Appendix C10 Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report

Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for the proposed Bulbulla Integrated Agro-Industrial Park (IAIP) and Shashemene Rural transformation Centre (RTC)

Prepared by- Kahsay Gebretensae

January 2018

Table of contents Page

1. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………..1

2. Project Area Baselines……………………………………………………………….1

2.1. Physical Conditions.…………………………………………………………..1

i. Location and Topography………………………………………………………1

ii. Climate …………………………………………………………………………….2

2.2. Flora and Fauna …………………………………………………………….…2

i. Flora …………………………………………………………………………….....2

ii. Fauna ………………………………………………………………………………3

iii. Species of Conservation Concern ……………………………………………….4

2.3. Protected and Non Protected Biodiversity Sites..………………………….4

i. Protected Areas……………………………………………………………………..4

ii. Wetlands………………………………………………………………………….....9

3 Shashemene RTC …………………………………………………………………10 4 Impact Assessment and Mitigation for Bulbulla IAIP and Shashemene RTC…………………………………………………………………....11 i) Assessment Methodology ……………………………………………………….11 ii) Bulbulla IAIP - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures……………..12 iii) Shashemene RTC - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures………….17 iv) Residual Impacts and Conclusion………………………………………………21 5 References/ Bibliography…………………………………………………………22 6 Annexes…………………………………………………………………………...... 24

Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for the proposed Bulbulla Integrated Agro-Industrial Park (IAIP) and Shashemene Rural transformation Centre (RTC)

1. Introduction This section provides a description of the existing biodiversity components and associated key features which include typical flora and fauna, protected areas and non protected sensitive resources that are found inside and within the vicinity of the project sites. The baseline conditions within the proposed project areas have been determined through desk-based reviews of available information, field surveys and consultations with concerned authorities.

2. Project Area Baselines 2.1. Physical Conditions i. Location and Topography The proposed Bulbulla IAIP covers 263 hectares (ha) of an area. The site is located approximately 200 km South of Addis Ababa, immediately adjacent to the main highway connecting Addis Ababa and Hawassa. It is situated in the Adamitulu-Jido- Kombolcha wereda of the East Shewa Zone of the Oromia Regional State, at the geographic UTM 37N 458642.052 up to 460744.7941 Easting and UTM 37 N 856019.4476 - 858304.6467 Northing (Fig. 1)’.

Fig. 1: Location of Bulbulla IAIP

The IAIP will include open area production zones, controlled environment growing, precision farming, knowledge hubs and research facilities, rural hubs, agri-infrastructure, collection centres, primary processing hubs, social infrastructure and agri-marketing infrastructure, and will be served by a proposed network of rural transformation centres (RTCs), one of which is located at Shashemene.

ETHIOPIA The Bulbulla IAIP is situated in the lower northern part of the Great Rift Valley at an average altitude of 1,650masl. The northern floor of the rift valley was previously occupied by one large lake, of which Lakes Ziway, Abijata and Langano are remnants, occurring at altitudes of around 1,640 m for Ziway and 1,580 m for the other lakes. This broad flat plain is cut by the Mareko Ridge running from Koshe to Aje to the west of the lakes. The specific site for the proposed industrial park is characterized by similar topography of flat floored landscape.

ii. Climate The climate of the project area is characterized by a semi-arid climatic zone. The maximum and minimum temperature of the project site ranges between 22.50C and 28.20C, and between 10.30C and 16.10C respectively. The dry season, which occurs from late October through January, is the period of the lowest monthly daytime and night time temperatures.

The mean annual precipitation from the three adjoining meteorological stations, namely the Adami Tulu, Bulbulla and Ziway stations, are 113.18mm, 57.34mm and 72.72mm, respectively. Rainfall in the site and its surroundings occurs during two distinct rainy seasons, the “small” rains and the “big” rains. The small rains, which usually begin in February and go to the end of April, and the big rains, which are more reliable, occur from July through September.

2.2. Flora and Fauna i. Flora As there is no significant variation in altitude and habitat range, the vegetation types of the project area are categorized into transformed scattered woodland and open grassland. The woodland areas are characterized by Acacia seyal, Acacia tortilis, Acacia senegal and Balanites aegyptiaca. Along the edge of the abandoned and present cultivation areas of crops, consistingmainly of maize, Opuntia cactus and Euphorbia tirucalli have been used as enclosures and thus predominantly occur. The grassland areas are dominated by Cynodon dactylon, Hypharrenia spp. and Pennisetum plicatulum (Figure 2).

Fig. 2: Grassland areas covered by Cynodon dactylon at Bulbulla IAIP

Based on the preliminary survey conducted, a total of 10 species of plants have been recorded within the project site (Table 1). Even though all identified species are not threatened (according IUCN Red List Category), five of the species are included in the list of ‘useful trees and shrubs of Ethiopia’ as they are considered very important for various purposes.

Table 1: Checklists of common plant species recorded at Bulbulla IAI Species Scientific Name Local Conservation Usefulness No. Name Status (IUCN Red Category List* List Category) 1. Acacia seyal Girar LC L 2. Acacia tortilis Girar LC L 3. Acacia senegal Girar LC L 4. Balanites aegyptiaca Bedeno LC L 5. Opuntia cactus Beles LC NL 6. Euphorbia tirucalli Kinchib LC L 7. Cynodon dactylon Sar - Grass Species 8. Hypharrenia spp. Sar - Grass Species 9. Pennisetum plicatulum. Sar - Grass Species 10. Eragrostis spp. Sar - Grass Species Where, LC – Least Concern *According to Azene Bekele (2007) categorization of ‘Useful Trees and Shrubs of Ethiopia’; where L= Listed; NL= Not Listed.

ii. Fauna Surprisingly, this area is named after the African elephant (Arba – in Oromifa) since it used to be a potential range during the 1930s. However, no wild mammal was observed during the

field survey except foot prints of Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta) and Egyptian Mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon). According to local informants the area is located within the home range of various other species including Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) Aardvark (Orycteropus afer), Common Jackal (Canis aureus), Bat-eared Fox (Otocyon megalotis), Wild Cat (Felis sylvestris), Abyssinian Hare (Lepus habessinicus) and Crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata).

Cattle (ox, cow), sheep, goat and equids are among the domestic animals largely reared by the local residents and thus they are part of the existing biodiversity.

This site is also a location for numerous species of birds. During the survey, 40 species, which constitute 18 avian families, were recorded in the site and its environs (Annex1). The dominant bird species in the area include Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling (Lamprotornis pururopterus), Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus), White-browed Sparrow weaver (Plocepasser mahali), Northern Masked Weaver (Ploceus taeniopterus), Fan-tailed Raven (Corvus rhipidurus), Emerald- spotted Wood Dove (Turtur chalcospilos), Ring-necked Dove (Streptopelia capicola), Spur-winged Plover (Vanellus spinosus), Gabar Goshawk (Melierax gabar) and Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur).

iii. Species of Conservation Concern Considering the specific project site, no threatened wild mammal is found in the area. However, among the avian species observed at the proposed Bulbulla IAIP about 4 species of birds (all vultures) are critically endangered or endangered and one species (Bateleur) is near threatened though they are found abundantly throughout Ethiopia (Table 2).

Table 2: List of Threatened Bird Species of the Project Site N Species Common Scientific Name Conservation o Name Status (IUCN Red List Category)

1 Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus NT 2 Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus EN 3 White -backed Vulture Gyps africanus CEN 4 Ruppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppellii CEN 5 White -headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis EN Where NT – Near Threatened; EN – Endangered; CEN – Critically Endangered

2.3. Protected and Non Protected Biodiversity Sites i. Protected Areas According to the existing wildlife laws of Ethiopia, there are four clearly defined and one indirectly explained category of Protected Areas (PAs) and all PAs and their IUCN conservation status is indicated below (Table 3).

Table 3: Categories of Protected Areas (PAs) in Ethiopia and their Conservation Status

Type of Protected Possible IUCN Definition (as per the existing wildlife laws**) Area Category

1. National Park II An area designated to conserve wildlife and associated natural resources to preserve the scenic and scientific value of the area which may include lakes and other aquatic areas;

2. Sanctuary IV An area designated to conserve one or more species of wildlife that require high conservation priority 3. Wildlife V An area designated to conserve wildlife where Reserve indigenous local communities are allowed to live together with and conserve the wildlife 4. Controlled VI An area designated to conserve wildlife and to carry Hunting Area out legal and controlled hunting

5. Community VI PAs owned and administered by local Conservation Communities; they can practice both consumptive Area * (hunting) and non consumptive (tourism) utilization types.

*Its definitions is not directly stated in the existing laws, **Development, Conservation and Utilization of Wildlife Proclamation (No.541/2007); Ethiopian Wildlife Development and Conservation Authority Establishment Proclamation (No.575/2008); and Wildlife Development, Conservation and Utilization Regulation (No.163/2008).

In this context two protected areas, Bulbullanamely: the Abijata-Shala Lakes National Park (ASLNP) and Aluto Controlled Hunting Area (ACHA) are situated in reasonably close proximity to the proposed IAIP site. The National Park and the Controlled Hunting Area are located 7kms south and 7kms east of the project site, respectively (Fig. 3).

Fig. 3: Location of the Project Area, the Surrounding PAs (ASLNP & ACHA) and Lakes

Abijata-Shala National Park The Abijata-Shala National Park was established in 1970 and is one of the Great Rift Valley protected areas in the central part of the country situated 207 kms south of Addis Ababa. It lies between 7022'04.8" to 7042'47.7" N and longitudes 38022'32.8" to 38040'36.4" E covering a total area of 887 km2 that comprises of both land and water bodies (Fig. 3). Majority of the park area (59.9%) is covered by the three lakes; namely: Lake Abijata, Lake Shalla and Lake Chitu.

The land areas are characterized by Acacia and Euphorbia woodland and riverine vegetation cover of which Acacia woodland is dominant. The dominant tree species include Acacia tortilis, Acacia Senegal, Acaia seyal, Acacia gerrardii, Dicrostachys cinera and Balanites aegypitiaca (Hillman, 1993b).

The park has been renowned for its rich avian diversity and being a wintering ground for various migratory birds that visit the lakes from Europe-Asia and Africa. Recent records show that the ASLNP provides a habitat for 439 species of birds and this represents approximately 51% of the total bird species recorded in Ethiopia.

In general, the ASLNP deserves considerable value from a biodiversity conservation perspective. The potential value and significant features of the park are summarized as follows:

 The ASLNP is the richest wetland in avian diversity and abundance in the country;  The park is the location for three lakes and it is one of the few protected areas of Africa established to conserve wetland diversity;  It is one of the scenically beautiful locations of Ethiopia that comprise of hot springs and blue lakes fringed with flat-topped Acacia trees;  It is a location of four islands that secure nesting and breeding sites for a large number of waterfowls;  It is a place where thousands of Lesser Flamingos are observed;  The park is an important feeding ground for the Great White Pelican in the country;  It comprises 122 out of the 196 wetland bird species listed by the IWRB for eastern Africa waterfowl census;  ASLNP serves as wintering ground for 108 palearctic migrant bird species; and  It is selected as an Important Bird Area (IBA) for holding globally threatened species, including the Lesser Flamingo, Pallid Harrier, Basra reed warbler and Black-winged Pratincole.

However, the ASLNP has been under serious threat from overexploitation of its natural resources including water extraction, overgrazing, expansion of cultivation and settlements that are accompanied by excessive deforestation, siltation, key wild habitat loss and fragmentation as well as transformation of the natural ecosystems. These serious challenges are still threatening much of the park area and its vegetation and water coverage has been dwindling overtime and the population of key species is dramatically declining (Fekadu and Abdi, 2013; EWCA, 2015; ERM and ESSD, 2013).

Taking into account the ever-increasing anthropogenic pressures in and around the park, re- demarcation of the ASLNP is being undertaken and this process will take into consideration the existing ecological and socio-economic conditions of the area. Following this, a General Management Plan (GMP) that comprises of at least five programs is to be developed and be used as a guideline for the conservation and development of the ASLNP.

Moreover, the water of Lake Abijatta has been used for soda ash production by a factory located west of Bulbulla town. This factory abstracts two million cubic metres of water annually and it is considered that this level of water use significantly contributes to the declining water levels of the lake (ERM and ESSD, 2013). Considering this, a study is currently being undertaken to determine the sustainability of the existing abstraction and Soda ash factory.

Similarly the Bulbulla River, which connects Lake Abijatta to its main source of water the much larger freshwater Lake Ziway, has been under pressure due to continuous unregulated use of water by the surrounding large and small scale farms. As a result, the river has stopped flowing along its former courses. Therefore, an initiative that involves all stakeholders and aims at ensuring equitable and sustainable use of water has been started in which an annual water allocation plan is to be developed and implemented.

Aluto CHA The Aluto Controlled Hunting Area (ACHA) is one of the eighteen protected areas in Ethiopia set aside to practice regulated hunting of wild animals. The ACHA covers 202 km2 of an area is located about 200km South of Addis Ababa. The geographical location of the controlled hunting area lies between: UTM 37N 467000 up to 480000 Easting and UTM 37 N 848000 up to 868000 N. The topography of the controlled hunting is characterized by hilly terrain that ranges between 1700masl and 2367masl in altitude (Kahsay et.al, (2008); Temesgen and Endaweke, 2014).

The vegetation of the area is mainly characterized by semi– arid zone shrubs and tree species. The dominant woody plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Combretum molle, and Erica arborea, Carissa edulis, Ficus sycomorus, Ficus vasta, Rhus natalensis, Acacia albida (Faidherbia albida), Acacia tortilis and Acacia seyal.

The ACHA provides habitats for at least 22 species of mammals and 82 species of birds, (Annex 2 and 3). It is renowned for its huntable ungulate populations. These include Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), Mountain reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula chanleri), and Common bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus). Other wild animals found within the controlled hunting area comprises of Leopard (Panthera pardus), Spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), Striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), Black backed jackal (Canais mesomelas), Bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis), Caracal (Felis caracal) and Serval cat (Leptailurus serval).

The dominant bird species in the ACHA are White-browed sparrow weaver, Hemprich’s hornbill, Black-shouldered kite, Black kite, Gabar goshawk, Common kestrel, Bare-faced Go- away Bird, Black wood hoopoe and considerable number of starling and vulture species. According to the IUCN Red Listing, six species of mammals and birds that are found in the ACHA fall into near threatened, vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered categories. Both Stripped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) are near threatened and Leopard (Panthera pardus) is vulnerable. The endangered or critically endangered category is filled by three species of vultures (Hodded, White-backed and Ruppell’s vultures).

The ACHA is currently managed by a concessionaire (hunting Company) and concerned offices of both Federal government and the Oromia Regional States conduct a census every three year to set quotas for hunting in order to ensure sustainable utilization. During the census, habitat condition and associated ecological aspects are also assessed to examine the management and conservation efforts in the area. Moreover, additional monitoring systems are put in place in case there are environmental stresses that adversely affect natural habitats of the hunting area.

ii. Wetlands The proposed Bulbulla IAIP site is located close to the Bulubula River and associated Lake Langano and their surroundings. In the past, the Bulbulla River was known to be the main feeder to Lake Abijatta and now days, as indicated above, the River does not flow during the dry seasons due to unsustainable utilization of water at lake Ziway and other upstream areas. Lake Langano is situated 11kms (~10kms of surrounding wetlands) South East of the Industrial Park (Fig. 3). Geographically, it is located at the co-ordinates of N07° 032′ 18″ E038° 41′05.4″ and its altitude is 1586masl. It has a total surface area of 241km2 and is one of the biggest lakes in the rift valley system of Ethiopia with an unusually reddish brown water color because of its geological formation which is attributed to high amount of silt containing iron compounds (Wood and Talling 1988; EWCA, 2015). The lake is known to support a high diversity and abundance of bird species and is a feeding and roosting site of birds like the Grey-headed Gulls, Cormorants, Herons and Pelicans.

Lake Langano and its surroundings support a population of over 20,000 waterbirds and is used as wintering and breeding sites for a significant number of them. As a result, this lake is recognized by Birdlife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA ET047). Recent studies show that the lake harbours about 49 species of waterbirds (Annex 4) and majority of the recorded species (42.9%) are migratory species, breeding either in Africa or Palaearctic region. while a considerable number of them (34.7%) are resident and confirmed to breed in Ethiopia (Fig. 5).

Fig. 5: Status of the Birds Recorded In the Project Site Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in Palaearctic; R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records confirmed; PW - breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding population and a wintering population

Furthermore, Lake Langano supports a significant number of fish species which include Nile

tilapia and African Catfish. However, the commercial fish catch has been declining over the past decade indicating the population of important fish is declining overtime. The lake is also a location for significant population of Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) though studies show they are at their population decline stage. According to IUCN Red listing, Hippopotamus is categorized as vulnerable. Lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) which is threatened is also another species of conservation concern inhabiting in the lake.

The Langano Sub-Basin is a closed sub-basin sensitive to natural and human impacts. Human impact together with changing climate is significantly affecting natural resources in the Sub- Basin. Besides, there is a high level of water abstraction and pollution by local investments putting pressure on ecosystems and biodiversity in the area.

Understanding the challenges posed on the water bodies like Lake Langano, the Rift Valley Lakes Basin Integrated Resources Development Master Plan was developed about a decade ago. Following which the Rift Valley Lakes Basin Authority (RVLBA), which is responsible to implement the master plan, was established. The RVLBA in collaboration with stakeholders has devised a mechanism that aims to develop a socially equitable and economically viable water allocation plan that also recognizes ecosystem water flow requirements. Therefore, once the designed water allocation plan is adopted by the concerned body upon agreement of all users, relevant government offices and the wider community, it is expected to be effectively implemented and hence ensure sustainable water use.

3. Shashemene RTC The proposed Shashemene RTC is located 250km South of Addis Ababa, on the northern outskirts of Shashemene town. It is situated at the geographic UTM 37N 455882.924 - 456165.923 Easting and UTM 37 N 798692.665 - 799112.659 Northing (Fig. 6). This proposed RTC is the pilot facility of the proposed network of rural transformation centres which will feed the necessary inputs for the Bulbulla IAIP.

The proposed Shashemene RTC site is situated in the cultivation areas around Shashemene town. Throughout the cultivation areas, there are highly scattered trees of Acacia albida, and Croton macrostachyus and the site is more or less transformed to urban area. During the field observation, no IUCN red data listed species were recorded and there is no protected area of any category in the vicinity. Therefore, this RTC is neither a site of conservation concern nor a location for biodiversity priority areas.

Fig. 6: Location of Shashemene RTC

4. Impact Assessment and Mitigation for Bulbulla IAIP and Shashemene RTC i) Assessment Methodology One of the main objectives of an ESIA is to predict, describe and assess impacts that may result from project activities and identify mitigation measures and management actions to avoid, reduce, remedy or compensate for significant adverse effects and, where practicable, to maximize potential positive impacts and opportunities. Therefore, environmental impacts from planned and non-planned activities associated with the proposed IAIP, during all phases of the project, were assessed on the basis of detailed knowledge of these activities.

The nature of an impact which is defined as the type of change from baseline conditions could be either positive or negative. However, in the context of impacts on biodiversity, the likely positive effects are negligible and thus the assessment process, which mainly bases on different scales of probability and severity as well as significance matrix, gives emphasis to the negative impacts.

The impact assessment process identifies and examines the potential impacts anticipated to result from the proposed projects and prediction methods with various rating scales were used (See annex 6.for details). The impacts were assessed as either significant or not significant. Those that were assessed as significant were further rated as being of minor, moderate or major significance. For significant negative impacts mitigation measures were put in place to reduce the residual impacts to as low as reasonably practicable levels.

Furthermore, sensitivity of the biological components was mapped based on field observation since the significance of an impact of a given magnitude depends on the sensitivity of resources and receptors to that impact.

ii) Bulbulla IAIP - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures The proposed site for the Bulbulla IAIP and its surroundings is more or less transformed through cultivation and grazing. However, there are some large trees within the agricultural fields. These trees support a wide variety of faunal species especially birds and are considered ecologically important. All phases of the project which comprise of site setup, fencing, site clearance, excavation, transportation, storing and preparation of construction materials, access road construction and erection of building structures and other industrial infrastructures as well as activities associated with operational and decommissioning phases are expected to have negative impacts on flora and fauna. These include: habitat destruction, deforestation, road kills, pollution and expansion of alien species and deterioration of amount quality of water resources. These include: loss of Acacia trees, destruction of nesting sites of birds, road kills, pollution and expansion of alien species. Additionally, there will be erosion and loss of top soil during soil excavation and also potential contamination of some flora due to spill over of some construction chemicals.

Four species of critically endangered and endangered vultures are known to habitat the area within which the Bulbulla IAIP is situated. . These species can be attracted by wastes around camps and collide with the existing / future power lines. The area is also situated within the flyway of migratory birds in the Great Rift Valley, there is therefore the potential that some construction infrastructures may affect the migration route.

Contamination of the ecosystem during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures as well as abandonment of roads and rehabilitation of affected areas are the impacts that need to be addressed in the decommissioning stage. Generally, the potential impacts in all phases of the envisaged IAIP and their mitigation measures are summarized in the table below (Table 4).

Table 4: Biodiversity Impact Assessment of Bulbulla IAIP

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre-Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure Post-Mitigation Imp Eas Pr act Receptor Sta Cha e of Pro Sign S Sig Description Sev oba Numb ge racter Mitiga babilit ificanc Description ever nifica erity bilit er tion y e ity nce y Impact Biodiversity Loss of Acacia trees Constr Negat Moder 3 2 6  Avoiding damage to and loss of large 2 1 2 1 (Fauna & uction ive ate mature trees and minimize vegetation Flora) clearance as much as possible;  Rehabilitating and re-vegetating the areas affected during construction process.

Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Biodiversity Nesting sites destruction Constr Negati Moder 3 2 6  Avoiding damage to nesting sites; 2 1 2 2 ( Fauna & uction ve ate  Minimize numbers of temporary camps Flora) during construction phase;  Identification and monitoring of main nesting sites.

Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Biodiversity Road kills Constr Negati Moder 2 2 4  Establishing speed bumpers and 2 1 2 3 (Fauna) uction ve ate precaution sign posts on the sensitive wild animal crossing points;  Launching awareness creation programs for the construction staff.

Significance N2 - Minor Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Fauna Pollution Constr Negati High 2 3 6  Developing effective management of 2 2 4 4 uction ve waste and hazardous materials;  All fine earth materials must be enclosed during transportation to the site to prevent spillage and dusting;  Spilled earth and construction material on the main roads should be cleaned up regularly;  The transportation of lubricants and fuel to the construction site should only be done in the appropriate vehicles and containers;  All machinery must be keenly observed not to leak oils on the ground and  maintenance must be operated/carried out in a designated area (protected service bays) and where oils are completely restrained from reaching the ground. Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Biodiversity Expansion of alien Constr Negati Moder 2 2 4  Avoiding introduction of materials from 2 1 2 5 /Ecosystem species uction ve ate areas where alien species occur and Maintenanc make sure that there are no new e succession of exotic ones;  Undertake local monitoring on habitat change/prevalence of invasive species. Significance N2 - Minor Significance N2 - Minor

OPERATIONAL Imp Pre-Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure Post-Mitigation act Ease Numb Receptor Charac of Impact Number Pr er Description Stage Pro Sign S Sig ter Mitiga Sev oba babilit ificanc ever nifica tion erity bilit y e ity nce y Impact Biodiversity Re-vegetation of operati Negat Moder 4 2 8  Appropriate selection of natural 4 2 8 1 indigenous plant species onal ive ate vegetation. in greenery areas

Significance P3 - Moderate P3 - Moderate

Impact Biodiversity Disturbance and operati Negati Moder 1 4 4  Undertake monitoring of the birds & their 1 2 2 2 /Avian Electrocutions of avian onal ve ate flyway on regular basis; fauna species  Use of birds friendly power lines and associated infrastructures. Significance N2 - Minor Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Biodiversity Deterioration of water operati Negati Moder 3 3 9  Developing effective watershed 2 2 4 3 /Ecosystem resources/quality onal ve ate management plan for the area; Maintenanc  Support watershed conservation efforts e in and around the project area;  Avoiding any uncontrolled drainage towards the surrounding water features;  Developing effective management of waste and hazardous materials as per the WMP. Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Impact Biodiversity Attraction of wild animals operati Negati Moder 3 2 6  Launching awareness creation programs 2 2 4 4 /Ecosystem by wastes onal ve ate for the whole staff; Maintenanc  Avoiding feeding and any contact with e wild animals.  Adoption of conventional sewage treatment facilities and solid waste management; Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

DECOMISSIONING Impact Biodiversity/ Contamination of the Deco Negati Moder 1 2 2  Adoption of conventional sewage 1 1 1 1 Ecosystem ecosystem during mmiss ve ate treatment facilities and solid waste Maintenance replacement of ioning management; machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures; Significance N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible Impact Biodiversity/ Abandonment of roads Deco Negati High 2 1 1  Undertake environmentally friendly 2 1 2 2 Ecosystem and rehabilitation of mmiss ve restoration mechanisms Maintenance affected areas ioning Positiv e

Significance P2 - Minor P2 - Minor

CUMULATIVE Impact Biodiversity/ Erosion and top soil Constr Negati Moder 1 2 2  Avoiding creation of access to areas 1 1 1 1 Ecosystem removal during uction ve ate would lead to soil erosion; Maintenance excavation  Restore removed soils and recover exposed ones with grass and other appropriate species as soon as possible;  Use of biological soil and water conservation mechanisms. Significance N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible

Impact Biodiversity/ Alteration of the Constr Negati Moder 2 2 4  Developing effective watershed 1 2 2 2 Ecosystem watershed of the area uction/ ve ate management plan for the area; Maintenance Operat  Avoiding creation of access to steep ional slopes that would scar the landscape or lead to soil erosion;  Support watershed conservation efforts in and around the project area. N2 - Minor N2 - Minor

Based on the mapping, biodiversity sensitivity of the proposed Bulbulla IAIP is defined as medium high, medium and medium low (Fig. 10).

Fig. 10: Biodiversity sensitivity map of Bulbulla IAIP iii) Shashemene RTC - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures Shashemene RTC site is situated in the cultivation areas around Shashemene town. Throughout the cultivation areas, there are highly scattered trees of Acacia albida, and Croton macrostachyus and the site is more or less transformed to either cultivated and urbanized area. It is however to note that there are some impacts that need to be taken into consideration. The negative impacts that could be resulted from all phases of the proposed project include: loss of the indigenous trees mentioned above, pollution and attraction of scavenger wild animals by wastes and contamination of the area during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures of the decommissioning phase.

Generally, the impact associated with the proposed Shashemene RTC is either very low or negligible (Table 5) since there are no sensitive areas in the context of biodiversity conservation.

Table 5: Biodiversity Impact Assessment of Shashemene RTC

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Pre-Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure Post-Mitigation Imp Eas Receptor Sta Cha e of Pr act Description Pro Sign S Sig ge racter Mitiga Sev oba Numb babilit ificanc Description ever nifica erity bilit er tion y e ity nce y Impact Biodiversity Loss of indigenous trees Constr Negat Moder 2 2 4  Avoiding damage to and loss of large 1 1 1 1 ( Fauna & uction ive ate mature trees as much as possible; Flora)  Rehabilitating and re-vegetating the areas affected during construction process;

Significance N2 - Minor Significance N1 - Negligible

Impact Biodiversity Pollution Constr Negati Moder 2 3 6  All fine earth materials must be enclosed 2 1 2 2 ( Fauna & uction ve ate during transportation to the site to prevent Flora) spillage and dusting;  Spilled earth and construction material on the main roads should be cleaned up regularly;  Trucks used during construction should be fitted with tailgates that close properly and with tarpaulins to cover the materials;  The transportation of lubricants and fuel to the construction site should only be done in the appropriate vehicles and containers;  All machinery must be keenly observed not to leak oils on the ground (use of drip trays recommended) Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Significance P3 - Moderate P3 - Moderate

Impact Biodiversity Attraction of scavenger operati Negati Moder 3 2 6  Launching awareness creation programs 2 1 2 2 /Ecosystem wild animals by wastes onal ve ate for the whole staff; Maintenanc  Adoption of conventional sewage e treatment facilities and solid waste management;

Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

DECOMISSIONING Impact Biodiversity/ Contamination of the Deco Negati Moder 1 2 2  Adoption of conventional sewage 1 1 1 1 Ecosystem area during mmiss ve ate treatment facilities and solid waste Maintenance replacement of ioning management; machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures; Significance N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible Impact Biodiversity/ Rehabilitation of Deco Negati Moder 2 1 2  Undertake environmentally friendly 2 1 2 2 Ecosystem affected areas mmiss ve ate restoration mechanisms Maintenance ioning Positiv e

Significance P2 - Minor P2 - Minor

CUMULATIVE

Impact Biodiversity/ Erosion and top soil Constr Negati Moder 1 2 2  Restore removed soils and recover 1 1 1 1 Ecosystem removal during uction ve ate exposed ones with grass and other Maintenance excavation appropriate species as soon as possible;  Use of biological soil and water conservation mechanisms. Significance N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible

Impact Biodiversity/ Contamination of the Constr Negati Moder 2 2 4  All fine earth materials must be enclosed 1 1 1 2 Ecosystem ecosystem due to spill uction/ ve ate during transportation to the site to prevent Maintenance over and dusting of Operat spillage and dusting; some construction ional  Spilled earth and construction material on materials and wastes the main roads should be cleaned up regularly;  Trucks used during construction should be fitted with tailgates that close properly and with tarpaulins to cover the materials N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible

iv) Residual Impacts and Conclusion Generally, effective application of the aforementioned mitigation measures by the project teams is expected to reduce the potential negative impacts associated with the Bulbulla IAIP and Shashemene RTC projects to minor or negligible level.

Therefore, the potential impacts associated with the proposed projects can be considerably minimized provided that the recommended mitigation measures are properly applied. Moreover, the activities associated with the projects need to be monitored at all phases in order to identify unpredicted impacts and take corrective measures.

5. REFERENCES/ Bibliography AEWA (2012). AEWA Plan of Action for Africa 2012-2017: A guide to the implementation of the AEWA Strategic Plan 2009-2017. Adopted by the 5th Session of the Meeting of the Parties to AEWA (MOP5), 14 - 18 May 2012, La Rochelle, France. Bekele A., Birnie A., and Tengnäs B. (1993). Useful trees and shrubs for Ethiopia: Identification, propagation, and management for agricultural and pastoral communities. Regional soil conservation unit, Swedish International Developments Authority. EEPCo 2011/12. Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation: Facts in Brief EPA in Collaboration with MEDaC (1997). "The Environmental Policy of Ethiopia". Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. ERM and ESSD (2013). Report on Rift Basin Area Block 2D Seismic Survey EIA, African Oil Ethiopia, BV. Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2014). Report on the implementation of AEWA for the period 2012-2014 EWCA, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 26pp. Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2009). Assessment of the Value of the Protected Area system of Ethiopia, “Making the Economic Case”, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2014). National Ivory Action Plan of Ethiopia. Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) (2005). Wildlife Strategy of Ethiopia. FDRE, Addis Ababa. 11PP. Fekadu D., Abdi I. (2010). Ecological Assessment for the re-demarcation of Abijata Shalla lakes National Park, EWCA. Halcrow Group Limited and Generation Integrated Rural Development (GIRD) Consultants (2009). Rift Valley Lakes Basin (RVLB) Integrated Resources Development Master Plan Study Project. Hillman, J.C. (1993b). Ethiopia: Compendium of wildlife conservation information. Vol.2: Information on wildlife conservation areas. NYZS-The wildlife conservation Society- International, New York. Institute of Biodiversity Conservation (IBC now EIB, 2012). National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). Institute of Biodiversity Conservation (IBC now EIB, 2005). National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). Kahumbu, P., Mbuthia, B. J. and Drori, O. (2013). Scoping study on the prosecution of wildlife related crimes in Kenyan courts January 2008 to June 2013. Wildlife Direct, Washington DC, USA, 32pp. Kahsay G.A. Mihret E. and Alemayehu D. (2008). Report of Wildlife Census in Aluto Open Hunting Area, WCD,Addis Ababa. Kahsay G.A (2017). Biological Baseline Report as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Study on the Proposed Geo-Thermal Power Plant and Transmission Line, Aluto. Kingdon J. (1997). Kingdon Field Guide to Mamals of Africa. Academic Press, London. Ministry of Water Resources (2008). Rift Valley Lakes Basin Integrated Resources Development Master Plan Study Project, Halcrow Group Ltd. & GRID Consultants. Negarit Gazeta (1994). A Proclamation to Provide for the Conservation, Development and Utilization of Forests. No. 94 of 1994, No. 80, 28 March, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Negarit Gazeta Proclamation No. 541/2007 on wildlife conservation. Negarit Gazeta Wildlife Conservation Authority Establishment Proclamation No. 575/2008. Negarit Gazeta Regulation No 163/2009 of the Council of Ministers proclaimed to determine wildlife conservation and utilization. Negarit Gazeta Wildlife Conservation Regulation No. 545/1974 as amended. Nigel R., Terry S. John F. John G. and Brian S. (2009). Birds of the Horn of Africa. Taye A. (2008). Digest of Ethiopia’s Policies, Strategies and Programs.

Temesgen Y. and Endaweke W. (2014). Report on Evaluation and Monitoring of Aluto Controlled Hunting area, EWCA, Addis Ababa. Tole, M. P. (1997) Eds. “Environmental Impact Assessment in Kenya: Theory and Practice. Proceedings of the Environmental Impact Assessment Seminar, August 1996,” School of Environmental Studies, Moi University . Wood J. F. and Talling I (1965) (Cited in ERM and ESSD (2013). The chemical composition of African lake waters. Int. Revue ges. Hydrobiol. 50:421-463. World Bank Group (2007). Environmental, Health and Safety Guideline.

6. Annexes Annex1: Checklist of the Birds of the Project Site (Bulbulla IAIP) and its Surroundings Source: Field survey (2017) No. Family Name English Name Scientific Name 1 Ardeidae Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 2 Ciconiidae Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus 3 Accipitridae Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus 4 Hooded Vulture** Necrosyrtes monachus 5 White-backed Vulture*** Gyps africanus 6 Ruppell’s Vulture*** Gyps rueppellii 7 White-headed Vulture** Trigonoceps occipitalis 8 Bateleur* Terathopius ecaudatus 9 Gabar Goshawk Melierax gabar 10 Augur Buzzard Buteo augur 11 Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis 12 Charadriidae Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus 13 Crowned Plover Vanellus coronatus 14 Petroclididae Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus 15 Columbidae Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea 16 Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola 17 Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos 18 Musophagidae White-bellied Go-away Bird Corythaixoides leucogaster 19 Collidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus 20 Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus 21 Coraciidae Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinica 22 Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata 23 Upupidae Hoopoe Upupa epops 24 Bucerotidae Hemprich’s Hornbill Tockus hemprichii 25 Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorohynchus 26 Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus 27 Red-fronted Barbet Tricholaema diademata 28 Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus 29 Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis 30 Corvidae Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus 31 Sturnidae Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus 32 Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling Lamprotornis purpuropterus 33 Superb Starling Lamprotornis superbus 34 Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erithrorhynchus 35 Passeridae Swainson’s Sparrow Passer swainsonii 36 Ploceidae White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia dinemelli 37 White-browed Sparrow Plocepasser mahali

weaver 38 Northern Masked Weaver Ploceus taeniopterus 39 Estrildidae Red-billed Fire finch Lagonosticta senegala 40 Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus *** Critically Endangered; **Endangered; *Near Threatened

Annex2: List of Larger Mammal Species of Aluto CHA Source: Kahsay et.al, (2008) and Kahsay (2017)

No Species Scientific Name Conservation Common Name Status (IUCN Red List Category)

1 1 Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros LC 2 Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula chanleri LC 3 Common Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus LC 4 Grey Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia LC 5 Klipspringer Oreotragus oreaotragus LC 6 Abyssinian hare Lepus habessinicus LC 7 3 Anubis Baboon Papio Anubis LC 8 Vervet Monkey Cercopithecus aethiops pygerythrus LC 9 4 Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus LC 10 5 Spotted Hyena Crocuta crocuta LC 11 6 Stripped Hyena Hyaena hyaena NT 12 6 Leopard Panthera pardus VU 13 Serval Cat Leptailurus serval LC 14 7 Caracal Felis caracal LC 15 Common Genet Genetta genetta LC 16 African Civet Civettictis civetta LC 17 Wild Cat Felis sylvestris LC 18 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis LC 19 Common Jackal Canis aureus LC 20 Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis LC 21 9 Aardvark Orycteropus afer LC 22 1 Rock Hyrax Procavia habessinica LC 0 LC – Least Concern; NT – Near Threatened; VU - Vulnerable

Annex 3: Checklist of the Birds of Aluto Controlled Hunting Areas Source: Kahsay et.al, (2008) and Kahsay (2017)

No. Family Name English Name Scientific Name Status/R ange 1 Accipitridae Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus RB 2 Black Kite Milvus migrans MB/PW 3 Hooded Vulture** Necrosyrtes monachus RB 4 White-backed Vulture*** Gyps africanus RB 5 Ruppell’s Vulture*** Gyps rueppellii RB 6 Bateleur* Terathopius ecaudatus RB 7 Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates RB 8 Gabar Goshawk Melierax gabar RB 9 Augur Buzzard Buteo augur RB 10 Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax RB 11 Falconidae Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus RB/PW 12 Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus RB 13 Phasianidae Crested Francolin Francolinus sephaena RB 14 Clapperton’s Francolin Francolinus clappertoni RB 15 Charadriidae Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus RB 16 Black-winged Plover Vanellus melanopterus RB 17 Crowned Plover Vanellus coronatus RB 18 Petroclididae Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus RB 19 Columbidae Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea RB 20 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis RB 21 African Mourning Dove Streptopelia decipiens RB 22 Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola RB 23 Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata RB 24 Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos RB 25 Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer MB 26 Namaqua Dove Oena capensis RB 27 Psittacidae Orange-bellied Parrot Poicephalus rufiventris RB 28 Black-winged Lovebird Agapornis taranta RB 29 Musophagidae Bare-faced Go-away Bird Corythaixoides personatus RB 30 White-bellied Go-away Bird Corythaixoides leucogaster RB 31 Caprimulgidae Mountain Nightjar Caprimulgus poliocephalus RB 32 Apodidae Little Swift Apus affinis RB 33 African White-ramped Swift Apus caffer RB 34 Collidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus RB 35 Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus RB 36 Alcedinidae Striped Kingfisher Halcyol chelicuti RB

37 Meropidae Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus RB 38 Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus MB 39 Coraciidae Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinica MB 40 Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata RB 41 Phoeniculidae Black Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus aterrimus RB 42 Upupidae Hoopoe Upupa epops RB/PW 43 Bucerotidae Hemprich’s Hornbill Tockus hemprichii RB 44 Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorohynchus RB 45 Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus RB 46 Lybiidae Red-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus RB 47 Red-fronted Barbet Tricholaema diademata RB 48 Hirundanidae Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera RB 49 Red-ramped Swallow Hirundo daurica RB/PW 50 African Rock Martin Hirundo fuligula RB/P 51 Motacillidae Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea PW 52 African Grassland Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus RB 53 Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus RB 54 Turdidae Ruppell’s Robin-chat Cossypha semirufa RB 55 Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris RB 56 Pied Wheatear Oenanthe phillipsi PW 57 Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina PW 58 Muscicapidae Slaty Flycatcher Melaenornis chocolatinus RB 59 Platysteiridae Black-headed Batis Batis minor RB 60 Timaliidae White-rumped Babbler Turdoides leucopygius RB 61 Nectariniidae Scarlet-chested Sunbird Nectarinia senegalensis RB 62 Tacazze Sunbird Nectarinia tacazze RB 63 Malaconotidae Orange-breasted Bush Shrike Malacomotus supfureopectus RB 64 Grey-headed Bush Shrike Malacomotus blanchoti RB 65 Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis RB 66 Corvidae Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus RB 67 Sturnidae Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio RB 68 Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus RB 69 Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling Lamprotornis purpuropterus RB 70 Superb Starling Lamprotornis superbus RB 71 Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogas M 72 Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erithrorhynchus RB 73 Passeridae Swainson’s Sparrow Passer swainsonii R 74 Ploceidae White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia dinemelli RB 75 White-browed Sparrow Plocepasser mahali RB weaver 76 Northern Masked Weaver Ploceus taeniopterus R

77 Ruppell’s Weaver Ploceus galbula RB 78 Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus RB 79 Chestnut Weaver Ploceus rubiginosus RB 80 Estrildidae Red-billed Fire finch Lagonosticta senegala RB 81 Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus RB 82 Fringillidae Rechinow’s Seed Eater Serinus reichenowi RB *** Critically Endangered; **Endangered; *Near Threatened Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in Palaearctic; R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records confirmed; PW - breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding population and a wintering population

Annex 4: Water Birds Recorded Lake Langano Sources: EWCA’s Waterbirds Count 2011 and 2015 Range/Migrati No. Species Common Name Scientific Name on Status 1 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis RB 2 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo RB 3 Long-tailed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus RB 4 Great White Pelican Pelicanus onocrotalus RB 5 Pink-backed Pelican Pelicanus rufescens RB 6 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis MB 7 Little Egret Egretta garzetta R 8 Yellow-billed Egret Mesophoyx intermedia RB 9 Great Egret Casmerodius albus R 10 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea RB/PW 11 Goliath Heron Ardea golith RB 12 Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis R 13 Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus RB 14 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R 15 Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus MB 16 African Spoonbill Platalea alba RB 17 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus RB 18 Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis R 19 Northern Pintail Anas acuta PW 20 Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota R 21 Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata PW 22 African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer RB 23 Lesser Moorhen Gallinula angulata R 24 Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata RB 25 Black-winged Stilt Himontopus himantopus RB/PW 26 Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta PW

27 Senegal Thick-nee Burhinus senegallus RB 28 Little Ringed Plover Charadriusdubius PW 29 Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula P 30 Kittlitz's Sand Plover Charadrius pecuarius RB 31 Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus RB 32 Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris RB 33 Caspian Plover Charadrius asiaticus P 34 Little Stint Calidris minuta PW 35 Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii PW 36 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea P 37 Ruff Philomachus puganax PW 38 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago PW 39 Black-tailed Godwit Lomosa limosa PW 40 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis PW 41 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia PW 42 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus PW 43 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola PW 44 Common Sandpiper Tringa hypoleucos PW 45 Grey-headed Gull Luarus cirrocephalus RB 46 Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus P 47 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus PW 48 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica PW 49 White-winged Black Tern Chilidonias leucopterus PW Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in Palaearctic; R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records confirmed; PW - breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding population and a wintering population

Annex 5: Impact Scoring/Rating Definitions

Negative Positive Negligible Negligible 1 Minor Minor 2-4 Moderate Moderate 6-9 Major Major 12-16

Rating Scale Description Unlikely - very improbable, never heard of in the industry, or an event with a short duration (probably will not 1 happen). Low probability - incident has occurred in the industry and so therefore could occur, or an event lasting up to a 2 day (some possibility, but low likelihood). Medium Probability - incident has (or is) expected to occur during the project or is very likely to, or an event 3 which may occur up to 1 month (distinct possibility). High probability - incident is expected to happen frequently a year or is almost certain to happen, or an event 4 which is expected to occur multiple times (most likely).

ENVIRONMENTAL RECEPTORS – PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL

CATEGORY NEGATIVE POSITIVE

Major, long term national, international or transboundary effects. Baseline will be significantly improved by the project. 4 High (Negative) Deterioration/improvements of the existing habitat or ecosystem Results in changes / baseline conditions is significant. increase in the abundance and biodiversity of populations.

Rehabilitation is required or the baseline will not recover. Exceed national and international regulatory standards in protection and creation of natural habitats. Results in changes / reduction in the abundance and biodiversity of populations which may or may not recover.

Such impacts are a major non-compliance with national and international regulatory standards and may result in immediate intervention by governmental bodies and stakeholders.

Moderate, medium term deterioration / impact on the ecosystem on Moderate, medium term a local / national level, leading to observable and measurable rehabilitation of changes (negative). ecosystems or national significance, leading to observable and measurable changes. Moderate deterioration/improvements and changes / reduction in Moderate the abundance and biodiversity of the area with moderate recovery deterioration/improvements periods to baseline conditions. and changes / increase in 3 Medium (Negative) the abundance and biodiversity of the area with moderate recovery periods to baseline conditions.

Non-conformance with national and international regulatory Conformance with national standards which may result in the intervention by governmental and international regulatory bodies and stakeholders. standards.

An effect will be experienced but they will be minor, short term and An effect will be local, leading to observable and measurable changes recoverable experienced but they will within short durations. be minor, short term and local, leading to observable and measurable changes recoverable within short durations. Potential non-conformance with regulatory standards. Unlikely to Partial conformance with result in concerns being raised by governmental bodies or regulatory standards. 2 Low (negative) stakeholders. Meets governmental and stakeholder requirements.

Minor deterioration of ambient environmental conditions and Minor improvements to recovery requires little or no intervention. ambient environmental conditions.

Deemed ‘imperceptible’ or indistinguishable from natural Deemed ‘imperceptible’ or background conditions. No public interest. indistinguishable from 1 Very Low natural background (positive/negative) conditions. No public interest.