Initial Environmental Examination
Project Number: 48325-001 July 2015
PHI: 150 MW Burgos Wind Farm Project Transmission Line and Jetty
Section 5 – Noise and Vibration Assessment Section 6 – Biodiversity and Conservation
(Part 3 of 14)
Prepared by EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation and the Asian Development Bank.
The initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “Terms of Use” section of this website.
In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.
Table of contents
1. Introduction...... 0
2. Project Description ...... 0
3. Assessment Methodology ...... 0 4. Land Use Assessment ...... 0
5. Noise and Vibration Assessment ...... 5-1 5.1 Introduction ...... 5-1 5.2 Noise Assessment ...... 5-8 5.3 Methodology ...... 5-8 5.4 Noise Receptors ...... 5-9 5.5 Baseline Noise Conditions ...... 5-9 5.6 Construction Phase Assessment ...... 5-14 5.7 Operation Phase Assessment ...... 5-14 5.8 Conclusions ...... 5-16 5.9 References ...... 5-17
Table index
Table 5-1 Description of Sampling Sites along the Transmission Route and at the Jetty ...... 5-4
Table 5-2 Assessment criteria for noise (NPCC MC 1980-002) ...... 5-8 Table 5-3 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N1: Jetty area, Barangay Ablan, Municipality of Burgos ...... 5-9
Table 5-4 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N2: Kapurpurawan, Barangay Saoit, Municipality of Burgos ...... 5-10
Table 5-5 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N3: Tower 053, Barangay Davila, Municipality of Pasuquin ...... 5-10 Table 5-6 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N4: Tower 085, Barangay Susugaen, Municipality of Pasuquin ...... 5-10
Table 5-7 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N5: Tower 107, Barangay Ngabangab, Municipality of Pasuquin ...... 5-11
Table 5-8 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N6: Tower 119, Barangay 29 Pasngal, Municipality of Bacarra ...... 5-11 Table 5-9 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N7: Tower 140, Barangay 55A Barit, Municipality of Laoag ...... 5-12
Table 5-10 Summary of average baseline noise levels for a period of 2 hours for 24 hours ...... 5-12 Table 5-11 Permissible noise exposure (DOLE, 1989)...... 5-15
Table 5-12 Key impacts and proposed mitigation/enhancement measures ...... 5-17
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Figure index
Figure 5-1 Location of noise sampling stations ...... 5-2
Figure 5-2 Location of sensitive receptors against noise sampling stations ...... 5-3 Figure 5-3 Summarised arithmetic median noise levels across stations over the 24-hr sampling period ...... 5-13
Figure 5-4 Vibration dampers found at one of the transmission lines of the project ...... 5-16
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | ii
5. Noise and Vibration Assessment
5.1 Introduction
GHD commissioned CRL Calabarquez Corporation to undertake the ambient noise sampling along the jetty and transmission line of the Burgos Wind Farm Project. This section covers the noise and vibration impact assessment in relation to the operation of the jetty located at the Municipality of Burgos and transmission lines traversing the municipalities of Burgos, Pasuquin, Bacarra and Laoag in the Province of Ilocos Norte, Philippines.
Noise levels over a 24-hour averaging period were taken at selected sampling stations from 19 to 26 November 2014. A total of seven sampling stations were established at the project site. The sampling stations considered in this assessment were placed near sensitive receptors, such as households and schools, which were found near the jetty and transmission lines. Locations of the seven stations and sensitive receptors within a one-kilometre radius from the sampling point are presented in Figure 5-1 and Figure 5-2, respectively. A general site description for each station is shown in Table 5-1.
No baseline sampling on vibration has been undertaken in this study; however potential impacts of the project concerning vibration have been included in the mitigating section.
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 5-1
235,000 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000
❙❛♠♣❧ ✐ ♥❣ ■❉ ❊❛ ✐ ♥❣ ◆ ♦ ❤✐ ♥❣
✷✹✽✶✾✵✳✵✷ ✷✵✺✵✼✽✻✳✶✸ ✶ N2
N1
✷✺✶✽✼✺✳✽✵ ✷✵✺✶✷✻✾✳✽✹ ✷ Jetty >!
! Buraan il
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x4
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2,050,000 w 2,050,000
ra
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ap
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Bangui
Burgos 2,045,000 2,045,000
N3 >! 2,040,000 2,040,000 2,035,000 2,035,000
W e s t N4 Philippine >!
S e a Pasuquin 2,030,000 2,030,000
N5 >! 2,025,000 2,025,000
Vintar N6 >! Baccara River
Bacarra 2,020,000 2,020,000
N7 Laoag >! City a L Pa d z Ro a Piddig Padsan River P. Gomez St 2,015,000 2,015,000
235,000 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 LEGEND >! Noise Sampling Station Transmission Line
Highway A! Jetty Road
Municipality
Job Number 71-12098 Paper Size A3 EDC Burgos Wind Prower Revision 0 0 2.5 5 ESIA for the Transmission Line and Jetty Project Date 18 Jan 2016 Kilometers Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: WGS 1984 Grid: WGS 1984 UTM Zone 51N o Location of Noise Sampling Station Figure 5-1 G:\71\12098\GIS\Maps\MXD\BurgosTL&Jetty\Rev 0\7112098_Fig5-1_NoiseSampling_rev0.mxd11/F Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City 1232 Philippines T 63 2 479 5600 F 63 2 479 5601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com © 2016. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, EDC and NAMRIA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: EDC - Transmission Towers and Line (2014). NAMRIA - Municipality, Road, River. Created by:jcmatic
235,000 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000
❙❛♠♣❧ ✐ ♥❣ ■❉ ❊❛ ✐ ♥❣ ◆ ♦ ❤✐♥❣
✷✹✽✶✾✵✳✵✷ ✷✵✺✵✼✽✻✳✶✸ ✶ N2
N1
✷✺✶✽✼✺✳✽✵ ✷✵✺✶✷✻✾✳✽✹ ✷ Jetty >!
!>! Buraan nm
✷✹✹✻✸✽✳✽✶ ✷✵✹✷✽✹✹✳✼✺ ✸ A
River nm
✹ ✷✹✼✹✵✵✳✶✼ ✷✵✸✷✺✸✹✳✵✷
2,050,000 2,050,000
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✻ nm
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Bangui
nm Burgos 2,045,000 2,045,000
nm N3 >! 2,040,000 2,040,000 2,035,000 2,035,000
W e s t N4 Philippine >!
S e a Pasuquin 2,030,000 2,030,000 nmnm nm N5 >! 2,025,000 2,025,000
Vintar nm N6 >! Baccara River
Bacarra 2,020,000 2,020,000
N7 Laoag >! City
Piddig Padsan River 2,015,000 nm nmnm 2,015,000 nm 235,000 240,000 245,000nmnm 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 LEGEND >! Air Sampling Station Transmission Line Municipality
Highway A! Jetty Road nm Schools 1 km Buffer from Air sampling station
Job Number 71-12098 Paper Size A3 EDC Burgos Wind Prower Revision 0 0 2.5 5 ESIA for the Transmission Line and Jetty Project Date 19 Jan 2016 Kilometers Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Location of Sensitve Receptor Horizontal Datum: WGS 1984 Grid: WGS 1984 UTM Zone 51N o Against Noise Sampling Station Figure 5-2 G:\71\12098\GIS\Maps\MXD\BurgosTL&Jetty\Rev 0\7112098_Fig5-2_NoiseReceptor_rev0.mxd11/F Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City 1232 Philippines T 63 2 479 5600 F 63 2 479 5601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com © 2016. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, EDC and NAMRIA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: EDC - Transmission Towers and Line (2014). NAMRIA - Municipality, Road, River. Created by:jcmatic
Table 5-1 Description of Sampling Sites along the Transmission Route and at the Jetty
Sampling ID Site description/observation Photo documentation A1/N1: Jetty Area, The sampling site is situated along a gravel dirt road located near Barangay Ablan, the Jetty area in Burgos and is surrounded by vegetation. The site Municipality of Burgos is approximately 100 m northwest of the main highway. Sensitive receptors in the vicinity are located southeast of the station, which include a gasoline station and public elementary that are about 50 m and 130 m away, respectively. Strong winds were generally observed throughout the duration of the sampling activity.
N 18°31’57.6” E 120°36’52.7” Elev. 14 masl
A2/N2: Kapurpurawan The sampling site is located within the Burgos Wind Farm, Barangay Saoit, particularly on the west side entrance leading to the Kapurpurawan Municipality of Burgos Rock Formation. The station is about 60 m south (downwind) from the coastline, 40 m northeast (upwind) from the nearest access road and 60 m northeast (upwind) from the nearest wind turbine. The closest transmission tower (No. 02) and substation is about 470 m and 490 m away, respectively south of the station. The area is situated on a rolling terrain surrounded by grass and shrubs. A small tourist shopping area is located 30 m southeast of the station, whilst 470 m and 440 m north of the substation and closest transmission tower (No.01), accordingly. Strong winds were generally observed throughout the duration of the sampling activity.
N 18°32’14.9” E 120°38’58.1” Elev. 27 masl
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Sampling ID Site description/observation Photo documentation A3/N3: Tower 053, The sampling site is located in a garlic plantation field next to a Barangay Davila, transmission tower. The station is about 30 m south of a river and Municipality of Pasuquin is ~1.4 km east from the main highway. The area is situated on a generally flat terrain. The nearest household is about 50 m downwind or southwest of the station. Fair weather and windy conditions were observed throughout the sampling activity.
N 18°27’37.9” E 120°34’55.3” Elev. 13 masl
A4/N4: Tower 085, The sampling site is located in a middle of a garlic plantation field Barangay Susugaen, next to a transmission tower. The station is situated on a flat terrain Municipality of Pasuquin and is around 40 m north from the barangay road. The closest households are about 40 m downwind or southwest of the station. Cattle were seen grazing nearby. Fair to sunny weather and windy conditions were observed throughout the sampling activity.
N 18°22’03.9” E 120°36’34.0” Elev. 5 masl
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Sampling ID Site description/observation Photo documentation A5/N5: Tower 107, The sampling site is located in a garlic plantation field next to a Barangay Ngabangab, transmission tower. The station is situated on a flat terrain and is Municipality of Pasuquin about 30 m northwest from the nearest access road. The nearest households are about 20 m downwind or southeast of the station. A goat bleating was spotted near the sampling station. Motor from an irrigation pump nearby could be heard as well as kids playing in the vicinity. Fair to sunny weather conditions were generally observed throughout the sampling activity.
N 18°18’41.4” E 120°36’42.1” Elev. 18 masl
A6/N6: Tower 119, The sampling site is located adjacent to a corn field plantation and Barangay. 29 Pasngal, is 40 m east of the transmission line. The station is situated on a Municipality of Bacarra flat terrain and is about 30 m and 40 m north from the nearest access road and irrigation creek, respectively. The nearest households are located about 15 m south and 30 m northeast of the station. Goats bleating were heard near the sampling station. Fair to sunny weather conditions were generally observed throughout the sampling activity.
N 18°16’37.9” E 120°35’55.3” Elev. 14 masl
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Sampling ID Site description/observation Photo documentation A7/N7: Tower 140, The sampling site is located within a residential area adjacent to the Barangay. 55A–Barit, transmission line. The station sits on a rolling terrain and is about Municipality of Laoag 20 m east of the nearest access road. Households are located proximate to the station. Goats bleating were heard near the sampling station. Fair to sunny weather conditions were generally observed throughout the sampling activity.
N 18°13’13.5” E 120°36’00.6” Elev. 32 masl
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5.2 Noise Assessment
According to the EHS Guidelines for Electric Power and Transmission Lines (IFC, 2007), the applicability of the EHS Guidelines should be tailored to the hazards and risks established for each project on the basis of the results of an environmental assessment in which site specific variables, such as host country context, assimilative capacity of the environment, and other project factors, are taken into account. When the host country regulations differ from the levels and measures presented in the EHS Guidelines, projects are expected to achieve whichever is more stringent.
For this study, the 1980 National Pollution Control Commission No. 002, Series of 1980 (NPCC MC 1980-002) standards (Table 5-2) have been ensued. Table 5-2 Assessment criteria for noise (NPCC MC 1980-002) Classification Description Morning Daytime Evening Nighttime (0500H- (0900H- (1800H- (2200H- 0900H) 1800H) 2200H) 0500H) AA A section or contiguous area 45 50 45 40 which requires quietness, such as areas within 100 m from nurseries and school sites, hospitals and special homes for the aged A (a) A section or contiguous area 50 55 50 45 which is primarily used for residential purposes B A section or contiguous area 60 65 60 55 which is used for heavy industries C (b) A section or contiguous area 65 70 65 60 which is used for light industries D A section or contiguous area 70 75 70 65 which is primarily reserved, zoned or used for heavy industries
Note: a Stations N3, N4, N5, N6 and N7 b Station N1 and N2
The land use area at the Jetty is classified as rocky/coral reef whereas Station 2 is classified as wood/timberland based on the Burgos general land use map. The rest of the stations were categorised as residential areas based on their respective land use maps.
5.3 Methodology
A digital sound level meter (precision type) was used in the noise monitoring activity conducted by CRL Calabarquez Corporation. The equipment, Lutron SL-4011, is a class Type 2 unit that has a weighting of 30 dB and maximum of 130 dB and resolution of 0.1 dB. A Type 2 meter is the minimum requirement by OSHA for noise measurements, and is usually sufficient for general purpose noise surveys. The noise meter has an internal oscillation system with 1 Khz square wave generator for calibration (Appendix G). The (A) weighting frequency characteristic was measured, which is simulated as the “Human Ear Listing” response. This is typically used when measuring environmental sound levels. A “fast” time weighting was selected, which
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 5-8
reflects the human ear response time weighting. Measurements were conducted at least 3.5 m away from any acoustically reflective surface such as a fence or wall and readings were taken at least 1.2 to 1.5 m above the ground. For this assessment, noise readings were monitored in a period of one minute facing the North direction of the sampling station. The lowest and highest noise levels monitored were manually recorded as indicated in the instrument. This procedure was then repeated to measure noise levels from the East, West and South directions every two hours from the start of monitoring to produce 12 sets of data that will represent a 24-hr measurement.
Based on the NPCC methods (Ch. IV, Article I, Sec. 78) the ambient noise level standards are applied to the arithmetic median of at least seven readings at the point of maximum level and that the division of the 24-hr period shall be in accordance to the morning, daytime, evening and nightime periods as shown in Table 5-2. In accordance with the NPCC methods, CRL computed for the arithmetic median for every time interval (two hours) by arranging the noise data from lowest to highest (total of eight noise measurements) and getting the average of the two middle values.
5.4 Noise Receptors
To determine the existing noise conditions at areas perceived to be affected by the project, noise stations were strategically established at sensitive receptors to get representative samples from at least each of the concerned municipalities and/or nearby stakeholders (refer to Figure 5-2).
5.5 Baseline Noise Conditions
Table 5-3 to Table 5-9 present the noise measurement results conducted from the seven sampling locations in comparison with the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the 1978 NPCC of the Philippines. The measured average noise level were recorded in decibels, which ranged from 39.3 dB(A) to 92.4 dB(A).
Table 5-3 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N1: Jetty area, Barangay Ablan, Municipality of Burgos Sampling Time Arithmetic DENR Standard Remarks 19–20 November Median dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class C 0830H–1030H 88.3 70 Exceeded 1030H–1230H 77.1 70 Exceeded 1230H–1430H 77.1 70 Exceeded 1430H–1630H 77.5 70 Exceeded 1630H–1830H 67.4 70 Within 1830H–2030H 64.4 65 Within 2030H–2230H 62.5 65 Within 2230H–0030H 61.2 60 Exceeded 0030H–0230H 63.5 60 Exceeded 0230H–0430H 63.4 60 Exceeded 0430H–0630H 61.7 65 Within 0630H–0830H 65.5 65 Slightly Exceeded
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Table 5-4 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N2: Kapurpurawan, Barangay Saoit, Municipality of Burgos Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 20–21 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class C 0905H–1105H 61.7 70 Within 1105H–1305H 60.7 70 Within 1305H–1505H 59.5 70 Within 1505H–1705H 59.2 70 Within 1705H–1905H 59.6 70 Within 1905H–2105H 59.3 65 Within 2105H–2305H 58.5 65 Within 2305H–0105H 57.2 60 Within 0105H–0305H 56.9 60 Within 0305H–0505H 49.1 60 Within 0505H–0705H 48.0 65 Within 0705H–0905H 47.6 65 Within
Table 5-5 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N3: Tower 053, Barangay Davila, Municipality of Pasuquin Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 21–22 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 0955H–1155H 44.7 55 Within 1155H–1355H 44.3 55 Within 1355H–1555H 43.9 55 Within 1555H–1755H 44.1 55 Within 1755H–1955H 45.5 55 Within 1955H–2155H 44.5 50 Within 2155H–2355H 44.2 50 Within 2355H–0155H 43.8 45 Within 0155H–0355H 43.9 45 Within 0355H–0555H 45.2 45 Slightly exceeded 0555H–0755H 44.5 50 Within 0755H–0955H 44.9 50 Within Table 5-6 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N4: Tower 085, Barangay Susugaen, Municipality of Pasuquin Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 22–23 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 1105H–1305H 46.2 55 Within 1305H–1505H 46.3 55 Within 1505H–1705H 46.3 55 Within 1705H–1905H 45.4 55 Within 1905H–2105H 46.0 50 Within
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Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 22–23 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 2105H–2305H 49.0 50 Within 2305H–0105H 43.4 45 Within 0105H–0305H 42.8 45 Within 0305H–0505H 43.6 45 Within 0505H–0705H 47.8 50 Within 0705H–0905H 51.0 50 Exceeded 0905H–1105H 51.2 55 Within Table 5-7 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N5: Tower 107, Barangay Ngabangab, Municipality of Pasuquin Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 23–24 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 1210H–1410H 43.1 55 Within 1410H–1610H 43.5 55 Within 1610H–1810H 49.5 55 Within 1810H–2010H 44.0 50 Within 2010H–2210H 40.4 50 Within 2210H–0010H 40.5 45 Within 0010H–0210H 39.1 45 Within 0210H–0410H 40.3 45 Within 0410H–0610H 42.9 45 Within 0610H–0810H 43.7 50 Within 0810H–1010H 42.9 50 Within 1010H–1210H 43.0 55 Within Table 5-8 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N6: Tower 119, Barangay 29 Pasngal, Municipality of Bacarra
Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 24–25 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 1415H–1615H 45.5 55 Within 1615H–1815H 47.6 55 Within 1815H–2015H 45.0 50 Within 2015H–2215H 42.9 50 Within 2215H–0015H 44.0 45 Within 0015H–0215H 46.4 45 Exceeded 0215H–0415H 45.3 45 Slightly exceeded 0415H–0615H 45.3 45 Slightly exceeded 0615H–0815H 45.7 50 Within 0815H–1015H 44.5 50 Within 1015H–1215H 44.5 55 Within 1215H–1415H 43.7 55 Within
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Table 5-9 Recorded 24-hr noise measurements in station N7: Tower 140, Barangay 55A Barit, Municipality of Laoag Sampling Time Arithmetic Median DENR Standard Remarks 25–26 November dB(A) Maximum Allowable 2015 Noise Level, dB(A) for Class A 1630H–1830H 47.5 55 Within 1830H–2030H 51.7 50 Exceeded 2030H–2230H 47.8 50 Within 2230H–0030H 43.1 45 Within 0030H–0230H 43.0 45 Within 0230H–0430H 42.5 45 Within 0430H–0630H 44.1 45 Within 0630H–0830H 44.4 50 Within 0830H–1030H 43.6 50 Within 1030H–1230H 44.4 55 Within 1230H–1430H 44.5 55 Within 1430H–1630H 44.7 55 Within
The noise levels above were arranged and averaged according to its time category (i.e. daytime, evening, nighttime and morning), which are summarised in Table 5-10 and Figure 5-3 below. The complete noise data, including its minimum and maximum readings at various wind directions and sampling remarks are presented in Appendix H.
Table 5-10 Summary of average baseline noise levels for a period of 2 hours for 24 hours Summarised N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 DENR standard per time Arithmetic category Median per station in dB(A) Sampling Date 19-20 20-21 21-22 22-23 23-24 24-25 25-26 Class Class Class Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. A B C 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 Daytime 77.5 60.1 44.5 46.9 44.8 45.3 45.3 55 65 70 (0900H-1800H) Evening 63.5 58.9 44.4 47.5 42.2 44.0 49.8 50 60 65 (1800H-2200H) Nighttime 62.7 54.4 44.3 43.3 40.7 45.3 43.2 45 55 60 (2200H-0500H) Morning 63.6 47.8 44.7 49.4 43.3 45.1 44.0 50 60 65 (0500H-900H) Note: Class A: Stations N3, N4, N5, N6 and N7 Class C: Station N1 and N2
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Figure 5-3 Summarised arithmetic median noise levels across stations over the 24-hr sampling period
Based on the results, the average noise levels at the Jetty (N1) exceeded the allowable noise levels for Class C during the daytime and nighttime by as much as 7.5 dB(A) and 2.7 dB(A), respectively. Although the noise meter had a windshield in place, the high noise levels measured in N1 may be attributed to the natural background noise generated by the strong winds near the coast prevailing from east to west at speeds ranging from 1.85 to 4.55 m/s. Occasional passing of vehicles in the area and cumulative noise arising from insects and animals in the vicinity may have also contributed to its exceedance as observed during the sampling activity.
The highest noise levels at N1 were recorded between 0830H–1630H with arithmetic median readings ranging from 77.1 to 88.3 dB(A), which gradually decreased throughout the day. It was between 1230H and 1630H when on-going construction/renovation works at the gasoline station was also noted within the area of N1. The Jetty was not in operation during the noise sampling conduct. Average noise levels measured within the wind farm project, specifically near Kapurpurawan (N2), were within the prescribed criteria for Class C noise levels.
Recorded average noise levels at residential areas along the transmission line (i.e. N3, N4, N5, N6 and N7) were within acceptable noise levels for Class A apart from the nighttime sampling period in N6. Station N6 had average noise levels of 45.3 dB(A) measured at nighttime, which was slightly above the Class A nighttime limit of 45 dB(A). In particular, noise levels recorded from 0015H to 0615H had mean readings between 45.3 and 46.4 dB(A).
Isolated noise levels in a few stations in residential areas were above the limits during certain time intervals only, however based on its average arithmetic median, these were overall within their allowable noise levels in the given time period.
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5.6 Construction Phase Assessment
Noise from the construction of the jetty was confined to a small area only. During its construction, noise generated appeared to be minimal and limited to the unloading of fill material (e.g. gravel) and use of heavy equipment during vegetation clearing. No vibration- related construction activities (such as pile-driving) were undertaken at the jetty. A mechanical compaction machine and roller were operated during construction although vibration impact of these equipment was deemed insignificant.
Noise produced from the assembly of the transmission lines and towers and construction of the substations were temporary and localised. Noise arising from the transportation and installation of equipment at the project site were the identified impact sources. The use of heavy equipment, such as backhoes for land clearing and trucks for hauling spoils or excess soil material from the site, have created noise during transportation only. Noise produced from these equipment were minimal and limited since working schedules were restricted to daytime hours only.
5.7 Operation Phase Assessment
5.7.1 Potential Sources of Impact
During operations, perceived noises arising from activities at the jetty are deemed minimal (almost negligible) and temporary only. Noise may come from the docking and disembarking of ships in the area, which may include the unloading of heavy equipment and movement of light and/or heavy vehicles to and from the site. Also, noise resulting from strong winds blowing at the jetty area may have the potential to affect hearing conditions of personnel working at longer exposure periods at the site. Noise emissions from heavy vehicles (e.g. sound from engine running, use of hazard lights or horns) have likewise the potential to disturb communities that are along the road during transportation and/or maintenance of transmission lines/towers.
During windy conditions, transmission cables have the tendency to vibrate, especially those between towers that are far apart or at the trough of the suspended transmission lines. Power lines that undulate or swing may produce noise as a result of the wind-induced oscillation or vibration along the suspended cables.
A humming noise may also be produced eventually when the transmission line gets older (PSCW, 2013). It is usually the result of conductor mounting hardware that has loosened slightly over the years, which may however be easily repaired during maintenance.
Transmission lines may also produce sizzles, crackles, or hissing sounds which can occur during periods of high humidity. These are usually associated with high-voltage transmission lines and are very weather dependent (PSCW, 2013). They are caused by the ionization of electricity in the moist air near the wires. This may result in a partial discharge of electrical energy called a “corona”, which is a phenomenon associated with all transmission lines.
5.7.2 Evaluation of Impacts and Mitigation Measures
The perceived noise impacts from the activities at the Jetty are close to negligible during operation due to the few moving equipment that are utilised. Although high ambient average noise levels during the daytime were recorded above the Class C standards at station N1, these are within the occupational threshold limit for noise values. The threshold limit values refer to sound pressure that represents conditions under which it is believed that nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed without adverse effect on their ability to hear and understand normal speech (DOLE-OSHC, 1989). However, if noise levels will exceed the permissible noise exposure as prescribed by the Department of Labor and Employment–Occupational Safety and Health Standards (Table 5-11) during operations at the jetty (e.g. transporting of equipment),
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control measures such as the use of ear plugs may be needed depending on the cumulative noise measured. At this point however, control measures may not be necessary. Table 5-11 Permissible noise exposure (DOLE, 1989) Duration per day Sound Levels Duration per day Sound Levels (hours) (dBA, slow response) (hours) (dBA, slow response) 8 90 1-1/2 102 6 92 1 105 4 95 1/2 110 3 97 1/4 115 2 100
During wet and humid conditions, there is a tendency for water to accumulate on the conductors of transmission lines and may increase partial discharge or corona activity. Under these conditions, a crackling or humming sound may be produced in the immediate vicinity. In order to reduce such noise, several control measures have been considered to reduce the corona discharge effect. Among which include the installation of corona rings, which are smooth round rings designed to distribute charge across a wider area thereby reducing the electric field emitted. The application of surface treatments such as semiconductor layer, high voltage putty or corona dope also can also minimise corona; however all these measures do not guarantee a reduction, or removal of noise. A tenant adjacent to station N5 had observed crackling sounds generating from the transmission lines at certain occasions, e.g. during rains, this was not captured during the sampling conduct as dry conditions were observed throughout the duration of the noise sampling activity. According to the tenant, the noise is not disturbing although it could be heard anytime of the day. Its duration and frequency however was undetermined. The noise emitted from this particular tower is not a result of corona activity since the conductors are relatively new. The corona effect is usually an indication of a faulty design, installation and/or poor material. The noise observed by the tenant may likely be the natural crackling sound emitted when moisture comes into contact with the conductors. Given that portions of the Burgos transmission line are proximate to the sea, the probability of humid conditions is high; therefore, the noise arising from this setting is inevitable.
Wind-induced vibrations along the transmission lines also emit noise. This may be reduced by installation of vibration dampers, which are used to control vibration of overhead conductors. It has a steel messenger cable with two metallic weights attached to its ends (Figure 5-4). Though this noise is audible to those very close to the transmission lines, it quickly dissipates however with distance and is easily drowned out by typical background noises.
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Figure 5-4 Vibration dampers found at one of the transmission lines of the project
5.8 Conclusions
Overall, baseline noise levels recorded resulted from natural causes and not from the current operations of the jetty and transmission lines. Noise and vibration impacts during the operation of the jetty and transmission line however are expected not to affect sensitive receptors or stakeholders in the project vicinity even if the sensitive receptors are within 15 -50 m of these structures. Summary of impacts and proposed mitigation measures are presented in Table 5-12.
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Table 5-12 Key impacts and proposed mitigation/enhancement measures
Key impacts Phases Potential significance Options for prevention/ Construction Operation TL Jetty mitigation or
enhancement Increase in Low Low Control measures are ambient not necessary but if noise levels noise level exceed the permissible level, use of ear plugs may be necessary.
Crackling or High None Installation of corona humming rings sound Application of surface treatments
Noise Low None Installation of vibration produced by dampers wind-induced vibrations
5.9 References
✁ CRL, 2015. EDC Transmission & Jetty Project Environmental Social and Impact Assessment, Ilocos Norte. Ambient Air Quality and Noise Monitoring Report.
✁ Department of Environment, Parks, Heritage and the Arts. Noise Measurement Procedures Manual, 2nd Edition (2008). Tasmania, Australia.
✁ DOLE, 1986. Department of Labor and Employment–Occupational Safety and Health Standards, as amended. Sections 1974.01 (p202) and 1074:02-03 (pp29-30).
✁ GHD, 2014. EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report.
✁ IFC, 2007. Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines for Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. International Finance Corporation World Bank Group. pages 13-14.
✁ Lutron Electronic Enterprise Co., Ltd. Sound Level Meter User’s Manual, 0212-SL-4011. Taiwan.
✁ NPCC MC# 002, Series of 1980: Amendments to Article I (Noise Control Regulations), Chapter IV (Miscellaneous Regulations). National Pollution Control Commission. Manila, Philippines.
✁ PSCW, 208. Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. Environmental Impacts of Transmission Lines. http://www.psc.wi.gov. Date accessed: 9 January 2015
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Table of contents
1. Introduction...... 1
2. Project Description ...... 1
3. Assessment Methodology ...... 1 4. Land Use Assessment ...... 1
5. Noise and Vibration Assessment ...... 1
6. Terrestrial Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation ...... 6-1 6.1 Introduction ...... 6-1 6.2 Assessment methodology ...... 6-1 6.2.1 Terrestrial Flora ...... 6-1 6.2.2 Terrestrial Fauna ...... 6-11 6.2.3 Ecosystem services ...... 6-17 6.3 Baseline environmental conditions ...... 6-17 6.3.1 Terrestrial flora ...... 6-17 6.3.2 Terrestrial fauna ...... 6-32 6.3.3 Ecosystem services ...... 6-37 6.4 Impact assessment ...... 6-42 6.4.1 Potential sources of impact ...... 6-42 6.4.2 Evaluation of impacts and mitigation measures ...... 6-45 6.5 Conclusions ...... 6-51 6.5.1 Terrestrial flora ...... 6-51 6.5.2 Terrestrial fauna ...... 6-51 6.5.3 Ecosystem services ...... 6-51 6.6 References ...... 6-53
Table index
Table 6-1 Location and description of sampling sites ...... 6-3
Table 6-2 Classification criteria of sampling ...... 6-10
Table 6-3 Fernando (1998) biodiversity scale ...... 6-11
Table 6-4 Description of sampling areas along the transmission line route and selected adjacent areas ...... 6-14 Table 6-5 Population density of three layers of the six transects ...... 6-18
Table 6-6 Average and range of DBH and BA ...... 6-19
Table 6-7 List of species with the highest Importance Values in all the established plots and transects ...... 6-19
Table 6-8 Overall taxa richness ...... 6-20
Table 6-9 Taxa richness in terms of vegetation cover ...... 6-21
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Table 6-10 List of species with high Importance Values in all the established plots and transects ...... 6-23 Table 6-11 Endemic species recorded in the area ...... 6-24
Table 6-12 Invasive plants identified in the area ...... 6-25
Table 6-13 Species of ecological importance ...... 6-26 Table 6-14 Summary of distribution status of bird species recorded in Transmission line and Jetty area (Nov 2014) ...... 6-33
Table 6-15 Checklist of threatened species recorded in the area (August 2014) ...... 6-37 Table 6-16 Ecosystem services provided by the affected habitats ...... 6-38
Table 6-17 Provisioning services provided by the affected habitats ...... 6-40
Table 6-18 Summary of critical habitats affected by the Transmission Line and Jetty Projects ...... 6-50
Table 6-19 Key impacts and proposed mitigation/enhancement measures ...... 6-52
Figure index
Figure 6-1 Flora sampling locations ...... 6-9
Figure 6-2 Fauna sampling locations ...... 6-13
Figure 6-3 Distribution of plant species in terms of habit ...... 6-21 Figure 6-4 Species Diversity Index of the six transects ...... 6-23
Figure 6-5 Species Evenness Index of six transects ...... 6-23
Figure 6-6 Location of project site, important wetland sites and migration route in North and Central Luzon ...... 6-34
Figure 6-7 Bird species richness and abundance recorded in the Transmission Line sampling sites ...... 6-35
Figure 6-8 Bird diversity indices recorded in Transmission Line sampling sites ...... 6-36
Figure 6-9 Bird diversity indices recorded in Jetty sampling site ...... 6-36
Figure 6-10 Transmission Right-of-Way (ROW) scheme...... 6-48 Figure 6-11 Sample of positioning line marking devices on transmission lines ...... 6-49
Plate index
Plate 6-1 Cassytha filiformis found at the causeway...... 6-25
Plate 6-2 Tower 18 located at a wooded area in Barangay Saoit, Burgos. Pioneer trees and shrubs have established underneath the towers ...... 6-28
Plate 6-3 Various agricultural activities along the transmission line ...... 6-29
Plate 6-4 Tower BL95 beside Sulbec River in Barangay Sulbec, Pasuquin ...... 6-30
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Plate 6-5 Sulbec Rivermouth at Dirique Bridge ...... 6-30
Plate 6-6 Towers BL128 and BL129 located in Bacarra River, Barangays Cabaruan and Sangil, Bacarra ...... 6-30
Plate 6-7 Towers 41 and 43 located at the marshes of Barangay Paayas, Burgos ...... 6-31
Plate 6-8 Orthotropic reiterations seen on leaning stem at the riparian area after construction ...... 6-43
Plate 6-9 New shoots regenerating from cut stems at the second growth forest area ...... 6-46
Plate 6-10 Sample flight diverters installed in TL wires...... 6-49
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6. Terrestrial Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation
6.1 Introduction
This assessment was guided by the ecosystems approach described by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) as a “strategy for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way”. The assessment particularly considered the direct and indirect project-related impacts on terrestrial and marine biodiversity and the ecological complexes of which they are a part. The focus was on relevant threats to biodiversity and ecosystem services namely habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation, invasive alien species, overexploitation, and pollution.
Emphasis was also given on biodiversity and its ecosystem services as these are valued differently by different stakeholders in the municipalities of Burgos, Pasuquin and Bacarra, and Laoag City of Ilocos Norte affected by the transmission line and jetty projects across the affected landscape/seascape. The objectives of these assessments conform to Performance Standard 6 of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards (PS) objectives as follows: 1) To protect and conserve biodiversity; 2) to maintain the benefits from ecosystem services; and, 3) to promote the sustainable management of living natural resources through the adoption of practices that integrate conservation needs and development priorities.
6.2 Assessment methodology
6.2.1 Terrestrial Flora
Secondary and primary data gathering were conducted to determine the composition of flora species, structure and function taking into consideration the conditions in the project area. This report discusses the biodiversity of the vegetation within and in adjacent vicinity of the project area. The potential impacts of the project to the flora, including threatened and other important species, invasive alien species as well as the ecosystem services were reviewed. Interview with the farmers was also conducted to capture information regarding productivity of agricultural lands.
The lists of flora species of previous reports were used as reference for identification and comparison during the actual assessment. The landscape around the direct and indirect impact areas assessed was classified into habitats based on the ecosystems they represent. Assessment for wooded habitats (second growth forest, shrubland, and/or parang ecosystem) was separate from those habitats directly affected by the towers to determine the regeneration of the areas disturbed as well as to provide separate agro-ecosystems analysis. The habitat as defined in IFC Performance Standard 6 is likewise adopted, as a “terrestrial, freshwater, or marine geographical unit or airway that supports assemblages of living organisms and their interactions with the non-living environment.” The habitats are acknowledged in this document to be referred to as Modified, Natural and Critical based on their corresponding definitions as follows:
Modified habitat – areas that may contain a large proportion of plant and/or animal species of non-native origin and/or where human activity has substantially modified an area’s primary ecological functions and species composition; may include areas managed for agriculture, forest plantation, reclaimed coastal zones, and reclaimed wetlands.
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Natural habitats – areas composed of viable assemblages of plant and/or animal species of largely native origin, and/or where human activity has not essentially modified an area’s primary ecological functions and species compositions
Critical habitats – are areas with high biodiversity value, including 1) habitat of significant importance to Critically Endangered and/or Endangered species as listed on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and nationally-listed species categorization that correspond well to those of the IUCN; 2) habitat of significant importance to endemic and/or restricted-range species; 3) habitat supporting globally significant concentrations of migratory species and/or congregatory species; 4) highly threatened and/or unique ecosystems; and/or 5) areas associated with key evolutionary processes.
Both natural and modified habitats may contain high biodiversity values, thereby qualifying as critical habitat.
Field survey Based on the technical specification of the project components provided in the design, the footprint of the transmission route was geographically drawn/delineated at 30 meters (m) buffer from the centerline right of way (ROW) of the transmission route at an aerial perspective to cover the whole stretch of the project site. When GIS was employed to spatially select areas along the transmission route with vegetation, two classes were selected and sub-categorized to include the following areas: 1) with canopy (more likely to interfere with transmission cable); and, 2) other land agricultural areas with very few to no canopy on the area of interest.
A vegetation survey was carried out on 19 to 22 November 2014 covering selected sites along the TL and jetty project areas. Site reconnaissance was conducted prior to actual field survey to determine the existing vegetation cover and land uses. Transects were established in selected sites near or along the TL where the habitats are wooded, namely, 1) Open forest, broadleaved; 2) Other wooded land, shrubland; and, 3) Other wooded land, grassland. The classification is based on actual land cover interpreted from spatial information provided by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and aligned with the DENR Memorandum Circular 05 of 2005 (Adopting Forestry Definitions Concerning Forest Cover/Land Use).
A total of five transects were established near and along the TL and one transect near the jetty of the project area. Sampling sites were pre-selected in the TL with wooded vegetation covers. Three sampling plots were established per transect. Location and coordinates of the sampling transects are shown in Figure 6-1 and summarised Table 6-1. Each sampling plot has the following dimensions: 10X10 m2, 3X3 m2 and 1X1 m2, demarcated to evaluate the canopy, intermediate and undergrowth layer, respectively.
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Table 6-1 Location and description of sampling sites Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 7 masl Along The area is composed 1 248157, Jetty of mangrove species 2050834 mixed with other coastal/beach species, especially in Plot 3. The mangrove species is dominated by sapling and poles with DBH of less than 15 cm. The mangrove species Plot 2 51N 8 masl locally known as 248111, “bantigue” (Pemphis 2050826 acidula) were also observed in the area. Almost 80 percent of the coastal area is covered by a mix of mangrove and associated species.
Plot 3 51N 9 masl 248061, 2050847
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Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 119 masl Tower 30 The area is a 2 246773, combination of 2048431 shrubland and parang (e.g. grass with a few wooded species) ecosystems. However the location of the tower for the TL in the area is near the second growth forest. The area is Plot 2 51N 108 masl Tower 29 dominated by scattered 246779, small- to medium-sized 2048609 trees such as molave (Vitex parviflora), narra (Pterocarpus indicus), tanglin (Adenanthera intermedia), and bignai (Antidesma pleuricum). The TL and tower are located at the back of Plot 3 51N 96 masl Tower 28 Cape Bojeador 246566, Lighthouse. 2048609 Undergrowth layer is dominated by grasses such as cogon (Imperata cylindrica) and other shrubs species.
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Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 41 masl Tower 68 The area is composed 3 246150, of a mix of secondary 2038017 forest and shrubland ecosystems. The trees growing in the area ranged from small to large trees. Undergrowth layer is mainly dominated by saplings of the canopy Plot 2 51N 69 masl Tower 65 level trees with grasses 245891, and herbs. An ongoing 2038943 quarrying activity near the TL (Tower 68) was also observed. A plantation of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) was noted near the ROW of the transmission line in the Plot 3 51N, 60 masl Tower 64 area.
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Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 70 masl Tower The transect line is 4 245598, 136 shrubland/parang 2017552 ecosystem dominated by kakauate (Gliricidia sepium) and ipil-ipil (Leucaena leucocephala). The transect is near the community and farms.
Plot 2 51N, Tower 137
Plot 3 51N 48 masl Tower 245870, 138 2017141
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Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 29 masl Transect line is 5 251979, secondary forest 2051187 ecosystem along the public road going to Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. This transect is an indirect impact area of the project.
Plot 2 51N 21 masl 251701, 2050784
Plot 3 51N 29 masl 251318, 2050424
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Transect Plot Coordinates Elevation Location Ecosystem description Photo-documentation Transect Plot 1 51N 77 masl Transect line is 6 249447, shrubland/parang 2049241 ecosystem with dominated by duhat (Syzygium cumini), ipil- ipil (L. leucocephala), kakauate (G. sepium) and other shrubs and grasses. This transect is near the access road Plot 2 51N 80 masl going to Kapurpurawan 249584, Rock Formation and 2049132 national highway.
Plot 3 51N 77 masl 249607, 2048822
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 6-8 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 Ligaya Aggasi
Poblacion 1 Pagudpud San Lorenzo Tarrag Pagali Dampig Transect 1 (! Bangui (!!(! Transect 5 Jetty A!( (! Poblacion Wind Fam Saoit Ablan (! Abaca Nagbalagan Sarat Lanao (! Baruyen Malasin 2,050,000 (! 2,050,000 Taguiporo Bacsil BL-018 Pagali Masikil (!(! BL-011 (! Nagsurot Transect 1 Transect 5 Transect 2 (!Transect 6 (!(! BL-022 BL-012 !(!(!(! !( !( !( (! Jetty A BL-013 !((!!( BL-001 Utol !( AblanManayon BL-014 !( !( BL-002 Sarat (!!( BL-015 !( BL-021 !( BL-003 Dadaor Banban !( Bobon BL-022 Saoit !(!( !(!( Buduan BL-023 !( BL-004 BL-024 BL-006 Bayog BL-025 (!!( BL-005 !( (! BL-026 !( !( (!!( !( BL-007 !( !( !( !( BL-016 BL-042 BL-027 BL-008 !( BL-028 (! BL-017 BL-009 Paayas (! Nagsurot Transect BL-018 BL-010 !( BL-029 Transect 6 Tanap 2 Bangui(! BL-019
2,045,000 Burgos 2,045,000 (! (!!( BL-030 Burgos (! BL-020 !( Bayog !( BL-031 Poblacion !( Dumalneg BL-032 (! Buduan BL-033 Davila Tanap BL-053 BL-034 BL-035 Dumalneg Payac
Paayas
Agaga
Transect 3 Dilavo 2,040,000 (! 2,040,000 (! BL-063 !( (!
(!
Caruan BL-064 !(
(! BL-065 2,035,000 Sulongan !( Isic 2,035,000 Isic
Dilavo Sapat BL-066 Pasuquin !( W e s t
Philippine Cabayo Transect 3 BL-067 S e a !( Tadao Susugaen BL-090 Pasuquin Nalvo (! Salpad
Nagsanga Sulbec BL-068 Cabangaran (!!( BL-095 Pragata (! Carusikis
2,030,000 San Jose 2,030,000 San Juan BL-069 BL-098 !( Poblacion 4 Dagupan (! Poblacion 3 Bago Caruan Puyupuyan Poblacion 2 Surong Esperanza
Batuli (! BL-103 Santa BL-105 (! Matilde Naglicuan BL-104 (! BL-108 BL-107 ! Tabungao (!!( ( Dilanis Manarang Dadaeman Santa Rita BL-112 (! Tamdagan BL-133 (!!( Canaam BL-114 (! BL-113 (! Ngabangab Sangil BL-134 Pangil Santa Vintar !(
2,025,000 (! 2,025,000 Darupidip Catalina Binsang (! Alsem Carusipan Duripes Macupit Paninaan Dipilat Cadaratan Pungto BL-135 Malampa Pasiocan Calioet-Libong Tubburan !( Pasngal Natba Pipias Cabusligan Teppang Bgy. No. 59-B, Dibua North Salsalamagui Bacarra Nambaran BL-136 Cabulalaan Pulangi Cabisocolan !( Casilian Bani (! Corocor BL-137 BL-125 Libtong (!!( (! Bacarra (! Ganagan San Tambidao Visaya Cabaruan Columbia Vicente San Pedro F. Transect 4 Andres II Bgy. No. Alviar BL-138 60-B, (! San (!(!!( BL-128 Andres I Laoag City
2,020,000 Madiladig Santo 2,020,000 Bgy. No. (! Cristo I 60-A, BL-129 Sangil Santa Caaoacan BL-132 San Filomena II Carasi Simon I Santa Bgy. No. Rita Santa 61, Cataban (! Abkir (! Filomena I Bgy. No. 62-A, Bgy. No. BL-133 Navotas North 59-B, Dibua Parparoroc Bgy. No. 57, Pila Bgy. No. 55-C, Vira Piddig Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 55-A, Barit-Pandan North Pasiocan Buyon BL-139 59-A, Dibua !( South (!(!Transect 4 Ester Bgy. No. 62-B, (! San San Navotas South BL-138 Ramon San (!(! Pedro Mabanbanag BL-140 Bgy. No. 55-B, Salet-Bulangon Bgy. No. BL-137 Roque Parut Santa !( 57, Pila BL-141 Maria San Bgy. No. Nicolas Bgy. No. Alejo Estancia 32-A, La Bgy. No. 31, (! BL-144 55-C, Vira Paz East Talingaan Bgy. No. Malasig Margaay Bgy. No. 58, Casili Bgy. No. (! 30-A, Suyo Laoag 2, Santa Lubnac Bulbulala Bgy. No. Bgy. No. La P Joaquina Namoroc 32-C La a Bgy. No. 32-B, La z d City Paz East R a Bgy. No. 55-B, 56-A, Paz West o Bgy. No. P. Gomez St Salet-Bulangon Bgy. No. Bacsil North 2,015,000 30-B, Santa BL-143 2,015,000 Bgy. No. 54-A, Bgy. No. Maria Lagandit Libnaoan 33-B, La 47, Bengcag Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 1, Lagui-Sail Bgy. No. 56-B, Tangaoan Laoag City Paz Proper 46, Nalbo San Lorenzo Bacsil South Maab-Abaca Calambeg 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 LEGEND (! A! Jetty Flora (Direct Impact Area) Barangay (! Flora Sampling Plot Municipality
Burgos Wind Farm Flora Transect (Wooded, Indirect Impact Area)
Transmission Line (! Transmission Tower
Job Number 71-12098 Paper Size A3 EDC Burgos Wind Prower 0 0 2.5 5 ESIA for the Transmission Line and Jetty Project Revision Date 18 Jan 2016 Kilometers Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: WGS 1984 Grid: WGS 1984 UTM Zone 51N o Flora Sampling Locations Figure 6-1 G:\71\12098\GIS\Maps\MXD\BurgosTL&Jetty\Rev 0\7112098_Fig6-1_v2_rev0.mxd 11/F Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City 1232 Philippines T 63 2 479 5600 F 63 2 479 5601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com © 2016. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, EDC and NAMRIA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: EDC - Transmission Towers and Line (2014). NAMRIA - Municipality, Road, River. Created by:jcmatic
Table 6-2 Classification criteria of sampling Classification Sampling plot Diameter at Breast Height (m) Description (m2) Height (DBH cm)
Canopy 10X10 15 >1 Trees Intermediate 3X3 < 15 >1 Poles, sapling, intermediate species Undergrowth 1X1 < 15 <1 Undergrowth species (seedlings, grasses, vines herbs, shrubs)
Measurement of parameters Ecological parameters, which are indicative of ecosystem stability and productivity, were measured. These parameters include density (population count, density per ha), frequency (number of times encountered), dominance (coverage or basal area), relative and importance values, plant diversity and evenness indices.
The formulae below were used to compute for each parameter (Magurran, 1988): number of species
Species Richness (n) ✁ TL (transect line) total number of individuals from all species
Population Density (N) ✂ 2 100 m or hectares density of a species
Relative Density (RD) ✁ total density for all species 2
Species Dominance (D ) ✄ 0.7854 (DBH in cm or basal area) o dominance of a species
Relative Dominance (RDo ) ✄
dominance value for all species ☛
no. of species occurrence in a plot ✟
✆ ☎ ✠
Absolute Frequency (AF) ✝ 100 ✡
2 plots ✞
Absolute frequency of a species
Relative Frequency (RF) ☞ Total frequency for all species
I
✍ ✌ mportance value (IV) RD RDo ✌ RF
✑
✔ ni
✎ ✒ ✖✗
Diversity Index (H' ) ✕ n ln ✎
i ✒ N
✏ ✓ where : ni = the importance value (IV) of individual species = N = the importance value (IV) of all species H'
Evenness Index )(e' ✘ In(S) Discussion on species diversity and evenness indices for vegetation near and along the TL and jetty projects were based on Fernando’s Biodiversity Scale (1998) as described in Table 6-3. Subsequent categorisation of index values therefore refers to this scale.
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Table 6-3 Fernando (1998) biodiversity scale Relative Values Diversity Index (H’) Evenness Index (e’) or Pielou (J’) Very High >3.5 0.75 -1.00 High 3.0 – 3.49 0.5 – 0.74 Moderate 2.5 – 2.99 0.25 -0.49 Low 2.0 – 2.49 0.15 – 0.24 Very Low <1.99 <0.15
Conservation status and Critical habitats The lists as categorized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2007-01 (Establishing the National List of Threatened Philippine Plants and their Categories) were used in the determination of species conservation status and their categories. Identification and determination of critical habitats was based on the guidelines outlined in IFC Performance Standard 6.
6.2.2 Terrestrial Fauna
Secondary and primary data gathering were undertaken to determine the occurrence and composition of the fauna species in the project area. Reviewed available data related to fauna in the area include:
2000 Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Report for 42MW Northern Luzon Wind Power Project
2002 Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Report for 80MW Northern Luzon Wind Power Project
2002 Preliminary Assessment of Migratory Birds of PNOC Wind Power Project Sites in Burgos and Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
2010 Environmental Performance Report and Management Plan (EPRMP) for the 98 MW Burgos Wind Project
2012 Environmental Performance Report and Management Plan (EPRMP) for 84 MW Pagudpud Wind Power Project
2013 Environmental Performance Report and Management Plan (EPRMP) for the 165 MW Energy Development Corporation Burgos Wind Farm Project
2014 Environmental Impact and Social Assessment (ESIA) for the 165 MW Energy Development Corporation Burgos Wind Farm Project Field survey and assessment were carried out covering selected areas of the project. It is important to note, however, that prior to the survey and assessment, construction of transmission towers and jetty was already completed. Site reconnaissance was conducted prior to actual field survey to determine the existing vegetation cover, land uses and possible species’ habitat condition along selected sections of the transmission line route and selected adjacent areas.
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 6-11
Ten sampling sites were established in selected areas covering direct and indirect impact areas representing different ecosystems and landscapes (Figure 6-2 and Table 6-4) of the transmission tower and jetty. Birds are the main taxa assessed in the survey. They are good indicators of biodiversity and its taxonomy is well known and relatively stable compared to other taxa. Bird distribution generally reflects that of other species with bird population trends often mirror those of other animals (BirdLife, 2014). Standard sampling methods were applied to birds and other wildlife; and no species were harmed during the sampling activity.
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 6-12 235,000 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 Burayoc Subec Baduang BL-015 Poblacion 2 Ligaya BL-016 BL-001 Aggasi BL-017 BL-002 Poblacion BL-018 1 BL-003 Tarrag BL-019 San 10 Lorenzo BL-026 BL-020 BL-004 Bangui ! Dampig A Nagbalagan Wind Fam Abaca BL-027 Pagali A! 2 ! Poblacion BL-029 BL-028 Ablan Sarat A Malasin 2,050,000 BL-005 Bacsil Lanao 2,050,000 Baruyen Masikil BL-030 Saoit 1 BL-006 Taguiporo BL-031 Nagsurot BL-036 BL-021 BL-007 Manayon ! Utol 3 A Bayog BL-022 BL-008 Banban BL-037 Dadaor 4 BL-032 BL-023 BL-009 BL-041 BL-038 BL-033 BL-024 Buduan BL-010 BL-042 ! A BL-039 BL-034 BL-025 BL-011 BL-043 Bobon BL-044 BL-040 BL-035 BL-012 BL-045 Bangui Paayas Burgos BL-046 BL-013 Tanap
2,045,000 BL-048 BL-047 BL-014 2,045,000 BL-049 BL-050 BL-051 BL-052 BL-055 BL-053 Davila BL-054 5 A! BL-056 Payac BL-057 BL-058 Dumalneg BL-059 BL-060 BL-061 Dumalneg BL-062 Agaga
2,040,000 BL-063 Dilavo 2,040,000 BL-064 BL-065 BL-066 BL-067 BL-068 BL-069 BL-070 BL-071 BL-072 BL-073 Caruan BL-074 BL-075 BL-076 BL-077 Sulongan
2,035,000 BL-078 2,035,000 BL-079 Isic W e s t BL-080 Isic BL-081 Philippine BL-082 Sapat BL-083 S e a BL-084 BL-085 Cabayo BL-086 Susugaen BL-087 BL-088 Pasuquin Tadao BL-089 BL-090 Nagsanga Salpad BL-091 BL-092 Nalvo Sulbec BL-093 6 Cabangaran BL-094 A! BL-095 Pragata Carusikis San Jose 2,030,000 BL-096 San Juan 2,030,000 BL-097 BL-098 Dagupan BL-099 BL-101 Bago BL-100 Poblacion 3 BL-102 Surong Puyupuyan Batuli Esperanza BL-103 BL-104 Santa BL-106 Matilde BL-105 Naglicuan BL-109 BL-107 Dilanis Manarang BL-108 BL-110 Tamdagan Dadaeman Dipilat BL-111 Ngabangab Canaam BL-112 Santa Pangil Catalina 2,025,000 BL-113 7 Darupidip 2,025,000 BL-114 Binsang Alsem ! Carusipan BL-115 A Duripes Macupit Pungto Paninaan BL-116 Cadaratan Tubburan Malampa BL-117 BL-118 Vintar Pasngal Cabusligan Teppang BL-120 Natba Cabulalaan BL-119 BL-121 Corocor Bani BL-122 Salsalamagui Pipias Nambaran Cabisocolan BL-123 Casilian BL-124 Pulangi Libtong BL-125 Ganagan Bacarra BL-126 Cabaruan San Visaya San Columbia Pedro F. Vicente
BL-127 Andres I Alviar
■❉ ❊❛ ✐ ♥ ❣ ◆ ♦ ❤✐ ♥ ❣ Tambidao ❙❛♠♣❧ ✐ ♥❣ Bgy. No. BL-128 San Santo 2,020,000 60-A, BL-129 ! 8 Simon I Cristo I 2,020,000
Caaoacan A San
✲ ✶ ✷✺✵✺✺✵✳✹✸ ✷✵✹✾✾✾✷✳✶✸ BL-133 ✁ ✂❡ Bgy. BL-130 Sangil Roque I No. 61, BL-131 BL-134 Santa
Cataban Filomena I Abkir
✽
✲ ✷ ✷✹ ✹✶✹✳✹✺ ✷✵✺✵✷✷✾✳✹✷ Buyon ✁ ✂❡ Bgy. No. 62-A, BL-132 BL-137 Parparoroc
Navotas North BL-135 BL-143
✽ ✽
✲ ✸ ✷✹✺✼✻✶✳✷ ✷✵✹ ✷✶✷✳✾✷ BL-136 San ✁ ✂❡ Bgy. No. Ramon San 62-B, Navotas Bgy. No. 55-A, BL-144 San Ester BL-138 Bgy. No. Roque Mabanbanag
South Barit-Pandan Parut Pedro
✽
✲ ✹ ✷✹✸ ✺✶✳✺✹ ✷✵✹✻✺✷✷✳✵✷
57, Pila ✁ ✂❡ BL-139 BL-145 San Bgy. No. 55-C, Nicolas BL-140 Alejo
Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 31, Vira BL-146 Margaay
✽ ✽
✲ ✺ ✷✹✹✺✶✸✳ ✺ ✷✵✹✷✺✵✶✳ ✺ Malasig ✁ ✂❡ 32-A, La Talingaan BL-141 Paz East ! A BL-147 Lubnac Bgy. No. 32-C BL-142 9 Bulbulala
Bgy. No. Bgy. No. Namoroc
Bgy. No. ✽
✲ ✻ ✷✹ ✸✻✻✳✶✾ ✷✵✸✵✷✼✷✳✼✷ La Paz East ✁ ✂❡ 32-B, La 30-A, Suyo 2, Santa Paz West Joaquina Bgy. No. 55-B, BL-148 2,015,000 Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 2,015,000
Bgy. No. 6, Salet-Bulangon Bgy. No.
✲ ✼ ✷✹✻✻✺✺✳✸✶ ✷✵✷✹✶✹✸✳✶✸ 33-A, La Bgy. 30-B, Santa ✁ ✂❡ 56-A, Bacsil Estancia Paz Proper Bgy. No. 45, Maria San Agustin Libnaoan Bgy. No. North Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 44, No. 47, Tangid Lagandit Laoag 56-B, Bacsil
34-A, Gabu Zamboanga Bengcag Bgy. No. Bgy. No. Piddig
✽ ✽
✲ ✷✹✺✸✸✵✳✾✻ ✷✵✶✾✺✷ ✳ ✵✹ Norte West South ✁ ✂❡ Bgy. No. Bry. No. 48-A, 46, Nalbo Bry. No. 25, Santa 18, San Cayetana 43, Cavit Cabungaan North Bgy. No. 51-B, City Bgy. No. Quirino Bgy. Calambeg
Nangalisan West Tangaoan
✽
✲ ✾ ✷✹✻✻✵ ✳ ✸✼ ✷✵✶✺✻✷✾✳✸✹ 34-B, Gabu ✁ ✂❡ Bgy. Bgy. No. 48-B, Bgy. No. 5, No. 54-B, Bgy. Norte East Bgy. No. 36, Bgy. San Pedro Camangaan No. 52-B, Maab-Abaca Maruaya Cabungaan No. 49-B, Carasi Araniw No. 50, Bgy. No. 51-A, Bgy. No. Lataag South Raraburan San
Bgy. No. Buttong Nangalisan East Bgy. 52-A, San Dupitac ❏ ② ✽ ✽
✷✹✼✾✾✹✳✸✵ ✷✵✺✵ ✺✸✳✷ Andres Site❡ ✂✂ 10 35, Gabu Bgy. No. Bgy. No. 39, San San No. 53, Mateo Virbira Sur 42, Apaya Santa Rosa San Gregorio Francisco Ildefonso Rioeng Sarrat Ab-Abut Arua-Ay 235,000 240,000 245,000 250,000 255,000 260,000 265,000 LEGEND (! A! Fauna Sampling Site Transmission Tower Transmission Line
Bangui Wind Farm Municipality
Job Number 71-12098 Paper Size A3 EDC Burgos Wind Prower Revision 0 0 2.5 5 ESIA for the Transmission Line and Jetty Project Date 18 Jan 2016 Kilometers Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: WGS 1984 Grid: WGS 1984 UTM Zone 51N o Fauna Sampling Locations Figure 6-2 G:\71\12098\GIS\Maps\MXD\BurgosTL&Jetty\Rev 0\7112098_Fig6-2_rev0.mxd 11/F Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City 1232 Philippines T 63 2 479 5600 F 63 2 479 5601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com © 2016. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, EDC and NAMRIA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: GHD - Fauna Sampling Site EDC - Transmission Towers and Line (2014). NAMRIA - Municipality, Road, River. Created by:jcmatic
Table 6-4 Description of sampling areas along the transmission line route and selected adjacent areas Sampling Site description (including Photo-documentation coordinates and elevation) Site -1 Sampling site is located within wind farm area adjacent to the road at 23 masl and coordinates 250550.43 E 2049992.13 N.
Vegetation is dominated by cogon (I. cylindrica), talahib (Saccharum spontaneum), hagonoy (Chromolaena odorata) and duhat (S. cumini).
Site -2 Sampling site is located along Buraan River at coordinates 248414.45 E 2050229.42 N.
Vegetation is dominated by mangrove species such as P. acidula and mangrove associates
Site 3 Sampling site is located near the Bojeador Lighthouse along built-up area at 23 masl and coordinates 245761.28 E 2048212.92 N.
Vegetation is dominated by shrubs and grass species such as ipil-ipil (L. leucocephala), aroma (Acacia farnesiana) and hagonoy (C. odorata).
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Sampling Site description (including Photo-documentation coordinates and elevation) Site -4 Sampling site is located near the swamp and dragon fruit farm at 17 masl and coordinates 243851.54 E 2046522.02 N.
Vegetation is dominated by grass, rice and shrubs with some remnant forest species.
Site -5 Sampling site is located near Curaan River along access road near residential area at 32 masl and coordinates 244513.85 E 2042501.85 N.
Vegetation is dominated by grass and shrubs.
Site -6 Sampling site is located along access road adjacent to rice fields at 24 masl and coordinates 2483666.19 E 2030272.72 N.
Vegetation is dominated by rice and shrubs. A number of houses are recorded in the area.
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Sampling Site description (including Photo-documentation coordinates and elevation) Site -7 Sampling site is located along rice fields adjacent to access road of a residential area (subdivision) at 11 masl and coordinates 246655.31 E 2024143.13 N.
Area is mostly dominated by ricefields.
Site -8 Sampling site is located within Bacarra River in Bacarra at 6 masl and coordinates 245330.96 E 2019528.04 N.
Vegetation is mostly grass species with few stands of agroforest species nearby.
Site -9 Sampling site is located adjacent to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) substation in Laoag city at 21 masl and coordinates 246608.37 E 2015629.34 N
It is along built-up and agroforestry area with rice fields.
Site -10 Sampling site is located in (Jetty Jetty area at 3 masl and area) coordinates 247994.30 E 2050853.28 N.
A number of houses are recorded nearby (about 350 m) and the vegetation is dominated by Bantigue (Pemphis acidula)
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6.2.3 Ecosystem services
Identification and prioritization of ecosystem services provided by the different ecosystems/habitats within the project study site were undertaken. Prioritization of ecosystem services was based on IFC Performance Standards (2012) as follows: 1) those services on which project operations are most likely to have an impact and, therefore, which result in adverse impacts to affected communities; and/or 2) those services on which the project is directly dependent for its operations. The categorization employed by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005) was used, and as described in paragraph 2 and footnote 1 of Performance Standard 6 as follows: 1) provisioning services; 2) regulating services; 3) supporting services; and, 4) cultural services. Risks/impacts were assessed and mitigation measures were identified.
6.3 Baseline environmental conditions
6.3.1 Terrestrial flora
Habitats The habitats near and along the TL and jetty projects are composed of terrestrial habitats such as grassland, shrubland, and agricultural ecosystem and wetland habitats including inland wetlands, coastal wetlands and human-made wetlands. The following are the description of representative habitats found in the study area.
Terrestrial habitats
Second growth forest This forest occurs as a result of natural succession after forest clearance and/or other human activities. It is the remnant or residual of the primary forest.
Grassland Grassland is observed in patches near the forested area and within the agricultural land. Most of the grassland area is occupied by the following species: carabao grass (Paspalum conjugatum), cogon (Imperata cylindrica), and talahib (Saccharum spontaneum).
Shrubland Shrubland is defined by DENR DAO 2005-05 as a plant community characterised by vegetation dominated by shrubs, also including grasses, herbs and small- to medium-sized trees generally of 0.5 m to 5 m in height at maturity and without a definite crown. It may be the mature vegetation type in this particular region that remain stable over time, or a transitional community that occurs temporarily as a result of a disturbance, such as fire or clearing.
Agricultural ecosystem The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) definition of agricultural land was used to refer to the share of land area that is arable, under permanent crops, and under permanent pastures. Arable land includes land defined by the FAO as land under temporary crops, temporary meadows for mowing or for pasture, land under market or kitchen gardens, and land temporarily fallow. Land abandoned as a result of shifting cultivation is excluded. Land under permanent crops is land cultivated with crops that occupy the land for long periods and need not be replanted after each harvest, such as coconut. This category includes land under flowering shrubs, fruit trees, nut trees, and vines, but excludes land under trees grown for wood or timber. Permanent pasture is land used for five or more years for forage, including natural and cultivated crops.
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Wetlands The DENR-PAWB (2013) adopted the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, which was likewise adopted in this assessment as follows:
Inland wetlands Aquatic influenced environments sometimes referred to as freshwater and inland waters/waterbodies but also include brackish water located within land boundaries: inland deltas, rivers/streams/creeks including waterfalls, freshwater and brackish/alkaline lakes, peatlands, freshwater marshes and swamps.
Coastal/marine wetlands Wetlands located within coastal watersheds: sea bays and straits, sea-grass beds, coral reefs, marine shores, sand bars, sandy islets, and dune systems, estuarine and deltas; mud, sand or salt flats; tidal marshes, mangrove swamps, coastal saline lagoon, and marine/coastal caves.
Human-made wetlands Include fish and shrimp ponds, farm ponds, irrigated agricultural land, salt pans, dams and reservoirs, gravel pits, sewage farms and canals. This report adopted similar classification in its assessment.
Ecological assessment
Biometrics and Importance Value (IV)
Population density The population density of the canopy across transects ranges from 200 to 500 individuals per hectare while the intermediate layer ranges from 5,556 to 14,074 individuals per hectare. The undergrowth population density consisting of mostly grasses and shrubs ranges from 56,667 to 176,667 individuals per hectare.Table 6-5 shows the population densities per transect for all three layers taken from canopy, intermediate and undergrowth layers.
Table 6-5 Population density of three layers of the six transects Transect Layers (no. of individuals per Ha.) Canopy Intermediate Undergrowth Transect 1 267 5,556 56,667 Transect 2 467 9,630 123,333 Transect 3 367 8,889 86,667 Transect 4 200 10,370 66,667 Transect 5 433 14,074 100,000 Transect 6 500 8,889 176,667 Range 200 to 500 5,556 to 14,074 56, 667 to 176,667 Mean 372 9,568 101,667
Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) The measured trees in all transects had a DBH range of 15 to 64 cm. Among all the trees measured, duhat (S. cumini) in Transect 2 had the biggest DBH at 64 cm followed by a similar species in Transect 6 at 49.2. In terms of mean DBH measured considering the six transects, DBH in Transect 6 had the highest value at 26.28 cm followed by Transect 3 at 21.95 cm.
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The lowest DBH value was recorded in the mangrove transect (Transect 1) at the vicinity of the jetty at 19.15 cm. reflecting the presence of saplings and poles (Table 6-6).
Basal Area Basal area is the cross sectional area of the stem of trees in a stand, generally expressed as square centimeter (cm2). It is an indicator of tree biomass present in an ecosystem. In the mangrove transect (Transect 1) where the jetty is located, the BA of trees ranged from 176.72 to 961.33 cm2. In Transect 2, BA ranged from 176.72 to 1,319.72 cm2. In Transect 3, it ranged from 176.72 to 1,319.47 cm2, while in Transect 4, the BA ranged from 314.16 to 769.69 cm2. In Transect 5, it ranged from 298.65 to 1,792.68 cm2, while in Transect 6, the BA ranged from 314.16 to 8,103.19 cm2. Basal area of trees was higher in transects located in second growth forest/ parang ecosystems compared to transects near agricultural lands. Among the six transects, the total basal area of trees was highest in Transect 6 with 12, 263.81 cm2,followed by Transect 2 with 6,299.69 cm2, Transect 5 with 4,608.87 cm2, Transect 3 with 4,600.09 cm2 and Transect 1 with 2,045.97 cm2. The lowest is Transect 4 with 1,775.79 cm2 (Table 6-6). The total basal area of trees was highest in Transect 6 with 12,263.81 cm2 followed by Transect 2 with 6,299.69 cm2, Transect 5 with 4,608.87 cm2, Transect 3 with 4,600.09 cm2 and Transect 1 with 2,045.97 cm2 . The lowest basal area value was recorded in Transect 4 with 1,775.79 cm2 (Table 6-6).
Table 6-6 Average and range of DBH and BA
Average DBH Range of Total BA Transect DBH Range (cm) Total BA (cm2) 2 (cm) (cm ) Transect 1 15 to 30 19.15 2,045.97 176.72 to 961.33 Transect 2 15 to 64 20.61 6,299.69 176.72 to 3,393.71 Transect 3 15 to 32 21.95 4,600.09 176.72 to 1,319.47 Transect 4 16 to 25 19.50 1,775.79 314.16 to 769.69 Transect 5 16.5 to 28.2 21.62 4,608.87 298.65 to 1,792.68 Transect 6 15.1 to 49.2 26.28 12,263.81 314.16 to 8,103.19
Importance Value (IV) Index Importance Value (IV) reflects the influence a species exerts on the ecosystem. Table 6-7 shows the most prominent species in the TL and jetty project area based on IV per structural layer and ecosystem.
Table 6-7 List of species with the highest Importance Values in all the established plots and transects
Layer Transect 1 Transect 2 Transect 3 Transect 4 Transect 5 Transect 6
Avicennia sp. Duhat (S. Ipil-ipil (L. Mangga Malaikmo (C. Duhat – 53.16% cumini) – leucocephala) (M. indica) – philippinensis) – (S. cumini) – Dungon late (H. 28.27% – 26.99% 44.45% 34.12% 39.52% Canopy littoralis) – Ipil-ipil (L. Malaikmo (C. Kakauate Balinghasai Drypetes sp. 21.24% leucocephala) – philippinensis) – (G. sepium) – (B. –10.52% 15.76% 17.97% 37.43% arborescens) – Coconut Molave 17.94% (C. nucifera )– (V.parviflora) – 10.34% 15.63%
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Layer Transect 1 Transect 2 Transect 3 Transect 4 Transect 5 Transect 6
Avicennia sp. Lagundi Gonoi Kakauate (G. Kandong (M. Kandong (M. – 45.42% (V. negundo) (C. odorata) sepium) – azurinii) azurinii) – 19.87% – 19.17% 41.79% –19.36% – 9.82% Kakauate Ipil-ipil (L. Coronitas (L. Amuyong (G. Drypetes sp. –
Intermediate (G. sepium) – leucocephala) – camara) – amuyon) 9.82% 16.03% 15.00% 27.50% –12,41% Malaikmo Ebony (D. (C. ferrea) philippinensis) – – 12.41% 12.92% Aroma Payang-payang Gonoi (C. Kakauate (G. Bugsor (C. Cogon (A. farnesiana) (F. strobilifera) odorata) sepium) – celebium) (I. cylindrica) – – 21.32% – 19.14% – 25.96% 23.64% – 21.04% 12.77% Lagundi (V. Binunga (M. Gonoi (C. Malaikmo (C. Gonoi (C.
Undergrowth negundo) – tanarius) odorata) – philippinensi) – odorata) – 13.74% – 21.79% 21.59% 13.13% 12.77% Governor’s Uas (H.arborea) plum (F. – 11.38% jangomas) – 11.25%
Diversity Indices
Taxa richness A total of 73 taxa were recorded belonging to 61 genera and 35 families from areas adjacent to the TL and Jetty Projects (Table 6-8). Of the 73 taxa, 48 were tree species, 16 were shrubs, three species of grass and vines, and one species each of herb and palm (Figure 6-3). Families with the highest representative species are Fabaceae, Moraceae, Myrtaceae, and Anacardiaceae. In the canopy layer, a total of 27 taxa belonging to 23 genera and 18 families were identified. Species belonging to family Fabaceae, Myrtaceae, Anacardiaceae, and Phyllantaceae dominate the canopy layer. The intermediate layer had a total of 38 taxa belonging to 34 genera and 23 families, while the undergrowth layer had a total of 41 taxa belonging to 40 genera and 27 families. In the intermediate layer, species belonging to Fabaceae and Myrtaceae were dominant, while Fabaceae and Moraceae had the highest number of understorey layer. Twelve species were identified in the jetty area at Transect 1, 21 species in Transect 2, 19 species in Transect 3, nine species in Transect 4, 26 species in Transect 5, and 28 species in Transect 6 (Table 6-9). The type of ecosystems, community activities and accessibility to the areas dictate taxa richness. Transects 5 and 6 have the most number of species recorded since these two transects are under the second growth forest and shrubland/parang ecosystems, and far from the communities compared to the other transects. Human activities such as farming, collection of fuelwood and vegetation clearing are minimal compared to the other transects. Transects 2, 3 and 4 are located near the agricultural communities and are easily accessible. Transect 1 is located in the mangrove and beach area.
Table 6-8 Overall taxa richness
Layer Species/taxa Genera Family Canopy 27 23 18 Intermediate 38 34 23 Undergrowth 41 40 27 Total 73 61 35
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Figure 6-3 Distribution of plant species in terms of habit
Table 6-9 Taxa richness in terms of vegetation cover Transect Layer Species Genus Family Transect 1 Canopy 4 4 4 Intermediate 6 5 5 Undergrowth 7 7 7 Subtotal 12 12 10 Transect 2 Canopy 9 9 6 Intermediate 9 8 5 Undergrowth 10 10 7 Subtotal 21 20 10 Transect 3 Canopy 7 7 6 Intermediate 11 11 10 Undergrowth 8 8 7 Subtotal 19 19 13 Transect 4 Canopy 3 3 3 Intermediate 4 4 3 Undergrowth 5 5 4 Subtotal 9 8 6 Transect 5 Canopy 7 7 7 Intermediate 11 9 9 Undergrowth 13 13 10 Subtotal 26 22 17
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Transect Layer Species Genus Family Transect 6 Canopy 8 6 6 Intermediate 14 14 11 Undergrowth 13 2 12 Subtotal 28 24 20 Total 73 61 37
Species diversity and evenness Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of different types of plants that inhabit an area, while species evenness refers to how the species abundances (e.g. the number of individuals, percent cover, etc.) are distributed among the species. When there are similar proportions of all species, evenness is equal to one; when the abundances are very dissimilar (some rare and some common species), the value decreases close to zero. The species diversity and evenness index values of all the layers in the six transects are presented in Figure 6-4 and Figure 6-5. Based on the data gathered from all transects, the diversity values of the area ranged from H’ = 1.04 to 2.62, which indicate Very Low to Moderate diversity. Evenness index ranged from e’ = 0.885 to 0.978 (Very High). The species diversity index values of the three layers in Transect 1 ranged from H’ = 1.19 to 1.90, which indicate Very Low diversity (Figure 6-4). Evenness ranged from e’ = 0.859 to 0.978 (Very High). While in Transect 2, the diversity value of the area ranged from H’ = 2.03 to 2.18 (Low) and the evenness index value ranged from e’ = 0.922 to 0.964 (Very High). In Transect 3, the species diversity of the three layers ranged from H’ = 1.86 (Very Low) to 2.28 (Low) while the species evenness index of Transect 3 ranged from e’ = 0.923 to 0.956 (Very High). The species diversity at Transect 4 ranged from H’ = 1.04 to 1.73 (Very Low) and the species evenness index ranged from e’ = 0.934 to 0.968 (Very High). In Transect 5, the species diversity ranged from H’ = 1.80 (Very Low) to 2.41 (Low) and the species evenness index ranged from e’ = 0.924 to 0.957 (Very High). In Transect 6 species diversity ranged from H’ = 1.84 (Very Low) to 2.62 (Low) and evenness index ranged from e’ = 0.885 to 0.974 (Very High). Species diversity index values for all transects indicated Low to Very Low diversity.
GHD | Report for EDC Burgos Wind Power Corporation - EDC Transmission Line and Jetty Projects, 71/12098 | 6-22 Figure 6-4 Species Diversity Index of the six transects
Figure 6-5 Species Evenness Index of six transects
Table 6-10 List of species with high Importance Values in all the established plots and transects
Transect 1 Transect 2 Transect 3 Transect 4 Transect 5 Transect 6
r Laye Avicennia sp. Duhat (S. Ipil-ipil (L. Mangga Malaikmo (C. Duhat – 53.16% cumini) – leucocephala) (M.indica) – philippinensis) (S. cumini) – Dungon late 28.27% –26.99% 44.45% –34.12% 39.52% (H. littoralis) – Ipil-ipil (L. Malaikmo Kakauate Balinghasai Drypetes sp. 21.24% leucocephala) (C.philippinens (G.sepium) – (B.arborescen –10.52% –15.76% is) –17.97% 37.43% s) –17.94% Coconut Molave (C.nucifera )– (V.parviflora) – 10.34% 15.63% Canopy
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Transect 1 Transect 2 Transect 3 Transect 4 Transect 5 Transect 6
r Laye Avicennia sp. Lagundi Gonoi Kakauate Kandong (M. Kandong (M. – 45.42% (V. negundo) (C. odorata) (G.sepium) – azurinii) azurinii) – 19.87% – 19.17% 41.79% –19.36% – 9.82% Kakauate Ipil-ipil Coronitas Amuyong (G. Drypetes sp. – (G. sepium) – (L.leucocephal (L.camara) – amuyon) 9.82% 16.03% a) – 15.00% 27.50% –12,41% Malaikmo Ebony (D. (C.philippinens ferrea) is) – 12.92% – 12.41% Intermediate Aroma Payang- Gonoi (C. Kakauate Bugsor (C. Cogon (A.farnesiana) payang odorata) (G.sepium) – celebium) (I.cylindrica) – – 21.32% (F.strobilifera) – 25.96% 23.64% – 21.04% 12.77% – 19.14% Binunga (M. Gonoi Malaikmo Gonoi Lagundi tanarius) (C.odorata) – (C.philippinens (C.odorata) – (V.negundo) – – 21.79% 21.59% i) – 13.13% 12.77% 13.74% Governor’s Uas plum (F. (H.arborea) – jangomas) 11.38% – 11.25% Undergrowth
Species of ecological importance
Endemic species From the total recorded species, three species were identified as Philippine endemics (Table 6-11). Endemic species are those originating from and confined to a particular area. These species have particular conservation values as they are more vulnerable to disturbance due to their narrow range.
Table 6-11 Endemic species recorded in the area Family Scientific Name Common Name Fabaceae Adenanthera intermedia Merr. Tanglin Transect 2 Moraceae Artocarpus blancoi (Elmer) Merr. Antipolo Transect 5 and 6 Artocarpus ovatus Blanco Anubing Transect 5 Phyllanthaceae Antidesma pleuricum Tul. Bignai kalabau Transect 5
Invasive alien species (IAS) Invasive species of flora are those which had been accidentally or deliberately introduced to the area which may cause or likely to cause economic, environmental damage, and harm to human health. Five invasive species identified during the assessment are listed in the Philippine Clearing House Mechanism (PCHM) for Biodiversity (Table 6-12). Cassytha filiformis, locally referred to as kawad-kawaran, is not in the PCHM list of invasive species but has the potential to cause environmental damage if not controlled (Plate 6-1). Cassytha filiformis is a vine that parasitizes its host, in this case a patch of mangroves at the left margin of the causeway. It is a mat of leafless, wiry, very long, and greenish to orange brown- colored vine that was observed on top of the crown of mangrove trees. It is considered an exotic vine in the Philippines. Nelson (2008) stated it is indigenous and has a pantropical distribution throughout the coastal areas of Hawaii. The seeds of this species can be carried by ocean currents among and between continents and islands, or locally by streams or rivers, or seasonally flowing water. Seeds are also consumed and dispersed by some birds and dispersed by strong winds. Tidal waves may move seeds and stems further inland from an original site of infestation.
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The distribution of kawad-kawaran in the Philippines is also pantropic (Stuart, undated). It grows in thickets, especially near the sea, in dry regions and sometimes inland up to an altitude of 500 m throughout the Philippines. The vine can smother and kill plants and their coppice re-growth in coastal habitats poses a tangible threat to native, endangered species or kill some plants of economic, cultural or agricultural importance. The species is also reported to be capable of transmitting disease to other plants. In terms of use, the vine has astringent and medicinal properties (e.g. diuretic, laxative, tonic, cure for cold, fever, and headaches, jellyfish stings, and potential for inhibiting certain carcinomas as prostate cancer, etc). However, laurotetanine, a constituent of this species, can cause cramps and in sufficient doses, death. It is also used for fastening roofing (Nelson 2008).
Table 6-12 Invasive plants identified in the area Family Scientific Name Common Name Asteraceae Chromolaena odorata (L) R.M. King & H. Rob. Hagonoy Mikania cordata (Burm.f.) B.L. Rob. Uuko Cucurbitaceae Coccinea grandis (L) Voigt Tamling Poaceae Imperata cylindrica (L) Beauv Cogon Verbenaceae Lantana camara L. Coronitas
Plate 6-1 Cassytha filiformis found at the causeway
Threatened species In the direct and indirect impact areas assessed, some of the species found are under the three Red-list IUCN categories, namely, Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable. Taxa in these categories are collectively referred to as ‘threatened’. These categories are assigned to taxa on the basis of quantitative criteria that are designed to reflect varying degrees of threat of extinction (IUCN 2014). IUCN (2014) also refer to species that is currently not threatened or categorized as Least Concern (LC). IUCN describes species under the LC category as” species that have a relatively low extinction risk compared with those taxa that are assessed as threatened or near threatened”. IUCN further describes these species to be widespread and abundant taxa and may include taxa with restricted distribution range but having no current or potential threats, they may also include species with very widespread distribution and currently abundant taxa
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that are very slowly declining. Nevertheless, species under the LC category should not be undermined of their ecological importance. A total of eight species identified from the survey areas are under the various categories of threatened plants (Table 6-13) based on DAO 2007-01 and IUCN Red-list. These species were recorded in areas around the transmission line and jetty projects. Except for bagtikan (P. malaanonan), seven (87.5%) of the threatened tree species were found in the Municipality of Burgos area, specifically in Transects 2, 5 and 6. On the other hand, four (50%) of the species were found in Transect 3 in the Municipality of Pasuquin. The only threatened species found in the Laoag City area was also recorded in three other transects. The Critically Endangered species in the list are narra (Pterocarpus indicus) and bagtikan (Parashorea malaanonan). Narra (P. indicus) was documented in two transects – one in Laoag City and the other in the Burgos area. Bagtikan (P.malaanonan) is a dipterocarp tree species typically found in the lowland tropical rainforest. It was observed in one transect, in the Pasuquin area. Ebony (Diospyros ferrea) was found in two transects all in the Burgos area. The habitats of this species are lowland forests and thickets. Molave is a Vulnerable species under the IUCN classification, a beach forest species observed in four transect areas. Tanglin is likewise classified as Vulnerable, a middle-upper slope tree species under family Leguminosae found only in the Burgos area. Tiri (G. rolfei) is a species under family Fabaceae found only in the Burgos transect. While narra (P. indicus) and molave are now widely used in reforestation and urban forestry, the number of trees in its natural habitat continues to decline, aside from the continued shrinking of primary forest in the country. Anang (Diospyros pyrrhocarpa) is classified by IUCN under the Least Concern category. However, it is classified under the National List of Threatened Philippine Plants in DAO 2007-01 as Endangered. This classification was done pursuant to Republic Act No 9147 (RA 9147) otherwise known as the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act”. In this case, the national category prevails. Anang (D. pyrrhocarpa) was observed in both the Burgos and Pasuquin transects.
Table 6-13 Species of ecological importance Species Transect/ Conservation Reference Location Status Bagtikan Transect 3 Critically IUCN (Parashorea Endangered malaanonan)
Ebony Transect 5 Vulnerable DAO 2007-1 (Diospyros and 6 Endangered IUCN ferrea) Anang Transect 3 Endangered DAO 2007-1 (Diospyros and 5 pyrrhocarpa)
Lower IUCN Risk/least
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Species Transect/ Conservation Reference Location Status concern Tanglin Transect 2 Other DAO 2007-1 (Adenanthera Threatened intermedia) Species
Vulnerable IUCN Tiri (Gleditsia Transect 6 Endangered IUCN rolfei) Narra Transect 2 Critically DAO 2007-1 (Pterocarpus and 3 Endangered indicus)
Vulnerable IUCN Molave (Vitex Transect 2, 3, Endangered DAO 2007-1 parviflora) 4, and 6
Vulnerable IUCN Antipolo Transect 6 Vulnerable IUCN (Artocarpus blancoi)
Terrestrial habitats Of the 28 towers assessed during the field visit, one is located in a second growth forest habitat, 24 towers were located in agricultural habitat and three towers were located in riparian and freshwater marshes.
Second-growth forest Regeneration in a representative disturbed wooded area is dominated by pioneer tree species Anabiong (Trema orientalis). Binunga (Macaranga tanarius) is likewise observed but growing sparsely around the clearing. Species of invasive shrubs are also found in the cleared area such as Chromolaena odorata and Lantana camara. Another pioneer shrub, Malvastrum coromandelianum was seen as well as Calopogonium mucunoides, a leguminous creeper that helps prevent soil erosion. Around the clearing were evidences of cut stumps of ebony and anang with new shoots, evidences that these trees are still alive and thus capable of growth.
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Plate 6-2 Tower 18 located at a wooded area in Barangay Saoit, Burgos. Pioneer trees and shrubs have established underneath the towers
Agricultural habitat The 24 towers assessed during the field visit were located in irrigated and irrigable lands and other lands used for agriculture whether irrigated or not. These areas are realized and potential source of productive agricultural activity and are classified as Modified habitat. Based on interviews with farmers, the rice varieties that were recently harvested in the fields of Barangay Barit, Laoag City were Angelina 122, Rc 18, Rc 128. Mabango (NSIC Rc 128) is an aromatic variety produced by PhilRice, a government corporate entity mandated to help develop high-yielding and cost-reducing technologies. In Barangay Nagsanga, Pasuquin, the rice variety harvested by another farmer was Trio Dos (222), which is a rice variety for irrigated lowlands, technically the IRRI-bred Tubigan (NSIC Rc 222). In Barangay Cabaruan, Bacarra, the rice varieties were SL 8, RC 14, 128, 152, 42, and 18. The farmers interviewed said they were not planting native rice varieties anymore. Farmers observe two rice cropping seasons, the main crop falls in June to October and the second crop falls during the dry season. In terms of productivity, rice planting stock of 40 kilos would yield a harvest of 60-70 bags. The price of rice per cavan is PHP1,200.00. The rice produced is for consumption and for sale.
In between rice cropping seasons, the land is planted with corn (Zea mays) using hybrid varieties, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), and vegetables such as upo (Lagenaria siceraria), talong (Solanum melongena), kamatis (Solanum lycopersicum), onions (Allium cepa), kalabasa (Cucurbita maxima), garlic (A. sativum). A farmer interviewed near Tower 93 stated that a 4,000 m2 garlic farm can earn about PHP 95,000. He added that corn planted to about 8,000 m2 would yield about 3.5 tons. In terms of livestock production, free-range livestock farming was observed to be a common practice in the direct and indirect impact areas along the vicinity of the towers and transmission lines. Cows and goats were seen everywhere – whether coastal wetlands or terrestrial habitats. Sustainability of livestock farming in the area thus depends on the availability of edible forage in these habitats.
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Plate 6-3 Various agricultural activities along the transmission line
Wetland habitats
Riparian habitats During the site visit, it was observed that some towers were built near bodies of water, namely Tower 95 near Sulbec River in Barangay Sulbec, Pasuquin; and Towers BL128 and BL129 located at both sides of Bacarra River. The resulting cemented structure in Towers BL095 and BL128 has stabilized a portion of the riverbank (Plate 6-4).
The remaining trees at the vicinity of Tower 95 are Pongamia pinnata, Morinda citrifolia, Gliricidia sepium, Casuarina equisetifolia, Pithecellobium dulce and Nauclea orientalis. Some of the shrubs observed growing at the disturbed area are Jatropha gossypifolia, Chromolaena odorata and Phyllanthus amarus. Ipomoea pes caprae was also observed on the ground. The habitat of most of these species is beach ecosystem. The rivermouth of Sulbec River is found at the Dirique Bridge where the species were observed to be similar to the remaining trees at the vicinity of Tower BL095 (Plate 6-5). Towers BL128 and BL129 are located at both sides of a section of the Bacarra River. At the time of field visit, the grasses and shrubs were brown hence identification was difficult (Plate 6-6). It was also noted that the towers were constructed in the immediate vicinity of the riverbed. To allow the construction of towers on the riverbed of Bacarra River, a permit to construct was obtained by EBWPC from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
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Being an agricultural area, the required easement is 20 m based on Presidential Decree No 1067 also known as the Water Code of the Philippines. Article 51 states that “the banks of rivers and streams and the shores of the seas and lakes throughout their entire length and within a zone of 3 m in urban areas, 20 m in agricultural areas and 40 m in forest areas, along their margins, are subject to the easement of public use in the interest of recreation, navigation, flotage, fishing and salvage. No person shall be allowed to stay in this zone longer than what is necessary for recreation, navigation, flotage, fishing or salvage or to build structures of any kind.” In addition, Rule II (Control, Conservation and Protection of Waters, Watersheds and Related Land Resources) Section 27 of the Water Code Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) stated that, “except when allowed under these rules, the building of dams, dikes, or any structure or works are prohibited”. Section 28 also states that “all easement of public use for rivers shall be reckoned from the line reached by the highest flood which does not cause inundation or the highest equinoctial tide whichever is higher”.
Plate 6-4 Tower BL95 beside Sulbec River in Barangay Sulbec, Pasuquin
Plate 6-5 Sulbec Rivermouth at Dirique Bridge
Plate 6-6 Towers BL128 and BL129 located in Bacarra River, Barangays Cabaruan and Sangil, Bacarra
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Freshwater marshes Towers 41 and 43 are located in Paayas, Burgos specifically at the immediate periphery of marshes, or areas with shallow water and vegetation that are mostly grasslands. The vegetation observed in the area is Cyperus species, Pandanus tectorius, Acrostichum aureum and Paspalum and Phragmites species. This habitat is used by the locals for fishing while the upper landward portion is used for pasture or grazing of livestock (Plate 6-7). Tower 42 is situated in a “barren marsh”. This unique habitat is characterized by wide, open flat land, with white sand and some broken corals. Clewell (1997) aptly described a similar “tidal barren marsh” habitat as “vegetation that is limited to a very sparse and stunted cover of succulents and/or shoregrass”. The representative dominant species that have established on the bare ground in this habitat are herbaceous species such as Acanthus ilicifolius, Ipomoea pes-caprae and Suaeda maritima (Plate 6-7).S. maritima is described by Polic et al (2008) as an annual, succulent, salt-marsh plant found on most of the European sea coast and in inland saline areas of Russia, Central Europe, East Asia and East India. It has also been found in North and South America and Australia.
Other species observed at the upper landward portion such as Pandanus tectorius, Cassia tora, and Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, two Cyperus species, Ricinus communis, Terminalia catappa, Pongamia pinnata, Leucaena leucocephala, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Phyllanthus balgooyi, and Passiflora foetida.
No analyses were done on soil and water but these halophytes serve as vegetation indicators of the mixture of saline conditions in this area. The area is also used by locals as grazing area for goats. There was also an observed filled water impounding area believed to be a reservoir of saline water for salt recovery by the locals.
Plate 6-7 Towers 41 and 43 located at the marshes of Barangay Paayas, Burgos
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6.3.2 Terrestrial fauna
Site condition and characteristics
Transmission line Most of the land areas along the transmission line route are open, and with low trees and brushes. The transmission line mainly passes through mixed vegetation, such as agroforestry and grasslands, and built-up areas. Agricultural crops predominates the area, such as rice, banana, dragon fruit (Hylocereus sp.), and other fruit trees which have been planted on privately-owned farm lots. Given the plant species and condition of the vegetation cover in the area, it is expected that wildlife species will be mostly urban and common species. Resilient species mostly resident and introduced species may potentially dominate the list while forest dependent species is nil.
Jetty Vegetation surrounding the Jetty area is composed mostly of grass and few shrub species. A few houses and gasoline station are located adjacent to the area. Activities observed within and adjacent to the Jetty area include: fishing and backyard gardening and animal raising (e.g. chickens, hogs and goats).
Species richness and composition A total of 85 species of terrestrial fauna from 46 families were recorded in the area. Birds comprised majority of the list of vertebrates with 62 species, followed by amphibians and reptiles with 12 species and mammals with 11 species. Fifty-nine and 20 species of birds were recorded in transmission line and jetty area, respectively. Appendix J contains the complete list of the fauna species recorded in the area.
Transmission Line Species richness is dominated by Family Ardeidae (egrets and herons) and Columbidae (doves and pigeons) with seven species each. Species abundance is dominated by Eurasian tree- sparrow (Passer montanus) and pygmy swiftlet (Collocalia troglodytes) with 54 and 39 individuals, respectively. They were followed by scaly-breasted munia (Lonchura punctulata) with 42 individuals and glossy swiftlet (Collocalia esculenta) with 32 individuals.
Of the 59 species of birds recorded, resident species were the predominant with 34 species (58%) (Table 6-14).Resident species are present all year round in the Philippines but are also found in other countries. These species breed or are suspected of breeding in the Philippines and normally live within the country throughout the year. Endemics, which are species found only in the Philippines, are represented by 11 species (19%). Most of these species are found throughout the Philippines except for one species which is restricted to Luzon Island, the lowland white-eye (Zosterops meyeni). The Philippines is one of the staging sites used by almost 250 species in the East Asian- Australian Flyway. Migrant species used the wetland areas in the Philippines as staging ground for feeding and resting area on their journey towards to southern hemisphere (Australia) to escape the harsh winter season in their country of origin and vice versa. The geographic location of the wind farm project and transmission line is not along the migration route hence low number of migrant species is expected. Only seven migrant species (12%) were recorded in the area during the survey. Other migrant species have established breeding populations in the Philippines and are classified as resident/migrant. Four species (7%) were recorded in the area. Three introduced species (5%) in the Philippines were also recorded in the area namely: Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus), crested myna (Acridotheres cristatellus) and zebra
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dove (Geopelia striata). These species are possibly introduced as caged pets to the Philippines with Acridotheres cristatellus intentionally introduced as a biological control for sugarcane pests Passer montanus has been so successful that it has nearly colonized every island in the Philippines while Geopelia striata is common, but only local in lowland cultivation, farms, grasslands, towns and cities. It is also popularly kept as caged bird and thus trapped for the pet trade or eaten as a delicacy (Gonzales, 2006).
Table 6-14 Summary of distribution status of bird species recorded in Transmission line and Jetty area (Nov 2014) Site Endemicity /distribution status Endemic Resident Migrant Resident with Introduced migrant population Transmission Line 11 34 7 4 3 Jetty 3 9 5 1 2
Vulnerability to species collision mainly by migratory species will not be high or severe compared to other projects whose location sits along migratory route. Transmission lines were constructed parallel to the mountain ranges located east of the project alignment making it an ideal solution to bird-wire collision, since the major mountain ranges and flatlands are oriented north to south in the same direction as the birds' migration (Figure 6-6). Topographic conditions of the location of transmission line also affects species occurrence in the area. Topography may aid, hinder, or prevent the progress of a migrant depending on the bird's particular requirements. Though no conclusive evidence indicates any particular part of the landscape influences all birds in the same manner, certain bird populations may use regular geographic routes during migration, but they are usually not rigidly restricted to them because of topography (USGS, 2014).
Jetty Twenty species of birds with 54 individuals were recorded in jetty area dominated by little-ringed plover (Charadius dubius) and pygmy swiftlet (Collocalia troglodytes) with eight species each. In terms of distribution status, nine species are resident, followed by five migrants, three endemics, two introduced species and one resident with migrant population.
Other fauna Eleven species of mammals from eight families were also recorded in the area with eight bats, one monkey, one civet cat and one rodent species. No endemic mammals even during interview were recorded in the area as all species are either widespread or common of least concern status. For 12 herpetofauna species recorded, five are snakes, six lizards and a frog species. Livestock and domesticated species such as cow (Bos indicus), horse (Equus sp.), goat (Capra sp.), chicken (Gallus sp.) and feral cat (Felis catus) were also recorded in the area being dominated by agriculture activities and livestock raising.
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Pagudpud wetland Jetty %, A! 2,050,000 2,050,000
Linao Swamp %, %, Buguey Cagayan Wetland River %, Paoay Delta %, Lake
2,000,000 L u z o n 2,000,000 S e a
Bantay wetland Caoayan 1,950,000 %, wetland 1,950,000 %, Malasi Lake %, 1,900,000 1,900,000
Suyo wetland %, Magat Lake %, 1,850,000 1,850,000
Bolinao Sto Tomas wetland wetland %, Alaminos %,
1,800,000 %, 1,800,000 wetland San Philippine Manuel S e a Binmaley wetland wetland %, %, %, Natividad wetland 1,750,000 1,750,000 1,700,000 1,700,000
W e s t Philippine S e a
150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 450,000 LEGEND A! Jetty Migration Route
%, Wetlands
River
Transmission Line
Job Number 71-12098 Paper Size A3 EDC Burgos Wind Prower Revision 0 0 25 50 ESIA for the Transmission Line and Jetty Project Date 18 Jan 2016 Kilometers Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Wetlands and migration Horizontal Datum: WGS 1984 Grid: WGS 1984 UTM Zone 51N o route in Luzon Island Figure 6-6 G:\71\12098\GIS\Maps\MXD\BurgosTL&Jetty\Rev 0\7112098_Fig6-6_rev0.mxd 11/F Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City 1232 Philippines T 63 2 479 5600 F 63 2 479 5601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com © 2016. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD and NAMRIA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: DENR - Wetlands (2014). NAMRIA - Municipality, Road, River. EDC - Transmission Line. Van Weerd & Ploeg - Wetalnds (2004). McClure - Migration Route (1974). Created by:jcmatic
Bird Diversity index
Transmission Line Information on diversity indices of birds recorded during the survey is presented in Figure 6-7. Species richness was highest in Site 2 (32 species), followed by Site 4 (29) and lowest in Site 5 (10). Species abundance, on the other hand, was highest in Site 4 (76 individuals), followed by Site 2 (66) and lowest in Site 5 (30). Average species richness and abundance is 20 species and 51 individuals, respectively.
Figure 6-7 Bird species richness and abundance recorded in the Transmission Line sampling sites
80
70
60
50
40 Number
30
20
10
0 123456789Average Taxa 18 32 23 29 10 14 19 17 22 20 Individuals 49 66 55 76 30 44 57 40 39 51 Sampling site
Species diversity is highest in Site 2 (H’=3.259) and lowest in Site 5 (H’=2.156) (Figure 6-8). Meanwhile, species dominance is highest in Site 6 (C=0.137) and lowest in Site 2 (C=0.048). Evenness (e’) is highest in in Site 5 (e’=0.864) and lowest in Site 7 (0.679). The high number of species recorded and species diversity index in Site 2 and Site 4 can be attributed to the quality of habitat which is a combination of small patches of natural forest surrounded by grassland, shrubland and agricultural areas. These types of habitat are ideal for majority of bird species recorded in the area. On the other hand, Site 5 recorded relatively low number of species and species diversity, may due to limited vegetation and disturbance in the area being proximal to the national road and built-up areas. Based on diversity parameters recorded, average species diversity (H’=2.711) is considered Moderate, abundance (C=0.088) Very Low and evenness (e’=0.780) Very High.
Jetty A total of 20 species and 54 individuals of birds were recorded in the area. Species diversity is Moderate (H’=2.726), dominance Very Low (C=0.082) and evenness Very High (e’=07.64) (Figure 6-9).
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Moderate species diversity recorded in TL and Jetty area suggests that some bird species dominated in terms of high number of individuals encountered, while overall distribution of individuals among species are evenly distributed based on species evenness data.
Figure 6-8 Bird diversity indices recorded in Transmission Line sampling sites
Figure 6-9 Bird diversity indices recorded in Jetty sampling site
Species of conservation importance Of the 85 species recorded, four species are in the threatened category based on IUCN, CITES and DAO assessment criteria composed of one bird, one mammal and two reptiles. The list of threatened species recorded in the area is presented in (Table 6-15).
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Three of four threatened species are identified as CITES Appendix II species and are protected under the convention against over-exploitation and trade. IUCN Red List identified one species under Vulnerable category. Local legislation through DENR DAO 2004-15 identified all four threatened species. These species are threatened due to hunting and loss of habitat while some from collection for pet trade. Other species hunted but not in any conservation category area pigeons and doves, according to the locals. However, no hunting activities were observed during the survey in the area.
Table 6-15 Checklist of threatened species recorded in the area (August 2014) Scientific name Common name Conservation Status and Category IUCN CITES DENR DAO 2004-15 Anas luzonica Philippine duck Vulnerable Vulnerable Macaca fascicularis Philippine macaque Appendix II OTS Varanus marmoratus Monitor Lizard Appendix II Vulnerable Python reticulatus Reticulated Python Appendix II OTS
Invasive species Two invasive alien species (IAS) based on IUCN Species Survival Commission Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG)-Global Invasive Species Database (2013) recorded in the area are: Common house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) and cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis). Both species are said to compete with native species in terms of food and habitat requirements. Egrets are also known to host ticks that could introduce and spread certain-tick borne disease. Other species not recognized by IUCN as IAS but are recorded in the area and identified by Joshi (undated) and Gonzales (2006) as invasive species are: Oriental house rat (Rattus tanezumi), crested myna (Acridotheres cristatellus), zebra dove (Geopelia striata) and Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus).Note that these species are also commonly found elsewhere in the Philippines and not exclusively found within the project area. The Eurasian tree sparrow, while considered an IAS, is also widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia. Though few in numbers or individuals, these IAS were said create impact especially on agriculture (i.e., crop damage). However, no documentation of the impacts of IAS was recorded in the area.
6.3.3 Ecosystem services
Ecosystem services are the “benefits people obtain from ecosystems” (Millennium Ecosystem Assessment 2005), including businesses (IFC 2012); the “ecological components directly consumed or enjoyed to produce human well-being” (Boyd and Banzhaf 2007), as cited by Fisher et al (2009); the “aspects of ecosystems utilized to produce human well-being” (Fisher et al 2009). MA (2005) formulated the framework for an ecosystem approach and allocated ecosystem services to four categories identified in IFC Guidance Note 126 of Performance Standard 6 as follows: 1) provisioning – products people obtain from ecosystems; 2) supporting – natural processes that maintain the integrity, resilience and functioning of ecosystems, and so the delivery of other services; do not necessarily have direct economic worth; 3) regulating – include those processes that regulate the natural environment; and, 4) cultural – include diverse aspects of aesthetic, spiritual and other cultural values.
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An initial list of ecosystem services was generated, after which those that were found to be directly affected based on the results of individual assessments, were retained (Table 6-16). Based on IFC (2012) PS 6 Guidelines, the services on which project operations are most likely to have an impact belong to Type I category, those which impacts affected communities.
Table 6-16 Ecosystem services provided by the affected habitats Ecosystem Wetlands Terrestrial Services/Bene fits Freshwater Coastal and Agricultural Terrestrial Second Marshes Marine Growth Forest and Other Wooded Areas Provisioning services Food Fish, shells, Fish, shells, Crops (Grains, Wild foods (e.g. shrimps, other shrimps, fruits, vegetables, fruits, nuts, ferns, flora and fauna; seaweeds etc), livestock, wildlife), fungi, (‘gamet’) fungi fruiting fruiting bodies, bodies, dairy, others others Genetic Flora and fauna Flora and fauna Flora and fauna Flora and fauna Material Regulating services Pollination Habitat for Habitat for Habitat for Habitat for and seed pollinators and pollinators and pollinators and pollinators and dispersal seed dispersers seed dispersers seed dispersers seed dispersers Water Soil water Soil water Soil water Soil water regulation infiltration; Soil infiltration; Soil infiltration; Soil infiltration; Soil water storage water storage water storage water storage Erosion Flora Beach and Flora Flora regulation Mangrove Flora Natural Coral reefs; Flora hazard mangroves regulation Riparian Flora – reeds Flora – Flora Flora – creepers, stabilization and other tall mangroves, shrubs, herbs, grasses and beach species, trees creepers associated species such as creepers Biological Flora/Fauna Flora/Fauna Flora/Fauna Flora/Fauna control Pest Fauna Fauna Fauna Fauna infestation Supporting services Primary Natural habitat Natural habitat Base for Natural habitat production* of soil of organisms Economic of soil organisms, (Land) organisms activities/livelihoo *formation of d biological natural habitat of material by soil organisms, plants through photosynthesis and nutrient assimilation (Layke 2009) Primary Algae transform
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Ecosystem Wetlands Terrestrial Services/Bene fits Freshwater Coastal and Agricultural Terrestrial Second Marshes Marine Growth Forest and Other Wooded Areas production* sunlight and (coral reefs) nutrients into *formation of biomass, thereby biological forming the base material by of the food chain plants through in aquatic photosynthesis ecosystems and nutrient (Layke 2009) assimilation (Layke 2009) Provision of Waterfowl, Waterfowl, fish, Waterfowl, fish, Waterfowl, fish, habitat fish, amphibians, amphibians, amphibians, amphibians, invertebrates, invertebrates, invertebrates, invertebrates, mammals and mammals and mammals and mammals and plants plants plants plants Cultural services Aesthetic Unique Presence of the Presence of the Presence of the value landscape and idyllic marine and idyllic, rustic idyllic view; vegetation coastal view; agricultural view unique landscape unique landscape and vegetation Educational Presence of the Presence of the Presence of the Presence of the ecotourism and ecotourism and agricultural ecotourism and cultural cultural attraction, landscape cultural attraction; attractions, windfarm and windfarm and unique landscape; windfarm and transmission line transmission line windfarm and transmission transmission line line Eco- tourism Presence of Presence of Presence of Kapurpurawan Kapurpurawan Kapurpurawan Rock Formation Rock Formation Rock Formation and and Palpalokada and Palpalokada Palpalokada Cultural Presence of Presence of Cape Presence of Cape Presence of Cape heritage Cape Bojeador Bojeador Bojeador Bojeador
Provisioning Services Agricultural and forest biodiversity, as well as coastal and marine biodiversity are known to provide for direct benefits. These could be grains, fruits, vegetables, livestock, or fungi from terrestrial ecosystems; and fish, shells, shrimps, seaweed, or algae for coastal and marine ecosystems. Agricultural and marine ecosystems have inherent economic dimensions in the discussion of provisioning ecosystem services. Some indicators are listed in Table 6-17 to provide parameters for knowing the values of these Provisioning services. The impact of the Project to these Provisioning services is the reduced potential for activities related to crop and livestock production, potential sources for wild food and raw materials for handicrafts as well as other sources of land based livelihood. However it is important to note that the actual project footprint of the TL is 47.14 hectares which includes the 15 meter ROW for each side. The average footprint of the transmission tower is 25 m2, some are smaller such that
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only the stubs touch the ground while other are much bigger wherein there are engineering stabilization measures for slope.
Table 6-17 Provisioning services provided by the affected habitats Provisioning Indicators Data Units Crops Name of crop/s produced List of variety/ies or species Number of cropping season per year Kilos/tons Number of kilos/tons produced per crop per Kilos/tons cropping season per year Number of people that could have been employed No of individuals in crop production and harvesting Payment of services rendered in crop production PHP and harvesting Value of crop produced PHP Livestock Name of animal/s List of individual variety/ies or species Number of heads per species No of individuals Value per head if sold PHP Number of people that could have been employed No of individuals in pasture or cutting/harvesting of forage Value of services in livestock production PHP Capture List of individuals fisheries Name of fish and other marine products Source of collection Place collected Number of fish or other species caught Number/volume Value of fish and other marine products No of individuals Wild food Name of wild food species List of individuals Source of collection Place collected Number of wild food used for human food No of individuals Volume of wild food harvested Kilos/tons Value of wild food per species PHP Number of people employed in harvesting of wild Number of individuals food Value of services rendered in wild food collection PHP Handicrafts Name/habit of species List of individuals
Number of wild species used for handicrafts Number of individuals production Source of collection Place collected Volume of harvest per species Kilos/tons Value of raw material from the wild PHP Number of people employed for the harvest of wild Number of individuals species for handicraft production
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Regulating Services
The areas occupied by the jetty and towers could have contributed to the area for the habitat for insects and small animals known as pollinators and seed dispersers. The services provided to human well-being would depend on the value of the crops that also depend upon the pollination services of these birds and bats, as well as to the vegetation that could have benefited from their services Removal/reduction of wooded cover on the land where the towers had been constructed may have reduced its capability to aid in erosion regulation. The disturbance/reduction in coral reefs and the displacement of mangroves affected the synergy and symbiotic processes within the coral reef system which accounts for the complexity among the variety of reef species on which fish are dependent on to complete their life cycle. Coral reefs are used as as spawning, breeding and nursery grounds of fish. In terms of capability of the coastal and marine ecosystems to aid in natural hazard regulation, coral reefs not only provide initial buffer but also protects the mangroves which is the second line of defense, protecting the coastline during storm surges and inundation. The construction of concrete foundations to stabilize the tower infrastructure in riparian areas could help in preventing soil degradation further inland. EBWPC, through its contractor obtained a permit from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to construct Transmission Towers on the riverbed of Bacarra River. The permit is presented in Appendix D.
Supporting Services Supporting services are necessary for the production of all other ecosystem services. These relate to fundamental environmental processes and intangible values (UNEP 2009), as cited by Blumenfeld et al (2009). For agricultural ecosystems, land is the base for which economic activities happen, without which, agronomic crops cannot be produced and livestock cannot be raised. Coral reefs are host to algae that transforms sunlight and nutrient into biomass, thereby forming the base of the food chain in aquatic ecosystems (Layke 2009). The value of these supporting services should be in close reference with the provisioning and regulating services to be able to completely appreciate its contributions to food security and human well-being.
Cultural Services The term used for the non-material benefits that people obtain from ecosystems is “Cultural services”. Cultural services affected by the presence of towers and the transmission lines are; i) aesthetic values, ii) eco-tourism, iii) cultural heritage, and iv) educational value. Different individuals may view aesthetic values differently. To some, the presence of the towers and transmission lines affect the view of the landscape that used to be previously scenic and rustic. It was even used as backdrop for photo opportunities. To others, the towers and transmission lines may come as a price for development. Ecotourism has been thriving in the area before the project was started due to the presence of the Palpalokada Landscape and Kapurpurawan Rock Formation (Figure 6-10). Income that accrues to tourism prior to and after the transmission line project may be one of the indicators to which the impacts could be assessed whether it was being positively or negatively affected.
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A built cultural heritage, Cape Bojeador was declared as a National Historical Landmark and a National Cultural Treasure. Looking from afar, Tower 33 and the transmission line are captured at its background or at some angles (Figure 6-11). On the other hand, educational appreciation of the ecotourism and cultural heritage sites can be enhanced by the use of wind as a source of energy and how this energy is connected to transmission lines for distribution that also generates benefits that enhance human well-being.
6.4 Impact assessment
6.4.1 Potential sources of impact
Terrestrial flora
Second Growth Forest (TL) The presence of the towers and transmission line created fragmentation and loss of habitat in the wooded areas. These have opened up gaps that could expose some forest species to more vulnerable situations which could include disease infection; for one, the parasitic Cassytha filiformis has the potential to parasitize a wide variety of woody hosts (Nelson 2008), pest infestation, and competition from native pioneers such as Trema orientalis and invasive alien species such as Imperata cylindrica, Chromolaena odorata and Lantana camara already found in the cleared areas. It should be noted however that gaps created during the construction period (clearing) will be minimised by allowing a variety of shrubs, grasses and other vegetation types to grow (with height restriction) under the transmission line and within safe distance in the vicinity of the tower base. The construction of the towers and access road along the TL also increases the potential access to wooded areas which may lead to further destruction of the remaining forest such as increased potential of fire occurrences due to unconscious or reckless human behaviour especially throwing of lighted cigarettes or campers not able to properly put off campfires/bonfires. Illegal cutting of trees may likewise increase due to the opening of access. As part of managing this impact, rehabilitation of the disturbed areas due to opening of temporary access road was undertaken by EBWPC contractor immediately after construction activities. Further, compensation of affected trees and crops were provided to the landowners.
Agricultural lands (TL) The removal of tree windbreaks at portions on the farm where strong winds could result in reduced crop productivity even during the operation of the transmission line, or loss of opportunity and profitability to use certain varieties vulnerable to wind damage. Some of the parent material and subsoils excavated during the construction of the tower foundations mixed with the topsoil. This may reduce future crop yields even during the operation phase of the transmission line, as it may reduce soil fertility and change the soil properties (e.g. structure, pore size distribution, infiltration capacity as it relates to density) needed for the expected, normal productivity of the farms. However, no reports on observed decreased in crop yield was recorded as excavation works are limited only on the base on the TL tower. Excavated materials are either hauled directly elsewhere using dump trucks or used as filling materials for the tower foundation. Old spoils and wastes stockpiled as a result of the excavation and tower construction caused undue disturbance to the work of the farmers. To mitigate this, EBWPC and its contractors provided disturbance compensation. Furthermore, compaction may result after the transport and use of heavy equipment and vehicles traversing these agricultural lands, as well as in the process of stabilizing the
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foundation of the tower itself. This may result in the reduction of vegetative growth and productivity during the operations phase. It should be noted that construction activities was done during harvesting season. Also, plowing of field is practiced by local farmers prior to planting, thus the risk of adversely affecting the soil through compaction is reduced. Should crop damage due to project activities be observed and reported, EBWPC will provide just compensation including payment for the cost of fertilizers and soil conditioning. The landowners will still be allowed to continue with their agricultural activities under the TL and in the vicinity of the towers. However, to ensure the safety of the farmers as well as the general population, crops that may be planted within the ROW will be limited to those not higher than two meters. Even with this restriction, crops normally planted in the area such as rice, corn, vegetables and root crops will remain a viable option for the farmers.
Wetlands (TL) There is no permanent impact on the vegetation removed from the riverside as well as from the marshes since the affected vegetation were very minimal. In fact, evidence of recovery observed during the site visit was the reiteration from trees that were cut, pruned and lopped as well as the new growths of shrubs, herbs, reeds and grasses at the marshes (Plate 6-8).
Plate 6-8 Orthotropic reiterations seen on leaning stem at the riparian area after construction
Coastal ecosystem (Jetty) There is no permanent loss of individuals in terms of coastal vegetation since the coastal vegetation on the direct impact area of the jetty was earth-balled and transplanted right at the periphery of the structure. These are monitored, in terms of survival and growth. Based on the Special Earth-balling Permit obtained from DENR, for every transplanted tree that did not survive after six months, EBWPC shall conduct a replacement planting with a seedling/sapling of indigenous tree species at a ratio of 1:100 as prescribed under DENR 2012-02 known as the Uniform Replacement Ratio for Cut or Relocated Trees.
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Terrestrial Fauna
Loss of species’ habitat and/or habitat fragmentation (TL and Jetty) The clearing activities for the transmission line towers, right-of-way (ROW) path and adjacent area of the jetty have resulted in the removal of vegetation. While the loss of vegetation is permanent, there will be no change in the overall vegetation profile in the area. Since the vegetation community within the project area is mostly agricultural, shrublands and grasslands, removal of vegetation were confined and localized small area. These areas have long been cultivated (e.g. ricefields, agroforest) and are not suitable as permanent habitat for most wildlife, hence the loss of habitat is not expected. Impacts on the population of wildlife will be highly temporary, localized and very short term in nature. This is notwithstanding the fact that the wildlife species in the area are already adapted to such type of disturbance brought by the existing activities in the area (e.g. agriculture).
Hindrance to wildlife access (TL) Transmission tower and wires pose hindrance to species’ access from one area or habitat to another, thereby limiting or affecting species’ movements. Though the affected species will possibly transfer to adjacent area with vegetation cover, other vagrant or accidental migrant species utilizing the area is the most vulnerable. Allowing vegetation growth under the TL and within safe distance from the tower base will provide cover for the movement of small animals such as snakes on the ground.
Collision and electrocution (TL) Bird-wire collision and mortality are of most concern in areas attracting high densities of birds, such as migratory species, and large birds such as waterfowl. Possible collision can occur in sampling Site 2 where transmission line cable passes across Buraan River, an important habitat of Philippine duck (Anas luzonica). These ducks occasionally moved few kilometres northeast and southwest of the sampling area (Site 2). Birds nesting in the towers also pose danger both to the species and to the safe operation of the power line. Large nests eventually fill with droppings that can reach the conductors and cause electric shocks or burns to birds.
Threat to abundance, frequency and distribution of important species (TL and Jetty) Noise generated during maintenance and vegetation pruning along ROW pathways and Jetty will disturb and possibly displace species in the area. Noise may temporarily drive away wildlife to quiet areas to take refuge, but as soon as noise is gone, they are expected to return to the area with vegetation. Dust generated specifically during Jetty construction did not significantly affect wildlife species. During operation, dust generation wills likewise not expected to significantly affect wildlife species as it will be concentrated near the road and will be negligible during the rainy season. Impacts on the population of wildlife on noise and dust will be highly temporary, localized and very short term in nature. This is notwithstanding the fact that the wildlife species in the area are already adapted to such type of disturbance brought by the agricultural activities and proximity of the TL to the existing national and barangay road. No link between the effects of electromagnetic from transmission line and disease were observed during cellular studies and studies of exposed test animals (PSCW 2014).
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Ecosystem services
Provisioning services The impact of the transmission tower and transmission line to terrestrial Provisioning services is the reduced areas for crops and livestock production while for coastal Provisioning services, the reduced area where fish, shells, shrimps and other aquatic organisms were using as habitat, that was used for the construction of the jetty. For safety concerns, agricultural activities directly under the overhead transmission lines may be restricted during the operation of the project. However, restriction will mostly likely be limited to the choice of crops that can be planted under the overhead transmission lines (i.e., less than two meters in height). When the fields are properly restored, the area permanently affected by the transmission line becomes smaller than the area affected during construction. However the coastal area is permanently reduced.
Regulating services The areas occupied by the jetty and towers are habitats for insects and small animals known as pollinators and seed dispersers; the water regulation capability, erosion regulation, and the capability to provide natural hazard regulation.
Supporting services The impact on Supporting services centered on primary production on land and at the coral reefs as well as the habitats that support the organisms responsible for primary production. Likewise, the land that serves to be the base for the provision of food and other economic activities, as well as the coral reefs being host to algae that transforms sunlight and nutrients into biomass, where the food chain of aquatic ecosystems are based.
Cultural services Cultural services affected by the presence of towers and the transmission lines are; i) aesthetic values, ii) eco-tourism, iii) cultural heritage, and iv) educational value. Cultural heritage appreciation is affected, specifically Cape Bojeador, especially in relation to Tower BL33. Aesthetic values, eco-tourism and educational value appreciation may have positive and negative impacts. The presence of the tower and transmission lines may be viewed as a source of diminished aesthetic value of the landscape in the area. Although different tourists may value this development differently if it would trigger the public’s interest or curiosity, the number of tourists may increase. However, if it creates a negative impression on visitors, the number of tourists may decrease.
6.4.2 Evaluation of impacts and mitigation measures
Terrestrial flora
Second growth forest (TL) Allowing the re-growth or making deliberate plantings of a variety of smaller trees and shrubs can help alleviate the loss of habitat and can halt the persistence/dominance of native pioneers and invasive alien species, as well as control soil erosion (Plate 6-9). Species that are already in the area may be used for the deliberate plantings, to eliminate the introduction of new species into the habitat.
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Plate 6-9 New shoots regenerating from cut stems at the second growth forest area
Maintenance activities will include the removal of climbers from around the stems of smaller trees to prevent death due to strangling and overtopping by the climbers/vines. Monitoring of maximum heights and periodic pruning to allowed heights will also be necessary. Grasses and shrubs are allowed to grow to provide ground vegetation for soil stability. Invasive pioneers and alien invasive species will be controlled to maintain even or equal opportunities for other native or endemic species to grow/survive. The increased access to critical areas (i.e., subject to illegal harvesting and vulnerable to fire) will be managed by providing frequent duty/patrol officers or roving security around the area. This may be done in partnership with community members and EBWPC. Roving security personnel will also be oriented on proper waste disposal especially lighted cigarettes, plastics, styrofoam and others. During IEC activities with host communities, topic on wildfire occurrence and its consequences not only to the vegetation but also to the public, the infrastructure and its services will be included The list of trees cut and the resulting Tree Cutting Permit commitments such as replacement planting (i.e,1:100) will be monitored, as required.
Agricultural lands (TL) Spoils and wastes will be properly cleaned up by EBWPC after construction and maintenance activities during the operation phase. Replanting of windbreaks will be agreed upon by EBWPC and the aggrieved farmer using appropriate species (e.g. smaller tree height and crown) Prior communication with the affected communities is necessary prior to the conduct of maintenance activities to prevent health and safety issues. Maintenance activities will be done until after harvest to minimize damage to crop. In cases when it is not possible, proper compensation/negotiation with the farmer/owner is necessary. The timing and location of maintenance activities should consider soil conditions to prevent undue disturbance to the crops. The proponent should provide a means of reporting grievances related to damages with regard to agricultural activities and production or impacts as a result of the construction works. Land-based compensation should be provided to agriculturally-based households. However, for losses that cannot be easily compensated for in monetary terms, IFC (2012) suggests in-kind compensation. This compensation is made in goods or resources that are of equivalent or
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greater value, are culturally appropriate and which can be sustainably maintained by the community. Biodiversity offsets in the form of compensation packages, as per IFC Guidelines (2012) should be given to restore the livelihoods or balance the losses in income of farmers due to the presence of the towers for the transmission line.
Jetty Maintenance and monitoring of the transplanted earth-balled trees and compliance to the commitments in the Tree Cutting Permit (TCP) will be done. Should there be mortalities, the required replacement number of trees based on the stipulations in the TCP or as per DENR Memorandum Order No 2012-02. Monitoring of these trees will be included in the Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) that will be formulated. On the other hand, as specified in IFC PS 6 regarding invasive alien species, EBWPC will exercise diligence not to cause the spread of the parasitic Cassytha filiformis into other EBWPC-maintained areas because the hosts of Cassytha are not only the mangroves but many other inland agricultural or forest tree species. This will be communicated to EBWPC staff especially security guards, because they frequently visit these areas thus can be agents of dispersal, along with their vehicles which could bring propagules of this species to the opened areas along and in between TLs during maintenance and/or monitoring activities. This could cause the introduction of the parasitic species into these areas.
Wetlands A permit was secured from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to eliminate future legal complications on easement requirements (Appendix D). Similar permits should be acquired should the requirement arise.
Terrestrial Fauna
Loss of species’ habitat and/or habitat fragmentation (TL and Jetty) In order to mitigate impacts on species habitat, EBWPC and its subcontractors will ensure that there is minimum clearing of vegetation. Re-vegetation of disturbed areas will be implemented immediately and the use of indigenous species should be prioritized. At the same time, retain and enhance unaffected vegetation and habitat/ecosystem. No exotic and invasive alien species of plants and animals must be introduced to the area during vegetation enhancement or maintenance process.
Hindrance to wildlife access (TL) The Transmission Right-of-Way (ROW) will determine extent of clearing as well as define areas for maintenance. Proponent and its contractors must limit activities to designated area and ROW pathway (Figure 6-10) and establish and maintain corridor or buffer zones within the ROW area for species’ refuge and food source. Buffer zones will also serve as extension of core habitat areas lost during clearing and maintenance activities.
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Figure 6-10 Transmission Right-of-Way (ROW) scheme
Image courtesy to Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (2014)
Collision and electrocution (TL) It has been identified during the collection of the baseline data that the transmission line does not intersect any major bird migration routes. However, species-wire collision is still possible based on the number of species recorded in the area. Avian mortality from transmission/power line collision is well documented especially in the US. Taking consideration of the potential impacts of bird and bat collision to transmission/power line collision, proposed mitigation includes marking of static wires with aviation spheres and flight diverters (Plate 6-10) in selected tower line (e.g. Site 2) with significant mortality during monitoring process. Studies found that increasing the visibility of lines resulted in a statistically significant reduction of collision risk (http://www.aplic.org).
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Plate 6-10 Sample flight diverters installed in TL w ires
During daytime During night time
Photo courtesy to P&R Tech (2014)
Marking device such as flight diverters are low cost, stand out like a beacon against background features, letting birds see where the power lines are (Figure 6-11). Diverters also make a noise that birds can hear when swayed by winds. After glow diverters are designed to prevent collisions between birds and hard-to-see power lines day or night. Some diverter glows up to 10 hours after the sun has set, providing extended protection for at risk birds.
Figure 6-11 Sample of positioning line marking devices on transmission lines
Image courtesy after Eskom Transmission, South Africa (2009)
Threat to abundance, frequency and distribution of important species (TL and Jetty) Maintenance workers will be discouraged from making unnecessary noise and engaging in the exploitation of natural resources such as hunting and collection of forest products such as wood. Workers must ensure that food is not disposed of along the transmission line or towers and
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Jetty area during maintenance activities. Feeding of wild animals can contribute to behavioural change, which may encourage them to raid homes for food. While the transmission towers does not fall within any bird migration routes, EBWPC will conduct monitoring of bird collisions or electrocutions along the transmission line, and where evident in any significant numbers, will put additional wire-marking reflectors in place.
Critical Habitats and Biodiversity Offsets A summary of the critical habitats affected during the construction of the jetty as well as the towers for the transmission lines is shown in Table 6-18. Natural critical habitats in this case include: 1) habitat of significant importance to Critically Endangered and/or Endangered species as listed on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and nationally-listed species categorization that correspond well to those of the IUCN; 2) habitat of significant importance to endemic and/or restricted-range species; 3) habitat supporting globally significant concentrations of migratory species and/or congregatory species; 4) highly threatened and/or unique ecosystems; and/or 5) areas associated with key evolutionary processes. Within the modified habitat, there are types of agricultural lands including the following areas: 1) irrigated and irrigable lands, other lands suitable for agriculture whether irrigated or not; 2) highland areas planted with crops or have the potential to grow high value crops; and 3) all fishery areas The 24 towers assessed during the field visit were located in irrigated and irrigable lands and other lands suitable for agriculture. Under IFC Performance Standard 6, this agricultural protected area can be classified under Modified Critical habitats.
Table 6-18 Summary of critical habitats affected by the Transmission Line and Jetty Projects Habitat Type of Location Project Basis Remarks biodiversity Marine Coral reefs Barangay Jetty Proclamation No Over-all mean live Ablan, 2146 coral cover Burgos documented is 40.7% (fair); For monitoring Coastal Mangroves Barangay Jetty Proclamation No Affected individuals Ablan, 2152; Presidential were earth-balled; Burgos Decree No 705; For monitoring Administrative Order No 15 Series of 1990 Terrestrial Agricultural Burgos, Towers RA 8435 AFMA Area with Annual flora Pasuquin, crops – 73 towers; Bacarra, Area with perennial Laoag crops – 13 towers; For monitoring Forested/ Burgos Towers DAO 2007- Endemic and wooded and 01;IUCN threatened species; Pasuquin For monitoring Terrestrial Wild ducks Buraan Tower 24 DAO 2004- Endemic; fauna (Anas River 15;IUCN Vulnerable; For luzonica) monitoring
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EDC’s Greening Legacy – the BINHI Program includes biodiversity offsets in addition to nationwide reforestation and restoration of vanishing native and premium Philippine tree species. It can aptly be EBWPC’s biodiversity offset program, being an affiliate of EDC. Aside from the environmental benefits of BINHI, the Program serves the livelihood to the host communities; following the biodiversity offset principles, not only on the ecological aspect (i.e. intrinsic values) of biodiversity, but also to embrace its socioeconomic and cultural values. The BINHI Program in Ilocos Norte started in the municipalities of Burgos and Solsona since 2011 following the BINHI Tree for Life (TFL), covering 210 hectares with 161,110 seedlings planted. The BINHI Tree for Food (TFF) Program established 3,000 mango seedlings within the Integrated Social Forestry (ISF) areas of Tanap Watershed. The BINHI Tree for the Future (TFTF) module that has been implemented by the Burgos Wind Project since 2013 is focused on establishing tree parks in schools and public areas, promoting endangered Philippine tree species intended to produce mother trees that will supply seeds/planting stocks for future planting initiatives. To date, 7 schools in Burgos are already partners for this program. Furthermore, Executive Order No 26 or the National Greening Program, a government-enforced offset is also being supported by EBWPC. Two NGP sites had already been planted in the Municipality of Pagudpud and the Municipality of Vintar in Ilocos Norte, with a total of 119,766 seedlings in 384 hectares.
6.5 Conclusions
6.5.1 Terrestrial flora
In summary, the impacts of the projects on terrestrial flora are manageable. Areas to be monitored will include transects with threatened species in Burgos and Pasuquin, and compliances to TCP and other permits. EDC workers will be oriented about the potential threat of invasive species, and will be given practical guidelines to prevent invasive species from spreading within and outside of the project footprint. Community members will also be informed during IEC on the potential threat of invasive species primarily its effects on their farms. Project activities will be closely monitored such that the Project itself does not contribute to the spread of this species. Mechanical control may need to be undertaken (e.g. physical removal) should this species encroach areas within the project footprint.
6.5.2 Terrestrial fauna
Based on the selected location for the transmission line and the jetty, the Project is not expected to substantially affect terrestrial fauna. Vulnerability to species collision mainly by migratory species will not be high or severe compared to other projects the location of which sits along migratory routes. With mitigation that includes the use of buffers, timing restrictions during clearing and maintenance, the use of bird deflectors at sensitive sites, the restriction of hunting and collection by project workers, the predicted residual effects on wildlife species are expected to be low and local. Monitoring will be done as necessary for some areas with high probability of impacts to ensure compliance, and to verify effects predictions on local wildlife populations that will be affected.
6.5.3 Ecosystem services
EBWPC will comply with the conditions of its permits and continue supporting the National Greening Program. As an enhancement option, EBWPC will continue supporting EDC’s BINHI program. Summary of impacts and mitigation measures on biodiversity and conservation is presented in Table 6-19.
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Table 6-19 Key impacts and proposed mitigation/enhancement measures
Key impacts Phases Potential Options for prevention/ significance mitigation or enhancement
Construction Operation TL Jetty
Loss of species Low High Rehabilitation/ habitat and/or revegetation of opened habitat areas immediately after fragmentation construction using indigenous species Allowing re-growth or making deliberate plantings Maintenance and monitoring of transplanted earth-balled trees Implementation of commitments to Tree
Cutting Permit
Hindrance to wildlife High None Limit activities to access designated areas and ROW pathway Establish and maintain corridor or buffer zones
Collision and High None Marking of static wires electrocution with aviation spheres and
flight diverters (in Site 2)
Threat to High High Conduct of IEC to abundance, maintenance workers not frequency and to engage in activities that distribution of exploit natural resources important species (e.g. hunting and collection of forest products) Orientation of maintenance workers on wildlife conservation (e.g. not feeding of wild animals) Monitoring of bird collision or electrocutions
Increase access to Low None Rehabilitation of opened critical areas areas immediately after construction Provide frequent duty/patrol/roving security officers Implementation of commitments to Tree Cutting Permit
Ecosystem services High None – Reduced areas for crops and livestock production
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6.6 References
Alcala AC.1986. Guide to Philippine Flora and Fauna: Amphibians & Reptiles. Volume 10. Manila Natural Resources Management Center—University of the Philippines.
Alcala AC and WC Brown. 1998. Philippine Amphibians: An Illustrated Field Guide. Makati City. Bookmark Inc.
Alviola, P III (2001). Study on the movements of migratory birds in Ilocos Norte and the possible impacts of windmills and transmission line on the flyway of migratory birds. Unpublished.
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