are anticipated and wou ld mainly include dust pollution. • Farming activities at the facility footprint would have to cease. The negative impacts associated with this impact cou ld be balanced by the selling or renting of the property to the project applicant. • Some local procurement of goods, materials and services could occur which would result in positive economic spin-offs, although very limited. • The proposed project is expected to put some additional pressure on the local emergency. and fire fighting services. This impact, however, could easily respond to mitigation and by ensuring that proper fire fighting eqUipment and vehicles to assist with fire fighting are available on site. • The most important potential social benefits associated with the co nstruction and operation of the PV facility refer to the improvement in the quality of life of those receiving improved or new electricity supply. The property owners who are impacted upon by the PV facility wou ld not necessarily experience this benefit. 7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 7.1 General Based on the initial assessment of the receiving environmen t it is not anticipated that there are, from a social perspective, any fatal flaws associated with the proposed Hartebeestpan PV 2 Project. At this stage it is antiCipated that the project cou ld have som e negative socia l impacts. Th e main negative impacts are associated with the intrusion impacts associated with the construction phase and possibly the permanent visual impact of the facility. The extent of the negative impacts and possible benefits would be further assessed during the EIA phase when these would be qualified and investigated in m ore detail. 8. SPECIALIST STUDY TO BE CONDUCTED DURING THE EIA PHASE 8.1 Further Literature Review A comprehensive literature review and analysis would be undertaken during the EIA phase of the project. This wou ld assist the co nsu ltants to acquire further demographic and socio- 12 Proposed Hartebeestoan PV Project ScoDing Phase economic information with regards to the receiving environment and to build on the initial profiling of the local population's socio-economic characteristics. 8.2 Consultation Sessions and Fieldwork During the EIA Phase additional primary data would also be gathered by means of consu ltation with the stakehold ers and affected parties, and linkages with the public participation process. 8.3 Analysis of data compiled by parallel studies If available, the social impact assessment team will study and ana lyse the information gathered by the biophysical studies (e.g. information related to technical, environmental, economic and demographic aspects and land-use changes, impact on other facilities, services, and so forth) done in parallel with the public participation process and social studies. This would assist the social team to assess the impact of the proposed development on the direct (surrounding communities) and indirect (regional) environment. 8.4 Variables to be assessed The following va ri ables would be typically assessed as part of the SIA (Burdge, 1995): • Population impacts; • Community/ institutional arrangements; • Conflicts between local residents and newcomers; • Individual and Family level impacts; • Community infrastructure needs; and • Intrusion impacts. For the purpose of assessing the impacts associated with the proposed project, the above variables wi ll be adapted to allow for the assessment undertaken during the EIA phase. These variables wou ld relate to the construction and operational phases of the proposed project. 8 .5 Significance Criteria During the EIA phase, the anticipated social impacts would be rated according to a specific rating approach which would include the extent of the impact, the probability of the impact occurring, the magnitude, the duration of the impact and its significance, as stipulated by Savannah EnVironmental. It is important to note that this rating approach, which would 13 I Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase indicate the intensity of each impact, as well as the mitigation proposed, cou ld result in a change in the status of t he impacts as identified as part of the Scoping process. 8.6 Reporting The Social Impact Assessment Report cou ld include the following: • A background description of the social environment including demographic and socio economic characteristics, land-use profile, infrastructure requirements etc.; • A background description of the local economy; • Linkages with the integrated development planning processes in the area; • An assessment of the anticipated social impacts - negative and positive (including core aspects needing attention); • Rating of impacts; • Formulation of specific mitigating strategies to minimise negative social impacts and enhance positive impacts of the proposed development; • Conclusions and recommendations (also for further studies, if necessary). 9. SOURCES CONSULTED 9.1 Documents Becker, H.A. (1997). Social Impact Assessment: Method and experience in Europe, North America and the developing world. UCL Press: London Becker, H.A. & Vanclay, F. (eds) (2003). The International Handbook of Social Impact Assessment: Conceptual and Methodological Adva nces . Edward Elgar: Cheltenham Burdge, R.J. 1995. A community guide to Social Impact Assessment. Social Ecology Press. Middleton Finsterbusch, K., Ll ewellyn, L.G. & Wolf, c.P. (eds) (1983). Social Impact Assessment Methods. Sage Publications: Beverly Hills Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality. 2008. Reviewed Integrated Development Plan 2008/ 2009 Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality. 2006. Strategic Framework for Local Economic Development 2006/ 2007 9.2 Websites www.demarcation.org.za 14 Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project ScoDing Phase www.lekwa teemane.co.za 15 I Proposed Hartebeestpan PV Project Scoping Phase 10. APPENDIX A: QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE OF SPECIALIST Ms. Ingrid Snyman holds a BA Honours degree in Anthropology. She has fourteen years' experience in the social field. Ms. Snyman has been involved in various Social Impact Assessments during her career as socia l scientist. These project themes consist of infrastructure development, waste management, road development, water and sanitation programmes, township and other residential type developments. She has also been involved in the designing and managing of numerous public participation programmes and communication strategies, particularly on complex development projects that require various levels and approaches. Ms . Snyman has no vested interest in the outcome of t he project and hereby declares her independence with regard to the study undertaken for the above mentioned project. 16 - • .. Vl ~ D- ro >< . ~ ::E -0 ...., C u QJ .,...., Legend -- National Road - Reg ional Road -- Secondary Road ~ Railway Li ne -- Perennial River --- Non-peren nial River _ - 0 Power Li ne • Distri bution Substation D Farm Portions Christiana PV2 (75MW) Hartebeestpan Farm North-West Province National Road lOPOGRAPHYISHADED RELIEF Elevation above sea level (m) IZl Arterial/Main Road . 1200 IZl Secondary Road . 1210 • Town/Built-up Area . 1220 • RiverlWaterbody 1230 ~ Residence/Homestead 0 1240 Powerline o 0 1250 J Substation e 0 1260 m Proposed Site for the oL _._ .. _ I._:_ 01 __... 11 1?70 - Christiana PV2 (75MW) Hartebeestpan Farm North-West Province o National Road LAND COVER/BROAD LAND USE PATTERNS [ZJ ArterialIMain Road Thicket and Bushland o Secondary Road Grassland _ Town/Built-up Area _ Wetland _ River/Waterbody Degraded Land o Resid ence/Homestead .. Irrigated Agriculture o Power Line _ Dryland Agriculture [ ] Substation Mines and Quarries (surface-based m ining) m Proposed Site for t he oI- _a_ . . _ I. _: _ 01_-... Christiana PV2 (75MW) Hartebeestpan Farm North-West Province 6km ------'ir- -- ... \ \ PRELIMINARY VISIBILITY ANALYSIS Arterial/Main Road lZJ Potentially visible IZI Secondary Road D Not visible .. Town/ Built-up Area .,' Proximity radii to the proposed development site .. River/Waterbody Notes: o Residence/Homestead - The viewshed analysis does not include the effect .0 Power Line of planted vegetation and lor structures. - Visibility was calculated at a maximum offset of 2m n Substation above ground level (i.e. the approximate height of m Proposed Site for the the PV panels). 01..._ .. _ • • _,... _:_ ",1 __... o 0 _P0:WI""II ___ /UI __ o_ II"". I Solar Energy Facilities on Hartebeestpan Farm , near Christiana, North-West Province Legend - National Road - Regional Road -- Secondary Road ~ Railway Line -- Perennial River < - - - Non-perennial River • . '..... ~- .-~ _ 0 Power Line . \ • Distribution Substation D Farm Portions , , ' . , .0" .... ! ,,~ .