Johannesburg

14 Eglin Road Sunninghill 2191 29/10/2015 PO Box 2700 Rivonia 2128

To: Sonja van der Merwe Tel: +27 11 519 4600 Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd Fax: +27 11 807 5670 Tel: 011 231 2200 Web: www.gibb.co.za Email: [email protected]

PROPOSAL TO CONDUCT A FAUNAL, FLORAL AND AVIFAUNAL ASSESSMENT OF THE AREA ASSOCIATED WITH THE ESKOM RETHABISENG NORTH SUBSTATION, BRONKHORSTSPRUIT, GAUTENG PROVINCE

It is my pleasure to provide you with a proposal to conduct a faunal, floral and avifaunal (hereafter referred to as ecological study) of the area associated with the proposed Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation. It is understood that Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit are proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, Gauteng Province. The proposed new Substation will be known as the Rethabiseng North 132/11kV 2x20MVA Substation, and will have four fully equipped 11kV feeder bays for feeder splitting. Two powerlines are proposed which will tie in and out of the proposed new substation. Details of the proposed lines are provided below: • The Rethabiseng-Rethabiseng North loop-in line which will be approximately 0.5km in length. This line will be a 132kV Kingbird line which will tie into the existing Rethabiseng- Gemsbok line; • The Rethabiseng North -Gemsbok loop-out line which will be approximately 0.5km in length. This line will be a 132kV Kingbird line which will ties into the existing Rethabiseng- Gemsbok line 44 - Establish Rethabiseng 132/11kV 2x20MVA Substation Substation location: West of Ekangala F Township - Establish four fully equipped 11kV feeder bays for feeder splitting. The ecological assessment will provide a description of the dominant species occurring in the area as well as those expected to occur, including floral species composition and structure as well as faunal habitat diversity. The assessment will distinguish clearly between areas containing predominantly exotic and predominantly natural vegetation. It will also describe the endangered, rare or protected plant and animal species, and/or potential habitats that occur on the study site for these species. Assessments will be done in accordance to GDARD’s minimum requirements for biodiversity studies and should thus be conducted between November and March (summer). Avifaunal studies will include surveys to determine if any major flight patterns and/or paths of birds which are vulnerable to collisions with powerlines are crossing the proposed powerlines.

1. PROJECT METHODOLOGY

The methodology for the ecological assessment will be undertaken as follows: • Review of relevant literature which will include distribution data of fauna (including avifauna) and vegetation unit(s) expected to occur on the site, as well as the conservation status of the vegetation unit(s) and faunal species;

GIBB Holdings Reg: 2002/019792/07 Directors: Dr D. Mkhwanazi (Chairman), Mr R. Vries, Mr B. Hendricks, Mr M. Mayat

GIBB (Pty) Ltd, Reg: 1992/007139/07 is a wholly owned subsidiary of GIBB Holdings. A list of divisional directors is available from the company secretary. • Review available information layers within the Geographical Information System (GIS) e.g. land cover; relevant C-Plan. • Field survey of the site and immediate surroundings, using accepted scientific methodologies; • Field survey to detect the presence of threatened or protected plant and animal species on the study site and immediate surrounds or to identify suitable habitat for these species; and • Field surveys to determine flight patterns of avifaunal species that are vulnerable to collision with power lines.

2. DELIVERABLES

The deliverables of the ecological assessment will include the following: • Status quo report comparing the faunal and floral assemblages that are expected to occur on the site to the actual communities present within the study site; • Description and mapping of the broad vegetation communities identified during the field survey and their ecological connectivity; • Mapping of the sensitivity of the vegetation communities and faunal habitat; • List of plant and animal species identified during the field survey; • List of threatened, rare or protected plant and animal species that could occur on the site as well as those confirmed to occur; • Map(s) indicating the locality of confirmed populations and/or suitable habitat of threatened, rare or protected plants and animals; and • Impact assessment and mitigation measures to aid the conservation of these species and to minimise the impacts on the natural environment during construction.

3. LIMITATIONS • Ecological surveys can only be conducted during the growing season of most plants and the breeding season of most fauna, which is from November to March . • Due to the short time in the field, small mammal trapping will not be undertaken. If this is deemed necessary by the authorities, a separate study can be arranged. • The faunal assessment will not include invertebrate surveys. • No costs associated with security have been included within the proposal.

4. DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE The ecologist, as a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), undertake his/her profession in accordance with the Code of Conduct of the Council, act as an independent consultant and have and will not have vested interest in the proposed activity proceeding.

2 5. REVIEW PROCESS The resulting ecological report will go through an internal and if needed an external peer review process, conducted by competent specialists in the field of study for which the ecologists are registered.

6. TERMS OF REFERENCE The Terms of Reference for the current project is understood to be as follows: • Status quo report comparing the faunal and floral assemblages that are expected to occur on the site to the actual communities present within the study site; • Description and mapping of the broad vegetation communities identified during the field survey and their ecological connectivity; • Mapping of the sensitivity of the vegetation communities and faunal habitat; • List of plant and animal species identified during the field survey; • List of threatened, rare or protected plant and animal species that could occur on the site as well as those confirmed to occur; • Map(s) indicating the locality of confirmed populations and/or suitable habitat of threatened, rare or protected plants and animals; and • Impact assessment and mitigation measures to aid the conservation of these species and to minimise the impacts on the natural environment during construction.

7. BUDGET • A breakdown of the fee proposal is provided in the table below. Please note the total is excluding VAT. • The cost estimate is based on a process expressly involving the activities and expenses related to them as described in this proposal. In the event that some activities have to be repeated, or additional activities have to be conducted, the time and financial implications will be discussed with the client, prior to commencement. • The process and timing as specified in this proposal rely at various points on inputs by the proponent and technical consultants.

3 Table 1: Proposed Budget

Activity Total

1. Project Administration R 1 500.00

2. Professional Fees R 43 950.00

3. Disbursements R 4 382.00

Total excl. VAT R 49 832.00

• Only activities directly to the Terms of Reference stated above have been provided for. Should any additional activities be required, a variation order will be raised;

8. GIBB ADDED VALUE

The multi-disciplinary nature of the GIBB project team, with all relevant knowledgeable sectors incorporated, will allow for the strategic and effective incorporation of all relevant and required inputs, streamlining the entire process.

This project proposal fully supports the project brief and compliments it by providing an aligned and focussed project approach and methodology which will ensure that the required objectives of the Ecological Assessment are met through high quality, appropriate and practical deliverables. The GIBB project team is keen to work with you on this project and will contribute our very best efforts to make all aspects of this project a success.

Please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned should you require any additional information or further clarification.

For and on behalf of GIBB (Pty) Ltd

______Karin van der Walt Specialist Unit: Specialist Direct Tel: 0726078613 Fax: 012 348 5878 Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

4

ESKOM RETHABISENG NORTH SUBSTATION AND ASSOCIATED POWER LINES: ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT (FLORA AND FAUNA INCLUDING AVIFAUNA)

GIBB Reference No. J35409

Prepared for: Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd Engineering and Environmental Consulting 37 Sunninghill Office Park Peltier Drive Sunninghill Johannesburg 2191 Tel. No.: 011 231 2200 Fax. No.: 011 807 1607 E-mail: [email protected]

Prepared by: GIBB P.O. Box 35007 Menlo Park Pretoria 0102 Tel. No.: 012 349 1307 Fax. No.: 012 349 1229

December 2015

______COPYRIGHT WARNING Copyright in all text and other matter, including the manner of presentation, is the exclusive property of the author. It is a criminal offence to reproduce and/or use, without written consent, any matter, technical procedure and/or technique contained in this document. Criminal and civil proceedings will be taken as a matter of strict routine against any person and/or institution infringing the copyright of the author and/or proprietors.

Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

Compiled by: Authorised by: Karin van der Walt Cert. Sci. Nat. Byron Grant Pr. Sci. Nat. Terrestrial Ecologist Principal: Specialist Services SACNASP Reg. No. 300028/12 SACNASP: Reg. No. 400275/08

______Date: 15/12/2015

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd ii Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

Declaration of Independence

I, Karin van der Walt, in my capacity as a specialist consultant, hereby declare that I - • Act as an independent consultant; • Do not have any financial interest in the undertaking of the activity, other than remuneration for the work performed in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA); • Have and will not have vested interest in the proposed activity proceeding; • Have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity; • Undertake to disclose, to the competent authority, any material information that has or may have the potential to influence the decision of the competent authority or the objectivity of any report, plan or document required in terms of the NEMA; • Will provide the competent authority with access to all information at my disposal regarding the application, whether such information is favourable to the applicant or not; • As a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), will undertake my profession in accordance with the Code of Conduct of the Council, as well as any other societies to which I am a member • Based on information provided to me by the project proponent, and in addition to information obtained during the course of this study, have presented the results and conclusion within the associated document to the best of my professional judgement; • Reserve the right to modify aspects pertaining to the present investigation should additional information become available through ongoing research and/or further work in this field; and • Undertake to have my work peer reviewed on a regular basis by a competent specialist in the field of study for which I am registered.

______14/12/2015__ Karin van der Walt Cert. Sci. Nat. Date Terrestrial Ecologist SACNASP Reg. No. 300028/12

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd iii Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Gibb Engineering and Architecture, as independent environmental practitioners and ecological specialists, was appointed by Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd to undertake an ecological assessment of the area associated with the proposed Eskom Rethabiseng North substation and associated power lines. The Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit is proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, in the Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces.

The study area is situated within the Savanna and Grassland Biomes, and more specifically within the Rand Highveld Grassland vegetation type, while the Central Sandy Bushveld vegetation type is located immediately west of the study area. Rand Highveld Grassland is listed as Endangered while the Central Sandy vegetation type is currently listed as Vulnerable.

The study area falls within the Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces. Each Province has its own Conservation Plan. According to the Gauteng Conservation Plan, alternative 2 is not located within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) or an Ecological Support Area (ESA), although there is a CBA located approximately 800m south of alternative 2. The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan, indicates that the preferred alternative as well as alternative 1 are located in “Moderately or Heavily Modified Areas, while areas to the west of the study area were classified as Other Natural Areas.

The three substation alternatives were located in close proximity of each other and confined to an area of approximately 37ha (374,604m²). The area associated with all three substation alternatives were classified as Secondary Grassland (on old ploughed fields), while the areas surrounding the substation alternatives and associated lines, consisted of Disturbed Natural Grassland as well as Disturbed Moist Grasslands.

The area associated with all three substation alternatives including the loop-in / loop- out lines was considered to be of low conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. However, the areas surrounding the substation alternatives (and associated lines), were considered to be of medium to high conservation importance and ecological sensitivity due to the presence of floral species of conservation concern and/or provincially protected species. In addition to this, the areas surrounding the study area could also provide suitable habitat for three faunal species of conservation concern.

Based on the findings of this ecological assessment, none of the substation alternatives (and associated lines) are likely to have a significant impact on the ecology, although mitigation measures are recommended to prevent impacts on the surrounding areas.

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd iv Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Terms of Reference ...... 1 1.2 Methodology ...... 1 1.3 Limitations ...... 2 2 BACKGROUND ...... 2 2.1 Location ...... 2 2.2 Climate ...... 2 2.3 Regional Vegetation ...... 3 2.4 Listed Ecosystems and Centres of Endemism ...... 4 2.5 Provincial Conservation Plans ...... 8 2.5.1 Gauteng Conservation Plan ...... 8 2.5.2 Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan ...... 9 3 RESULTS: FLORA ...... 10 3.1 Overview ...... 10 3.1.1 Secondary Grassland (on old ploughed fields) ...... 14 3.1.2 Disturbed Natural Grasslands ...... 15 3.1.3 Disturbed Moist Grassland ...... 16 3.2 Plants of Conservation Concern ...... 17 3.3 Provincially Protected Plants ...... 19 3.3.1 Provincially Protected Plants – Gauteng ...... 19 3.3.2 Provincially Protected Plants - Mpumalanga ...... 21 3.4 Medicinal Plants ...... 23 3.5 Alien and Invasive Plants ...... 24 4 RESULTS: FAUNA ...... 25 4.1 Faunal Habitats ...... 25 4.2 Faunal Species Occurrence ...... 26 4.2.1 Avifauna ...... 26 4.2.2 Mammals ...... 27 4.2.3 Herpetofauna ...... 28 4.2.4 Lepidoptera ...... 29 5 ECOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY ...... 32 5.1 Areas of Medium-High Sensitivity ...... 34 5.2 Areas of Medium-Low Sensitivity ...... 34 6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION ...... 36 6.1 Assessment Criteria ...... 36 6.1.1 Nature of the impact ...... 36 6.1.2 Scale/extent of the impact ...... 36 6.1.3 Duration of the impact ...... 37 6.1.4 Intensity or severity of the impact ...... 37 6.1.5 The probability (or likelihood) of the impact occurring ...... 38 6.1.6 Impact significance before mitigation...... 39 6.1.7 Impact significance after mitigation ...... 39

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6.1.8 Ascribing significance to cumulative impacts ...... 39 6.2 Impact Assessment ...... 40 6.2.1 Destruction of natural vegetation and faunal habitat ...... 40 6.2.2 Interference with faunal species and faunal behaviour activities ...... 42 6.2.3 Faunal electrocution ...... 43 7 CONCLUSION ...... 45 8 REFERENCES ...... 46 GLOSSARY ...... 49 APPENDICES ...... 52

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd vi Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Locality of the study area ...... 6 Figure 2: Regional vegetation in relation to the study area ...... 7 Figure 3: The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan and Gauteng Conservation Plan in relation to the study area...... 11 Figure 4: Google Earth Imagery from 2004 indicating the ploughed fields within the study area ...... 12 Figure 5: Vegetation units associated with the study area ...... 13 Figure 6: The locality of the seasonal pan in relation to the study area ...... 30 Figure 7: Ecological sensitivity as determined within the study area ...... 35

LIST OF PHOTO PLATES

Photo Plate 1: Secondary grassland within the study area ...... 14 Photo Plate 2: Disturbed natural grassland adjacent to the study area ...... 15 Photo Plate 3: A seasonal pan south of the study area (a) and Disturbed Moist Grasslands to the west of the study area (b) ...... 17 Photo Plate 4: Provincially protected species confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area included (a) Gladiolus sp., (b), Boophone disticha , (c) Crinum graminicola, and (d) Protea welwitschii ..... 23 Photo Plate 5: Faunal habitat within the footprint of the proposed substation alternatives and associated lines ...... 26 Photo Plate 6: Mammal species confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland adjacent to the study area included (a) soil heaps indicating the presence of Cryptomys hottentotus (African Mole Rat) and, (b) Cynictis penicillata (Yellow Mongoose) ...... 27

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Criteria used to identify threatened terrestrial ecosystems ...... 4 Table 2: Summary of species associated with the secondary grassland (on old ploughed fields) ...... 14 Table 3: Summary of the vegetation associated with the Disturbed Natural Grasslands surrounding the study area ...... 15 Table 4: Summary of plant species associated the Disturbed Moist Grasslands surrounding the study area ...... 17 Table 5: Plant species of conservation concern, their conservation status, habitat requirement and likelihood of occurring in the study area ...... 18 Table 6: Provincially protected plants, the level at which they are protected and likelihood of occurring in the study area ...... 20 Table 7: Provincially protected plants, the level at which they are protected and likelihood of occurring in the study area ...... 21 Table 8: Medicinal plant species recorded in the study area ...... 24

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd vii Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

Table 9: Alien species recorded in the study area and surroundings, their common names, category and revised CARA/NEM:BA status ...... 25 Table 10: Bird species of conservation concern which are considered to have a medium likelihood of occurring in the areas surrounding the study area, their conservation status and notes ...... 26 Table 11: Threatened butterflies recorded in the Gauteng and Mpumalanga province, their conservation status, habitat requirements and likelihood of occurring in the study area...... 31 Table 12: Listing of descriptions for the extent of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating ...... 36 Table 13: Listing of descriptions for the duration of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating ...... 37 Table 14: Listing of descriptions for the intensity/severity of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating ...... 38 Table 15: Listing of descriptors for the intensity/severity of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating ...... 38 Table 16: Listing of descriptors for the significance score of an impact ...... 39 Table 17: Possible impacts associated with the construction of the substation and associated power lines ...... 40 Table 18: Destruction of natural vegetation including species of conservation concern, nationally protected plant species ...... 41 Table 19: Interference with faunal species and faunal activities...... 42 Table 20: Faunal electrocution ...... 44

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd viii Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

1 INTRODUCTION The Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit is proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, in the Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces. The power lines which are proposed will tie in and out of the proposed new substation. Details of the proposed lines are as follow: • The Rethabiseng-Rethabiseng North loop-in line which will be approximately 0.5km in length. This line will be a 132kV Kingbird line which will tie into the existing Rethabiseng-Gemsbok line; • The Rethabiseng North-Gemsbok loop-out line which will be approximately 0.5km in length. This line will be a 132kV Kingbird line which ties into the existing Rethabiseng-Gemsbok line 44-Establish Rethabiseng 132/11kV 2x20MVA Substation; • Substation location: West of Ekangala Township.

Three alternative sites for the substation have been identified by Eskom.

Gibb Engineering and Architecture, as independent environmental practitioners and ecological specialists, was appointed by Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd to undertake an ecological assessment of the area associated with the proposed Eskom Rethabiseng North substation and associated power lines.

1.1 Terms of Reference The terms of reference for the floral and faunal assessments (including avifauna) were as follows: • Provide a description of the dominant floral and faunal species occurring in the study area, including floral composition and structure; • List the threatened, endemic, rare or protected plant and animal species that could occur on the site, GPS those confirmed in the footprint of the substation alternatives and associated lines and indicate the confirmed localities on a map; • Map the sensitivities of ecological habitat associated with each alternative; and • Provide an impact assessment and recommend mitigation measures for species of conservation concern and other fauna and flora that may be affected by the proposed project.

1.2 Methodology The field surveys for the proposed substation alternatives and associated loop-in and loop-out lines were undertaken from the 24 th to the 27 th of November 2015. The methodology entailed the following: • Review of relevant literature, which included the vegetation unit(s) expected to occur on the site, the conservation status of the vegetation unit(s) and the distribution data of fauna within the study area;

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 1 Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409

• Review of available information layers within the Geographical Information System (GIS) including the Gauteng Conservation Plan and the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan; • Field surveys to confirm the presence or absence of threatened, endemic, rare or protected faunal and floral species on the study site and to identify suitable habitat for these species; and • Field surveys to determine the presence of avifaunal species which are vulnerable to collisions with power lines in the study area.

Further details regarding the methodology employed during the surveys are provided in Appendix A.

1.3 Limitations The following limitations were applicable to the study: • In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the biota on the site, studies should include investigations through different seasons, over a number of years and should include extensive sampling. Due to project time constraints, such long term research was not feasible, and information contained within the report is based on field surveys conducted in November 2015; • Due to the historical disturbance of the area as well as the small footprint of the proposed substation, natural areas surrounding the study area were also investigated. It should however be noted that no detailed surveys were conducted within the surrounding areas; and • The study area (including surrounding areas) was burned during the winter of 2015. The area has furthermore received well below average rainfall between September and November 2015. It is therefore highly likely that these conditions impacted on species diversity (faunal and floral) as well as species activity (faunal) at the time of the survey.

2 BACKGROUND 2.1 Location The study area is located immediately west of the Ekangala Settlement and approximately 16km north of Bronkhorstspruit. The study area straddles the Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces and lies within Quarter Degree Grid Cell (QDGC) 2528DA between 25°39’10.26” – 25°39’35.26” south and 28°43’04.01” – 28°43’09.38” east (Figure 1).

2.2 Climate The study area experiences a strong seasonal summer rainfall with dry winters with the mean annual precipitation between 550mm and 600mm. Frost is experienced fairly frequently with maximum temperatures in January up to 36ºC while the minimum in July drops to -0.4ºC (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006).

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2.3 Regional Vegetation The study area is situated within the Savanna and Grassland Biomes (Rutherford and Westfall, 1994). The Savanna Biome is the largest Biome in southern Africa, occupying over one-third of the surface area of South Africa (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). It is characterised by a grassy ground layer and a distinct upper layer of woody plants. Where this upper layer is near the ground the vegetation may be referred to as Shrubveld, where it is dense, as Woodland, and the intermediate stages are locally known as Bushveld (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). The Grassland Biome is characterized by high summer rainfall and dry winters. Frequent frost during the winter nights as well as marked diurnal temperature variations is unfavourable for tree growth resulting in the Grassland Biome consisting mainly of grasses and plants with perennial underground storage organs, such as bulbs and tubers. A large number of Rare and Threatened plant species in the summer rainfall regions of South Africa is restricted to high-rainfall grassland, making this the vegetation type in most urgent need of conservation.

Frost, fire and grazing within grasslands maintain the herbaceous grass and forb layer and prevent the establishment of thickets (Tainton, 1999). Fire is a natural disturbance caused by lightning, and natural fires (or controlled burning every 3 years or so) is therefore essential for maintaining the structure and biodiversity of this biome. However, if prevented due to activities such as agriculture and mining, thicket forming tree or alien species eventually dominate the natural vegetation and place an additional burden on already scarce resources such as water.

Biomes are further divided into smaller units known as vegetation types. According to Mucina & Rutherford (2006), the study area is situated within the Rand Highveld Grassland vegetation type while the Central Sandy Bushveld vegetation type is located west of the study area (Figure 2). The Rand Highveld Grassland vegetation type occurs in Gauteng, North-West, Free State and Mpumalanga provinces where it occurs in areas between rocky ridges. The landscape is highly variable and includes extensive sloping plains and a series of ridges which are slightly elevated over the surrounding plains. The vegetation is species rich and include graminoid species such as Ctenium concinnum, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria motodactyla, Diheteropogon amplectens, Eragrostis chloromelas, Heteropogon contortus, Loudetia simplex and Themeda triandra. Herbaceous species include Acanthospermum australe, Justicia anagalloides, Pollichia campestris, Chamaecrista mimosoides, Dicoma anomala, Helichrysum caespititium, Kohautia amatymbica, Macledium zeyheria, Nidorella hottentotica, Selago densiflora, Senecio coronatus, Vernonia oligocephala, Xerophyta retinervis and Sonchus dregeanus . Geophytic herbs include Boophone disticha, Cheilanthes hirta, Haemanthus humilis, Hypoxpis rigidula var. pilosissima and Ledebouria ovatifolia . The Rand Highveld Grassland vegetation type is currently listed as Endangered with less than 1% conserved in statutory reserves such as Kwaggavoetpad, Van Riebeeck Park, Bronkhorstspruit and Boskop Nature Reserves.

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Central Sandy Bushveld occurs in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Gauteng and North West provinces. The landscape is low and undulating with catenas and sandy plains supporting tall trees such as Terminalia sericea and Burkea africana while Combretum woodland dominates shallow soils. Acacia, Ziziphus and Euclea are found on eutrophic sands and less sandy soils (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). The Nationally Protected tree, Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra (Marula) is common in this vegetation type while endemic species include Mosdenia leptostachys and Oxygonum dregeanum subsp. canescens var. dissectum. According to Mucina & Rutherford (2006), Central Sandy Bushveld is classified as Vulnerable with less than 5% conserved and 24% transformed.

2.4 Listed Ecosystems and Centres of Endemism The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEM:BA) provides for listing threatened or protected ecosystems, in one of four categories: Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU) or Protected (Government Gazette, 2009). The main purpose of listing threatened ecosystems is to reduce the rate of ecosystem and species extinction and includes the prevention of further degradation and loss of structure, function and composition of threatened ecosystems.

Threatened terrestrial ecosystems have been delineated based on the following: • The South African Vegetation Map; • National forest types; • Priority areas identified in a provincial systematic biodiversity plan; or • High irreplaceability forest patches and clusters.

The criteria used for identifying threatened terrestrial ecosystems was done through extensive stakeholder engagement and based on the best available science. The criteria for thresholds for Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable ecosystems are summarized in Table 1.

Table 1: Criteria used to identify threatened terrestrial ecosystems

Criterion Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable A1: Irreversible loss Remaining natural h abitat Remaining natural habitat Remaining natural of natural habitat < biodiversity target < biodiversity target + habitat < 60% of 15% original area A2: Ecosystem > 60% of ecosystem > 40% of ecosystem > 20% of ecosystem degradation and loss significantly degraded significantly degraded significantly degraded of integrity C: Limited extent - Ecosystem extent < Ecosystem extent < and imminent threat 3000ha and imminent 6000ha and imminent threat threat D1: Threatened plant > 80 threatened Red List > 60 threatened Red List > 40 threatened Red species associations plant species plant species List plant species Priority areas for Very high irreplaceability Very high irreplac eability Very high biodiversity

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meeting explicit and high threat and medium threat and low threat biodiversity targets as defined in a systematic biodiversity plan

There are four main types of implications of listed ecosystems on development: • Planning related implications, linked to the requirement in NEM:BA for listed ecosystems to be taken into account in municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and (Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs); • Environmental authorisation implications, especially in terms of the NEMA and the 2010 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations; • Proactive management implications, in terms of the NEM:BA; and • Monitoring and reporting implications, in terms of the NEM:BA.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations include three lists of activities that require environmental authorisation: • Listing Notice 1: activities that require a basic assessment (R544 of 2010); • Listing Notice 2: activities that require scoping and environmental impact report (EIR)(R545 of 2010); • Listing Notice 3: activities that require a basic assessment in specific identified geographical areas only (R546 of 2010).

Activity No. 12 in Listing Notice 3 relates to the clearance of 300m² or more of vegetation, which will trigger a BA within any Critically Endangered or Endangered ecosystem listed in terms of Section 52 of the Biodiversity Act. This means any development that involves loss of natural habitat in a listed Critically Endangered or Endangered ecosystem is likely to require at least a BA in terms of the EIA Regulations. It is important to note that while the original extent of each listed ecosystem has been mapped, a BA in terms of the EIA Regulations is triggered only when development/ activities fall within the remaining natural habitat within each ecosystem and not in portions of the ecosystem where natural habitat has already been irreversibly lost, which is the case in the greater study area.

The study area falls within the Rand Highveld Grassland ecosystem (reference nr: Gm11) which is currently listed as Vulnerable in terms of Section 52 of NEM:BA (Government Gazette, 2011). The original extent of the ecosystem is 1 026 000ha with approximately 60% remaining with less than 1% protected. This ecosystem consists of a highly variable landscape ranging from extensive sloping plains to a series of ridges which are slightly elevated. The vegetation is generally species-rich with most common grasses on the plains belonging to the genera Themeda, Eragrostis, Heteropogon and Elionurus . Rocky hills and ridges carry sparse woodlands with Protea caffra subsp. caffra, P. welwitchii, Acacia caffra and Celtis africana . At least 5 endemic plant species occur in the Rand Highveld Grassland ecosystem.

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Figure 1: Locality of the study area

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Figure 2: Regional vegetation in relation to the study area

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2.5 Provincial Conservation Plans The study area falls within the Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces. Each Province has its own Conservation Plan, these are discussed below.

2.5.1 Gauteng Conservation Plan Alternative 2 was situated within Gauteng. The Gauteng Biodiversity Conservation Plan (C-Plan) was started in 2000 and the aim was to revise this plan at least every five years. The small size of Gauteng province made it feasible to conduct extensive biodiversity surveys which aimed to provide the information on spatial occurrence of biodiversity which was necessary for conservation planning. C-Plan 3 is based on the principles of complementarity, efficiency, defensibility and flexibility, irreplaceability, retention, persistence and accountability (GDARD, 2012).

Knowledge of the distribution of biodiversity, the conservation status of species, approaches for dealing with aspects such as climate change, methods of data analysis, and the nature of threats to biodiversity within the planning region, are constantly changing, especially in Gauteng province where development is taking place at a rapid rate. The main purposes of the C-Plan 3 are: • To serve as the primary decision support tool for the biodiversity component of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process; • To inform protected area expansion and biodiversity stewardship programmes within the province; and • To serve as a basis for development of Bioregional Plans in municipalities within the province.

The C-Plan 3 considers the following biodiversity features: • Plants (Including priority ranking of species of conservation concern in Gauteng); • Bird habitat models; • Invertebrates; • Fish; • Herpetofauna; • Pan clusters; • Near pristine quaternary catchments; • Bioclimatic zones; • Carbon sequestration; and • Primary vegetation.

The C-Plan also makes provision for Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA’s) and Ecological Support Areas (ESA’s). According to the Gauteng C-Plan, Alternative 2 is not located within a CBA or ESA, although there is a CBA located approximately 800m south of Alternative 2 (Figure 3). This CBA includes a pan which is considered to provide suitable habitat for Tyto capensis (Grass Owl).

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2.5.2 Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan A Provincial Conservation Plan aims to build on national plans at the provincial level. It is intended to be used by all who are involved in land-use and development planning, most particularly those specialists who need a comprehensive source of biodiversity information. The plan, and resulting land-use guidelines, are intended to supplement other spatial planning tools such as municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs).

The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (MBSP) is an updated version of The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Conservation Plan (MBCP) and consists of a comprehensive environmental inventory and spatial plan that is intended to guide conservation and land use decisions in support of sustainable development. However, both the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Conservation Plan (MBCP) as well as the updated Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (MBSP) have been created using spatial data and in many cases have not been ground-truthed.

An integral part of the MBSP is the terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Area map, which was developed using systematic biodiversity planning methodology, following the approaches of Margules and Pressey (2000) and Ardron et al . (2010). The data were analysed using specialised GIS-based software, which calculates the most efficient selection of planning units required to meet all biodiversity targets, while favouring persistence and avoiding areas of competing land-uses. The two key elements of the analysis are (1) identifying the best or optimal selection of planning units to meet targets, and (2) calculating an ‘irreplaceability’ value, which assesses the importance of a particular site for meeting biodiversity targets. These values are used to inform the selection of sites for inclusion in the categories shown on the CBA map.

The categories used in the CBA map are as follows: • Protected areas (PAs): Areas that are already proclaimed under national or provincial legislation, including gazetted biodiversity stewardship sites. • Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs): Areas that are required to meet biodiversity targets for species, ecosystems or ecological processes. These need to be kept in a natural or near-natural state, with no further loss of habitat or species. This category is split into: o CBA: Irreplaceable – Areas required to meet targets and with irreplaceability values of more than 80% (i.e. there are little of these features remaining in a natural state). They are also critical linkages in the landscape that must remain natural, and/or Critically Endangered ecosystems below their biodiversity target. o CBA: Optimal – (Previously called “Important and Necessary”) planning units optimally located to meet biodiversity targets and other criteria defined in the analysis. Although these areas are not ‘irreplaceable’ they are the most efficient land configuration to meet all biodiversity conservation targets and design criteria. • Ecological Support Areas (ESAs): Areas that are not essential for meeting biodiversity targets, but that play an important role in supporting the functioning

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of PAs or CBAs and for delivering ecosystem services. In the terrestrial assessment they support landscape connectivity and strengthen resilience to climate change. ESAs need to be maintained in at least a functional and often natural state, supporting the purpose for which they were identified. They include features such as riparian habitat surrounding rivers or wetlands, corridors etc. • Other Natural Areas (ONAs): Areas that have not been identified as a priority in the current systematic biodiversity plan but retain most of their natural character and perform a range of biodiversity and ecological infrastructural functions. Although they have not been prioritised for biodiversity now, they are still an important part of the natural ecosystem. • Moderately or Heavily Modified Areas: (Sometimes called ‘transformed’) areas that have been modified by human activity so that they are no longer natural, and do not contribute to biodiversity targets. These areas may still provide limited biodiversity and ecological infrastructural functions, even if they are never prioritised for conservation action. Their biodiversity value has been significantly compromised.

According to the latest Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan, the Preferred Alternative as well as Alternative 1 are located in “Moderately or Heavily Modified Areas, while areas to the west of the study area were classified as Other Natural Areas (Figure 3).

3 RESULTS: FLORA 3.1 Overview The study area consisted of three substation alternatives including the associated loop-in and loop-out lines. The three substation alternatives were located in close proximity of each other and confined to an area of approximately 37ha (374,604m²). Historical imagery (Google Earth, 2015) indicated that the area associated with the Preferred Substation as well as Alternative 1 was ploughed in 2004 (Figure 4). However, during the field survey it was clear that the area associated with Alternative 2 was also ploughed probably prior to 2004 (Google Earth historical imagery only dates back to 2004).

During the field survey, areas surrounding the study area were also verified to determine the impact of the project on a larger scale. The vegetation units within the larger area included secondary grassland (on old ploughed fields), moist grasslands and disturbed natural grasslands. These vegetation units are illustrated in Figure 5 and described below. All the plant species which were recorded during the present study are listed in Appendix A.

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Figure 3: The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan and Gauteng Conservation Plan in relation to the study area

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Figure 4: Google Earth Imagery from 2004 indicating the ploughed fields within the study area

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Figure 5: Vegetation units associated with the study area

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3.1.1 Secondary Grassland (old ploughed fields) All three alternatives were located within the secondary grasslands which consisted of historically ploughed fields. These areas were burnt during winter and due to the low rainfall preceding the field survey, the vegetation layer was mostly undeveloped. Despite this, the area appeared to support limited floral species (Photo Plate 1). On the boundary between the secondary grassland and disturbed natural grasslands there was marginally more indigenous herbaceous species, as these species were recolonizing the secondary grassland. These included pioneer species such as Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Ledebouria sp., Seriphium plumosum, Solanum incanum and S. panduriforme. Although threatened plant species including Boophone disticha (currently listed as Declining) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (currently listed as Declining) were confirmed in the disturbed natural grasslands surrounding the secondary grassland, these species were not confirmed in the footprint of the proposed substation alternatives. Table 2 summarizes the species associated with secondary grasslands in the study area.

Photo Plate 1: Secondary grassland within the study area

Table 2: Summary of species associated with the secondary grassland (on old ploughed fields) Indigenous species at the time of the survey: Herbaceous species : Elephantorrhiza elephantina Ledebouria sp. Seriphium plumosum Solanum panduriforme

Grass species Melinis repens Eragrostis sp. Cynodon dactylon Plants of conservation concern confirmed to occur: None Plants of conservation concern for which suitable habitat was None observed: Provincially protected pl ants confirmed to occur: None Provincially protected plants for which suitable habitat was found: None

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Nationally protected tree species confirmed: None Alien species: Campuloclinium macrocephalum Verbena bonariensis Acacia mearnsii

3.1.2 Disturbed Natural Grasslands Disturbed natural grasslands were recorded north, west and east of the proposed alternatives and associated lines (Figure 6). Since these areas were not historically ploughed, they supported higher floral species diversity including Protea welwitschii (White Sugar Bush), Pygamaethamnus chamaedendrum and Senecio sp. (Photo Plate 2). Six provincially protected species, Aloe greatheadii var. davyana (Protected in Mpumalanga) , Boophone disticha (Protected in Mpumalanga and Gauteng) , Crinum graminicola (Protected in Mpumalanga) , Gladiolus sp. (Protected in Mpumalanga), Protea welwitschii (Protected in Mpumalanga) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Protected in Mpumalanga and Gauteng) were confirmed in this vegetation unit. Table 3 summarizes the vegetation associated with the Disturbed Natural Grasslands surrounding the study area.

Photo Plate 2: Disturbed natural grassland adjacent to the study area

Table 3: Summary of the vegetation associated with the Disturbed Natural Grasslands surrounding the study area

Indigenous species at the time of the survey: Herbaceous species : Elephantorrhiza elephantina Hypoxis acuminate Pygamaethanmus chamaedendrum

Trees and shrubs: Acacia karroo Protea welwitschii Plants of conservation concern confirmed to occur: Boophone disticha (Declining) Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Declining) Plants of conservation concern for which suitable habitat Argyrolobium megarrhizum

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was observed: Provincially protecte d plants confirmed to occur: Provincially Protected: Gauteng Boophone disticha Hypoxis hemerocallidea

Provincially Protected: Mpumalanga Aloe greatheadii vary. davyana Boophone disticha Crinum graminicola Gladiolus sp. Protea welwitchii Additional p rovin cially protected plants for which suitable Gauteng: habitat was found: None

Mpumalanga: Cyrtanthus spp. Eucomis autumnalis Scilla spp. Watsonia spp. Orchidaceae Nationally protected tree species confirmed: None Alien species: Acacia mearnsii Bidens pilosa Campuloclinium macrocephalum Verbena bonariensis

3.1.3 Moist Grassland Moist Grasslands (disturbed) included a seasonal pan approximately 800m south and moist grasslands 500m west of the study area (Figure 5; Photo Plate 3). Due to the dry conditions preceding the field survey, the seasonal pan south of the study area was dry at the time of the survey. However, this pan is likely to provide suitable habitat for faunal species of conservation concern including Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl; currently listed nationally as Vulnerable) and Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog; currently listed as Vulnerable in Mpumalanga and protected at a national level according to NEM:BA). This pan is furthermore classified as a CBA according to the latest Gauteng C-Plan (see Section 2.5.1).

The moist grasslands west of the study area were disturbed and dominated by alien plant species such as Acacia mearnsii and Populus x canescens , with the graminoid and herbaceous layers largely dormant. No plant species of conservation concern or provincially protected plant species were recorded in the Disturbed Moist Grassland at the time of the survey. Table 4 summarizes the vegetation associated with the areas classified as Disturbed Moist Grasslands.

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Photo Plate 3: A seasonal pan south of the study area (a) and Disturbed Moist Grasslands to the west of the study area (b)

Table 4: Summary of plant species associated the Disturbed Moist Grasslands surrounding the study area

Indigeno us species at the time of the survey: Grasses: Graminoid layer was dormant at the time of the survey

Herbs None at the time of the survey Plants of conservation concern confirmed to None occur: Additional p lants of conservation concern for None which suitable habitat was observed: Provincially protected plants confirmed to occur: None Provincially protected plants for which suitable Gauteng: habitat was found: Crinum bulbispermum C. macowanii

Mpumalanga: Crinum spp. Orchidaceae Eucomis autumnalis Cyrtanthus spp. Nationally protected tree species confirmed: None Alien species: Acacia mearnsii Populus x canescens Campuloclinium macrocephalum

3.2 Plants of Conservation Concern Plants of conservation concern are those plants that are important for South Africa’s conservation decision making processes. A plant taxon is of conservation concern when it is considered to be threatened, or close to becoming threatened with extinction and therefore classified as Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 17 Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409 or Near Threatened. These plants are nationally protected by the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004). Within the context of this report, plants that are Declining, Rare and Data Deficient (Taxonomic and Distribution) are also referenced under this heading. Rare and Endangered species are mostly small, very localized and visible for only a few weeks in the year when they flower (Ferrar and Lötter, 2007). As these plants might not have been visible at the time of the field survey, the probabilities of occurrence for these plants were based on distribution data and information gathered concerning the area.

The Plants of Southern Africa (POSA) website provides taxonomic information which is drawn from the National Herbarium Pretoria Computerised Information System (PRECIS) for plant species occurring in South Africa. Although this database can be used as a guide to establish if any species of conservation concern have been recorded in the QDGC, it is not a comprehensive list of all species occurring in the QDGC. According to Raimondo et al. (2009) and the Plants of Southern Africa (POSA, 2015), eight plant species of conservation concern have been recorded in QDGC 2528DA. In addition to these eight species, two species, namely Boophone disticha (currently listed as Declining) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (currently listed as Declining), were confirmed within in the disturbed natural grasslands to the north and west of the study area during the present study. No species of conservation concern were confirmed within any of the substation alternatives and associated lines. All the species of conservation concern, their current conservation status, habitat requirements and likelihood of occurring in the study area is summarized in Table 5.

Table 5: Plant species of conservation concern, their conservation status, habitat requirement and likelihood of occurring in the study area Scientific Name Conservation Status Habitat Requirements Likelihood o f occurring in the study area Andromischus Near Threatened South facing rock Low umbraticola subsp. crevices and ridges, umbraticola restricted to Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld Argyrolobium Near Threatened Between Pretoria and Low within the footprint megarrhizum Bronkhorstspruit in of the proposed mixed Bushveld. This substation alternatives, species only flowers profusely after fire. although it could occur in the natural disturbed grasslands surrounding the study area Boophone disticha Declining Widesp read in grassland Confirmed in the and open woodland disturbed natural grassland surrounding the study area, but not recorded in the footprint of any of the substation alternatives Frithia humilis Endangered Very shallow soils Low derived from coarse sediments, Irrigasie

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Formation of the Ecca group. Habenaria bicolor Near Threatened Restricted to Low Suikerbosrand and Rietvlei Nature Reserves where it occurs in well- drained grasslands Hypoxis hemerocallidea Declining Widespread in grassland Confirmed in the disturbed natural grassland surrounding the study area, but not recorded in the footprint of any of the substation alternatives Ilex mitis var. mitis Declining Along rivers and streams Low along forests and thickets but also out in the open Searsia g racillima var. Near Threatened Endemic to Gauteng Low gracillima where it is restricted to a small area to the northeast of Pretoria. Occurs on rocky quartzitic outcrops in bushveld Stenostelma Near Threatened Deep black turf in open Low umbelluliferum woodland, usually associated with marshes

3.3 Provincially Protected Plants

3.3.1 Provincially Protected Plants – Gauteng A number of plant species have been classified as Orange and Red List species by the Department: Agriculture and Rural Development for Gauteng Province (GDARD, 2012). Most of these species occur in specialized habitats such as wetlands, marshes, ridges and pristine grassland. Two provincially protected species, Boophone disticha and Hypoxis hemerocallidea, were confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area. These species were however not confirmed in the footprint of any of the substation alternatives or associated lines at the time of the survey. Although the dry conditions preceding the field survey could have impacted on the visibility of floral species, the high level of historical disturbance associated with the study area makes it highly unlikely that any of these species will occur within the footprint of any of the substation alternatives or the associated lines. The provincially protected species, protection level and likelihood of occurring in areas surrounding the study area are summarized in Table 6. Due to the historical disturbances (ploughed fields) associated with the study area, these areas are not suitable for any of these species.

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Table 6: Provincially protected plants, the level at which they are protected and likelihood of occurring in the study area Scientific Name Protection Likelihood of occurring in the areas Level surrounding the study area Andromischus umbraticola subsp . umbraticola Species Unlikely Alepidea attenuata Species Unlikely Aloe peglerae Species Zero Argyrolobium campicola Species Unlikely Argyrolobium megarrhizum Species Unlikely Blepha ris uniflora Species Unlikely Boophone disticha Species Confirmed in Disturbed Dry Grassland surrounding the study area Bowiea volubilis subsp . volubilis Species Unlikely Brachycorythis conica subsp . transvaalensis Species Unlikely Brachystelma discoid eum Species Unlikely Callilepis leptophylla Species Likely Ceropegia decidua subsp. pretoriensis Species Unlikely Ceropegia turricula Species Unlikely Cheilanthes deltoidea subsp. nov. Species Unlikely Cineraria austrotransvaalensis Species Unlikely Cineraria longipes Species Unlikely Cleome conrathii Species Unlikely Crinum bulbispermum Species Likely Crinum macowanii Species Likely Cucumis humifructus Species Unlikely Delosperma gautengense Species Unlikely Delosperma leendertziae Species Unli kely Delosperma macellum Species Unlikely Dioscorea sylvatica Species Unlikely Drimia altissima Species Unlikely Drimia sanguinea Species Unlikely Encephalartos middelburgensis Species Zero Eucomis autumnalis Species Likely Eulophia coddii Species Unlikely Frithia humilis Species Unlikely Frithia pulchra Species Unlikely Gladiolus pole -evansii Species Unlikely Gladiolus robertsoniae Species Unlikely Gnaphalium nelsonii Species Unlikely Gunnera perpensa Species Unlikely Habenaria barbertoni Spe cies Unlikely

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Habenaria bicolor Species Unlikely Habenaria kraenzliniana Species Unlikely Habenaria mossii Species Unlikely Holothrix randii Species Likely Hypoxis hemerocallidea Species Confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Ilex mitis var mitis Species Unlikely Khadia beswickii Species Unlikely Kniphofia typhoides Species Unlikely Lepidium mossii Species Unlikely Lithops lesliei subsp . lesliei Species Unlikely Lithops lesliei subsp . lesliei var. rubrobrunnea Spe cies Unlikely Macledium pretoriense Species Unlikely Melolobium subspicatum Species Unlikely Nerine gracilis Species Unlikely Prunus africana Species Unlikely Searsia gracillima var . gracillima Species Unlikely Stenostelma umbelluliferum Species Unli kely Trachyandra erythrorrhiza Species Unlikely

3.3.2 Provincially Protected Plants - Mpumalanga Five species that were identified in the areas surrounding the study area are protected under Schedule 11 of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act, 1998 (Act No. 10 of 1998). None of these species were confirmed in the footprint of any of the substation alternatives. Although it is unlikely that the development will impact on these species, it is important to note that the destruction or removal of these species will require a permit from Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. All the species (including genus or family) which are protected in Mpumalanga, their protection level and likelihood of occurring in the study area, are listed in Table 7 and some of the species are illustrated in Photo Plate 4.

Table 7: Provincially protected plants, the level at which they are protected and likelihood of occurring in the study area

Scientific Name Protection Level Likelihood of occurri ng in the study area Adenia Genus Unlikely Adenium Genus Zero Agapanthus Genus Unlikely Aloe All Aloe species naturally Confirmed in the Disturbed Natural occurring in Mpumalanga Grasslands surrounding the study area A. greatheadii var. davyana Amm ocharis coranica Species Unlikely

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Berchemia zeyheri Species Zero Bersamia tysoniana Species Zero Boophone disticha Species Confirmed in the Disturbed Dry Grasslands surrounding the study area Bowiea volubilis Species Unlikely Brachystelma spp. Whole g enus Unlikely Brunsvigia Genus Likely Cassipourea gerrardii Species Zero Ceropegia Genus Unlikely Clivia Genus Zero Crinum Genus Crinum graminidola c onfirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grasslands surrounding the study area Curtisia dentata Species Zero Cyathea capensis and C. Species Zero dregei Cyrtanthus Genus Likely in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Dioscorea Genus Unlikely Duvalia Genus Unlikely Encephalartos spp. Genus Zero Eucomis Genus Eucomis autumnalis is like ly in the Disturbed Moist Grasslands surrounding the study area Euphorbia bernardii and E. Species Zero grandialata Gladiolus Genus Confirmed in Disturbed Natural Grassland adjacent to the study area

Haemanthus Genus Unlikely Haworthia Genus Zero Hes perantha coccinea Species Unlikely Huernia Genus Unlikely Kniphofia sp. Genus Unlikely Ocotea Genus Zero Olea Genus Unlikely Orbea Genus Unlikely Orbeanthus Genus Unlikely Orchidaceae Family Highly Likely in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Pachypodium saundersii Species Zero Podocarpus Genus Zero Proteaceae Family Confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland adjacent to the study area: P.

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welwitschii Pterocarpus angolensis Species Zero Scadoxis Genus Unlikely Schizoba sis intricata Species Zero Scilla Genus Highly Likely in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Siphonochilus aethiopicus Species Zero Spirostachys africana Species Unlikely Stapelia Genus Unlikely Warburgia salutaris Species Zero Watsonia Genus Likely in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Zantedeschia Genus Unlikely

Photo Plate 4: Provincially protected species confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area included (a) Gladiolus sp., (b), Boophone disticha , (c) Crinum graminicola, and (d) Protea welwitschii

3.4 Medicinal Plants The demand for medicinal plants is on the increase while the frequently used species and the communal land that it is harvested from, are on the decline. With an increase

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 23 Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409 in the country’s population and the high rate of infectious diseases, this will put an even higher strain on the already scarce natural medicinal resources (Emery et al. , 2002). Areas of high biodiversity are thus important for the conservation and sustainable use of these resources and should be protected. Plants species with known medicinal uses recorded in the areas surrounding the study area is summarised in Table 8.

Table 8: Medicinal plant species recorded in the study area

Scientific Name Conservation Status Locality in study area Acacia karroo LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Boophone disticha Declining, Provincially Protected Disturbed Natu ral Grassland surrounding the study area Elephantorrhiza elephantina LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Gomphocarpus fruticosa LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Lantana rugosa LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Hypoxis hemerocallidea Declining; Provincially Protected Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Hypoxis iridifolia LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area Ledebouria sp. LC Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding the study area

3.5 Alien and Invasive Plants Declared weeds and invaders have the tendency to dominate or replace the herbaceous layer of natural ecosystems, thereby transforming the structure, composition and function of natural ecosystems. Therefore, it is important that all these transformers (as defined above) be eradicated and controlled by means of an eradication and monitoring programme. Some invader plants may also degrade ecosystems through superior competitive capabilities to exclude native plant species (Henderson, 2001).

The amended Regulations (Regulation 15) of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983) (CARA) identifies three categories of problem plants: • Category 1 plants may not occur on any land other than a biological control reserve and must be controlled or eradicated. Therefore, no person shall establish, plant, maintain, propagate or sell/import any category 1 plant species; • Category 2 plants are plants with commercial application and may only be cultivated in demarcated areas (such as biological control reserves) otherwise they must be controlled; and

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• Category 3 plants are ornamentally used plants and may no longer be planted, except those species already in existence at the time of the commencement of the regulations (30 March 2001), unless they occur within 30m of a 1:50 year flood line and must be prevented from spreading.

The following categories have been revised for CARA and NEM:BA: • Category 1a plants are high-priority emerging species requiring compulsory control. All breeding, growing, moving and selling are banned. • Category 1b plants are widespread invasive species controlled by a management programme. • Category 2 plants are invasive species controlled by area. Can be grown under permit conditions in demarcated areas. All breeding, growing, moving, and selling are banned without a permit. • Category 3 plants are ornamental and other species that are permitted on a property but may no longer be planted or sold.

Seven different alien species were recorded in the study area and surroundings. However, due to the dry conditions and recent fires, some of the pioneer alien species might have been dormant at the time of the survey. Table 9 summarises the alien species recorded in the study area and surroundings.

Table 9: Alien species recorded in the study area and surroundings, their common names, category and revised CARA/NEM:BA status

Scientific name Common name Category CARA/NEM :BA

Acacia mearnsi i Black Wattle Invader 2 Bidens pilosa Black Jack Weed None Campuloclinium Pom pom weed Weed 1b macrocephalum Populus x Poplar Invader 2 canescens Salix babylonica Invader 2 Verbena aristigera Wild Verbena None None Verbena bonariensis Fine -leaved V erbena None 1b

4 RESULTS: FAUNA 4.1 Faunal Habitats At the time of the survey, faunal habitat within the footprint of proposed substation alternatives and associated lines was limited to secondary grassland. Dry conditions preceding the field survey, as well as fires during winter resulted in limited cover for faunal species (Photo Plate 5). The areas surrounding the proposed substation alternatives and associated lines included Natural Grasslands and Moist Grasslands (all disturbed). These surrounding areas provided slightly more faunal habitat,

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Photo Plate 5: Faunal habitat within the footprint of the proposed substation alternatives and associated lines

4.2 Faunal Species Occurrence 4.2.1 Avifauna The area has a high avifaunal diversity with approximately 471 bird species confirmed within QDGC 2528DA and in the region of the study area according to Roberts Multimedia version 7 (2011) and the South African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP) 1 and 2. During the field survey, 14 bird species were confirmed to occur within the study area and immediate surroundings, none of which were of conservation concern (Appendix B). However, due to the dry conditions and limited vegetation cover at the time of the survey, it is likely that this was not representative of the avifaunal diversity likely to occur, especially in the areas surrounding the study area (Disturbed Natural Grassland and Disturbed Moist Grasslands). Nevertheless, high avifaunal diversity is not expected in the study area (the footprint of the proposed substation alternatives) due to limited habitat, small size and close proximity to roads and human settlements.

Thirty four species of conservation concern have been recorded from the QDGC, none of which were confirmed during the survey period (Appendix C). Due to the small size of the study area, low habitat diversity and close proximity of roads and human settlements, none of the species are highly likely to occur in the study area. However, four species of conservation concern were considered to have a medium likelihood of occurring in the areas surrounding the study area (Table 10).

Table 10: Bird species of conservation concern which are considered to have a medium likelihood of occurring in the areas surrounding the study area, their conservation status and notes Scientific Name Common Name Conservation Notes Status Glar eola nordmanni Black -winged Near Could occur in Disturbed Natural and Pranticole Threatened Disturbed Moist Grasslands adjacent to the

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(Regional) study area Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark Near Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding Threatened the study area. Due to the dormant (Global) vegetation layer, habitat suitability for this species could not be determined at the time of the survey Rostratula Greater Painted NT Alternative 3 . The man made dam 200m benghalensis Snipe south of Alternative 3. Sagittarius Secretary Bird Vulnerable Disturbed Natural Grassland surrounding serpentarius (Regional & the study area Global)

4.2.2 Mammals The region displays a moderate diversity of mammals with approximately 85 species expected to occur within the geographical area associated with the study area (IUCN, 2011). These species are listed in Appendix D along with the probability of each species occurring in the study area as well as their national conservation status (Friedmann and Daly, 2004). Due to the close proximity of human settlements as well as limited habitat diversity, mammal activity was expected to be very low within the study area and the surroundings. Only two faunal species, namely Cryptomys hottentotus (African Mole Rat) and Cynictis penicillata (Yellow Mongoose), were confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grasslands which were located north, west and south of the substation alternatives and the associated lines (Photo Plate 6). An additional 15 species were given a high likelihood of occurring in the study area as well as the immediate surroundings based on the presence of suitable habitat. One of which is of conservation concern namely Atelerix frontalis (South African Hedgehog; currently listed as Near Threatened).

Photo Plate 6: Mammal species confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland adjacent to the study area included (a) soil heaps indicating the presence of Cryptomys hottentotus (African Mole Rat) and, (b) Cynictis penicillata (Yellow Mongoose)

Bats are highly adaptable to their environment with 116 species recorded throughout South Africa. Of these 116 species, five species are globally listed as Vulnerable, 17

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Near Threatened, 14 Data Deficient and 3 have not been evaluated (Monadjem et al., 2010). Bats can be divided into three groups based on their foraging ecology which includes: • Frugivores: Also referred to as pteropids, these species feed on fruits, leaves, flowers and nectar of a wide range of indigenous trees such as Ficus and Podocarpus as well as cultivated trees such as papayas, avocados, litchis, bananas and dates; • Carnivores: Only a small number of species are carnivorous and feed on smaller vertebrates such as frogs, fish, mice, birds and other bats; and • Insectivores: More than 70% of bats wold wide are insectivores and feed on a wide range of insects with different species usually specializing in certain insect groups. The aerial hunters such as the families Vespertilionidae, Emballonuridae and Molossidae, hunt flying insects exclusively on the wing while families such as Hipposideridae and Rhinolophidae capture stationary prey from branches or on the ground and these species are capable of slow, manoeuvrable flight.

Different species of bats roosts in various places during the day, a short summary of which is provided below: • Foliage-roosting species: Most Pteropodidae, which includes fruit bats hang or cling onto surfaces in trees or shrubs; • Hollow-roosting and Crevice-roosting species : These species occupy underground caves, hollows in trees, and anthropogenic hollows such as roofs and basements of houses, tunnels or other cavities such as abandoned mine shafts; and • Specialised roost sites : Night roosts or feeding stations which provide temporary shelter are often used by cave-dwelling bats and this usually includes open structures such as garages, outhouses, thatched game hides, culverts under roads and eaves of buildings.

Twenty two Chiroptera species have been confirmed to occur within the geographical area associated with the study area based on known localities and presence of suitable habitat (IUCN, 2015) (Appendix E). However, since the field survey was conducted during daylight hours, the presence of these species within the study area could not be confirmed. The study area does however provide suitable habitat and/or roosting sites for at least three species, Neoromica capensis, Tadaridia aegyptiaca and Taphozous mauritianus , none of which are currently listed as threatened.

4.2.3 Herpetofauna Amphibians According to Minter et al . (2004), 13 amphibian species have been confirmed to occur within QDGC 2528DA, one of these, Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog) is currently globally listed as Least Concern but Vulnerable in Mpumalanga and protected at a national level according to NEM:BA (Appendix F). Although the dry conditions were experienced at the time of the survey, no temporary pans, marshes

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 28 Eskom Rethabiseng North Substation and associated lines: Ecological Assessment J35409 or any other water bodies were observed in the footprint of any of the substation alternatives. However, a large seasonal pan was located approximately 800m south of the study area, and it is highly likely that high amphibian activity and/or diversity will be present in this pan during higher rainfall periods. In addition to this, this seasonal pan as well as the surrounding areas (up to 1km away from the pan) is considered suitable for Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog) (Photo Plate 3; Figure 6). Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrogs) spend up to 11 months under ground in a dormant state and only emerges after sufficient rainfall during October – November (Yetman and Ferguson, 2011).

Reptiles According to ReptileMAP, a continuation of the Southern African Reptile Conservation Assessment (SARCA) (ADU, 2015), 25 reptile species have been confirmed to occur within QDGC 2528DA, none of which are of conservation concern (Appendix G). Only one species, Nucras holubi (Holub’s Sandveld Lizard), was confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland to the north and west of the study area. Reptiles are highly adaptable and will readily tolerate human disturbances. In addition to this food and rubbish associated with human settlements commonly attract rodent species, which in turn could lead to an increase in snake activity in the area. Based on this, an additional ten (Appendix G) reptile species were given a high likelihood of occurring in the areas surrounding the study area, none of which were of conservation concern.

4.2.4 Lepidoptera South Africa is home to approximately 666 species of butterflies (Woodhall, 2005). Butterflies, like most invertebrates are highly sensitive to environmental change making them more Vulnerable to the presence of toxins in the ecosystem. The most significant causes of habitat loss for butterflies include invasive alien vegetation, changing fire regimes, agricultural activities, urbanisation, plantation forestry, increased grazing and road construction (Henning et al. , 2009).

According to Henning et al . (2009), 211 Lepidoptera species have been recorded in the Gauteng Province, of which six are species of conservation concern. Higher Lepidoptera diversity is associated with Mpumalanga with 367 recorded species, 11 of which are of conservation concern (Henning et al., 2009). Due to a lack of suitable habitat only one species, Metisella meninx (Marsh Sylph; currently listed as Rare) was given a medium likelihood of occurring in the Moist Grasslands to the west of the development footprint. The species of conservation concern (Gauteng and Mpumalanga), together with the likelihood of occurring within the footprint of the proposed substation alternatives (and associated lines) are summarized in Table 11.

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Figure 6: The locality of the seasonal pan in relation to the study area

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Table 11: Threatened butterflies recorded in the Gauteng and Mpumalanga province, their conservation status, habitat requirements and likelihood of occurring in the study area Scientific Name Conservation Habitat requirements Likelihood of occurring Status in study area Aloe ides barbarae Endangered Mpumalanga: Known only from type Low locality around the town of Baberton where it is found in grassy hilltops with sparsely strewn rocks in remnant Baberton Montane Grassland Aloeides dentatis dentatis Vulnerable Gauteng: Known o nly from Roodepoort Low and Heidelberg and found in Carletonville Dolomite Grassland Aloeides nubilus Endangered Mpumalanga: Found on the Longtom Low Pass (Sabie) and Mount Sheba Nature Reserve where it is recorded on ridges on mist-belt fire-climax grassland in Lydenburg Montane Grassland Aloeides rossouwi Endangered Mpumalanga: Known from only a single Low surviving colony in the vicinity of Stoffberg where adults are flying in rocky gullies in Sekhukhune Montane Grassland Chrysoritis aureus Vulnerable Gauteng: Near Heidelberg. Species Low require a very stable environment consisting of south facing well-drained slopes Chrysoritis aureus Vulnerable Gauteng: Near Heidelberg. Species Low require a very stable environment consisting of south facing well-drained slopes Dingana fraterna Endangered Mpumalanga: Known only from type Low locality which is south west of Stoffberg where it is found between 1600 and 1700m in grassy patches amongst Protea species Lepidochrysops irvingi Vulnerable Mpumalanga: Found in a few patches Low of montane grassland in northern Swaziland and northeastern Mpumalanga near Graskop, Sabie and Nelshoogte where it utilizes Baberton Montane Grassland Lepidochrysops jefferyi Endangered Mpumalanga: Known only from the Low Baberton district of Mpumalanga where it is found in remnant patches of Baberton Montane Grassland Lepidochrysops praeterita Endangered Gauteng: Only found in a few koppies Low and rocky areas between

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Potchefstroom and the North West Province Lepidochrysops rosso uwi Vulnerable Mpumalanga: Found on the grassy Low escarpment in Lydenburg and Stoffberg areas where it is found in Lydenburg Montane Grassland Lepidochrysops Vulnerable Mpumalanga: Occurs in Baberton Low swanepoeli districts of Mpumalanga where it is found on grassy peaks with residual Baberton Montane Grassland Biome Metisella meninx Rare Mpumalanga and Gauteng: Species Medium. This spe cies inhabits marshes in wetlands located in could occur in the Moist open grasslands. The presence of the Grassland to the west of host plant, Leersia hexandra is the substation essential alternatives and associated lines. Orachrysops mijburghi Vulnerable Gauteng: Occurs in Central Free State Low Grassland and Dry Highveld Grassland Bioregions where it is restricted to a few south-facing grassy slopes Platylesches dolomitica Vulnerable Gauteng : R ecorded from Carletonville Low and Hillshaven and is a habitat specialist of dolomite ridges in bushveld Platylesches dolomitica Vulnerable Gauteng : Recorded from Carletonville Low and Hillshaven and is a habitat specialist of dolomite ridges in Bushveld and Sour Highveld Grassland

5 ECOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY The site was assessed in terms of its conservation importance from a biodiversity (floral and faunal) perspective, as well as the ecological sensitivity and connectivity to other natural areas of the site to the proposed activity. Ecosystem services provided by the site are also discussed within the relevant sections.

Ecological Sensitivity: The ecological sensitivity was assessed in terms of the sensitivity of the ecosystem to the proposed project, which includes the construction of a substation as well as the associated loop-in and loop-out power line route. The sensitivity classes were based on the following criteria:

High – Includes sensitive vegetation communities, faunal species or other biodiversity aspects with either low inherent resistance or resilience towards disturbance factors, or species that are considered important for the maintenance of ecosystem integrity. The biodiversity recorded on site is highly sensitive to the proposed infrastructure development and the proposed development is likely to result in significant loss of biodiversity.

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Medium – The biodiversity recorded on site has a medium sensitivity in relation to the proposed project and it is likely that the majority of the species recorded will persist if the proposed activity is approved. Although ecosystems will be affected, it is likely that ecosystems will continue to function provided that recommended mitigation measures are implemented.

Low - The biodiversity recorded within the study area has a low sensitivity towards the proposed development and species recorded within the area are likely to persist despite the development, while ecosystems are highly likely to continue function.

Conservation Importance: The conservation importance of the site gives an indication of the necessity to conserve areas based on factors such as the importance of the site on a national and/or provincial scale and on the ecological state of the area (degraded or pristine). This is determined by the presence of high species diversity, species of conservation importance or endemic species and areas considered to be of conservation importance (e.g. Critical Biodiversity Areas, Ecological Support Areas, informal or formal protected areas) or important corridors between these areas:

High – Habitat with confirmed or high probability of high species diversity, species of conservation importance or endemic species and/or areas considered to be of conservation importance.

Medium – Ecosystems with intermediate levels of species diversity without any confirmed or probable species of conservation importance or endemic species.

Low – Areas with little or no conservation potential and usually species poor (mostly alien or exotic species).

Based on the findings of the ecological assessment and the above criteria, ecologically sensitive habitats or areas of conservation importance associated with the study area were identified (Figure 7) and are discussed below. In addition, ecosystem services were identified for each area and are discussed below. Ecosystem services are the benefits that people obtain from ecosystems. As such, ecosystem services include the following services: • Provisioning Services – Includes food, fresh water, fuel wood, fibre, biochemical and genetic resources; • Regulating Services – Includes climate regulation, disease regulation, water regulation, water purification and pollination; • Cultural Services – Spiritual and religious, recreation and ecotourism, aesthetic, inspirational, educational, sense of place and cultural heritage; and • Supporting Services – Soil formation, nutrient cycling and primary production.

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5.1 Areas of Medium-High Sensitivity The Disturbed Natural and Disturbed Moist Grasslands surrounding the study area were considered to be of medium to high conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. Although these areas have been disturbed, at least two floral species of conservation concern, Boophone disticha (currently listed as Declining) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (currently listed as Declining) were confirmed in these areas. In addition, six provincially protected floral species, Aloe greatheadii var. davyana, Boophone disticha, Crinum graminicola, Gladiolus sp., Protea welwitschii and, Hypoxis hemerocallidea were confirmed in the Disturbed Natural Grassland located to the north, west and south of the substation alternatives and associated lines. Although faunal diversity and activity was low at the time of the survey, the Disturbed Natural Grasslands and Disturbed Moist Grasslands were considered to provide suitable habitat for faunal species of conservation concern including Atelerix frontalis (South African Hedgehog; currently listed as Near Threatened), Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog; currently listed as Vulnerable in Mpumalanga and protected at a national level according to NEM:BA) and Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl; currently listed nationally as Vulnerable). The seasonal pan located approximately 800m south of the study area was considered suitable for Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog) and Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl). In addition to this, female P. adspersus (Giant Bullfrog) is likely to use the areas surrounding the seasonal pan (up to 1km away) for aestivation.

Due to the presence of natural vegetation (although disturbed), the areas surrounding the study area provide essential ecosystem services such as regulating (climate control, water provision, pollution and pest control) as well as provisioning services (food and fuel wood).

5.2 Areas of Medium-Low Sensitivity The footprint of the substation alternatives including the associated lines, as well as the surrounding areas which have been historically ploughed were considered to be of medium to low conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. Due to the extensive historical disturbance, limited habitat diversity as well as the close proximity to roads and human settlements, faunal and floral diversity within these areas were very low.

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Figure 7: Ecological sensitivity as determined within the study area

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6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION Any development (current or historic) or other activities in a natural system will impact on the surrounding environment, usually in a negative way. The purpose of this phase of the study was to identify and assess the significance of the current impacts and to provide a description of the mitigation required so as to limit the perceived impacts on the natural environment.

6.1 Assessment Criteria The environmental impacts are assessed with mitigation measures (WMM) and without mitigation measures (WOMM) and the results presented in impact tables which summarise the assessment. Mitigation and management actions are also recommended with the aim of enhancing positive impacts and minimising negative impacts.

The criteria against which these activities were assessed are discussed below.

6.1.1 Nature of the impact The nature of an impact refers to a description of the inherent features, characteristics and/or qualities of the impact. Thus, each impact will be comprehensively detailed and contextualised prior to being assessed.

6.1.2 Scale/extent of the impact Extent refers to the impact footprint. What that means is that if a species were to be lost then the extent would be global because that species would be lost to the world. If human health is threatened then the impact is likely to be no more than local and possibly (in the case of a nuclear power station) regional.

Table 12: Listing of descriptions for the extent of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating Extent Descriptors Definitions Rating Site The impact footprint remains within the 1 cadastral boundary of the site Local The impact footprint extends beyond 2 the cadastral boundary of the site, to include the immediately adjacent and surrounding areas Regional The impact footprint includes the 3 greater surrounding area within which the site is located National The scale/ extent of the impact is 4 applicable to the Republic of South Africa Global The scale / extent of the impact is 5 global (or world-wide)

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6.1.3 Duration of the impact Duration is the period of time for which the impact would be manifest. Importantly the concept of reversibility is reflected in the duration scoring. In other words, the longer the impact endures the less likely is the reversibility of the impact.

Table 13: Listing of descriptions for the duration of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating Duration Descriptors Definitions Rating Construction/ Decommissioning period The impact endures for only as long as 1 only the Construction/ Decommissioning period of the proposed activity. This implies the impact is fully reversible. Short term The impact continues to manifest for a 2 period of between 3 – 10 years. The impact is reversible. Medium term The impa ct continues to manifest for a 3 period of 10-30 years. The impact is reversible with relevant and applicable mitigation and management actions. Long term The impact continues for a period in 4 excess of 30 years. However, the impact is still reversible with relevant and applicable mitigation and management actions. Permanent The impact will continue indefinitely 5 and is irreversible.

6.1.4 Intensity or severity of the impact The concept of intensity potential is an important point of departure. This provides the acknowledgement at the outset of the potential significance of the impact. For example, emissions of SO2 have the potential to result in adverse human health effects, which is obviously a significant potential impact, and that potential must be acknowledged in the significance ratings. The importance of this intensity potential cannot be overemphasised. If the impact is adverse health effects then even a limited extent and duration will still be significant. If the impact is loss of vegetation then the impact will only become significant if the extent is regional and the duration irreversible (for example). Thus, in the latter example the degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of a resource is taken into account.

The second important part of intensity potential is that it provides a measure for comparing significance across different specialist assessments. What this means is that specialists will have to select a potential intensity rating from the tables below that best describes the nature of the impacts identified by the specialist. Note that the EAP has defined the intensity/ severity descriptors together with their appropriate ratings, specialists are required to select the appropriate rating only when ascribing significance to various impacts. This will allow for efficient comparing of significance

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Table 14: Listing of descriptions for the intensity/severity of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating Descriptors: potential consequence (negative) Rating Score Human health – morbidity/mortality. Loss of species. High 16 Reduced faunal populations, loss of livelihoods, Moderate -high 8 individual economic loss, Reduction in environmental quality – air, soil, water. Moderate 4 Loss of habitat, loss of heritage, amenity Nuisance Moderate -low 2 Negative change – with no other con sequences Low 1 Descriptors: potential consequence (positive) Rating Score Net improvement in human welfare Moderate -high 8 Improved environmental quality – air, soil, water. Moderate 4 Improved individual livelihoods Economic development Moderate -low 2 Positive change – with no other consequences Low 1

6.1.5 The probability (or likelihood) of the impact occurring Likelihood is the likelihood of the impact intensity (consequence) manifesting so the 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 serve to illustrate that if an impact is unlikely to manifest then its intensity/consequence score will be reduced and the resultant significance reduced. Although likelihood and probability may be considered interchangeable, the term likelihood is preferred as probability has a very specific mathematical and/ or statistical connotation. As such the expectation created by the term probability is that there will be an accurate empirically or mathematically defined expression of risk, which is not necessarily required.

Table 15: Listing of descriptors for the intensity/severity of an impact together with definitions that serve to assist in selecting the appropriate rating Likelihood/ Probability Definitions Rating Descriptors Improba ble The possibility of the impact occurring is negligible 0.1 and only under exceptional circumstances. Unlikely The possibility of the impact occurring is low with a 0.2 less than 10% chance of occurring. The impact has not occurred before. Probab le The impact has a 10 -40% chance of occurring. Only 0.5 likely to happen once every three or more years. Highly Probable It is most likely that the impact will occur. A 41 – 0.75 75% chance of occurring. Definite More than 75% chance of occurrenc e. The impact 1 occurs regularly.

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6.1.6 Impact significance before mitigation Environmental impacts identified will be evaluated according to the above-mentioned criteria. The significance of impacts will be derived through a synthesis of ratings of all criteria in the following calculation:

(Extent + Duration + Potential Intensity) x Probability/Likelihood = Significance before Mitigation

The significance potential impact on decision-making is indicated through significance points. Significance points indicate the following:

Table 16: Listing of descriptors for the significance score of an impact Descriptions Definitions Rating None The project can be authorised < 3 Low The project can be authorised with a low risk of env ironmental 3 – 4 degradation Moderate The project can be authorised but with conditions and routine 5 – 8 inspections High The project can be authorised but with strict conditions and high levels 9 – 15 of compliance and enforcement in respect of the impact in question Fatally Flawed The project cannot be authorised > 15

6.1.7 Impact significance after mitigation In order to reduce the significant of negative impacts and increase the significance of positive impacts, mitigation measures will be identified and discussed for each impact. The degree to which the impact can be mitigated (if negative) or enhanced (if positive) will be a function of whether the mitigation changes the intensity/ severity and/or the likelihood of the impact. Thus, once the mitigation measure/s have been described, a new significance rating will be determined by following the same steps detailed above, however taking the mitigation and controls into account.

6.1.8 Ascribing significance to cumulative impacts Impacts cannot be assessed in isolation and an integrated approach requires that cumulative impacts will be included in the assessment of individual impacts. The nature of the impact will be described in such a way as to detail the potential cumulative impact of the activity, if there is indeed a cumulative impact. For example, dust and air emissions cannot be assessed in isolation of the potential cumulative impact of increased emissions into the atmosphere. Similarly, if water quality is improved within the immediate surroundings of the proposed activities, this will most certainly have a ripple effect/ cumulative impact on the greater water quality in the area.

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Once all the impacts have been assessed and significance ratings allocated, the EAP will assess the project on a holistic basis to determine the overall project impact on the receiving environment. This will be a function of the individual impacts as well as the cumulative nature of combining all those impacts within a single context/ project.

6.2 Impact Assessment Electrical infrastructure comprises a significant interface between wildlife and man due to the nature and distribution of electrical structures within the landscape. The development of new electrical infrastructure poses three primary threats to avifauna and volant (flying) mammals (bats): (1) electrocution of individuals perching or roosting on or near conductors; (2) collisions with overhead wires; and (3) habitat loss through the destruction or degradation of vegetation during construction. Electrocution and collision associated with electrical infrastructure are common causes of unnatural mortality to many bird and bat species and may significantly impact on population structure (Sergio et al ., 2004; Cryan and Barclay, 2009). Conversely, power supply may be interrupted which has negative economic impacts resulting from damaged equipment, loss of service to the power grid, human safety issues and veld fires.

Possible impacts and their sources associated with the proposed construction of the substation and associated power lines are provided in Table 17.

Table 17: Possible impacts associated with the construction of the substation and associated power lines

Alternatives to be Possible impact Source of impact affected Destructi on of natural vegetation including Ground clearing an d construction of None, only areas the destruction of species of conservation the power pylons and roads surrounding the study concern as well as nationally and area protected species Interference with fauna and faunal Construction workers, construction All 3 alternatives behavioural activities activity and construction vehicles Electrocution of birds and large bat Live conductors Power lines species

6.2.1 Destruction of natural vegetation and faunal habitat Description of Impact The area associated with all three substation alternatives (including the associated lines) were considered to be of medium to low conservation value due to extensive historical disturbance (ploughed fields). However, the areas surrounding the substation alternatives (north, west and south) consisted of Disturbed Natural Grasslands as well as Moist Grasslands. Although the Disturbed Natural Grasslands and Moist Grasslands which were surrounding the substation were not considered to be in a pristine state, they was classified as natural with two floral species of

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Table 18: Destruction of natural vegetation including species of conservation concern, nationally protected plant species Impact source(s) Construction activities including the construction camp, material lay -down yard, cranes, scaffolding and delivery vehicles. Nature of impact Destruction o f natural vegetation surrounding the study area Significance of the Scale / Extent Local - 2 impact without Duration Medium Term - 3 mitigation Intensity Moderate - 4 Probability Probable – 0.5 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (2+3+4) x 0.5 = 4.5 Moderate

Significance of the Scale / Extent Site - 1 impact with Duration Construction - 1 mitigation Intensity Low - 1 Probability Probable – 0.5 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (3+1+1) x 0.5 = 1.5 Low

Mitigation measures • All construction activities should be confined to areas which have been classified to be of medium to low ecological sensitivity in this report. Therefore, no construction vehicles, workers or material should be allowed in any of the areas adjacent to the study area; • An independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) should be appointed to oversee all construction activities; • Access roads should be formalized and should be confined to areas of medium to low sensitivity; and • A rubble clean-up plan must be implemented throughout the duration of the construction phase.

Significance of the impact Without mitigation measures, the impact is considered to be of a moderate significance due to the possibility of destruction of natural vegetation including plant species of conservation concern and/or provincially protected species. However, if construction related impacts are confined to the study area and areas classified as medium to low sensitivity, the significance of this impact is low.

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6.2.2 Interference with faunal species and faunal behaviour activities Description of Impact The presence of the construction site may result in negative faunal interactions that could be associated with construction personnel including poaching, trapping and hunting of faunal species, as well as possible collisions of fauna with construction vehicles. Furthermore, construction will result in high levels of noise, vibrations and the operation of floodlights, should construction continue at night. This will disturb the fauna utilising the surrounding vegetation, especially nocturnal species, and could result in a localised decrease in biodiversity as faunal species move away from the disturbance into the surrounding areas. Food and rubbish left by construction workers can attract wildlife to the area, increasing risk of negative interactions. In addition, the areas associated the substation Alternatives as well as the surrounding areas could provide suitable habitat for three faunal species of conservation concern. One of these, Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog; currently listed as Vulnerable in Mpumalanga and protected at a national level according to NEM:BA) could use the areas within the study area for aestivation. During the erection of the power pylons and/or construction of the substation, aestivating frogs might be dug up or disturbed while drilling activities are likely to impact on aestivating adults. However, since there was limited faunal activity associated with all the alternatives, this impact is not considered to be significant.

Table 19: Interference with faunal species and faunal activities Impact source(s) Construction activities including the erection of power pylons, drilling and other construction activities. Nature of impact Construction activities impacting on fau nal species and faunal activities Significance of the Scale / Extent Site - 1 impact without Duration Construction – 1 mitigation Intensity Low – 1 Probability Unlikely – 0.2 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (3+1+4) x 1 = 7.8 Low

Significance of the Scale / Extent Site - 1 impact with Duration Construction - 1 mitigation Intensity Low - 1 Probability Improbable – 0.2 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (3+1+1) x 0.5 = 0.6 Low

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Mitigation measures (General) • Construction should be conducted during winter months when adult Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrogs) are aestivating since the adults will be more vulnerable to disturbance during the active period (October to February) when they congregate in large numbers in the seasonal pan south of the study area; • As far as possible, construction should be limited to the daylight hours in order to minimise the need for lights; • An education programme should be compiled for all contractors, subcontractors and workers to ensure compliance to all aspects of the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) as well as educating personnel in the safe and proper conduct within areas of natural habitat; and • No wild animal may under any circumstance be handled, removed or be interfered with by construction workers.

Significance of the impact Since low faunal activity was recorded in the study area, the significance of this impact is considered low.

6.2.3 Faunal electrocution Description of Impact Birds are more susceptible to electrocutions than bats generally due to their larger body size and long feathers. The impact of electrocution in bats is poorly documented however it is believed bats are less affected due to their small size and navigational ability through echolocation. Larger bat species such as the fruit bats are however at a higher risk due to their larger body size and lack of echolocation as these species rely on eyesight to locate their fruit diet. Bird species that are prone to electrocution are larger perching species such as birds of prey (including vultures, medium and large bodied raptors, and smaller raptors such as falcons), storks and herons. Although avifaunal activity (especially large bodied species) were moderate to low at the time of the survey, it should be noted that the survey was limited to a three day survey and it is therefore possible that higher avifaunal activity will be recorded over extended periods.

Electrocutions may happen in two ways, (1) phase-to-phase electrocution by bridging the air gap between two live conductors, and (2) phase-to-earth electrocution by contact between a live conductor and earth device (pylon or pole), and occurs especially when the feathers / wings are wet (Bevanger, 1998). A number of factors determine the likelihood of electrocutions including landscape features such vegetation and topography, weather conditions, size of the individual, behaviour of the bird, and structure and dimensions of the pylon (Smallie et al ., 2009). Most bird electrocutions occur on lower voltage electricity pylons, where the gaps between conductors are small, and which are attractive perching and nesting alternatives to

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Table 20: Faunal electrocution Impact source(s) Power lines Nature of impact Collision with power lines resulting in injury and/or mortality Significance of the Scale / Ex tent Site - 1 impact without Duration Permanent – 5 mitigation Intensity Moderate - High – 8 Probability Probable – 0.3 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (3+1+4) x 1 = 4.2 Low

Significance of the Scale / Extent Site - 1 impact with Duration Perma nent - 5 Mitigation Intensity Low - 1 Probability Unlikely – 0.2 (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x Probability (3+1+1) x 0.5 = 1.2 Low

Mitigation measures • If structures such as jumpers at transformers, T-offs and strain structures are to be constructed, these should be insulated; • Only pole structures that are approved as “bird friendly” by Eskom’s ENVIROTECH Forum should be used; and • Power lines should be routed alongside existing infrastructure such as existing power lines, roads and buildings.

Significance of the impact One large-bodied bird species which is vulnerable to collision with power lines, namely Afrotis afraoides (Northern Black Korhaan), was confirmed in the study area and immediate surroundings. However, since there is already numerous power lines present within the study area, this impact as a result of the proposed structures is considered to be low.

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7 CONCLUSION The study area falls within the Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces. Each Province has its own Conservation Plan. According to the Gauteng Conservation Plan, alternative 2 is not located within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) or an Ecological Support Area (ESA), although there is a CBA located approximately 800m south of alternative 2. The Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan, indicates that the preferred alternative as well as alternative 1 are located in “Moderately or Heavily Modified Areas, while areas to the west of the study area were classified as Other Natural Areas.

The three substation alternatives were located in close proximity of each other and confined to an area of approximately 37ha (374,604m²). The area associated with all three substation alternatives were classified as Secondary Grassland (on old ploughed fields), while the areas surrounding the substation alternatives and associated lines, consisted of Disturbed Natural Grassland as well as Disturbed Moist Grasslands.

The area associated with all three substation alternatives including the loop-in / loop- out lines was considered to be of low conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. However, the areas surrounding the substation alternatives (and associated lines), were considered to be of medium to high conservation importance and ecological sensitivity due to the presence of floral species of conservation concern and/or provincially protected species. In addition to this, the areas surrounding the study area could also provide suitable habitat for three faunal species of conservation concern.

Based on the findings of this ecological assessment, none of the substation alternatives (and associated lines) are likely to have a significant impact on the ecology, although mitigation measures are recommended to prevent impacts on the surrounding areas.

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8 REFERENCES Alexander, G. & Marais, J. (2010): A guide to the Reptiles of Southern Africa , Cape Town: Struik Nature. Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) (1994): Mitigating Bird Collisions with Power Lines: The State of the Art in 1994 , Washington DC: Edison Electric Institute. Barnes, K.N. (ed.) (1998): The Important Bird Areas of Southern Africa , Johannesburg: BirdLife South Africa. Barnes, K.N. (2000): The Eskom Red Data Book of birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland , Johannesburg: BirdLife South Africa. Bevanger, K. (1994): Bird interactions with utility structures: collision and electrocution, causes and mitigating measures, Ibis 136: 412 – 425. Bevanger, K. (1998): Biological and conservation aspects of bird mortality caused by electric power lines, Biological Conservation 86: 67 – 76. Carruthers, V. (2013): Amphibian Assessment: BHB Billiton – Middelburg Mines Project. Chittenden, H. (2007): Roberts Bird Guide. A comprehensive field guide to over 950 bird species in southern Africa , Cape Town: John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Cryan, P.M. & Barclay, R.M.R. (2009): Causes of bat fatalities at wind turbines: Hypotheses and predictions, Journal of Mammalogy 90(6): 1330-1340. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (2007): NEM:BA 2004 (Act 10 of 2004): Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable and Protected Species , Regulation No. 151, Government Gazette No. 29657, 23 February 2007, Pretoria: DEAT. Du Preez, L. & Carruthers, V. (2009): A Complete Guide to the Frogs of Southern Africa , Cape Town: Struik Nature. Friedmann, Y. & Daly, B. (eds) (2004): Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A Conservation Assessment , Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) Southern Africa (SSC/IUCN), Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa. Government Gazette No 32689, (2009): Draft National List of Threatened Ecosystems in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) . Department of Environmental Affairs Notice 1477 of 2009 in Government Gazette No. 32689, 6 November 2009. Harrison, J.A., Allan D.G., Underhill, L.G., Herremans, M., Tree, A.J., Parker, V. & Brown, C.J. (1997): The Atlas of Southern African Birds , Johannesburg: BirdLife South Africa. Henderson, L., (2001): Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. A complete guide to declared weeds and invaders in South Africa , Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No. 12, Agricultural Research Council, South Africa.

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Henning, G.A., Terblanche, R.F. & Ball, J.B. (2009): South African Butterfly Conservation Assessment , Sanbi Biodiversity Series 13, Pretoria. Hockey, P.A.R., Dean, W.R.J. & Ryan P.G. (2005): Roberts Birds of Southern Africa , 7th Edition, Cape Town: John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Hunting, K. (2002): A roadmap for PIER research on avian collisions with power lines in California, Sacramento, CA . Prepared for the California Energy Commission, Public Interest Energy Research Programme. Report No. P500- 02-071F. Jenkins, A.R., Smallie, J.J. & Diamond, M. (2010): Avian collisions with power lines: a global review of causes and mitigation with a South African perspective, Bird Conservation International 20: 263 – 278. Manning, J., (2009): Field Guide to Wild Flowers of South Africa , Cape Town: Random House Struik (Pty) Ltd. Monadjem, A., Taylor, P.J., Cotterill, F.P.D., & Schoeman, M.C. (2010): Bats of Southern and Central Africa. A Biogeographic and Taxonomic Synthesis , Johannesburg: Wits University Press. Mucina, L. & Rutherford, M.C. (2006): The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland, Strelitzia 19 , Pretoria: South African National Biodiversity Institute. Pooley, E., (1998): Guide to the Wildflowers of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Region. Durban: Natal Flora Publications. Raimondo, D., von Staden, L., Foden, W., Victor, J.E., Helme, N.A., Turner, R.C., Kamundi, D.A. & Manyama P.A., (eds) (2009): Red List of South African plants 2009, Strelitzia 25 , Nelspruit: South African National Biodiversity Institute. Rutherford, M. C. & Westfall, R. H. (1994): Biomes of Southern Africa: an objective categorisation , Pretoria: National Botanical Institute. Strategic Environmental Focus (SEF): (2013): Mareetsane Batho-Batho Ecological Assessment. SEF Project code: 504744. Sergio, F., Marchesi, L., Pedrini, P., Ferrer, M. & Penteriani, V. (2004): Electrocution alters the distribution and density of a top predator, the eagle owl Bubo bubo , Journal of Applied Ecology 41: 836 – 845. Skinner, J.D. & Chimimba, C.T. (2005): The Mammals of the Southern African Subregion , London: Cambridge. Smallie, J., Diamond, M. & Jenkins, A. (2009): Lighting up the African continent – what does it mean for our birds? Proceedings of the 12 th Pan-African Ornithological Congress 2008 , Cape Town: Animal Demography Unit. Stuart, C. & Stuart, T. (2000): A Field Guide to the Tracks & Signs of Southern and East African Wildlife , Cape Town: Struik. Stuart, C. & Stuart, T. (2007): Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa , Cape Town: Struik Nature.

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Tainton, N. (1999): Veld management in South Africa , Pietermaritzburg: University of Natal Press. Van Oudtshoorn, F. (2004): A Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa , Pretoria: Briza Publications. Van Rooyen, C.S. (2004): The management of wildlife interactions with overhead lines. In: The Fundamentals of Practice of Overhead Line Maintenance (132kV and above) , pp 217-245, Johannesburg: Eskom Technology, Services International. Van Wyk, B. & Malan, S. (1997): Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld , Cape Town: Struik Publishers. Van Wyk, B. & Smith, G. (2005): Guide to the Aloes of South Africa , Pretoria: Briza Publications. Van Wyk, B. & Van Wyk, P. (1997): Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa , Cape Town: Struik. Woodhall, S. (2005): Field Guide to Butterflies of South Africa, Cape Town: Struik. Yetman, C.A. & Ferguson, J.W.H. (2011): Conservation implications of spatial habitat use by adult Giant Bullfrogs ( Pyxicephalus adspersus). Journal of Herpetology 45(1): 56-62.

DIGITAL REFERENCES Animal Demography Unit: FrogMAP – South African Frog Atlas Project (SAFAP) (2015): http://vmus.adu.org.za Animal Demography Unit: ReptileMAP – South African Reptile Conservation Assessment (SARCA) (2015): http://sarca.adu.org.za Biodiversity GIS (2015): Critical Biodiversity Areas Map (CBA’s): http://bgis.sanbi.org CITES (2015): CITES Appendices I, II & III valid 25 September 2012: http://www.cites.org/eng/app/appendices.php IUCN (2015): IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Version 2013.3: www.iucnredlist.org Plants of Southern Africa (POSA) (2015): http://posa.sanbi.org/searchspp.php South African National Red List (2015): http://redlist.sanbi.org Southern African Birding cc. (2011): Roberts VII Multimedia, Birds of Southern Africa, Computer Software. Southern African Butterfly Conservation Assessment (SABCA) (2015): http://sabca.adu.org.za

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GLOSSARY

Alien species Plant taxa in a given area, whose presence there, is due to the intentional or accidental introduction as a result of human activity.

Biodiversity Biodiversity is the variability among livi ng organisms from all sources including inter alia terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and ecological complexes of which they are part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems.

Biome A major biotic unit cons isting of plant and animal communities having similarities in form and environmental conditions, but not including the abiotic portion of the environment.

Buffer zone A collar of land that filters edge effects.

Climax The presumed en d point of successional sequence; a community that has reached a steady community state, the most mature and fully developed vegetation that an ecosystem can achieve under the prevailing conditions. It is reached after a sequence of changes in the ecosystem, known as succession. Once climax vegetation develops, the changes are at a minimum and the vegetation is in dynamic equilibrium with its environment. Very few places show a true climax because physical environments are constantly changing so that ecosystems are always seeking to adjust to the new conditions through the process of succession.

Conservation The management of the biosphere so that it may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to present generation while maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations. The wise use of natural resources to prevent loss of ecosystems function and integrity.

Conservation Plants of conservation concern are those plants that are important for South Africa’s concern conservation decision making processes and include all plants that are Threatened (see Threatened ), Extinct in the wild, Data deficient, Near threatened , Critically rare, Rare and Declining . These plants are nationally protected by the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. Within the context of these reports, plants that are Declining are also discussed under this heading.

Conservation An indicator of the likelihood of that species remaining extant either in the present day or the status near future. Many factors are taken into account when assessing the conservation status of a species: not simply the number remaining, but the overall increase or decrease in the population over time, breeding success rates, known threats, and so on.

Community Assemblage of populations living in a prescribed area or physical habitat, inhabiting some common environment.

Correspondence Correspondence Analysis simultaneously ordinates species and s amples . Analysis

Critically A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the Endangered wild in the immediate future.

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Data Deficient There is inadequate information to make a direct, or indirect, assessment of it s risk of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. However, “data deficient” is therefore not a category of threat. Listing of taxa in this category indicates that more information is required and acknowledges the possibility that future research will show that threatened classification is appropriate.

Declining A taxon is declining when it does not meet any of the five IUCN criteria and does not qualify for the categories Threatened or Near Threatened, but there are threatening processes causing a continuous decline in the population (Raimondo et al., 2009).

Ecological Corridors are roadways of natural habitat providing connectivity of various patches of native Corridors habitats along or through which faunal species may travel without any obstructions where other solutions are not feasible.

Edge effect Inappropriate influences from surrounding activities, which physically degrade habitat, endanger resident biota and reduce the functional size of remnant fragments including, for example, the effects of invasive plant and animal species, physical damage and soil compaction caused through trampling and harvesting, abiotic habitat alterations and pollution.

Endangered A taxon is Endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.

Fauna The animal life of a region.

Flora The plant life of a region.

Forb A herbaceous plant other than grasses.

Habitat Type of environment i n which plants and animals live.

Indigenous Any species of plant, shrub or tree that occurs naturally in South Africa .

Invasive species Naturalised alien plants that have the ability to reproduce, often in large numbers. Aggressive invaders can spread and invade large areas.

Least C oncern A taxon is Least Concern when it has been evaluated against five IUCN criteria and does not qualify for the Threatened or Near threatened Categories (Raimondo et al., 2009).

Mitigation The implementation of practical measures to reduce adverse imp acts .

Near Threatened A Taxon is Near Threatened when available evidence indicates that that it nearly meets any of the five IUCN criteria for Vulnerable, and is therefore likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future (Raimondo et al., 2009).

Plant A collection of plant species within a designated geographical unit, which forms a relatively community uniform patch, distinguishable from neighbouring patches of different vegetation types. The components of each plant community are influenced by soil type, topography, climate and human disturbance.

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Protected Plant According to Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinances, no one is allowed to sell, buy, transport, or remove this plant without a permit from the responsible authority. These plants are protected by provincial legislation.

Threatened Species that h ave naturally small populations and species which have been reduced to small (often unsustainable) population by man’s activities.

Red Data A list of species, fauna and flora t hat require environmental protection - based on the IUCN definitions. Now termed Plants of Conservation Concern.

Species A measure of the number and relative abundance of species . diversity

Species The number of species in an area or habitat . richness

Succession Progressive change in the composition of a community of plants, e.g. from the initial colonisation of a bare area, or of an already established community towards a largely stable climax. The complete process of succession may take hundreds or thousands of years and entails a number of intermediate communities - each called a seral community. The replacement of one seral community by another in most cases leads to the eventual formation of a climax community, a relatively stable community of plants and animals .

Vegetation Unit A complex of plant communities ecologically and historically (both in spatial and temporal terms) occupying habitat complexes at the landscape scale. Mucina & Rutherford (2006) state: “Our vegetation units are the obvious vegetation complexes that share some general ecological properties such as position on major ecological gradients and nutrient levels, and appear similar in vegetation structure and especially floristic composition”.

Threatened Threatened Species are t hose that are facing a high risk of extinction, indicated by placing in the categories Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (E) and Vulnerable (VU) (Raimondo et al., 2009).

Vulnerable A taxon is Vulnerable when it is not Critically Endangered or Endan gered but meets any of the five IUCN criteria for Vulnerable and is therefore facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the future (Raimondo et al., 2009).

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX A Plant species identified on the study site

APPENDIX B Bird species observed in the study area as well as their provincial, national and global conservation status APPENDIX C Bird species of conservation concern occurring within QDGC 2528DA as well as their national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference APPENDIX D Mammal species occurring within QDGC 2528DA, provincial, national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference

APPENDIX E Bat species occurring within QDGC 2528DA, prov incial, national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference

APPENDIX F Amphibian species occurring within QDGC 2528DA, national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference

APPENDIX G Reptile species occurring within QDGC 2528DA, national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference

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APPENDIX A: PLANT SPECIES IDENTIFIED ON THE SITE (P-M) Provincially protected species in Mpumalanga; (P-G) Provincially protected species in Gauteng; (Dec) Declining; (M) Used medicinally Scientific Name Common Name Locality in the study area Secondary grasslands (on Disturbed Natural Grassland Disturbed Moist old ploughed fields) Grassland Herbaceous species Aloe greatheadii var. davyana X (P-M) Asparagus laricinus Wild Asparagus X X Becium sp. X Boophone disticha (P -M & G; Poison Bulb X Dec) Commelina sp . X Crinum graminicola (P -M) X Elephantorrhiza elephantina X Felicia muricata X Gladiolus sp. (P -M) X Hypoxis acuminata X Hypoxis hemerocallidea (P -M X & G; Dec) Hypoxis iridifolia X Ledebouria sp. X X Pygamaethamnus X chamaedendrum Senecio sp. X X Seriphium plumosum Bankrupt Bush X X Solanum panduriforme Poison Apple X X

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Scientific Name Common Name Locality in the study area Secondary grasslands (on Disturbed Natural Grassland Disturbed Moist old ploughed fields) Grassland Solanum retroflexum X Trees and Shrubs Acacia karroo X Protea welwitschii (P -M) White Sugarbush X Grass Cynodon dactylon X Imperata cylindrica X Eragrostis sp. X Melinis repens subsp. repens X Panicum sp. X Hyparrhenia sp. X Alien species Acacia mearnsii X X Bidens pilosa X Campuloclinium macrocephalum Pom Pom Weed X Populus x canescens X Salix babylonica X Verbena aristigera Fine -leaved X X Verbena Verb ena bonariensis Wild Verbena X X

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Scientific English Name Conservation Status Acridotheres tristis Common Myna Least Concern Afrotis afraoides Northern Black Korhaan Leas t Concern Bostrychia hagedash Hadeda Ibis Least Concern Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret Least Concern Chrysococcyx caprius Diderick Cuckoo Least Concern Cisticola textrix Cloud Cisticola Least Concern Falco rupicoloides Greater Kestrel Least Concern Hiru ndo rustica Barn Swallow Least Concern Mirafra africana Rufous -naped Lark Least Concern Myrmecocichla formicivora Ant -eating Chat Least Concern Passer domesticus House Sparrow Least Concern Saxicola torquatus African Stonechat Least Concern Vanellus c oronatus Crowned Lapwing Least Concern

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APPENDIX C: Bird species of conservation concern occurring within 2528DA, national and global conservation status (EN = Endangered; VU = Vulnerable; NT = Near Threatened; LC = Least Concern), habitat requirements, likelihood of occurring in the study area and immediate surroundings. The rationale for likelihood of the species occurring in the study area and/or immediate surroundings are included.

Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Glareola nordmanni Black -winged Pratincole NT, NT Open grassland, edges of pans and Medium The seasonal pan 800m south of the cultivated fields, but most common in study area could provide suitable habitat seasonally wet grasslands and pan systems during higher rainfall periods

Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark LC, NT Grassland dominated by Themeda triandra; Medium The Disturbed Natural Grassland could avoids wet lowlands, favouring fairly short be suitable. Accurate assessment of grassland (< 0.5 m), with open spaces habitat suitability was not possible due to between tussocks, at 550-1 750 m altitude, dormant vegetation layer with annual rainfall 400-800 mm

Rostrat ula Greater Painted -Snipe VU, LC Waterside habitats with substantial cover Medium Species is highly adaptable and will benghalensis make use of any seasonal surface water. The pan located 800m south of the study area could be suitable during higher rainfall periods

Sagittarius serpentarius Secretarybird VU, VU Open grassland (< 0.5 m) with scattered Medium The Disturbed Natural G rassland could trees, shrubland, open Acacia and provide suitable foraging habitat bushwillow ( Combretum spp.) savanna; absent from dense woodland and rocky hills

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Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Anthropoides Blue Crane NT, VU Open grassland and grassland/Karoo Low Close proximity of human settlements paradiseus ecotone; wetlands, cultivated pastures and crop lands; tolerant of intensively grazed and burnt grassland Ciconia abdimii Abdim's Stork NT, LC Grassland, savanna woodland, pan edges, Low Lack of suitable habitat pastures, cultivated land and suburban areas. On migration and after good rains, in semi-desert habitats, incl. Kalahari. Generally absent from wetlands Ciconia nigra Black Stork VU, LC Dams, pans, floodplains, flooded grassland, Low Lack of suitable habitat associated with mountainous areas

Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier NT, NT Grasslands associated with pans or Low Lack of suitable habitat floodplains; also croplands

Circus maurus Black Harrier EN, VU Dry grassland, Karoo scrub, agricultural Low Lack of suitable habitat fields and high-altitude grasslands; intolerant of burnt areas Circus ranivorus African Marsh -Harrier EN, LC Almost exclusively inland and coastal Low Lack of suitable habitat wetlands Coracias garrulus European Roller NT, NT Open, broadleaved and Acacia woodlands Low Lack of suitable habitat with grassy clearings

Eupodotis Bl ue Korhaan LC, NT Flat and undulating terrain in grassland and Low Lack of suitable habitat caerulescens Nama Karoo, where rainfall 300-1 000 mm; often on damp ground; sometimes attracted to burnt areas; favours short vegetation

Eupodotis senegalensis White -bellied Korhaan VU , LC Fairly tall, dense grassland, especially sour Low Lack of suitable habitat and mixed grassland, in open or lightly wooded, undulating to hilly country; in winter, occasionally on modified pastures and burnt ground

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Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon VU, LC Most frequent in open grassland, open or Low Lack of suitable habitat cleared woodland, and agricultural areas. Breeding pairs favour habitats where cliffs available as nest and roost sites, but will use alternative sites (e.g. trees, electricity pylons, buildings) if cliffs absent Falco vespertinus Red -footed Falcon NT, NT Breeds in open habitats with some trees, Low Lack of suitable habitat incl. semi-forested areas, forest fringes, croplands and wetlands. In s Africa, most common in open, grassy, arid woodland (e.g. Kalahari)9. Roosts in small stands of trees, often in alien Eucalyptus spp., in suburbs of small towns1. Gyps africanus White -backed Vulture EN, EN Lightly wooded arid savanna, including Low Lack of suitab le habitat Mopane Colophospermum mopane woodland Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture EN, VU Wide habitat range; cliffs Low Lack of suitable habitat Hieraaetus ayresii Ayres's Hawk -Eagle #N/A Dense woodland and fore st edge, often in Low Lack of suitable habitat hilly country. In Zimbabwe, frequently in treed suburbia outside breeding season. Often roosts in Eucalyptus stands10

Leptoptilos Marabou Stork NT, LC Both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, Low Lack of suitable habitat crumeniferus favouring open and semi-arid areas; largely absent from forest areas and true desert; common at wetlands, incl. dams, pans and rivers, and in wildlife reserves and ranching areas

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Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Limosa limosa Black -tailed Godwit NA, NT A wide variety of habi tats, even small Low Lack of suitable habitat highveld pans. Primarily inland, favouring lake margins, marshes, swamps and irrigated lands where substratum soft enough to allow probing. Also at coastal wetlands, incl. estuaries, sheltered embayments and saltpans. Mycteria ibis Yellow -billed Stork EN, LC Wetland s, incl . alkaline and freshwater lakes, Low Lack of suitable habitat rivers, dams, pans, flood plains, marshes, flooded grassland and small pools or streams Neotis denhami Denham's Bustard VU, NT High -lying, open, sour grassland, often in Low Lack of suitable habitat rocky areas and on plateau grassland; occasionally uses cultivated fields, especially in winter and during droughts; attracted to burnt ground, especially in winter; avoids heavily grazed grassland Nettapus auritus African Pygmy -Goose VU, LC Prefers inland wetlands, mainly in savanna, Low Lack of suitable habitat with clear water and floating and emergent vegetation, especially water lilies ( Nymphaea spp.) Oxyura maccoa Maccoa Duck NT, NT Prefers permanent wetlands in open Low Lack of suitable habitat grassland and semi-arid country (incl. fynbos, succulent Karoo, Nama Karoo) that support rich concentrations of benthic invertebrates. Breeding habitat usually contains stands of young, emergent vegetation, mainly rushes and sedges48. In KwaZulu-Natal, breeding recorded only at farm dams. Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle EN, VU Open woodland, arid and mesic savanna, Low Lack of suitable habitat forest edges

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Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Torgos tracheliotos Lappet -faced Vulture EN, VU Open woodland in arid - and semi -arid Low Lack of suitable habitat regions, incl. Acacia spp., Shepherds-tree Boscia albitrunca , Purple-pod Cluster-leaf Terminalia prunioides and Mopane Colophospermum mopane Tyto capensis African Grass -Owl VU, LC Treeless areas associated with damp Low The seasonal pan 800m south of the substrata, mainly marshes and vleis. study area could provide suitable habitat Favours patches of tall, rank grass, sedges during higher rainfall periods or weeds. Also areas with dense ground cover in scattered thorn scrub, low fynbos and renosterveld, usually close to water and among thick stands of grass ( Stenotaphrum sp.) and sedge ( Juncus sp.) Alcedo semitorquata Half -collared Kingfisher NT, LC Clear, fast -flowing perennial streams, rivers Zero Lack of suitable habitat and estuaries, usually narrow and secluded, with dense marginal vegetation; often near rapids Aquila verreauxii Verreauxs' Eagle VU, LC Mountains and rocky areas with cliffs Zero Lack of suitable habitat Sterna caspia Caspian Tern VU, LC Along coast, mostly in shelte red bays and Zero Lack of suitable habitat estuaries; inland, at large water bodies, both natural and man-made, with preference for saline pans and large impoundments Pelecanus rufescens Pink -backed Pelican VU, LC Wide range of wetlands, incl . lakes, dams Zero Lack of suitable habitat and slow-flowing rivers, saline pools, lagoons, estuaries and sheltered bays Phoeniconaias minor Lesser Flamingo NT, NT Primarily open, eutrophic, shallow wetlands; Zero Lack of suitable ha bitat breeds on saline lakes and saltpans

Phoenicopterus roseus Greater Flamingo NT, LC Large, shallow, eutrophic wetlands, slat Zero Lack of suitable habitat pans, saline lakes, coastal mudflats

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Scientific English Family Regional, Global Habit at Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation occurring in study Status area and immediate surroundings

Podica senegalensis African Finfoot VU, LC Mostly quiet, wooded streams and rivers Zero Lack of suitable habitat flanked by thick riparian vegetation and overhanging trees. Also dam verges, especially with sufficient overhanging vegetation and reed cover

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APPENDIX D: Mammal species occurring within QDGC 2528DA as well as their provincial, national and global conservation status ( CR = Critically Endangered ; EN = Endangered ; VU = Vulnerable ; NT = Near Threatened ; LC = Least Concern; DD = Data Deficient; Pr = Protected ; En = Endemic ; Intro = Introduced ), habitat requirements, likelihood of occurring in the study area and immediate surroundings. The rationale for rating of likelihood of occurring in study area is also included.

Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Cryptomys hottentotus African Mole Rat/Common mole -rat LC LC Subterranean, widespread Confirmed Soil heaps on surface indicate species Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert, Confirmed Visual insectivorous Atelerix frontalis Southern African Hedgehog LC NT Dry habitats with groundcover for nesting, High Species occur in nocturnal grassland. Nocturnal and often overlooked Canis mesomelas Black -backed Jackal LC LC Savanna, shrublan d, grassland, drier High Cosmopolitan areas, omnivore, extreme generalist species which readily adapts to human disturbances Crocidura silacea Lesser Gray -brown Musk Shrew LC DD This species occurs in montane forest, High Cosmopolitan savanna, bush, grassland and coastal species which forest. It appears to tolerate a wide range readily adapts to of habitats. human disturbances Herpestes sanguineus Slender Mongoose LC LC Savanna, desert, urban areas, High Cosmopolitan invertebrates and small vertebrates species which readily adapts to human disturbances Ictonyx striatus Zorilla, Striped Pole Cat LC LC Savanna, grasslands, desert, forest, High Cosmopolitan insects and mince, reptiles species which readily adapts to human disturbances Lemniscomys rosalia Si ngle -striped Grass Rat LC DD Savanna, grassland, good cover, fallow High Cosmopolitan fields species which readily adapts to human disturbances

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Lepus microtis African Savanna Hare LC LC Grazer, savanna, arable land, desert High Cosmopolitan species which readily adapts to human disturbances. However species would be hunted Mastomys coucha Southern African Mastomys LC LC Widespread, nocturnal High Suitable habitat and species readily adapts to human disturbances Mastomys natalensis Natal Mastomys LC LC Cosmopolitan, nocturnal High Suitable habitat and species readily adapts to human disturbances Mus indutus Desert Pygmy Mouse LC LC Arid scrub savanna and woodland, wide High Suitable habitat and tolerance species readily adapts to human disturbances Mus musculus House Mouse LC LC Widespread High Suitable habitat and species readily adapts to human disturbances Rattus rattus Black Rat, House Rat LC LC Widespread High Cosmopolitan species often associated with human settlements Rhabdomys pumilio Four -striped Grass Mouse LC LC Temperate, grassland with good cover, High Cosmopolitan diurnal species Saccostomus campestris Pouched Mouse LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, temperate, High Cosmopolitan nocturnal seed eater species

Steatomys krebsii Kreb's Fat Mouse LC LC Temperate, sandy substrates, wide High Cosmopolitan tolerance species

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Thallomys paedulcus Acacia Rat LC LC Widespread High Suitable habitat and species readily adapts to human disturbances Elephantulus myurus Eastern Rock Elephant Shrew LC LC Shrubland, grassland, crevices and Medium Habitat not crannies considered highly suitable Felis silvestris Wild Cat, Wildcat LC LC Savanna, shrubland, desert, broad habitat, Medium Species not likely t o small mammals, reptiles, birds and tolerate high level invertebrates human disturbance Gerbilliscus brantsii Highveld Gerbil LC LC This species is found in the subtropical and Medium Habitat considered wooded grasslands of most South Africa marginal (excluding some of the south), western Zimbabwe, Botswana, central and eastern Namibia, southeastern Angola and southwestern Zambia. There is a record from northern Mozambique.

Gerbilliscus leucogaster Bushveld Gerbil LC DD Sandy soils Medium Habitat considered marginal Otomys angoniensis Angoni Vlei Rat LC LC Woody savanna, tall grasses and shrubs, Medium Area considered shrub dominated wetlands, bogs, marshes marginal swamps, fens, peatlands with good grass cover Poecilogale albinucha African Striped Weasel LC DD Grassland, savanna, shrubland, birds and Medium Cosmopolitan eggs species which readily adapts to human disturbance. Steatomys pratensis Fat Mouse LC LC Fringes of rivers and swamps with sparse Medium Habitat considered to tall and dense grass cover. Common on marginal cultivated land suggesting they prefer loose, sandy substrates.

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Crocidura maquassiensis Makwassie Musk Shrew LC VU Montane grassland, rocky areas, coastal Low Cosmopolitan forest, garden, terrestrial species which readily adapts to human disturbances Aethomys ineptus Tete Veld Aethomys LC LC Rocky crevices and piles of boulders Low Lack of suitable habitat Aethomys namaquensis Namaqua Rock Rat LC LC Rocky outcrops and koppies Low Lack of suitable habitat Atilax paludinosus Marsh Mongoose, Water Mongoose LC LC Coastline, rocky shores, intertidal, Low Lack of suitable estuarine, brackish, bogs, marshes, habitat swamps, freshwater and saltwater, eats invertebrates and small vertebrates Caracal caracal Caracal, African Caracal LC LC Savanna, shrubland, eats small mammals Low Lack of suitable and birds habitat Chlorocebus pygerythrus Vervet LC LC Savanna, forest, riparian vegetation, forest Low Lack of suitable edge, omnivore habitat

Crocidura cyanea Reddish -gray Musk Shrew LC DD This species occurs in a wide variety of Low Lack of suitable montane grasslands and temperate and habitat subtropical forests. In Namibia, a population has been found inhabiting a cave, where they feed on cave invertebrates and possibly dead bats (Marais and Irish 1990). Crocidura hirta Lesser Red Musk S hrew LC DD This species is found in grassland, Low Lack of suitable savanna and bush savanna. The Nambian habitat subspecies Crocidura hirta deserti occurs in arid areas Crocidura mariquensis Swamp Musk Shrew LC DD Bogs, marshes, swamps, peatleands, Low Lack of suitable marshy areas in savannas, terrestrial, habitat nocturnal Dasymys incomtus African Marsh Rat /Water Rat LC NT Bogs, marshes, swamps, fens, peatlands, Low Lack of suitable nocturnal, semi-aquatic habitat

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Dendromus mystacalis Chestnut Climbi ng Mouse LC LC Grassland with rank vegetation with high Low Lack of suitable coarse grasses habitat

Elephantulus Short -snouted Elephant Shrew LC DD Heavy cover in grass and scrubs Low Lack of suitable brachyrhynchus habitat Felis nigripes Black -footed Ca t VU LC Savanna, shrubland, desert, short -grass Low Lack of suitable specialist feeding on small mammals, habitat and species reptiles, birds and invertebrates not tolerant to human disturbances Genetta genetta Common Genet LC LC Forest, savanna, omnivoro us Low Lack of suitable habitat Graphiurus microtis Small -eared Dormouse LC 0 Savanna and woodland habitats Low Lack of suitable habitat Graphiurus platyops Rock Dormouse LC DD Temperate, rocky areas Low Lack of suitable habitat Hyaena brunnea Brown Hya ena NT NT Savanna, grasslands, urban areas, Low Although the scavenger species can tolerate human disturbance, it requires larger open areas Hystrix africaeaustralis Cape Porcupine LC LC Arable land, savanna, grassland, Low Although the habitat temperate, desert, throughout southern is considered Africa suitable, the close proximity of humans as well as hunting with dogs would have eliminated the species from the study area and surroundings Ichneumia albicauda White -tailed Mongoose LC LC Savanna, urban ar eas, grasslands, Low Species sensitive to invertebrates an small vertebrates human disturbances

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Leptailurus serval Serval LC NT Wide distribution range but restricted by Low Lack of suitalbe habitat requirements. Proximity to water habitat and close essential as well as availability of adequate proximity of human cover settlements Lutra maculicollis Spotted -necked Otter LC NT Aquatic areas, natural and man -made, fish, Low Lack of suitalbe crab, frogs, in low densities habitat and close proximity of human settlements Mungos mungo Banded Mongoose LC LC Savanna, social, termites and bee tle Low Habitat not larvae, other invertebrates considered highly suitable Mystromys albicaudatus White -tailed Mouse EN EN Temperate, sandy soils with good cover Low Lack o f suitable habitat Neamblysomus julianae Juliana's Golden Mole (Pretoria) CR CR Subteranean, Rocky Highveld Grassland, Low Lack of suitable gardens habitat Orycteropus afer Aardvark, Antbear LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, vital Low Although habitat is association between ants and termites suitable, the close proximity of human settlements as well as hunters within the area would have eliminated the species. Otomys irroratus Southern African Vlei Rat LC LC Grassland species occurring in Low Lack of suitable submontane as well as coastal areas. habitat

Panthera pardus Leopard NT LC Forest, savanna, desert, predates small to Low Close proximity of medium mammals human settlements

Papio ursinus Grey -footed Chacma Baboon LC LC Savanna and grassland, fo rest edges, Low Lack of suitable omnivore habitat Pedetes capensis Springhaas, Springhare LC LC Sandy, hard soils, cultivated areas or open Low Lack of suitable shrublands, deserts habitat, species requires sandy soils for burrows

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Scientific Name Common Name Global Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Rationale Conservation Conservation occurring in study Status Status area

Raphicerus campestris Steenbok LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, drier areas Low Although the habitat is considered suitable, the close proximity of humans as well as hunting with dogs would have eliminated the species from the study area and surroundings Suncus lixus Greate r Dwarf Shrew LC DD Occurs in damp situations in riverine forest. Low Lack of suitable habitat Suncus varilla Lesser Dwarf Shrew LC DD Particularly associated with mounds of Low Lack of suitable snouted harvester termites but have also habitat been recorded in areas without termite mounds Suricata suricatta Meerkat, Slender -tail LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert, Low Lack of suitable invertebrates, small vertebrates habitat

Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker, Grey Duiker LC LC Widespread, thicket s, savanna, Low Although the habitat widespread, karroid, forest and savanna is considered suitable, the close proximity of humans as well as hunting with dogs would have eliminated the species from the study area and surroundings Thryonomys swinderianus Greater Cane Rat LC LC Savanna, Grassland, Seasonally wet or Low Lack of suitable flooded wetlands, usually near water habitat

Vulpes chama Cape Fox, Silver Fox LC LC Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert, Low Lack of suitable omnivorous, small vertebrates and habitat invertebrates

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APPENDIX E: Bat (Chiroptera) species occurring within the geographical area associated with QDGC 2528DA as well as their provincial, regional (South Africa) and global conservation status ( CR = Critically Endangered ; EN = Endangered ; VU = Vulnerable ; NT = Near Threatened ; LC = Least Concern; DD = Data Deficient; Pr = Protected ; En = Endemic ; Intro = Introduced ) as well as habitat requirements, roosting requirements, foraging behaviour and likelihood of occurring in the study area and immediate surroundings.

Scientific Name Common Name Regional Global Habitat Requirements Roosting Requirements Foraging behaviour Likelihood of Conservation Conservation occurring in Status Status study area Neoromicia capensis Cape Serotine Bat LC LC Appears to tolerate a wide Roosts singly or in small groups Clutter -edge forager. High range of environmental under the bark of trees, at the Various prey species conditions from arid semi-desert base of aloe leaves and under to montane grasslands. Less roofs of houses abundant in low-lying, hot savannas in the far east region Tadarida aegyptiaca Egyptian Free - LC LC Vegetation appears not to affect Roosts communally in small to Forages over a wide High tailed Bat this species since it forages medium sized groups in caves, range of habitats usually above the canopy. Has been rock crevices, under exfoliating flying well above the recorded in desert, semi-arid rocks in hollow trees and behind canopy of vegetation. scrub, savanna, grassland and bark of dead trees. Also agricultural land. Avoids forests recorded from buildings Taphozous mauritianus Mauritian Tomb LC LC Widespread in the eastern and Variety of locations including rock Open air forager High Bat northern parts. Occur in a faces, tree trunks, and walls variety of savanna woodlands, preferring open habitats and avoiding closed forest interior. Appears to be dependent on surface water Rhinolophus darlingi Darling's NT LC Wide distribution in SA Roosts in caves and mine adits Clutter feeder, Medium Horseshoe Bat associated with arid savanna or in cavities in piles of boulders Lepidoptera and and woodland requires specific temperature Coleoptera dominant in range of 24 degrees C diet Sauromys petrophilus Roberts's Flat - LC LC Wides pread and abundant in Roosts communally in groups of Open air forager Medium headed Bat arid western parts of Namibia up to ten individuals. Roost sites and South Africa with a are in narrow cracks and under separate population in northern slabs of exfoliating rock. Species South Africa is closely associated with rocky habitats, usually in dry woodland, mountain fynbos and arid scrub

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Scientific Name Common Name Regional Global Habitat Requirements Roosting Requirements Foraging behaviour Likelihood of Conservation Conservation occurring in Status Status study area Eidolon helvum Straw -coloured NE LC Wooded areas providing Not well documented Travels u p to 60km per Low Fruit Bat suitable wild and cultivated fruit night from roost Epomophorus wahlbergi Wahlberg's LC LC Eastern parts of the region. In dense fo liage of large, leafy May travel severa l km per Low Epauletted Fruit Associated with forest and trees night to find suitable fruit Bat forest-edge habitat including trees riparian forests Eptesicus hottentotus Long -tailed House LC LC Occurs in miombo woodland in Caves and rocky outcrops. Clutter -edge forager, diet Low Bat gorges and granitic hills in SA Seems to be an essential consists of Coleoptera usually captured near rocky requirement outcrops Hipposideros caffer Sundevall's DD LC Closely associated with Wide range of roosting sites It appears to forage in and Low Roundleaf Bat woodland savanna and riparian including caves, sinkholes, around thickets and well- vegetation within woodlands cavities and anthropogenic sites developed undergrowth such as mines and culverts vegetation, avoiding open areas. Cluttered environments Kerivoula lanosa Lesser Woolly Bat NT LC Habitat is not well k nown, one Number of specimens have been Clutter forager but no Low specimen has been caught in taken while roosting in weaver other info is available riparian woodland and sunbird nests Miniopterus natalensis Natal Long - NT NT Temperate region s including Cave dependant and distribution Clutter -edge feeder and Low fingered Bat higher laying grassland and determined by availability of feeds on a variety of prey savanna sites. Congregates in huge species numbers of up to 260 000 at De Hoop in the Western Cape Myotis tricolor Cape Hairy Bat NT LC Mountainous areas, absent from Highly dependent on caves for Clutter -edge forager, Low flat and featureless habitat suitable roosting sites. Alternate feeding a a variety of prey between maternity and winter species hibernacula sites Myotis welwitschii Welwitch's Bat NT LC Appears to be tied to mountains Roosting habitats are poorly Clutter -edge fo rager Low in areas covered by woodland known; it has been collected from or woodland-forest mosaic furled banana leaves vegetation Neoromicia nana Banana Bat LC LC Associated with well wooded Typically roosts in furled banana Clutter -edge for ager, diet Low habitats such as riparian leaves. Males roost singly. May consists mostly of vegetation and forest patches also roost in leaves of other Coleoptera and

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Scientific Name Common Name Regional Global Habitat Requirements Roosting Requirements Foraging behaviour Likelihood of Conservation Conservation occurring in Status Status study area plants, roofs Lepidoptera Neoromicia zuluensis Aloe Bat / Zulu LC LC Associated with woodland, Roosting sites are not well Clutter -edge forager Low Serotine closely tied to riparian known. Previously wrongly vegetation identified as N.capensis (Aloe bat) hence the common name. Doesn't appear to roost in aloe leaves Nycteris thebaica Egyptian Slit - LC LC Appears to occur throughout the Variety of shelters in cluding Forages by flying low Low faced Bat savanna and karoo biomes but caves, aardvark burrows, culverts above the ground, avoids open grasslands. and trunks of large trees. Day listening for prey scurrying roosts are often not completely on the surface dark and caves do not need to be extensive or deep Pipistrell us rusticus Rusty Pipistrelle NT LC This species has been recorded Has been c ollected from crevices Clutter -edge forager Low from savanna woodland, and in trees and hollow trees both dry and moist savanna habitats. Animals have been reported roosting in tree crevices, under bark and in old buildings (Skinner and Chimimba 2005). Rhinolophus blasii Blasius's NT NT Known from savanna woodland Roosts in caves and mine adits in Clutter forager Low Horseshoe Bat small groups of up to 4 individuals Rhinolophus c livosus Geoffroy's NT LC Associated with a wide variety Caves and mine adits. May form Clutter forager, diet Low Horseshoe Bat of habitats including arid large colonies of up to several comprises of Lepidoptera savanna, woodland and riparian thousand and Coleoptera forests. Primarily a temperate species, absent from hot, low- lying areas Rhinolophus simulator Bushveld LC LC Associated with savanna Caves and mine adits where it Clutter forager Low Horseshoe Bat woodland, mostly netted in forms colonies of up to 300. Also riparian forest and along roost singly or in small groups in wooded drainage lines caverns in rocky outcrops and culverts under the road

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Scientific Name Common Name Regional Global Habitat Requirements Roosting Requirements Foraging behaviour Likelihood of Conservation Conservation occurring in Status Status study area Scotophilus dinganii African Yellow Bat LC LC Occur throughout the savanna Variety of shelters but including Clutter -edge forager Low biome but avoid open habitats holes in tees, roofs of houses Cloeotis percivali Percival's Trident CR VU Not well know n but associated May roost in narrow crevices Clutter forager. Feed Low Bat with woodland exclusively on Leptidoptera

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APPENDIX F: Amphibian species occurring within QDGC 2528DA as well as their national and global conservation status, probability of occurring on site and habitat preference. Species are listed in order of probability of occurring on site

Scientific Name Common name Regional Conservation Habitat Requirements Likelihood of occurring in study area Status and immediate surroundings Amietophrynus Guttural Toad Least Concern Around open pools, dams, vleis and other semi - High gutturalis permanent bodies of water in grassland, thicket and savanna; suburban gardens and farmland

Schismaderma carens Red Toad Least Concern Widespread in savanna and woodland, readily High adapts to human habitation Phrynobatrachus Snoring Puddle Least Concern Margins of permanent and temporary water bodies High natalensis Frog including shallow marshes, lakes, rivers, streams and pools; also semi-desert scrub, arid and humid savanna, agricultural land and forest clearings

Cacosternum boettgeri Common Caco Least Concer n Variety of habitats in Nama Karoo, succulent Karoo, High grassland and thicket favouring open areas and especially abundant in grassland areas; occasionally forest clearings

Pyxicephalus Giant Bull Frog Globally: Least Concern Fossorial, breeding in seasonal, shallow, grassy High adspersus Vulnerable in Mpumalanga pans, vleis and other rain-filled depressions in open, Provincially Protected: flat areas of grassland or savanna; Nama Karoo and Mpumalanga thicket at the limits of its range Nationally Protected: NEM:BA

Poyntonophrynus Northern Pygmy Least Concern Variety of bushveld vegetation in the savanna biome Medium fenoulheti Toad and occasionally adjacent grassland

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Scientific Name Common name Regional Conservation Habitat Requirements Likelihood of occurring in study area Status and immediate surroundings Kassina senegalensis Bubbling Kassina Least Concern Grassland around vleis and pans; bre eds in Medium temporary and permanent water bodies including vleis, marshes, pans, ponds and dams

Xenopus laevis Common Platanna Least Concern Restricted to aquatic habitats but opportunistic and Medium can be found in any form of wetland

Ptychadena Striped Grass Frog Least Concern Variety of vegetation types from sea level to 2300m Medium porosissima including subtropical coastal areas, temperate and wooded grassland along escarpment and highveld

Amietia quecketti Queckett's River Least Concern Var iety of habitats in grassland and vleis Medium Frog Phrynomantis Banded Rubber Least Concern Hot, semi -arid to subtropical environments; savanna Low bifasciatus Frog woodland, grassland and wide variety of bushveld vegetation types; also agriculturally developed areas

Tomopterna cryptotis Tremelo Sand Frog Least Concern Variety of habitats in savanna and grassland Low

Tomopterna natalensis Natal Sand Frog Least Concern Variety of habitats in savanna and grassland; breeds Low in shallow permanent furrows, canals or streams in grassland and agricultural land

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APPENDIX G: Reptile species occurring within QDGC 2528DA as well as their regional conservation status, habitat requirements and probability of occurring on site. Species are listed by probability of occurring on site.

Scientific Name Common name Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of occurring in the Conservation Status study area and immediate surroundings Nucras holubi Holub's Sandveld Lizard Least Concern Broken rocky ground in mesic savanna Confirmed Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals Least Concern Grassland High Atractaspis bibronii Bibron's Stiletto Snake Least Concern Varied, highveld grassland and semi - desert to coastal bush High

Boaedon capensis Brown House Snake Least Concern Wide range of habitats and tolerant to human activities High Lamprophis aurora Aurora House Snake Least Concern Restricted to the southern and eastern parts of South Africa High

Lycophidion capense Cape Wolf Snake Least Concern Variety of hab itats including lowland forest, fynbos, moist High capense savanna, grassland and karoo scrub Psammophis brevirostris Short -snouted Grass Snake Least Concern Habitat generalist, widespread and common throughout SA High

Psammophylax tritaeniatus Striped Grass Snake Least Concern Open grassland and savanna High Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink Least Concern Habitat generalist High Trachylepis varia Variable Skink Least Concern Varied, grassland to arid and mesic savanna High Bitis arietans arietans Pu ff Adder Least Concern Absent only from desert, dense forest and mountain tops High

Dasypeltis scabra Rhombic Egg -eater Least Concern Absent only from closed canopy and desert areas Medium Philothamnus Spotted Bush Snake Least Concer n Open forest or savanna, arid regions Medium semivariegatus Thelotornis capensis Southern Twig Snake Least Concern Savanna, coastal thicket and forest fringe Medium capensis Aparallactus capensis Black -headed Centipede - Least Concern Varied, highveld, mont ane grassland, savanna and coastal Medium eater bush Causus rhombeatus Rhombic Night Adder Least Concern Mesic savanna Medium Acanthocercus atricollis Southern Tree Agama Least Concern Open savanna Low

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Scientific Name Common name Regional Habitat Requirements Likelihood of occurring in the Conservation Status study area and immediate surroundings atricollis Dispholidus typus typus Boomslang Least C oncern Widely distributed throughout much of southern Africa Low excluding the central Highveld and drier western half of South Africa

Cordylus vittifer Common Girdled Lizard Least Concern Lives in cracks on small rocky outcrops Low Naja annulifera Snouted Cobra Least Concern Very common in bushveld and Lowveld areas Low Naja mossambica Mozambique Spitting Cobra Least Concern Savanna, cleared areas in former forest Low Mochlus sundevallii Sundevall's Writhing Skink Least Concern Arid sandy areas Low sundevallii Trachylepis punctatissima Speckled Rock Skink Least Concern Prefers rocky areas Low Kinixys lobatsiana Lobatse Hinged Tortoise Least Concern Prefers Burkea savanna Low Varanus albigularis Rock Monitor Least Concer n Common throughout savanna areas Low albigularis

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PROPOSED RETHABISENG NORTH SUBSTATION PRELIMINARY GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION

APRIL 2016 Report No. 4070

Prepared for:

Prepared by: JEFFARES & GREEN (PTY) LTD

Jeffares and Green House, 37 Sunninghill Office Park, Peltier Drive, Sunninghill Johannesburg 2191 Telephone: +27 11 231 2200 Email: [email protected] Project director: Cecilia Canahai

PROPOSED RETHABISENG NORTH SUBSTATION PRELIMINARY GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 5 2 APPOINTMENT ...... 5 2.1 Information available ...... 6 3 SITE LOCATION ...... 6 4 SITE CONDITIONS ...... 7 4.1 Site Description ...... 7 4.2 Geology ...... 7 4.3 Topography, Drainage and Rock Outcrop ...... 8 4.4 Climate ...... 9 4.5 Groundwater ...... 9 5 FIELDWORK ...... 9 5.1 Test Pits ...... 9 6 GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT...... 10 6.1 Ground Conditions ...... 10 6.1.1 Site Alternative 1 ...... 10 6.1.2 Site Alternative 2 ...... 10 6.1.3 Site Alternative 3 ...... 11 7 LABORATORY TESTING ...... 11 8 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 13 8.1 Foundations ...... 13 8.1.1 Site Alternative 1 ...... 13 8.1.2 Site Alternative 2 ...... 14 8.1.3 Site Alternative 3 ...... 14 8.2 Drainage ...... 14 8.3 Ease of Excavation ...... 14 8.3.1 Site Alternative 1 ...... 14 8.3.2 Site Alternative 2 ...... 14 8.3.3 Site Alternative 3 ...... 15 8.4 Earthworks and Materials Utilisation ...... 15 8.5 Trench Stability ...... 15 9 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 15

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9.1 Impact of the Geotechnical Site Conditions ...... 15 9.2 THE IMPACT THAT THE DEVELOPMENT WILL HAVE ON THE GEOLOGICAL AND GEOTECHNICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 19 10 CONCLUSIONS ...... 19 11 REFERENCES ...... 21

ANNEXURES Annexure A: TEST PIT LOGS AND PHOTOGRAPHS Annexure B: LABORATORY TEST RESULTS

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1 INTRODUCTION This report presents the results of a preliminary geotechnical investigation undertaken for Eskom’s proposed new Rethabiseng North Substation. The investigation was undertaken as a Specialist Study, commissioned as part of a Basic Assessment process being undertaken by Jeffares & Greens’ environmental division. The new proposed substation will be built on one of the three site alternatives. The main objective of the study was to provide a comparative assessment of the ground conditions at the alternative sites, in order to provide geotechnical information for the substation site selection. The objectives of the geotechnical investigation may be divided into two broad categories.  Objective 1: Assess the impact that the geotechnical site conditions will have on the proposed development This involves the identification of problematic ground conditions (geotechnical constraints) and assessing the impact that these constraints will have on the proposed development. Geotechnical constraints may, in extreme cases, render a site unsuitable for a particular development. However, the majority of geotechnical constraints may be overcome by implementing conventional engineering solutions. These solutions will, however, affect the cost of construction.  Objective 2: Assess the impact that the development will have on the geological and geotechnical environment This involves the identification of sites of particular geological interest or scientific importance (which could comprise a rock outcrop, a landform, a fossil bed, caves, meteorite impact crater, etc.) and the identification of geotechnical sensitive areas (e.g. prone to erosion or instability that could be triggered by development activities). The presence of a shallow or perched groundwater table increases the risk of groundwater contamination. The field investigation was carried out on the 2nd of March 2015 and entailed the following:  The excavation of nine test pits  The retrieval of four disturbed samples for laboratory testing. This report is based on point information obtained at the test pit positions. The ground conditions between the test pit positions have been inferred, using professional judgement. The investigation was undertaken to provide a preliminary assessment of the geotechnical conditions at each site. Further, detailed investigations will be required at the selected site for engineering design purposes.

2 APPOINTMENT This geotechnical investigation was undertaken as a Specialist Study that formed part of a Basic Assessment process being undertaken by Jeffares & Green. Jeffares & Green was appointed by Eskom to undertake the Basic Assessment by Eskom Distribution (Gauteng Operating Unit) on the 17th of July 2014 under Contract Number 4600037146.

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2.1 Information available The following information relevant to the project was provided by Jeffares & Green Environmental Division through electronic correspondence during the month of November 2014: • TEF_Rethabiseng Substation

The following sources of information were utilised during the study: • 1:250 000 scale Geological Map 2628 Pretoria published by the Council for Geoscience • Engineering Geology of South Africa Volume 3 (Brink, 1983) • Aerial photography (Google Earth imagery).

3 SITE LOCATION The three alternative sites for the proposed Rethabiseng North Substation are located near Ekangala, on the border between the Gauteng Province and the Mpumalanga Province. Ekangala is located north of Bronkhorstspruit, as indicated in Figure 1 and 2. Site Alternative 1 is highlighted in orange, Site Alternative 2 in yellow and Site Alternative 3 in red in Figure 2.

Figure 1 Locality Plan – Small Scale

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Site Alternative 3

Site Alternative 1

Site Alternative 2

Figure 2 Locality Plan – Large Scale

4 SITE CONDITIONS

4.1 Site Description All three site alternatives are currently used for agricultural purposes, with no significant development having been undertaken at the sites. Large electrical pylons are located east of the site alternatives and run parallel to the Provincial Road R573. The vegetation identified at the site alternatives comprised of natural grassland. Access to the site alternatives is gained via a gravel road off the Provincial Road R573, towards Kwamhlanga. Visual inspection of the terrain indicates that a LDV should be used to access the site alternatives.

4.2 Geology In terms of geological setting, the area under investigation is underlain by sedimentary rocks of the Dwyka Group, of the Karoo Supergroup. The investigation area is also in close proximity to areas underlain by sedimentary rocks of the Waterberg Group. According to the 1:250 000 scale Geological Map 2528 Pretoria, tillite and shale underlie the study area, with sandstones in close proximity, as can be seen in Figure 3, and set out in Table 1.

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Figure 3 Geological Map

Extracted from 1:250 000 scale Geological Map 2528 Pretoria, Council for Geoscience

Table 1 Stratigraphy and Rock Types MAP SYMBOL STRATIGRAPHY LITHOLOGY

Dwyka Group, Karoo Supergroup Tillite, shale

Waterberg Group Sandstone, quartzite, conglomerate

4.3 Topography, Drainage and Rock Outcrop The topography over the investigation areas at Site Alternative 1 and Site Alternative 2 slopes towards the south west. It is estimated that an 8.00 m drop in elevation will be expected across the footprint of the substation at Site Alternative 1 and a 7.00 m drop in elevation will be expected across the footprint of the substation at Site Alternative 2. The topography over the investigation area at Site Alternative 3 slopes towards the north east and an estimated 4.00 m drop may be expected across the substation footprint in this direction. No rock outcrop was noted to occur at any of the site alternatives during the geotechnical investigation. A drainage feature was identified, from aerial photography, approximately 700 m south west of Site Alternative 1. A depression was noted to occur north east of Site Alternative 3 and standing water is anticipated to occur after intense or prolonged periods of rainfall.

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4.4 Climate The climatic regime plays a fundamental role in the development of a soil profile. Weinert (1964) demonstrated that mechanical disintegration is the predominant mode of rock weathering in areas where his climatic “N-value” is greater than 5, while chemical decomposition predominates where the N-value is less than 5. Weinert’s climatic N-value for the Ekangala area is approximately 2.5. This implies that chemical decomposition is the dominant mode of weathering.

4.5 Groundwater Groundwater was not encountered at any of the test pit positions. The soils recovered at the test pit positions were described as generally “slightly moist” and ground water seepage is not expected to be problematic at these positions.

5 FIELDWORK The fieldwork was undertaken in March 2016, during the wetter summer season. It must be noted, however, that the investigation was undertaken during a drought period, and the soil moisture conditions may be drier than average for the time of investigation. The location of the test pits is illustrated in Figure 4.

Figure 4 Site Plan

5.1 Test Pits The soil and rock profiles were assessed by the excavation and profiling of test pits, excavated using a Tractor Loaded Backhoe (TLB). The test pits were excavated to a depth of approximately 3 m, or to practical refusal of the equipment.

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Three test pits were excavated at each of the Site Alternatives. TP1 to TP3 were excavated at Site Alternative 3. TP4 to TP6 were excavated within the study area at Site Alternative 1 and TP7 to TP9 were excavated within the study area at Site Alternative 2. The test pits were profiled immediately, after excavation, by our Engineering Geologist and were photographed. The test pit logs and photographs are attached in Annexure A.

6 GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT From a geotechnical perspective the three alternative sites are suitable for the construction of the substation, provided that the recommendations given in this report are implemented, in order to mitigate potential geotechnical constraints.

6.1 Ground Conditions The ground conditions at the sites are described from the observations in the test pits and the results of the laboratory tests.

6.1.1 Site Alternative 1 6.1.1.1 Hillwash Hillwash was encountered in all three test pits (TP4 to TP6) at Site Alternative 1. The hillwash was encountered from surface and persisted to depths in excess of 3.00 m at the test pit positions TP4 and TP5. The hillwash was encountered to maximum depth of 1.50 m at test pit position TP6. The hillwash soils encountered were described as slightly moist, dark brown to light orange brown in colour, loose, intact but voided in places and comprised of silty fine sand. 6.1.1.2 Residual Sandstone Residual sandstone was only encountered at test pit position TP6. The residual sandstone was encountered from a depth of 1.60 m and terminated at a depth of 1.70 m below natural ground level (ngl). The residual sandstone was described as slightly moist, light orange brown, mottled light beige, loose, voided and comprised of silty fine sand. 6.1.1.3 Sandstone Bedrock Sandstone bedrock was only encountered at test pit position TP6. The sandstone bedrock was encountered from 1.70 m and persisted to depths beyond 2.70 m below ngl. The sandstone bedrock was described as light beige pink, mottled orange and stained black on joints, highly weathered, widely jointed and thinly bedded, medium grained and comprised of soft rock becoming medium hard rock with depth.

6.1.2 Site Alternative 2 6.1.2.1 Hillwash Hillwash was encountered in all three test pits (TP7 to TP9) at Site Alternative 2. The hillwash was encountered from surface and persisted to depths of between 0.50 to 0.60 m at the test pit positions TP7, TP8 and TP9. A second deeper horizon of hillwash was identified at the test pit position TP7 from a depth 0.50 m and terminated at a depth of 2.00 m below ngl. The shallow hillwash encountered at all three test pit positions was described as slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact and comprised of silty fine sand. The deeper hillwash encountered

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at TP7 was described as moist, bright red brown, loose, voided and comprised of clayey sandy silt. 6.1.2.2 Residual Tillite Residual tillite was encountered at test pit positions TP7, TP8 and TP9. The residual tillite was encountered from depths of between 0.50 and 2.00 m below ngl and persisted to depths beyond 3.40 m below ngl. The residual tillite soils encountered at TP7 and TP8 were described as moist, bright red brown mottled orange, blotched grey and black, medium dense, intact and comprised of gravelly silty sand with abundant cobbles. The gravels and cobbles encountered within this horizon were described as rounded to sub-rounded in shape. The residual tillite encountered at TP9 was described as moist, orange brown speckled white, medium dense, intact and comprised of silty sandy gravel.

6.1.3 Site Alternative 3 6.1.3.1 Hillwash Hillwash was encountered in all three test pits (TP1 to TP3) at Site Alternative 3. Two distinct horizons of hillwash were encountered at Site Alternative 3 The upper sandy hillwash was encountered from surface and persisted to depths of between 0.30 to 0.50 m at the test pit positions. The deeper gravelly hillwash soils were encountered from depths between 0.30 and 0.50 m below ngl and persisted to depths of between 1.00 and 2.10 m below ngl. The upper hillwash was described as slightly moist, dark brown to light red orange brown in colour, loose, intact and comprised of silty fine sand. The deeper hillwash soils were described as slightly moist, light orange brown, loose, intact and comprised of silty sandy gravel with scattered to abundant cobbles and small boulders. The gravels, cobbles and boulders within the alluvial soils were noted to be rounded to sub- rounded in shape. 6.1.3.2 Residual Tillite Residual tillite was encountered at all the test pit positions at Site Alternative 3. The residual tillite was encountered from depths of between 1.00 to 2.10 m below ngl and persisted to depths beyond 3.50 m below ngl. The residual tillite was described as slightly moist, light grey, mottled beige and brown speckled orange to dark red brown speckled white blotched black, loose to medium dense, intact, weakly ferruginised in places and comprised of clayey sandy silt to clayey silty gravel.

7 LABORATORY TESTING Five disturbed samples were recovered from the test pits. The test results are summarized in Table 2 and the full results are included in Annexure B:

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Table 2 Laboratory Test Results Summary

CALIFORNIA BEARING

RATIO AT

)

3 TP HEAVE DESCRIPTION NO. (m) (%) (%) POTENTIAL*

(kg/m

DEPTH

SILT (%)

CLAY (%)

SAND (%)SAND

CONTENT

GRAVEL (%)GRAVEL 97% 95% 93% 90%

LIQUID LIMIT (%)

LINEAR LINEAR SHRINKAGE

GRADING MODULUS

OPTIMUM MOISTURE

PLASTICITY INDEX (%)

MAXIUM DRY DENSITY 1.60 – TP1 Gravelly sandy SILT 20 39 40 1 0.96 24 5 2.5 Low 3.10 0.50 – TP2 Gravelly silty SAND 18 48 32 2 1.11 24 7 3.1 Low 2.10 0.40 – TP4 Clayey silty SAND 0 58 39 3 0.67 28 8 4.1 Low 3.10 2.00 – TP7 Gravelly silty SAND 25 43 31 1 1.23 29 10 4.7 Low 3.30 0.50 - TP9 Silty sandy GRAVEL 46 34 19 1 1.78 30 9 1.7 1973 10.6 9 8 5 3 Low 3.30 * Van der Merwe method of predicting potential heave

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The results of the soil grading tests indicate that the soils consist predominately of sand and silt sized particles, with the exception of those encountered at TP9 from 0.50 m depth. It is therefore recommended that all the soils be classified as non-cohesive for engineering evaluation purposes. The potential for heave related movement of the soil samples was assessed according to the Van der Merwe method of predicting potential heave (Williams and Donaldson 1980). This estimates the expansiveness from the equivalent Plasticity Index of the whole sample and the clay content of the whole sample. The laboratory test results indicate that all the soils have a “low” potential for expansiveness. Moisture induced heave or shrinkage is not expected to be problematic at any of the Site Alternatives.

8 RECOMMENDATIONS It is understood that Eskom wishes to construct the new Rethabiseng North Substation on one of the three alternative sites. It is anticipated that the new substation infrastructure will require a founding medium with a bearing capacity of at least 150 kPa. Substations require level platforms on which the substation infrastructure is constructed. On sloping, ground earthworks will be require to construct cut-to-fill platforms.

8.1 Foundations Substation infrastructure is preferably founded on pad or strip footings placed at relatively shallow depth (in the order of 1 m) below platform level. The foundations are typically designed to limit foundation pressures to less than 150 kPa.

8.1.1 Site Alternative 1 Site Alternative 1 slopes towards the south west and there is an elevation difference of approximately 8 m across the footprint, as provided. The construction of the proposed substation will require a cut-to-fill methodology on this site. The site is underlain by hillwash and sandstone bedrock at the anticipated founding depth of the substation infrastructure. Sandstone bedrock will provide an adequate founding medium for the substation infrastructure, as described above. However, sandstone bedrock was only encountered at one test pit position, thus, it is considered highly likely that hillwash will also be encountered at the founding depth of the substation infrastructure. The test pit logs indicate that the hillwash soils are loose and voided, which is indicative of soils susceptible to collapse settlement. Therefore the hillwash materials are not considered an adequate founding medium for the substation infrastructure. It is recommended that the poor quality hillwash soils are removed, across the platform footprint, to a minimum depth of 1.50 m below the base of the deepest proposed foundations (or untill sandstone bedrock in encountered). It is recommended that the base of the excavation is then wetted and heavily compacted. The spoiled material must then be replaced with G6 or better quality material, compacted in layers, to a minimum of 93% of Mod. AASHTO maximum dry density.

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8.1.2 Site Alternative 2 Site Alternative 2 slopes towards the south west and there is an elevation difference of approximately 7 m across the footprint, as provided. The construction of the proposed substation will require a cut-to-fill methodology on this site. The site is underlain by hillwash and residual tillite at the anticipated founding depth of the substation infrastructure. These materials will not provide an adequate founding medium for the substation infrastructure, as described above. It is recommended that the poor quality hillwash soils and residual tillite are removed, across the platform footprint, to a minimum depth of 1.50 m below the base of the deepest proposed foundations. It is recommended that the base of the excavation is then wetted and heavily compacted. The spoiled material must then be replaced with G6 or better quality material, compacted in 150 mm layers, to a minimum of 93% of Mod. AASHTO maximum dry density.

8.1.3 Site Alternative 3 Site Alternative 3 slopes towards the north east and there is an elevation difference of approximately 4 m across the footprint, as provided. The construction of the proposed substation will require a cut-to-fill methodology on this site. The site is underlain by hillwash soils and residual tillite at the anticipated founding depth of the substation infrastructure. These materials will not provide an adequate founding medium for the substation infrastructure, as described above. It is recommended that the poor quality hillwash soils and residual tillite is removed, across the platform footprint, to a minimum depth of 1.50 m below the base of the deepest proposed foundations. It is recommended that the base of the excavation is then wetted and heavily compacted. The spoiled material must then be replaced with G6 or better quality material, compacted in 150 mm layers, to a minimum of 93% of Mod. AASHTO maximum dry density.

8.2 Drainage Groundwater seepage was not encountered at any of the Site Alternatives and the instalment of sub-surface drainage measures are not anticipated to be required. It is recommended that surface drainage measures be implemented at all the Site Alternatives due to their sloping nature to ensure that soil erosion around the substation infrastructure does not occur.

8.3 Ease of Excavation

8.3.1 Site Alternative 1 According to the criteria published in SANS 1200D Earthworks, as specified for restricted excavation (shown in Table 3), soft to intermediate excavations conditions are expected within the hillwash to depths in excess of 3.00 m. Intermediate to hard excavation conditions are expected to occur should weathered sandstone be encountered.

8.3.2 Site Alternative 2 Soft to intermediate excavations conditions are expected within the hillwash, alluvial soils and residual tillite to depths in excess of 3.00 m.

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8.3.3 Site Alternative 3 Soft to intermediate excavations conditions are expected within the hillwash, alluvial soils and residual tillite to depths in excess of 3.00 m. Table 3: Excavation Class Descriptions (SANS 1200 D)

EXCAVATION CLASS DESCRIPTION Excavation in material that can be efficiently removed by a back-acting excavator of flywheel power approximately 0.10 kW Soft per millimetre of tined-bucket width, without the use of pneumatic tools such as paving breakers. Excavation in material that requires a back-acting excavator of flywheel power exceeding 0.10 kW per millimetre of tined- Intermediate bucket width or the use of pneumatic tools before removal by equipment equivalent to that specified for soft excavation. Hard rock excavation shall be excavation in material (excluding Hard boulder excavation) that cannot be efficiently removed without blasting or wedging and splitting. Excavation in material containing more than 40% by volume of Boulder (excavation boulders of size in the range of 0.03 - 20m3, in a matrix of soft class A) or smaller boulders.

8.4 Earthworks and Materials Utilisation The construction of the substation will be undertaken on a levelled platform. Due to the sloping topography and poor founding conditions, large scale earthworks are expected to be required at all three Site Alternatives. Ground improvement should be implemented as described in Section 8.1.3. The gravelly hillwash material encountered during the field investigation is anticipated to be suitable for use in the lower layers of a deep fill platform. The material is not expected to meet the requirements for G6 quality. Further assessment of the in-situ material for use during constriction should be undertaken, as part of the detailed geotechnical investigation at the selected site.

8.5 Trench Stability It is recommended that the contractor appoints a competent excavation supervisor in terms of Section 13 of the Construction Regulations 2014, due to the large earthworks and excavations which may be required for this project.

9 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

9.1 Impact of the Geotechnical Site Conditions From a geotechnical perspective, no fatal flaws have been identified on any of the site alternatives that would prevent the development of the sites.

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The investigations indicate that adequate founding conditions were not identified at shallow depth for the proposed infrastructure and suitable imported material will be required at all the site alternatives. The soil profile encountered at Site Alternative 1 is variable, competent sandstone was identified on the eastern section of the site and loose voided hillwash soils were identified to the south of the site. The collapsible nature of voided loose hillwash soils will require ground improvement measures to be mitigated and the large change in elevation across the proposed substation footprint (approximately 8 m) will require extensive earthworks to be undertaken. Site Alternative 2 is underlain by hillwash soils and residual tillite. The soft nature of the residual tillite and large change in elevation across the proposed substation footprint at this site (approximately 7 m) will require extensive earthworks to be undertaken to create a level platform for the construction of the substation. Site Alternative 3 is underlain by hillwash soils and residual tillite. The removal and replacement of the hillwash soils and residual tillite will require earthworks to be undertaken to create a level platform for the construction of the substation. However, given the more gentle topography (approximately 4 m variation across the site) the extent of the earthworks will be significantly less than for the other two sites. While these constraints, identified at Site Alternative 1, Site Alternative 2 and Site Alternative 3 can be overcome with standard design and construction procedures, Site Alternative 3 is considered the preferred option from a geotechnical constraints perspective.

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Table 4 Potential Geotechnical Constraints for Site Alternative 1

Possible Geotechnical Constraints - Site Alternative 1 Possible Engineering Solutions Description Extent Probability Magnitude Collapsible soils Identified to occur High Medium Ground improvement in the form or a beneath the majority of comprehensive compaction programme. Large settlement the site Removal of loose hillwash and replacement with imported fill. Sloping topography Identified to occur High High Cut to fill methodology and the sourcing of suitable Large scale earthworks beneath the entire site fill material

Table 5 Potential Geotechnical Constraints for Site Alternative 2

Possible Geotechnical Constraints – Site Alternative 2 Possible Engineering Solutions Description Extent Probability Magnitude Soft soils Identified to occur Medium Medium Ground improvement in the form or a beneath the majority comprehensive compaction programme. Low bearing capacity of the site Removal of residual tillite and alluvial soil and replacement with imported fill. Sloping topography Identified to occur High High Cut to fill methodology and the sourcing of suitable Large scale earthworks beneath the entire site fill material

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Table 6 Potential Geotechnical Constraints for Site Alternative 3

Possible Geotechnical Constraints - Site Alternative 3 Possible Engineering Solutions Description Extent Probability Magnitude Loose silty soils Identified to occur Medium Medium Ground improvement in the form or a Low bearing capacity beneath the entire site comprehensive compaction programme. Removal of loose silty residual tillite and replacement with imported fill. Sloping topography Identified to occur High Low Cut to fill methodology and the sourcing of suitable Large scale earthworks beneath the entire site fill material

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9.2 THE IMPACT THAT THE DEVELOPMENT WILL HAVE ON THE GEOLOGICAL AND GEOTECHNICAL ENVIRONMENT A comparative assessment of the Site Alternatives has been undertaken based on the impact that the development will have on the geological and geotechnical environment (Objective 2, as described in Section 1). Sites of particular geological interest or scientific importance were not identified within any of the alternative sites boundaries. Site Alternative 1, Site Alternative 2 and Site Alternative 3 will have a low impact on the geology and soils. However, Site Alternative 3 is considered to have a marginally lower impact, due to the reduced amount of earthworks required at this site. A comparative assessment of the impacts that the proposed Rethabiseng North Substation will have on the geology and soils is provided in Table 7. Table 7: Geotechnical Comparative Assessment of Alternatives Key PREFERRED The alternative will result in a low impact / reduce the impact FAVOURABLE The impact will be relatively insignificant NOT PREFERRED The alternative will result in a high impact / increase the impact NO PREFERENCE The alternative will result in equal impacts

Alternative Preference Reasons SUBSTATION AND ASSOCIATED BUILDINGS Substation Site Alternative 1 FAVOURABLE Low impact on the geology and soils Substation Site Alternative 2 FAVOURABLE Low impact on the geology and soils Substation Site Alternative 3 PREFERRED Lowest impact on the geology and soils

10 CONCLUSIONS The geotechnical investigation undertaken indicates that the alternative sites are suitable for the construction of the proposed new Rethabiseng North Substation, from a geotechnical perspective, provided that the recommendations given in this report are implemented in order to overcome geotechnical constraints identified.  The bedrock geology comprises tillite rock of the Dwyka Group of the Karoo Supergroup. Sedimentary rock of the Waterberg Group occurs in close proximity to the site.  The soil profile observed at Site Alternative 1 comprises sandy, voided hillwash soils, underlain by weathered sandstone bedrock on the eastern section of the site.  The soil profile observed at Site Alternative 2 comprises of sandy and silty hillwash soils, underlain by residual tillite, with abundant rounded to sub-rounded gravels, cobbles and small boulders.

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 The soil profile observed at Site Alternative 3 comprises of sandy and gravelly hillwash soils, underlain by residual tillite, with abundant rounded to sub-rounded gravels, cobbles and small boulders.  Substation infrastructure typically exerts a maximum foundation pressure of 150 kPa and strip or pad footing foundation design is generally used.  The sloping nature of all the site alternatives will require that large scale earthworks are undertaken and ground improvement methods used as described in Section 8.1.  Soft to intermediate excavation conditions are expected to occur at all the site alternatives to depths greater than 3.00 m.  It is recommended that the contractor appoints a competent excavation supervisor in terms of Section 13 of the Construction Regulations 2014.  Groundwater seepage was not encountered at any of the test pit positions at the time of the geotechnical investigation. Groundwater seepage is not expected to be problematic at the site alternatives.  Site Alternative 1, Site Alternative 2 and Site Alternative 3 are expected to have similar geotechnical constraints due to the similar geology and topography encountered at the sites.  Site Alternative 3 has been assessed to have the lowest potential impact on the soils and geology.  Site Alternative 1 and Site Alternative 2 are expected to have a low potential impact on the soils and geology.  From a purely geotechnical perspective, Site Alternative 3 is identified to be the preferred site for the new proposed Rethabiseng North Substation. --oOo--

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11 REFERENCES 1) Brink, A.B.A. (1979). Engineering Geology of South Africa Volume 1. Building Publications Pretoria. 2) Brink, A.B.A. (1985). Engineering Geology of South Africa Volume 4. Building Publications Pretoria. 3) Johnson, M.R., Anhausser, C.R., Thomas, R.J. (1996). The Geology of South Africa. The Geological Society of South Africa and the Council for Geoscience. 4) Weinert, H.H. (1980). The Natural Road Construction Materials of Southern Africa. H & R Academica. 5) Eskom Specification 34-1657 (2011) Procedure for conventional stay planting and compaction, pole planting and compaction and rock anchor installation and testing.

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Annexure A: TEST PIT LOGS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

W:\Earth Sciences\4070 - Eskom Rethabiseng Substation EA\02 Documents and Reports\J&G Documents\Specialist Studies\Geotech\4070 Eskom Rethabiseng Geotechnical Report Final.docx ESKOM HOLE No: TP1 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, light red orangey brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash

0.50 Slightly moist, light orangey brown, loose, intact, silty fine sandy GRAVEL with abundant rounded to sub-rounded gravels, cobbles and boulders: Hillwash.

1.60 Slightly moist, light grey mottled orange beige and brown speckled light orange, loose, intact, clayey sandy SILT with scattered gravels: Residual tillite.

CBR

3.10 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) CBR sample taken 1.60--3.10m. CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’03.94"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’11.97"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP1 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP2 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:20 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash

0.50 Slightly moist, light orangey brown, loose, intact, weakly ferrugenised, silty fine sandy GRAVEL with abundant rounded to sub-rounded gravels, cobbles and boulders: Hillwash.

IND

2.10 Slightly moist, light grey mottled beige and brown speckled light orange, loose, intact, clayey sandy SILT with scattered gravels: Residual tillite.

3.50 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) IND sample taken 0.50--2.10m.

CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’07.16"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’13.13"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP2 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP3 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine sand with scattered cobbles: hillwash.

0.30 Slightly moist, light orange brown, loose, intact, silty sandy GRAVEL with rounded to sub-rounded gravels and cobbles: Hillwash.

1.00 Moist, dark red brown speckled white blotched black becoming mottled white and orange with depth, medium dense, intact, weakly ferrugenised, clayey silty GRAVEL to sandy gravel with rounded to sub-rounded gravels and cobbles: Residual tillite/Alluvium.

3.10 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) No sample taken. CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’10.58"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’13.73"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP3 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP4 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

0.40 Moist, red brown, loose, voided, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

IND

3.10 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) IND sample taken 0.40--3.10m. CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2842’58.94"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’25.08"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP4 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP5 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

0.50 Moist, red brown, loose, voided, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

3.20 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) No sample taken. CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’02.19"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’26.05"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP5 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP6 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, light beige brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

0.30 Slightly moist, light orangey brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

1.50 Slightly moist, light orangey brown, medium dense, intact, large rounded sandstone cobbles in a silty fine SAND matrix: Pebble marker. 1.60 Slightly moist, light orangey brown mottled light beige, loose, voided, silty fine SAND: Residual sandstone. 1.70 Light beige pink mottled orange and stained black on joints, highly weathered, widely jointed and thinly bedded, medium grained, soft rock becoming medium hard rock with depth: SANDSTONE.

2.70 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) Refusal at 2.70m.

4) No sample taken.

CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’09.89"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’27.81"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP6 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP7 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:20 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

0.50 Moist, bright red brown, loose, voided, clayey sandy SILT: Hillwash.

2.00 Moist, bright red brown mottled orange blotched grey and black, medium dense, gravelly silty SAND with rounded to sub-rounded gravels and scattered cobbles: Residual tillite.

IND

3.30 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) IND sample taken 2.00--3.30m.

CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’07.89"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’33.10"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP7 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP8 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:20 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty fine SAND: Hillwash.

0.60 Moist, bright red brown mottled orange blotched grey and black, medium dense, gravelly silty SAND with rounded to sub-rounded gravels and abundant cobbles: Residual tillite.

3.40 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) No sample taken.

CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’11.58"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’32.83"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP8 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67 ESKOM HOLE No: TP9 RETHABISENG NORTH Sheet 1 of 1

JOB NUMBER: 4070

Scale 0.00 1:15 Slightly moist, dark brown, loose, intact, silty gravelly SAND: Hillwash.

0.50 Moist, orangey brown speckled white, medium dense, intact, silty sandy GRAVEL with rounded to sub-rounded gravels and cobbles: Residual tillite.

CBR

3.00 NOTES 1) No groundwater seepage.

2) No sidewall collapse.

3) No refusal.

4) CBR sample taken 0.50--3.00m. CONTRACTOR : INCLINATION : ELEVATION : MACHINE : CAT 427F TLB DIAM : X-COORD : 2843’15.31"E DRILLED BY : DATE : Y-COORD : 2539’32.42"S PROFILED BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 02/03/2016 HOLE No: TP9 TYPE SET BY : K. NAIDOO DATE : 07/04/2016 10:25 SETUP FILE : TP-JG-A4.SET TEXT : C\4070TPLOGS.TXT D06C Jeffares and Green (Pty) Ltd dotPLOT 7020 PBp67

TP1

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Annexure B: LABORATORY TEST RESULTS

W:\Earth Sciences\4070 - Eskom Rethabiseng Substation EA\02 Documents and Reports\J&G Documents\Specialist Studies\Geotech\4070 Eskom Rethabiseng Geotechnical Report Final.docx LETABA LAB ( Pty ) Ltd Reg No. 1995/12513/07 Kragbron Str.24 P.O. Box 739 Nelspruit White River Vat No. 4630157248 CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS LABORATORY 1200 1240

Tel. No: 087 285 0816 Fax. No: 086 6754 843 e-mail : [email protected]

TMH 1:1986 Method A1-A6,A7, A8 GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND ANALYSIS & A9*

Client : Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental ConsultingAddress: P.O. Box 1109, Sunninghill, 2157 Date Sampled: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/1(i) Description : Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP1" from 1.6-3.1m Date Tested: 09-Mar-16 Sieve analysis Soil Mortar Analysis Atterberg

Cumulative percentage passing % of mat. <2,00 mm * Limits Classifications *

sand sand

Description -

(Unified Soil Classification) * -

COLTO

53,0 mm 53,0 mm 37,5 mm 26,5 mm 19,0 mm 13,2 mm 4,75 mm 2,00 mm 0,05

0,425 mm 0,425 mm 0,075 mm 0.005 mm 0.002

Effective size * size Effective

LiquidLimit UnifiedSoil

US.Highway Index Group

Curvature coef. * coef. Curvature

Uniformity - coef. * coef. - Uniformity

Depth( ) m

Grading modulus * modulus Grading Plasticity Index Plasticity

Sample No. Sample

Coarse Fine Silt Clay <2,0 >0,425mm <2,0 >0,05mm<0,425 >0,005mm <0,05 <0,005mm LinearShrinkage

lt Brown Inorganic clay Not 0,006 24,7 0,6 0,96 1.6-3.1m 15364/1 100 93 90 88 83 80 72 51 40,7 6,9 1,1 9,6 39,7 42,1 8,6 24 5 2,5 CL tested A-4 3 SIEVE GRADING HEAVE POTENTIAL * PLASTICITY CHART * SIEVE SIZE ( LOG SCALE ) 70 70 100 15364/1 60 CASAGRANDE 'A' LINE 15364/1 90 50 60 40 CH 80 30 50 20 CL OH and MH 70 VERY HIGH

10 CL - ML ML and OL PLASTICITY INDEX 0 60 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 LIQUID LIMIT ( LL ) 50 PERFORMANCE AS WEARING COURSE * 30 > 550 40 HIGH 500

Slippery CUMULATIVE PERCENTAGE PASSING PERCENTAGE CUMULATIVE 400 30 20 MEDIUM 15364/1 300 Good - may be Ravels

20 SAMPLE WHOLE OF INDEX PLASTICITY Erodible dusty 10 200 materials 10 SHRINKAGE Good LOW 100

Ravels and corrugates

13,200

0,002 0,005 0,075 2,000 0,050 0,425

0 4,750 0 0

0,00 0,01 1,00 10,00 0,10 100,00

26,5 19,0 37,5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 GRADING COEFFICIENT CLAY FRACTION OF WHOLE SAMPLE Remarks: Results marked “* Not SANAS Accredited” in this report are not included in the SANAS Schedule of Accreditation for this laboratory

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested, that was delivered to the lab uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 2016-03-15 Technical signatory (Name) :

SF 5.10-14 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2014-10-17 Pg 1 of 1 15364-1 F-Ind only_TP1_1.6-3.1m LETABA LAB ( Pty ) Ltd Reg No. 1995/12513/07 Kragbron Str.24 P.O. Box 739 Nelspruit White River Vat No. 4630157248 CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS LABORATORY 1200 1240

Tel. No: 087 285 0816 Fax. No: 086 6754 843 e-mail : [email protected]

TMH 1:1986 Method A1-A6,A7, A8 GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND ANALYSIS & A9*

Client : Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental ConsultingAddress: P.O. Box 1109, Sunninghill, 2157 Date Sampled: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/2(i) Description : Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP2" from 0.5-2.1m Date Tested: 09-Mar-16 Sieve analysis Soil Mortar Analysis Atterberg

Cumulative percentage passing % of mat. <2,00 mm * Limits Classifications *

sand sand

Description -

(Unified Soil Classification) * -

COLTO

53,0 mm 53,0 mm 37,5 mm 26,5 mm 19,0 mm 13,2 mm 4,75 mm 2,00 mm 0,05

0,425 mm 0,425 mm 0,075 mm 0.005 mm 0.002

Effective size * size Effective

LiquidLimit UnifiedSoil

US.Highway Index Group

Curvature coef. * coef. Curvature

Uniformity - coef. * coef. - Uniformity

Depth( ) m

Grading modulus * modulus Grading Plasticity Index Plasticity

Sample No. Sample

Coarse Fine Silt Clay <2,0 >0,425mm <2,0 >0,05mm<0,425 >0,005mm <0,05 <0,005mm LinearShrinkage

lt Red. Orange Silty/Clayey Not 0.5-2.1m 0,005 51,7 0,9 1,11 sm/sc 15364/2 sand 100 96 89 82 67 39 33,7 9,6 1,9 17,8 41,1 29,4 11,7 24 7 3,1 tested A-4 1 SIEVE GRADING HEAVE POTENTIAL * PLASTICITY CHART * SIEVE SIZE ( LOG SCALE ) 70 70 100 15364/2 60 CASAGRANDE 'A' LINE 15364/2 90 50 60 40 CH 80 30 50 20 CL OH and MH 70 VERY HIGH

10 CL - ML ML and OL PLASTICITY INDEX 0 60 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 LIQUID LIMIT ( LL ) 50 PERFORMANCE AS WEARING COURSE * 30 > 550 40 HIGH 500

Slippery CUMULATIVE PERCENTAGE PASSING PERCENTAGE CUMULATIVE 400 30 20 MEDIUM 15364/2 300 Good - may be Ravels

20 SAMPLE WHOLE OF INDEX PLASTICITY Erodible dusty 10 200 materials 10 SHRINKAGE Good LOW 100

Ravels and corrugates

13,200

0,002 0,005 0,075 2,000 0,050 0,425

0 4,750 0 0

0,00 0,01 1,00 10,00 0,10 100,00 19,0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 GRADING COEFFICIENT CLAY FRACTION OF WHOLE SAMPLE Remarks: Results marked “* Not SANAS Accredited” in this report are not included in the SANAS Schedule of Accreditation for this laboratory

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested, that was delivered to the lab uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 2016-03-15 Technical signatory (Name) :

SF 5.10-14 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2014-10-17 Pg 1 of 1 15364-2 F-Ind only_TP2_0.5-2.1m LETABA LAB ( Pty ) Ltd Reg No. 1995/12513/07 Kragbron Str.24 P.O. Box 739 Nelspruit White River Vat No. 4630157248 CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS LABORATORY 1200 1240

Tel. No: 087 285 0816 Fax. No: 086 6754 843 e-mail : [email protected]

TMH 1:1986 Method A1-A6,A7, A8 GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND ANALYSIS & A9*

Client : Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental ConsultingAddress: P.O. Box 1109, Sunninghill, 2157 Date Sampled: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/3(i) Description : Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP4" from 0.4-3.1m Date Tested: 09-Mar-16 Sieve analysis Soil Mortar Analysis Atterberg

Cumulative percentage passing % of mat. <2,00 mm * Limits Classifications *

sand sand

Description -

(Unified Soil Classification) * -

COLTO

53,0 mm 53,0 mm 37,5 mm 26,5 mm 19,0 mm 13,2 mm 4,75 mm 2,00 mm 0,05

0,425 mm 0,425 mm 0,075 mm 0.005 mm 0.002

Effective size * size Effective

LiquidLimit UnifiedSoil

US.Highway Index Group

Curvature coef. * coef. Curvature

Uniformity - coef. * coef. - Uniformity

Depth( ) m

Grading modulus * modulus Grading Plasticity Index Plasticity

Sample No. Sample

Coarse Fine Silt Clay <2,0 >0,425mm <2,0 >0,05mm<0,425 >0,005mm <0,05 <0,005mm LinearShrinkage

drk Red Clayey sand Not 0,004 36,5 0,7 0,67 0.4-3.1m 15364/3 100 86 47 42,4 13,7 3,2 13,3 44,2 28,8 13,7 28 8 4,1 SC tested A-4 2 SIEVE GRADING HEAVE POTENTIAL * PLASTICITY CHART * SIEVE SIZE ( LOG SCALE ) 70 70 100 15364/3 60 CASAGRANDE 'A' LINE 15364/3 90 50 60 40 CH 80 30 50 20 CL OH and MH 70 VERY HIGH

10 CL - ML ML and OL PLASTICITY INDEX 0 60 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 LIQUID LIMIT ( LL ) 50 PERFORMANCE AS WEARING COURSE * 30 > 550 40 HIGH 500

Slippery CUMULATIVE PERCENTAGE PASSING PERCENTAGE CUMULATIVE 400 30 20 MEDIUM 15364/3 300 Good - may be Ravels

20 SAMPLE WHOLE OF INDEX PLASTICITY Erodible dusty 10 200 materials 10 SHRINKAGE Good LOW 100

Ravels and corrugates

0,002 0,005 0,075 2,000 0,050

0 0,425 0 0

0,00 0,01 1,00 10,00 0,10 100,00 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 GRADING COEFFICIENT CLAY FRACTION OF WHOLE SAMPLE Remarks: Results marked “* Not SANAS Accredited” in this report are not included in the SANAS Schedule of Accreditation for this laboratory

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested, that was delivered to the lab uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 2016-03-15 Technical signatory (Name) :

SF 5.10-14 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2014-10-17 Pg 1 of 1 15364-3 F-Ind only_TP4_0.4-3.1m LETABA LAB ( Pty ) Ltd Reg No. 1995/12513/07 Kragbron Str.24 P.O. Box 739 Nelspruit White River Vat No. 4630157248 CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS LABORATORY 1200 1240

Tel. No: 087 285 0816 Fax. No: 086 6754 843 e-mail : [email protected]

TMH 1:1986 Method A1-A6,A7, A8 GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND ANALYSIS & A9*

Client : Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental ConsultingAddress: P.O. Box 1109, Sunninghill, 2157 Date Sampled: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/4(i) Description : Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP7 " from 2.0-3.3m Date Tested: 09-Mar-16 Sieve analysis Soil Mortar Analysis Atterberg

Cumulative percentage passing % of mat. <2,00 mm * Limits Classifications *

sand sand

Description -

(Unified Soil Classification) * -

COLTO

53,0 mm 53,0 mm 37,5 mm 26,5 mm 19,0 mm 13,2 mm 4,75 mm 2,00 mm 0,05

0,425 mm 0,425 mm 0,075 mm 0.005 mm 0.002

Effective size * size Effective

LiquidLimit UnifiedSoil

US.Highway Index Group

Curvature coef. * coef. Curvature

Uniformity - coef. * coef. - Uniformity

Depth( ) m

Grading modulus * modulus Grading Plasticity Index Plasticity

Sample No. Sample

Coarse Fine Silt Clay <2,0 >0,425mm <2,0 >0,05mm<0,425 >0,005mm <0,05 <0,005mm LinearShrinkage

lt Red Clayey sand Not 0,007 49,1 0,8 1,23 2.0-3.3m 15364/4 100 98 95 93 85 75 63 38 31,6 6,3 0,7 16,3 41,7 33,7 8,3 29 10 4,7 SC tested A-4 1 SIEVE GRADING HEAVE POTENTIAL * PLASTICITY CHART * SIEVE SIZE ( LOG SCALE ) 70 70 100 15364/4 60 CASAGRANDE 'A' LINE 15364/4 90 50 60 40 CH 80 30 50 20 CL OH and MH 70 VERY HIGH

10 CL - ML ML and OL PLASTICITY INDEX 0 60 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 LIQUID LIMIT ( LL ) 50 PERFORMANCE AS WEARING COURSE * 30 > 550 40 HIGH 500

Slippery CUMULATIVE PERCENTAGE PASSING PERCENTAGE CUMULATIVE 400 30 20 MEDIUM 15364/4 300 Good - may be Ravels

20 SAMPLE WHOLE OF INDEX PLASTICITY Erodible dusty 10 200 materials 10 SHRINKAGE Good LOW 100

Ravels and corrugates

13,200

0,002 0,005 0,075 2,000 0,050 0,425

0 4,750 0 0

0,00 0,01 1,00 10,00 0,10 100,00

26,5 19,0 37,5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 GRADING COEFFICIENT CLAY FRACTION OF WHOLE SAMPLE Remarks: Results marked “* Not SANAS Accredited” in this report are not included in the SANAS Schedule of Accreditation for this laboratory

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested, that was delivered to the lab uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 2016-03-15 Technical signatory (Name) :

SF 5.10-14 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2014-10-17 Pg 1 of 1 15364-4 F-Ind only_TP7_2.0-3.3m LETABA LAB ( Pty ) Ltd Reg No. 1995/12513/07 Kragbron Str.24 P.O. Box 739 Nelspruit White River Vat No. 4630157248 CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS LABORATORY 1200 1240

Tel. No: 087 285 0816 Fax. No: 086 6754 843 e-mail : [email protected]

TMH 1:1986 Method A1-A6,A7, A8 GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND ANALYSIS & A9*

Client : Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental ConsultingAddress: P.O. Box 1109, Sunninghill, 2157 Date Sampled: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/5(i) Description : Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP9" from 0.5-3.0m Date Tested: 09-Mar-16 Sieve analysis Soil Mortar Analysis Atterberg

Cumulative percentage passing % of mat. <2,00 mm * Limits Classifications *

sand sand

Description -

(Unified Soil Classification) * -

COLTO

53,0 mm 53,0 mm 37,5 mm 26,5 mm 19,0 mm 13,2 mm 4,75 mm 2,00 mm 0,05

0,425 mm 0,425 mm 0,075 mm 0.005 mm 0.002

Effective size * size Effective

LiquidLimit UnifiedSoil

US.Highway Index Group

Curvature coef. * coef. Curvature

Uniformity - coef. * coef. - Uniformity

Depth( ) m

Grading modulus * modulus Grading Plasticity Index Plasticity

Sample No. Sample

Coarse Fine Silt Clay <2,0 >0,425mm <2,0 >0,05mm<0,425 >0,005mm <0,05 <0,005mm LinearShrinkage lt Reddish Brown Clayey 0.5-3.0m 15364/5 sand 100 86 77 72 61 54 41 27 20,3 0,0 0,7 24,3 38,2 37,5 0,0 <0.002 4176,1 2,7 1,78 30 9 4,5 SC

10 CL - ML ML and OL PLASTICITY INDEX 0 60 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 LIQUID LIMIT ( LL ) 50 PERFORMANCE AS WEARING COURSE * 30 > 550 40 HIGH 500

Slippery CUMULATIVE PERCENTAGE PASSING PERCENTAGE CUMULATIVE 400 30 20 MEDIUM 15364/5 300 Good - may be Ravels

20 SAMPLE WHOLE OF INDEX PLASTICITY Erodible dusty 10 200 materials 10 SHRINKAGE Good LOW 100

Ravels and corrugates

13,200

0,002 0,005 0,075 2,000 0,050 0,425

0 4,750 0 0

0,00 0,01 1,00 10,00 0,10 100,00

26,5 19,0 37,5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 GRADING COEFFICIENT CLAY FRACTION OF WHOLE SAMPLE Remarks: Results marked “* Not SANAS Accredited” in this report are not included in the SANAS Schedule of Accreditation for this laboratory

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested,that was sampled in accordance with TMH5 : 1991 by Letaba Lab, was uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 2016-03-15 Technical signatory (Name) :

SF 5.10-13 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2015-10-05 Pg 1 of 2 15364-5 Mod,CBR&F-Indy_TP9_0.5-3.0m TMH 1:1986 LETABA LAB CBR and Modified A.A.S.H.T.O Density data Method A7, A8 & A9*

Client: Jeffares & Green Engineering & Environmental Consulting Date tested: 07-Mar-16 Contract : Rethabiseng Doc No: 15364/5(ii) Description: Material delivered to lab with reference "Job no. 4070, TP9" from 0.5- Sample no: 15364/5 3.0m

Maximum dry density = 1973 kg/m³ Optimum moisture content = 10,6 %

1980

1970

1960

1950

1940

1930

Dry Density kg/m3DensityDry 1920

1910

1900 8 9 10 11 12 13 % Moisture

California Bearing Ratio ( readings ) 25,00 PROC 20,00 NRB MOD 15,00

10,00

Penetration Penetration (kN) 5,00

0,00 0,0 1,0 2,0 3,0 4,0 5,0 6,0 7,0 8,0 Penetration (mm)

California Bearing Ratio

100,0 CBR @ 2.54 mm CBR @ 5.08 mm CBR @ 7.62 mm

10,0 CBR CBR

1,0 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 % Compaction

% Compaction 100 98 97 95 93 90 CBR of 13.344 kN 11 10 9 8 5 3 Briquette Info Mod N.R.B. Proc. Dry Density (kg/m³) 1967 1870 1771 Compaction Moisture (%) 10,6 10,5 10,5 Compaction (%) 99,7 94,8 89,8 % Swell 0,46 0,69 0,87

Please note that test results are only relevant to the sample tested,that was sampled in accordance with TMH5 : 1991 by Letaba Lab, was uncontaminated and fit for testing. Any results may only be reproduced in their entirety with the written consent of Letaba Lab (Pty) Ltd, and any remarks made fall outside the scope of our Quality Document. Date Issued: 15-Mar-16 Technical signatory (Name) : Signature:

SF 5.10-13 Report CBR F-Ind Rev 0: 2015-10-05 Pg 2 of 2 15364-5 Mod,CBR&F-Indy_TP9_0.5-3.0m Cultural heritage impact assessment for THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROPOSED RETHABISENG SUBSTATION AND LOOP-IN AND LOOP-OUT LINES, EKANGALA, GAUTENG PROVINCE

Cultural Heritage Assessment Rethabiseng North Substation

CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROPOSED RETHABISENG SUBSTATION AND LOOP-IN AND LOOP-OUT LINES, EKANGALA, GAUTENG PROVINCE

Report No: 2016/JvS/018 Status: Final Revision No: 0 Date: March 2016

Prepared for: Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd Representative: Ms S van der Merwe Postal Address: P O Box 1109, Sunninghill, Gauteng, 2157 Tel: 011 231 2200 E-mail: [email protected]

Prepared by: J van Schalkwyk (D Litt et Phil), Heritage Consultant ASAPA Registration No.: 164 Principal Investigator: Iron Age, Colonial Period, Industrial Heritage

Postal Address: 62 Coetzer Avenue, Monument Park, 0181 Mobile: 076 790 6777 Fax: 086 611 3902 E-mail: [email protected]

Copy Right:

This report is confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed or to whom it was meant to be addressed. It is provided solely for the purposes set out in it and may not, in whole or in part, be used for any other purpose or by a third party, without the author’s prior written consent.

Declaration:

I, J.A. van Schalkwyk, declare that I do not have any financial or personal interest in the proposed development, nor its developers or any of their subsidiaries, apart from the provision of heritage assessment and management services, for which a fair numeration is charged.

J A van Schalkwyk (D Litt et Phil) Heritage Consultant March 2016

i Cultural Heritage Assessment Rethabiseng North Substation

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROPOSED RETHABISENG SUBSTATION AND LOOP-IN AND LOOP-OUT LINES, EKANGALA, GAUTENG PROVINCE

Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit are proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, Gauteng Province.

In accordance with Section 38 of the NHRA, an independent heritage consultant was appointed by Jeffares and Green Engineering and Environmental Consultants to conduct a cultural heritage assessment to determine if the proposed development would have an impact on any sites, features or objects of cultural heritage significance.

The landscape qualities of the area which is very flat, with little resources such as hills, outcrops and open water, that usually drew people to settle a region and as a result it was very sparsely occupied in the past. In addition, due to large scale urbanization of the region over the past 30 to 40 years, as part of the former KwaNdebele homeland, any resources that might have occurred here would have been destroyed.

Impact analysis of cultural heritage resources under threat of the proposed development, are based on the present understanding of the development planned for the three identified localities for the substation site:

 Preferred site

o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

 Alternative 1

o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

 Alternative 3

o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should be authorised:

 From a heritage point of view it is recommended that the proposed development be allowed to continue in any of the three substation sites.

Conditions for inclusion in the environmental authorisation:

 Should archaeological sites or graves be exposed during construction activities, all work must be stopped in the immediate vicinity of the finds and it should immediately be reported to a heritage practitioner so that an investigation and evaluation of it can be made.

ii Cultural Heritage Assessment Rethabiseng North Substation

J A van Schalkwyk Heritage Consultant March 2016

iii Cultural Heritage Assessment Rethabiseng North Substation

TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Property details Province Gauteng Magisterial district Bronkhorstspruit District municipality Kungwini Topo-cadastral map 2528DA Farm name Rietfontein 470JR & Leeuwfontein 466JR Closest town Bornkhorstspruit Coordinates Centre point No Latitude Longitude No Latitude Longitude 1 S 25.65612 E 28.71867

Development criteria in terms of Section 38(1) of the NHR Act Yes/No Construction of road, wall, power line, pipeline, canal or other linear form of Yes development or barrier exceeding 300m in length Construction of bridge or similar structure exceeding 50m in length No Development exceeding 5000 sq m Yes Development involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions No Development involving three or more erven or divisions that have been No consolidated within past five years Rezoning of site exceeding 10 000 sq m No Any other development category, public open space, squares, parks, recreation No grounds

Development Description Construction of an electricity substation Project name Rethabiseng North Substation

Land use Previous land use Farming Current land use Vacant

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... II TECHNICAL SUMMARY ...... IV TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... V LIST OF FIGURES ...... V GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ...... VI 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2. TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 1 3. HERITAGE RESOURCES ...... 2 4. STUDY APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ...... 3 5. SITE SIGNIFICANCE AND ASSESSMENT ...... 5 6. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 7 7. DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ...... 9 8. MANAGEMENT MEASURES ...... 14 9. RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 15 10. REFERENCES ...... 17 APPENDIX 1: CONVENTIONS USED TO ASSESS THE IMPACT OF PROJECTS ON HERITAGE RESOURCES ...... 18 APPENDIX 2. RELEVANT LEGISLATION ...... 20 APPENDIX 3. RELOCATION OF GRAVES ...... 22 APPENDIX 4. SPECIALIST COMPETENCY...... 23 APPENDIX 5: INVENTORY OF IDENTIFIED CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES ...... 24

LIST OF FIGURES

Page Fig. 1. Map indicating the track log of the field survey...... 4 Fig. 2. Location of the study area (yellow/red outline) in regional context...... 7 Fig. 3. Layout of the proposed development...... 8 Fig. 4. Views over the three selected sites ...... 9 Fig. 5. Aerial view of the development site ...... 10 Fig. 6. The 1943 version of the 1:50 000 cadastral map of the study area...... 12 Fig. 7. Location of the identified sites...... 13

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

TERMS

Study area: Refers to the entire study area as indicated by the client in the accompanying Fig. 1 - 2.

Stone Age: The first and longest part of human history is the Stone Age, which began with the appearance of early humans between 3-2 million years ago. Stone Age people were hunters, gatherers and scavengers who did not live in permanently settled communities. Their stone tools preserve well and are found in most places in South Africa and elsewhere. Early Stone Age 2 000 000 - 150 000 Before Present Middle Stone Age 150 000 - 30 000 BP Later Stone Age 30 000 - until c. AD 200

Iron Age: Period covering the last 1800 years, when new people brought a new way of life to southern Africa. They established settled villages, cultivated domestic crops such as sorghum, millet and beans, and they herded cattle as well as sheep and goats. As they produced their own iron tools, archaeologists call this the Iron Age. Early Iron Age AD 200 - AD 900 Middle Iron Age AD 900 - AD 1300 Late Iron Age AD 1300 - AD 1830

Historical Period: Since the arrival of the white settlers - c. AD 1840 - in this part of the country.

ABBREVIATIONS

ADRC Archaeological Data Recording Centre ASAPA Association of Southern African Professional Archaeologists CS-G Chief Surveyor-General EIA Early Iron Age ESA Early Stone Age LIA Late Iron Age LSA Later Stone Age HIA Heritage Impact Assessment MSA Middle Stone Age NASA National Archives of South Africa NHRA National Heritage Resources Act PHRA Provincial Heritage Resources Agency SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency

vi Cultural Heritage Assessment Rethabiseng North Substation

CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROPOSED RETHABISENG SUBSTATION AND LOOP-IN AND LOOP-OUT LINES, EKANGALA, GAUTENG PROVINCE

1. INTRODUCTION

Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit are proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, Gauteng Province.

South Africa’s heritage resources, also described as the ’national estate’, comprise a wide range of sites, features, objects and beliefs. However, according to Section 27(18) of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA), No. 25 of 1999, no person may destroy, damage, deface, excavate, alter, remove from its original position, subdivide or change the planning status of any heritage site without a permit issued by the heritage resources authority responsible for the protection of such site.

In accordance with Section 38 of the NHRA, an independent heritage consultant was appointed by Jeffares and Green Engineering and Environmental Consultants to conduct a cultural heritage assessment to determine if the proposed development would have an impact on any sites, features or objects of cultural heritage significance.

This report forms part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as required by the EIA Regulations in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) as amended and is intended for submission to the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).

2. TERMS OF REFERENCE

The aim of a full HIA investigation is to provide an informed heritage-related opinion about the proposed development by an appropriate heritage specialist. The objectives are to identify heritage resources (involving site inspections, existing heritage data and additional heritage specialists if necessary); assess their significances; assess alternatives in order to promote heritage conservation issues; and to assess the acceptability of the proposed development from a heritage perspective. The result of this investigation is a heritage impact assessment report indicating the presence/ absence of heritage resources and how to manage them in the context of the proposed development. Depending on SAHRA’s acceptance of this report, the developer will receive permission to proceed with the proposed development, on condition of successful implementation of proposed mitigation measures.

2.1 Scope of work

The aim of this study is to determine if any sites, features or objects of cultural heritage significance occur within the boundaries of the area where the development is to take place.

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This includes:

 Conducting a desk-top investigation of the area;  A visit to the proposed development site,

The objectives were to

 Identify possible archaeological, cultural and historic sites within the proposed development areas;  Evaluate the potential impacts of construction, operation and maintenance of the proposed development on archaeological, cultural and historical resources;  Recommend mitigation measures to ameliorate any negative impacts on areas of archaeological, cultural or historical importance.

2.2 Limitations

The investigation has been influenced by the following factors:

 It is assumed that the description of the proposed project, provided by the client, is accurate.  No subsurface investigation (i.e. excavations or sampling) were undertaken, since a permit from SAHRA is required for such activities.  It is assumed that the public consultation process undertaken as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is sufficient and that is does not have to be repeated as part of the heritage impact assessment.  The unpredictability of buried archaeological remains.  This report does not consider the palaeontological potential of the site.

3. HERITAGE RESOURCES

3.1 The National Estate

The NHRA (No. 25 of 1999) defines the heritage resources of South Africa which are of cultural significance or other special value for the present community and for future generations that must be considered part of the national estate to include:

 places, buildings, structures and equipment of cultural significance;  places to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage;  historical settlements and townscapes;  landscapes and natural features of cultural significance;  geological sites of scientific or cultural importance;  archaeological and palaeontological sites;  graves and burial grounds, including- o ancestral graves; o royal graves and graves of traditional leaders; o graves of victims of conflict; o graves of individuals designated by the Minister by notice in the Gazette; o historical graves and cemeteries; and o other human remains which are not covered in terms of the Human Tissue Act, 1983 (Act No. 65 of 1983);  sites of significance relating to the history of slavery in South Africa;  movable objects, including-

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o objects recovered from the soil or waters of South Africa, including archaeological and palaeontological objects and material, meteorites and rare geological specimens; o objects to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage; o ethnographic art and objects; o military objects; o objects of decorative or fine art; o objects of scientific or technological interest; and o books, records, documents, photographic positives and negatives, graphic, film or video material or sound recordings, excluding those that are public records as defined in section 1(xiv) of the National Archives of South Africa Act, 1996 (Act No. 43 of 1996).

3.2 Cultural significance

In the NHRA, Section 2 (vi), it is stated that ‘‘cultural significance’’ means aesthetic, architectural, historical, scientific, social, spiritual, linguistic or technological value or significance. This is determined in relation to a site or feature’s uniqueness, condition of preservation and research potential.

According to Section 3(3) of the NHRA, a place or object is to be considered part of the national estate if it has cultural significance or other special value because of

 its importance in the community, or pattern of South Africa's history;  its possession of uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of South Africa's natural or cultural heritage;  its potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of South Africa's natural or cultural heritage;  its importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of South Africa's natural or cultural places or objects;  its importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group;  its importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period;  its strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons;  its strong or special association with the life or work of a person, group or organisation of importance in the history of South Africa; and  sites of significance relating to the history of slavery in South Africa.

A matrix was developed whereby the above criteria were applied for the determination of the significance of each identified site (see Appendix 1). This allowed some form of control over the application of similar values for similar identified sites.

4. STUDY APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

4.1 Extent of the Study

This survey and impact assessment covers the area as presented in Section 6 below and illustrated in Figure 2.

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4.2 Methodology

4.2.1.1 Survey of the literature A survey of the relevant literature was conducted with the aim of reviewing the previous research done and determining the potential of the area. In this regard, various anthropological, archaeological and historical sources were consulted – see list of references in Section 9.

 Information on events, sites and features in the larger region were obtained from these sources.

4.2.1.2 Data bases The Heritage Atlas Database, the Environmental Potential Atlas, the Chief Surveyor General and the National Archives of South Africa were consulted.

 Database surveys produced a number of sites located in the larger region of the proposed development.

4.2.1.3 Other sources Aerial photographs and topocadastral and other maps were also studied - see the list of references below.

 Information of a very general nature were obtained from these sources

4.2.2 Field survey

The field survey was done according to generally accepted archaeological practices, and was aimed at locating all possible sites, objects and structures. The area that had to be investigated was identified by Jeffares and Green by means of maps and .kml files indicating the development area. This was loaded onto a Nexus 7 tablet and used in Google Earth during the field survey to access the areas.

The site was visited on 5 March 2016. The area was investigated by walking transects across the proposed substation sites and loop-in/loop-out lines – see Fig. 1 below.

Fig. 1. Map indicating the track log of the field survey.

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The following is relevant to the field survey:

 During the site visit the archaeological visibility was slightly hindered by the vegetation encountered (see Fig. 4 below).

4.2.3 Documentation

All sites, objects and structures that are identified are documented according to the general minimum standards accepted by the archaeological profession. Coordinates of individual localities are determined by means of the Global Positioning System (GPS) and plotted on a map. This information is added to the description in order to facilitate the identification of each locality.

The track log and identified sites were recorded by means of a Garmin Oregon 550 handheld GPS device. Photographic recording was done by means of a Canon EOS 550D digital camera.

Map datum used: Hartebeeshoek 94 (WGS84).

5. SITE SIGNIFICANCE AND ASSESSMENT

5.1 Heritage assessment criteria and grading

The National Heritage Resources Act, Act no. 25 of 1999, stipulates the assessment criteria and grading of heritage sites. The following grading categories are distinguished in Section 7 of the Act:

 Grade I: Heritage resources with qualities so exceptional that they are of special national significance;  Grade II: Heritage resources which, although forming part of the national estate, can be considered to have special qualities which make them significant within the context of a province or a region; and  Grade III: Other heritage resources worthy of conservation on a local authority level.

A matrix was developed whereby the criteria, as set out in Sections 3(3) and 7 of the NHRA, were applied for each identified site (see Appendix 1). This allowed some form of control over the application of similar values for similar sites.

The occurrence of sites with a Grade I significance will demand that the development activities be drastically altered in order to retain these sites in their original state. For Grade II and Grade III sites, the applicable of mitigation measures would allow the development activities to continue.

5.2 Methodology for the assessment of potential impacts

All impacts identified during the EIA stage of the study will be classified in terms of their significance. Issues were assessed in terms of the following criteria:

 The nature, a description of what causes the effect, what will be affected and how it will be affected;  The physical extent, wherein it is indicated whether: o 1 - the impact will be limited to the site;

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o 2 - the impact will be limited to the local area; o 3 - the impact will be limited to the region; o 4 - the impact will be national; or o 5 - the impact will be international;  The duration, wherein it is indicated whether the lifetime of the impact will be: o 1 - of a very short duration (0–1 years); o 2 - of a short duration (2-5 years); o 3 - medium-term (5–15 years); o 4 - long term (> 15 years); or o 5 - permanent;  The magnitude of impact, quantified on a scale from 0-10, where a score is assigned: o 0 - small and will have no effect; o 2 - minor and will not result in an impact; o 4 - low and will cause a slight impact; o 6 - moderate and will result in processes continuing but in a modified way; o 8 – high, (processes are altered to the extent that they temporarily cease); or o 10 - very high and results in complete destruction of patterns and permanent cessation of processes;  The probability of occurrence, which describes the likelihood of the impact actually occurring and is estimated on a scale where: o 1 - very improbable (probably will not happen; o 2 - improbable (some possibility, but low likelihood); o 3 - probable (distinct possibility); o 4 - highly probable (most likely); or o 5 - definite (impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures);  The significance, which is determined through a synthesis of the characteristics described above (refer formula below) and can be assessed as low, medium or high;  The status, which is described as either positive, negative or neutral;  The degree to which the impact can be reversed;  The degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and  The degree to which the impact can be mitigated.

The significance is determined by combining the criteria in the following formula:

S = (E+D+M) x P; where

S = Significance weighting E = Extent D = Duration M = Magnitude P = Probability

The significance weightings for each potential impact are calculated as follows:

Table 1: Significance ranking

Significance of impact Extent Duration Magnitude Probability Significance Weight

------

Significant Points Discussion Weighting where this impact would not have a direct < 30 points Low influence on the decision to develop in the area where the impact could influence the decision to 31-60 points Medium develop in the area unless it is effectively

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mitigated where the impact must have an influence on the > 60 points High decision process to develop in the area

6. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This report does not deal with development projects outside of or even adjacent to the study area as is presented in Section 6 of this report. The same holds true for heritage sites, except in a generalised sense where it is used to create an overview of the heritage potential in the larger region.

6.1 Site location

The study area is situated on the western edge of Ekangala, northwest of Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng Province (Fig. 2). For more information, see the Technical Summary on p. iv above.

Fig. 2. Location of the study area (yellow/red outline) in regional context. (Map supplied by Jeffares & Green)

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6.2 Development proposal

Eskom Distribution Gauteng Operating Unit are proposing the construction of a new Distribution Substation and associated loop-in and loop-out lines to be situated in Ekangala, Gauteng Province. The proposed new Substation will be known as the Rethabiseng North 132/11kV 2x20MVA Substation, and will have four fully equipped 11kV feeder bays for feeder splitting. Two powerlines are proposed which will tie in and out of the proposed new substation (Fig. 3). Details of the proposed lines are provided below:

 The Rethabiseng-Rethabiseng North loop-in line which will be approximately 0.5km in length. This line will be a 132kV Kingbird line which will tie into the existing Rethabiseng- Gemsbok line.

For the purpose of the construction of the substation and powerline, a preferred site and two alternative sites have been identified for investigation during the EIA phase.

Fig. 3. Layout of the proposed development. (Map supplied by Jeffares & Green)

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7. DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

7.1 Site description

The geology is made up of tillite, changing to shale just to the north of the study area. The topography is described as moderately undulating plains with isolated pans. The original vegetation is classified as Rocky Highveld Grassland. However, overall this has been impacted on due to the fact that the area was used as agricultural fields (Fig. 5), which would have had a negative impact on heritage sites, features or objects that might have occurred here in the past.

Preferred site: south view West view

Alternative 1: north view West view

Alternative 2: north view East view

Fig. 4. Views over the three selected sites

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Fig. 5. Aerial view of the development site (Photo: Google Earth)

7.2 Overview of the region

The aim of this section is to present an overview of the history of the larger region in order to eventually determine the significance of heritage sites identified in the study area, within the context of their historic, aesthetic, scientific and social value, rarity and representivity – see Section 3.2 and Appendix 1 for more information.

The landscape qualities of the area which is very flat, with little resources such as hills, outcrops and open water, that usually drew people to settle a region and as a result it was very sparsely occupied in the past. In addition, due to large scale urbanization of the region over the past 30 to 40 years, as part of the former KwaNdebele homeland, any resources that might have occurred here would have been destroyed.

Stone Age

The larger region has been inhabited by humans since Early Stone Age (ESA) times. Tools dating to this period are mostly, although not exclusively, found in the vicinity of watercourses. During Middle Stone Age (MSA) times (c. 150 000 – 30 000 BP), people became more mobile, occupying areas formerly avoided. Open sites were still preferred near watercourses.

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These people were adept at exploiting the huge herds of animals that passed through the area, on their seasonal migration. As a result, tools belonging to this period also mostly occur in the open or in erosion dongas. Similar to the ESA material, artefacts from these surface collections are viewed not to be in a primary context and have little or no significance.

Late Stone Age (LSA) people had even more advanced technology than the MSA people and therefore succeeded in occupying even more diverse habitats. Also, for the first time we now get evidence of people’s activities derived from material other than stone tools. Ostrich eggshell beads, ground bone arrowheads, small bored stones and wood fragments with incised markings are traditionally linked with the LSA.

LSA people preferred, though not exclusively, to occupy rock shelters and caves and it is this type of sealed context that make it possible for us to learn much more about them than is the case with earlier periods.

Iron Age

Iron Age people started to settle in southern Africa c. AD 300, with one of the oldest known site at Silver Leaves south east of Tzaneen dating to AD 270. The oldest local EIA site is located at Broederstroom south of Hartebeestpoort Dam and has a radio carbon date of AD 470. Having only had cereals (sorghum, millet) that need summer rainfall, Early Iron Age (EIA) people did not move outside this rainfall zone, and neither did they occupy the central interior highveld area. Because of their specific technology and economy, Iron Age people preferred to settle on the alluvial soils near rivers for agricultural purposes, but also for firewood and water.

The occupation of the larger geographical area (including the study area) did not start much before the 1500s. To understand all of this, we have to take a look at the broader picture. Towards the end of the first millennium AD, Early Iron Age communities underwent a drastic change, brought on by increasing trade on the East African coast. This led to the rise of powerful ruling elites, for example at Mapungubwe.

By the 16th century things changed again, with the climate becoming warmer and wetter, creating condition that allowed Late Iron Age (LIA) farmers to occupy areas previously unsuitable, for example the Witwatersrand and the treeless, windswept plains of the Free State and the Mpumalanga escarpment.

This period of consistently high rainfall started in about AD 1780. At the same time, maize was introduced from Maputo and grown extensively. Given good rains, maize crops yield far more than sorghum and millets. This increase in food production probably led to increased populations in coastal area as well as the central highveld interior by the beginning of the 19th century.

Due to their specific settlement requirements, Late Iron Age people preferred to settle on the steep slope of a mountain, possibly for protection, or for cultural considerations such as grazing for their enormous cattle herds. Because of the lack of trees they built their settlements in stone.

A number of stone-walled archaeological sites dating to the Late Iron Age (c. AD 1640 - AD 1830s), were identified in the larger region. These sites are conventionally associated with Tswana- as well as Ndebele-speaking people. These cover the area from Wallmannsthal to Roodeplaat dam and southwards across the N4 along the Pienaarsrivier. However, the greatest concentration is south of the N4. The most important site in the Dinokeng area is called KoMjekejeke and is situated at the farm Downbern 494JR. Good sites have also been identified on the farm Elandshoek 337JR just southwest of Cullinan.

Historic period

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The first farmers started settling in the region in the 1840’s. By 1850 the first farms were registered. These farms were laid out according to water sources and arable land. The Berlin Mission Society established Wallmannsthal in 1869 as a mission station. F. Grünberger was the first missionary. Knothe succeeded him in 1870. It became an important gathering site for displaced black people both of Tswana and Ndebele origin. Strong emphasis has been placed on education.

Currently the following towns are found in this area: Cullinan, Rayton and Bronkhorstspruit, all of which dates latter half of the 19th century and each has its own history as each developed for a particular reason. As they were small and largely served farming communities, they did not expand rapidly. Consequently, all of them retained many buildings (shops, houses, churches, schools) and other features (cemeteries) of heritage significance. Their establishment was greatly facilitated by the development of the NZASM railway line that linked Pretoria and Lourenço Marques (Maputo). This operation, starting in the 1880s had a huge impact as it opened up the region. But it also left a huge legacy of heritage as a number of features, e.g. bridges, culverts, stations, good sheds, etc. still exist and still forms part of the railway line today.

During the 1920s the old national road (R104, now the N4) was built. Some of the bridges and culverts that formed part of this road still exist.

The various battles and skirmishes resulting from the conflict during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902) had a huge impact on heritage resources in the area, as many farms were burned down. Conversely, it also left a legacy of heritage sites scattered across the veld: fortifications and war cemeteries occur all over. Although most of the conflict centred on the railway line to Lourenço Marques (Maputo), incidents also took place in other areas, e.g. Donkerhoek/Diamond Hill (Cloete 2000).

From the map in Fig. 6 it can be seen that by the 1950s this were still very much a rural farming region. Ekangala township developed as part of the Ekandustria development dating to the 1980s. This area was targeted by the previous government as a “border industry”, i.e. an area on the boundary of a “homeland”, in this case KwaNdebele, where industries could be established in return for tax incentives.

Fig. 6. The 1943 version of the 1:50 000 cadastral map of the study area. (Map 2528DA: Chief Surveyor-General)

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7.3 Identified sites

The following sites, features and objects of cultural significance were identified in the study area – see Appendix 5 for a discussion of each individual site.

In terms of Section 7 of the NHRA, all the sites currently known or which are expected to occur in the study area are evaluated to have a grading as identified in the table below.

Table 2. Summary of identified heritage resources in the study area.

Identified heritage resources Category according to NHRA Number Coordinates Formal protections (NHRA) National heritage site (Section 27) None Provincial heritage site (Section 27) None Provisional protection (Section 29) None Place listed in heritage register (Section 30) None General protections (NHRA) Structures older than 60 years (Section 34) None Archaeological site or material (Section 35) None Palaeontological site or material (Section 35) None Graves or burial grounds (Section 36) None Public monuments or memorials (Section 37) None Other Any other heritage resources (describe) None

Fig. 7. Location of the identified sites. ((Map 2528DA: Chief Surveyor-General)

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7.3.1 Stone Age

 No sites, features or objects dating to the Stone Age were identified in the study area.

7.3 2 Iron Age

 No sites, features or objects dating to the Iron Age were identified in the study area.

7.3.3 Historic period

 No sites, features or objects dating to the historic period were identified in the study area.

7.4 Impact assessment

Impact analysis of cultural heritage resources under threat of the proposed development, are based on the present understanding of the development:

7.4.1 Preferred site

 As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

7.4.2 Alternative 1

 As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

7.4.3 Alternative 3

 As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

8. MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Heritage sites are fixed features in the environment, occurring within specific spatial confines. Any impact upon them is permanent and non-reversible. Those resources that cannot be avoided and that are directly impacted by the proposed development can be excavated/recorded and a management plan can be developed for future action. Those sites that are not impacted on can be written into the management plan, whence they can be avoided or cared for in the future.

8.1 Objectives

 Protection of archaeological, historical and any other site or land considered being of cultural value within the project boundary against vandalism, destruction and theft.  The preservation and appropriate management of new discoveries in accordance with the NHRA, should these be discovered during construction activities.

The following shall apply:

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 Known sites should be clearly marked in order that they can be avoided during construction activities.  The contractors and workers should be notified that archaeological sites might be exposed during the construction activities.  Should any heritage artefacts be exposed during excavation, work on the area where the artefacts were discovered, shall cease immediately and the Environmental Control Officer shall be notified as soon as possible;  All discoveries shall be reported immediately to a heritage practitioner so that an investigation and evaluation of the finds can be made. Acting upon advice from these specialists, the Environmental Control Officer will advise the necessary actions to be taken;  Under no circumstances shall any artefacts be removed, destroyed or interfered with by anyone on the site; and  Contractors and workers shall be advised of the penalties associated with the unlawful removal of cultural, historical, archaeological or palaeontological artefacts, as set out in the National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999), Section 51. (1).

8.2 Control

In order to achieve this, the following should be in place:

 A person or entity, e.g. the Environmental Control Officer, should be tasked to take responsibility for the heritage sites and should be held accountable for any damage.  Known sites should be located and isolated, e.g. by fencing them off. All construction workers should be informed that these are no-go areas, unless accompanied by the individual or persons representing the Environmental Control Officer as identified above.  In areas where the vegetation is threatening the heritage sites, e.g. growing trees pushing walls over, it should be removed, but only after permission for the methods proposed has been granted by SAHRA. A heritage official should be part of the team executing these measures.

9. RECOMMENDATIONS

The aim of the survey was to locate, identify, evaluate and document sites, objects and structures of cultural significance found within the area in which the development is proposed.

The landscape qualities of the area which is very flat, with little resources such as hills, outcrops and open water, that usually drew people to settle a region and as a result it was very sparsely occupied in the past. In addition, due to large scale urbanization of the region over the past 30 to 40 years, as part of the former KwaNdebele homeland, any resources that might have occurred here would have been destroyed.

Impact analysis of cultural heritage resources under threat of the proposed development, are based on the present understanding of the development planned for the three identified localities for the substation site:

 Preferred site

o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

 Alternative 1

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o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

 Alternative 3

o As no site, features or objects of cultural significance are known to exist in the study area, there would be no impact as a result of the proposed development.

Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should be authorised:

 From a heritage point of view it is recommended that the proposed development be allowed to continue in any of the three substation sites.

Conditions for inclusion in the environmental authorisation:

 Should archaeological sites or graves be exposed during construction activities, all work must be stopped in the immediate vicinity of the finds and it should immediately be reported to a heritage practitioner so that an investigation and evaluation of it can be made.

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10. REFERENCES

10.1 Data bases

Chief Surveyor General Environmental Potential Atlas, Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. Heritage Atlas Database, Pretoria. National Archives of South Africa SAHRA Archaeology and Palaeontology Report Mapping Project (2009)

10.2 Literature

Acocks, J.P.H. 1975. Veld Types of South Africa. Memoirs of the Botanical Survey of South Africa, No. 40. Pretoria: Botanical Research Institute.

Cloete, P.G. 2000. The Anglo-Boer War: a Chronology. Pretoria: JP van der Walt.

De Jong, R.C, Van der Waal, G-M. & Heydenrych, D.H. 1988. NZASM 100: The buildings, steam engines and structures of the Netherlands South African Railway Company. Pretoria: Chris van Rensburg Publications.

Küsel, U.S. 2003. Dinokeng project: cultural heritage resources. Pretoria: Unpublished report.

Van Schalkwyk, J. 2003. Heritage impact assessment for the proposed Clover Hill development, Bronkhorstspruit Dam, Gauteng Province. Unpublished report 2003KH33. Pretoria: National Cultural History Museum.

Van Schalkwyk, J.A. 2011a Heritage impact assessment for the proposed upgrade of road R104, Silverton to Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng Province. Pretoria: Unpublished report 2011/JvS048

Van Schalkwyk, J.A. 2011b Cultural heritage inventory for the TRAC N4 toll road east, Pretoria to Maputo. Pretoria: Unpublished report 2011/JvS/56.

Van Schalkwyk, J.A., Pelser, A. & Van Vuuren, C.J. 1996. Investigation of Late Iron Age sites on the farm Hatherley 331JR, Pretoria district. Research by the National Cultural History Museum 5:45-56.

10.3 Maps and aerial photographs

1: 50 000 Topocadastral maps Google Earth

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APPENDIX 1: CONVENTIONS USED TO ASSESS THE IMPACT OF PROJECTS ON HERITAGE RESOURCES

Significance

According to the NHRA, Section 2(vi) the significance of a heritage sites and artefacts is determined by it aesthetic, architectural, historical, scientific, social, spiritual, linguistic or technical value in relation to the uniqueness, condition of preservation and research potential. It must be kept in mind that the various aspects are not mutually exclusive, and that the evaluation of any site is done with reference to any number of these.

Matrix used for assessing the significance of each identified site/feature

1. Historic value Is it important in the community, or pattern of history Does it have strong or special association with the life or work of a person, group or organisation of importance in history Does it have significance relating to the history of slavery 2. Aesthetic value It is important in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group 3. Scientific value Does it have potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of natural or cultural heritage Is it important in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period 4. Social value Does it have strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons 5. Rarity Does it possess uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of natural or cultural heritage 6. Representivity Is it important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of natural or cultural places or objects Importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a range of landscapes or environments, the attributes of which identify it as being characteristic of its class Importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of human activities (including way of life, philosophy, custom, process, land-use, function, design or technique) in the environment of the nation, province, region or locality. 7. Sphere of Significance High Medium Low International National Provincial Regional Local Specific community 8. Significance rating of feature 1. Low 2. Medium 3. High

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Significance of impact: - low where the impact will not have an influence on or require to be significantly accommodated in the project design - medium where the impact could have an influence which will require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation - high where it would have a “no-go” implication on the project regardless of any mitigation

Certainty of prediction: - Definite: More than 90% sure of a particular fact. Substantial supportive data to verify assessment - Probable: More than 70% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of that impact occurring - Possible: Only more than 40% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of an impact occurring - Unsure: Less than 40% sure of a particular fact, or the likelihood of an impact occurring

Recommended management action: For each impact, the recommended practically attainable mitigation actions which would result in a measurable reduction of the impact, must be identified. This is expressed according to the following: 1 = no further investigation/action necessary 2 = controlled sampling and/or mapping of the site necessary 3 = preserve site if possible, otherwise extensive salvage excavation and/or mapping necessary 4 = preserve site at all costs

Legal requirements: Identify and list the specific legislation and permit requirements which potentially could be infringed upon by the proposed project, if mitigation is necessary.

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APPENDIX 2. RELEVANT LEGISLATION

All archaeological and palaeontological sites, and meteorites are protected by the National Heritage Resources Act (Act no 25 of 1999) as stated in Section 35:

(1) Subject to the provisions of section 8, the protection of archaeological and palaeontological sites and material and meteorites is the responsibility of a provincial heritage resources authority: Provided that the protection of any wreck in the territorial waters and the maritime cultural zone shall be the responsibility of SAHRA. (2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (8)(a), all archaeological objects, palaeontological material and meteorites are the property of the State. The responsible heritage authority must, on behalf of the State, at its discretion ensure that such objects are lodged with a museum or other public institution that has a collection policy acceptable to the heritage resources authority and may in so doing establish such terms and conditions as it sees fit for the conservation of such objects. (3) Any person who discovers archaeological or palaeontological objects or material or a meteorite in the course of development or agricultural activity must immediately report the find to the responsible heritage resources authority, or to the nearest local authority offices or museum, which must immediately notify such heritage resources authority. (4) No person may, without a permit issued by the responsible heritage resources authority- (a) destroy, damage, excavate, alter, deface or otherwise disturb any archaeological or palaeontological site or any meteorite; (b) destroy, damage, excavate, remove from its original position, collect or own any archaeological or palaeontological material or object or any meteorite; (c) trade in, sell for private gain, export or attempt to export from the Republic any category of archaeological or palaeontological material or object, or any meteorite; or (d) bring onto or use at an archaeological or palaeontological site any excavation equipment or any equipment which assist in the detection or recovery of metals or archaeological and palaeontological material or objects, or use such equipment for the recovery of meteorites.

In terms of cemeteries and graves the following (Section 36):

(1) Where it is not the responsibility of any other authority, SAHRA must conserve and generally care for burial grounds and graves protected in terms of this section, and it may make such arrangements for their conservation as it sees fit. (2) SAHRA must identify and record the graves of victims of conflict and any other graves which it deems to be of cultural significance and may erect memorials associated with the grave referred to in subsection (1), and must maintain such memorials. (3) No person may, without a permit issued by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority- (a) destroy, damage, alter, exhume or remove from its original position or otherwise disturb the grave of a victim of conflict, or any burial ground or part thereof which contains such graves; (b) destroy, damage, alter, exhume, remove from its original position or otherwise disturb any grave or burial ground older than 60 years which is situated outside a formal cemetery administered by a local authority; or (c) bring onto or use at a burial ground or grave referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) any excavation equipment, or any equipment which assists in the detection or recovery of metals. (4) SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority may not issue a permit for the destruction or damage of any burial ground or grave referred to in subsection (3)(a) unless it is satisfied that the applicant has made satisfactory arrangements for the exhumation and re- interment of the contents of such graves, at the cost of the applicant and in accordance with any regulations made by the responsible heritage resources authority.

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The National Heritage Resources Act (Act no 25 of 1999) stipulates the assessment criteria and grading of archaeological sites. The following categories are distinguished in Section 7 of the Act:

- Grade I: Heritage resources with qualities so exceptional that they are of special national significance; - Grade II: Heritage resources which, although forming part of the national estate, can be considered to have special qualities which make them significant within the context of a province or a region; and - Grade III: Other heritage resources worthy of conservation, and which prescribes heritage resources assessment criteria, consistent with the criteria set out in section 3(3), which must be used by a heritage resources authority or a local authority to assess the intrinsic, comparative and contextual significance of a heritage resource and the relative benefits and costs of its protection, so that the appropriate level of grading of the resource and the consequent responsibility for its management may be allocated in terms of section 8.

Presenting archaeological sites as part of tourism attraction requires, in terms 44 of the Act, a Conservation Management Plan as well as a permit from SAHRA.

(1) Heritage resources authorities and local authorities must, wherever appropriate, co- ordinate and promote the presentation and use of places of cultural significance and heritage resources which form part of the national estate and for which they are responsible in terms of section 5 for public enjoyment, education. research and tourism, including- (a) the erection of explanatory plaques and interpretive facilities, including interpretive centres and visitor facilities; (b) the training and provision of guides; (c) the mounting of exhibitions; (d) the erection of memorials; and (e) any other means necessary for the effective presentation of the national estate. (2) Where a heritage resource which is formally protected in terms of Part l of this Chapter is to be presented, the person wishing to undertake such presentation must, at least 60 days prior to the institution of interpretive measures or manufacture of associated material, consult with the heritage resources authority which is responsible for the protection of such heritage resource regarding the contents of interpretive material or programmes. (3) A person may only erect a plaque or other permanent display or structure associated with such presentation in the vicinity of a place protected in terms of this Act in consultation with the heritage resources authority responsible for the protection of the place.

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APPENDIX 3. RELOCATION OF GRAVES

If the graves are younger than 60 years, an undertaker can be contracted to deal with the exhumation and reburial. This will include public participation, organising cemeteries, coffins, etc. They need permits and have their own requirements that must be adhered to.

If the graves are older than 60 years old or of undetermined age, an archaeologist must be in attendance to assist with the exhumation and documentation of the graves. This is a requirement by law.

Once it has been decided to relocate particular graves, the following steps should be taken:

 Notices of the intention to relocate the graves need to be put up at the burial site for a period of 60 days. This should contain information where communities and family members can contact the developer/archaeologist/public-relations officer/undertaker. All information pertaining to the identification of the graves needs to be documented for the application of a SAHRA permit. The notices need to be in at least 3 languages, English, and two other languages. This is a requirement by law.  Notices of the intention needs to be placed in at least two local newspapers and have the same information as the above point. This is a requirement by law.  Local radio stations can also be used to try contact family members. This is not required by law, but is helpful in trying to contact family members.  During this time (60 days) a suitable cemetery need to be identified close to the development area or otherwise one specified by the family of the deceased.  An open day for family members should be arranged after the period of 60 days so that they can gather to discuss the way forward, and to sort out any problems. The developer needs to take the families requirements into account. This is a requirement by law.  Once the 60 days has passed and all the information from the family members have been received, a permit can be requested from SAHRA. This is a requirement by law.  Once the permit has been received, the graves may be exhumed and relocated.  All headstones must be relocated with the graves as well as any items found in the grave.

Information needed for the SAHRA permit application

 The permit application needs to be done by an archaeologist.  A map of the area where the graves have been located.  A survey report of the area prepared by an archaeologist.  All the information on the families that have identified graves.  If graves have not been identified and there are no headstones to indicate the grave, these are then unknown graves and should be handled as if they are older than 60 years. This information also needs to be given to SAHRA.  A letter from the landowner giving permission to the developer to exhume and relocate the graves.  A letter from the new cemetery confirming that the graves will be reburied there.  Details of the farm name and number, magisterial district and GPS coordinates of the gravesite.

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APPENDIX 4. SPECIALIST COMPETENCY

Johan (Johnny) van Schalkwyk

J A van Schalkwyk, D Litt et Phil, heritage consultant, has been working in the field of heritage management for more than 30 years. Based at the National Museum of Cultural History, Pretoria, he has actively done research in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, museology, tourism and impact assessment. This work was done in Limpopo Province, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North West Province, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho and Swaziland. Based on this work, he has curated various exhibitions at different museums and has published more than 60 papers, many in scientifically accredited journals. During this period he has done more than 2000 impact assessments (archaeological, anthropological, historical and social) for various government departments and developers. Projects include environmental management frameworks, road-, pipeline-, and power line developments, dams, mining, water purification works, historical landscapes, refuse dumps and urban developments.

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APPENDIX 5: INVENTORY OF IDENTIFIED CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES

Nil

24 HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT: INVOICE Invoice to: Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd VAT No: Address: P O Box 1109, Sunninghill, Johannesburg, 2157 Date: 7 March 2016 Attention: Ms S van Eden Project name: Rethabiseng Substation Project No./Invoice No.: 2016/JvS/018 Client Ref No.: J A van Schalkwyk (076 790 6777 - [email protected]) Address: 62 Coetzer Avenue, Monument Park, 0181 Bank details: ABSA, Monument Park, Savings Account No. 9133995307 UNIT RATE/HR TOTAL 1 Professional fees: Initiation meeting 0 R 550.00 R 0.00 Desktop study 4 R 550.00 R 2 200.00 Principal investigator 0 R 550.00 R 0.00 Field survey 8 R 550.00 R 4 400.00 2 Technical analysis: C14 dating 0 R 0.00 R 0.00 Faunal analysis 0 R 0.00 R 0.00 3 GIS Mapping 0 R 550.00 R 0.00 4 Report compilation (hours) 8 R 550.00 R 4 400.00 5 Public participation meeting (if required) 0 R 550.00 R 0.00 6 Disbursements Subsistence - per person per day 0 R 600.00 R 0.00 Travel - R/km 230 R 4.25 R 977.50 7 Copies of report 0 R 100.00 R 0.00 Subtotal R 11 977.50

TOTAL R 11 977.50 PO Box 11019 Tel: 082 828 0668 Erasmuskloof Fax: 086 689 8875 Equispectives 0048 E-mail: [email protected] Research & Consulting Services

2 November 2015

Jeffares & Green (Pty)Ltd Attention: Sonja van der Merwe

Dear Sonja,

SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED RETHABISENG NORTH SUBSTATION

With reference to your correspondence dated 27 October 2015, our quotation for the proposed project.

Project location Ekangala (near Bronkhorstpruit), Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province, South Africa

Industry and project type Energy – substation and associated infrastructure

Services required Social Impact Assessment

Scope of work to be undertaken

• Social Impact Assessment

Deliverables • Social impact assessment report

Equispectives Research and Consulting Services CC 2007/078908/23 VAT reg.: 4260242591 November 2, 2015

Cost

Total Including VAT Professional fees Disbursements Total Excluding VAT

D R49 770.00 R1 251.67 R50 991.67 R58 130.51

Disbursements: Disbursements include travel and GIS. Payment terms: All payments will be due 30 days after submission of a registered tax invoice. Variation: Should the scope of work be changed, Equispectives reserves the right to raise a variation order for time and costs incurred. Any variations raised will be agreed between the Equispectives Project manager and the client’s delegated interface person and will be added to, or deducted from, the existing price. Payment for any variation will be agreed at the same time. Validity of quotation: This quotation remains open and valid for a period of sixty (60) days from the date of closure, 2 November 2015. Project delays after acceptance of proposal: Equispectives reserves the right to increase the remainder of the project fee annually (based on the date of the proposal) with an amount equal to inflation should there be substantial delays in the project after acceptance of the proposal.

Time schedule Deliverable Time required Comment

SIA report 3 months This period include the fieldwork and report writing phase. Work can commence immediately, but please take note that the period between 15 December 2015 and 5 January 2016 will be excluded from the three month period as per the DEA requirements for consultation. The due date for the report will therefore be mid February 2016.

Assumptions and Limitations

• The client will supply the contact details of the affected adjacent land owners;

• All the information pertaining to the public involvement process will be made available to the social scientists;

• The public participation database can be utilised by the social scientists;

• The client will provide all the necessary documentation that they have available and have specified to inform the study to the consultants at no charge and within a reasonable time to complete the requested work;

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• Reasonable time will be given for conducting the study. Social research is time-consuming because of the involvement of the public;

• No public meetings have been included in the cost proposal;

• If any project information or timeframes change the consultants will be informed in writing;

• The social scientists will be informed in writing what the outcomes of this proposal were;

• If additional work other than outlined in this proposal needs to be conducted, it will be charged additionally;

• A fully mobilised team will be available to commence with the project on a specified date. Should there be a delay in the adjudication process, Equispectives reserves the right to amend the programme accordingly depending on capacity at the time;

• Should the Client terminate any order resulting from this proposal, Equispectives will have the right to claim reimbursement for committed expenditure and/or related damages;

• The final report will be the property of the client. However, it is requested that Equispectives is acknowledged in the publication and that it is published in full;

• A maximum of two reviews per report are included in the costing. Additional reviews will be charged for separately; and

• The public consultation team and the SIA team must align their activities to prevent stakeholder fatigue.

Information needs The following information would be required for the SIA:

• Database with contact details and names of affected landowners

• Shapefiles of the proposed development

• Number of jobs created (permanent and temporary) in different phases of the project

• Employment/recruitment policies of proponent

• Duration of construction phase

• Presence and location of construction camps

• Information on where construction force will be housed

• Transport arrangements relating to employees

• Contact details of neighbouring properties

• IAP database

• Details of previous interaction with stakeholders

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Any additional information needs will be communicated to the project manager in good time.

Limits of liability Equispectives accepts no responsibility for any special or consequential losses, damages, or any other costs whether of a direct or indirect nature for whatsoever reason or cause, which may arise from the work performed in accordance with a contract arising from this proposal. Equispectives will undertake to correct any faulty or incorrect work arising from their own execution of the given work scope. Any liability in this regard will be limited to the direct value of the work deemed to be faulty as priced per this proposal, the amount and nature of which shall be agreed between the Client and Equispectives prior to rectification. See attachments for team experience and relevant methodologies.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any enquiries.

Kind regards

Dr Ilse Aucamp

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Project team experience The project team has working experience of compiling social impact assessments, social management plans, social and labour plans, and other social research projects within an environmental context. Projects include (in partnership with Ptersa Environmental Management Consultants):

Mining SLP clients Energy

Smokey Hills Platinum Mine Kumba Iron Ore Waterberg Coal-fired Power Stations Kalplats Mine Platinum Australia Medupi Power Station Waste

Site

Burnstone Mine Umbono Capital Vaal South Power Station Sishen Lylyveld Expansion Masake Resources Mamelodi Hatherley Power

lines

Nokeng Fluorspar Mine HCI Coal Camden Theta transmission

lines New Largo Colliery Taunus transmission line

Paardeplaats Colliery Khanyisa private power station

Sishen Western Waste Dumps Roads Camden Ash Facility Lesego Platinum Mine R40 Ring Road - Bushbuckridge Solar Park Integration Project Human behaviour studies as Strategic social and economic Garona-Aries transmission lines input for public safety analysis of Roads N2 and R72 assessments Property development Industrial plants/ Smelters Other Rietpoort Housing Estate Hoedspruit Ethanol Plant Lebone II School

Doornkuil Residential TPM Uranium Plant Boitshepi Waste Site

Development

Fleurhof Residential Sephaku Chemical Plant Lüderitz Port Expansion Development

Klapmuts Mixed Use Witbank Ferrometals Shoprite/Checkers Social Due

Development Diligence Audits Angola West Ridge Mall – Klerksdorp Babelegi Steel Recycling Facility EnviroServ Angola Social Due Diligence

Mixed used development –

Komatipoort

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Project team: The Equispectives team consists of Ilse Aucamp and San-Marié Aucamp, both experienced social impact assessment practitioners.

• Ilse Aucamp holds a DPhil degree in social work and a Masters degree in environmental management. She is a registered social worker. She has extensive experience in social research and facilitation. " Is a co-author of the International Guidance for Social Impact Assessment document produced by the International Association for Impact Assessment, published in April 2015. " Is the social team leader for the implementation of the Mokolo-Crocodile Water Augmentation Project. This requires the mitigation and management of the social aspects associated with the construction and land acquisition process associated with the water pipeline; " Compiled the Guidelines for Socio-economic Impact Assessment for the Integrated Environmental Management Series Guidelines, Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism in South Africa; " Has conducted more than 100 Social Impact Assessments (SIA), as part of Environmental Impact Assessment Reports. The projects include housing, mining, electricity and other large infrastructure projects; " Has conducted a number of social audits and due diligence studies; " Is on the advisory panel for the Centre for Environmental Rights about social issues; " Is on the advisory panel for the SIAHub – an international resource for the SIA community; " Has conducted the following training regarding social issues: # Social Impact Assessment training for Eskom. # Presented module on Social/Community Issues in Risk Assessment for the Environmental Risk Assessment course at the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Northwest # Presented training courses in Environmental Management topics and Social Impact Assessment at the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Northwest. # Presented training in Social Impact Assessment to Masters Degree students in the Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences at University of the Northwest, the University of the Free State and University of Johannesburg. # Presented training in Social Impact Assessment to final year civil engineering students in the Department of Engineering at University of Pretoria. # Presented training in Social Impact Assessment to Masters Degree students in the Department of Social Work at University of Pretoria. # Developed and presents on the Masters Degree in Social Impact Assessment at the University of Johannesburg. # Compiled and facilitated an international training course about the Population, Environment and Development Nexus for the NGO Leaders in Environment and Development and the Department of Social Development.

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• San-Marié Aucamp has a Masters degree in research psychology. She is a registered research psychologist with extensive experience in both the practical and theoretical aspects of social research. " Lectured Research Methodology on an undergraduate level at the University of Pretoria. " Has worked on more than 100 research projects. " Project size varied from about 10 to 3 500. " Project respondents varied in age, gender, cultural group and educational level. " Experience covers the whole spectrum of a research project like research design (both quantitative and qualitative), project management, reporting and analysis, and client liaison. " Industry experience and clients include the manufacturing, government, automotive, financial services, telecoms and IT as well as FMCG sectors. " Is an experienced facilitator and interviewer that has been trained to do in-depth interviewing – both in groups and individually. " Is a member of the Southern African Marketing Research Association (SAMRA) and adheres to their code of conduct in terms of ethical research. " Is registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and belongs to the Society for Industrial and Occupational Psychology (SIOPSA) as well as the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA).

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Social Impact Assessment methodology It is believed that a participatory approach is the best way to approach social impact assessment in the South African context. Apart from obtaining any permits as required by law, the proposed project would also require “social license to operate” from the community where it will be situated. This is seen to be a crucial element to ensure the successful implementation of any project. Without the buy-in of the affected public the chance of successfully implementing the plan will be slim. The methodology proposed therefore focus on involving the affected public in the research and planning where it is realistically possible and executable. The aim of the study will be to identify possible social impacts associated with the project, and to recommend the most suitable mitigation measures. The following methodology is proposed for the SIA: • The SIA will commence with a baseline description of the study area that will include a review of available literature. This will include relevant legislation and existing provincial and municipal documents and studies, as well as any additional literature that is deemed to be applicable to the study. This study will focus on the local and regional level.

• Necessary demographic data will be obtained from Statistics South Africa and Municipal Integrated Development Plans.

• A scoping exercise consisting of an information search will be conducted.

• This will be followed up with a period of fieldwork to obtain additional information and communicate with key stakeholders. Stakeholders typically include town councils, tribal councils, landowners, the relevant farmer’s associations, community representatives, forums and political leaders, amongst others.

• Information will be obtained via focus groups, formal and informal interviews, participatory rural appraisal, observation, the Internet and literature reviews. Notes will be kept of all interviews and focus groups. More detailed planning regarding this can only be done once more detailed information is given, and key stakeholders have been identified.

• An interview schedule might used instead of formal questionnaires. An interview schedule consists of a list of topics to be covered, but it is not as structured as an interview. It provides respondents with more freedom to elaborate on their views.

• The final SIA report will focus on current conditions, providing baseline data. Each category will discuss the current state of affairs, but also investigate the possible impacts that might occur in future. Recommendations for mitigation will be made at the end of the report.

• The SIA will have a participatory focus. This implies that the SIA will focus strongly on including the local community and key stakeholders. Participatory methods will be used to identify local economic development projects.

• Impacts will be rated according to the prescribed impact tables.

• Information obtained through the stakeholder engagement process will inform the writing of the SIA and associated documents.

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