Peddie Wind Energy Facility Project

ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Prepared for:

Prepared by:

Coastal & Environmental Services EAST LONDON 2 Marine Terrace, Hampton Court 5201 043 742 3302 Also in Grahamstown and Durban www.cesnet.co.za

23 August 2012

Ecological Impact Assessment

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Ecological Impact Assessment

This Report should be sited as follows: Coastal & Environmental Services, 23 August 2012: Peddie WEF Ecological Impact Assessment, CES, East London. CES Report Revision and Tracking Schedule

Document Title Ecological Impact Assessment

Client Name & Innowind Address

Document Reference 23 August 2012: Peddie WEF Ecological Impact Assessment, CES, East London Status Final

Issue Date 23 August 2012

Lead Author Roy de Kock CES East London

Reviewer Dr Alan Carter CES East London

Coastal & Environmental Services 1 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment

THE PROJECT TEAM

Dr Alan Carter Pri. Nat. Sci., Director of the East London Office, has extensive training and experience in both financial accounting and environmental science disciplines with international accounting firms in South Africa and the USA. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and holds a PhD in Plant Sciences. He is also a certified ISO14001 EMS auditor with the American National Standards Institute and the British Standards Institute.

Mr Roy de Kock Cand. Nat. Sci., Environmental Consultant, holds a BSc Honours in Geology and an MSc in Botany from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. His MSc thesis focussed on Rehabilitation Ecology with the focus on Mine Rehabilitation. He has been working for CES since 2010, and is based at the East London branch where he focuses on ecological impact assessments, geological and hydro geological analysis, environmental management plans and various environmental impact studies

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGIS Agricultural Geo-reference Information System BGIS Biodiversity Geographical Information System CBA Critical Biodiversity Area CES Coastal & Environmental Services CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna DAFF Department of Fisheries and Forestry DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DEDEAT Department of Economic Development Environmental Affairs and Tourism DWA Department of Water Affaire ECBCP Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan ECO Environmental Control Officer IPP’s Independent Power Producers IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature MW Megawatts NEMA The National Environmental Management Act PNCO Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance RDB Red Data Book SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute SPC Species of Possible Concern SSC Species of Special Concern STEP Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme WEF Wind Energy Facility

Coastal & Environmental Services 2 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 5 1.1 Project description ...... 5 1.2 Project locality ...... 5 1.3 Turbine placement and structure ...... 6 1.4 Power lines, access roads and associated infrastructure ...... 8 1.5 Alternatives ...... 8 1.5.1 No-Go alternative...... 8 1.6 Objectives...... 8 1.7 Terms of Reference ...... 8 1.8 Approach ...... 9 1.9 Limitations and assumptions ...... 9 2 RELEVANT LEGISLATION ...... 11 3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...... 12 3.1 Species of special concern ...... 12 3.1.1 Plant species of special concern ...... 12 3.1.2 Faunal species of special concern ...... 13 3.1.3 Sampling protocol ...... 13 3.2 Vegetation mapping ...... 13 3.3 Sensitivity assessment ...... 13 3.4 Impact assessment ...... 14 3.4.1 Impact rating methodology ...... 14 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT...... 18 4.1 Literature review and Desktop information ...... 18 4.1.1 SANBI Vegetation (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) ...... 18 4.1.2 Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme (STEP) ...... 19 4.1.3 Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP) ...... 19 4.1.4 SANBI Working for Wetlands ...... 20 4.2 Current land-use and general state of environment ...... 22 4.2.1 Topography ...... 22 4.2.2 Geology and soils ...... 23 4.2.3 Climate ...... 23 4.3 Site investigation ...... 24 4.3.1 Vegetation ...... 24 4.3.2 Animal species ...... 28 5 SENSITIVITY ASSESSMENT ...... 30 5.1 Recommendations ...... 30 5.1.1 High sensitive areas ...... 31 5.1.2 Moderate sensitive areas ...... 31 5.1.3 Low sensitive areas ...... 31 6 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT ...... 32 6.1 Identified Impacts ...... 32 6.2 Impact Assessment ...... 33 7 IMPACT STATEMENT, CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 39 7.1 Conclusions ...... 39 7.2 Recommendations for the proposed Peddie WEF ...... 39 7.2.1 Planning and Design ...... 39 7.2.2 Construction ...... 40 7.2.3 Operation ...... 40 7.2.4 Decommission ...... 40 7.3 Environmental statement and Opinion of the Specialist ...... 41 8 REFERENCES...... 42

Ecological Impact Assessment LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1. Locality map indicating the location of proposed Peddie WEF...... 5 Figure 1.2. Turbine placement for the proposed Peddie WEF...... 6 Figure 1.3. Illustration of the main components of a typical wind turbine. Note that the transformer in the figure above would normally be inside the tower (probably at the base)...... 7 Figure 1.4. The main dimensions for the foundation of a 3MW/100m high wind turbine...... 8 Figure 4.1 SANBI Vegetation map of the region shows the turbines (red points) fall into Great Fish Thicket vegetation type (AT11)...... 18 Figure 4.2. STEP Conservation Priority Map...... 19 Figure 4.3. ECBCP map of the surrounding area...... 20 Figure 4.4. SANBI Working for Wetland map of the surrounding area (Source: BGIS)...... 21 Figure 4.5. Current land-use for the Peddie Wind Energy Project site and surrounding area (Source: BGIS)...... 22 Figure 4.6. The topography of the Peddie Wind Energy Project Site (Source: Geology.com)...... 23 Figure 4.7. Average yearly climate for Peddie (Source: http://www.saexplorer.co.za/south- africa/climate/peddie_climate.asp) ...... 24 Figure 5.1 Sensitivity map for the proposed Peddie WEF development. Red=Highly sensitive areas; Orange=Medium Sensitive areas; Yellow=Low Sensitive areas...... 30

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1. Preliminary coordinates of the turbines for the proposed Peddie WEF...... 5 Table 2.1. Environmental legislation considered in the preparation of the Peddie WEF Ecological Report. .. 11 Table 3.1. Criteria used for the analysis of the sensitivity of the area ...... 14 Table 3.2. Significance Rating Table ...... 15 Table 3.3 Impact Severity Rating ...... 15 Table 3.4 Overall Significance Rating ...... 16 Table 4.1 Plant species identified in the study area...... 25 Table 4.2. SSC that may occur within the boundaries of the proposed development site...... 26 Table 6.1 Impact identified during the phases of the Peddie WEF...... 32 Table 6.2. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Planning and Design Phase ...... 34 Table 6.3. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Construction Phase ...... 35 Table 6.4. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Operation Phase ...... 37 Table 6.5. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Decommission Phase ...... 38 Table 6.6 Assessment of the No-Go option during all phases of the proposed Peddie WEF ...... 38

Ecological Impact Assessment

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project description

InnoWind South Africa (hereafter referred to as InnoWind) proposes to develop a wind power generation facility in Peddie, Ngqushwa Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The proposed project is planned to host 16 turbines, with a potential power output of 30-50 MW. The proposed development site is surrounded mainly by agricultural land, natural areas and road infrastructure.

The Peddie Wind Energy Facility (WEF) will be distributed over 12 continuous property parcels in the Peddie area. The proposed project, as with all projects of this nature being developed by Independent Power Producers (IPP’s), the electricity will be fed into the national ESKOM grid.

An ecological impact assessment was commissioned in order to predict and assess the significance of identified ecological impacts associated with the proposed activity.

1.2 Project locality

The proposed development site is located alongside the R345 in Peddie, between East London and Port Alfred (Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.1. Locality map indicating the location of proposed Peddie WEF.

Table 1.1 provides the coordinates of the preliminary location of each wind turbine.

Table 1.1. Preliminary coordinates of the turbines for the proposed Peddie WEF. Wind Turbine (WT) Coordinates Number S E 1 33o 6.021’ S 27o 5.496’E 2 33o 6.201’ S 27o 5.645’E 3 33o 5.657’ S 27o 5.700’E 4 33o 5.839’ S 27o 5.823’E 5 33o 6.000’ S 27o 6.109’E 6 33o 6.216’ S 27o 6.319’E 7 33o 6.471’ S 27o 6.354’E

Ecological Impact Assessment

Wind Turbine (WT) Coordinates Number S E 8 33o 6.712’ S 27o 6.443’E 9 33o 6.899’ S 27o 6.641’E 10 33o 7.113’ S 27o 6.781’E 11 33o 7.303’ S 27o 7.029’E 12 33o 7.511’ S 27o 7.178’E 13 33o 7.682’ S 27o 7.505’E 14 33o 5.348’ S 27o 6.099’E 15 33o 5.827’ S 27o 6.491’E 16 33o 6.051’ S 27o 6.677’E

1.3 Turbine placement and structure

The wind farm will host 16 turbines, each with a nominal power output of between 1.8 to 3 megawatts (MW). The total potential output of the wind farm will be between 30-50MW MW. Figure 1.2 below illustrated the proposed turbine placement.

Figure 1.2. Turbine placement for the proposed Peddie WEF.

The ultimate size of the wind turbines will depend on further technical assessments but will typically consist of rotor turbines (3 x 50m blades) with rotor diameters of around 80 - 120 m atop a 100-120 m high steel tower (see Figure 1.3).

For each turbine, a laydown area of approximately 3500m2 will be assessed in this report. The laydown area includes the turbine footprint (400m2), access road, crane platform and truck turning point.

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Figure 1.3. Illustration of the main components of a typical wind turbine. Note that the transformer in the figure above would normally be inside the tower (probably at the base).

The turbine will be placed on a concrete ‘platform’ (as shown in Figure 1.4). These platforms will be connected by access roads (if none existing) with the following requirements:-

 6m width / 3m clearance on each side  30cm pebble bed  Maximum 10% slope

Once the wind turbine is spinning, the platforms can be partially rehabilitated to reduce the footprint on the land.

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Figure 1.4. The main dimensions for the foundation of a 3MW/100m high wind turbine. * Note: Blue area is underground and green area is above ground.

1.4 Power lines, access roads and associated infrastructure

Other infrastructure associated with the proposed wind farm will be:

 Approximately 4 m wide internal access roads to each turbine;  Underground cables connecting each turbine to the next and ultimately to the substation;  A small building to house the control instrumentation and interconnection elements, as well as a storeroom for maintenance equipment;  Substation upgrade to cater for the in-feed, new 22/132 kV 20MVA transformer and feeder bays; and

1.5 Alternatives

No site alternative or technology alternatives are assessed.

1.5.1 No-Go alternative

It is mandatory to consider the no-go (no development) alternative in the EIA process. In context of this project it implies the consideration that the proposed Peddie WEF will not be constructed.

1.6 Objectives

 To provide a general description of the natural vegetation of the specific area to be developed, and adjacent areas that will be impacted.  To provide a general description of the indigenous fauna of the area, using a habitat approach and based on the natural vegetation of the site.  The identification of plant Species of Special Concern (SSC) and suitable species for rehabilitation are important outcomes.

1.7 Terms of Reference

The following terms of reference was used as a guideline for the objectives of this study:

 Identify and map the main vegetation types and plant communities;  Identify and record the main plant species that occur within the project area;  Identify and record plant species that might be suitable for rehabilitation.

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 Where possible identify any Red Data Book (RDB) flora species. In the absence of specific information on RDB species, adopt a habitat approach by identifying areas likely to contain RDB species;  Assess the extent of alien plant species over the site, and associated risks of alien invasion as a result of the wind energy project;  Identify any significant landscape features or rare or important vegetation/faunal associations such as seasonal wetlands, seeps or rocky areas that might support rare or important vegetation/faunal associations;  Identify the main animal communities associated with the plant communities (mammals, birds, fish (in the streams) and reptiles);  Describe the likelihood of other RDB species or species of conservation concern occurring in the vicinity. In the absence of specific information on RDB species, adopt a habitat approach by identifying areas likely to contain RDB species ;  Assess the condition of the site in terms of current or previous land uses.  Provide a general overview of the project area in terms of connectivity, corridors, rivers and streams and ecological viability in relation to the surrounding region;  Place the project area within the biodiversity context of the wider area (i.e. provide the “bigger picture”); and  Identify (as far as is possible from the data collected) the principal ecological processes evident within the project site and its relative importance in determining the biodiversity characteristics present.  An assessment of the potential direct and indirect impacts resulting from the proposed development and associated infrastructure, both on the footprint and the immediate surrounding area during construction and operation;  A detailed description of appropriate mitigation measures that can be adopted to reduce negative impacts for each phase of the project, where required.

1.8 Approach

The study site and surrounding areas were described using a two-phased approach. Firstly, a desktop assessment of the site was conducted in terms of current vegetation classifications and biodiversity programmes and plans. This included the consideration of:

 The South African Vegetation Map (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006)  Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme  Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan  DWA wetlands  DAFF (Forestry)

Further to the above, a site visit were conducted on the 10th November 2011 in order to assess the actual ecological state, current land-use, identify potential sensitive ecosystems and identify plant species associated with the proposed project activities. The site visits also served to inform potential impacts of the proposed project and how significantly it would impact on the surrounding ecological environment.

1.9 Limitations and assumptions

This report is based on currently available information and, as a result, the following limitations and assumptions are implicit:–

 The report is based on a project description taken from design specifications for the proposed Peddie WEF that have not yet been finalised, and which are likely to undergo a number of iterations and refinements before they can be regarded as definitive;  Descriptions of the natural and social environments are based on limited fieldwork and available literature.

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 SSC are difficult to find and difficult to identify, thus species described in this report do not comprise an exhaustive list. It is almost certain that additional SSC will be found during construction and operation of the development.  A “snapshot” sample of the ecology of the area was taken. Seasonal vegetation was not considered.

Coastal & Environmental Services 10 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment 2 RELEVANT LEGISLATION

The following legislation is relevant when considering ecological impacts identified during the Planning and Design, Construction and Operation Phase of the proposed Peddie WEF.

Table 2.1. Environmental legislation considered in the preparation of the Peddie WEF Ecological Report. Title of Environmental Date Implications for proposed Peddie WEF legislation, policy or guideline The Constitution Act 1996 Obligation to ensure that the proposed development will not (108 of 1996) result in pollution and ecological degradation; and Obligation to ensure that the proposed development is ecologically sustainable, while demonstrating economic and social development. The National 1998 The developer must apply the NEMA principles, the fair decision- Environmental making and conflict management procedures that are provided Management Act for in NEMA. (NEMA) (107 of The developer must the principles of Integrated Environmental 1998) Management and the consideration, investigation and assessment of the potential impact of existing and planned activities on the environment, socio-economic conditions; and the cultural heritage. The National 2004 The proposed development must conserve endangered Environment ecosystems and protect and promote biodiversity; Management: Must assess the impacts of the proposed development on Biodiversity Act (10 endangered ecosystems; of 2004) No protected species may be removed or damaged without a permit; The proposed site must be cleared of alien vegetation using appropriate means The National Forests 1998 If any protected trees in terms of this Act occur on site, the Act (84 of 1998) developer will require a licence from the DAFF to perform any of the above-listed activities. National Water Act 1998 Provides details of measures intended to ensure the (No. 36 of 1998) comprehensive protection of all water resources, including the water reserve and water quality.

National Policy

 South African Climate Change Green Paper.  South African Renewable Energy Policy.  Eastern Cape Renewable Energy Policy.  Eastern Cape Climate Change Policy.

Ecological Impact Assessment

3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

The aim of this assessment is to identify areas of ecological importance and to evaluate these in terms of their conservation importance. In order to do so, the ecological sensitivity of areas is assessed as well as the SSC that may occur in habitats present in the area.

To a large extent, the condition and sensitivity of the vegetation will also determine the presence of animal SSC and areas with high faunal biodiversity. It is for this reason that the assessment focuses on the vegetation aspects of the site, and includes only a small section on the fauna recorded from, and expected to live on the site.

It is not the aim of this study to produce a complete list of all animal and plant species occurring in the region, but rather to examine a representative sample. It is however, important to note areas of high sensitivity as well as SSC have been identified as far as possible, either from records from the site or a review of their habitat requirements and whether or not these habitats occur within the site. The aim of this study is to identify areas of high sensitivity and those that may be subject to significant impacts from the project. Aspects that would increase impact significance include:

 Presence of plant SSC.  Presence of animal SSC.  Vegetation types (which also constitute faunal habitats) of conservation concern.  Areas of high biodiversity.  The presence of process areas:  Ecological corridors  Wetlands (and rivers)  Complex topographical features (especially steep and rocky slopes that provide niche habitats for both plants and animals)

3.1 Species of special concern

3.1.1 Plant species of special concern

Data on the known distribution and conservation status for each potential SSC has to be obtained in order to develop a list of ‘Species of Concern’. These species are those that may be impacted significantly by the proposed activity. In general these will be species that are already known to be threatened or at risk, or those that have restricted distributions with a portion (at least 50%) of their known range falling within the study area. Species that are afforded special protection, notably those that are protected by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna) are also regarded as Species of Concern (see http://www.cites.org/). Efforts to provide assessments of conservation status (‘red list’ status) of individual species may provide additional valuable information on Species of Concern (see http://www.iucnredlist.org/).

A list of ‘Species of Possible Concern’ is derived from the species list by examining the relevant literature and databases and eliminating those that have a widespread distribution and which are not covered by CITES regulations or red listed. From this initial list, the status of ‘Confirmed Species of Concern’ may be conferred if the species is substantially restricted to the study area based on:  recent literature (last 10 years) that provides comprehensive information on the distribution range  examination of herbarium specimens available

Note that all uncertain identifications of species from the study area are regarded as Species of Possible Concern (SPC) until they can be collected or recollected and studied further. Similarly, all species that are believed to be currently un-described – i.e. new to science – are regarded to be of Possible Concern unless a researcher working on the group in question can confirm that although currently unpublished, the plant is in fact widespread.

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3.1.2 Faunal species of special concern

SSC in terms of the project area are defined as:  Threatened species: 1. Species listed in the Endangered or Vulnerable categories in the revised South African Red Data Books (SA RDB – amphibians, du Preez and Carruthers, 2009; reptiles, Branch 1988; birds, SA Birding, 2008; terrestrial mammals, Apps, 2000); and/or 2. Species included in other international lists (e.g., 2010 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals).  Definitions include:  Critically Endangered (CR) - A taxon is Critically Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Critically Endangered (see Section V), and it is therefore considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.  Endangered (EN) - A taxon is Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Endangered (see Section V), and it is therefore considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.  Vulnerable (VU) - A taxon is Vulnerable when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Vulnerable, and it is therefore considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild.  Near Threatened (NT) - A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future.  Sensitive species. Species not falling in the categories above but listed in:  Appendix 1 or 2 of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).  Endemic species. Species endemic to South Africa, and more specifically the Eastern Cape.

3.1.3 Sampling protocol

A sampling protocol was developed that would enable us to evaluate the existing interpretations of the vegetation of the study area, to improve on them if necessary, and to add detailed information on the plant communities present. The protocol took into account the accessibility of different parts of the area, and limitations such as the seasonality of the vegetation.

Vegetation communities were described according to the dominant species recorded from each type, and these mapped and assigned a sensitivity score.

3.2 Vegetation mapping

Vegetation was mapped from aerial photographs, satellite images and literature descriptions (eg. STEP, SANBI, ECBCP, DAFF) and related to data gathered on the ground.

3.3 Sensitivity assessment

This section of the report explains the approach to determining the ecological sensitivity of the study area on a broad scale. The approach identifies zones of high, medium and low sensitivity according to a system developed by CES and used in numerous proposed development studies. It must be noted that the sensitivity zonings in this study are based solely on ecological (primarily vegetation) characteristics and social and economic factors have not been taken into consideration. The sensitivity analysis described here is based on 10 criteria which are considered to be of importance in determining ecosystem and landscape sensitivity. The method predominantly involves identifying sensitive vegetation or habitat types, topography and land transformation (Table 3.1).

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The study area was zoned into areas which were homogenous in terms of vegetation types. Alternatively topography and drainage areas were used as boundaries for homogenous zones.

Although very simple, this method of analysis provides a good, yet conservative and precautionary assessment of the ecological sensitivity of an area.

Table 3.1. Criteria used for the analysis of the sensitivity of the area CRITERIA LOW SENSITIVITY MODERATE HIGH SENSITIVITY SENSITIVITY 1 Topography Level, or even Undulating; fairly steep Complex and uneven slopes with steep slopes 2 Vegetation - Extensive Restricted to a particular Restricted to a specific Extent or habitat region/zone locality / site type in the region 3 Conservation Well conserved Not well conserved, Not conserved - has a status of fauna/ independent of moderate conservation high conservation value flora or habitats conservation value value 4 SSC - Presence None, although No endangered or One or more and number occasional regional vulnerable species, endangered and endemics some indeterminate or vulnerable species, or rare endemics more than 2 endemics or rare species 5 Habitat Extensive areas of Reasonably extensive Limited areas of this fragmentation preferred habitat areas of preferred habitat, susceptible to leading to loss of present elsewhere in habitat elsewhere and fragmentation viable populations region not susceptible habitat susceptible to to fragmentation fragmentation 6 Biodiversity Low diversity, or Moderate diversity, and High species diversity, contribution species richness moderately high species complex plant and richness animal communities 7 Visibility of the site Site is hidden or barely Site is visible from some Site is visible from many or landscape from visible from any or a few vantage points or all angles or vantage other vantage vantage points with the but is not obtrusive or points. points exception in some very conspicuous. cases from the sea.

8 Erosion potential Very stable and an area Some possibility of Large possibility of or instability of the not subjected to erosion or change due to erosion, change to the region erosion. episodic events. site or destruction due to climatic or other factors. 9 Rehabilitation Site is easily There is some degree of Site is difficult to potential of the rehabilitated. difficulty in rehabilitation rehabilitate due to the area or region of the site. terrain, type of habitat or species required to reintroduce. 10 Disturbance due Site is very disturbed or There is some degree of The site is hardly or to human habitation degraded. disturbance of the site. very slightly impacted or other influences upon by human (Alien invasives) disturbance.

A map was drawn up and with the aid of a satellite image so that the sensitive regions and vegetation types could be plotted (see Chapter 5).

3.4 Impact assessment

3.4.1 Impact rating methodology

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To ensure a direct comparison between various specialist studies, a standard rating scale has been defined and was used to assess and quantify the identified impacts. This was necessary since impacts have a number of parameters that need to be assessed.

Table 3.2. Significance Rating Table Temporal Scale (The duration of the impact) Short term Less than 5 years (Many construction phase impacts are of a short duration). Medium term Between 5 and 20 years.

Long term Between 20 and 40 years (From a human perspective almost permanent).

Permanent Over 40 years or resulting in a permanent and lasting change that will always be there. Spatial Scale (The area in which any impact will have an affect) Individual Impacts affect an individual.

Localised Impacts affect a small area of a few hectares in extent. Often only a portion of the project area. Project Level Impacts affect the entire project area.

Surrounding Areas Impacts that affect the area surrounding the development

Municipal Impacts affect either BCM, or any towns within them.

Regional Impacts affect the wider district municipality or the province as a whole. National Impacts affect the entire country. International/Global Impacts affect other countries or have a global influence.

Will definitely occur Impacts will definitely occur.

Degree of Confidence or Certainty (The confidence with which one has predicted the significance of an impact) Definite More than 90% sure of a particular fact. Should have substantial supportive data. Probable Over 70% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of that impact occurring. Possible Only over 40% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of an impact occurring. Unsure Less than 40% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of an impact occurring.

Table 3.3 Impact Severity Rating Impact severity (The severity of negative impacts, or how beneficial positive impacts would be on a particular affected system or affected party) Very severe Very beneficial An irreversible and permanent change to the A permanent and very substantial benefit to

Coastal & Environmental Services 15 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment affected system(s) or party (ies) which cannot be the affected system(s) or party (ies), with no mitigated. For example the permanent loss of real alternative to achieving this benefit. For land. example the vast improvement of sewage effluent quality. Severe Beneficial Long term impacts on the affected system(s) or A long term impact and substantial benefit to party (ies) that could be mitigated. However, this the affected system(s) or party (ies). mitigation would be difficult, expensive or time Alternative ways of achieving this benefit consuming, or some combination of these. For would be difficult, expensive or time example, the clearing of forest vegetation. consuming, or some combination of these. For example an increase in the local economy. Moderately severe Moderately beneficial Medium to long term impacts on the affected A medium to long term impact of real benefit to system(s) or party (ies), which could be mitigated. the affected system(s) or party (ies). Other For example constructing the sewage treatment ways of optimising the beneficial effects are facility where there was vegetation with a low equally difficult, expensive and time conservation value. consuming (or some combination of these), as achieving them in this way. For example a ‘slight’ improvement in sewage effluent quality. Slight Slightly beneficial Medium or short term impacts on the affected A short to medium term impact and negligible system(s) or party (ies). Mitigation is very easy, benefit to the affected system(s) or party (ies). cheap, less time consuming or not necessary. For Other ways of optimising the beneficial effects example a temporary fluctuation in the water are easier, cheaper and quicker, or some table due to water abstraction. combination of these. No effect Don’t know/Can’t know The system(s) or party (ies) is not affected by the In certain cases it may not be possible to proposed development. determine the severity of an impact.

Table 3.4 Overall Significance Rating Overall Significance (The combination of all the above criteria as an overall significance) VERY HIGH NEGATIVE VERY BENEFICIAL These impacts would be considered by society as constituting a major and usually permanent change to the (natural and/or social) environment, and usually result in severe or very severe effects, or beneficial or very beneficial effects. Example: The loss of a species would be viewed by informed society as being of VERY HIGH significance. Example: The establishment of a large amount of infrastructure in a rural area, which previously had very few services, would be regarded by the affected parties as resulting in benefits with VERY HIGH significance. HIGH NEGATIVE BENEFICIAL These impacts will usually result in long term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as HIGH will need to be considered by society as constituting an important and usually long term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. Society would probably view these impacts in a serious light. Example: The loss of a diverse vegetation type, which is fairly common elsewhere, would have a significance rating of HIGH over the long term, as the area could be rehabilitated. Example: The change to soil conditions will impact the natural system, and the impact on affected parties (such as people growing crops in the soil) would be HIGH. MODERATE NEGATIVE SOME BENEFITS These impacts will usually result in medium to long term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as MODERATE will need to be considered by society as constituting a fairly important and usually medium term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. These impacts are real but not substantial. Example: The loss of a sparse, open vegetation type of low diversity may be regarded as

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MODERATELY significant. LOW NEGATIVE FEW BENEFITS These impacts will usually result in medium to short term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as LOW will need to be considered by the public and/or the specialist as constituting a fairly unimportant and usually short term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. These impacts are not substantial and are likely to have little real effect. Example: The temporary changes in the water table of a wetland habitat, as these systems are adapted to fluctuating water levels. Example: The increased earning potential of people employed as a result of a development would only result in benefits of LOW significance to people who live some distance away. NO SIGNIFICANCE There are no primary or secondary effects at all that are important to scientists or the public. Example: A change to the geology of a particular formation may be regarded as severe from a geological perspective, but is of NO significance in the overall context. DON’T KNOW In certain cases it may not be possible to determine the significance of an impact. For example, the primary or secondary impacts on the social or natural environment given the available information. Example: The effect of a particular development on people’s psychological perspective of the environment.

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4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

The Peddie WEF and surrounding areas were described using a two-phased approach. Firstly, a desktop assessment of the site was conducted in terms of current vegetation classifications and biodiversity programmes and plans, followed by a site visit in order to assess the actual ecological state, current land-use, identify potential sensitive ecosystems and identify plant species associated with the proposed project activities.

4.1 Literature review and Desktop information

Published literature on the ecology of the area was referenced in order to describe the study site in the context of the region and the Eastern Cape Province. The following documents/plans were considered:

 SANBI (South African National Biodiversity Institute) vegetation  STEP (Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme)  ECBCP (Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan)  SANBI Working for Wetlands  DAFF (Natural forest classification)  CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna)

4.1.1 SANBI Vegetation (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006)

The WEF layout is situated predominantly in a vegetation type named “Great Fish Thicket” (Figure 4.1 below).

Figure 4.1 SANBI Vegetation map of the region shows the turbines (red points) fall into Great Fish Thicket vegetation type (AT11).

Coastal & Environmental Services 18 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment Great Fish Thicket (Hoare et al., 2006) This Thicket type is found on steep slopes of deeply dissected rivers and supports short, medium and long thicket types where both woody trees and shrubs and the succulent components are well developed. Spinicent shrubs are common. Dominant species are Euphorbia bothae, E. tetragona and E. triangulates. The conservation status of Great Fish Thicket is “Least Threatened”.

4.1.2 Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Programme (STEP)

The STEP Conservation Priority Map classifies areas into a number of categories, based on plant and animal biodiversity of the planning domain, with emphasis on Thicket biomes (Pierce, 2003). The Conservation Priority map for the study area is presented in Figure 4.2. Most of the study area is classified as a STEP “Class IV” area. The land-use management guidelines for (Table taken from STEP) areas classified as Class IV (currently not vulnerable) requires that these areas can withstand a loss off or disturbance of natural areas through human activity or development.

Figure 4.2. STEP Conservation Priority Map.

4.1.3 Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP)

The ECBCP is a first attempt at detailed, low-level conservation mapping for land-use planning purposes in the Eastern Cape. Specifically, the aims of the Plan were to map critical biodiversity areas through a systematic conservation planning process. The current biodiversity plan includes the mapping of priority aquatic features, land-use pressures, critical biodiversity areas and develops guidelines for land and resource-use planning and decision-making.

The main outputs of the ECBCP are “critical biodiversity areas” or CBAs, which are allocated the following management categories:

1. CBA 1 = Maintain in a natural state 2. CBA 2 = Maintain in a near-natural state

Ecological Impact Assessment

The ECBCP maps CBAs based on extensive biological data and input from key stakeholders. The ECBCP, although mapped at a finer scale than the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (Driver et al., 2005) is still, for the large part, inaccurate and “course”. Therefore it is imperative that the status of the environment, for any proposed development MUST first be verified before the management recommendations associated with the ECBCP are considered (Berliner and Desmet, 2007). It is also important to note that in absence of any other biodiversity plan, the ECBCP has been adopted by the Provincial Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) as a strategic biodiversity plan for the Eastern Cape.

Figure 4.3. ECBCP map of the surrounding area.

The ECBCP map (Figure 4.3) for the area shows that the surrounding landform is categorised as a CBA 2 area, which requires that the land is maintained in a near natural state. As most of the surrounding areas are extremely degraded through years of cattle grazing, this status classification is not valid.

4.1.4 SANBI Working for Wetlands

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is currently in the process of compiling a National Wetland Inventory, which aims to map and classify (i.e. type) the major wetlands and water bodies in the country at a coarse spatial scale. A wetland classification system is required for application to the National Wetland Inventory, so that different types of wetlands can be distinguished for management and conservation purposes.

This classification system is intended to be used throughout the country for a number of different applications, largely with a view in facilitating common usage of terminology amongst wetland scientists and managers. However, at the same time, it is envisaged that further refinements to the classification system may be necessary in the future, to address problems that may be encountered in its application by a wide range of different users for a number of different purposes. As such, the classification system presented in this report should not be seen as the final product but is being continuously updated.

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Figure 4.4. SANBI Working for Wetland map of the surrounding area (Source: BGIS).

The following wetland types were identified in the area

Slope Seep – a wetland area located on (gently to steeply) sloping land, which is dominated by the colluvial, unidirectional movement of material down-slope. Water inputs are primarily from groundwater or precipitation that enters the wetland from an up-slope direction in the form of subsurface flow.

Slope Depression - a landform with closed elevation contours that increases in depth form the perimeter to a central area of greatest depth, and within which water typically accumulates. Dominant water sources are precipitation, ground water discharge, interflow and (diffuse or concentrated) overland flow.

The following issues were identified in this section:

ISSUES IDENTIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS IMPACT Development takes place in a As most of the affected and LOW sensitive area as described in surrounding areas are degraded the ECBCP. through overgrazing, this status classification is not valid. Loss of indigenous vegetation Development in Great Fish Thicket MODERATE (Great Fish Thicket) areas will require specific mitigation to reduce the impact on the vegetation. Permits from DAFF will be required before construction. Revegetation of impacted areas must be undertaken after decommissioning of the Peddie WEF. Soil erosion and sedimentation Access roads should avoid crossing HIGH wetlands, drainage lines and rivers. Any development within 32m of any water body will require authorisation

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from DWA. Invasion of alien species An alien removal plan must be MODERATE implemented and run during construction

4.2 Current land-use and general state of environment

The Peddie WEF and neighbouring properties in the area are currently engaged with informal livestock farming with some small cultivated crop fields surrounding the site (see Figure 4.5). A small village called Bongweni is situated to the southwest of the study site.

Figure 4.5. Current land-use for the Peddie Wind Energy Project site and surrounding area (Source: BGIS).

4.2.1 Topography

The Eastern Cape Province contains a wide variety of landscapes, from the stark Karoo (the semi- desert region of the central interior) to mountain ranges and gentle hills rolling down to the sea. The climate and topography give rise to the great diversity of vegetation types and habitats found in the region.

The proposed development site consists of a central ridge with a large drainage area on either side. These drainage areas come together at the bottom of the ridge from where it drains in a general easterly direction (Figure 4.6).

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Figure 4.6. The topography of the Peddie Wind Energy Project Site (Source: Geology.com).

4.2.2 Geology and soils

The proposed Peddie WEF is situated within the Beaufort Group, which is situated within the Karoo Supergroup. The Karoo Supergroup forms the vast majority of the geology of South Africa, with the Beaufort Group forming the most dominant subgroup. The Beaufort Group consists primarily of mudstones and sandstones which are made up of the Tarkastad and Adelaide subgroups (Lurie 2008). The Beaufort Group also contains several formations including the Molteno Formation (mainly coarse sandstones and shale), the Elliot Formation (mainly red coloured argillaceous succession), the Clarens Formation (consisting of fine-grained sandstone), the Drakensberg Group (basaltic lavas) and the Labombo Group (acidic volcanics overlying basalts) (Lurie 2008).

4.2.3 Climate

Due to the location of the study area at the confluence of two climatic regimes, namely temperate and subtropical, the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa has a complex climate. There are wide variations in temperature, rainfall and wind patterns, mainly as a result of movements of air masses, altitude, mountain orientation and the proximity of the Indian Ocean.

Peddie occurs in a summer rainfall area, with the majority of its rainfall occurring between October and April. The lowest average monthly rainfall is in July (approximately 13 mm) while the highest occurs in March, with an average of 61mm (Figure 4.7). The average rainfall per year for Peddie is 412 mm (sa explorer 2011). The coldest months occur from May to October, with the average midday temperature reaching its lowest at 20°C in July. The highest temperatures occur in summer, with the maximum reached in February at an average of 26.8°C. Night-time temperatures show similar variation, with the coldest recorded in July (7.6°C) and the warmest in February (16°C) (Figure 4.7) (sa explorer, 2011).

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Figure 4.7. Average yearly climate for Peddie (Source: http://www.saexplorer.co.za/south- africa/climate/peddie_climate.asp)

The following issues were identified in this section:

ISSUES IDENTIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS IMPACT Soil erosion and sedimentation No access roads must traverse high HIGH sensitive areas without authorisation from DWA. No turbines must be placed in high sensitive areas without authorisation from DWA. Access roads should not exceed 6m in width and must incorporate storm water levees. An Erosion Action Plan must be developed and implemented.

4.3 Site investigation

4.3.1 Vegetation

The area surrounding the Peddie WEF consists of degraded grassland situated on flat areas interspersed with dense thicket vegetation in and around the surrounding drainage lines (Plate 4.1). A general vegetation density increase was also observed from south to north and west to east with the highest density of vegetation observed surrounding turbine 12 (Plate 4.1).

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Plate 4.1. An aerial photo shows denser vegetation in and immediately surrounding drainage lines (Source: Google earth).

The flat plains are degraded and consist mostly of grassveld interspersed with individual Acacia natalitia trees.

Although SANBI describes the vegetation type as Great Fish thicket in their Vegetation classification (Mucina & Ruterford; 2005), the site investigation showed that the area was heavily degraded, with natural thicket only appearing in and around the surrounding drainage lines. The area probably became degraded through domestic animal grazing practises.

The degraded grassland typically consisted of graminoids and herbaceous shrubs. A few geophytic species were observed, but undetected species, not flowering at the time nor producing above- ground stems or leaves, are expected to occur.

The plant species identified have been grouped in Table 4.1 below.

Table 4.1 Plant species identified in the study area. Graminoids Aristida congesta Cynodon imcompletus Digitaria eriantha Eragrostis obtuse Panicum species Themeda triandra Eragrostis species Diospyros dichrophylla Dovyalis zeyheri Acacia natalensis Selago luxurians Berkheya sp. Helichrysum spp. Gazania sp.

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Asphalathus sp. Cassine peragua Putterlickia pyracantha Herbs and Geophytes Cyanotis speciosa Hypoestes aristata Salvia scabra Hibiscus pusillus Crassula expanza Senecio radicans Alien invasive Opunta ficus-indica (pricly pear) Species only found in the drainage line Euphorbia triangularis Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme Euclea sp. Carissa bispinosa

Plant SSC

Potential SSC include all those plants listed in terms of the IUCN, CITES and both national and provincial legislation that may occur in the area of study. The list of SSC includes over 133 species which are listed individually by Victor and Dold (2003), the IUCN red data list, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the Forests Act and the Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance (PNCO) 16 of 1974 for the Eastern Cape. In addition, the PNCO lists eight plant families and six plant genera that are afforded blanket protection throughout the province. Some examples of possible SSC are given in Table 3.1.

Table 4.2. SSC that may occur within the boundaries of the proposed development site. Species Protection Status Euryops gracilipes IUCN Vulnerable Haworthia aungustifolia var. pauciflora PNCO 4 Protected Haworthia cummingii PNCO 4 Protected Haworthia cymbiformis var. incurvula PNCO 4 Protected Haworthia cymbiformis var. ramose PNCO 4 Protected Delosperma ecklonii IUCN Rare Tetradenia barberae IUCN Rare Boscia albitruscia Protected Trees Protected Aloe tenuior PNCO Protected Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme Protected Trees Protected

Discussion

As most of the proposed turbines are situated on degraded vegetation that consists of common grasses and non-concerned geophytes, the ECBCP recommendation of managing it in a near natural state can be disregarded. Mitigation will however be required if any development footprint (temporary or permanent) will be situated in the drainage line thicket vegetation (Great Fish Thicket). It is the recommendation of the Ecological Specialist that these areas are avoided and that there is no development impact on this drainage line thicket vegetation. If unavoidable, the relevant permits must be obtained from DAFF (Forestry).

If any of the abovementioned SSC is found during the Construction Phase of the Peddie WEF, the Environmental Control Officer (ECO) and Construction Manager (CM) must be notified immediately to determine the way forward. All SSC must be identified and every effort must be made to rescue and relocate them.

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Alien vegetation must be managed onsite during both the Construction and Operation phases through the development of an Alien Vegetation Management Plan.

The area must be rehabilitated after construction as well as in the Decommissioning phase through the development of a Site Rehabilitation and Restoration Plan.

Below is a photo sequence showing the vegetation types in the surrounding area:

Showing the distinct difference in vegetation between the flat lying grassveld and the steeper drainage systems.

Typical thicket vegetation found in and around the surrounding drainage systems.

Typical denser vegetation found around the Turbine 12 site in the north. The dominant tree in the area is identified as Acacia natalitia.

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4.3.2 Animal species

Lack of pristine terrestrial habitat in the Peddie area, particularly due to the loss of natural vegetation as a result of infestation by alien invasive species as well as urban development and hunting, has impacted on terrestrial fauna. Despite this, a few small and medium size mammals may occur in the Peddie are (small antelope, moles wild cats etc.). Reptiles and amphibians occurring in the area include many species of frogs, tortoises and terrapins, lizards and snakes.

Amphibians

Over one hundred species of reptiles and amphibians occur on the Eastern and Southern Cape Coastal Belt (Branch, 1998). Most are generalists, and represent the transition from temperate to tropical fauna, some montane forms occur in the Cape Fold Mountains (Branch 1998).

Reptiles

The Eastern Cape is home to 133 reptile species including 21 snakes, 27 lizards and eight chelonians (tortoises and turtles) (Branch, 1998). Five species of tortoises occur in the Eastern Cape, three of which occur within the coastal belt. The Eastern Cape has the richest diversity of tortoises in the world. No reptiles were observed onsite.

Birds

A brief description of bird species is provided here. However, birds are extensively covered in the Avifauna specialist report.

Several birds of conservation importance occur in Grid Reference 3327, these include: 4 “Vulnerable”, and 6 “Near Threatened” species (IUCN 2008). Four SSC which are rated as “Vulnerable” occur in the general area and hence may occur in the study area, these include: Denham’s Bustard, Martial Eagle, African Finfoot and White-Bellied Korhaan.

According to BirdLife International the proposed development site does not form part of any important bird areas.

Mammals

No large mammals were observed onsite.

Terrestrial Invertebrates

According to the most recent IUCN red data list there are no members of the Athropoda (insects arachnids and crustaceans) Phylum in the area that can be defined as SSC.

Faunal SSC

The following species may occur within the cadastral boundary of the proposed development site and are of conservation concern:

Reptiles:

 Endemic and Endangered  Albany dwarf adder (Bitis albanica)  IUCN Red Data Species  Southern dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion ventrale)  Cape girdled lizard (Cordylus cordylus)  Leopard or Mountain Tortoise (Geochelone pardalis),

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 Angulate Tortoise (Chersina angulata), and  Parrot-beaked tortoise (Homopus areolatus)  Yellow-bellied house snake (Lamprophis fuscus)

Mammals:

 Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes)  Duthie’s golden mole (Chlorotalpa duthieae)  Straw-coloured fruit bat (Eidolon helvum)  Schreiber's long-fingered bat (Miniopterus schreibersi)

The following issues were identified in this section:

ISSUES IDENTIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS IMPACT Loss of plant SSC The development area must be HIGH surveyed prior to construction in order to locate and transplant all SSC them into the neighbouring undeveloped environment. A Plant Rescue & Protection Plan must be implemented and managed. Disturbance to surrounding Construction activities must be MODERATE wildlife and fauna limited to the designated development footprint. Poaching of wild animal during No poaching of any wild animals will HIGH construction be allowed. Loss of animal SSC The development area must be HIGH surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and capture any SSC and relocate them.

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5 SENSITIVITY ASSESSMENT

A site assessment was conducted in order to confirm desktop information and describe the current ecological integrity of the site at a more detailed level. A further objective is to assist in impact identification and assessment. This section discusses potential sensitive ecosystems.

A sensitivity map was developed based on desktop and site information gathered, and was classified into areas of high, low and medium sensitivity (Figure 5.1).  Areas of high sensitivity include process areas such as rivers, wetlands and streams that are important for ecosystem functioning including surface and ground water as well as animal and plant dispersal.  Medium sensitivity is given to areas that have high species richness and are not hugely impacted by current land use and are not degraded. Medium sensitivity areas also contain the majority of SSC found in the area. Medium sensitivity is also given to areas that, despite being somewhat degraded, still provide a valuable contribution to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning as they are pristine or semi-pristine and have a relatively high species richness, these areas may also contain SSC.  Low sensitivity is given to areas that are highly impacted by current land use and thus highly degraded and provide limited value to the ecosystem and are not likely to harbour any SSC.

Figure 5.1 Sensitivity map for the proposed Peddie WEF development. Red=Highly sensitive areas; Orange=Medium Sensitive areas; Yellow=Low Sensitive areas.

5.1 Recommendations

Based on the level of sensitivity of the affected area indicated in Figure 5.1, mitigations are recommended to reduce impacts of the proposed new Peddie WEF on the surrounding natural environment.

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5.1.1 High sensitive areas

All water bodies are considered as “high sensitive”, (coloured red in Figure 5.1) and as such are considered as “No-Go Areas”. No further loss of natural areas and no further impacts must be allowed in these areas. If unavoidable, authorisation must be obtained from the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) for any construction taking place inside or within 32 meters of any water body including wetlands.

5.1.2 Moderate sensitive areas

These areas include all pristine (undisturbed) and semi-pristine (low level of disturbance) thicket vegetation (coloured orange in Figure 5.1). Depending on constraints (such as concentrations of protected species, or infra-structure limitations), these areas can withstand a limited loss of, or disturbance to, natural areas. If possible, development footprints should be relocated to portions which have already undergone disturbance or impacts (low sensitive areas). If this is not possible, the development footprint must be kept at a minimum.

A botanical specialist must do a walk-through after micro-siting (and prior to construction) as most of the SSC are concentrated in moderate sensitive areas. The specialist must identify and recommend mitigations on any SSC found within the proposed development footprint. Every effort must be made to rescue all impacted SSC.

5.1.3 Low sensitive areas

These areas are considered as severely disturbed or modified by human activities, including cultivation, urban development and rural settlements, and severe overgrazing. These areas are suitable for development and will only require low level mitigations.

A botanical specialist must do a walk-through after micro-siting (and prior to construction) as there is a possibility of finding SSC in these areas.

The following issues were identified in this section:

ISSUES IDENTIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS IMPACT Loss of indigenous vegetation An ECO must monitor construction MODERATE in high and moderate sensitive areas Disturbance of sensitive areas No development to take place in any HIGH high sensitive areas. If unavoidable, authorisation from DWA is required. Al High and medium sensitive areas must be rehabilitated by careful removal of any opportunistic invasive vegetation. Loss of highly and moderate Decommission activities must be MODERATE sensitive vegetation (Great Fish limited to the designated Thicket) during the development footprint. decommissioning phase of the Exposed soil must be re-vegetated Peddie WEF with local vegetation. Poor rehabilitation of moderate Al impacted areas must be HIGH and high sensitive areas rehabilitated after construction and during decommissioning

Coastal & Environmental Services 31 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment 6 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT

6.1 Identified Impacts

Ecological impacts were identified during the Planning and Design, Construction and Operation Phase of the proposed Peddie WEF and are described below. These included the consideration of direct, indirect and cumulative impacts that may occur.

Table 6.1 Impact identified during the phases of the Peddie WEF. Phase Issue Nature of Description of Impact Impact Development Direct As most of the affected and surrounding takes place in a areas are degraded through overgrazing, sensitive area as this status classification is not valid. described in the ECBCP Direct Unnecessary damage and disturbance to Loss of natural vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due indigenous to poor planning and placement of vegetation infrastructure. Planning & Direct When access roads required for maintaining Design and servicing wind turbines run through Soil erosion and drainage lines, thus altering water flow and sedimentation resulting in soil erosion and downstream sedimentation in the areas surrounding the Peddie WEF. Indirect Erosion and degradation of water-courses and associated habitats due to poor Disturbance of planning and layout design (i.e. sensitive area inappropriate utilisation of sensitive aquatic systems). Direct Unnecessary damage and disturbance to natural vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due to uncontrolled construction activities beyond the required footprint of wind Loss of turbines and associated access vegetation during infrastructure construction Indirect Inadvertent or excessive damage and loss of vegetation beyond the Peddie WEF development footprint Direct Loss of plant SSC Construction Direct During construction vehicular movement, Disturbance to noise and habitat destruction will disturb surrounding animals in the area wildlife and Direct Poaching of wild animals during construction fauna Direct Loss of animal SSC Indirect The removal of existing natural vegetation creates ‘open’ habitats that will favours the Invasion of alien establishment of undesirable species in the species area that are typically very difficult to eradicate and may pose a threat to neighbouring ecosystems. Direct, Access roads are necessary in order to Soil erosion and Operation indirect and maintain and service turbines however, they sedimentation cumulative still constitute a disturbance as vegetation

Ecological Impact Assessment

Phase Issue Nature of Description of Impact Impact may need to be cleared to facilitate access. During rainfall season, these access roads may initiate erosion events. Invasion of alien Allowing invading species to expand will species lead to a large scale alien invasion. Direct Unnecessary damage and disturbance to natural vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due Loss of to uncontrolled activities outside of the Decommission vegetation during Peddie WEF development footprint. decommissioning Indirect Poor rehabilitation may result in limited re- vegetation and long-term ecological damage

The following issue mentioned in Table 6.1 are considered as VERY LOW and will not be assessed further:

Development Direct As most of the affected and surrounding takes place in a areas are degraded through overgrazing, Planning & sensitive area as this status classification is not valid. Design described in the ECBCP

6.2 Impact Assessment

The impacts identified in Section 6.1 are assessed in terms of the criteria described in Section 3.4 and are summarised in the tables below (Table 6.2 – 6.5).

Coastal & Environmental Services 33 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment Table 6.2. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Planning and Design Phase PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY SPATIAL TEMPORAL CERTAINTY SEVERITY/ SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE IMPACTS SCALE SCALE SCALE BENEFICIAL PRE- POST- (DURATION) (LIKELIHOOD) SCALE MITIGATION MITIGATION Issue: Loss of indigenous vegetation Unnecessary damage and disturbance to natural Localised Short-term Definite Moderately MODERATE  An Environmental Control Officer LOW vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due to poor planning severe (ECO) must be appointed to and placement of infrastructure. oversee construction activities  All SSC, protected or vulnerable must be avoided or transplanted  Rehabilitation with grasses found on site, in addition to local shade- loving grasses, must be undertaken  All appropriate permits must be obtained from DAFF and DEDEAT for removal and/or destruction of protected species. Copies of the permits must be forwarded to DEA and kept onsite. Issue: Soil erosion and sedimentation When access road tracks required for maintaining Localised Long-term Probable Severe HIGH  No access road may traverse MODERATE and servicing wind turbines, run through drainage drainage lines, streams or river lines, thus altering system flow and resulting in soil beds without authorisation from erosion and downstream sedimentation. necessary authorities.  No placement of turbines in any water body.  If any construction footprint takes place inside or within 32 meters of any water body, authorisation from DWA must be obtained.  Access roads should not exceed 10 metres in width and should incorporate storm water levees to reduce the likelihood of erosion.  Develop and implement an Erosion Action Programme. Issue: Disturbance of sensitive area Erosion and degradation of water-courses and Study area Long-term Possible Moderately HIGH  Ensure that a buffer zone of 32 LOW associated habitats due to poor planning and layout severe metres is maintained. No design (i.e. inappropriate utilisation of sensitive development activities may occur aquatic systems) within this area.  If any construction footprint takes place inside or within 32 meters of any water body, authorisation from DWA must be obtained.  Water courses should be MODERATE rehabilitated by careful removal of BENEFICIAL the alien invasive vegetation.

Ecological Impact Assessment Table 6.3. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Construction Phase CONSTRUCTION PHASE GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY SPATIAL TEMPORAL CERTAINTY SEVERITY/ SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE IMPACTS SCALE SCALE SCALE BENEFICIAL PRE- POST- (DURATION) (LIKELIHOOD) SCALE MITIGATION MITIGATION Issue: Loss of vegetation during construction Unnecessary damage and disturbance to natural Localised Short-term Probable Moderately MODERATE  Construction activities must be LOW vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due to uncontrolled severe limited to the designated construction activities beyond the required footprint development footprint. i.e. of wind turbines and associated access roads and construction materials, vehicular infrastructure storage, construction camps etc, should occur in a footprint which will ultimately be developed as part of the facility.  Actual installation should be undertaken with minimal disturbance to areas in the immediate vicinity as successful vegetation recovery will depend on the remaining vegetation.  Ensure that roads on slopes incorporate storm water diversion.  Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and re- vegetation must be undertaken Inadvertent or excessive damage and loss of Study area Short-term Possible Severe MODERATE  Construction activities must be LOW vegetation beyond the development footprint demarcated and vegetation clearing and top soil removal (if required) limited to these areas. Loss of plant SSC Localised Permanent Possible Severe HIGH  The development area must be LOW surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate SSC and transplant them into the neighbouring undeveloped environment.  A Plant Rescue & Protection Plan must be implemented and managed by a vegetation specialist familiar with the site in consultation with the appointed ECO. Issue: Disturbance to surrounding wildlife and fauna During construction vehicular movement, noise and Localised Short-term Probable Moderately MODERATE  Construction activities must be MODERATE habitat destruction will disturb animals in the area severe limited to the designated development footprint. Poaching of wild animals during construction Localised Short-term Possible Severe HIGH  No poaching of any wild animals LOW will be allowed. Loss of animal SSC Localised Permanent Possible Severe HIGH  The development area must be LOW surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and capture any SSC and relocate them. Issue: Invasion of alien species The removal of existing natural vegetation creates Project level Long-term Probable Moderately MODERATE  An alien removal plan must be LOW ‘open’ habitats that will favours the establishment of severe implemented and run during the undesirable species in the area that are typically very construction phase. The developer difficult to eradicate and may pose a threat to is only responsible for clearing

Ecological Impact Assessment neighbouring ecosystems. disturbed areas (result of development) of alien vegetationl

Coastal & Environmental Services 36 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment Table 6.4. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Operation Phase OPERATION PHASE GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY SPATIAL TEMPORAL CERTAINTY SEVERITY/ SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE IMPACTS SCALE SCALE SCALE BENEFICIAL PRE- POST- (DURATION) (LIKELIHOOD) SCALE MITIGATION MITIGATION Issue: Soil erosion and sedimentation Access roads are necessary in order to maintain and Localised, Long-term Probable Severe HIGH  No access road may traverse MODERATE service turbines however, they still constitute a study area drainage lines, streams or river disturbance as vegetation may need to be cleared to and beds without appropriate facilitate access. During rainfall season, these downstream authorisation from necessary access roads may initiate erosion events. authorities.  No placement of turbines in any water body.  Service roads should not exceed 4 metres in width and should incorporate storm water levees to reduce the likelihood of erosion.  Develop and implement an Erosion Action Programme. Issue: Invasion of alien species Allowing invading species to expand will lead to a Project level Long-term Probable Moderately MODERATE  A comprehensive habitat LOW large scale alien invasion. severe rehabilitation plan must be developed for the site. Rehabilitation must start immediately after construction ended.  The Alien Removal Plan implemented during the construction phase must be managed throughout the operational phase.

Ecological Impact Assessment

Table 6.5. Assessment and mitigation of impacts identified in the Decommission Phase CONSTRUCTION PHASE GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY SPATIAL TEMPORAL CERTAINTY SEVERITY/ SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE IMPACTS SCALE SCALE SCALE BENEFICIAL PRE- POST- (DURATION) (LIKELIHOOD) SCALE MITIGATION MITIGATION Issue: Loss of vegetation during decommissioning of the Peddie wind energy site Unnecessary damage and disturbance to natural Localised Short-term Probable Moderately MODERATE  Decommission activities must be LOW vegetation (Great Fish Thicket) due to uncontrolled severe limited to the designated activities outside of the development footprint. development footprint.  Actual removal of the turbines should be undertaken with minimal disturbance to areas in the immediate vicinity as successful vegetation recovery will depend on the remaining vegetation.  Re-vegetation of exposed soil must be undertaken. Poor rehabilitation may result in limited re-vegetation Study area Long-term Possible Severe HIGH  Rehabilitation must be undertaken LOW and long-term ecological damage in the following phases:  Applying topsoil and re-landscaping the area to its original condition if modified  Stabilising the soil with synthetic materials or a fast growing plant species  Re-vegetate with plants grown from seed or cuttings from the surrounding vegetation.

Table 6.6 Assessment of the No-Go alternative during all phases of the proposed Peddie WEF NO-GO OPTION Not proceeding with the proposed Peddie WEF will mean that none of the negative impacts will take place. Furthermore it may also result in none of the positive impacts of renewable energy over coal fired or nuclear energy being realised from this area.

Coastal & Environmental Services 38 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment 7 IMPACT STATEMENT, CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 Conclusions

InnoWind South Africa (hereafter referred to as InnoWind) proposes to develop a wind power generation facility in Peddie, Ngqushwa Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The proposed project is planned to host 16 turbines, with a potential power output of 30-50 MW. The proposed development site is surrounded mainly by agricultural land, natural areas and road infrastructure.

The Peddie WEF will be distributed over 12 adjacent property parcels in the Peddie area. The proposed project, as with all projects of this nature being developed by Independent Power Producers (IPP’s), the electricity will be fed into the national ESKOM grid.

The No-go alternative would mean abandoning the proposed development and as such there will be no negative impact on the environment as identified in Section 6. Furthermore it may also result in none of the positive impacts of renewable energy over coal fired or nuclear energy being realised from this area.

No excessive ecological impacts associated with the Peddie WEF (Table 7.1) were identified, but it must be emphasised that an Erosion Action Programme, Rehabilitation Plan, Alien Removal Plan, and a Plant Rescue & Protection Plan must be developed prior to construction.

Table 7.1 Assessment of pre- and post-mitigation impact significance. PRE-MITIGATION POST-MITIGATION

LOW MODERATE HIGH LOW MODERATE HIGH

Planning and 1 1 2 3 1 0 Design

Construction 0 4 3 6 1 0

Operation 0 1 1 1 1 0

Decommission 0 1 1 2 0 0

TOTAL 1 7 7 12 3 0

The post-mitigation MODERATE impacts incurred an extra beneficial assessment. By remaining clear of the 32 metre buffer around aquatic systems and removing alien invasive plant species, the impact of encroaching on the aquatic systems is mitigated and a potential benefit is achieved.

7.2 Recommendations for the proposed Peddie WEF

All the mitigation measures provided below are to be implemented in the Planning and Design, Construction, Operation and Decommissioning Phases of the proposed Peddie WEF.

7.2.1 Planning and Design

 An ECO must be appointed to oversee construction activities.  All SSC, protected or vulnerable must be avoided or transplanted.  Rehabilitation with grasses found on site, in addition to local shade-loving grasses, must be undertaken.  All appropriate permits must be obtained from DAFF and DEDEAT for removal and/or destruction of protected species. Copies of the permits must be forwarded to DEA

Ecological Impact Assessment

 No access roads may traverse drainage lines, streams or river beds.  No placement of turbines in any water body.  If any construction footprint takes place inside or within 32 meters of any water body, authorisation from DWA must be obtained.  Access roads should not exceed 4 metres in width and should incorporate storm water levees to reduce the likelihood of erosion.  Develop and implement an Erosion Action Programme.  Water courses should be rehabilitated by careful removal of the alien invasive vegetation.

7.2.2 Construction

 Construction activities must be limited to the designated development footprint. i.e. construction materials, vehicular storage, construction camps etc, should occur in a footprint which will ultimately be developed as part of the facility.  Actual installation should be undertaken with minimal disturbance to vegetation areas in the immediate vicinity as successful vegetation recovery will depend on the remaining vegetation.  Ensure that roads on slopes incorporate storm water diversion.  Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and re- vegetation must be undertaken.  Construction activities must be demarcated and vegetation clearing and top soil removal (if required) limited to these areas.  The development area must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate SSC and transplant them into the neighbouring undeveloped environment.  A Plant Rescue & Protection Plan must be implemented and managed by a vegetation specialist familiar with the site in consultation with the appointed ECO.  Construction activities must be limited to the designated development footprint.  No poaching of any wild animals will be allowed.  The development area must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and capture any SSC and relocate them.  An Alien Removal Plan must be implemented and run during the construction phase.

7.2.3 Operation

 No access road may traverse drainage lines, streams or river beds.  No placement of turbines in any water body.  Service roads should not exceed 4 metres in width and should incorporate stormwater levees to reduce the likelihood of erosion.  Develop and implement an Erosion Action Programme.  A comprehensive habitat rehabilitation plan must be developed for the site. Rehabilitation must start immediately after construction ended.  The Alien Removal Plan implemented during the construction phase must be managed throughout the operational phase.

7.2.4 Decommission

 Decommission activities must be limited to the designated development footprint.  Actual removal of the turbines should be undertaken with minimal disturbance to areas in the immediate vicinity as successful vegetation recovery will depend on the remaining vegetation.  Re-vegetation of exposed soil must be undertaken.  Rehabilitation must be undertaken in the following phases:  Applying topsoil and re-landscaping the area to its original condition if modified  Stabilising the soil with synthetic materials or a fast growing plant species  Re-vegetate with plants grown from seed or cuttings from the surrounding vegetation.

Coastal & Environmental Services 40 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment

7.3 Environmental statement and Opinion of the Specialist

The ecological impacts of all the aspects of the proposed Peddie WEF were considered and deemed to be ecological acceptable, provided that the mitigation measures provided in this report are implemented.

Coastal & Environmental Services 41 Peddie WEF Project Ecological Impact Assessment

8 REFERENCES

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National Environmental Management Act (No 107 of 1998) as amended in 2008

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No 10 of 2004)

National Water Act (No 36 of 1998)

Pierce, S.M. 2003. The STEP Handbook. Integrating the natural environment into land use decisions at the municipal level: towards sustainable development. Terrestrial Ecology Research Unit Report No. 47. University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

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Global Amphibian Assessment – geographic details, 2008. Available at: http://www.iucnredlist.org/documents/amphibians/gaa_country_totals_2008.xls, accessed 28/03/2011. http://www.saexplorer.co.za/south-africa/climate/peddie-climate.asp. Accessed 28/06/2012.

IUCN (2009). Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN Species Survival Commission, Cambridge Available: http://www.iucnredlist.org/ (Accessed 12/10/2009).

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