South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report

Report Prepared by: Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd Obo IKE JV

EAS Project Number: 1503

25 June 2019

Prepared for: Mandela Development Agency (MBDA) 1st Floor, Tramways Building Corner Lower Valley Road & South Union Street Port Elizabeth, 6001

Prepared by: Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd 73 Heugh Road, Walmer, Port Elizabeth, 6013 Tel: +27 (0) 41 581 2421

EAS Project Number: 1503

25 June 2019

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

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

Compiled by: Name Company Email Mr Jamie Pote (Ecology) Engineering Advice & Services (Ecological) [email protected] Mr Daniel Schroeder (GIS) Engineering Advice & Services (GIS) [email protected] Mr Kurt Wicht (Environmental) Engineering Advice & Services (Botanical) [email protected] Dr Anton Bok Anton Bok and Associates (Aquatic/Fish) [email protected] EAS Ref: F:\1500-1599\1503\Environmental\Reports\BAR Report\Final\1503 - Appendix D - South End Precinct Ecological Assessment Report - 20190625 (fBAR).docx

South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report 25 June 2019

Table of Contents 1 Introduction & Background ...... 1 1.1 South End Mixed Use Precinct Objectives ...... 2 1.2 Methodology and Approach ...... 3 1.3 Proposed Approach ...... 3 1.4 Legislation Framework ...... 4 1.5 Systematic Planning Frameworks ...... 7 1.5.1 Vegetation of South Africa ...... 9 1.5.2 Subtropical Ecosystem Planning (STEP) ...... 12 1.5.3 Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP) ...... 12 1.5.4 Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan ...... 12 1.6 Implications of Systematic Planning frameworks ...... 1 1.7 Systematic Planning Maps ...... 1 2 Description of the Terrestrial Environment ...... 11 2.1 Site Locality ...... 11 2.2 Historical Context ...... 11 2.3 Summary of the Terrestrial and Aquatic Environments ...... 12 2.4 Ecological Processes ...... 13 2.5 Flora ...... 13 2.5.1 Species of Special Concern ...... 13 2.5.2 Alien Invasive species and Declared Weeds ...... 15 2.6 Fauna ...... 16 3 Description of the Aquatic Environment ...... 16 3.1 Aquatic Environment ...... 16 3.2 Riparian Vegetation ...... 17 3.2.1 Riparian area indicators ...... 18 3.2.2 Topography associated with the watercourse ...... 18 3.2.3 Vegetation ...... 19 3.2.4 Alluvial soils and deposited material ...... 20 3.2.5 Baakens River Riparian Vegetation Description ...... 20 3.3 Fish ...... 21 3.4 Present Ecological State ...... 22 3.5 Mitigation and Remediation...... 22 4 Impact Assessment ...... 27 4.1 Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts ...... 27 4.1.1 Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts ...... 27 4.1.2 Significance Rating...... 27 4.2 Identification of potential impacts ...... 28 4.2.1 Possible impacts on biodiversity during construction and operations...... 28 4.2.2 Summary of actions, activities, or processes that have sufficiently significant impacts to require mitigation 28 4.2.3 Potential cumulative impacts ...... 28 5 Mitigation and Management ...... 30

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5.1 Vegetation and Flora Clearing and Relocation Plan ...... 31 5.2 Post Construction Rehabilitation Plan ...... 32 5.3 Open Space Rehabilitation and Management Plan ...... 32 5.3.1 Rehabilitation Objective ...... 32 5.4 Exotic Vegetation Management Plan ...... 33 5.5 Fire Management Plan ...... 34 5.5.1 Minimise Fuel Load ...... 34 5.6 Baakens River Management Plan ...... 34 5.6.1 Stormwater and Erosion Management Plan ...... 34 5.6.2 Bank Stabilisation and Removal of Weir Structure ...... 35 6 Conclusions and Recommendations...... 35 7 References ...... 37 8 Appendix A: Photographic Record ...... 39 9 Appendix B: Flora and Fauna species ...... 53 10 Appendix C: Environmental Management Plan ...... 59 10.1 Biodiversity Requirements ...... 59 10.1.1 Infrastructural Requirements ...... 60 10.1.2 Final Rehabilitation ...... 62 10.1.3 Monitoring and Reporting ...... 63 10.1.4 Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-construction environment ...... 63 10.2 Post Construction Rehabilitation Plan ...... 63 10.3 Open Space Rehabilitation and Management Plan ...... 64 10.3.1 Rehabilitation Objective ...... 64 10.4 Exotic Vegetation Management Plan ...... 65 10.5 Fire Management Plan ...... 66 10.5.1 Minimise Fuel Load ...... 66 10.6 Baakens River Management Plan ...... 66 10.6.1 Stormwater and Erosion Management Plan ...... 66 10.6.2 Bank Stabilisation and Removal of Weir Structure) ...... 67 11 Appendix D: Specialist CV, SACNASP Registration and Declaration ...... 68

List of Tables

Table 1: Summary of Biodiversity features...... 7 Table 2: Recommended land use management guidelines in Critical Biodiversity Areas and other categories on the CBA map (NMB Bioregional Plan) ...... 1 Table 3: Flora Species of Special Concern known to occur in the vicinity of the site ...... 14 Table 4: Alien Invasive plants and common weeds present and respective NEMBA classifications...... 15 Table 5: Summary indicating significance of potential impacts (SB = Significance BEFORE Mitigation; SA = Significance AFTER Mitigation) ...... 29

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List of Figures

Figure 1: Locality of study Area and positions of sites R1 – R4 ...... 1 Figure 2: Locality Map ...... 2 Figure 3: Rivers, Estuaries and Wetlands (with 1:50 and 1:100-year floodlines and 100 m Estuarine buffer) ...... 3 Figure 4: Vegetation and Status (Vegmap) ...... 4 Figure 5: STEP Vegetation and Status (STEP) ...... 5 Figure 6: Vegetation and Status (NMB Bioregional Plan) ...... 6 Figure 7: Overall Extent of Vegetation Types (NMB Bioregional Plan) ...... 7 Figure 8: Critical Biodiversity Areas (NMB Bioregional Plan & ECBCP)...... 8 Figure 9: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas (ECBCP): National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA). Inset: the Baakens River Catchment as a Fish Support Area...... 9 Figure 10: Slope Analysis ...... 10 Figure 11: Historical view of lower Valley Road (view of area designated as Site R4 - Erf 1699 South End): Inset (left) - current view. Inset (right) – current remnant of historical buildings...... 11 Figure 12: Typical cross section of a river channel...... 17 Figure 13: Typical cross section of a river channel indicating channel morphology (Resource Directed Measures for Protection of Water Resources: River Ecosystems)...... 19 Figure 14: Location of proposed river remediation (pink -weir removal; purple – bank stabilisation)...... 23 Figure 15: Typical example of Gabion structure ...... 23 Figure 16: Location of proposed fishways (Red – 1.5 m high Barnes Quarry Causeway & Orange - 3 m high Holland Dam Wall ...... 23 Figure 17: Mapped Vegetation and Sensitivity ...... 25 Figure 18: Open Space and Development Plan ...... 26

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Abbreviations

CARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983 CBA Critical Biodiversity Area DEDEAT Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism DEMC Desired Ecological Management Class DWS Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation DWAF Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (former department name) EA Environmental Authorisation ECO Environmental Control Officer EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIR Environmental Impact Report EMC Ecological Management Class EMP Environmental Management Plan EMPr Environmental Management Programme report ER Environmental Representative ESS Ecosystem Services IAP’s Interested and Affected Parties IEM Integrated Environmental Management LM Local Municipality masl meters above sea level NBA National Biodiversity Assessment NEMA National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 NFA National Forests Act NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 NFA National Forest Act 84 of 1998 PEMC Present Ecological Management Class PES Present Ecological State PNCO Provincial Nature and Environment Conservation Ordinance (No. 19 of 1974). RDL Red Data List RHS Right Hand Side RoD Record of Decision SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute SDF Spatial Development Framework SoER State of the Environment Report SSC Species of Special Concern TOPS Threatened of Protected Species ToR Terms of Reference +ve Positive -ve Negative

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Glossary

Corridors: Have important functions as strips of a particular type of landscape differing from adjacent land on both sides. Habitat, ecosystems or undeveloped areas that physically connect habitat patches. Smaller, intervening patches of surviving habitat can also serve as "stepping stones" that link fragmented ecosystems by ensuring that certain ecological processes are maintained within and between groups of habitat fragments. Degraded Land that has been impacted upon by human activities (including introduction of invasive habitat/land: alien plants, light to moderate overgrazing, accelerated soil erosion, dumping of waste), but still retains a degree of its original structure and species composition (although some species loss would have occurred) and where ecological processes still occur (albeit in an altered way). Degraded land is capable of being restored to a near-natural state with appropriate ecological management. Ecological Ecological processes typically only function well where natural vegetation remains, and in Processes: particular where the remaining vegetation is well-connected with other nearby patches of natural vegetation. Loss and fragmentation of natural habitat severely threatens the integrity of ecological processes. Where basic processes are intact, ecosystems are likely to recover more easily from disturbances or inappropriate actions if the actions themselves are not permanent. Conversely, the more interference there has been with basic processes, the greater the severity (and longevity) of effects. Natural processes are complex and interdependent, and it is not possible to predict all the consequences of loss of biodiversity or ecosystem integrity. When a region’s natural or historic level of diversity and integrity is maintained, higher levels of system productivity are supported in the long run and the overall effects of disturbances may be dampened. Ecosystem status: Ecosystem status of terrestrial ecosystems is based on the degree of habitat loss that has occurred in each ecosystem, relative to two thresholds: one for maintaining healthy ecosystem functioning, and one for conserving the majority of species associated with the ecosystem. As natural habitat is lost in an ecosystem, its functioning is increasingly compromised, leading eventually to the collapse of the ecosystem and to loss of species associated with that ecosystem. Ecosystem: All of the organisms of a particular habitat, such as a lake or forest, together with the physical environment in which they live. Endangered: Endangered terrestrial ecosystems have lost significant amounts (more than 60 % lost) of their original natural habitat, so their functioning is compromised. Endemic: A plant or animal species, or a vegetation type, which is naturally restricted to a particular defined region. It is often confused with indigenous, which means ‘native, occurring naturally in a defined area’. Environment: The external circumstances, conditions and objects that affect the existence and development of an individual, organism or group. These circumstances include biophysical, social, economic, historical and cultural aspects. Exotic: Non-indigenous; introduced from elsewhere, may also be a weed or alien invasive species. Exotic species may be invasive or non-invasive. Fragmentation Causes land transformation, an important current process in landscapes as more and more (habitat): development occurs. Habitat: The home of a plant or animal species. Generally, those features of an area inhabited by animal or plant which are essential to its survival. Indigenous: Native; occurring naturally in a defined area.

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Least threatened These ecosystems have lost only a small proportion (more than 80 % remains) of their original terrestrial natural habitat, and are largely intact (although they may be degraded to varying degrees, for ecosystems: example by invasive alien species, overgrazing, or overharvesting from the wild). Riparian: Pertaining to, situated on or associated with a river bank. River corridors: River corridors perform a number of ecological functions such as modulating stream flow, storing water, removing harmful materials from water, and providing habitat for aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. These corridors also have vegetation and soil characteristics distinctly different from surrounding uplands and support higher levels of species diversity, species densities, and rates of biological productivity than most other landscape elements. Rivers provide for migration and exchange between inland and coastal biotas. Transformation: In ecology, transformation refers to adverse changes to biodiversity, typically habitats or ecosystems, through processes such as cultivation, forestry, drainage of wetlands, urban development or invasion by alien plants or animals. Transformation results in habitat fragmentation – the breaking up of a continuous habitat, ecosystem, or landuse type into smaller fragments. Transformed Land that has been significantly impacted upon as a result of human Habitat/Land: interferences/disturbances (such as cultivation, urban development, mining, landscaping, severe overgrazing), and where the original structure, species composition and functioning of ecological processes have been irreversibly altered. Transformed habitats are not capable of being restored to their original states. Tributary/ A small stream or river flowing into a larger one. Drainage line: Untransformed Land that has not been significantly impacted upon by mans activities. These are ecosystems habitat/land: that are in a near-pristine condition in terms of structure, species composition and functioning of ecological processes. Vulnerable: Vulnerable terrestrial ecosystems have lost some (more than 60 % remains) of their original natural habitat and their functioning will be compromised if they continue to lose natural habitat. Weed: An indigenous or non-indigenous plant that grows and reproduces aggressively, usually a ruderal pioneer of disturbed areas. Weeds may be unwanted because they are unsightly, or they limit the growth of other plants by blocking light or using up nutrients from the soil. They can also harbour and spread plant pathogens. Wetlands: A collective term used to describe lands that are sometimes or always covered by shallow water or have saturated soils, and where plants adapted for life in wet conditions usually grow.

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1 Introduction & Background

The Lower Baakens Valley Precinct is one of three catalytic projects Identified for the CBD area of Port Elizabeth in terms of the 2016-2020 Integrated Development Plan (IDP) as well as in the Built Environment Planning Program (BEPP) of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The BEPP report indicates that The Baakens Valley Program is a suite of projects, identified in the Council approved Baakens Precinct Plan. The precinct is divided into four focus areas, each with a unique identity and spatial character that could support new and integrated uses. A key component of the overall vision of this project is recreating the South End of old in the residential development precincts. Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) on behalf of the NMBM (the land owner and applicant) appointed IKE JV to conduct the South End Mixed Use Precinct Project. The South End Mixed Use Precinct Study Area is a component of Area 2 of the Baakens River Precinct. The total study area for the project is approximately 23 Ha and the erven investigated for the intended residential and mixed-use development is approximately 10,8 Ha in extent.

Figure 1: Locality of study Area and positions of sites R1 – R4

The key objectives of the South End Project include the following: • To design a mixed-use affordable housing precinct rooted in the conceptual framework of My Place, Meeting Place and Making Place • To consider the trends within diverse ethnicity and cultures and focus on creating a contemporary housing development for LSMs 6, 7 and 8 • To provide a limited mix of small business units for micro enterprise within this group • To focus on opportunities for the cultural and creative industries for this group • To create an attractive, vibrant and people friendly place that will attract local and international tourist to it • To achieve an urban intensity of scale and an urbane character of development as well as to develop a public environment that may be realised by a far wider spectrum of society. • To provide opportunity for individualised expression but mindful of the economic benefits of scale • To celebrate all the heritages of the precinct – the green, the built and the intangible. • To ensure excellence in the quality of individual housing, commercial and community facilities, in terms of market appeal and architectural expression;

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• To create an easy, safe, convenient and pleasant pedestrian movement, bicycle movement coordinated with ease of vehicular movement and access to well located, safe parking areas.

The intention of the NMBM is to make suitable municipal owned land (portions of erven 86-95, 132-143, 208-212 and 1699, South End, Port Elizabeth) available for residential development and to include a mixed-use component to promote sustainable living in the study area (as per the objectives described above). The goal is to increase the supply of housing opportunities in the Inner City in a manner that will also celebrate the heritage of Old South End as well as to attend to the long-term preservation of public open space as part of the Metropolitan Open Space System.

Four sites referred to as R1 (outlined in green) R2 (outlined in blue) R3 (outlined in red) and R4 (outlined in yellow) have been identified within the greater study area of the South End Mixed Use Precinct (outlined in a broken red line) as indicated on plan below, for possible mixed-use development with emphasis on the residential component. The sites that are vacant are covered by natural and secondary vegetation which has been transformed to a large extent as a result of previous historical land use. The subject sites were also subject to previous studies done by and on behalf of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) including the Inner City Local Spatial Development Framework (ICSDF 2013), Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan (NMBBP 2015) and the Baakens River Precinct Plan (BRPP 2015).

In addition to the mixed-use development of the above properties, the intent is also to develop facilities on erven 1515, 1516, 1537-1542 for tourism and provide links to St Peters, the proposed Zip Line and to develop potential tourism linking to the harbour at the erven along historical Alfred Rd. Some of these erven have remnant foundations from historical structures, that could be redeveloped in a historical context.

In response to comments during the public participation process and further discussions with the application and other role-players, the intent is to also provide or upgrade facilities within the River Park area (on erven 33-36, 38, 40, 44- 48, 50-52) and the Open Space area along the banks of the Baakens River (the northern boundary of the project area). This will include landscaping and beautification of the ‘park area’, upgrading of parking and recreational facilities (such as installation of tables and benches, walkways and street lighting) to enhance the area for public use and safety. In addition, it is proposed to clear the congested river banks of alien vegetation and implement rehabilitation measures on the canalised Baakens River and estuary.

The environmental assessment that was done as part of the BRPP report (prepared by GAPP) concluded that there were certain areas of the undeveloped land that may be suitable for development, thus specific projects were identified and approved by Council and included in the IDP and BEPP reports. Since all the erven concerned are classified as Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) in terms of the Nelson Mandela Bioregional Plan, a detailed ecological assessment of the relevant properties was conducted. The purpose was to identify specific areas that are suitable for development and areas to be retained as open space.

1.1 South End Mixed Use Precinct Objectives

• To design a mixed-use affordable housing precinct rooted in the conceptual framework of My Place, Meeting Place and Making Place • To consider the trends within diverse ethnicity and cultures and focus on creating a contemporary housing development for LSMs 6, 7 and 8 • To provide a limited mix of small business units for micro enterprise within this group • To focus on opportunities for the cultural and creative industries for this group • To create an attractive, vibrant and people friendly place that will attract local and international tourist to it • To achieve an urban intensity of scale and an urbane character of development as well as to develop a public environment that may be realised by a far wider spectrum of society.

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• To provide opportunity for individualised expression but mindful of the economic benefits of scale • To celebrate all the heritages of the precinct – the green, the built and the intangible. • To ensure excellence in the quality of individual housing, commercial and community facilities, in terms of market appeal and architectural expression; • To create an easy, safe, convenient and pleasant pedestrian movement, bicycle movement co-ordinated with ease of vehicular movement and access to well located, safe parking areas and connectivity to surrounding areas (including the harbour, St Peters & surrounding neighbourhoods), recreational and conservation Open Space, including Settlers Park and the Baakens River and River Park area.

All the erven that are included in the sites that were investigated are undeveloped and all the erven are in Municipal ownership, except for erven in R3 where only two erven are in Municipal ownership and three erven are in private ownership. From a land use point of view the development potential of the vacant land was investigated for this study in the light of the long term landuse proposals in the ICLSDF, the allocation of CBA areas in terms of the NMBBP, the proposals for development and projects in the BRPP as well as land use rights (current zoning) to determine the best possible use of the land to comply with the developmental role of the NMBM and to facilitate the identified catalytic project as envisaged in the IDP as well as the BEPP documents of the NMBM. It is thus a high priority for the NMBM to respond to the need for the provision of sustainable housing development in close proximity to the City Centre. The following activities will inter alia occur on the areas that were identified for development: • Clearing of vegetation from the identified sites that proposed as suitable for development • Levelling and landscaping the identified sites for residential / mixed use development • Establishment of internal roads to provide vehicular access to residential buildings • Establishment of internal services and integration into present infrastructure network • The establishment of stormwater drainage patterns and integration into current network • Identification of public and private open spaces for benefit of residents, community and visitors • Confirmation of ecological corridors with linkages towards the Baakens Valley and the harbour • Reflection of the heritage of Old South End in the more detailed planning

1.2 Methodology and Approach

Specific terms of reference include: • Confirm all the Environmentally Sensitive aspects relating to vegetation and flora areas along the route; • Collect sufficient information to inform a Basic Assessment Report (BAR) which has to be submitted to Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) and Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation (DWS) for water use licence applications; • Identify all relevant legislation or policies that may be applicable to this project in the Eastern Cape; • Undertake field studies, if required; • Identify and rate all significant impacts associated with the proposed development; and • Recommend mitigations measures to minimise or prevent impact on the sensitive features of the study area.

1.3 Proposed Approach

The Ecological Assessment Report will be compiled to include the following aspects: • Undertake a desktop assessment of available data layers (vegetation types, red data book species, bioregional plans, etc.), literature and legislation or polices. • Conduct a site assessment of the entire proposed site including verification of the desktop assessment and route sensitivity mapping.

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• Describe and rate the potential vegetation and botanical impacts including an overall rating of the ecological sensitivity of the route and the effect of the development on the ecology of the site. • Identify and rate potential impacts and mitigation measures for negative and positive impacts. • Make recommendations for the Environmental Management Programme Report.

1.4 Legislation Framework

In terms of NEMA EIA Regulations (as amended 04 December 2014, as amended 07 April 2017), the following Listing notices have bearing on this report: LN1 Basic Assessment Comments 12 The development of: Activities within the (i) dams or weirs, where the dam or weir, including infrastructure and water proposed development will surface area, exceeds 100 square metres; or result in infrastructure (ii) infrastructure or structures with a physical footprint of 100 square metres greater than 100 square or more; meters within watercourses where such development occurs— or within 32 m of (a) within a watercourse; watercourses. (b) in front of a development setback; or (c) if no development setback exists, within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse; excluding— (aa) the development of infrastructure or structures within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or harbour; (bb) where such development activities are related to the development of a port or harbour, in which case activity 26 in Listing Notice 2 of 2014 applies; (cc) activities listed in activity 14 in Listing Notice 2 of 2014 or activity 14 in Listing Notice 3 of 2014, in which case that activity applies; (dd) where such development occurs within an urban area; (ee) where such development occurs within existing roads, road reserves or railway line reserves; or ( ff ) the development of temporary infrastructure or structures where such infrastructure or structures will be removed within 6 weeks of the commencement of development and where indigenous vegetation will not be cleared. 17 Development— Activities within the (i) in the sea; proposed development will (ii) in an estuary; result in infrastructure (iii) within the littoral active zone; greater than 50 square (iv) in front of a development setback; or (v) if no development setback exists, within a distance of 100 metres inland meters within an estuary or of the high-water mark of the sea or an estuary, whichever is the greater; within 100 m inland of the in respect of— high-water mark of the (a) fixed or floating jetties and slipways; estuary. (b) tidal pools; (c) embankments; (d) rock revetments or stabilising structures including stabilising walls; (e) infrastructure or structures with a development footprint of 50 square metres or more — but excluding—

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(aa) the development of infrastructure and structures within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or harbour; (bb) where such development is related to the development of a port or harbour, in which case activity 26 in Listing Notice 2 of 2014 applies; (cc) the development of temporary infrastructure or structures where such structures will be removed within 6 weeks of the commencement of development and where coral or indigenous vegetation will not be cleared; or (dd) where such development occurs within an urban area 19 The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 10 cubic metres into, Activities within the or the dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell proposed development will grit, pebbles or rock of more than 10 cubic metres from a watercourse; result in the infilling or

depositing of any material but excluding where such infilling, depositing, dredging, excavation, removal or moving— of more than 10 cubic (a) will occur behind a development setback; metres into, or the (b) is for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a dredging, excavation, maintenance management plan; removal or moving of soil, (c) falls within the ambit of activity 21 in this Notice, in which case that activity sand, shells, shell grit, applies. pebbles or rock of more (d) occurs within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the than 10 cubic metres from a development footprint of the port or harbour; or (e) where such development is related to the development of a port or watercourse. harbour, in which case activity 26 in Listing Notice 2 of 2014 applies. 27. The clearance of an area of 1 hectare or more, but less than 20 hectares of The proposed development indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous will result in the clearing of vegetation is required for— greater than 1 Ha of (i) the undertaking of a linear activity; or vegetation that has a (ii) purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management history of disturbance plan. resulting from previous Note: “indigenous vegetation” refers to vegetation consisting of residential use and forced indigenous plant species occurring naturally in an area, regardless of the removals. level of alien infestation and where the topsoil has not been lawfully disturbed during the preceding ten years;

LN 2 Full Scoping and EIA N/A N/A No affected triggers LN3 Basic Assessment 12 The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous Greater than 300 m2 of vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required indigenous vegetation will for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance be cleared: management plan. i. Algoa Sandstone Fynbos (a) Eastern Cape (Endangered) is present i. Within any critically endangered or endangered ecosystem listed in terms ii. Site within ECBCP CBA 2 of section 52 of the NEMBA or prior to the publication of such a list, within and within NMBM an area that has been identified as critically endangered in the National Bioregional Plan CBA area. Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004; iii. none in vicinity ii. Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans; iv. not outside of urban iii. Within the littoral active zone or 100 metres inland from high water mark area. of the sea or an estuarine functional zone, whichever distance is the greater, v. Zoned open space or excluding where such removal will occur behind the development setback conservation an indicated line on erven in urban areas;

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iv. Outside urban areas, within 100 metres inland from an estuarine as Open Space in the NMB functional zone; or SDF and LSDF. v. On land, where, at the time of the coming into effect of this Notice or thereafter such land was zoned open space, conservation or had an equivalent zoning. 14 The development of - Activities within the (i) dams or weirs, where the dam or weir, including infrastructure and water proposed development will surface area exceeds 10 square metres; or result in infrastructure (ii) infrastructure or structures with a physical footprint of 10 square metres greater than 10 square or more; meters within watercourses where such development occurs - or within 32 m of (a) within a watercourse; watercourses within Critical (b) in front of a development setback; or biodiversity areas or (c) if no development setback has been adopted, within 32 metres of a ecosystem service areas as watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse; identified in systematic excluding the development of infrastructure or structures within existing ports biodiversity plans adopted or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or by the competent authority harbour. or in bioregional plans; (a) Eastern Cape within 5 kilometres from any i. Outside urban areas: other protected area (aa) A protected area identified in terms of NEMPAA, excluding identified in terms of conservancies; NEMPAA; within an (bb) National Protected Area Expansion Strategy Focus areas; estuarine functional zone (cc) World Heritage Sites; and within areas (dd) Sensitive areas as identified in an environmental management designated for conservation framework as contemplated in chapter 5 of the Act and as adopted by the use in Spatial development competent authority; frameworks adopted by the (ee) Sites or areas identified in terms of an international convention; competent authority within (ff) Critical biodiversity areas or ecosystem service areas as identified in an urban area. systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans; (gg) Core areas in biosphere reserves; (hh) Areas within 10 kilometres from national parks or world heritage sites or 5 kilometres from any other protected area identified in terms of NEMPAA or from the core area of a biosphere reserve; (ii) Areas seawards of the development setback line or within 1 kilometre from the high-water mark of the sea if no such development setback line is determined; or (jj) In an estuarine functional zone, excluding areas falling behind the development setback line; or ii. Inside urban areas: (aa) Areas zoned for use as public open space; (bb) Areas designated for conservation use in Spatial development frameworks adopted by the competent authority, zoned for a conservation purpose; or (cc) Areas seawards of the development setback line.

Other relevant legislation includes the following:

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EIA Regulations (08 December 2014; GN R. 982 as amended (07 April 2017): Published in terms of NEMA trigger the need for applicants to undertake either a Basic Assessment or Scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment if the proposed activity is included in one or more of the three Listing Notices; and Listing Notice 3 (listing activities and sensitive areas per province, for which a Basic Assessment process must be conducted).

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

NEMA: Environmental management principles set out in NEMA, and other Specific Environmental Management Acts (SEMAs) should guide decision making throughout the project life cycle to reflect the objective of sustainable development. One of the most important and relevant principles is that disturbance of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, pollution and degradation of environment and sites that constitute the nation’s cultural heritage should be avoided, minimised or as a last option remedied. This is supported by the Biodiversity Act as it relates to loss of biodiversity.

Liability for any environmental damage, pollution, or ecological degradation: Arising from any and all -related activities occurring inside or outside the area to which the permission/right/permit relates is the responsibility of the rights holder. The National Water Act and NEMA both oblige any person to take all reasonable measures to prevent pollution or degradation from occurring, continuing or reoccurring (polluter pays principle). Where a person/company fails to take such measures, a relevant authority may direct specific measures to be taken and, failing that, may carry out such measures and recover costs from the person responsible.

Public participation: Public consultation and participation processes prior to granting licences or authorisations can be an effective way of ensuring that the range of ways in which the activities impact on the environment, social and economic conditions are addressed, and taken into account when the administrative discretion to grant or refuse the licence is made.

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

National Forests Act 84 of 1998 with Amendments: Lists Protected trees, requiring permits for removal Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries).

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1993: Lists Alien invasive species requiring removal.

Eastern Cape Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974: Lists Protected species, requiring permits for removal (Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism).

1.5 Systematic Planning Frameworks

A screening of Systematic Planning Framework for the region is summarised in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Summary of Biodiversity features.

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Feature Description Implications/Comment Affected Vegetation Algoa Sandstone Fynbos Endangered Types (National) Groot Thicket Least Threatened High conservation status at national level. Requires on site specialist assessment. Although the vegetation type is endangered, the majority Critically Endangered Algoa Sandstone Fynbos of the vegetation on site is confirmed to be secondary in and Endangered (Endangered) nature and not of the vegetation type indicated. A few Ecosystems (National) remnant portions of intact vegetation are present in steeper areas that have not historically been developed or disturbed. Vulnerable Ecosystems None N/A (National) Bethelsdorp Bontveld Vulnerable Affected Vegetation Algoa Grassy Fynbos Vulnerable Types (STEP) Colchester Strandveld Vulnerable High conservation status at regional level. Requires on site specialist assessment. Although the Baakens Grassy Fynbos is critically endangered, the vegetation on a large portion of the site is confirmed to be primarily secondary in nature and not Baakens Grassy Fynbos indicative or typical of the vegetation type indicated. A and Baakens Forest few remnant portions of intact Grassy Fynbos vegetation Affected Vegetation Thicket are present in areas on the slopes in the north-western Types (Regional) (both Critically portion, south of the Baakens River. Areas of intact Endangered) original vegetation have been indicated as No-Go areas in the sensitivity mapping. The Baakens Forest Thicket, where still present, is predominantly intact although alien invasion is dense in patches. None will be affected by the proposed development Requires on site specialist assessment. The recommendations for CBA’s is as follows: Functional landscapes: Manage for sustainable development, keeping natural habitat intact in wetlands (including wetland buffers) and riparian zones. Environmental authorisations should support ecosystem integrity. Transformed landscapes: Manage for sustainable Critical Biodiversity Areas CBA 2 development. (Regional: ECBCP)

Since the site can be regarded as being a combination of Functional and Transformed landscape and has no wetlands or riparian areas away from the Baakens River, development of the transformed portions of the site is feasible in terms of national guidelines. The Baakens River is canalised more or less downstream of the Bridge

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Feature Description Implications/Comment street bridge and riparian vegetation downstream can be considered to be minimal i.t.o functionality. Most of the undeveloped erven within the proposed Critical Biodiversity Areas development area are identified in the gazetted NMB (Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan as a Critical Biodiversity Areas. The Bioregional Plan) north-western portion is part of the Baakens protected area and is designated PA1. Refer to Table 2. Ecological Support Areas The site is NOT identified in the gazetted Municipal (Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan as an Ecological Support Area. Bioregional Plan) The lower Baakens River still supports fish species of Aquatic Critical Aquatic Critical considerable conservation importance and although Biodiversity Areas Biodiversity Area 2 (A2a) presently modified, should not be further degraded. The fish sanctuary status of the Baakens River is due to Fish sanctuary the presence of more than one population of endangered National Freshwater Estuarine (national fish species, but as the aquatic habitats have a Ecosystem Priority Areas wetland map) moderately modified ecological condition, the river is identified as a Fish Support Area IBA's None N/A Protected Areas within 5 The development will be outside of the protected area, Settlers Park km but is adjacent to the Settlers Park Nature Reserve. National Parks within 10 N/A The development will be outside of the protected None km area, but is adjacent to the Settlers Park Nature Reserve. CBA 2 (A2a): Important sub-catchments – supporting zone required for preventing degradation of A1 rivers. Quaternary Catchment M20A (Baakens) Require moderate or high protection. Defined as all remaining areas within the designed river catchment network not in A1 Located to the north of the site. The proposed River Names within development will occur in proximity to the Baakens River, Baakens River Study Area but no direct development is proposed within the river as a result of the development. Baakens River It is proposed to undertake some rehabilitation measures along the Baakens River, which will include stabilisation Within 32 m of a of the north river banks upstream of the Bridge Street watercourse/wetland bridge. These activities will take place within the watercourse or within 32 m of the watercourse. The surrounding area is predominantly developed and Surrounding Land Uses Residential erven developed erven. The site abuts the Baakens River to the north.

1.5.1 Vegetation of South Africa Three vegetation units as per the National Vegmap classification are present in the vicinity of the site, Algoa Dune Strandveld, Algoa Sandstone Fynbos and Groot Thicket.

Algoa Dune Strandveld (AZs1) Distribution Eastern Cape Province: Narrow coastal strip along the Indian Ocean seaboard from the mouth of the Tsitsikamma River to the Sundays River mouth.

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Vegetation & Landscape Features Tall (up to 5 m) dense thickets on dunes mainly outside the influence of salt spray, dominated by stunted trees, shrubs (often armed with spines and thorns), abundant lianas and sparse herbaceous and grassy undergrowth. Geology, Soils & Hydrology Aeolian dune sands of the Schelm Hoek Formation of the Algoa Group. Climate Nonseasonal precipitation regime, with MAP approximately 680 mm, of which about 300 mm falls in summer (October–March) and 350 mm in winter (April–September). The mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures are 25.1°C and 8.3°C for February and July, respectively. Important Taxa (Stunted shrubby forms of trees) Succulent Tree: Aloe africana (d). Succulent Shrubs: Cotyledon velutina, Lycium cinereum, Zygophyllum morgsana. Tall Shrubs: Azima tetracantha (d), Brachylaena discolor (d), Chrysanthemoides monilifera (d), Cussonia thyrsiflora (d), Euclea racemosa subsp. racemosa (d), Maytenus procumbens (d), Mystroxylon aethiopicum (d), Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus (d), Rhus crenata (d), Schotia afra var. afra (d), Scutia myrtina (d), Sideroxylon inerme (d), Tarchonanthus littoralis (d), Canthium spinosum, Cassine peragua, Dovyalis rotundifolia, Euclea natalensis, E. racemosa subsp. macrophylla, Grewia occidentalis, Gymnosporia buxifolia, G. capitata, Nylandtia spinosa, Olea exasperata, Putterlickia pyracantha, Rhus glauca, R. pterota, Zanthoxylum capense. Low Shrubs: Carissa bispinosa (d), Dimorphotheca fruticosa, Pelargonium suburbanum subsp. suburbanum, Robsonodendron maritimum. Succulent Woody Climber: Sarcostemma viminale. Woody Climbers: Rhoicissus digitata (d), Asparagus retrofractus, Solanum africanum. Herbaceous Climbers: Cynanchum natalitium (d), C. ellipticum, C. obtusifolium, Secamone alpini. Succulent Herb: Sansevieria hyacinthoides. Graminoids: Brachiaria chusqueoides (d), Panicum deustum. Endemic Taxa Succulent Shrub: Cotyledon adscendens. Tall Shrubs: Gymnosporia elliptica, Rapanea gilliana. Herb: Lobelia zwartkopensis. Geophytic Herb: Brunsvigia litoralis. Conservation Least threatened. Target 20%. About 4% statutorily conserved in the Greater Addo Elephant National Park, Cape Recife, Sardinia Bay, The Island, Kromme River Mouth, Gamtoos River Mouth, Huisklip, Cape St Francis and Seal Point Nature Reserves as well as in the private Upe and Rebelsrus Nature Reserves, Thyspunt Natural Heritage Site and in the Seaview Game Park. More than 10% already transformed for cultivation, urban development and road building. Some of the dune systems suffer heavy infestation by Acacia cyclops and A. saligna, which are now being removed by the local Working for Water activities. Erosion very low (63%) and moderate (10%). Remarks The structure and dynamics of this vegetation unit are similar to those of the thickets of FS 9 Groot Brak Dune Strandveld. However, the present unit differs from the latter in having a richer assemblage of woody species. It is somewhat surprising that forest vegetation is not dominant in this seemingly suitable climatic regime. This is probably because the substrate consists of aeolian quaternary sands, salt-laden winds are prevalent in this region and because fires may periodically occur here (Vlok & Euston-Brown 2002).

Algoa Sandstone Fynbos (FFs29) Distribution Eastern Cape Province: Coastal flats at Port Elizabeth from Van Stadens River in the west to Southdene- Summerstrand in the east, located mostly some kilometres from the coast and close to the coast at only Maitland River Mouth and urbanised Summerstrand. Altitude 20–300 m. Vegetation & Landscape Features Flat to slightly undulating plain supporting grassy shrubland (mainly graminoid fynbos). Grasses become dominant especially in wet habitats. In the south this fynbos unit borders on AT 9 Albany Coastal Belt and AZs 1 Algoa Dune Strandveld and forms transitional mosaics with both. It also borders on patches of FOz 6 Southern Coastal Forest in this area. Geology & Soils Acidic lithosol soils derived from Ordovician sandstones of the Table Mountain Group (Cape Supergroup). Land types mainly Db and Ha. Climate MAP 560–890 mm (mean: 680 mm), evenly throughout the year, with a slight peak in March and October. Mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures 25.2°C and 7.6°C for February and July, respectively. Frost incidence about 3 days per year. Important Taxa Tall Shrubs: Protea eximia, P. neriifolia, P. repens. Low Shrubs: Agathosma hirta, A. ovata, Erica zeyheriana, Euryops ericifolius, Helichrysum appendiculatum, H. teretifolium, Leucadendron salignum, L. spissifolium subsp. phillipsii, Leucospermum cuneiforme, Protea cynaroides, P. foliosa, Tephrosia capensis. Succulent Herb: Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis. Graminoids: Andropogon eucomus, Brachiaria serrata, Cymbopogon

10 South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report 25 June 2019 pospischilii, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria eriantha, Ehrharta calycina, Eustachys paspaloides, Ischyrolepis capensis, Pentaschistis heptamera, P. pallida, Thamnochortus cinereus, Themeda triandra, Tristachya leucothrix. Endemic Taxa (Wetlands) Low Shrubs: Agathosma gonaquensis, Cyclopia pubescens, Erica etheliae. Geophytic Herb: Holothrix longicornu. Conservation Endangered. Target 23%. About 2% conserved in the Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve, The Island Nature Reserve as well as in several private nature reserves. More than 50% transformed (cultivation, urban sprawl of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area). Several Australian Acacia species occur as invasive aliens, but only to a limited extent. Erosion moderate and very low.

Groot Thicket (AT3) Distribution Eastern Cape Province: Lower slopes and ridges from Willowmore/Perdepoort in the west to the Klein Winterhoek/Zuurberg Mountains (northwest of Kirkwood) in the east including some narrow northern edges of the Baviaanskloof and Groot Winterhoek Mountains as well as the thicket of the central and upper Baviaanskloof (also narrow tributaries, for example, the Kouga River). Altitude ranges from about 200–1 100 m. Vegetation & Landscape Features Moderate to steep slopes on the ridges of the mountain ranges dominated by a low succulent thicket, usually fairly dense and closed. Under favourable conditions spekboom (Portulacaria afra) is abundant amongst sometimes dense stands of other low woody shrubs. Stem- and leaf-succulents are present and may be prominent, and the grass component is usually poorly developed. Geology & Soils Commonly found on steep slopes with relatively shallow, red, clayey and often rocky soils that are derived from a variety of parent materials, usually arenites and shales. Geological Groups include Table Mountain, Witteberg, Dwyka and Ecca. The dominant land types are Ib and Fc, followed by Ag and Fb. Climate Subjected to summer droughts, but regular winter rain may decrease the impact of these droughts. MAP is relatively low, generally 250–450 mm; the rainfall is nonseasonal, with slight optima in March and November. The mean coefficient of variation in MAP is 35% for this vegetation unit; frost incidence varies from about 5 days of frost per annum in the east to around 65 days in the western parts. Mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures for Willowmore are 37.7°C and –3.1°C for January and July, respectively, although there are smaller extremes in the east than the west. See also climate diagram for AT 3 Groot Thicket (Figure 10.4). Important Taxa Succulent Trees: Aloe ferox, Euphorbia tetragona. Small Trees: Acacia karroo, Boscia albitrunca, Cussonia spicata, Encephalartos lehmannii, Ozoroa mucronata, Pappea capensis, Schotia afra var. afra, Sideroxylon inerme. Tall Shrubs: Euclea undulata (d), Grewia robusta (d), Carissa bispinosa subsp. bispinosa, Dodonaea viscosa var. angustifolia, Elytropappus rhinocerotis, Gymnosporia polyacantha, Putterlickia pyracantha, Rhigozum obovatum, Rhus longispina, R. lucida. Succulent Shrubs: Crassula cultrata (d), C. ovata (d), C. rupestris subsp. commutata (d), Euphorbia ledienii (d), Portulacaria afra (d), Adromischus cristatus var. schonlandii, Cotyledon tomentosa subsp. tomentosa, Crassula tetragona subsp. robusta, Euphorbia mauritanica, E. polygona, Glottiphyllum oligocarpum, G. salmii, Pachypodium succulentum, Senecio junceus, Zygophyllum foetidum. Low Shrubs: Chrysocoma ciliata (d), Felicia muricata (d), Indigofera denudata (d), Aptosimum elongatum, Asparagus burchellii, A. mucronatus, A. subulatus, Eriocephalus africanus, E. capitellatus, E. ericoides, Euryops spathaceus, Felicia filifolia, Hermannia gracilis, Leucas capensis, Limeum aethiopicum (d), Lycium oxycarpum, Monechma spartioides, Pteronia adenocarpa, P. incana, Rosenia humilis, Selago albida, S. fruticosa, Solanum tomentosum. Semiparasitic Epiphytic Shrub: Viscum rotundifolium. Woody Succulent Climbers: Crassula perforata (d), Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis, Sarcostemma viminale. Woody Climbers: Asparagus racemosus, Capparis sepiaria var. citrifolia, Cissampelos capensis, Rhoicissus digitata. Graminoids: Aristida adscensionis (d), A. congesta (d), Cynodon incompletus (d), Eragrostis obtusa (d), Setaria lindenbergiana (d), Tragus berteronianus (d), Cenchrus ciliaris, Cymbopogon pospischilii, Ehrharta calycina, Enneapogon desvauxii, Eragrostis curvula, Merxmuellera stricta, Sporobolus fimbriatus. Succulent Herbs: Crassula muscosa (d), C. orbicularis (d), Crassula expansa, Psilocaulon junceum. Geophytic Herbs: Asplenium cordatum, Boophone disticha, Moraea pallida, Sansevieria hyacinthoides. Herbs: Aizoon glinoides (d), Troglophyton capillaceum (d), Hermannia pulverata, Lepidium africanum, Pollichia campestris, Stachys aethiopica. Endemic Taxa Succulent Shrubs: Aloe pictifolia. Succulent Herbs: Huernia brevirostris subsp. baviaana, H. echidnopsioides, Gasteria ellaphieae, G. glomerata, G. rawlinsonii, Haworthia glauca var. herrei, H. pungens, H. zantneriana var. minor, Stapelia kougabergensis, Tromotriche baylissii, T. longii. Geophytic Herbs: Albuca cremnophila, Bulbine cremnophila. Conservation Least threatened. Target 19%. About 11% statutorily conserved mainly in the Greater Addo Elephant National Park, Guerna Wilderness Area and Baviaanskloof Conservation Area. 3.5% conserved in addition in other reserves, for example in the Timbili Game Reserve and Brakkefontein Game Farm. Only about 1.5% transformed mainly through urbanisation and cultivation. Many parts have been opened up by overgrazing and poor management

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practices and fence-line contrasts along mountain slopes are fairly common, with thicket present on one side and absent on the other. Erosion is generally very low to moderate. Remarks Although there are several species endemic to the Groot Thicket, many Albany Centre endemics are shared with the Kowie, Gamka, Gamtoos and Sundays Thicket vegetation units. The Thicket vegetation here thus consists of a combination of many of the thicket species that occur within the central portion of the Albany Thicket Biome. Despite having a common denominating content of thicket species, the Groot Thicket units have a unique combination of species and/or have local endemic species present in their mosaic units (Vlok & Euston-Brown 2002). Some of the species present in this unit (e.g. Euphorbia polygona, E. tetragona, Ozoroa mucronata and Plumbago auriculata) indicate a close affinity to more eastern portions of the Albany Valley Thicket.

1.5.2 Subtropical Ecosystem Planning (STEP) Subtropical Ecosystem Planning identifies Bethelsdorp Bontveld along the drier north facing slopes, Algoa Grassy Fynbos in the area north of the Baakens River and a band of Colchester Strandveld in the east towards the coast.

1.5.3 Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP)

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

As indicated in Figure 8, the Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP, 2007) the site is situated within area designated as Critical Biodiversity Area (terrestrial).

As indicated in Figure 9, the Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP, 2007) the site is situated within an area designated as Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Area 2 (A2a). These are important sub-catchments which impact on the downstream estuary and, as is the case of the lower Baakens River, are important for fish migration.

IMPLICATIONS: Due to the limited size and overall impact of the proposed activity, as well as its location within an urban area and development being focused only within severely degraded and transformed areas, the effect on Critical Biodiversity Areas at a regional (Provincial) level will be low.

1.5.4 Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan

The Nelson Mandela Bay Bioregional Plan () identifies Baakens Forest Thicket Mosaic and Baakens Grassy Fynbos. Subsequent to this, Grobler (2012) has also identified Baakens Bontveld (along drier north-facing slopes).

Baakens Thicket Forest Mosaic (Critically Endangered) Forest, mostly short (<6 m tall), within a matrix of Sundays Valley Thicket. Milkwood (Sideroxylon inerme), gwarrie (Euclea undulata), Grewia occidentalis, Olea exasperate, Hippobromus sp., Azima tetracantha, Acokanthera sp., Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus, Brachylaena discolor, Colpoon compressum, and Aloe pluridens dominant. Present on quartzitic sandstone. Large trees include Hippobromus pauciflorus, Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. aethiopicum, Olea europaea subsp. africana, Olinia ventosa and Tarchonanthus camphoratus These elements are found in fire protected and wetter areas, including the drainage line running down the north-facing slope, erven 1536 - 1542, 1515 & 1516 and in patches along the Baakens River including erf 96 and within Settlers Park to the west.

Baakens Grassy Fynbos Passerina rigida, Aspalathus teres, Metalasia aurea, Pelargonium longifolium, Helichrysum sp., various grasses and restios are dominant. Montinia caryophyllacea, Boscia oleoides, Hermania salviiflora, Berkheya angustifolia, Aspalathus biflora, Cyanella lutea and Senecio pinifolius are common. Present on quartzitic sandstone in moderate moisture conditions. These elements are found in areas that have not been heavily disturbed, including a portion on erven 144 & 145 in the vicinity of the memorial walk,

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Baakens Bontveld (~ Bethelsdorp Bontveld) Grobler (2012) identifies and additional vegetation unit within the study area, namely Baakens Bontveld, which predominantly occurred along the dry, north-facing slopes and along rocky ridges of the Baakens River Valley. This is a mosaic vegetation type consisting of small thicket clumps within a matrix vegetation containing elements of various affinities. Within the study area, along the north-facing slopes (above Upper Valley Road), this is a grassland mozaic including Eragrostis curvula, Stipagrostis zeyheri, Cymbopogon marginatus and Ehrharta calycina with herbs and shrubs such as Aizoon rigidum, Eriocephalus africanus, Hermannia velutina, Phylica gnidioides, Ruschia orientalis and succulents including Aloe striata subsp. striata, Corpuscularia lehmannii, Crassula perfoliata subsp. minor, Crassula rubricaulis, Crassula tetragona, Senecio talinoides subsp. aizoides, Aloe ferox and Sarcostemma viminale subsp. viminale. Clumps of thicket are present and include multi-stemmed shrubs and small trees such as Rhus lucida, Rhus pallens, Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus and Scutia myrtina. Asparagus racemosus, Asparagus suaveolens, Euclea schimperi, Canthium spinosum, Ochna arborea, Pelargonium peltatum, Pittosporum viridiflorum, Rhus longispina and Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme.

These elements are found in areas that have not been heavily disturbed, including the north-facing slopes along a portion on erven 1699 & 145.

With Reference to Table 2 below, the proposal is in accordance with the guidelines of the NMB Bioregional Plan for areas designated as CBA and the respective measures and actions have been undertaken.

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Table 2: Recommended land use management guidelines in Critical Biodiversity Areas and other categories on the CBA map (NMB Bioregional Plan)

CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS (TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS) INCLUDES: ALL Critically Endangered vegetation types in terms of the NMBM Conservation Plan and Best Design sites of Endangered, Vulnerable & Least Threatened vegetation types, ecological processes and species of special concern that satisfy biodiversity targets COMMENT/ACTION Keep in a NATURAL STATE Biodiversity Friendly Land-Use Types (Land-Use Type 1-4) CBA PATTERN General Recommendations • No further loss of natural habitat should occur i.e. all land in this category should be maintained as natural vegetation cover; • These areas of land can act as possible biodiversity offset receiving areas; • Mimic or maintain natural ecological processes; for example, fire in Fynbos and Dune Thicket vegetation types; • Determine the vegetation type and then consult the Fynbos Forum Ecosystem Guidelines (de • Management Guidelines incorporated into EMPr and Open Space Villiers et al., 2005) for detailed management guidelines; Management Plan. • Priority for DEDEAT, NMBM and DAFF (Agriculture and Forestry Sections) to carry out regular environmental monitoring and reporting, for biodiversity and / or change of Land-use, to prevent unauthorized development or degradation by neglect or ignorance (monitoring guidelines are required); • Prioritise CBAs for land care projects, Working for Water (WfW) and NGOs to direct their conservation projects, programmes and activities; and • An Ecological Management Plan should be compiled by landowner for CBAs. EMP to include alien plant • Ecological (Open Space) Management Plan is included in the EMPr control, fire management etc. and includes alien plant control, fire management, etc. Protection • CBAs under public ownership to be declared in terms of NEM: Protected Areas Act. Privately owned erven • Open Space areas will be zones in accordance with current zoning to be incorporated into the protected area network through Biodiversity Stewardship Agreements. Privately schemes. owned erven to be declared in terms of NEM: Protected Areas Act where landowners are willing to do so. CBAs not formally protected (public or private) should be rezoned to Open Space 31 and title deed restrictions attached where possible. Rates rebates to be provided in return where possible.

1 Open Space 3 in terms of the proposed NMBM Integrated Zoning Scheme refers to the utilisation and management of an area for nature reserve purposes, irrespective of whether the area has been declared in terms of the NEM: Protected Areas Act. Open Space 1 refers to Public Open Space for recreational or cemetery purposes. Open Space 2 refers to Private Open Space for recreational (sports facility), cemetery or telecommunication purposes.

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CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS (TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS) INCLUDES: ALL Critically Endangered vegetation types in terms of the NMBM Conservation Plan and Best Design sites of Endangered, Vulnerable & Least Threatened vegetation types, ecological processes and species of special concern that satisfy biodiversity targets COMMENT/ACTION Keep in a NATURAL STATE Biodiversity Friendly Land-Use Types (Land-Use Type 1-4) CBA PATTERN Fire Management • An appropriate fire management plan for fire dependant ecosystems must be implemented, namely Fynbos • Fire Management Plan included in EMPr and Dune Thicket. Rehabilitation / Restoration • Degraded or disturbed CBAs will require restoration or rehabilitation through programmes such as Working • Rehabilitation Plan for retained Open Space included in EMPr for Water, Working for Wetlands etc. In Urban Areas • Maintain and legally protect the Urban Open Space System that maintains CBAs; and • Compatible land-uses adjacent to and within CBAs & management guidelines could include: • Community projects such as passive recreation for eco-tourism, employment of security officers • Such community projects for passive recreation are within project (visible policing) etc. objectives • Where necessary, provide fencing or locate institutional / educational barriers where high density, high canopy vegetation types create a security risk. Sand Movement (Ecological) Corridors • No development should be allowed in sand movement corridors (littoral active zone), frontal dunes or • No Sand Movement Corridors affected dynamic dune systems; • Mobile dunes must not be stabilized, unless where existing development requires it; • Maintain an indigenous vegetation buffer zone between the inland boundary of the youngest fixed dune trough and the seaward boundary of existing development; and • Strict control should be maintained over the use of off-road vehicles on beaches. Coastal Ecological Corridors • Due to expected sea level rise from climate change, no development should occur within the coastal • No Coastal Corridors affected • CBAs and the NMBM Coastal Development Set-back Lines.

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CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS (TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS) INCLUDES: ALL Critically Endangered vegetation types in terms of the NMBM Conservation Plan and Best Design sites of Endangered, Vulnerable & Least Threatened vegetation types, ecological processes and species of special concern that satisfy biodiversity targets COMMENT/ACTION Keep in a NATURAL STATE Biodiversity Friendly Land-Use Types (Land-Use Type 1-4) CBA PATTERN Development Guidelines Where infrastructure is proposed, the following guidelines should be implemented - • Rezoning of properties to afford additional Land-use rights that will result in increased biodiversity • Biodiversity loss will be negligible due to state of disturbance of loss should not be granted; proposed development footprints. Areas with biodiversity conservation • Permitted number of units per erf or per ha to be based on existing Land-use rights and NMBM potential have been identified. Rural Development and Urban Edge Policy; • Densities will be within permitted municipal land use rights • Developments should be limited to existing developed / degraded footprints, if present and • Development is limited to previously developed and degraded appropriate2; footprints with low potential for restoration or rehabilitation. • Units carefully dispersed or clumped to achieve least impact, particularly with regard to habitat loss • Footprints have been sited to achieve least impact. and fragmentation; • The following minimum buffers are recommended between CBAs and proposed development nodes - o Forest: outside urban edge: minimum of 100 m, urban areas minimum of 30 m; and o Other biomes: minimum of 50 m; • The installation of infrastructure in CBAs is not desirable and should only be considered if all • Basic Assessment is being conducted alternative alignment and design options have been assessed and found to be non-viable. Under such conditions, at least a Basic Assessment (BA) should be undertaken, and if approved, a comprehensive EMP must be developed and best-practice restoration efforts strictly implemented; • Protected Area infrastructure to be limited to existing developed or degraded sites, unless determined otherwise via a Conservation Development Framework planning process for the reserve; • Ecological Specialist to conduct the ecological assessment; • Ecological Specialist conducted ecological assessment • Where the infrastructure is within close proximity to aquatic ecosystems refer to ‘CBA Aquatic Ecosystems’ below to ensure appropriate buffers; • Temporary structures are preferred e.g. raised wooden structures, tents, raised boardwalks or • Will be considered for walkways and such in open space areas alternatively porous materials / design concepts preferred; and • A site-specific Construction and Operational Environmental Management Plan to be compiled and • Construction and Operational EMPr has been compiled implemented.

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2 Existing disturbance should not be viewed as implying that development of such areas is appropriate, particularly due to the potential for restoration or rehabilitation of such sites.

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1.6 Implications of Systematic Planning frameworks

Although the overall site falls within Critically Endangered vegetation types and is considered Critical Biodiversity Area, the proposed development footprints are largely within areas having degraded, transformed and secondary vegetation. Areas having intact original vegetation will not be directly affected. An ecological corridor is likely to be retained outside of the development area, incorporating areas having intact vegetation and steep slopes (greater than 25 %).

With reference to the mapped vegetation and sensitivity map (Figure 17), the goal would be to restrict development to within the low sensitivity (green) degraded/transformed areas and retain the slopes (orange) for ecological process corridor and the remnant portions of intact vegetation (red) in order to address conservation targets. Suitable low impact activities such as biking/hiking trails may be suited to the ecological process areas.

1.7 Systematic Planning Maps

Figure 2: Locality Map Figure 3: Rivers, Estuaries and Wetlands (with 1:50 and 1:100-year floodlines and 100 m Estuarine buffer) Figure 4: Vegetation and Status (Vegmap) Figure 5: STEP Vegetation and Status (STEP) Figure 6: Vegetation and Status (NMB Bioregional Plan) Figure 7: Overall Extent of Vegetation Types (NMB Bioregional Plan) Figure 8: Critical Biodiversity Areas (NMB Bioregional Plan & ECBCP) Figure 9: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas (ECBCP): National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA). Inset: the Baakens River Catchment as a Fish Support Area. Figure 10: Slope Analysis

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Figure 2: Locality Map

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Figure 3: Rivers, Estuaries and Wetlands (with 1:50 and 1:100-year floodlines and 100 m Estuarine buffer)

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Figure 4: Vegetation and Status (Vegmap)

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Figure 5: STEP Vegetation and Status (STEP)

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Figure 6: Vegetation and Status (NMB Bioregional Plan)

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Figure 7: Overall Extent of Vegetation Types (NMB Bioregional Plan)

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Figure 8: Critical Biodiversity Areas (NMB Bioregional Plan & ECBCP)

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Figure 9: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas (ECBCP): National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA). Inset: the Baakens River Catchment as a Fish Support Area.

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Figure 10: Slope Analysis

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2 Description of the Terrestrial Environment 2.1 Site Locality

The site is proposed to be developed for residential housing, which will require complete clearing of the development footprint or site. The site is directly surrounded by undeveloped suburban erven to the south, west and north and by developed erven to the east.

2.2 Historical Context

Historically, before the forced removals of the 1965 period, the area that is now proposed to be developed, was developed as a vibrant community, as depicted in Figure 11 below.

Figure 11: Historical view of lower Valley Road (view of area designated as Site R4 - Erf 1699 South End): Inset (left) - current view. Inset (right) – current remnant of historical buildings.

These historically developed areas can be regarded as having secondary vegetation and due to altered geophysical conditions, the rehabilitation top pre-developed conditions are limited. In addition, there has been historical infill along the Baakens River, including in the historical flood plain. Various layers of infill are evident including rubble, old road layers and are likely have been more recently vegetated for recreational open space. Vegetation in these areas is thus predominantly secondary.

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2.3 Summary of the Terrestrial and Aquatic Environments

The table below provides a description of the on-site natural biophysical features: Feature Implication Topography and drainage The site has a slope less than 20 % towards the Baakens River, The developable footprint will include only areas with a which is potentially developable, becoming steep to the south (> 25 slope less than 25 %. %). Vegetation The majority of the developable portion of the site is degraded and The areas proposed for development include the degraded transformed with secondary vegetation comprised of commonly and transformed secondary vegetation. Areas having occurring grasses and shrubs and invasive tree species. A few areas intact grassy fynbos vegetation have largely been can be considered to have indigenous intact grassy fynbos. excluded from the developable footprint. Indigenous Flora Permits for removal of flora will likely be required, however A few individuals of indigenous species and species of special all species that are present are widespread species within concern were noted to be scattered around the site. the region. Forest No Forest will be directly affected as a result of None present. development of the site. Indigenous and protected trees NFA permits may be required. The origin of these trees is A few scattered Milkwoods are present, but these are in transformed unknown, but they are predominantly in park areas, so it is areas (parks) and have most likely been planted. concluded that they may have been planted. Fauna The vegetation on the site may provide transient habitat for a wide None of concern likely to be affected significantly. Any range of small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The dense transient fauna on the site will most likely migrate to clumps of invasive trees may provide roosting and nesting habitat for surrounding areas during construction. larger bird species. Alien Invasive Species A large variety of alien invasive and weedy species are present An alien management plan for the greater area will need to throughout the site. be considered. Watercourse and Estuarine The Baakens River located along the northern boundary of the proposed development area and a small seasonal drainage line runs Although drainage from the site will flow towards the down the southern hill slope. This drainage line no longer flows Baakens River, is not directly associated with the riparian directly into the Baakens River, as it is diverted into stormwater zone of the river. It is proposed to address two problems infrastructure running under Upper Valley Road. There is tidal along the Baakens River, adjacent to the development (estuarine) influence within the lower Baakens, that is dependent on area – bank stabilisation and removal of a flood damaged a number of factors including tide level and fresh water flow rates, as weir and re-instate riffle beds to improve ecological the mouth of the estuary is partially cut off from the sea by a natural integrity of the river. rocky shelf. Fish Potentially harmful Impacts on the aquatic habitats of the adjacent Baakens River associated with the proposed The aquatic habitats of the lower Baakens have been modified and development should be avoided at all costs. In addition, degraded by man but still support a variety of fish species of existing impacts at the site such as elevated sediment conservation importance. In addition, a number of fish species input due to bank collapse and the presence of man-made undertake natural upstream migrations past the site instream barriers to fish migration, should be mitigated, if possible. Wetlands None present within the site None Estuaries

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Feature Implication Baakens River estuary abuts the site to the north-east None, will not be directly affected.

2.4 Ecological Processes

The intact or semi intact areas, in particular the north facing slopes and along the Baakens River, can be considered to be important ecological process areas and are indicated as such in the Bioregional Plan. The value of the specific areas proposed for the mixed-use components of the development are located in areas that were previously developed and where vegetation and habitat is significantly altered from its original state. These areas can be considered to be secondary degraded and transformed. The intact areas within the study areas, that will add value to the ecological processes and conservation have been identified and excluded from large scale development. Any development in these more sensitive areas will be limited to conservation compatible and recreational uses such as hiking trails and limited impact facilities.

2.5 Flora

Typical intact Baakens Grassy Fynbos is present on quartzitic sandstone in moderate moisture conditions and comprised of species including Passerina rigida, Aspalathus teres, Metalasia aurea, Pelargonium longifolium, Helichrysum sp., Montinia caryophyllacea, Boscia oleoides, Hermania salviifolia, Berkheya angustifolia, Aspalathus biflora, Cyanella lutea and Senecio pinifolius. Erven 96 (within Settlers Park) and 144 (situated on the western side of the study area) contact intact to semi-intact Baakens Grassy Fynbos and Baakens Forest Thicket further downslope. These areas are not being considered for the mixed-use development component, but rather to incorporate them into open space, with limited conservation compatible uses (such as hiking trail), as they are located directly adjacent to Settlers Park.

The areas having intact to semi-intact Baakens Bontveld, which predominantly occurred along the dry, north-facing slopes and along rocky ridges of the Baakens River Valley, will similarly not be developed, as they are within the proposed open space area, excluded from ther proposed mixed use development components od erf 1699 and erf 145.

Aras having elements of Baakens Thicket Forest Mosaic will similarly not be developed and have been excluded. This includes a buffer around the drainage line on erf 1699 and small pocket on erven 92 & 94 on the southern bank of the Baakens River. Erven 1536 - 1542, 1515 & 1516 have a few pockets of thicket and forest-thicket, but there are unlikely to be affected significantly as proposed development in these sites includes predominantly tourism related facilities that will utilise existing disturbed areas and possible be developed within the confines of the foundations of historical buildings that were demolished.

The majority of the area proposed for development is comprised of various grasses and shrubs, with the typical dominant and indicator species being absent. Historically these areas were developed (pre-forced removal period) and the vegetation is secondary and transformed and heavily disturbed comprised of common grasses, occasional shrubs herbs and woody tree species common to the vegetation units in the surrounding area and disturbed areas. A number of remnants of historical buildings including foundations, other structures and rubble are still present. Indigenous species and weeds typical of disturbed areas as well as introduced species typical of gardens are predominantly present in these areas.

2.5.1 Species of Special Concern

Based on a desktop Assessment of existing online databases as well as field verification, the potential list of flora species that may occur near or within the site, is limited. Common flora species that occur in the surrounding area

13 South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report 25 June 2019 include Protea spp, Erica spp, Leucadendron salignum, Leucospermum cuneiforme and Agathosma spp and various Restio spp. Many of these ‘indicator’ species are absent from the site with a few scattered individuals observed.

Red Data Book, Rare, Endangered, Protected Species

• The site does not fall within the distribution range of Algoa Grassy Fynbos endemics including Cyclopia pubescence, Agathosma gonaquensis and Disa cornuta (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). Cyclopia pubescence and Agathosma gonaquensis which are listed as Critically Endangered in the National Red List for South African Plants. None of these species were recorded within the site. • A single species listed as Endangered in the National Red List for South African Plants was recorded at the study site, namely Corpuscularia lehmannii. This species is present in sporadic patches on rocky outcrops along the north facing slope of erven 699 & 145. It was not found within the proposed development footprints and is quite common in erf 145, which has been excluded from the development proposal (other than conservation compatible activities including hiking trails. No other species listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered or Near Threatened in the National Red List for South African Plants were recorded at the study site. • Brunsvigia littoralis, listed as vulnerable in the interim National Red List for South African Plants (2009) was also NOT recorded at the site. • No flora species listed under Threatened and Protected Species (T.o.P.S.) were noted to be present during the site assessment.

Permits from the relevant authority (Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism) are required for the removal, translocation or destruction of all plants listed as protected; and all faunal species, in terms of the Provincial Nature and Conservation Ordinance (No. 19 of 1974) and an ongoing search and rescue to be undertaken during development of the site.

Table 2 provides a detailed list of species protected in term of the P.N.C.O., for which permits will be required should they occur and require removal. No protected trees were noted within the site. Due to limited sampling time, presence or absence of all species cannot be confirmed without detailed seasonal site visits, but the risk of any Critically Endangered or Endangered species being present is Low.

Table 3: Flora Species of Special Concern known to occur in the vicinity of the site Botanical Name Family Status* Pres** Comment Outside of development footprints. Succulent species Aloe africana ASPHODELACEAE PNCO Yes highly emendable to relocation. Outside of development footprints. Succulent species Aloe ferox ASPHODELACEAE PNCO Yes highly emendable to relocation. Outside of development End, PNCO, footprints. Succulent species Corpuscularia lehmannii MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Yes NEMBA highly emendable to relocation. Predominantly outside of Sideroxylon inerme SAPOTACEAE NFA Yes affected areas * PNCO – Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance (19 of 1974); NFA – National Forests Act; End – Endemic. * Pres: Presence recorded on site or in immediate vicinity

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2.5.2 Alien Invasive species and Declared Weeds

Invasive alien plants have a significant negative impact on the environment by causing direct habitat destruction, increasing the risk and intensity of wildfires, and reducing surface and sub-surface water. Landowners are under legal obligation to control alien plants occurring on their properties. Alien Invasive Plants require removal according to the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983 (CARA) and the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004; NEMBA): Alien and Invasive Species Lists (GN R598 and GN R599 of 2014). Alien control programs are long-term management projects and a clearing plan, which includes follow up actions for rehabilitation of the cleared area, is essential. This will save time, money and significant effort. Collective management and planning with neighbours allows for more cost-effective clearing and maintenance considering aliens seeds as easily dispersed across boundaries by wind or water courses. All clearing actions should be monitored and documented to keep track of which areas are due for follow-up clearing. A general rule of thumb is to first target lightly infested areas before tackling densely invaded areas, and prioritize sensitive areas such as river banks and wetlands. Alien grasses are among the worst invaders in lowland ecosystems adjacent to farms, but are often the most difficult to detect and control.

A list of species and their respective NEMBA status occurring within the site is provided in Table 4.

Table 4: Alien Invasive plants and common weeds present and respective NEMBA classifications.

Botanical Name Common name Family Status Extent

Agave sisalana Sisal Agavaceae NEMBA 2 Isolated individuals

Acacia mearnsii Black Wattle Fabaceae NEMBA 2 Scattered clumps

Acacia saligna Port jackson Willow Fabaceae NEMBA 2 Scattered individuals

Cestrum laevigatum Ink Berry Solanaceae NEMBA 1b Isolated individuals

Datura stramonium Thorn Apple Solanaceae NEMBA 1b Scattered individuals/clumps Scattered individuals and clusters Eucalyptus diversicolor Gum tree Myrtaceae NEMBA 2 (large trees) Lantana camara Lantana Verbenaceae NEMBA 1b Scattered individuals/clumps

Nicotiana glauca Wild Tobacco Solanaceae NEMBA 1b Isolated individuals NEMBA 1b Scattered clumps usually associated Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu grass Poaceae (wetlands) with dumping and/or leaking pipes Pinus sp. Pine Pinaceae NEMBA 2 Isolated individual trees

Ricinus communis Cast Oil Plant Euphorbiaceae NEMBA 2 Scattered individuals

Various other species not considered to be alien invasive species but rather ‘garden escapees’ are present.

NEMBA: Alien and Invasive Species as per National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004; NEMBA): Draft Alien and Invasive Species Lists (GN R598 and GN R599 of 2014

(category 1, 2 or 3)

Eradication protocol Specific eradication and management procedures must be stipulated in the EMP as to the methods to be implemented to remove and control the various alien invasive species as they tend to require species specific techniques. A comprehensive management plan should be incorporated into the EMP and a detailed action plan compiled and implemented by the ECO. All removed trees must either be removed from site or disposed of at a registered waste disposal facility. Alternatively, the plant material can be mulched using a wood chipper on site. And seed-bearing material is to be disposed of at a waste disposal facility. Refer to Exotic Vegetation Management Plan in EMP.

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2.6 Fauna

The site under assessment lies within an area that is comprised of a mix of heavily invaded and secondary vegetation and is likely habitat for a number of transient faunal species including small mammals, reptiles and birds,. Further the piles of rubble from illegal dumping may be home to reptiles. The site is separated from the nearby Baakens River ecological corridor to the north by various roads and developed erven. This is likely to influence the faunal species that do occur to some extent.

Small mammal species that have been recorded on the site include Cape Grysbok (Nototragus melanotis), grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola), Vervet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops) and the Cape clawless otter (Aonyx capensis). The WPCSSA (1965) report noted that a large variety of shrew species were present in the area. The occurrence of 131 bird species has also been recorded in the Baakens River Valley, of which 79 species (60%) are known to breed in the Valley. This richness in bird species is largely due to the wide variety of habitats present in the Valley. Species as diverse as the clapper lark (Mirafra apiata) and the Knysna Loerie (Tauraca corythaix) thus occur in the same area, but in different vegetation zones. Water birds are not well represented in the area due to the lack of large, open pools. However, the riverine habitat of the Baakens River Valley is suitable for the African black duck (Anas sparsa).

In addition to the mammal and bird species mentioned above, the Baakens River Valley also provides habitats for 26 reptile species and seven frog species (WPCSSA 1965).

It is not likely that the proposed development will have any significant impact on faunal species. Most of the mobile fauna are expected to vacate the area that is to be developed once vegetation clearing and other site preparation activities commence and will seek refuge in intact natural or near-natural surrounding areas. However, as a cautious measure, the following should be implemented: • Measures should be implemented to ensure that fauna on site are not harmed during site preparation or operational phase activities associated with the development, e.g. environmental induction process for construction personnel. • It is recommended that a professional reptile handler (with the necessary permits) undertake a search and rescue, in particular of the rubble dumps on site to remove snakes that might be present. Removal of animals from the affected areas before the start of site clearing and relocating these to safe areas would only be a valid mitigation option in the case of tortoises. This will additionally serve to reduce the risk of any snake bite incidents to workers during site preparation. • All other reptile and small mammal species are extremely difficult to catch and it would be a futile attempt to try and relocate them. Before doing site clearing, affected areas should be thoroughly searched for tortoises. Tortoises found must be released in the no-go areas. • Search and rescue operations undertaken before and during the site preparation phase will decrease the impacts considerably.

Permits from the relevant authority (Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism) are required for the removal, translocation or destruction of protected faunal species, in terms of the Provincial Nature and Environment Conservation Ordinance (No. 19 of 1974).

3 Description of the Aquatic Environment

Site is within Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Area 2 (A2a)

3.1 Aquatic Environment

River systems in South Africa are vital ecosystems for a large variety of freshwater fishes, many of which are threatened or endangered (Skelton 1993). Unfortunately, biodiversity is being lost faster than it is possible to census in South Africa. Rivers are subject to a wide variety of anthropogenic threats such as freshwater abstraction, catchment Land- use changes, barriers to migration and alien species introduction (Wasserman et al. 2011). Some marine species utilize

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rivers for feeding and refuge. These are either obligate catadromous species or facultative catadromous species. Catadromy refers to the migration of marine spawned fishes into rivers. A life-history strategy such as catadromy has evolved so that fish species may take advantage of river environments rich in prey, often larval stages of insects, coupled with a plethora of refuge habitats with few competitors and predators. As discussed below, there are a number of both obligate and facultative catadromous fish species in the Baakens River that migrate as juveniles from the sea into the river reach adjacent to the study area and also further upstream for feeding purposes.

As indicated in Figure 3 and Figure 9, the National Estuarine map indicates that the estuary extends above Bridge Street bridge approximately to the R2 development area. The canalisation and historical development of the area has however significantly altered the estuarine functional zone footprint and it is no longer covering the extent to which it is indicated along the banks, which have been modified.

Presently there are a number of water quality issues within the study area system. These are mostly associated with bacteriological issues, related to the occasional leaks from sewer lines. Sewage, which contains high levels of nutrients and bacteria, usually results in fish kills within the rivers, as the bacteria rapidly depletes all the oxygen in the water column, thus suffocating any fish. The high bacteria levels also result in algal blooms and further decrease the Dissolved Oxygen levels, while blocking available sunlight within the water, which is required by other aquatic plants for survival.

3.2 Riparian Vegetation

The National Water Act defines a riparian habitat as follows: “Riparian habitat includes the physical structure and associated vegetation of the areas associated with a watercourse which are commonly characterised by alluvial soils, and which are inundated or flooded to an extent and with a frequency sufficient to support vegetation of species with a composition and physical structure distinct from those of adjacent land areas.”

Figure 12: Typical cross section of a river channel.

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Riparian habitats, also known as riparian areas, include plant communities adjacent to and affected by surface and subsurface hydrologic features, such as rivers, streams, lakes, or drainage ways (see Figure 12). These areas may be a few metres wide near streams or more than a kilometre in floodplains. Both perennial and non-perennial streams support riparian vegetation. Because riparian areas represent the interface between aquatic and upland ecosystems, the vegetation in the riparian area may have characteristics of both aquatic and upland habitats. Many of the plants in the riparian area require plenty of water and are adapted to shallow water table conditions. Due to water availability and rich alluvial soils, riparian areas are usually very productive. Tree growth rate is high and the vegetation under the trees is usually lush and includes a wide variety of shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers. Riparian areas: • are associated with a watercourse; • contain distinctively different plant species than adjacent areas; and contain species similar to adjacent areas but exhibiting more vigorous or robust growth forms; and • may have alluvial soils.

Riparian areas perform a variety of functions that are of value to society, especially the protection and enhancement of water resources, and provision of habitat for plant and animal species. Riparian areas: • store water and help reduce floods; • stabilize stream banks; • improve water quality by trapping sediment and nutrients; • maintain natural water temperature for aquatic species; • provide shelter and food for birds and other animals; • provide corridors for movement and migration of different species; • act as a buffer between aquatic ecosystems and adjacent land uses; • can be used as recreational sites; and • provide material for building, muti, crafts and curios. Not all riparian areas develop the same way and may not perform these functions to the same extent. It is important that a riparian area’s capacity to provide the benefits listed is not reduced. Many of these areas are best managed as natural areas, rather than being converted to other uses.

3.2.1 Riparian area indicators

It is possible to delineate riparian areas by checking for the presence of these indicators. Some areas may display both wetland and riparian indicators, and can accordingly be classified as both. If you are adjacent to a watercourse, it is important to check for the presence of the riparian indicators described below, in addition to checking for wetland indicators, to detect riparian areas that do not qualify as wetlands. The delineation process requires that the following be taken into account: • topography associated with the watercourse; • vegetation; and • alluvial soils and deposited material.

3.2.2 Topography associated with the watercourse

A good rough indicator of the outer edge of the riparian areas is the edge of the macro channel bank. This is defined as the outer bank of a compound channel (see Figure 13), and should not be confused with the active river or stream channel bank. Flood benches may exist between the active channel and the macro channel bank, and are often covered by alluvial deposits and may have riparian vegetation on them. The macro channel bank often represents a

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dramatic change in the frequency, duration and depth of flooding experienced, leading to a corresponding change in vegetation structure and composition.

• High Terrace (rarely inundated): relict flood plains which have been raised above the level regularly inundated by flooding due to lowering of the river channel. • Macro Channel Bank: the outer bank of a compound channel. Flood benches between active and macro channel banks are usually vegetated. • Terrace (infrequently inundated): area raised above the level regularly inundated by flooding. • Flood Bench (inundated by annual flood): area between active and macro channel, usually vegetated. • Active Channel Bank: the bank of the channel(s) that has been inundated at sufficiently regular intervals to maintain channel form and to keep the channel free of established terrestrial vegetation. • Bar: accumulations of sediment associated with the channel margins or bars forming in meandering rivers where erosion is occurring on the opposite bank to the bar. • Mid-Channel Bar: single bar(s) formed within the middle of the channel; flow on both sides. • Flood Plain (inundated by annual flood): a relatively level alluvial (sand or gravel) area lying adjacent to the river channel, which has been constructed by the present river in its existing regime. Distinction should be made between active flood plains and relic flood plains.

Figure 13: Typical cross section of a river channel indicating channel morphology (Resource Directed Measures for Protection of Water Resources: River Ecosystems).

3.2.3 Vegetation

Unlike the delineation of wetland areas, where hydromorphic soils are the primary indicator, the delineation of riparian areas relies primarily on vegetative indicators. Using vegetation, the outer boundary of a riparian area must be adjacent to a watercourse and can be defined as the zone where a distinctive change occurs: • in species composition relative to the adjacent terrestrial area; and • in the physical structure, such as vigour or robustness of growth forms of species similar to that of adjacent terrestrial areas. Growth form refers to the health, compactness, crowding, size, structure and/or numbers of individual plants.

These differences between riparian and terrestrial vegetation are primarily a result of more water being available to species growing adjacent to watercourses than to those growing further away. It is therefore not necessary to identify species in order to delineate the riparian boundary. All that is needed is to compare relative changes in species

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composition and growth forms. Where an area has been transformed, or in the absence of natural vegetation, alluvial soils and deposited material will serve as the primary indicators.

3.2.4 Alluvial soils and deposited material

Alluvial soils can be defined as relatively recent deposits of sand, mud, etc. set down by flowing water, especially in the valleys of large rivers. Riparian areas often, but not always, have alluvial soils. Whilst the presence of alluvial soils cannot always be used as a primary indicator to accurately delineate riparian areas, it can be used to confirm the topographical and vegetative indicators.

Deposited material can also be used to delineate the areas where bank stabilisation, provided by the roots of riparian vegetation, is most important. This material may be deposited adjacent to the macro channel bank during flooding, and can include vegetation debris as well as soil deposits.

3.2.5 Baakens River Riparian Vegetation Description

Riparian Vegetation is broadly defined within three zones, Upper Middle and Lower zones, as illustrated in the figures below.

Lower Zone A well-defined Active Channel is present, although highly modified and canalised due to historical infill and development of what would have been the original saltmarsh and floodplain., The lower zone generally has a good cover of typical indigenous riparian vegetation includes well developed clumps of Cyperus textilis, Cyperus sp. and Typha capensis. Narrow reedbeds with Phragmites australis are line the edge of the stream. The giant or Spanish reed (Arundo donax) is present, although generally occurring in the middle zone and not as prevalent as the indigenous and less robust Phragmites australis.

Middle Zone In general, the middle zone is noted to be predominantly covered with a variety of weeds including grasses, herbs shrubs and occasional trees. Typical middle zone riparian vegetation is largely absent. Reedbeds with Arundo donax are present in patches. Weeds include Castor Oil, Inkberry, Acacia saligna, Acacia longifolia, Syringa sp., Canna sp.

Upper Zone In general, the upper zone along the Baakens River within the study area has been transformed and landscaped through historical infill and development. Below the Bridge Street bridge, the upper zone is comprised of gabion baskets

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along the canalised stream with infill to create a mowed grass bench. Above the Bridge Street bridge, the upper zone has been modified through infill to create a grass bench. Occasional trees are noted, although generally not local indigenous species.

3.3 Fish

The Baakens River is a unique ecosystem wedged in the centre of the City of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The river received conservation status as a result of viable populations of the endangered Eastern Cape Redfin Minnow (Pseudobarbus afer), along with other threatened species such as Cape Kurper (Sandelia capensis) and Goldie barb (Barbus pallidus) (Bok 1994). As indicated in Figure 9, the Baakens River is considered to be an important Threatened, Endangered and Critically Endangered Fish Sanctuary.

The current fish community in the Baakens River is represented by species of marine, estuarine and river origin both of native and non-native origins. An annotated list of fish species as recorded in the most recent survey undertaken by Strydom (2014) is give in Annexure B. Major changes have taken place in the fish community since the 1990s. The area spanning the original estuary, which extends from the PE Harbour to the Bridge Street Brewery, is still an important nursery area for juvenile marine fishes, particularly the catadromous River mullet, Myxus capensis, Flathead mullet, Mugil cephalus, and Cape moony, Monodactylus falciformis. These species naturally penetrate farther upstream to take advantage of the rich food resources in the form of aquatic insect larvae, on which they are known to feed (Strydom et al. 2014). The obligatory catadromous Longfin eel, Anguilla mossambica was also recorded in the recent study (Strydom 2014). All these catadromous species spawn their eggs in the sea and then the larvae and juveniles migrate through estuaries and into rivers.

Surprisingly, very rare fishes were found in the lower river during the 2014 survey by Strydom (2014) These species currently inhabit the transitional waters at the lower extent of the river within or near the freshwater-estuarine interface. These included the Gobiidae, Awaous aeneofuscus and Stenogobius polyzona and the Eleotridae, Eleotris fusca. Stenogobius polyzona is under investigation as potentially a new species in South Africa.

The most recent fish survey (Strydom 2014) confirmed the presence of the three threatened indigenous primary freshwater fish species in the lower Baakens River (i.e. excluding the catadromous fish species) namely Eastern Cape Redfin, Pseudobarbus afer, goldie barb Barbus pallidus and Eastern Cape rocky, Sandelia capensis. The latter two species were found in the river reach adjacent to and downstream of the project site and would thus be vulnerable to any impacts associated with the proposed development.

Due to canalisation of the upper portion of the estuary, most larvae and juveniles of catadromous species do not make it upstream as they have no shallow refuge areas and are eaten by predators. Thus, there is a desperate need to rehabilitate the river mouth and to increase river surface area and shallow refuge areas for the juvenile fish.

Further barriers occur in the lower reaches due to the many causeways and weirs built in Settler’s park, making movement upstream very difficult or impossible at low flow. The most downstream barrier to fish movement is the 1.5 m high Barnes Quarry Causeway, located some 100 m upstream of the development site, while the next barrier is the 3 m high Holland Dam Wall located about 700 m further upstream (Figure 16). There is an urgent need to either remove these barrier weirs or construct fishways to allow the natural upstream migration of catadromous fish, as well as natural movements of indigenous freshwater fish present in the lower reaches.

An investigation of the necessity for and conceptual design of fishways suitable for the weirs in the Baakens River in Settlers Park was undertaken for the City of Port Elizabeth Parks and Recreation Division by Bok (1997). However, to date the recommendations emanating from the above study have not been implemented. It is proposed that the

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construction of fishways as recommended in the above study could be implemented as a further “biodiversity offset” during the long term development of the Lower Baakens Precinct Project.

3.4 Present Ecological State

This system no longer functions as would other systems also found in the South Eastern Coastal Belt Ecoregion, and this is due to several changes in the catchment hydrology through: • Urbanisation (i.e. increased hard surfaces that have resulted in increased volumes of stormwater runoff) • Canalisation • Reduced tidal input due to downstream bridges and the creation of the port.

Due to the complete transformation of the estuary and the impact of upstream barriers near Settlers Park Nature Reserve, the Biodiversity contribution of this system has been rated as LOW, while the Present Ecological State was rated as Critically modified. Modification have reached a critical level and the system has been modified significantly with a significant loss of natural habitat and biota. In the worst instances the basic ecosystem functions have been destroyed and the changes irreversible. This in turn has reduced the ecosystem services rating to LOW.

In spite of the numerous anthropogenic impacts on the Baakens River System, the instream habitats are still able to support a diversity of aquatic biota, including threatened fish species. A recent desktop study of the present ecological state (PES) of all quaternary catchments in South Africa (DWS 2014) gave the Baakens River a PES category of C This is defined as “moderately modified, where a loss and change of natural habitat and biota have occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged”. Although located within an urban area and seriously modified and degraded in places, the Baakens River still supports important aquatic biodiversity and still has the potential for rehabilitation and the upgrading of its present ecological integrity

Specific recommendations have been made regarding actions that are required within the Baakens River in order to improve its present ecological state and conserve aquatic biodiversity. These are however outside the scope of this project.

3.5 Mitigation and Remediation

A long-term project is planned to improve the aesthetics of the Lower Baakens area and improve the functionality of the river/estuary, with the hope of attracting more people to the valley and promoting sustainable use thereof. It is proposed that improving the current environment to enhance ecosystem resilience and biodiversity persistence will serve to improve ecotourism and use of the inner-city landscape as well as provide an opportunity to rehabilitate the lower Baakens River.

It is important that this proposed South End Precinct project aligns with the longer-term Baakens River plan. In this regard, the project wishes to address two issues along the Baakens River upstream of Bridge Street bridge. These are located adjacent to block R3 and are as follows indicated in Figure 18): 1. Removal of flood damaged structure as indicated. This structure was previously a weir and has been badly damaged. It is proposed to remove this structure and restore the river bed with a riffle bed. It is further proposed that elevated stepping stones can be constructed to allow hiking access through this point to link the Settlers Park Hiking Trail with the proposed hiking trails and the memorial walk situated off of Gladstone Street. 2. Stabilisation of the badly eroding northern bank of the river. One option will be the installation of rock filled gabion basket scour protection, as has been utilised downstream of the bridge on the north bank and would be comprised of gabion baskets fixed into the riverbed, lined with geofabric (to prevent fines washing into river) and then backfilled and grassed. As part of this river bank stabilisation project, it is proposed that natural fishways be

22 South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report 25 June 2019

constructed on the two instream barriers to fish migrations located immediately upstream, as recommended by Bok (1997) and described above in Section 3.2. 3. In addition, the riverine areas adjacent to the proposed South End project will be incorporated into the Alien Vegetation Management Plan.

Figure 14: Location of proposed river remediation (pink Figure 15: Typical example of Gabion structure -weir removal; purple – bank stabilisation)

Figure 16: Location of proposed fishways (Red – 1.5 m high Barnes Quarry Causeway & Orange - 3 m high Holland Dam Wall

Due to the nature of the proposed project, structures could interfere with natural runoff patterns, diverting flows and increasing the velocity of surface water flows. This then has the potential to increase the potential for erosion in the study area, while increasing sedimentation of downstream areas, once flows subside.

During construction of the proposed stabilisation of the Baakens River banks, there will be a temporary disturbance during construction. Once completed, there will be an improvement, as it will remove the ongoing erosion and subsequent sedimentation.

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Bank Erosion to be stabilised

: Flood damaged weir top be removed

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Figure 17: Mapped Vegetation and Sensitivity

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Figure 18: Open Space and Development Plan

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4 Impact Assessment 4.1 Assessment of the significance of the potential impacts 4.1.1 Criteria of assigning significance to potential impacts The following methodology is to be applied in the specialist studies for the assessment of potential impacts. Criteria Explanation Nature of Review the type of effect that a proposed activity will have on the environment and should include “what will be impact affected and how?” Indicate whether the impact will be: Extent • (S) local and limited to the immediate area of development (the site); • (L) limited to within 5 km of the development; or • (R) whether the impact may be realized regionally, nationally or even internationally. Review the lifetime of the impact, as being: • (V) very short term (0 - 1 years), Duration • (S) short term (1 - 5 years), • (M) medium (5 - 15 years), • (L) long term (>15 years but where the impacts will cease after the operation of the site), or • (P) permanent. Establish whether the impact is destructive or innocuous and should be described as either: • (L) low (where no environmental functions and processes are affected) Intensity • (M) medium (where the environment continues to function but in a modified manner) or • (H) high (where environmental functions and processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease). Consider the likelihood of the impact occurring and should be described as: • (I) improbable (low likelihood) Probability • (P) probable (distinct possibility) • (H) highly probable (most likely) or • (D) definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures). Status of the Description as to whether the impact will be positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or neutral. impact Degree of The degree of confidence in the predictions, based on the availability of information and specialist knowledge. This confidence should be assessed as high, medium or low. • (L) Low: Where the impact will not have an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in the project design Significance • (M) Medium: Where it could have an influence on the environment which will require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation; • (H) High: Where it could have a ‘no-go’ implication for the project unless mitigation or re-design is practically achievable. 4.1.2 Significance Rating Duration

Permanent Long term Medium term Short term Very short term High Intensity

National High High High High Medium Regional High High High High Medium

Local High High Medium Medium Medium Extent Site specific Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Intensity

National High High High Medium Medium Regional High High High Medium Medium

Local Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Extent Site specific Medium Medium Medium Medium Low Low Intensity

National Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Regional Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium

Local Medium Medium Medium Medium Low Extent Site specific Medium Medium Medium Low Low Furthermore, the following must be considered:

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1) Impacts should be described both before and after the proposed mitigation and management measures have been implemented. 2) All impacts should be evaluated for both the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the project, where relevant. 3) The impact evaluation should take into consideration the cumulative effects associated with this and other facilities which are either developed or in the process of being developed in the region, if relevant. 4) Management actions: Where negative impacts are identified, specialists must specify practical mitigation objectives (i.e. ways of avoiding or reducing negative impacts). Where no mitigation is feasible, this should be stated and the reasons given. Where positive impacts are identified, management actions to enhance the benefit must also be recommended.

4.2 Identification of potential impacts 4.2.1 Possible impacts on biodiversity during construction and operations Construction and operations can result in a range of negative impacts on terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems if not properly managed. Table 5 describes impacts that may potentially occur in the site (as per DEDEAT guidelines) as well indicating the relevant EMP section. The predicted significance of these are summarised in Table 5, where SB = Significance BEFORE mitigation and SA = Significance AFTER mitigation. No significant ancillary linear infrastructure, such as roads, conveyors, power lines, pipelines and railways, which can impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services are expected other than minor access roads.

4.2.2 Summary of actions, activities, or processes that have sufficiently significant impacts to require mitigation The main impacts as a result of the proposed activity include the following: 1. Permanent or temporary loss of vegetation cover as a result of site clearing: Site clearing before construction will result in the blanket clearing of vegetation within the affected footprint only. 2. Loss of flora species of special concern during pre-construction site clearing activities: Few species of special concern are present within the affected area, which will be destroyed during site preparation. 3. Loss of faunal habits as a result of development: 4. Loss of fauna species of special concern during pre-construction site clearing activities: Activities associated with bush clearing and site subsequent preparation, killing of perceived dangerous fauna, may lead to increased mortalities among faunal species. 5. Susceptibility of post construction disturbed areas to invasion by exotic and alien species. Post construction disturbed areas having no vegetation cover are often susceptible to invasion by weedy and alien species, which can not only become invasive but also prevent natural flora from becoming established. 6. Aquatic habitat: The aquatic habitat could be temporarily impacted as a result of the proposed bank stabilisation and removal of the damaged weir structure. 7. Stormwater runoff: The hardening of surfaces resulting from the proposed development could result in increased runoff into the Baakens River during heavy rainfall 8. Susceptibility of some areas to erosion as a result of construction related disturbances. Removal of vegetation cover and soil disturbance may result in some areas being temporarily susceptible to soil erosion. 9. Disturbances to ecological processes. Activity may result in disturbances to surrounding ecological processes.

4.2.3 Potential cumulative impacts No cumulative impacts are expected because of the development of the site, due to the limited disturbance area.

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Table 5: Summary indicating significance of potential impacts (SB = Significance BEFORE Mitigation; SA = Significance AFTER Mitigation) Impact Comment Extent Duration Intensity Probability SB SA The permanent or temporary loss of vegetation cover as a 1. Indigenous vegetation result of site clearing is likely to be high during construction, Site Long Moderate Definite Low (-ve) Negligible cover loss however the species currently present are common grasses and invasive alien species. 2. Loss of flora species of Loss of species of special concern during pre-construction site Site Long Low Definite Low (-ve) Negligible special concern clearing activities 3. Loss of faunal habitat Activity will result in the loss of habitat for faunal species Site Long Moderate Definite Low (-ve) Negligible (terrestrial) Activities associated with bush clearing and ploughing, killing 4. Loss of faunal species of perceived dangerous fauna, may lead to increased Site Long Low Unlikely Low (-ve) Negligible (terrestrial) mortalities among faunal species Susceptibility of post construction disturbed areas to invasion 5. Alien species invasion Site Long High Probable Mod (-ve) Moderate (+ve) by exotic and alien species The aquatic habitat could be temporarily impacted as a result 6. Aquatic Habitat of the proposed bank stabilisation and removal of the damaged Site Short Low Unlikely Low (-ve) Negligible) weir structure The hardening of surfaces resulting from the proposed 7. Stormwater runoff development could result in increased runoff into the Baakens Site Long Moderate Probable Mod (-ve) Moderate (+ve) River during heavy rainfall Temporary elevation of erosion risk during site could result from preparation. Due to the flat nature of the development area the 8. Erosion Site Short Low Unlikely Low (-ve) Negligible risk of erosion resulting from loss of vegetation cover is minimal. 9. Disturbances to ecological Disturbances to ecological processes may occur as a result of Site Short Low Probable Low (-ve) Negligible processes the development of areas within the CBA. OVERALL Moderate Low

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5 Mitigation and Management The following mitigation measures are recommended: Impact Mitigation Measures • Clearing of vegetation must be limited to the approved development footprint, and the area to be cleared must be demarcated before any clearing and grubbing commences. • No clearing outside of the development footprint will take place, except for construction of the access roads and installation of other services, if necessary and on approval by the ECO and RE. Vegetation • Final siting of footprint should be undertaken in consultation with respective specialists, including a botanist. • Open Space to be incorporated in final plan to include ecological corridors and riparian as described in the report. • Removed topsoil should be used in rehabilitation of transformed areas that are within the open space areas. • Respective permits must be obtained timeously (2 - 3 months) before site clearing commences and a flora search and rescue plan must be implemented beforehand. • Permits from DEDEAT must be kept on site and in the possession of the flora search and rescue team at all times. • A flora search and rescue to be undertaken before any construction commences. This is likely to happen in a phased and ongoing manner as the project progresses. • The flora search and rescue plan must be done in conjunction with the open space Flora rehabilitation plan. • Flora to be directly relocated into designated open space areas as part of the open space rehabilitation plan. • Rescued plants should be replanted into a nearby disturbed area of similar habitat or for open space rehabilitation. • Once flora search and rescue is complete, a certificate of clearance must be issued by the botanist and copies supplied to DEDEAT. • Refer to EMP for more detailed plan. • Clearing of vegetation must be limited to the approved development footprint, and the area to be cleared must be demarcated before any clearing commences • Open Space to be incorporated in final plan to include ecological corridors and Faunal Habitat riparian as described in the report. • Open Space rehabilitation and removal of invasives should commence before site clearing commences. • Respective permits must be obtained timeously (2 - 3 months) before site clearing commences and a fauna search and rescue plan must be implemented beforehand. • Permits from DEDEAT must be kept on site and in the possession of the fauna search and rescue team at all times. Faunal Species • Rescued fauna should be released into a nearby area of similar habitat away from any construction. • Once fauna search and rescue is complete, a certificate of clearance must be issued by the animal handler and copies supplied to DEDEAT • Alien plants must be removed from the site as per NEMBA requirements. • A suitable weed management strategy to be implemented in construction and operation phases to eradicate and control regeneration, in particular spreading into Alien species adjacent areas. Refer to EMP for more detailed plan. • After any clearing is completed, an appropriate cover crop should be planted on all disturbed areas to minimise weed regrowth and any weeds or exotic species regrowth must be removed from disturbed areas timeously. • Appropriate precautions should be taken to prevent silt-laden run-off and sediment Aquatic habitat input into the river channel during construction activities within or near the river.

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Impact Mitigation Measures Strict precautions should be taken during construction to preven hazardous substances (e.g. hydrocarbons from plant and machinery, cement washings, shutter oils, etc.) from seeping into the adjacent river channel Stormwater runoff • Suitable measures must be implemented to manage stormwater. • Suitable measures must be implemented in areas that may be susceptible to erosion, including but not limited to gabions and runoff diversion berms (if necessary). • Areas must be rehabilitated and a suitable cover crop planted once specific phases Erosion of construction is completed. • If site development does not occur soon after preparation of the site, a suitable cover crop to be established as a temporary measure. • Refer to EMP for more detailed stormwater and erosion management plan. • Clearing of vegetation must be limited to the development footprint, and the area to be cleared must be demarcated before any clearing commences. • No clearing outside of development and infrastructure footprints to take place. Open Space to be incorporated in final plan to include ecological corridors and Ecological Processes • riparian as described in the report. Remaining designated Open Space areas to be retained and rehabilitation plan implemented in order to restore ecological functioning. • Refer to EMP for more detailed rehabilitation plan.

5.1 Vegetation and Flora Clearing and Relocation Plan

The following flora relocation plan is recommended: 1. Once the final site development plan has been determined the botanist will be consulted in order to finalise the plant relocation and vegetation clearing plan. 2. Areas to be cleared of vegetation will be clearly demarcated before clearing commences. 3. Flora search and rescue is to be conducted before vegetation clearing takes place. 4. Plants to be rescued should include both Species of Conservation Concern requiring removal for relocation as well as species that would be suitable for use in rehabilitation and that are amenable to transplanting. 5. Faunal search and rescue to also be conducted by a qualified animal handler. 6. Areas should only be stripped of vegetation as and when required and in particular once Species of Conservation Concern (fauna and flora) have been relocated for that area. 7. Once site boundaries are demarcated, the area to be cleared of vegetation will be surveyed by the flora and fauna search and rescue team clearing under the supervision of the botanist and animal handler to identify and remove species suitable for rescue and commence removal of plants. 8. Depending on growth form this material should be appropriately removed from its locality and immediately relocated where it may be required elsewhere or into adjacent areas of similar habitat that will not be disturbed by construction. 9. Small trees and shrubs (<1 m in height), where possible will be rescued and planted temporarily in potting bags for later use. 10. Wherever possible, any seed-bearing material will be collected immediately and stored for later use, particularly species that occur in low numbers or those that will be well-suited for rehabilitation. 11. Protected flora and fauna species will be removed from the site prior to development taking place. A suitable timeframe must be allowed before construction commences (minimum 1 month) to undertake the rescue and relocation operation. Search and Rescue is best undertaken during Spring/early Summer. 12. Should site construction occur in a phased manner, then clearing activities should take place also in a phased manner, ahead of construction work. 13. Rescued plants will be replanted directly into a suitable adjacent area, and will include some non-protected succulent species that will help support the protected species.

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14. Rescued fauna to be removed from site and released in an area of similar habitat away from the site and where no construction is taking place in the vicinity. 15. Succulent species can be temporarily stored for no more than 2 weeks in a suitable area before replanting. The contractor will be responsible for periodic watering of the replanted flora until such time as they become acclimatised and some rain occurs.

5.2 Post Construction Rehabilitation Plan

On completion of construction the following measures must be implemented. • The surface of the processing areas especially if compacted due to hauling and dumping operations shall be scarified to a depth of at least 200 mm and graded to an even surface condition and the previously stored topsoil will be returned to its original depth over the area. • The area shall be fertilised if necessary, to allow vegetation to establish rapidly. The site shall be seeded with suitable grasses and local indigenous seed mix. • Excavations may be used for the dumping of construction wastes. This shall be done in such a way as to aid rehabilitation. • Waste (non-biodegradable refuse) will not be permitted to be deposited in the excavations. • If a reasonable assessment indicates that the re-establishment of vegetation is unacceptably slow, the RE/ECO may require that the soil be analysed and any deleterious effects on the soil arising from the activity, be corrected and the area be seeded with a vegetation seed mix to his or her satisfaction. This must be done in conjunction with the ECO. • Final rehabilitation must comply with the requirements mention in the Rehabilitation Plan.

5.3 Open Space Rehabilitation and Management Plan

The following generic rehabilitation specification guidelines, was prepared by Jamie Pote as part of the Ecological Specialist Assessment. It provides additional guidelines for the implementation of vegetation rehabilitation, including areas disturbed during construction activities. This is a generic guideline and should be used for vegetation clearing and rehabilitation during all phases of construction and operation. Only relevant sections are to be adhered to and irrelevant sections ignore as applicable.

5.3.1 Rehabilitation Objective (a) The overall objective of the rehabilitation plan is to minimize adverse environmental impacts associated with construction activities, whilst maximizing the future utilization of the open space areas. (b) Additional broad rehabilitation strategies/objectives include the following: • Rehabilitating the site to take place concurrently within the prescribed framework as established in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). • All infrastructure, equipment, plants and other items used during the construction period must be removed from the site. • Waste material (of any description); including scrap, rubble and tyres, must be removed entirely from the site and disposed of at a recognised landfill facility. It will not be permitted to be buried or burned on site. • Final rehabilitation must be completed within a specified period. Rehabilitation Plan The overall re-vegetation plan will be as follows: • Ameliorate (improve) the aesthetic impact of the site. • Stabilise disturbed soil. • Minimize surface erosion and consequent siltation of natural water course located on site. • Control wind-blown dust problems.

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• Enhance the physical properties of the soil. • Re-establish nutrient cycling. • Re-establish a stable ecological system. Drainage and Erosion Control To control the drainage and erosion at site the following procedures need to be adopted: • Areas where construction is completed should be rehabilitated immediately. • Existing vegetation will be retained as far as possible to minimize erosion problems. Visual Impact Mitigation The overall visual impact of the proposed quartzitic sandstone quarrying operations will be minimised by the following mitigating measures: • Replacement of topsoil and vegetation in all disturbed areas. • Use of indigenous trees and vegetation in Public Open Space areas. Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement To ensure that topsoil and overburden are not eroded or washed away, they must be keyed into the reprofiled surfaces. The topsoiled surface will be left fairly rough to enhance seedling establishment, reduce water run-off and increase filtration. Good quality topsoil stripped from areas to be developed should not be disposed of but used where possible in the rehabilitation of open space areas, where topsoil and fill material may be required. Monitoring and Reporting (a) Until a closure certificate is obtained; adequate management, maintenance and monitoring will be carried out annually by the applicant, to ensure successful rehabilitation of the property (b) Adopting a progressive rehabilitation programme to minimise adverse environmental impacts that are associated with operations. The programme will entail carrying out the proposed rehabilitation procedures concurrently with quarrying activities. Inspecting and Monitoring • Regular monitoring of all the environmental management measures and components must be carried out to ensure that the provisions of this programme are adhered to. • On-going and regular reporting of the implementation progress of this programme will be done. An environmental audit must be carried out by an independent consultant on an annual/bi-annual basis. • Any change to the mining process needs to be documented during the audit process. Necessary changes need to be recorded to facilitate future mining operations and audit investigations. • Inspections and monitoring must be carried out on both the implementation of the programme and the impact on plant life.

5.4 Exotic Vegetation Management Plan An integrated Exotic and Invasive Plant Management Plan for the remainder of the site should include: • The removal of alien vegetation in a phased manner to be implemented during the construction phase, and dependant on new phases as they come online. • Priority should be given to clearing designated Open Space and areas to be rehabilitated during the early phases of construction to allow them time to recover. • The continued maintenance of the rehabilitated area during the operational phases. • The Alien Management Plan will consist of three phases, each of which will be planned on a year-to-year basis: o Initial control: drastic reduction of the existing population; o Follow-up control: reduction of seedlings, root suckers and coppice growth; o The main aim of maintenance control is to sustain low alien plant numbers/density with low annual costs. At this phase, alien plants must no longer be considered a problem. Monitor the situation two-three times each year (spring, mid-summer and autumn) to avoid alien plant re-infestation, spread and densification, and thereby avoid increased control costs.

Invasive exotic plants and weeds must be eradicated on the property as per Alien Management Plan. Basic principles to be adhered to include:

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• Cleared alien vegetation must not be dumped on adjacent intact vegetation during clearing, but should be temporarily stored in a demarcated area (in consultation with the ECO). • Cleared vegetation must be either removed from site or burned in-situ in the temporary storage area. • Any seed bearing material should be removed from the drainage area to prevent the spread of seed. • Chopped brushwood can be used to stabilise steep areas that may be susceptible to erosion during clearing activities. • Follow-up clearing and maintenance must be maintained for the duration of the construction and operational phase of the development. • The implementation of the alien management and the rehabilitation and landscaping plans must be integrated. • Specific management guidelines must be compiled and implemented to address different alien invasive species, affected habitat and severity of infestation.

5.5 Fire Management Plan

Fire is highly destructive in habitat types that are not adapted to fire; however, it is a key ecological driver in most Grassland and Fynbos vegetation types. In view of this it is important to allow appropriate fires to burn in Grassland and Fynbos areas, in order for the vegetation to persist in the long term. Thicket vegetation is generally not fire prone, however once this vegetation becomes degraded and invaded by alien species, it may ignite and burn causing long term damage to the vegetation. In addition to the above biodiversity/ecological considerations, uncontrolled fires can also lead to damage of infrastructure, property or a loss of lives. In view of the above it is important that fires are limited to appropriate portions of the site, and managed in such a manner that fire risk is reduced in areas prone to fire damage.

The fire risk at the site is expected to be closely related to the fuel load in the area, which creates a potential source of ignition. The management of these factors, in addition to the adequate fire response capability form part of the on-site fire management strategy.

5.5.1 Minimise Fuel Load • Eradicate and control exotic vegetation on the site, and dispose of the felled material in the appropriate fashion. • Keep litter (cleared vegetation) piles on site to a minimum by conducting regular controlled burns of accumulated litter. • Identity and map areas of high fire risk; for example, dense exotic vegetation stands, litter piles, and fuel storage areas. This will help to facilitate easier fire detection. • Maintain adequate fire breaks between open space areas and developed areas. • Periodic controlled burns within the Open Space system will be required to reduce moribund vegetation.

5.6 Baakens River Management Plan 5.6.1 Stormwater and Erosion Management Plan Stormwater Management Plan must be implemented for the site and should include the following: • The installation of stormwater and erosion control infrastructure. • The management of stormwater during construction. • The management and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure after completion of construction and during the operational phases.

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• To ensure that site is not subjected to excessive erosion and capable of drainage runoff with minimum risk of scour, their slopes must be profiled at a maximum 1:3 gradient, or where not possible specific measures implemented to counteract. • Diversion channels must be constructed ahead of the open cuts, and above emplacement areas and stockpiles to intercept clean runoff and divert it around disturbed areas into the natural drainage system downstream of the site. • Rehabilitation is necessary to control erosion and sedimentation of all eroded areas (where works will take place). • Existing vegetation must be retained as far as possible to minimise erosion problems. • It is importation that the rehabilitation of site is planned and completed in such a way that the runoff water will not cause erosion. • Visual inspections must be done on a regular basis with regard to the stability of runoff control structures, erosion and siltation.

5.6.2 Bank Stabilisation and Removal of Weir Structure The potential short-term impacts associated with the above activities are related to deterioration in water quality due to elevated turbidity levels caused by mobilisation of fine sediment and leakage of hydrocarbons from the vehicles and plant used. These impacts can readily be avoided by strict implementation of the standard mitigation measures outlined in the construction environmental management plan and the auditing of detailed method statements drawn up by the contractor, when appointed.

6 Conclusions and Recommendations

Although the overall site falls within Critically Endangered vegetation types and is considered Critical Biodiversity Area, specific portions of this are within areas having significantly degraded, transformed and secondary vegetation with limited ecological functioning and integrity. Areas having intact original vegetation will not be directly affected by the proposed project, outside of compatible activities such as hiking trails and such. An ecological corridor will be retained outside of the development area, incorporating areas having intact vegetation and steep slopes (greater than 25 %) and along the banks of the Baakens River, a portion of which is to be stabilised from erosion and flood damaged structures removed (upstream of the Baakens River bridge). The open space will link to the Settlers Park Nature reserve and the proposed plan recommends a number of features (inclusive of hiking trails) that will provide links for people and residents to interact more effectively with this open space and the Nature Reserve as a whole. The total development footprint (including road) within the four sites (R1 – R4) is 4.77 Ha (51.5 %) and the total proposed open space area within the four sites (R1 – R4) is 4.49 Ha (48.5 %). In addition, within the greater study area an additional 6.89 Ha is proposed for open space (with possible compatible infrastructure for tourism and other activities, such as the hiking trails to be considered in the future). Thus, within the overall study area, the area of municipal land to be available for open space will be 11.4 Ha (70.5 %) and utilised for the proposed development is 4.77 Ha (29.5 %). This excludes the additional Settlers Park erven that are also municipal owned. The breakdown for municipal land within the study area will thus be as follows:

Description Area (Ha) % total area (4 sites) Development Area 4.77 Ha - mixed use 4.64 Ha 29.5 (51.5 %) - provisional roads (access only) 0.13 Ha Open Space (Sites R1 – R4) 5.31 Ha 27.8 (48.5 %) Total (sites R1 – R4) 9.26 Ha 100 % No Development (additional Municipal Land Open Space) 6.89 Ha - Municipal erven 2.64 Ha (42.6 %) - Active Open Space (Parks) 0.61 Ha - Open Space along Baakens River 3.64 Ha Total Area (Municipal Land) 16.15 Ha

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With the successful implementation of the Environmental Management Plan, inclusive of the Vegetation and Flora Clearing and Relocation Plan, Open Space Rehabilitation and Management Plan, Exotic Vegetation Management Plan and Stormwater and Erosion Management Plan it is clear that the retained open space areas will be significantly enhanced, while the portions that are currently degraded and have limited ecological value (that were previously residential areas) can be developed in a manner that will serve to address social (housing) and economic needs. No noteworthy or conservation worthy vegetation or species are present within the proposed development footprints, which can be regarded as being severely degraded and secondary in nature.

The clearing of vegetation from the site to for the proposed development will result in the localised loss of vegetation cover as well as the potential destruction of a few individuals of commonly occurring and widespread species of special concern, within the affected area. These species are amendable to a relocation procedure, and relocation onto the generally species poor open space area will improve ecological integrity. The impacts will be confined to the site, having a limited area. In addition, any other species that are present have widespread distributions, and any losses are unlikely to result in any significant impacts to populations.

These impacts of the proposed development to terrestrial vegetation and flora are likely to be of low to moderate significance with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, due to the degraded nature of the site. Impacts noted in this assessment report are likely to have negligible residual impacts if mitigation measures are implemented. Overall if the Environmental Management Plan is implemented and associated plans is implemented successfully, the ecological integrity and functioning of the open space areas can be improved and enhanced (i.e. the species diversity, biodiversity patterns and processes and ecological functioning can be rehabilitated towards historical levels). Furthermore, it will provide opportunity to develop links and features that will allow for more interaction with the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay as a whole.

The areas that will be impacted are however not considered to be intact natural vegetation but degraded and secondary in nature. This is in line with the Bioregional Plan guidelines. The proposal generally confines development to within the low sensitivity (degraded/transformed) areas and retains the riparian vegetation and portions of intact vegetation (no-god) in order to address conservation targets as well as retain the slopes and other areas as ecological process corridors. Suitable low impact compatible activities such as biking/hiking trails will be suited to the retained open space and ecological area and along the Baakens River to connect to Settlers Park and provide opportunities for residents to intact with both the historical and the ecological environment.

In conclusion, the impact of the proposed mixed use development will result in a reduction of 31.5 % of degraded and low ecological value Critical Biodiversity Area, as per the Spatial Development Framework and Bioregional Plan. It will however retain 68.5 % of the available ecologically more valuable Critical Biodiversity Area. Since the management of this open space area will be a conditional requirement to undertake the development and a specific plan has been proposed as to what must be done, this can be regarded as an overall positive impact. The funding for the proposed development components will thus utilise the least valuable ecological portions, but will serve to fund the management of the designated open space areas. This must be a condition of any agreements put in place, as the municipality has a mandated responsibility (as per the NMB Bioregional Plan) for preserving and protecting and maintaining the open space areas. Specific timeframes (in parallel with the development phases) must be a specific condition of the proposal to compensate for the loss of designated critical biodiversity area. Settlers Park is currently 131 Ha and the additional 11.6 Ha will contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation as long as the plan sees fruition.

It is critical that there is municipal interdepartmental co-operation regarding implementation of the project and furthermore it is critical that economic activities that are developed MUST create opportunities and contribute towards this open space management, which can be regarded as an asset in terms of the overall vision and objective of the proposed South End Precinct revitalisation plan.

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7 References

1. Acocks, J. P. H. 1988. Veld Types of South Africa. Memoirs of the Botanical Survey of South Africa, No 57. Botanical Research Institute, Department of Agriculture and Water Supply, South Africa. 2. Batten, H., and Bokelmann, H. 2001. Eastern Cape: South African Wild Flower Guide 11. The Botanical Society of South Africa. pp 306. 3. Berliner D. & Desmet P. 2007. Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan: Technical Report. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry Project No 2005-012, Pretoria. 1 August 2007 4. Bok, A.H. 1994. Report on a Fish Survey of the Baakens River: December 1994. Eastern Cape Nature Conservation, Port Elizabeth. 5. Bok, A.H. 1997. Necessity for and conceptual design of fishways in the Baakens River, Settlers Park. Anton Bok and Associates, Aquatic Environmental Consultants Port Elizabeth. Report for The Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Port Elizabeth. 6. Bourquin, O. 1987. The recent geographical range extension of Hemidactylus mabouia mabouia. Lammergeyer 38: 12-14. 7. Branch, W. R. and H. Braack, 1987. The reptiles and amphibians of the Addo Elephant National Park. Koedoe 30: 61 112. 8. Branch, W.R. (ed.) 1988. South African Red Data Book - Reptiles and Amphibians. South African National Science Programme Report 151: i-iv, 242p. 9. Branch, W.R., 1998a. Field Guide to the Snakes and other Reptiles of Southern Africa. Rev ed. Struiks Publ., Cape Town, 399 pp, num. maps, 112 col. pls. 10. Bromilow, C. 2001. Problem Plants of South Africa. A Guide to the Identification and Control of More than 300 Invasive Plants and Other Weeds. Briza Publications. pp 258 11. Bruton, M. N., and Gess, F. W. 1988. Towards and Environmental Plan for the Eastern Cape. Conference proceedings from Rhodes University. Grocott and Sherry, Grahamstown. 12. Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) (2014). A Desktop Assessment of the Present Ecological State, Ecological Importance and Ecological Sensitivity per Sub Quaternary Reaches for Secondary Catchments in South Africa. Secondary: M2 Compiled by RQIS-RDM. 13. De Villiers C.C., Driver A., Clark B., Euston-Brown D.I.W., Day E.G., Job N., Helme N.A., Holmes P.M., Brownlie S. and Rebelo A.B. 2005. Fynbos Forum Ecosystem Guidelines for Environmental Assessment in the Western Cape. Fynbos Forum and Botanical Society of South Africa, Kirstenbosch, 94p. 14. Friedmann, Y. and Daly, B. (eds.) 2004. Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A Conservation Assessment. CBSG Southern Africa, Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (SSG/IUCN), Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa. 722p. 15. Fuggle, R. F. and Rabie, M. A. 2003. Environmental Management in South Africa. Juta & Co, Johannesburg. 16. Gledhill, E. 1981. Veldblomme van Oos-Kaapland. The Department of Nature and Environmental Conservation of the Cape Province Administration. Galvin and Sales, Cape Town. 17. Golding, J. (Ed.) 2002. Southern African Plant Red Data Lists. Southern African Botanical Diversity Network Report No 14. 18. Henderson, L. 2001. Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No 12. Agricultural Research Council. pp 300. 19. Henning, G.A., Terblanche, R.F. and Ball, J.B (eds) 2009. South African Red Data Book: Butterflies. SANBI Biodiversity Series 13. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria. 20. Hilton-Taylor, C. 1996. Red Data List of Southern African Plants. National Botanical Institute.. 21. Köpke, D. 1988. The Climate of the Eastern Cape. In: Bruton, M. N., and Gess, F. W. (Eds). Towards and Environmental Plan for the Eastern Cape. Conference proceedings from Rhodes University. Grocott and Sherry, Grahamstown. 22. Low, A. B., and Rebelo, A. 1988. Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. A Companion to the Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

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23. Minter, L.R., Burger, M., Harrison, J.A., Braack, H.H., Bishop, P.J & Kloepfer, D. (eds.) 2004. Atlas and Red Data Book of the Frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland, SI/MAB Series 9. Smithsonian Institute, Washington D.C., 360p. 24. Pienaar, K. 2000. The South African What Flower is That? Struik Publishers (Pty) Ltd. Cape Town. 25. Pierce, S. M. 2003. The STEP Handbook. Integrating the natural environment into land use decisions at the municipal level: towards sustainable development. Terrestrial Ecological Research Unit Report No 47. University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. 26. Pierce SM and Mader AD. 2006. The STEP Handbook. Integrating the natural environment into land use decisions at the municipal level: towards sustainable development. Centre for African Conservation Ecology (ACE). Report Number 47 (Second Edition). Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa. 27. Rouget, M., Reyers, B., Jonas, Z., Desmet, P., Driver, A., Maze, K., Egoh, B. & Cowling, R.M. 2004. South African National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004: Technical Report. Volume 1: Terrestrial Component. Pretoria: South African National Biodiversity Institute. Skead, C.J. 2007. Historical incidence of the larger land mammals in the broader Eastern Cape. 2nd ed. (eds. Boshoff, A.F., Kerley, G.I.H. and Lloyd, P.H.), Port Elizabeth, Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 570 p. 28. Sherman, Colloty & Associates. 2017. Proposed Baakens River Pedestrian Bridge. Draft Aquatic Impact Assessment. 29. Strydom, N.A. 2017. Status of Fishes in the Baakens River, Port Elizabeth, with Notes on Rehabilitation. Report to CEN Integrated Environmental Management. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. 30. Soil Classification Working Group (SCWG), 1991. Soil Classification, A Taxonomic System for South Africa. Memoirs on the Agricultural Natural Resources of South Africa, No 15. Department of Agricultural Development, Pretoria. 31. Stirton, C. H. 1987. Plant Invaders : Beautiful, but Dangerous. The Department of Nature and Environmental Conservation of the Cape Province Administration. Galvin and Sales, Cape Town. 32. Vlok, J, H, J., Euston-Brown, D.I.W. 2002. The patterns within, and the ecological processes that sustain, the subtropical thicket vegetation in the planning domain for the Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Planning (STEP) project. TERU Report 40. University of Port Elizabeth. 33. Weather Bureau. 1988. Climate of South Africa - Climate statistics up to 1984 (WB40). Government Printer, Pretoria. 34. Swartz, E. R 2008. Amanzi Country Estate Development – Specialist Study: Genetic status of populations of Sandelia capensis and Barbus pallidus in the Coega River System. Unpublished report prepared for Public Process Consultants 11 pp.

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8 Appendix A: Photographic Record

GENERAL SITE PHOTOS

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UPPER BAAKENS RIVER (R2 DEVELOPMENT AREA)

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LOWER BAAKENS RIVER (RIVER PARK AREA)

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BANK EROSION REMEDIATION AND AND FLOOD DAMAGED WEIR

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9 Appendix B: Flora and Fauna species

FLORA

Botanical Name Family Status** Pres/Abs Growth Form

Acacia karroo FABACEAE Herbs Adromischus cristatus var. CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs schonlandii Agathosma gonaquensis RUTACEAE End, PNCO Low Shrubs Agathosma hirta RUTACEAE PNCO Low Shrubs Agathosma ovata RUTACEAE PNCO Low Shrubs Aizoon glinoides AIZOACEAE Tall Shrubs Albuca cremnophila HYACINTHACEAE End Succulent Herbs Aloe africana ASPHODELACEAE PNCO Succulent Tree Aloe ferox ASPHODELACEAE Low Shrubs Aloe pictifolia ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Geophytic Herbs Andropogon eucomus POACEAE Graminoids Aptosimum elongatum SCROPHULARIACEAE Low Shrubs Aristida adscensionis POACEAE Graminoids Aristida congesta POACEAE Graminoids Asparagus burchellii ASPARAGACEAE Woody Climbers Asparagus mucronatus ASPARAGACEAE Succulent Trees Asparagus racemosus ASPARAGACEAE Herbs Asparagus subulatus ASPARAGACEAE Geophytic Herbs Asplenium cordatum ASPLENIACEAE Low Shrubs Boophone disticha AMARYLLIDACEAE PNCO Low Shrubs Boscia albitrunca CAPPARACEAE Tall Shrubs Brachiaria serrata POACEAE Graminoids Brachylaena discolor ASTERACEAE Tall Shrubs Brunsvigia litoralis AMARYLLIDACEAE End, PNCO Geophytic Herb Bulbine cremnophila ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Canthium spinosum RUBIACEAE Tall Shrubs Capparis sepiaria var. CAPPARACEAE Tall Shrubs citrifolia Carissa bispinosa APOCYNACEAE PNCO Herbs Cassine peragua CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Cenchrus ciliaris POACEAE Graminoids Chrysanthemoides ASTERACEAE Tall Shrubs monilifera Chrysocoma ciliata ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Cissampelos capensis MENISPERMACEAE Succulent Shrubs Cotyledon adscendens CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrub Cotyledon tomentosa subsp. CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs tomentosa Cotyledon velutina CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula cultrata CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula expansa CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula muscosa CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula orbicularis CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula ovata CRASSULACEAE Woody Succulent Climbers

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Botanical Name Family Status** Pres/Abs Growth Form Crassula pellucida subsp. CRASSULACEAE Tall Shrubs marginalis Crassula perforata CRASSULACEAE Succulent Shrubs Crassula rupestris subsp. CRASSULACEAE Woody Succulent Climbers commutata Crassula tetragona subsp. CRASSULACEAE Geophytic Herbs robusta Cussonia spicata ARALIACEAE Low Shrubs Cussonia thyrsiflora ARALIACEAE Tall Shrubs Cyclopia pubescens FABACEAE End Low Shrubs Cymbopogon pospischilii POACEAE Graminoids Cynanchum ellipticum APOCYNACEAE PNCO Herbaceous Climbers Cynanchum natalitium APOCYNACEAE PNCO Herbaceous Climbers Cynanchum obtusifolium APOCYNACEAE PNCO Herbaceous Climbers Cynodon dactylon POACEAE Graminoids Cynodon incompletus POACEAE Graminoids Digitaria eriantha POACEAE Graminoids Dimorphotheca fruticosa ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Dodonaea viscosa var. SAPINDACEAE Tall Shrubs angustifolia Dovyalis rotundifolia SALICACEAE Tall Shrubs Ehrharta calycina POACEAE Graminoids Elytropappus rhinocerotis ASTERACEAE Small Trees Encephalartos lehmannii ZAMIACEAE Small Trees Enneapogon desvauxii POACEAE Graminoids Eragrostis curvula POACEAE Graminoids Eragrostis obtusa POACEAE Graminoids Erica etheliae ERICACEAE End, PNCO Low Shrubs Erica zeyheriana ERICACEAE PNCO Low Shrubs Eriocephalus africanus ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Eriocephalus capitellatus ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Eriocephalus ericoides ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Euclea natalensis EBENACEAE Tall Shrubs Euclea racemosa subsp. EBENACEAE Tall Shrubs racemosa Euclea undulata EBENACEAE Succulent Shrubs Euphorbia ledienii EUPHORBIACEAE Succulent Trees Euphorbia mauritanica EUPHORBIACEAE Low Shrubs Euphorbia polygona EUPHORBIACEAE Small Trees Euphorbia tetragona EUPHORBIACEAE Small Trees Euryops ericifolius ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Euryops spathaceus ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Eustachys paspaloides POACEAE Graminoids Felicia filifolia ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Felicia muricata ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Gasteria ellaphieae ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Gasteria glomerata ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Gasteria rawlinsonii ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Glottiphyllum oligocarpum MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE PNCO Tall Shrubs Glottiphyllum salmii MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE PNCO Tall Shrubs Grewia occidentalis MALVACEAE Tall Shrubs Grewia robusta MALVACEAE Succulent Shrubs Gymnosporia buxifolia CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Gymnosporia capitata CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs

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Botanical Name Family Status** Pres/Abs Growth Form

Gymnosporia elliptica CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Gymnosporia polyacanthus CELASTRACEAE Succulent Herbs Haworthia glauca var. herrei ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Haworthia pungens ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Haworthia zantneriana var. ASPHODELACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Shrubs minor Helichrysum appendiculatum ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Helichrysum teretifolium ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Hermannia gracilis MALVACEAE Succulent Herbs Hermannia pulverata MALVACEAE Woody Climbers Holothrix longicornu ORCHIDACEAE End, PNCO Geophytic Herb Huernia brevirostris subsp. APOCYNACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs baviaana Huernia echidnopsioides APOCYNACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Indigofera denudata FABACEAE Geophytic Herbs Ischyrolepis capensis RESTIONACEAE Graminoids Lepidium africanum BRASSICACEAE Herbs Leucadendron salignum PROTEACEAE Low Shrubs Leucadendron spissifolium PROTEACEAE Low Shrubs subsp. phillipsii Leucas capensis LAMIACEAE Tall Shrubs Leucospermum cuneiforme PROTEACEAE Low Shrubs Limeum aethiopicum MOLLUGINACEAE Low Shrubs Lobelia zwartkopensis LOBELIACEAE Herb Lycium cinereum SOLANACEAE Succulent Shrubs Lycium oxycarpum SOLANACEAE Low Shrubs Maytenus procumbens CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Merxmuellera stricta POACEAE Graminoids Monechma spartioides ACANTHACEAE Succulent Shrubs Moraea pallida IRIDACEAE Herbs Mystroxylon aethiopicum CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Nylandtia spinosa POLYGALACEAE Tall Shrubs Olea exasperata OLEACEAE Tall Shrubs Ozoroa mucronata ANACARDIACEAE Woody Succulent Climbers Pachypodium succulentum APOCYNACEAE Low Shrubs Panicum deustum POACEAE Graminoids Pappea capensis SAPINDACEAE Small Trees Pelargonium suburbanum GERANIACEAE Low Shrubs subsp. suburbanum Pentaschistis heptamera POACEAE Graminoids Pentaschistis pallida POACEAE Graminoids Pollichia campestris CARYOPHYLLACEAE Succulent Herbs Portulacaria afra PORTULACACEAE Succulent Shrubs Protea cynaroides PROTEACEAE Low Shrubs Protea eximia PROTEACEAE Tall Shrubs Protea foliosa PROTEACEAE Low Shrubs Protea neriifolia PROTEACEAE Tall Shrubs Protea repens PROTEACEAE Tall Shrubs Psilocaulon junceum MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE PNCO Small Trees Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus CELASTRACEAE Tall Shrubs Pteronia adenocarpa ASTERACEAE Succulent Shrubs Pteronia incana ASTERACEAE Tall Shrubs Putterlickia pyracantha CELASTRACEAE Succulent Herbs Rapanea gilliana MYRSINACEAE Tall Shrubs

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Botanical Name Family Status** Pres/Abs Growth Form

Rhigozum obovatum BIGNONIACEAE Woody Climbers Rhoicissus digitata VITACEAE Woody Climbers Rhus crenata ANACARDIACEAE Tall Shrubs Rhus glauca ANACARDIACEAE Tall Shrubs Rhus longispina ANACARDIACEAE Small Trees Rhus lucida ANACARDIACEAE Low Shrubs Rhus pterota ANACARDIACEAE Tall Shrubs Robsonodendron maritimum CELASTRACEAE Low Shrubs Rosenia humilis ASTERACEAE Tall Shrubs Sansevieria hyacinthoides DRACAENACEAE Succulent Shrubs Sarcostemma viminale APOCYNACEAE PNCO Geophytic Herbs Schotia afra var. afra FABACEAE Low Shrubs Scutia myrtina RHAMNACEAE Tall Shrubs Secamone alpini APOCYNACEAE PNCO Herbaceous Climbers Selago albida SCROPHULARIACEAE Low Shrubs Selago fruticosa SCROPHULARIACEAE Low Shrubs Senecio junceus ASTERACEAE Herbs Setaria lindenbergiana POACEAE Graminoids Sideroxylon inerme SAPOTACEAE NFA Tall Shrubs Solanum africanum SOLANACEAE Woody Climbers Solanum tomentosum SOLANACEAE Low Shrubs Sporobolus fimbriatus POACEAE Graminoids Stachys aethiopica LAMIACEAE Low Shrubs Stapelia kougabergensis APOCYNACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Tarchonanthus littoralis ASTERACEAE Tall Shrubs Tephrosia capensis FABACEAE Low Shrubs Thamnochortus cinereus RESTIONACEAE Graminoids Themeda triandra POACEAE Graminoids Tragus berteronianus POACEAE Graminoids Tristachya leucothrix POACEAE Graminoids Troglophyton capillaceum ASTERACEAE Low Shrubs Tromotriche baylissii APOCYNACEAE End, PNCO Succulent Herbs Tromotriche longii APOCYNACEAE End, PNCO Geophytic Herbs Viscum rotundifolium VISCACEAE Semiparasitic Epiphytic Shrub Zanthoxylum capense RUTACEAE PNCO Tall Shrubs Zygophyllum foetidum ZYGOPHYLLACEAE Succulent Shrubs Zygophyllum morgsana ZYGOPHYLLACEAE Succulent Shrubs

**PNCO – Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance (19 of 1974); NFA – National Forests Act; End - Endemic

FAUNA

Scientific Name Family Status Common Name Mammals Caracal caracal FELIDAE Least Concern (2016) Caracal Chlorocebus pygerythrus CERCOPITHECIDAE Least Concern (2016) Vervet Monkey Cryptomys hottentotus BATHYERGIDAE Least Concern (2016) Southern African Mole-rat Georychus capensis BATHYERGIDAE Least Concern (2016) Cape Mole-rat Hystrix africaeaustralis HYSTRICIDAE Least Concern Cape Porcupine Mellivora capensis MUSTELIDAE Least Concern (2016) Honey Badger Orycteropus afer ORYCTEROPODIDAE Least Concern (2016) Aardvark

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Scientific Name Family Status Common Name Otomys irroratus MURIDAE Least Concern (2016) Southern African Vlei Rat Pedetes capensis PEDETIDAE Least Concern (2016) South African Spring Hare Philantomba monticola BOVIDAE Vulnerable (2016) Blue Duiker Potamochoerus porcus SUIDAE Red River Hog Redunca fulvorufula BOVIDAE Least Concern Mountain Reedbuck Rhabdomys pumilio MURIDAE Least Concern (2016) Xeric Four-striped Grass Rat Sylvicapra grimmia BOVIDAE Least Concern (2016) Bush Duiker Tragelaphus scriptus BOVIDAE Least Concern Bushbuck Reptiles Bitis arietans arietans Viperidae Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Puff Adder Bradypodion ventrale CHAMAELEONIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Eastern Cape Dwarf Chameleon Chersina angulata TESTUDINIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Angulate Tortoise Naja nivea ELAPIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Cape Cobra Pachydactylus maculatus GEKKONIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Spotted Gecko Psammophylax rhombeatus LAMPROPHIIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Spotted Grass Snake rhombeatus Stigmochelys pardalis TESTUDINIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Leopard Tortoise Trachylepis capensis SCINCIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Cape Skink Varanus niloticus VARANIDAE Least Concern (SARCA 2014) Water Monitor Amphibians Amietia delalandii PYXICEPHALIDAE Least Concern Delalande's River Frog Cacosternum boettgeri PYXICEPHALIDAE Least Concern Common Caco Cacosternum nanum PYXICEPHALIDAE Least Concern Bronze Caco Sclerophrys capensis BUFONIDAE Least Concern Raucous Toad Tomopterna tandyi PYXICEPHALIDAE Least Concern Tandy's Sand Frog Invertebrates Scorpions Baboon Spiders Butterflies Fish Scientific Common Conservation Status and Discussion Name Name Pseudobarbus IUCN Status: Endangered. Found upstream (ca. 1km) of project site at one locality only. This so-called afer “Mandela lineage” is confined to the Baakens, Swartkops and Sundays rivers; redfin populations to the west are considered different species; The Baakens population may be a district lineage, but genetic analysis is needed to confirm this. Sandelia Cape kurper IUCN Status: Data Deficient. Considered by local scientists as a species of special concern, and the capensis Baakens River population may have a distinct genetic lineage (Swartz 2008) and warrants special protection. Enteromius Goldie barb IUCN Status: Least Concern. Local expert opinion (Swartz 2008) considers populations within the pallidus Eastern Cape (B. pallidus South) a distinct species and under threat. Baakens River population may form a unique genetic lineage. Myxus capensis Freshwater IUCN Status: Least Concern. Found adjacent and downstream of site. Catadromous species penetrating mullet upstream of the project site to Holland Dam in Settlers Park, which forms an impassable barrier. However this species is considered locally threatened due to construction of instream barriers in coastal rivers. Monodactylus Cape moony IUCN Status: Least Concern. Found adjacent and downstream of site. Catadromous species common in falciformis estuaries, penetrating upstream into freshwater Anguilla Longfin eel IUCN Status: Least Concern. Found throughout system. Obligatory catadromous species able to mossambica negotiate (climb over) instream barriers Eleotris fusca Dusky IUCN Status: Least Concern. Marine migrant usually found near freshwater-estuarine interface in sleeper coastal rivers, rare in this region Awaous Freshwater IUCN Status: Least Concern. Estuarine migrant found in lower reaches of coastal rivers in low numbers, aeneofuscus goby but rare in this region.

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Scientific Name Family Status Common Name Stenogobius Banded goby IUCN Status: Data Deficient. Estuarine migrant found in lower reaches of coastal rivers, specimen found ?polyzona is a new distribution record and may be a new undescribed species. More specimens required for genetic analyses. Extralimital and alien species Pseudocrenl – Southern Found throughout Baakens River. Extralimital species. The Orange River system is the closest natural labarus philander mouth- habitat. Considered a serious threat to the indigenous fish species in the Baakens R. brooder Tilapia Banded Extralimital species. Translocated by man from Orange River catchment, thus alien to Baakens River. sparrmanii tilapia This is considered an aggressive, alien pest species which poses a threat to indigenous fish in the Baakens River. Gambusia affinus Mosquito fish Alien invasive species but found in low numbers in Baakens River in Settlers Park.

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10 Appendix C: Environmental Management Plan

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

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

10.1 Biodiversity Requirements Protection of Flora and Fauna • Search and rescue operations for Red List Species must be undertaken before the commencement of site clearing activities. • Indigenous vegetation encountered on the sites are to be conserved and left intact. • It is important that clearing activities are kept to the minimum and take place in a phased manner. This allows animal species to move into safe areas and prevents wind and water erosion of the cleared areas. • Stripped vegetation should be temporarily stored during operations and to be used later to stabilise slopes. This excludes exotic invasive species. • No animals are to be harmed or killed during the course of operations. • Workers are NOT allowed to collect any flora or snare any faunal species. All flora and fauna remain the property of the land owner and must not be disturbed, upset or used without their expressed consent. • It is the responsibility of the Contractor to provide sufficient fuel for cooking and heated as needed by the staff. • No domestic animals are permitted on the sites. • Trees and shrubs that are directly affected by the operations may be felled or cleared but only by the expressed written permission of the ECO. • Weeds and alien species must be cleared by hand before the rehabilitation phase of the areas. Removal of alien plants are to be done according to the Working for Water Guidelines. • The Contractor is responsible for the removal of alien species within all areas disturbed during construction activities. Disturbed areas include (but are not limited to) access roads, construction camps, site areas and temporary storage areas. • In consultation with relevant authorities, the Engineer my order the removal of alien plants (when necessary). Areas within the confines of the site are to be included. • All alien plant material (including brushwood and seeds) should be removed from site and disposed of at a registered waste disposal site. Should brushwood be utilised for soil stabilization or mulching, it must be seed free. • Rehabilitation of vegetation of the site must be done as described in the Rehabilitation Plans.

Fires • The Contractor must ensure that an emergency preparedness plan is in place in order to fight accidental fires or veld fires, should they occur. The adjacent land owners/users/managers should also be informed or otherwise involved. • Enclosed areas for food preparation should be provided and the Contractor must strictly prohibit the use of open fires for cooking and heating purposes. • The use of branches of trees and shrubs for fire-making must be strictly prohibited. • The Contractor should take all reasonable and active steps to avoid increasing the risk of fire through their activities on-site. No fires may be lit except at places approved by the ECO. • The Contractor must ensure that the basic fire-fighting equipment is to the satisfaction of the Local Emergency Services.

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• The Contractor must supply all living quarters, site offices, kitchen areas, workshop areas, materials, stores and any other relevant areas with tested and approved fire-fighting equipment. • Fires and “hot work” must be restricted to demarcated areas. • A braai facility may be considered at the discretion of the Contractor and in consultation with the ECO. The area must be away from flammable stores. All events must be under management’s supervision and a fire extinguisher will be immediately available. “Low-smoke” fuels must be used (e.g. charcoal) and smoke control regulations, if applicable, must be considered. • The Contractor must take precautions when working with welding or grinding equipment near potential sources of combustion. Such precautions include having a suitable, tested and approved fire extinguisher immediately at hand and the use of welding curtains.

Soil Aspects • Sufficient topsoil must be stored for later use during decommissioning, particularly from outcrop areas. • Topsoil shall be removed from all areas where physical disturbance of the surface will occur. • All available topsoil shall be removed after consultation with the botanist and horticulturalist prior to commencement of any operations. • The removed topsoil shall be stored on high ground within the site footprint outside the 1:50 flood level within demarcated areas. • Topsoil shall be kept separate from overburden and shall not be used for building or maintenance of roads. • The stockpiled topsoil shall be protected from being blown away or being eroded. The application of a suitable grass seed/runner mix will facilitate this and reduce the minimise weeds.

Dust • To manage complaints relation to impacts on the nearby communities, a dust register will be developed. • If required, water spray vehicles will be used to control wind cause by strong winds during activities on the works. • No over-watering of the site or road surfaces. • Wind screens should be used to reduce wind and dust in open areas.

10.1.1 Infrastructural Requirements Topsoil • Topsoil shall be removed from all areas where physical disturbance of the surface will occur. • All available topsoil shall be removed after consultation with the RE/ECO prior to commencement of any operations. • The removed topsoil shall be stored on high ground within the footprint outside the 1:50 flood level within demarcated areas (Appendix 1) • Topsoil shall be kept separate from overburden and shall not be used for building or maintenance of roads. • The stockpiled topsoil shall be protected from being blown away or being eroded. The use of a suitable grass seed/runner mix will facilitate soil protection and minimise weeds/weed growth.

Stormwater and Erosion Control • Stormwater Management Plans must be developed for the site and should include the following: o The management of stormwater during construction. o The installation of stormwater and erosion control infrastructure. o The management of infrastructure after completion of construction. • Temporary drainage works may be required to prevent stormwater to prevent silt laden surface water from draining into river systems in proximity to the site. Stormwater must be prevented from entering or running off site.

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• To ensure that site are not subjected to excessive erosion and capable of drainage runoff with minimum risk of scour, their slopes should be profiled at a maximum 1:3 gradient. • Diversion channels should be constructed ahead of the open cuts, and above emplacement areas and stockpiles to intercept clean runoff and divert it around disturbed areas into the natural drainage system downstream of the site. • Rehabilitation is necessary to control erosion and sedimentation of all eroded areas (where works will take place). • Existing vegetation must be retained as far as possible to minimise erosion problems. • It is importation that the rehabilitation of site are planned and completed in such a way that the runoff water will not cause erosion. • Visual inspections will be done on a regular basis with regard to the stability of water control structure, erosion and siltation. • Sediment-laden runoff from cleared areas must be prevented from entering rivers and streams. • No river or surface water may be affected by silt emanating from the site.

Site Office / Camp Sites • No site offices or camp sites will be constructed on the site under current operating conditions, existing structures will be used.

Operating Procedures in the Site • Construction shall only take place within the approved demarcated site. • Construction may be limited to the areas indicated by the RE/ECO on assessment of the application. • The holder of the environmental authorisation shall ensure that operations take place only in the demarcated areas as described in this report. • Watering to minimise the effect of dust generation should be carried out as frequently as necessary. Noise should also be kept within reason. • No workers will be allowed to damage or collect any indigenous plant or snare any animal. • Grass and vegetation of the immediate environment, or adapted grass / vegetation will be re-established on completion of construction activities, where applicable. • No firewood to be collected on site and the lighting of fires must be prohibited. • Cognisance is to be taken of the potential for endangered species occurring in the area. It is considered unlikely, however, that these species will be affected by the proposed activity, or the access road.

Excavations Whenever any excavation is undertaken, the following procedures shall be adhered to: • Topsoil shall be handled as described in this EMP. • Excavations shall take place only within the approved demarcated site. • Excavations must follow the contour lines where possible. • The construction site will not be left in any way to deteriorate into an unacceptable state. • The excavated area must serve as a final depositing area for waste rock and overburden during the rehabilitation process. • Once excavations have been filled with overburden, rocks and coarse natural materials and profiled with acceptable contours (including erosion control measures), the previous stored topsoil shall be returned to its original depth over the area. • The area shall be fertilised if necessary to allow vegetation to establish rapidly. The site shall be seeded with a local or adapted indigenous seed mix in order to propagate the locally occurring flora.

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Rehabilitation of Processing and Excavation Areas • On completion of construction, the surface of the processing areas especially if compacted due to hauling and dumping operations shall be scarified to a depth of at least 200 mm and graded to an even surface condition and the previously stored topsoil will be returned to its original depth over the area. • The area shall be fertilised if necessary to allow vegetation to establish rapidly. The site shall be seeded with suitable grasses and local indigenous seed mix. • Excavations may be used for the dumping of construction wastes. This shall be done in such a way as to aid rehabilitation. • Waste (non-biodegradable refuse) will not be permitted to be deposited in the excavations. • If a reasonable assessment indicates that the re-establishment of vegetation is unacceptably slow, the RE/ECO may require that the soil be analysed and any deleterious effects on the soil arising from the activity, be corrected and the area be seeded with a vegetation seed mix to his or her satisfaction. This must be done in conjunction with the ECO. • Final rehabilitation must comply with the requirements mention in the Rehabilitation Plan.

10.1.2 Final Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Objective The overall objective of the rehabilitation plan is to minimize adverse environmental impacts associated with the activity whilst maximizing the future utilization of the property. Significant aspects to be borne in mind in this regard is visibility of the development, revegetation of the footprint and stability and environmental risk. The depression and immediate area of the working must also be free of alien vegetation.

Additional broad rehabilitation strategies / objectives include the following: • Rehabilitating the worked-out areas to take place concurrently within prescribed framework established in the EMP. • All infrastructure, equipment, plant and other items used during the construction period will be removed from the site. • Waste material of any description, including scrap, rubble and tyres, will be removed entirely from the site and disposed of at a recognised landfill facility. It will not be permitted to be buried or burned on site. • Final rehabilitation shall be completed within a period specified by the RE/ECO.

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

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

The topsoil and overburden will be keyed into the reprofiled surfaces to ensure that they are not eroded or washed away. The topsoiled surface will be left fairly rough to enhance seedling establishment, reduce water runoff and increase infiltration.

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Revegetation All prepared surfaces will be seeded with suitable grass species to provide an initial ground cover and stabilize the soil surface.

The overall revegetation plan will, therefore, be as follows: • Ameliorate the aesthetic impact of the site • Stabilise disturbed soil and rock faces • Minimize surface erosion and consequent siltation of natural water course located on site • Control wind-blown dust problems • Enhance the physical properties of the soil • Re-establish nutrient cycling • Re-establish a stable ecological system

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

Drainage and Erosion Control To control the drainage and erosion at site the following procedures will be adopted: • Areas works are complete should be rehabilitated immediately. • Areas to be disturbed in future activities will be kept as small as possible (i.e. conducting the operations in phases), thereby limiting the scale of erosion. • Slopes will be profiled to ensure that they are not subjected to excessive erosion but capable of drainage runoff with minimum risk of scour (maximum 1:3 gradient). • All existing disturbed areas will be re-vegetated to control erosion and sedimentation • Existing vegetation will be retained as far as possible to minimize erosion problems.

Visual Impacts Amelioration The overall visual impact of the proposed activities will be minimised by the following mitigating measures: • Confining the footprint to an area as small as possible • Re-topsoiling and vegetating all disturbed areas

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

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

10.1.4 Closure objectives and their extent of alignment to the pre-construction environment Closure Objectives The closure of the site will involve removal of all debris and rehabilitation of areas not rehabilitated during the operational phases of the project. This will comprise the scarification of compacted areas, reshaping of areas, topsoiling and regenerating all prepared surfaces.

10.2 Post Construction Rehabilitation Plan

On completion of construction the following measures must be implemented.

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• The surface of the processing areas especially if compacted due to hauling and dumping operations shall be scarified to a depth of at least 200 mm and graded to an even surface condition and the previously stored topsoil will be returned to its original depth over the area. • The area shall be fertilised if necessary, to allow vegetation to establish rapidly. The site shall be seeded with suitable grasses and local indigenous seed mix. • Excavations may be used for the dumping of construction wastes. This shall be done in such a way as to aid rehabilitation. • Waste (non-biodegradable refuse) will not be permitted to be deposited in the excavations. • If a reasonable assessment indicates that the re-establishment of vegetation is unacceptably slow, the RE/ECO may require that the soil be analysed and any deleterious effects on the soil arising from the activity, be corrected and the area be seeded with a vegetation seed mix to his or her satisfaction. This must be done in conjunction with the ECO. • Final rehabilitation must comply with the requirements mention in the Rehabilitation Plan.

10.3 Open Space Rehabilitation and Management Plan

10.3.1 Rehabilitation Objective (c) The overall objective of the rehabilitation plan is to minimize adverse environmental impacts associated with construction activities, whilst maximizing the future utilization of the open space areas. (d) Additional broad rehabilitation strategies/objectives include the following: • Rehabilitating the site to take place concurrently within the prescribed framework as established in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). • All infrastructure, equipment, plants and other items used during the construction period must be removed from the site. • Waste material (of any description); including scrap, rubble and tyres, must be removed entirely from the site and disposed of at a recognised landfill facility. It will not be permitted to be buried or burned on site. • Final rehabilitation must be completed within a specified period. Rehabilitation Plan The overall re-vegetation plan will be as follows: • Ameliorate (improve) the aesthetic impact of the site. • Stabilise disturbed soil. • Minimize surface erosion and consequent siltation of natural water course located on site. • Control wind-blown dust problems. • Enhance the physical properties of the soil. • Re-establish nutrient cycling. • Re-establish a stable ecological system. Drainage and Erosion Control To control the drainage and erosion at site the following procedures need to be adopted: • Areas where construction is completed should be rehabilitated immediately. • Existing vegetation will be retained as far as possible to minimize erosion problems.

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Visual Impact Mitigation The overall visual impact of the proposed quartzitic sandstone quarrying operations will be minimised by the following mitigating measures: • Replacement of topsoil and vegetation in all disturbed areas. • Use of indigenous trees and vegetation in Public Open Space areas. Topsoil and Subsoil Replacement To ensure that topsoil and overburden are not eroded or washed away, they must be keyed into the reprofiled surfaces. The topsoiled surface will be left fairly rough to enhance seedling establishment, reduce water run-off and increase filtration. Good quality topsoil stripped from areas to be developed should not be disposed of but used where possible in the rehabilitation of open space areas, where topsoil and fill material may be required. Monitoring and Reporting (c) Until a closure certificate is obtained; adequate management, maintenance and monitoring will be carried out annually by the applicant, to ensure successful rehabilitation of the property (d) Adopting a progressive rehabilitation programme to minimise adverse environmental impacts that are associated with operations. The programme will entail carrying out the proposed rehabilitation procedures concurrently with quarrying activities. Inspecting and Monitoring • Regular monitoring of all the environmental management measures and components must be carried out to ensure that the provisions of this programme are adhered to. • On-going and regular reporting of the implementation progress of this programme will be done. An environmental audit must be carried out by an independent consultant on an annual/bi-annual basis. • Any change to the mining process needs to be documented during the audit process. Necessary changes need to be recorded to facilitate future mining operations and audit investigations. • Inspections and monitoring must be carried out on both the implementation of the programme and the impact on plant life.

10.4 Exotic Vegetation Management Plan

An integrated Exotic and Invasive Plant Management Plan for the remainder of the site should include: • The removal of alien vegetation in a phased manner to be implemented during the construction phase, and dependant on new phases as they come online. • Priority should be given to clearing designated Open Space and areas to be rehabilitated during the early phases of construction to allow them time to recover. • The continued maintenance of the rehabilitated area during the operational phases. • The Alien Management Plan will consist of three phases, each of which will be planned on a year-to-year basis: o Initial control: drastic reduction of the existing population; o Follow-up control: reduction of seedlings, root suckers and coppice growth; o The main aim of maintenance control is to sustain low alien plant numbers/density with low annual costs. At this phase, alien plants must no longer be considered a problem. Monitor the situation two-three times each year (spring, mid-summer and autumn) to avoid alien plant re-infestation, spread and densification, and thereby avoid increased control costs.

Invasive exotic plants and weeds must be eradicated on the property as per Alien Management Plan. Basic principles to be adhered to include: • Cleared alien vegetation must not be dumped on adjacent intact vegetation during clearing, but should be temporarily stored in a demarcated area (in consultation with the ECO). • Cleared vegetation must be either removed from site or burned in-situ in the temporary storage area. • Any seed bearing material should be removed from the drainage area to prevent the spread of seed. • Chopped brushwood can be used to stabilise steep areas that may be susceptible to erosion during clearing activities.

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• Follow-up clearing and maintenance must be maintained for the duration of the construction and operational phase of the development. • The implementation of the alien management and the rehabilitation and landscaping plans must be integrated. • Specific management guidelines must be compiled and implemented to address different alien invasive species, affected habitat and severity of infestation.

10.5 Fire Management Plan

10.5.1 Minimise Fuel Load • Eradicate and control exotic vegetation on the site, and dispose of the felled material in the appropriate fashion. • Keep litter (cleared vegetation) piles on site to a minimum by conducting regular controlled burns of accumulated litter. • Identity and map areas of high fire risk; for example, dense exotic vegetation stands, litter piles, and fuel storage areas. This will help to facilitate easier fire detection. • Maintain adequate fire breaks between open space areas and developed areas. • Periodic controlled burns within the Open Space system will be required to reduce moribund vegetation.

10.6 Baakens River Management Plan 10.6.1 Stormwater and Erosion Management Plan Stormwater Management Plan must be implemented for the site and should include the following: • The installation of stormwater and erosion control infrastructure. • The management of stormwater during construction. • The management and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure after completion of construction and during the operational phases.

In addition, the following measures must be adhered to: • Temporary drainage works may be required to prevent silt laden surface water runoff from draining into the river systems in proximity to the site. Silt laden runoff, during the construction phase must be prevented from entering the river, especially where large scale site clearing and construction may be taking place. • Sediment-laden runoff from cleared areas must be prevented from entering the river. No river or surface water must be affected by silt emanating from the site. • To ensure that site is not subjected to excessive erosion and capable of drainage runoff with minimum risk of scour, their slopes must be profiled at a maximum 1:3 gradient, or where not possible specific measures implemented to counteract. • Diversion channels must be constructed ahead of the open cuts, and above emplacement areas and stockpiles to intercept clean runoff and divert it around disturbed areas into the natural drainage system downstream of the site. • Rehabilitation is necessary to control erosion and sedimentation of all eroded areas (where works will take place).

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• Existing vegetation must be retained as far as possible to minimise erosion problems. • It is importation that the rehabilitation of site is planned and completed in such a way that the runoff water will not cause erosion. • Visual inspections must be done on a regular basis with regard to the stability of runoff control structures, erosion and siltation.

10.6.2 Bank Stabilisation and Removal of Weir Structure) The potential short-term impacts associated with the above activities are related to deterioration in water quality due to elevated turbidity levels caused by mobilisation of fine sediment and leakage of hydrocarbons from the vehicles and plant used. These impacts can readily be avoided by strict implementation of the standard mitigation measures outlined in the construction environmental management plan and the auditing of detailed method statements drawn up by the contractor, when appointed.

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11 Appendix D: Specialist CV, SACNASP Registration and Declaration

Name of firm Engineering Advice & Services (Pty) Ltd Name of staff JAMIE ROBERT CLAUDE POTE ID Number 740515 5152 089 Profession Registered Ecological Scientist and Environmental Scientist Years with firm 4.5 Years Nationality South African Membership to Professional Societies The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP): Pr. Sci. Nat.: 115233 International Association for Impact Assessment South Africa (IAIAsa) Member Number 5045

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Mr Jamie Pote has 15 years extensive professional experience in a wide range of Ecological Specialist Assessments in South Africa (Eastern, Western & Northern Cape, Gauteng and Limpopo), Namibia, Mozambique, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo and Ghana in the Infrastructure, Mining and Development Sectors. He also has experience in conducting Basic Assessments, EIA’s, Section 24 G applications and Mining Permit EMP’s as well as developing GIS and other tools for Environmental related work.

He has broad ecological experience in a wide range of habitats and ecosystems in Southern, West and Central Africa and has been involved in all stages of project development from inception, through planning and environmental application and authorization (BAR and EMP) to implementation (Flora relocation) and compliance monitoring (ECO auditing). Jamie has a well- deserved reputation for providing quality professional services. His strategy incorporates using proven methodologies with a highly responsive approach to sound environmental management, including developing adaptive methodologies and approaches with available technologies. He is highly capable of working within a team of qualified professionals or in an individual capacity.

EDUCATION

•BSc Rhodes University (Botany and Environmental Science) 2001 •BSc (Hons) Rhodes University (Botany) 2002

EMPLOYMENT RECORD

2003 – 2014 Self Employed Consultant Specialist Environmental Consultant (Ecology) 2014 (Aug) – present Engineering Advice & Services Environmental Unit Manager, EAP and Ecologist

LANGUAGES Speak Read Write English Excellent Excellent Excellent Afrikaans Good Excellent Excellent

PROJECT EXPERIENCE

SPECIALISED ECOLOGICAL REPORTS

▪ Botanical & Riparian Assessment for Orange River Weirs-Boegoeberg, Douglas Dam and Sendelingsdrif in Northern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for State of the Environment Report for Chris Hani District Municipality SoER in Eastern Cape 2003 ▪ Forestry Rehabilitation Assessment Report for Amahlathi Forest Rehabilitation in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Sensitivity Analysis for LSDP, Greenbushes-Hunters Retreat in NMB 2008 ▪ Representative for landowner group for Seaview burial Park in NMB 2010 ▪ Mapping of bridge for Kenton Water Board in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Rehabilitation Plan for N2 Upgrade - Coega to Colchester in NMB 2010 ▪ Rehabilitation Plan for Nieu Bethesda in Eastern Cape 2011 ▪ Mapping and Ecological services for Congo Agriculture in Republic of Congo 2013

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▪ Section 24G Assessment and Rehabilitation Plan for Bingo Farm in Eastern Cape 2014 ▪ Green Star Rating Ecological Assessment for SANRAL office, Bay West City, NMBM 2015 ▪ Rehabilitation Plan for Hitgeheim Farm (Farm 960), Sunland, Eastern Cape 2017

FLORA AND FAUNA RELOCATION PLANS, PERMITS AND IMPLEMENTATION

▪ Flora Relocation for Disco Poultry Farm in NMB 2010 ▪ Flora Relocation for Mainstream Windfarm in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue Plan for Red Cap Wind Farm in Eastern Cape 2012 ▪ Flora and Fauna Search and Rescue for Mainstream Windfarm in Eastern Cape 2013 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue for Steytlerville Bulk Water Supply in Eastern Cape (Phase 1, 2 & 3) 2013 ▪ Flora and Fauna Search and Rescue for OTGC Tank Farm, Coega IDZ in NMB 2013 ▪ Flora and Fauna Search and Rescue for Jeffreys Bay School in Eastern Cape 2013 ▪ Flora and Fauna Search and Rescue for Riversbend Citrus Farm in NMB 2014 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue for Steytlerville Bulk Water Supply & WTW in Eastern Cape (Phase 4) 2015 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue for Steytlerville Bulk Water Supply in Eastern Cape (Phase 5) 2016 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue for Citrus expansion on Farm 960, Patensie (AIN du Preez Boerdery) 2016 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue for Citrus expansion on Hitgeheim Farm (Farm 960), Sunland, Eastern Cape 2017

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for PE Airport Extention in NMB 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment and GIS mapping for golf course realignment for East London Golf Course in BCM, Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Radar Mast construction for South African Weather Service - BCM and NMB 2008 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Jansenville Cemetery in Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Kouga Dam wall upgrade in Eastern Cape 2012 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Kidd’s Beach Desalination Plant in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006

POWERLINE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for Steynsburg - Teebus 132 kV powerline in Eastern Cape 2004 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Eskom 132kV Dedisa Grassridge Power line-Coega in NMB 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Eskom Power line – Tyalara-Wilo in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Species of Special Concern Mapping Transmission Line for San Souci to Nivens Drift 132kV powerline in NMB 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Eskom Powerline - Albany-Kowie in Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Dedisa-Grassridge Powerline in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Grahamstown-Kowie Powerline in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Dieprivier Karreedouw 132kV Powerline in Eastern Cape 2012 ▪ Flora and Fauna search and Rescue plan for Van Stadens Windfarm Powerline in NMB 2012 ▪ Rehabilitation Plan and Auditing for Grassridge-Poseidon Powerline Rehab in Eastern Cape 2013 ▪ Eskom Solar one Ecological Walkdown: Nieuwehoop 400 kV powerline 2015 ▪ Ecological Assessment: Dieprivier-Karreedouw 132kV Powerline realignment in Kouga LM 2016 ▪ Eskom Ecological Walkdown: Dieprivier-Karreedouw 132 kV Powerline in Kouga LM 2016

BRIDGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

▪ Detailed Botanical Assessment for Port Alfred water bridge in Eastern Cape 2004 ▪ Botanical & Floristic Report for Hankey bridge in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Environmental Risk Assessment for Elands River bridge in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Detailed Botanical Assessment for Motherwell Bridge in NMB 2007 ▪ Detailed Botanical Assessment, GIS maps for Erasmuskloof Bridge in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Map Production for Russell Rd Stormwater in NMB 2008 ▪ Basic Botanical Assessment for Albany Bridge in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Species of Special Concern Mapping for Seaview Bridge in NMB 2009 ▪ Species of Special Concern Mapping for Chelsea Bulk Water Bridge in NMB 2009 ▪ Basic Botanical Assessment for Wanhoop farm bridge in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Basic Botanical Assessment for Chatty Sewer in NMB 2010 ▪ Detailed Ecological Assessment for Suikerbos Bridge in Gauteng 2012 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Steytlerville Bulk Water Supply in Eastern Cape (Phase 4) 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Steytlerville Bulk Water Supply in Eastern Cape (Phase 5) 2013 ▪ Vegetation Assessment for Wanhoop-Willowmore Bulk Water Supply in Eastern Cape 2016 ▪ Vegetation Assessment for Butterworth Emergency Water Supply Scheme 2017

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ROAD AND RAILWAY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

▪ Ecological Assessment for Road Layout for Whiskey Creek- Kenton in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Mn Conveyor Screening Report in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Basic Assessment for Bholani Village Rd, Port St Johns in Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Report, EMP and Rehab Plan for Coega-Colchester N2 Upgrade in NMB 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Chelsea RD - Walker Drive Ext. in NMB 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Motherwell - Blue Water Bay Road in NMB 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Port St John Road in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment Review for Penhoek Road widening in Eastern Cape 2012 ▪ Ecological Assessment for R61 road widening in Eastern Cape 2012 ▪ Botanical Assessment for CDC IDZ Mn Terminal, conveyor and railway line in NMB 2013

MINING PROJECTS

▪ Biophysical Assessment for Humansdorp Quarry in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Quarry-Cathcart & Somerset East in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Quarry - Despatch Quarry in NMB 2006 ▪ GIS Mapping & Botanical Assessment and Rehab Plan for Quarry - JBay Crushers in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehabilitation Plan for Polokwane Silicon Smelter in Limpopo 2006 ▪ Application for Mining Permit for Bruce Howarth Quarry in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Scoping Report and Detailed Botanical Assessment and Rehab Plan for Elitheni Coal Mine in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit - Oyster Bay in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit - Bathurst/GHT in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit – Jeffreys Bay in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit - Storms river/Kareedouw in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Zwartenbosch Quarry in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical description & map production for Quarry - Rudman Quarry in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Basic Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit - Rocklands/Patensie in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment & Maps for Sandman Sand Gravel Mine in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment & GIS maps for Shamwari Borrow Pit in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Detailed Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehab Plan for Kalakundi Copper/Cobalt Mine in Democratic Republic of Congo 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Borrow Pit Humansdorp/Oyster Bay in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Cala in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Camdeboo in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Somerset East in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Nkonkobe in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Ndlambe in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for AWRM - Blue Crane Route in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehabilitation Plan for AWRM - Cathcart in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, GIS maps and Rehab Plan for Mthatha Prospecting in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Regional Botanical Map for mining prospecting permit for Welkom Regional mapping in 2008 ▪ Ecological Assessment and Mining and Rehabilitation Plan for Baghana Mining in Ghana 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Bochum Borrow Pits in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment and Mining and Rehabilitation Plan for Greater Soutpansberg Mining Project in Limpopo (3 proposed Mines) 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Thulwe Road Borrow Pits in Limpopo 2013

WIND FARM AND PHOTOVOLTAIC INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for Electrawinds Windfarm Coega in NMB 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Mainstream Windfarm Phase 2 in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Inca Energy Windfarm in Northern Cape 2011 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Universal Windfarm in NMB 2011 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Broadlands Photovoltaic Farm in the Eastern Cape 2011 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Windcurrent Wind Farm in Eastern Cape 2012

BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for Kenton Petrol Station in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment and RoD amendments for Colchester - Petrol Station in NMB 2005

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▪ Botanical Assessment for Bluewater Bay Erf 805 in NMB 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Petro SA Refinery, Coega IDZ in NMB 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for OTGC Tank Farm in NMB 2012 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Green Star grading for SANRAL in NMB 2014 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Bay West City ENGEN Service Station 2015

HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for Bridgemead – Malabar PE in NMB 2004 ▪ Botanical Basic Assessment for Trailees Wetland Assessment in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Rehab Plan for Arlington Racecourse - PE in NMB 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Smart Stone in NMB 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Peninsular Farm (Port Alfred) in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Mount Pleasant - Bathurst in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment and RoD amendments for Colchester Erven 1617 & 1618 (Riverside) in NMB 2005 ▪ Basic Botanical Assessment for Parsonsvlei 3/4 in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Gonubie Portion 809/9 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Glengariff Farm 723 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Gonubie Portion 809/10 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Gonubie Portion 809/4 & 5 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg bay - Ladywood 438/1&3 in Western Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Rehab Plan for Winterstrand Desalination Plant in BCM 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Bosch Hoogte in NMB 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg bay Farm 444/38 in Western Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay - 444/27 in Western Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Leisure Homes in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay - 438/24 in Western Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay - Olive Hills 438/7 in Western Cape 2007 ▪ Vegetation Assessment for Kwanokuthula RDP housing project in Western Cape 2008 ▪ Site screening assessment for Greenbushes Site screening in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Fairfax development in Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay Brakkloof 50&51 in Western Cape 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, GIS mapping for Theescombe Erf 325 in NMB 2008 ▪ Site Screening for Mount Road in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Greenbushes Farm 40 Swinburne 404 in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Greenbushes 130 in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Greenbushes Kuyga no. 10 in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Kouga RDP Housing in Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Fairview Erf 1226 (Wonderwonings) in NMB 2009 ▪ Species List Compilation for Zeeloeirivier Humansdorp in Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Woodlands Golf Estate (Farm 858) in BCM, Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay - 438/4 in Western Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for The Crags 288/03 in Western Cape 2010 ▪ Revision of Ecological Assessment for Fairview Housing – NMB (EC) 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Open Space Management Plan for Hornlee Housing Development in WC 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Little Ladywood in Western Cape 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Motherwell NU31 in NMB 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Plett 443/07 in Western Cape 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Willow Tree Farm in NMB 2010 ▪ Flora Search and Rescue Plan for Kwanobuhle Housing in Western Cape 2011 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Ethembeni Housing in NMB 2012 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Pelana Housing in Limpopo 2012 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Lebowakgoma Housing in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Giyani Development in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Palmietfontein Development in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Seshego Development in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Sheerness Road in BCM, Eastern Cape 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Hankey Housing, Kouga District Municipality 2015 ▪ Ecological Assessment for erf 15, Kabega, Port Elizabeth 2017

GOLF ESTATE AND RESORT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehabilitation Plan for Tiffendel Ski Resort in Eastern Cape 2006

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▪ Botanical Assessment for Rockcliff Resort Development in BCM, Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Rockcliff Golf Course in BCM, Eastern Cape 2008 ▪ Species List& Comments Report for Kidds Beach Golf Course in BCM, Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Plettenberg Bay -Farm 288/03 in Western Cape 2009

MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment and GIS mapping for Madiba Bay Leisure Park in NMB 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment and GIS mapping for Madiba Bay Leisure Park in NMB 2007 ▪ Botanical Basic Assessment for Cuyler Manor (Farm 320), Uitenhage in NMB 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment and GIS maps for Utopia Estate PE in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, GIS maps, Open Space and Rehab Plans for Fairview Erf 1082 in NMB 2009 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Open Space Management Plan for Bay West City in NMB 2010

ECO-ESTATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment for Rosehill Farm in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Resolution Game Farm in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Gonubie Portion 809/11 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Kidd’s Beach portion 1075 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehabilitation Plan for Seaview Eco-estate in NMB 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Kidd’s Beach portion 1076 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Palm Springs, Kidds Beach East London in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Nahoon Farm 29082 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Roydon Game farm, Queenstown in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Winterstrand Estate (Farm 1008) in BCM, Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment for Homeleigh Farm 820 in BCM, Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Basic Assessment, Rehab Plan & Maps for Candlewood, Tsitsikamma in Western Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment, EMP and Rehab Plan for Carpe Diem Eco development in Eastern Cape 2007 ▪ Botanical Assessment - Poultry Farm for Coega Kammaskloof Farm 191 in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment - Housing development for Coega Ridge in NMB 2008 ▪ Botanical Assessment, Rehabilitation Plan, EMP and GIS maps for Amanzi Estate in NMB, 2008 ▪ Detailed Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Olive Hills in Western Cape 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment and EMP for Zwartenbosch Road in Eastern Cape 2010

AGRICULTURAL PROJECTS

▪ Botanical Assessment and Flora Relocation Plan for Wildemans Plaas, in NMB 2006 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Kudukloof in NMB 2010 ▪ Botanical Assessment and Open Space Management Plan for Landros Veeplaats in NMB 2010 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Tzaneen Chicken Farm in Limpopo 2013 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Doornkraal Pivot (Hankey) in Eastern Cape 2014 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Citrus expansion on farm 960, Patensie 2014 ▪ Ecological Assessment for Citrus expansion on Hitgeheim Farm, Sunland, Eastern Cape 2015

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLANS

▪ Floral Survey for Mbotyi Conservation Assessment in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Identifying and Assessment on Aquatic Weeds for Pumba Private Game Reserve in Eastern Cape 2005 ▪ Biodiversity & Ecological Processes for Bathurst-Commonage in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ EMP for Kromensee EMP (Jeffries Bay) in Eastern Cape 2006 ▪ Baseline Botanical Study, Vegetation mapping and EMP for Local Nature Reserve for Plettenberg Bay Lookout LNA in Western Cape 2009 ▪ Basic Botanical Assessment for Kromensee EMP (Jeffries Bay) in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Wetland Management Plan for NMB Portnet in NMB 2010

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL OFFICER, AUDITING AND MONITORING PROJECTS

▪ Flora Relocation Plan and Permit application for Wildemans Plaas, in NMB 2006 ▪ EMP submission and ECO for Seaview Garden Estate in NMB 2010 ▪ EMP and ECO for Sinati Golf Estate EMP in BCM, Eastern Cape 2009 ▪ ECO audits for NMB Road surfacing in NMB (multiple contacts) 2011 ▪ ECO for Mainstream Windfarm wind monitoring mast installation in Eastern Cape 2010 ▪ Final EMP submission for Seaview Garden Estate in NMB 2012

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▪ EMP and ECO for Utopia Estate in NMB 2013 ▪ ECO for Riversbend Citrus Farm in NMB 2014 ▪ ECO for Alfred Nzo DM Road resurfacing - DR08071, DR08649, DR08092, DR08418, DR08452, DR08015, DR08085, DR08639 & DR08073 in Eastern Cape - MSBA 2014 ▪ ECO Audits for Koukamma Flood Damage Road Repairs – Hatch Goba 2014 ▪ ECO for DRPW IRM Road Maintenance projects in Amahlathi Municipality 2015 ▪ ECO for DRPW IRM Road Maintenance projects in Makana/Ndlambe Municipality 2015 ▪ ECO for DRPW IRM Road Maintenance projects in Mbashe/Mqume Municipality 2015 ▪ ECO for DRPW IRM Road Maintenance projects in Port St Johns, Mbizana, Ingquza Hill Municipalities 2015 ▪ ECO and Botanical Specialist for the special maintenance of national route R61 Section 2 from Elinus Farm (km 42.2) to N10 (km 85.0) (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Environmental Control Officer (ECO): Construction of NSRI Slipway - Port Elizabeth Harbour 2016 ▪ ECO for SANRAL RRP Road Maintenance projects in Mbashe LM 2016 ▪ ECO for SANRAL RRP Road Maintenance projects in Nkonkobe LM 2016 ▪ ECO for SANRAL RRP Road Maintenance projects in Mbizana LM 2016 ▪ ECO for SANRAL RRP Road Maintenance projects in Senqu LM 2016 ▪ ECO for SANRAL RRP Road Maintenance projects in Elundini LM 2016 ▪ ECO and Environmental Management for closure of Bushmans River Landfill site 2016 ▪ ECO for Citrus expansion on Farm 960, Patensie (AIN du Preez Boerdery) 2017 ▪ ECO for Citrus expansion on Hitgeheim Farm (Farm 960), Sunland, Eastern Cape 2017 ▪ DEO for improvement of national route R67 section 5 from Whittlesea (km 0.00) to Swart Kei river (km 15.40) – Murray & Roberts 2017

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT PROJECTS (DEDEAT)

▪ Basic Assessment Application for Citrus expansion on farm 960, Patensie (AIN du Preez Boerdery) 2014 ▪ Basic Assessment Application for Citrus expansion on Hitgeheim Farm, Sunland, Eastern Cape 2015 ▪ Basic Assessment Application for Hankey Housing, Kouga District Municipality 2015

MINING PERMIT/ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME APPLICATIONS (DMR)

▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - MR00716 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - DR02581 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - DR08041, DR08247, DR08248 & DR08504 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - DR08599, DR08601 & DR08570 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - DR08235, DR08551 & DR08038 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Alfred Nzo DM Borrow Pits - DR08092, DR08093 & DR08649 (DRPW) 2014 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Alfred Nzo DM Borrow Pits - DR08090, DR08412, DR08425, DR08129, DR08109, DR08106, DR08104 & DR08099 – Matatiele (DRPW) ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits - MR00716 (Tarkastad) (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Chris Hani DM Borrow Pits – Intsika Yethu and Emalahleni (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Joe Gqabi DM Borrow Pits – Senqu (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Makana/Ndlambe LM Borrow Pits – Sarah Baartman (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Amahlathi LM Borrow Pits – Amatole (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Mbashe/Mqume LM Borrow Pits – Amatole (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Sundays River Valley LM Borrow Pits – Sarah Baartman (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Kouga LM Borrow Pits – Sarah Baartman (DRPW) 2015 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Nkonkobe LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Mbhashe LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Mbizana LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Senqu LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Elundini LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Emalahleni LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Emalahleni LM Borrow Pits – (DRPW) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Ikwezi/Baviaans LM Borrow Pits – (DRPW) 2016 ▪ Mining BAR/EMP's for Ingquza Hill LM Borrow Pits – (SANRAL) 2017 SECTION 24G APPLICATIONS

▪ 12 000 ML Dam constructed on farm 960, Patensie (MGM Trust) 2015 ▪ Illegal clearing of 20 Ha of lands on Hitgeheim Farm, Sunland, Eastern Cape 2015

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ENVIRONMENTAL SCREENING PROJECTS

▪ Terrestrial Vegetation Risk Assessment for proposed Skietnek Citrus Farm development (Kirkwood) 2015 ▪ Preliminary Environmental Risk Assessment: NSRI Slipway, NMB 2015 ▪ Environmental Screening Report for Proposed Development of a Dwelling on Erf 899, Theescombe, NMB 2015 ▪ Environmental Screening Report for Proposed Development on Erf 559, Walmer, NMB 2015 ▪ Environmental Screening Report for Proposed Housing Scheme Development of Erf 8709, Wells Estate, NMB 2015

GIS AND IT DEVELOPMENT

▪ Development of GIS databases and mapping tools for Manifold GIS software 2008 ▪ Landsat Image classification and analysis (Congo Agriculture) 2010 ▪ Development of iAuditor Environmental Audit templates (DRPW audits) 2014 ▪ Environmental Risk model for Borrow Pit screening in Eastern Cape 2016 ▪ Development of audit templates for DRPW and SANRAL projects 2017

CONFERENCES AND PUBLICATIONS

▪ Pote, J., Shackleton, C.M., Cocks, M. & Lubke, R. 2006. Fuelwood harvesting and selection in Valley Thicket, South Africa. Journal of Arid Environments, 67: 270-287. ▪ Pote, J., Cocks, M., Dold, T., Lubke, R.A. and Shackleton, C. 2004. The homegarden cultivation of indigenous medicinal plants in the Eastern Cape. Indigenous Plant Use Forum, 5 - 8 July 2004, Augsburg Agricultural School, Clanwilliam, Western Cape. ▪ Pote, J. & Lubke, R.A. 2003. The selection of indigenous species suitable for use as fuelwood and building materials as a replacement of invasive species that are currently used by the under-privileged in the Grahamstown commonage. Working for Water Inaugural Research Symposium 19 - 21 August 2003, Kirstenbosch. Poster presentation. ▪ Pote, J. & Lubke, R.A. 2003. The screening of indigenous pioneer species for use as a substitute cover crop for rehabilitation after removal of woody alien species by WfW in the grassy fynbos biome in the Eastern Cape. Working for Water Inaugural Research Symposium 19 - 21 August 2003, Kirstenbosch, South Africa.

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

▪ Resource assessment of bark stripped trees in indigenous forests in Weza/Kokstad area (June 2000; Dr. C. Geldenhuis & Mr. M. Kaplin). ▪ Working for Water research project for indigenous trees for woodlots (December 2000/January 2001; Prof R.A. Lubke, Rhodes University). ▪ Project coordinator and leader of the REFYN project – A BP conservation gold award: Conservation and Restoration of Grassy-Fynbos. A multidisciplinary project focusing on management, restoration and public awareness/education (2001 – 2002). ▪ Conservation Project Management Training Workshops: Royal Geographical Society, London 2001 – Fieldwork Techniques, Habitat Assessment, Biological Surveys, Project Planning, Public Relations and Communications, Risk Assessment, Conservation Education ▪ Selection and availability of wood in Crossroads village, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Honours Research Project 2002. Supervisors: Prof. R.A. Lubke & Prof. C. Shackleton. ▪ Floral Morphology, Pollination and Reproduction in Cyphia (LOBELIACEAE). Honours Research Project 2002. Supervisor: Mr. P. Phillipson. ▪ Forestry resource assessment of bark-stripped species in Amatola District (December 2002; Prof R.A. Lubke). ▪ Homegarden Cultivation of Medicinal Plants in the Amathole area. Postgraduate Research Project (2003-2005; Prof R.A. Lubke, Prof C.M. Shackleton and Ms C.M., Cocks).

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75 South End Precinct: Ecological Assessment Report 25 June 2019 CURRICULUM VITAE (Abbreviated Version) A.H.Bok

Name: BOK, Anton Hidde Nationality: South African South Profession: Aquatic Ecologist (Fish) Place of Birth: Africa Present Position: Environmental consultant Birth Date/ID: 22/04/1945 / 4504225054086 Key Qualifications: Anton Bok has over 35 years’ experience in the field of conservation, research and management of rivers in southern and central Africa, with emphasis on fish fauna. This work includes baseline fish biodiversity surveys, breeding biology of indigenous fish; specialist studies on fish and aquatic habitats for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs); research on the design and monitoring of fishways (fish ladders) for indigenous fish; ecological water (or instream flow) requirements (EWR) studies for ecological “Reserve” determinations in various rivers in SA, with specialist input on the requirements of fish fauna. Formal Qualifications

1. B.Sc. (Zoology), 1968. University of Cape Town 2. B.Sc. Hon. (Zoology), 1969) Rhodes University 3. M.Sc. (Zoology), 1974 University of Port Elizabeth 4. Ph.D. (Ichthyology), 1984 Rhodes Univ., JLB Smith Institute of Ichthyology Professional Memberships

❑ Professional Member of South African Institute of Ecologists and Environmental Scientists (elected 1997) ❑ Member of Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists. ❑ Honorary Research Associate of the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity ❑ Registered Professional Natural Scientist (Reg. No. 400406/11) with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professionals (field of practice: Aquatic Science) Professional Experience

1975 to 1996: Cape Nature Conservation/Eastern Cape Nature Conservation Employed as aquatic specialist scientist with (the then) Directorate of Cape Nature Conservation in Cape Province, South Africa. Activities included research on the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems, conservation and sustainable utilization of all aquatic resources in the Cape Province, specialist advice on potential environmental impacts of proposed developments (EIA’s), related to the aquatic ecosystems.

1997 to present date: Private environmental consultant Principle founding member of Anton Bok Aquatic Consultants CC, an environmental consultancy, specializing in environmental impact assessments (EIAs) of developments, mainly those associated with aquatic ecosystems, including Environmental Reserve studies, specialising in ecological flow requirements of the fish component.

Typical recent assignments reflecting consultancy expertise:

2015 (Nov) South Africa (ex Transkei): Specialist Study (fish) for Environmental Flow Requirements and eco- classification of Shixini R. for Amajingqi Macadamia Farm project (contracted to Indwe Consulting, East London. 2015 (Sept) Mozambique: Specialist baseline and environmental impact study on fish and aquatic habitat forming part of the EIA by EOH (Coastal Environmental Services or CES) for the Ancuabe Graphite Mine, Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique. 2015 (April) Mozambique: Specialist aquatic biodiversity study (fish) in selected coastal streams for the SASOL PSA Development and LPG Project, Inhassoro Province, Mozambique – for EIA by EOH (CES). 2013-2014 Lesotho: Specialist fish & aquatic habitat study forming part of the EIA by Coastal & Environmental Services (CES) (client: Lesotho Highlands Development Authority) for potential impacts of the proposed Polihali Dam on the Senqu (Orange) River.