Draft Basic Assessment Report

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

KROONSTAD FARMER PRODUCTION

SUPPORT UNIT FEZILE DABI DISTRICT

MUNICIPALITY, FREESTATE PROVINCE,

SOUTH AFRICA

Prepared By:

Environmental Management Group

P.O. Box 28242, Danhof, 9310

June 2018

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, promulgated in terms of the National EnvironmentalPrepared Management For: Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended. Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (For official use only)

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT DESTEA Ref No: NEAS Ref No: Application Number: Date Received:

Kindly note that:

1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

2. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing.

3. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report.

4. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision.

5. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

6. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority.

7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted.

8. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner.

9. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process.

10. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this YES NO section? If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for appointment of a specialist for each specialist thus appointed: Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail1: Environmental Management Group has been appointed by SMEC South Africa for the Department: Rural Development and Land Reform to conduct the Basic Assessment application of the Kroonstad Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU).

The FPSU is a rural outreach unit connected with the Agri-Hub. It focusses on primary collection, storage, processing, and extension services including mechanization. The proposed Kroonstad FPSU will consist of the following: • Security offices • Reception and admin offices & Multi-purpose training centre • Retail space and tourism facility • Storage units / facilities for mobile units (include a cold storage) • Multi-purpose animal handling facilities for training • Multi-purpose animal handling – buildings • Logistic centre with training and workshop • Feed store/ Pack House • 500 Cattle feedlot

The main concept of the Kroonstad FPSU is to provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers in the Moqhaka Local Municipal area. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment and is also based on the main commodities identified in the Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Master Business Plan, which is red meat, poultry (chicken), and maize. The FPSU will also incorporate private sector businesses, forums, union, and other stakeholders to assist with training and the provision of support services.

The FPSU envision to provide the following key elements in terms of support to the local farmers:

• Information Services • Input support • Mechanisation Support • Facilities

1 Please note that this description should not be a verbatim repetition of the listed activity as contained in the relevant Government Notice, but should be a brief description of activities to be undertaken as per the project description.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • Training • Market intelligence

The FPSU is set to be located within Kroonstad within the Moqhaka Local Municipality of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality. The FPSU site is located on the right-hand side of the R76 provincial road, approximately 5 km north-west of the Kroonstad Central Business District. The location of the FPSU site was chosen for its proximity to the commonage and smallholder farmers in the region. The distance from the Kroonstad FPSU to the Parys Agri- Hub is approximately 98 km when driving from the R721 provincial road.

The proposed site has a relatively flat topography. The site was used for agricultural activities, such as grazing and dryland farming. There are no existing buildings on the site and some areas are fenced with a stock fence, installed by the neighbouring owners. There are other small holdings with resident buildings surrounding the proposed site.

There is no water supply dedicated to the proposed FPSU site, however there is Municipal water supply pipeline that service the community in Meadows and currently there is no existing bulk water sewer line, and electricity point dedicated on site. The proposed layout falls within close proximity to wetland areas. Relevant specialists were consulted to conclude the status of the wetlands. The wetlands were also delineated to avoid any construction inside the wetlands.

The proposed site in The Meadows Small Holding is currently leased from the department by the local farmers.

The cattle feedlot will start off as a 200 unit feedlot and expand to a 500 unit feedlot. The mortality rate is estimated to be below 3%. All mortalities will be supplied to surrounding game farm owners as feed for their predators. The waste of the feedlot is to be collected from the holding pens and drained into the retention pond. The retention pond consists of 2 dams lined with impenetrable layers. Effluent will be collected into the first dam where solid waste will sink to the bottom and grey water will flow over into the second pond. This grey water will be used for irrigation purposes on surrounding rangelands. Once the first dam full of solid waste, it will be cleaned and sold to nurseries as compost. The first dam will only be full after approximately 10 years.

The secondary wetlands situated in close proximity will be clearly demarcated to prevent heavy machinery form entering the wetland areas. It will also be maintained form alien invasive encroachment throughout the lifespan of the project.

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

“alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to— (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken;

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity. Describe alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.

Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

3. ACTIVITY POSITION

Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. List alternative sites, if applicable.

Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative: Alternative S12 (preferred or only site 27° 36'55.31" S 27° 12'26.76” E alternative) Alternative S2 (if any) o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S3 (if any) o ‘ o ‘ In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S2 (if any) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S3 (if any) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ • End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment.

4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints): Alternative: Size of the activity: Alternative A13 (preferred activity alternative) 15 000m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2 or, for linear activities:

2 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives. 3 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Length of the activity:

Alternative: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m Alternative A2 (if any) m Alternative A3 (if any) m

Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Size of the Alternative: site/servitude: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2

5. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES NO If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built

Describe the type of access road planned:

The FPSU is located within Kroonstad within the Moqhaka Local Municipality of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality. The FPSU site is located on the right-hand side of the R76 provincial road, approximately 5 km north-west of the Kroonstad Central Business District. Site is easily accessible from the gravel road that joins to the R76 Provincial Road.

Please study Appendix A for project layout plan.

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site.

6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document.

The site or route plans must indicate the following: 6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500; 6.2 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site; 6.3 the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or sites; 6.4 the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site;

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication infrastructure; 6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres; 6.7 walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material; 6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; 6.9 sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but not limited thereto): ▪ rivers; ▪ the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA); ▪ ridges; ▪ cultural and historical features; ▪ areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or invested with alien species); 6.10 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and 6.11 the positions from where photographs of the site were taken.

7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this form. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable.

8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 as Appendix C for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity.

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? R 24 049 750.00 What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of R 200 000,00 the activity? Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES NO Is the activity a public amenity? YES NO

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development It states that commercial phase of the activity? agriculture has the potential to create 250 000 direct jobs and a further 130 000 indirect jobs. This particular FPSU at Kroonstad contributes to this goal of the National Development Plan What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the Building contractors will development phase? have to be consulted in this regard. What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Building contractors will have to be consulted in this regard How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during The FPSU will have 23 job the operational phase of the activity? opportunities once it is operational What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during Estimated salaries paid per the first 10 years? year: R1 638 000.00 Total for 10 years: 16 380 000.00 What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? For employees, it is dependent on the recruiting process which will be conduct near the end of the operational phase of the project. Proposed ownership structure dictates that 70% is owned by previously disadvantaged individuals

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity

Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

NEED: 1. Was the relevant provincial planning department involved in the YES NO application? 2. Does the proposed land use fall within the relevant provincial planning YES NO framework? 3. If the answer to questions 1 and / or 2 was NO, please provide further motivation / explanation:

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

DESIRABILITY: 1. Does the proposed land use / development fit the surrounding area? YES NO 2. Does the proposed land use / development conform to the relevant YES NO structure plans, SDF and planning visions for the area? 3. Will the benefits of the proposed land use / development outweigh the YES NO negative impacts of it? 4. If the answer to any of the questions 1-3 was NO, please provide further motivation / explanation:

5. Will the proposed land use / development impact on the sense of place? YES NO 6. Will the proposed land use / development set a precedent? YES NO 7. Will any person’s rights be affected by the proposed land use / YES NO development? 8. Will the proposed land use / development compromise the “urban edge”? YES NO 9. If the answer to any of the question 5-8 was YES, please provide further motivation / explanation. The proposed FPSU will have a positive influence on the sense of place, as it will entail a modern design. The current status of the environment is degraded, which will be enhanced through the development. The proposed development will set a precedent to other sector departments. This initiative will form the baseline example for the rest of South-Africa. The rights of each individual of the Free State will be positively affected by means of food production and availability of food and knowledge.

BENEFITS: 1. Will the land use / development have any benefits for society in general? YES NO 2. Explain: Food security and the lack of knowledge are two of the main concerns under the local farmer and general communities of the Free State Province. The FPSU provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers in the Moqhaka local area. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment. The FPSU will also incorporate private sector businesses, forums, union, and other stakeholders to assist with training and the provision of support services.

3. Will the land use / development have any benefits for the local YES NO communities where it will be located? 4. Explain: FPSU is to provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers in the Moqhaka Local Municipal area. These support and

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment and is also based on the main commodities identified in the Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Master Business Plan, which is red meat, poultry (chicken), and maize. The FPSU will also incorporate private sector businesses, forums, union, and other stakeholders to assist with training and the provision of support services.

10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable:

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: Title of legislation, policy or guideline Applicability to the Administering project authority National Environmental Management Act, 107 of Regulations under Department of 1998 (amended in 2014) NEMA in particular Environmental Regulation 327 require Affairs (DEA) National Environmental Management Act the following listed (NEMA) can be regarded as the most important activities to undertake piece of general environmental legislation. It Basic Assessment. provides a framework for environmental law reform and covers three areas, namely: GN 327 Item 4(i), 8, 12, • Land, planning and development. 27, 28(ii) • Natural and cultural resources, use and conservation. • Pollution control and waste management.

The law is based on the concept of sustainable development. The object of NEMA is to provide for co-operative environmental governance through a series of principles relating to: • the procedures for state decision-making on the environment; and • the institutions of state which make those decisions.

The NEMA principles serve as: • a general framework for environmental planning; • guidelines according to which the state must exercise its environmental functions; and

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • a guide to the interpretation of NEMA itself and of any other law relating to the environment. What are the NEMA principles? Some of the most important principles contained in NEMA are that: • environmental management must put people and their needs first; • development must be socially, environmentally and economically sustainable; • there should be equal access to environmental resources, benefits and services to meet basic human needs; • government should promote public participation when making decisions about the environment; • communities must be given environmental education; • workers have the right to refuse to do work that is harmful to their health or to the environment; decisions must be taken in an open and transparent manner and there must be access to information; • the role of youth and women in environmental management must be recognized; the person or company who pollutes the • environment must pay to clean it up; • the environment is held in trust by the state for the benefit of all South Africans; and • the utmost caution should be used when permission for new developments is granted.

The NEMA is enforced by the Department of Environmental Affairs. In the Free State Province this delegated role is fulfilled by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs. Regulations 544 promulgated under NEMA require the following listed activities to undertake Basic Environmental Assessment, which are the subject of this BAR:

National Water Act, 36 of 1998 (Amended 2006) Construction of Department of boreholes for additional Water Affairs

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT In terms of the NWA, the national government, water supply. Triggering acting through the Minister of Water Affairs Section 21 water use (―the Minister), is the public trustee of South activities, e.g.21 (a), (c), Africa‘s water resources, and must ensure that (i) water is protected, used, development, conserved, managed and controlled in a sustainable and equitable manner for the benefit of all persons. The Minister is responsible to ensure that water is allocated equitably and used beneficially in the public interest, while promoting environmental values. The national government, acting through the Minister, has the power to regulate the use, flow and control of all water in South Africa.

The most fundamental departure from the old legislation is the removal of the concept of water as private property. Instead, water will be made available through user licences and general authorizations, which may be issued for a maximum period of 40 years, subject to renewal. A priority of users has been established for the allocation of licences, with the environment near the top of the list of priorities.

The following water uses, as defined in section 21 of the National Water Act 1998, have been identified which require general authorization and applicable in this report.

National Heritage Resources Act, 25 of 1999 SAHRA should be South African notified if any artefacts / Heritage In terms of Section 38 of the National Heritage graves / fossils / Resources Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999) the following features of heritage Agency developments require an Heritage Impact importance are Assessment prior to proceeding with observed during the construction: reparation process.

• Any development or other activity which will change the character of a site • Exceeding 5 000 m2 in extent; or • Involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions thereof; or • Involving three or more erven or divisions thereof which have been consolidated within the past five years; or

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • The costs of which will exceed a sum set in terms of regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority; • The re-zoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m2 in extent; or • Any other category of development provided for in regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority, must at the very earliest stages of initiating such a development, notify the responsible heritage resources authority and furnish it with details regarding the location, nature and extent of the proposed development.

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

11(a) Solid waste management Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the YES NO construction/initiation phase? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 24m3 How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? It will be disposed of at the Municipal landfill site Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? The landfill site of Nala Local Municipality Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES NO If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 44m3 How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? The waste of the feedlot is to be collected from the holding pens and drained into the retention pond. The retention pond consists of 2 dams lined with impenetrable layers. Effluent will be collected into the first dam where solid waste will sink to the bottom and grey water will flow over into the second pond. This grey water will be used for irrigation purposes on surrounding rangelands. Once the first dam full of solid waste, it will be cleaned and sold to nurseries as compost. The first dam will only be full after approximately 10 years.

The dry manure will be stockpiled at the manure stockpile section, which will be lined and covered to prevent flies from breeding in the stockpile. The manure will be sold to local farmers and nurseries as garden compost. The feedlot will be cleaned on a monthly basis to prevent dust, smell and manure form accumulating in the holding pens. Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)? The dry manure will be stockpiled at the manure stockpile section, which will be lined and covered to prevent flies from breeding in the stockpile. The manure will be sold to local farmers and nurseries as garden compost.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the YES NO relevant legislation? If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment YES NO facility? If yes, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

11(b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be YES NO disposed of in a municipal sewage system? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 135.78m3 Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on YES NO site? If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at YES NO another facility? If yes, provide the particulars of the facility:

Facility name: Contact person: Postal address: Postal code: Telephone: Cell: E-mail: Fax: Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any: The waste of the feedlot is to be collected from the holding pens and drained into the retention pond. The retention pond consists of 2 dams lined with impenetrable layers. Effluent will be collected into the first dam where solid waste will sink to the bottom and grey water will flow over into the second pond. This grey water will be used for irrigation purposes on surrounding rangelands. Once the first dam full of solid waste, it will be cleaned and sold to nurseries as compost. The first dam will only be full after approximately 10 years.

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? YES NO

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration:

11(d) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES NO If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level: During the construction phase noise will be generated to a minimal, on account of heavy machinery operating. These operations will be limited to working hours from 7:00 to 17:00 to prevent disturbance to the surrounding environment.

12. WATER USE

Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es) municipal water board groundwater river, stream, other the activity will not dam or lake use water If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month: 450m3 is required. No Bore hole is drilled yet. A WULA will be submitted to DWS as soon as drilling took place. Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs? YES NO If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this application if it has been submitted.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient: Currently there is no dedicated electricity point on the site, however, there is existing electrical supply lines close to the proposed FPSU that service the surrounding area.

The electrical network will be underground, with the service connections to the facilities also underground and in service channels and wire ways. The electrical network will be designed in accordance with Local Supply Authority specification.

The voltage regulation design will be done in accordance with Local Supply Authority specification. All loads on each phase shall be balanced as far as practical. Where identified and necessary, equipment having special requirements with respect to variations in voltage and/or waveform will be provided with a power supply that is adequately stabilized and/or filtered.

Each facility on the FPSU unit will be provided with a conventional kWh-type meter, to enabling the monitoring of energy consumption and assist in cost allocation and recovery. Metering for power supply to common use areas, including lighting, will be separate from that of the individual facilities. The physical nature and details of the kiosks/enclosures will be decided on during the design development process. Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any: NA

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

Important notes: 1. For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section C and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section C Copy No. (e.g. A):

2. Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of YES NO this section? If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for each specialist thus appointed: All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

Property The Small Holdings 297, portion 1 description/physical address: (Farm name, portion etc.) Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g. linear activities), please attach a full list to this application.

In instances where there is more than one town or district involved, please attach a list of towns or districts to this application. Current land-use zoning: Agriculture and small holdings In instances where there is more than one current land-use zoning, please attach a list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains to , to this application.

Is a change of land-use or a consent use application required? YES NO Must a building plan be submitted to the local authority? YES NO

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Locality map: An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A. The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.) The map must indicate the following: • an indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative sites, if any; • road access from all major roads in the area; • road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the site(s); • all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and • a north arrow; • a legend; and • locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co- ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection)

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5 Alternative S2 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5 Alternative S3 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site:

2.1 Ridgeline 2.2 Plateau 2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain 2.4 Closed valley 2.5 Open valley 2.6 Plain 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills 2.8 Dune 2.9 Seafront

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

Is the site(s) located on any of the following (tick the appropriate boxes)? Alternative S1: Alternative S2 Alternative S3 (if any): (if any): Shallow water table (less YES NO YES NO YES NO than 1.5m deep) Dolomite, sinkhole or doline YES NO YES NO YES NO areas

Seasonally wet soils (often YES NO YES NO YES NO close to water bodies) Unstable rocky slopes or YES NO YES NO YES NO steep slopes with loose soil Dispersive soils (soils that YES NO YES NO YES NO dissolve in water) Soils with high clay content YES NO YES NO YES NO (clay fraction more than 40%) Any other unstable soil or YES NO YES NO YES NO geological feature An area sensitive to erosion YES NO YES NO YES NO

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. (Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted).

4. GROUNDCOVER

Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site:

The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

Natural veld Natural veld with Veld Natural veld - good with scattered heavy alien dominated by Gardens conditionE aliensE infestationE alien speciesE Cultivated Building or Sport field Paved surface Bare soil land other structure

If any of the boxes marked with an “E “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that does currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:

5.1 Natural area 5.2 Low density residential 5.3 Medium density residential 5.4 High density residential 5.5 Informal residentialA 5.6 Retail commercial & warehousing 5.7 Light industrial 5.8 Medium industrial AN 5.9 Heavy industrial AN 5.10 Power station 5.11 Office/consulting room 5.12 Military or police base/station/compound 5.13 Spoil heap or slimes damA 5.14 Quarry, sand or borrow pit 5.15 Dam or reservoir 5.16 Hospital/medical centre 5.17 School 5.18 Tertiary education facility 5.19 Church 5.20 Old age home 5.21 Sewage treatment plantA 5.22 Train station or shunting yard N 5.23 Railway line N 5.24 Major road (4 lanes or more) N 5.25 Airport N 5.26 Harbour 5.27 Sport facilities 5.28 Golf course 5.29 Polo fields 5.30 Filling station H 5.31 Landfill or waste treatment site 5.32 Plantation 5.33 Agriculture 5.34 River, stream or wetland 5.35 Nature conservation area 5.36 Mountain, koppie or ridge 5.37 Museum 5.38 Historical building 5.39 Protected Area 5.40 Graveyard

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 5.41 Archaeological site 5.42 Other land uses (describe)

If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity?

If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? If YES, specify and explain: N/A If YES, specify:

If any of the boxes marked with an "H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity. If YES, specify and explain: N/A If YES, specify:

6. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as YES NO defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the Uncertain site? If YES, explain: If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site. Briefly explain the findings of the specialist: Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage YES NO Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? If yes, please submit or, make sure that the applicant or a specialist submits the necessary application to SAHRA or the relevant provincial heritage agency and attach proof thereof to this application if such application has been made.

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SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. ADVERTISEMENT

The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by—

(a) fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required information in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of— (i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken; and (ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application; (b) giving written notice to— (i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land; (ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area; (v) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; (vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and (vii) any other party as required by the competent authority; (c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or (ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations; (d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and (e) using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to— (i) illiteracy; (ii) disability; or (iii) any other disadvantage.

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

A notice board, advertisement or notices must:

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(a) indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation; and (b) state— (i) that the application has been submitted to the competent authority in terms of these Regulations, as the case may be; (ii) whether basic assessment or scoping procedures are beingapplied to the application, in the case of an application for environmental authorisation; (iii) the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates; (iv) where further information on the application or activity can be obtained; and (iv) the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the application may be made.

3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, indicating that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of applications made in terms of the EIA regulations.

Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES

The practitioner must ensure that the public participation is adequate and must determine whether a public meeting or any other additional measure is appropriate or not based on the particular nature of each case. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the public participation process was inadequate.

5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT

The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before the application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to this application. The comments and response report must be attached under Appendix E.

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6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION

Please note that a complete list of all organs of state and or any other applicable authority with their contact details must be appended to the basic assessment report or scoping report, whichever is applicable.

Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT List of authorities from whom comments have been received:

Moqhaka Local Municipality - Mr Tokelo Qhena

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7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

Note that, for linear activities, or where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that subregulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority. Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable. Has any comment been received from stakeholders? YES NO If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application):

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SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties.

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Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report as Annexure E):

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

List the potential direct, indirect and cumulative property/activity/design/technology/operational alternative related impacts (as appropriate) that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed.

Alternative (preferred alternative) Direct impacts:

Indirect impacts:

Cumulative impacts:

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) DESIGN AND PLANNING PHASE Environmental Legal and Direct impacts: HIGH The planning and design of the Agri-Park Policy compliance Failure to adhere to existing policies and legal development must comply with all relevant obligations could lead to the project conflicting legislation and Policies. with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in lack of institutional support for the project, overall project failure and undue disturbance to the natural environment. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: None Bulk services Direct impacts: HIGH Confirmation from the municipality must be Insufficient capacity of municipal sewage works sought to ensure the municipal sewage works to treat sewage from the development. can treat the amount of sewage generated by the proposed development, and if not what measures is in place to upgrade capacity. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: MEDIUM Confirmation from the municipality must be Increased development and ongoing operations sought to ensure the municipal sewage works will increase cumulative generation of can treat the amount of sewage generated by the sewerage, use of potable water and electricity. proposed development, and if not what measures

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT is in place to upgrade capacity. No-go option Should the No-go option be Direct impacts: MEDIUM Illegal dumping should be severely dealt with, implemented this activity It is likely that illegal dumping of domestic and and the perpetrators fined or prosecuted. would per definition not building wastes will occur on the vacant land. entail any construction Vagrants and loiters should be encouraged to impacts. Vagrancy could start, with the associated safety seek help though interventions by the local and fire risks. authorities.

Invasion of alien plant species would continue Alien plants should be cleared. unchecked. Alien invasive plants should be cleared. Loss of opportunities in terms of potential short Firebreaks should be cut and maintained along and long term employment and education. the property boundaries. The local authority fire and disaster management plans should be put in place.

The local authority’s LED policy would be tested to find replacement employment opportunities. Increased burden on state for social security.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) CONSTRUCTION PHASE Construction camp and Direct impacts: MEDIUM The construction camp must be located in an construction activities Siting of construction camp could lead to area that will not create a visual and noise negative environmental impacts including dust, hazard, not create a traffic hazard. noise, soil contamination and erosion, and visual pollution. The position must be determined in conjunction with the Environmental Control Officer (ECO) (see Environmental Management Plan – Appendix F) Indirect impacts: HIGH Construction activities must account for reducing The generation of dust, noise and visual and controlling dust, noise and visual impacts. impacts will create a nuisance factor in the area, particularly with regards to the Method Statements must be written and adhered surrounding residential areas, as well as the to for measures to control and reduce noise, dust riverine area located in close proximity. and visual impacts.

Construction work must only take place in normal working hours, unless the neighbours are informed and agree to other working hours. Cumulative impacts: - None Impacts on indigenous Direct impacts: MEDIUM The development area is defined as remaining in vegetation Vegetation on site consists mainly of its natural state, contain natural habitats for fauna indigenous vegetation. The area to be cleared and flora species, therefore: of indigenous vegetation remains small of scale compared to the size of the surrounding area Ensure the Environmental Management Plan

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT containing similar indigenous vegetation. includes localities of these plants and if applicable animals, and measures to rescue, protect/remove them.

Any tortoises or other reptiles found should be relocated to places of safety. (the surrounding areas to the development site is vacant, relocation could be to these areas)

No hunting or trapping of animals to be permitted.

All persons should be sensitized to the fact that they are working in an open veld area, and ALL fauna encountered must be treated with respect. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: - None Hydrological – Storm water Direct impacts: MEDIUM Storm water run-off generated within the System and water supply Initially storm water runoff will be as per natural development will flow to the retention pond, state i.e. infiltration into soils and sheet which will be cleaned by the municipality once washing. full.

The construction of roads associated compacting of soils and land transformation will result in higher levels of storm water runoff, with the possibility of increased erosion and decline

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT in water quality. Indirect impacts: MEDIUM Personnel will be instructed not to waste water Insufficient bulk water supply exists. during the construction phase. Residential extension possibility will be negatively affected if water supply and construction of infrastructure is not considered.

The construction phase of the development will require very little water. Cumulative impacts: - MEDIUM Investigation into the upgrading of water supply Additional strain on current water supply and storage capacity and supply is required in order water supply infrastructure. to accommodate additional residential erven. Waste – Sewage / Effluent Direct impacts: LOW Portable toilets will be supplied for personnel Very little sewage will be generated during the during the construction phase of the construction phase. development.

Thereafter, suitable connection to the municipal sewerage system will take place. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Waste – Building Rubble & Direct impacts: LOW The building waste will be transported at the Littering Littering may occur by personnel during Building Contractors / Developer’s cost to the construction phase. Municipality’s landfill site.

Building waste will thus be continuously Waste and litter drums will be placed at strategic generated in small quantities over the points for use by personnel.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT construction period. The drums will be regularly emptied and waste removed to the Municipal’s landfill site.

The municipality should ensure that municipal by- laws regarding waste disposal are upheld by the single residential home owners and their builders.

Illegal dumping of domestic and other waste should not be allowed. Warning signs should be erected, spot fines imposed or even prosecution should occur if dumping continues.

The Developer will display an all-hours telephone number on the site for emergency calls or complaints. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Land transformation – Dust Direct impacts: MEDIUM The Developer should ensure that dust levels are Levels Increased dust levels due to the clearing of kept to a minimum by: vegetation, earthmoving activities and movement of vehicles may impact on air quality Exposing only those areas to be developed i.e. and possibly surrounding natural vegetation. areas corresponding to road surfaces, cables and pipelines.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Keeping these areas and access routes moist by applying water at regular intervals.

The Developer will display an all-hours telephone number on the site for emergency calls or complaints.

Manure from the feedlot will be removed on a monthly basis to prevent dust from accumulating in the surrounding areas.

A tree lining will also be erected on the boundary of the FPSU. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Land transformation – Direct impacts: LOW The Developer will ensure that noise levels are Noise Levels Increased levels of noise due to earthmoving & kept to a minimum by: construction activities. Associated noise may potentially impact on nearby residential Limiting operation of heavy earthmoving neighbourhoods, or natural surrounding equipment and construction activities to normal ecosystems. working hours, and to normal work days (i.e. Monday to Friday, between 08h00 and 17h00).

Silencers (sound bafflers) will be maintained to ensure effective sound dampening.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT The Developer will display an all-hours telephone number on the site for emergency calls or complaints. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Land transformation – Direct impacts: MEDIUM The Developer will ensure that fire fighting Veldfire Machinery and human activity will increase equipment is available onsite in the event that an veldfire risk levels. accidental fire should break out. A fire-officer should be appointed and all workers should be The site is currently covered in natural and made aware of fire-fighting procedures. alien invasive vegetation, and a veldfire may spread to adjacent natural areas. Grading of areas demarcated for and the construction of internal roads will act as firebreaks.

Construction workers will not be allowed to make fires on the site.

The Developer will display an all-hours telephone number on the site for emergency calls or complaints. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Increased levels of traffic Direct impacts: MEDIUM The Developer will ensure that traffic flow is not

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT The transportation of construction and road impeded by avoiding the transportation of building material will increase traffic in materials during peak traffic hours of 7:00 am – Kroonstad. The additional trips will have 8:00am and 4:00pm – 5:00pm. negligible impact on the current traffic flows. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Socio-Economic Direct impacts: LOW The Developer will secure the building site by Casual labour taking advantage of the job fencing off the construction yard. opportunities created by the construction phase may increase the number of people loitering, The Developer should ensure that the appointed levels of vagrancy and possibly petty crime. building contractor manages his/her labour force in such a way as to discourage the employment of casual labour.

Labour should be transported to and from work.

Labour brokering, if allowed, should be dealt with off-site.

Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None No-go option Should the No-go option be Direct impacts: MEDIUM Illegal dumping should be severely dealt with, implemented this activity It is likely that illegal dumping of domestic and and the perpetrators fined or prosecuted.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT would per definition not building wastes will occur on the vacant land. entail any construction Vagrants and loiters should be encouraged to impacts. Vagrancy could start, with the associated safety seek help though interventions by the local and fire risks. authorities.

Invasion of natural veld by alien plant species Alien plants should be cleared. would continue unchecked. Alien invasive plants should be cleared. Loss of opportunities in terms of potential short and long-term employment, food production Firebreaks should be cut and maintained along and education. the property boundaries. The local authority fire and disaster management plans should be put in place.

The local authority’s LED policy would be tested to find replacement employment opportunities. Increased burden on state for social security. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Activity Impact Summary Significance Proposed mitigation Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) OPERATIONAL PHASE Ecological impacts on Direct impacts: LOW None Fauna and Flora Loss of species and or habitat due to transformation. Indirect impacts: n.a None No additional impacts are expected during the operational phase. Cumulative impacts: None None Hydrological – Storm water Direct impacts: LOW Storm water run-off generated within the Land transformation due to the establishment of proposed development should be accommodated proposed structures will result in higher levels through formal systems. of storm water runoff. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Waste – Domestic Direct impacts: LOW Domestic waste will be removed once a week as It is calculated that waste will be generated by per the normal routine and disposed of at the the new proposed development. Municipal landfill site.

Sufficient capacity is still to be determined at Waste and litter drums could be placed at the solid waste disposal site in Kroonstad for strategic points for use by the public. The drums the disposal of waste. will be emptied regularly.

Waste minimization strategies could be investigated by the Municipality to encourage the composting of vegetative waste and recycling of glass, paper and plastics. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - MEDIUM Continued monitoring of the Municipal WWTW If insufficient waste disposal becomes a reality, will be mandatory throughout the lifetime of the pollution of the natural surrounding areas will Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU). take place until the issue will be resolved Traffic Impact Direct impacts: MEDIUM No mitigation measures are recommended. The proposed development will generate Traffic will be accommodated through the newly additional traffic in the area. designed road infrastructure and internal street network. Indirect impacts: - None Cumulative impacts: - None Direct impacts: MEDIUM Regularly inspections by the owner as well as Disease outbreaks Poor hygienic conditions in the FPSU will result state veterinary services.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT in disease outbreaks Proper disposal of condemned animal mortalities • Very hygienic to prevent distribution of diseases. conditions and low stress The premises must be fenced and provided with levels of animals will a gate to control access of people and animals. contribute to a healthy Indirect impacts: MEDIUM Contain the contaminated and affected animals environment. If the disease spread, surrounding landowners before the disease spread. will also be affected. • Any suspicious Cumulative impacts: symptoms will immediately None be reported to the inspector by the facility operator.

• Mortalities disposal. Odours created throughout Direct impacts: MEDIUM If the FPSU is thoroughly taken care of regularly, the operational phase of Odours is generated through the remaining very little unpleasant smells will occur. the FPSU animal material from the cattle feedlot farm and If animal waste is immediately removed from the animal handling facility. site no unpleasant smells will occur. The handling removal and disposal for animal waste products must be in terms of legal requirements and as per guidance through an approved operational Environmental Management Plan. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: None Pollution of surface or Direct impacts: MEDIUM Construction of a separation pit is required to groundwater by Waste water from the FPSU will be generated. capture any solids or contaminants before grey-

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT contaminated water from water enters the environment. the FPSU. Clean and dirty areas must function separately. Condemned material must be collected and hold in sealed containers before disposal. Disposal of condemned material is recommended to be either by denaturing or mortality pit (Ottaway pits). If Ottaway pits are used these should be dug 600mm deep with lockable lids and lined to prevent leakages. A detailed environmental management program should be complied that includes waste generation management. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: None Rodents Direct impacts: MEDIUM Monitoring the occurrence of rodents and Rodents will be attracted to the storage unit, as manage by means of traps. well as pack houses due to extensive food availability. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: None Socoi-Economic Direct impacts: HIGH None Job opportunities will be created throughout the lifetime of the project. The standard of the livelihoods of the local community will be

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT enhanced Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: HIGH None Job opportunities will be created throughout the lifetime of the project. The standard of the livelihoods of the local community will be enhanced. Educational Direct impacts: HIGH None The proposed facilities to be constructed at the FPSU will entail buildings for educational purposes for the local community to enhance agricultural and economic knowledge of the local community. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: HIGH The proposed facilities to be constructed at the FPSU will entail buildings for educational purposes for the local community to enhance agricultural and economic knowledge of the local community. Food Security Direct impacts: HIGH None Food security and the lack of knowledge are two of the main concerns under the local farmer and general communities of the Free State Province. The FPSU provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT developing farmers in the Moqhaka local area. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment.

Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: HIGH None The proposed FPSU strives to provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs which is red meat. No-go option Should the No-go option be Direct impacts: MEDIUM Illegal dumping should be severely dealt with, implemented this activity It is likely that illegal dumping of domestic and and the perpetrators fined or prosecuted. would per definition not building wastes will occur on the vacant land. entail any construction Vagrants and loiters should be encouraged to impacts. Vagrancy could start, with the associated safety seek help though interventions by the local and fire risks. authorities.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT and long-term employment. the property boundaries. The local authority fire and disaster management plans should be put in place.

The local authority’s LED policy would be tested to find replacement employment opportunities. Increased burden on state for social security. Indirect impacts: None Cumulative impacts: None

Activity Impact Summary Significance Proposed mitigation Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) DECOMMISSIONING PHASE This is a FPSU development in a region where food, agricultural development and education is limited. No closure of this proposed development is foreseen for foreseeable future. A complete impact assessment in terms of Regulation 23 of GN R.326 must be included as Appendix F.

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3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts.

Alternative A (preferred alternative) In terms of the potential impacts resulting from the proposed preferred development during the planning, design construction and operational phase, the most significant impacts are those related to land transformation i.e. impact on fauna, loss of floral species; loss of habitat, visual impact associated with the clearing of vegetation; the construction of roads; increased levels of dust; and socio-economic impacts associated with a potential increase in loitering and petty crime associated with casual labour.

The primary findings of the above processes were that the proposed development of the FPSU would probably result in: • No negative environmental impacts of high significance if the mitigation measures are implemented; • Potential positive impacts due to increased economic activity, employment and capacity building.

Other less significant impacts include increased noise and traffic levels due to construction vehicles.

All of these impacts can be adequately addressed by the implementation of suitable mitigation measures.

In terms of potential impacts resulting from the proposed preferred development during the operational phase, the most significant impacts are those related to land transformation and increase traffic generation and waste generation by the FPSU. Fly populations also needs to be monitored during the operational phase.

Major positive impacts during the operational phase is socio-economic, educational and food security. All of these will enhance the livelihoods of the local community.

Other less significant impacts include increased domestic waste.

All of these impacts can be adequately addressed by the implementation of suitable mitigation measures.

The preferred layout option is selected above any other alternative layout options if those consider higher dwelling density, this will only increase water demand and sewage removal during the operational Phase.

In the opinion of Environmental Management Group Consultants, there are no environmental impacts that have been identified that will be detrimental to the environment to such an extent that the proposed development should not be permitted, nor were any sensitive environmental components or fatal environmental flaws identified within the study area, such that should result in refusal of environmental authorization for this application. Therefore, it is recommended that this application receives favourable consideration, given that the overall social impact of this proposed activity will be of a positive nature.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT SIGNIFICANCE RATING

The impacts that may result from the planning and design phase, construction phase, operation phase and decommissioning phase of the project was assessed according to a number of criteria to arrive at an overall significance rating. The criteria used were as follows:

Spatial Scale Site (S) Immediate area of impact Local (L) Area within 20km of the development Regional (R) Entire Municipality

Duration Short Term (ST) Less than the duration of the activity Medium Term (MT) Impact persists until activity ceases Long Term (LT) Impact persists well beyond the cessation of the activity Permanent (P) Impact is permanent

Probability Low (L) Unlikely Medium (M) Possible High (H) Likely

Intensity Low (L) Ecological functions may continue undisturbed. No rare or endangered species affected. No objection from I&APs. Medium (M) Ecological functioning temporary affected. No rare or endangered species affected. Some concern from I&APs. High (H) Ecological functioning permanently altered. Rare or endangered species impacted. Major concern from I&APs.

Significance Impacts can be Low, Medium or High and can be positive (+ve) or negative (–ve).

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT IMPACT IMPACT ACTIVITY ALTERNATIVE 1

SIGNIFICANCE TYPE PROBABILITY

MITIGATED

DURATION

INTENSITY

SPATIAL

Positive (+) SCALE

POST POST or Negative (-)

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Environmental Legal (-) Failure to adhere to legal obligations could result in overall project failure. L LT M H M and Policy Compliance Bulk Services (-) Insufficient capacity of municipal sewage works to treat sewage from the development. L MT L H M

CONSTRUCTION PHASE DIRECT IMPACTS Construction camp (-) Siting of construction camp could lead to negative environmental impacts including dust, L ST H M L and activities noise, soil contamination and erosion, and visual pollution. Impacts on indigenous (-) Loss of indigenous vegetation. S ST H M L vegetation Hydrological, (-) The construction of roads associated compacting of soils and land transformation will result S LT H M L stormwater system in higher levels of storm water runoff, with the possibility of increased erosion and decline in water quality. and water supply Waste – Sewage / (-) Improper or insufficient ablution facilities for personnel during construction phase. S ST L L L Effluent Waste – Building Littering may occur by personnel during construction phase. S ST M L L rubble and littering Land transformation (-) Increased levels of noise due to earthmoving & construction activities. Associated noise may S ST M L L – Dust Levels potentially impact on nearby residential neighbourhoods. Land transformation (-) Increased levels of noise due to earthmoving & construction activities. Associated noise may S ST M L L – Noise levels potentially impact on nearby residential neighbourhoods. 51

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Land transformation Machinery and human activity will increase veldfire risk levels. L ST M L M – Veldfires Increased levels of (-) The transportation of construction and road material will increase heavy traffic in Kroonstad. L MT M M M traffic The additional trips will have negligible impact on the current traffic flows. Socio-Economic (-) Casual labour taking advantage of the job opportunities created by the construction phase S ST M M L may increase the number of people loitering, levels of vagrancy and possibly petty crime. OPERATIONAL PHASE DIRECT IMPACTS Ecological impacts (-) Loss of species and or habitat due to transformation. S LT H M L on Fauna and Flora Hydrological – Storm (-) Land transformation due to the establishment of the proposed structures may result in higher S LT H M M water levels of storm water runoff. Waste – Domestic (-) It is estimated that domestic waste will be generated by the new proposed development. S LT H M M

Traffic Impact (-) The proposed development will generate additional traffic in the area. L LT H M M Disease outbreaks (-) Poor hygienic conditions in the FPSU will result in disease outbreaks R MT M H L Odours created (-) Odours is generated through the remaining animal material such as bones and blood L MT M M L throughout the operational phase of the FPSU Pollution of surface (-) Waste water from the FPSU will be generated and will contain manure, as well as other L MT M M L or groundwater by waste by-products contaminated water from the FPSU Rodents (-) Rodents will be attracted to the pack houses due to extensive food availability S ST H M L Socio-Economic (+) Job opportunities will be created throughout the lifetime of the project. The standard of the R LT H H H livelihoods of the local community will be enhanced. Educational (+) The proposed facilities to be constructed at the FPSU will entail buildings for educational R LT H H H purposes for the local community to enhance agricultural and economic knowledge of the local community. Food Security (+) Food security and the lack of knowledge are two of the main concerns under the local farmer R LT H H H 52

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT and general communities of the Free State Province. The FPSU provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers in the Moqhaka local area. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

No-go alternative (compulsory) The proposed FPSU development is preferred above the No-go Option for reasons including that the land is earmarked in planning documents for agricultural development, the FPSU development will contribute to the local economy in the short term (construction phase) and create a larger number of permanent employment opportunities in the longer term (operational phase).

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SECTION E. RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached YES NO hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the environmental assessment practitioner)?

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment):

If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application: ▪ The project should remain in full compliance with the requirements of the EMP and with all regulatory requirements; ▪ The EMP should be implemented by senior qualified environmental personnel that have competence and credibility to interpret the requirements of the EIA and the EMP, and that must be issued with a written mandate by a senior management member of Moqhaka Local Municipality to provide guidance and instructions to the contractors; ▪ Stakeholder engagement must be maintained during the closure/rehabilitation phases of the project, with the emphasis on ongoing provision of information stakeholder relations; ▪ A detailed record of all activities related to environmental and social management, as well as stakeholder engagement, should be retained for review and audit by independent parties for all phases of the project. The audit findings should be made available to the relevant environmental and local authorities; and ▪ Any substantive changes to the project configuration should be the subject of environmental assessments and should result in amendments to the EMP. Information related to any such changes should be made available to the authorities as well as for public review in the spirit of full disclosure. Is an EMPr attached? YES NO The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F.

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SECTION F: APPENDIXES

The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:

Appendix A: Site plan(s)

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

Appendix D (i): Heritage Impact Assessment

Appendix D (ii): Ecological Impact Assessment

Appendix D (iii): Agricultural Potential

Appendix E: Comments and responses report

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G (i): Public Participation Process

Appendix G (ii): EASFS Kroonstad FPSU Business Case

Appendix G (iii): Site report for the FPSU in Kroonstad

Appendix H: Details of EAP and expertise

Appendix I: Landowners Consent Letter

Appendix J: Approval letter from for connection to municipal water, waste and electricity

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Appendix A: Site plan(s)

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STOCKPILE

MANURE

POND

RETENTION 8

HOLDING PENS (14 x 14m)

CATTLE FEED LOT

WETLANDS

STORAGE FEED SHED & SHED FEED

WETLANDS

Court Yard Court 2

PARKINGS 5 3 1 N DRAWING DESCRIPTION PROJECT ENGINEER PROJECT CLIENT CLIENT PROJ No - PHASE DISCIPLINE STAGE DOC SERV LEV SEQ (SHEET) No. Fax (051) 447-6000 Bloemfontein, South Africa 9301 Tel. (051) 411-8700 23 Second Avenue Website: //www.smec.com WESTDENE 0 DEPARTMENT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND LAND REFORM 22-11-2017 DESIGNED Etienne Swanepoel 2013 07-09-2017 DATE Date REFERENCE DOCUMENTS REVISION SCHEDULE \\ZAPKFPP001\VelaVKE Projects\BCM62 - Technical Support for DRDLR\3 Working\Drawings\agripark logo.jpg LAYOUT PLAN DRAWING NUMBER KROONSTAD ISSUED FOR INFORMATION CONCEPT BCM62-2017 T.E Mphane FPSU NOTES: 1:1000 DRAWN SCALE PR ENG no. Revision Description E. CHECKED A3 SIZE de Waal DATE DATE REV 1

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Appendix B: Photographs

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Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

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STOCKPILE

MANURE

POND

RETENTION 8

HOLDING PENS (14 x 14m)

CATTLE FEED LOT

WETLANDS

STORAGE FEED SHED & SHED FEED

WETLANDS

Court Yard Court 2

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Appendix D: Specialist reports

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Appendix D (i): Heritage Impact Assessment

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Phase 1 Heritage Impact Assessment of a proposed new Agri-Park development in Kroonstad, Free State Province.

Report prepared by: Palaeo Field Services PO Box 38806, Langenhoven Park 9330 04 / 06 / 2018

Summary A phase 1 Heritage Impact Assessment was carried out for the proposed new Agri- Park facility in Kroonstad, Free State Province. The affected area covers 4.6 ha of open flat grassland at The Meadows, situated in Alwyn Schlebusch Street (R76 provincial road) and about 4.5 km northwest of the Kroonstad CBD. Outcrop visibility is hampered by the low relief terrain. The study area is capped by a veneer of superficial Quaternary deposits (trampled residual soil), where no fossils were observed. Although not potentially as productive as localities found in areas of high relief, the proposed development may still impact on fossil-bearing Adelaide Subgroup strata and such fresh exposures may well be of palaeontological interest. As far as the palaeontological heritage is concerned, the development can proceed, but given the nature and scale of the development (trenching for building foundations and associated services), any excavation within the development footprint larger than 1 m2 that exceeds depths of >1 m into unweathered/fresh Adelaide Subgroup sediments, will require one site visit for monitoring by a professional palaeontologist. It is therefore advised that, as part of a follow-up Phase 1 Palaeontological Impact Assessment, a professional palaeontologist should monitor unweathered/fresh sedimentary bedrock should large scale excavations into unweathered/fresh sedimentary bedrock be conducted during the construction phase of the development. The pedestrian survey revealed no evidence of in situ Stone Age archaeological material, capped or distributed as surface scatters on the landscape. There are also no indications of rock art (engravings), prehistoric structures, graves or historically significant buildings older than 60 years within the boundaries of the study area. The terrain has been severely degraded by (modern) cultivation activities. It is regarded as of low archaeological significance and is assigned a rating of Generally Protected C (GP.C). As far as the archaeological heritage is concerned, the proposed development may proceed with no additional heritage assessments necessary, provided that all excavation activities are restricted to within the boundaries of the development footprint.

Table of Contents Summary ...... 2 Introduction ...... 4 Locality Data ...... 6 Background ...... 6 Field Assessment ...... 7 Impact Statement & Recommendation ...... 8 References ...... 9 Tables & Figures ...... 11

3 Introduction A phase 1 Heritage Impact Assessment was carried out for the proposed new Agri- Park facility in Kroonstad, Free State Province (Fig. 1). The assessment is required as a prerequisite for new development in terms of the National Environmental Management Act and is also called for in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA) 25 of 1999. The region’s unique and non-renewable archaeological heritage sites are ‘Generally’ protected in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999, section 35) and may not be disturbed at all without a permit from the relevant heritage resources authority. As many such heritage sites are threatened daily by development, both the environmental and heritage legislation require impact assessment reports that identify all heritage resources in the area to be developed, and that make recommendations for protection or mitigation of the impact of such sites. The NHRA identifies what is defined as a heritage resource, the criteria for establishing its significance and lists specific activities for which a heritage specialist study may be required. In this regard, categories relevant to the proposed development are listed in Section 34 (1), Section 35 (4), Section 36 (3) and Section 38 (1) of the NHR Act and are as follows: 34. (1) No person may alter or demolish any structure or part of a structure which is older than 60 years without a permit issued by the relevant provincial heritage resources authority. 35 (4) No person may, without a permit issued by the responsible heritage resources authority—

• 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; 36 (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;

4 • (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. 38 (1) Subject to the provisions of subsections (7), (8) and (9), any person who intends to undertake a development categorised as—

• The construction of a road, wall, power line, pipeline, canal or other similar form of linear development or barrier exceeding 300m in length;

• The construction of a bridge or similar structure exceeding 50m in length;

• Any development or other activity which will change the character of the site a) exceeding 5000 m² in extent; or b) involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions thereof; or c) involving three or more subdivisions thereof which have been consolidated within the past five years;

• The rezoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m²; or

• Any other category of development provided for in regulations by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).

Terms of Reference The task involved the following: • Identify and map possible heritage sites and occurrences using available resources.

• Determine and assess the potential impacts of the proposed development on potential heritage resources;

• Recommend mitigation measures to minimize potential impacts associated with the proposed development. Methodology The heritage significance of the affected area was evaluated on the basis of existing field data, database information and published literature. This was followed by a field assessment by means of a pedestrian survey. A Garmin Etrex Vista GPS hand model 5 (set to the WGS 84 map datum) and a digital camera were used for recording purposes. Maps and aerial photographs (incl. Google Earth) were consulted and integrated with data acquired during the on-site inspection. Field Rating Site significance classification standards prescribed by SAHRA (2005) were used to indicate overall significance and mitigation procedures where relevant (Table 1).

Locality Data The affected area covers 4.6 ha of open flat grassland at The Meadows, situated in Alwyn Schlebusch Street (R76 provincial road) and about 4.5 km northwest of the Kroonstad CBD (Fig. 2 & 3). Proposed land uses include a retail facility; tourism centre; feed store, packhouse, holding pens and administration buildings. Maps: 1:50 000 topographical map 2727CA Kroonstad 1:250 000 geological map 2726 Kroonstad Centroid Site Coordinates: 27°36'53.40"S 27°12'28.88"E

Background The geology of the region has been described by Schutte (1993) and Johnson (2006) and is shown on the 1: 250 000 geological map 2726 Kroonstad (Council for Geoscience, Pretoria 1997). The affected area is underlain by Late Permian Beaufort Group sediments of the lower Adelaide Subgroup (Pa) (Fig. 4). These sedimentary rocks form the base on which younger, superficial Quaternary deposits have been deposited. Dykes and sills of palaeontologically insignificant Jurassic dolerites (Jd) determine the relief of the surrounding area. The affected area is situated within the Dicynodon Assemblage Zone (AZ) near the latter’s eastern boundary with the Early Triassic sediments of the younger Lystrosaurus AZ (Rubidge 1995) (Fig. 5). The Dicynodon Assemblage represents the terminal phase of the Palaeozoic continental biota, that was dominated by therapsid “mammal-like reptiles” and Glossopteris Flora before it was largely wiped out by the end-Permian Mass Extinction Event (Ward et al. 2005). Fossil types from this biozone are listed in Keyser & Smith (1978-79) and Kitching (1995). Therapsids from this biozone occur generally well-preserved in mudrock horizons and are usually found as dispersed and isolated specimens associated with an abundance of calcareous nodules (Kitching 1995). Other vertebrate fossils include palaeoniscoid fish and crocodile-like temnospondyl amphibians.

6 Overlying Late Cenozoic valley fill deposits (e.g. Vals River alluvium) may occasionally contain much younger fossil biotas, including the skeletal remains of Quaternary mammals, non-marine molluscs and a variety of other microfossils (e.g. pollen & phytolith – bearing organic-rich sediments). The central Free State region between Bloemfontein and Kroonstad is generally rich in Stone Age open-site assemblages, the majority of which are linked to floodplain deposits (overbank sediments) associated with the Modder, Vet and Vals River systems, as well as pan dunes and artesian springs (Brink 1987; Churchill et al. 2001). This may include capped occurrences and surface scatters of long, high-backed blades from the early Middle Stone Age; typical Florisian retouched blades, trimmed points and Levallois core types; the characteristically large sidescrapers, sub-circular and endscrapers from the Lockshoek Industry (terminal Pleistocene); and the Smithfield Industries of the Holocene. The archaeological footprint in the region is primarily dominated by Late Iron Age stone wall complexes. Maggs’ classification of settlement patterns (1976) provided the first major contribution to our knowledge of the Iron Age prehistory of the Free State. It showed that the settlement patterns produced huts of different materials in different styles. Type Z settlements are sparsely scattered over a relatively limited area in the vicinity of Doringberg between Winburg and Ventersburg and to the northwest along the Vals River in the districts of Kroonstad and Bothaville, including a few sites on the Renoster River, east of Viljoenskroon (Walton 1956; Maggs 1976; Dreyer 1997). Stone enclosures are found on and around dolerite koppies along the Vals river valley near Kroonstad between Bothaville and Lindley (Fig. 6 & 7). The town of Kroonstad was laid out on the farm Klipplaatsdrift in 1855. It is generally accepted to have been named after Kroondrift, which was a river crossing where a horse named Kroon was said to have broken its leg (Raper 1987). The town center includes several declared historical buildings including the Old Market Square Post Office and Prison Cells, the Old market building, the Town Hall, the Nederduitse Gereformeerde Moederkerk, the Old Magistrate's Office and the North Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk.

Field Assessment Outcrop visibility is hampered by the low relief terrain. The study area is capped by a veneer of superficial Quaternary deposits (trampled residual soil), where no fossils

7 were observed (Fig. 8). The pedestrian survey revealed no evidence of in situ Stone Age archaeological material, capped or distributed as surface scatters on the landscape. There are also no indications of rock art (engravings), prehistoric structures, graves or historically significant buildings older than 60 years within the boundaries of the study area (Fig. 9).

Impact Statement & Recommendation Although not potentially as productive as localities found in areas of high relief, the proposed development may still impact on fossil-bearing Adelaide Subgroup strata and such fresh exposures may well be of palaeontological interest. As far as the palaeontological heritage is concerned, the development can proceed, but given the nature and scale of the development (trenching for building foundations and associated services), any excavation within the development footprint larger than 1 m2 that exceeds depths of >1 m into unweathered/fresh Adelaide Subgroup sediments, will require one site visit for monitoring by a professional palaeontologist. It is therefore advised that, as part of a follow-up Phase 1 Palaeontological Impact Assessment, a professional palaeontologist should monitor unweathered/fresh sedimentary bedrock should large scale excavations into unweathered/fresh sedimentary bedrock be conducted during the construction phase of the development. The palaeontologist must apply for a valid collection / removal permit from SAHRA if fossil material is found during the construction phase of the development. In the unlikely event of fossil discovery within the Quaternary overburden (i.e. modern- looking but more or less lithified animal bones and teeth), elsewhere during the construction phase of the development, a professional palaeontologist must be called in immediately to confirm and record the finds. In the meantime, ex situ remains must be wrapped in paper towels or heavy duty tin foil and stored in a safe place. The material should not be washed or cleaned in any way. In situ material must be kept in place and protected from further damage by covering it with light but rigid object like a box, bucket or metal sheet until further confirmation by the palaeontologist. The terrain has been severely degraded by (modern) cultivation activities. It is regarded as of low archaeological significance and is assigned a rating of Generally Protected C (GP.C). As far as the archaeological heritage is concerned, the proposed development may proceed with no additional heritage assessments necessary,

8 provided that all excavation activities are restricted to within the boundaries of the development footprint.

References

Brink, J.S. 1987. The archaeozoology of Florisbad, Orange Free State. Memoirs of the National Museum 24: 1 – 151. Dreyer J. 1992. The lron Age Archaeology of Doornpoort, Winburg, Orange Free state. Navorsinge van die Nasionale Museum Bloemfontein 8(7): 262-390. Johnson, M.R. et. al. 2006. Sedimentary Rocks of the Karoo Supergroup. In: M.R. Johnson, et. al. (eds). The Geology of South Africa. Geological Society of South Africa. Keyser, A.W. & Smith, R.M.H. 1978-79. Vertebrate biozonation of the Beaufort Group with special reference to the western Karoo Basin. Annals of the Geological Survey of South Africa 12: 1-35. Kitching, J.W. 1977. The distribution of Karoo Vertebate Fauna. Bernard Price Institute for Palaeontological Research. Memoir 1, 1 – 131. Kitching, J.W. 1995. Biostratigraphy of the Dicynodon AZ. In: B.S. Rubidge (ed) Biostratigraphy of the Beaufort Group. Biostrat. Ser. S.Afr. Comm. Strat. 1, 29 – 34. Maggs, T.C. 1976. Iron Age communities of the southern Highveld. Occasional Papers of the Natal Museum No. 2. Rubidge, B. S. 1995. (ed.) Biostratigraphy of the Beaufort Group. Biostrat. Ser. S.Afr. Comm. Strat. 1, 1 – 46. Sampson, G. 1984. Site clusters in the Smithfield Settlement Pattern. South African Archaeological Bulletin 39:5 – 23. Van Riet Lowe, C. 1941. Prehistoric art in South Africa. Archaeological Series No. 5. Dept. of the Interior. Pretoria. Maggs T. M. O’C 1976. Iron Age Communities of the Southern Highveld. Occasional Publications of the Natal Museum No. 2. Natal Museum, Pietermaritzburg. Raper P.E. (1987) Dictionary of Southern African Place Names. Walton, J. 1965. Early Ghoya Settlements in the Orange Free State. Memoirs of the National Museum 2. Ward, P.D. et al. 2005. Abrupt and gradual extinction among Late Permian land vertebrates in the Karoo Basin, South Africa. Science 307: 709 – 714.

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE I, Lloyd Rossouw, declare that I act as an independent specialist consultant. I do not have or will not have any financial interest in the undertaking of the activity other than remuneration for work as stipulated in the terms of reference. I have no interest in secondary or downstream developments as a result of the authorization of this project and have no conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity.

04 / 06 / 2018

10 Tables & Figures

Table 1. Field rating categories as prescribed by SAHRA. Field Rating Grade Significance Mitigation National Grade 1 - Conservation; Significance (NS) national site nomination Provincial Grade 2 - Conservation; Significance (PS) provincial site nomination Local Significance Grade 3A High significance Conservation; (LS) mitigation not advised Local Significance Grade 3B High significance Mitigation (part of (LS) site should be retained) Generally Protected - High/medium Mitigation before A (GP.A) significance destruction Generally Protected - Medium Recording before B (GP.B) significance destruction Generally Protected - Low significance Destruction C (GP.C)

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

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Appendix D (ii): Ecological Impact Assessment

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Report on the ecological assessment of a proposed agri-park in The Meadows Small Holdings, Kroonstad, Free State Province.

May 2018

Prepared by:

Prepared for: Environmental Management Group P.O. Box 28242 Danhof 9310

1 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

DPR Ecologists and Environmental Services is an independent company and has no financial, personal or other interest in the proposed project, apart from fair remuneration for work performed in the delivery of ecological services. There are no circumstances that compromise the objectivity of the study.

Report Version Final 1.0

Report on the ecological assessment of a proposed agri-park in The Title Meadows Small Holdings, Kroonstad, Free State Province.

Author DP van Rensburg May’18 (Pr.Sci.Nat)

2 Executive Summary

According to Mucina & Rutherford (2006) the area consists of Vaal-Vet Sandy Grassland (Gh 10). This vegetation type is currently listed as being Endangered (EN) under the National List of Threatened Ecosystems (Notice 1477 of 2009) (National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004) (Map 2). It is currently subjected to severe pressure mostly as a result of agricultural crop cultivation. However, the vegetation on the site is considered as transformed from the natural condition according to the List of Threatened terrestrial ecosystems (remaining extent) (SANBI 2011). Furthermore, the site is also listed as a Degraded area under the Free State Province Biodiversity Management Plan (2015) (Map 3). This also affirms that the natural vegetation on the site has been transformed and is no longer considered as representative of the natural vegetation type. Consequently the conservation value of the site cannot be considered as significant.

The proposed agri-park development will take place along the north western border of the town of Kroonstad and within The Meadows Small Holdings (Map 2). The topography has been somewhat altered, most probably by the ploughing activities and longitudinal furrows are present and visible as longitudinal shallow depressions.

The longitudinal plough furrows, slight slope toward the east and the gravel road acting as a flow barrier has led to ponding and in turn causes artificial wetland conditions (Map 1). These wetland conditions can however with relative certainty be considered to be of artificial origin as a result of the surface runoff being obstructed by the gravel road which leads to ponding. This is also clearly visible from historical aerial images (Google Earth 2011-2018) The exception being a small circular depression which may be part of a natural pan but cannot be determined with certainty due to the transformed nature of the site. It is recommended that the drainage and storm water management in this particular area be improved to reduce ponding and that waterlogged areas be avoided and excluded from development as far as possible as these areas will complicate construction and will cause undesirable conditions for livestock during the operational phase.

In conclusion the site is considered to be largely transformed from the natural condition. This is due to the site previously being ploughed. As a result the vegetation layer is of secondary establishment and although consisting of indigenous species is unlikely to be able to attain the species composition and diversity of the natural vegetation. Consequently the site doesn’t contain any protected or rare species and the diversity of species is relatively low. A few artificial wetland areas has formed due to poor storm water management with the exception of a small circular depression which may form part of a small natural pan (Map 1). Irrespective of being artificial or natural these areas should be avoided and excluded from the development.. A large pan is also situated approximately 120 meters to the east of the site and although it is unlikely to be directly affected by the development, runoff may affect it and adequate storm water management including separation of clean and dirty storm water should be implemented.

3 Table of contents

Ecological assessment

Declaration of Independence

Executive Summary

1. Introduction 5 1.1 Background 1.2 The value of biodiversity

2. Scope and limitations 7 2.1 Vegetation 2.2 Fauna 2.3 Limitations

3. Methodology 8 3.1 Desktop study 3.2 Survey 3.3 Criteria used to assess sites 3.4 Biodiversity sensitivity rating (BSR)

4. Ecological overview of the site 11 4.1 Overview of ecology and vegetation types 4.2 Overview of fauna

5. Anticipated impacts 16

6. Site specific results 18

7. Biodiversity sensitivity rating (BSR) interpretation 19

8. Discussion and conclusions 20

9. Recommendations 22

10. References 23

Annexure A: Maps and Site photos 25 Annexure B: Species list 31 Annexure C: Impact methodology 33

4 Ecological assessment

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Natural vegetation is an important component of ecosystems. Some of the vegetation units in a region can be more sensitive than others, usually as a result of a variety of environmental factors and species composition. These units are often associated with water bodies, water transferring bodies or moisture sinks. These systems are always connected to each other through a complex pattern. Degradation of a link in this larger system, e.g. tributary, pan, wetland, usually leads to the degradation of the larger system. Therefore, degradation of such a water related system should be prevented.

Though vegetation may seem to be uniform and low in diversity it may still contain species that are rare and endangered. The occurrence of such a species may render the development unviable. Should such a species be encountered the development should be moved to another location or cease altogether.

South Africa has a large amount of endemic species and in terms of plant diversity ranks third in the world. This has the result that many of the species are rare, highly localised and consequently endangered. It is our duty to protect our diverse natural resources.

South Africa’s water resources have become a major concern in recent times. As a water scarce country, we need to manage our water resources sustainably in order to maintain a viable resource for the community as well as to preserve the biodiversity of the system. Thus, it should be clear that we need to protect our water resources so that we may be able to utilise this renewable resource sustainably. Areas that are regarded as crucial to maintain healthy water resources include wetlands, streams as well as the overall catchment of a river system.

Development around cities and towns are necessary to accommodate an ever-growing population. Areas along the boundaries of cities and towns are usually in a degraded state due to the impact of the large population these areas house. Though this may be the case in most situations there may still be areas that consist of sensitive habitats such as water courses, wetlands or rare vegetation types that need to be conserved. These areas may also contain endangered fauna and flora.

A site visit was conducted on 22 May 2018. A representative sample of the agri-park development was surveyed over the period of several hours. The site survey was conducted during autumn and after sufficient rainfall and is considered to give an adequate representation of the vegetation on the site.

For the above reasons it is necessary to conduct an ecological assessment of an area proposed for development.

The report together with its recommendations and mitigation measures should be used to minimise the impact of the proposed development.

1.2 The value of biodiversity

The diversity of life forms and their interaction with each other and the environment has made Earth a uniquely habitable place for humans. Biodiversity sustains human livelihoods and life itself. Although our dependence on biodiversity has become less tangible and apparent, it remains critically important.

The balancing of atmospheric gases through photosynthesis and carbon sequestration is reliant on biodiversity, while an estimated 40% of the global economy is based on biological products and processes.

Biodiversity is the basis of innumerable environmental services that keep us and the natural environment alive. These services range from the provision of clean water and watershed services to the recycling of nutrients and pollution. These ecosystem services include:

• Soil formation and maintenance of soil fertility. • Primary production through photosynthesis as the supportive foundation for all life. • Provision of food, fuel and fibre. • Provision of shelter and building materials. • Regulation of water flows and the maintenance of water quality. • Regulation and purification of atmospheric gases. • Moderation of climate and weather. • Detoxification and decomposition of wastes. • Pollination of plants, including many crops. • Control of pests and diseases. • Maintenance of genetic resources.

6 2. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

• To evaluate the present state of the vegetation and ecological functioning of the area proposed for the agri-park development. • To identify possible negative impacts that could be caused by the proposed construction of an agri-apark development.

2.1 Vegetation

Aspects of the vegetation that will be assessed include:

• The vegetation types of the region with their relevance to the proposed site. • The overall status of the vegetation on site. • Species composition with the emphasis on dominant-, rare- and endangered species.

The amount of disturbance present on the site assessed according to: • The amount of grazing impacts. • Disturbance caused by human impacts. • Other disturbances.

2.2 Fauna

Aspects of the fauna that will be assessed include:

• A basic survey of the fauna occurring in the region using visual observations of species as well as evidence of their occurrence in the region (burrows, excavations, animal tracks, etc.). • The overall condition of the habitat. • A list of species that may occur in the region (desktop study).

2.3 Limitations

Some geophytic or succulent species may have been overlooked due to a specific flowering time or cryptic nature. Although a comprehensive survey of the site was done it is still likely that several species were overlooked. Some animal species may not have been observed as a result of their nocturnal and/or shy habits.

7 3. METHODOLOGY

3.1 Several literature works were used for additional information.

Vegetation: Red Data List (Raymondo et al. 2009) Vegetation types (Mucina & Rutherford 2006) Field guides used for species identification (Bromilow 1995, 2010, Coates-Palgrave 2002, Fish et al 2015, Gibbs-Russell et al 1990, Manning 2009, Retief & Meyer 2017, Van Oudtshoorn 2004, Van Wyk & Malan 1998, Van Wyk & Van Wyk 1997, Venter & Joubert 1985).

Terrestrial fauna: Field guides for species identification (Smithers 1986a).

3.2 Survey

The site was assessed by means of transects and sample plots.

Noted species include rare and dominant species. The broad vegetation types present on the site were determined. The state of the environment was assessed in terms of condition, grazing impacts, disturbance by humans, erosion and presence of invader and exotic species.

Animal species were also noted as well as the probability of other species occurring on or near the site according to their distribution areas and habitat requirements. The state of the habitat was also assessed.

3.3 Criteria used to assess sites

Several criteria were used to assess the site and determine the overall status of the environment.

Vegetation characteristics Characteristics of the vegetation in its current state. The diversity of species, sensitivity of habitats and importance of the ecology as a whole.

Habitat diversity and species richness: normally a function of locality, habitat diversity and climatic conditions. Scoring: Wide variety of species occupying a variety of niches – 1, Variety of species occupying a single nich – 2, Single species dominance over a large area containing a low diversity of species – 3.

Presence of rare and endangered species: The actual occurrence or potential occurrence of rare or endangered species on a proposed site plays a large role on the feasibility of a development. Depending on the status and provincial conservation policy, presence of a Red Data species can potentially be a fatal flaw. Scoring: Occurrence actual or highly likely – 1, Occurrence possible – 2, Occurrence highly unlikely – 3.

8 Ecological function: All plant communities play a role in the ecosystem. The ecological importance of all areas though, can vary significantly e.g. wetlands, drainage lines, ecotones, etc. Scoring: Ecological function critical for greater system – 1, Ecological function of medium importance – 2, No special ecological function (system will not fail if absent) – 3.

Degree of rarity/conservation value: Scoring: Very rare and/or in pristine condition – 1, Fair to good condition and/or relatively rare – 2, Not rare, degraded and/or poorly conserved – 3.

Vegetation condition The sites are compared to a benchmark site in a good to excellent condition. Vegetation management practises (e.g. grazing regime, fire, management, etc.) can have a marked impact on the condition of the vegetation.

Percentage ground cover: Ground cover is under normal and natural conditions a function of climate and biophysical characteristics. Under poor grazing management, ground cover is one of the first signs of vegetation degradation. Scoring: Good to excellent – 1, Fair – 2, Poor – 3.

Vegetation structure: This is the ratio between tree, shrub, sub-shrubs and grass layers. The ratio could be affected by grazing and browsing by animals. Scoring: All layers still intact and showing specimens of all age classes – 1, Sub-shrubs and/or grass layers highly grazed while tree layer still fairly intact (bush partly opened up) – 2, Mono- layered structure often dominated by a few unpalatable species (presence of barren patches notable) – 3.

Infestation with exotic weeds and invader plants or encroachers: Scoring: No or very slight infestation levels by weeds and invaders – 1, Medium infestation by one or more species – 2, Several weed and invader species present and high occurrence of one or more species – 3.

Degree of grazing/browsing impact: Scoring: No or very slight notable signs of browsing and/or grazing – 1, Some browse lines evident, shrubs shows signs of browsing, grass layer grazed though still intact – 2, Clear browse line on trees, shrubs heavily pruned and grass layer almost absent – 3.

Signs of erosion: The formation of erosion scars can often give an indication of the severity and/or duration of vegetation degradation. Scoring: No or very little signs of soil erosion – 1, Small erosion gullies present and/or evidence of slight sheet erosion – 2, Gully erosion well developed (medium to large dongas) and/or sheet erosion removed the topsoil over large areas – 3.

Faunal characteristics Presence of rare and endangered species: The actual occurrence or potential occurrence of rare or endangered species on a proposed site plays a large role on the feasibility of a development. Depending on the status and provincial conservation policy, presence of a Red Data species or very unique and sensitive habitats can potentially be a fatal flaw. Scoring: Occurrence actual or highly likely – 1, Occurrence possible – 2, Occurrence highly unlikely.

3.4 Biodiversity sensitivity rating (BSR)

The total scores for the criteria above were used to determine the biodiversity sensitivity ranking for the sites. On a scale of 0 – 30, six different classes are described to assess the suitability of the sites to be developed. The different classes are described in the table below:

Table 1: Biodiversity sensitivity ranking BSR BSR general floral description Floral score equating to BSR class Ideal (5) Vegetation is totally transformed or in a 29 – 30 highly degraded state, generally has a low level of species diversity, no species of concern and/or has a high level of invasive plants. The area has lost its inherent ecological function. The area has no conservation value and potential for successful rehabilitation is very low. The site is ideal for the proposed development. Preferred (4) Vegetation is in an advanced state of 26 – 28 degradation, has a low level of species diversity, no species of concern and/or has a high level of invasive plants. The area’s ecological function is seriously hampered, has a very low conservation value and the potential for successful rehabilitation is low. The area is preferred for the proposed development. Acceptable (3) Vegetation is notably degraded, has a 21 – 25 medium level of species diversity although no species of concern are present. Invasive plants are present but are still controllable. The area’s ecological function is still intact but may be hampered by the current levels of degradation. Successful rehabilitation of the area is possible. The conservation value is regarded as low. The area is acceptable for the proposed development. Not preferred (2) The area is in a good condition although 11 – 20 signs of disturbance are present. Species diversity is high and species of concern may be present. The ecological function is intact and very little rehabilitation is needed. The area is of medium conservation importance. The area is not preferred for the proposed development. Sensitive (1) The vegetation is in a pristine or near pristine 0 - 10 condition. Very little signs of disturbance other than those needed for successful management are present. The species diversity is very high with several species of concern known to be present. Ecological functioning is intact and the conservation importance is high. The area is regarded as sensitive and not suitable for the proposed development.

10 4. ECOLOGICAL OVERVIEW OF THE SITE

4.1 Overview of ecology and vegetation types (Mucina & Ruterford 2006)

Refer to the list of species encountered on the site in Appendix B.

The site consists mostly of indigenous vegetation but which has mostly been transformed in terms of species composition from the natural vegetation type. The site was also previously ploughed and the vegetation is therefore of secondary establishment. The site itself is devoid of structures or infrastructure except fence lines and a very small brick building but the bordering areas contain numerous farm buildings including dams, sheds, windrows and other structures associated with agricultural activities. The site is currently being used as grazing for domestic stock.

The proposed agri-park development will take place along the north western border of the town of Kroonstad and within The Meadows Small Holdings (Map 2). The site consists of natural vegetation but which was previously subjected to ploughing and is consequently of secondary establishment and notably degraded. The vegetation structure on the site consists of a grass layer and is devoid of any trees or shrubs. The surrounding homesteads do contain numerous exotic trees.

The topography of the site is relatively uniform and consists of a largely flat area with a very slight slope to the south east. The topography has been somewhat altered, most probably by the ploughing activities and longitudinal furrows are present and visible as longitudinal shallow depressions. The elevation of the site does not notably differ and is indicated as 1428 m. This also indicates the flat nature of the site. However, the slight slope, longitudinal furrows and poor drainage of the gravel road caused ponding of runoff in the south western portion of the site.

A large pan is situated approximately 120 meters to the east of the site. A few homesteads, small holdings and gravel road separate the site from the pan and consequently it is considered unlikely that the pan will be directly affected by the development although storm water runoff from the site may eventually flow into this pan. It is therefore important that adequate storm water management measures be implemented on the site and that clean and dirty storm water be kept separate.

In addition to the above, the longitudinal plough furrows, slight slope toward the east and the gravel road acting as a flow barrier has led to ponding and in turn causes artificial wetland conditions (Map 1). These areas clearly contains wetland conditions although of an artificial origin. Vegetation in these areas are dominated by several sedges and hygrophilous grasses.

11 These include The hygrophilous grasses, Agrostis lachnantha and Paspalum distichum, Bulrush, Typha capensis, numerous sedges including Cyperus congestus, C. longus, C. eragrostis, C. difformis, Schoenoplectus sp., rushes, Juncus exertus and the aquatic fern, Marsilea sp. A few exotic weeds including Persicaria lapthifolia and Gomphrena celosioides are also present. The majority of these are listed as obligate wetland species (DWAF 2008). Obligate wetland species are confined to wetlands and are only able to occur in wetlands. They are therefore reliable indicators of wetland conditions. These wetland conditions can however with relative certainty be considered to be of artificial origin as a result of the surface runoff being obstructed by the gravel road which leads to ponding. This is also clearly visible from historical aerial images (Google Earth 2011-2018) The exception being a small circular depression which may be part of a natural pan but cannot be determined with certainty due to the transformed nature of the site. It is recommended that the drainage and storm water management in this particular area be improved to reduce ponding and that waterlogged areas be avoided and excluded from development as far as possible as these areas will complicate construction and will cause undesirable conditions for livestock during the operational phase.

Figure 1: Aerial view of the proposed site (Google Earth 2011). No visible wetland conditions are present although a small circular feature may represent a small pan area (yellow). Plough furrows are clearly visible. Note also the surrounding homestead and agricultural activities.

Figure 2: Aerial view of the proposed site (Google Earth 2016). Areas of visible ponding has started forming (yellow), the small circular area is also still clearly visible.

Figure 3: Aerial view of the proposed site (Google Earth 2017). Areas of visible ponding has now become quite prominent (yellow), the small circular area is also still clearly visible.

The area consists of aeolian and colluvial sand overlying sandstone, mudstone and shale of the Karoo Supergroup (Mucina & Ruterford 2006).

The area has a mean average temperature of 16.6°C, with a maximum of 28.7°C in January and temperatures below zero common in winter. Summer rainfall occurs mostly as thunderstorms with an average annual rainfall of 604 mm.

As mentioned previously the vegetation structure on the site is dominated by a grass layer. It is however dominated to a large extent by a single species, namely Eragrostis lehmanniana. This is also an indicator of disturbance and often dominates on old ploughed fields such as is the

13 case on the site. Other species which are also abundant include Aristida congesta, Pogonarthria squarrosa, Melinis repens, Trichoneura grandiglumis, Eragrotsi gummiflua and Cynodon dactylon. All of these are also indicators of a disturbed vegetation layer. Other grasses which are present but rare on the site include Hyparrhenia hirta, Eragrostis superba, Digitaria eriantha and Themeda triandra. These are climax grasses and considered remnants of the natural vegetation type. Within this grass layer a prominent dwarf karroid shrub layer is also present. This is also indicative of a degraded grass layer. These species include Nolletia ciliaris, Selago densiflora, and Chrysocoma ciliata. A prominent herb component is also present in this grass layer and represented by a variety of species (Appendix B). Indigenous weeds and pioneer species are common and further substantiate the degraded condition of the site. These include Gomphocarpus fruticosus, Stoebe vulgaris, Berkheya onopordifolia, Solanum incanum, Salvia verbenaca, Lactuca inermis and Nidorella resedifolia. Coupled with these are also several exotic weeds namely Conyza bonariensis, Tagetes minuta, Verbena tenuisecta, V. bonariensis and Gomphrena celosioides. The shrub, Asparagus larcinus, is also present in the grassland but scattered and not prominent. A geophyte, Dipcadi viride, is also scattered on the site and often abundant in degraded situations. The exotic tree, Gleditsia triacanthos, is prominent around the surrounding homesteads and road reserves.

Observations on the site do indicate previous ploughing of the site and is visible as shallow longitudinal furrows. This is however not very distinct and much more clearly visible from aerial imagery (Google Earth 2011-2018) (Figure 1 - 3). As a result the natural vegetation layer was cleared and the soil profile disturbed. Consequently the current vegetation layer is of secondary establishment and it is unlikely that it would be able to attain the species diversity of remaining natural areas. In addition, rare and endangered species which are often habitat specific and require pristine conditions do not occur on the site and is unlikely to ever establish here.

In conclusion the site is considered to be largely transformed from the natural condition. This is due to the site previously being ploughed. As a result the vegetation layer is of secondary establishment and although consisting of indigenous species is unlikely to be able to attain the species composition and diversity of the natural vegetation. Consequently the site doesn’t contain any protected or rare species and the diversity of species is relatively low. A few artificial wetland areas has formed due to poor storm water management with the exception of a small circular depression which may form part of a small natural pan (Map 1). Irrespective of being artificial or natural these areas should be avoided and excluded from the development as they will complicate construction and are undesirable conditions for keeping livestock. A large pan is also situated approximately 120 meters to the east of the site and although it is unlikely to be directly affected by the development, runoff may affect it and adequate storm water management including separation of clean and dirty storm water should be implemented.

4.2 Overview of terrestrial fauna (actual & possible)

Tracks and signs of mammals could not be identified on the site although it is likely that some mammals would still occur here. However, due to the transformed nature of the site the mammal population will be small and consisting of generalist species. This is mostly as a result of previous ploughing as well as current degraded condition and the proximity of human dwellings and associated activities.

The region is well known for colonies of the threatened Sungazer Lizzard (Smaug giganteus) which is considered to be a Vulnerable (VU) species largely due to collecting for the illegal pet trade and traditional medicine as well as the transformation of available habitat. The site was

14 therefore also purposefully surveyed for the presence of this species. No specimens or burrows of this species could be identified and due to the degraded condition of the site and proximity of urban areas it is considered highly unlikely that it would occur on the site.

The proposed development will transform the majority of the vegetation on the site and thus also the available habitat to fauna. However, the current habitat is already degraded and mammal population already notably diminished and therefore this cannot be considered to be a high impact.

It is also considered likely that several mammal species were overlooked during the survey but owing to the degraded condition of the site and proximity to urban areas it is considered highly unlikely that any rare or endangered species would occur on the site.

In order to ensure no direct impact on the mammals on the site the hunting, capturing or trapping of mammals on the site should be strictly prohibited during construction as well as during operation of the agri-park.

List of some Red Data terrestrial mammals that could occur in the region:

South African Hedgehog Atelerix frontalis Aardwolf Proteles cristatus African Wild Cat Felis lybica Small-Spotted Cat Felis nigripes Bat-Eared Fox Otocyon megalotis Striped Weasel Poecilogale albinucha

It is considered unlikely that any of these species would occur on the site due to the proximity of urban developments and degraded condition of the site.

15 5. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS

Anticipated impacts that the development will have is primarily concerned with the loss of habitat and species diversity.

The site was previously ploughed and consequently the vegetation on the site is of secondary establishment and largely transformed from the natural condition. Consequently the species diversity is also relatively low. Although the natural vegetation type in the area, Vaal-Vet Sandy Grassland, is of high conservation value it has been completely transformed on the site and is therefore no longer relevant (Map 2). As a result the loss of habitat and species diversity can therefore not be considered as a high impact.

No protected, Red Listed or rare species could be identified on the site and due to the degraded and transformed nature it is unlikely that such species would occur. This impact on these species would therefore be negligible.

A few areas with visible ponding and forming artificial wetland conditions occur on and around the site. A large pan is also situated approximately 120 meters to the east of the site (Map 1). The artificial wetland areas are not considered to have a high conservation value and the impact of the development on these areas cannot be considered as high. The large pan area is also unlikely to be directly affected by the development. As long as adequate storm water management systems are implemented the impact of runoff on these areas should also remain low.

Disturbance caused by the proposed development may cause susceptible conditions for the establishment of exotic weeds. This can be easily managed by simply implementing an exotic weed monitoring and eradication programme which can be initiated during construction and incorporated into the management of the facility during operation.

The development will primarily entail a loss of habitat for fauna which will decrease the population size. This is not anticipated to exceed a low impact as the mammal population on the site is already heavily diminished and degraded.

The impact significance has been determined and it is clear that the impacts before mitigation will mostly be low to moderate. With adequate mitigation these can be decreased to mostly low.

Please refer to Appendix E for the impact methodology.

16 Significance of the impact: Impact Severity Duration Extent Consequence Probability Frequency Likelihood Significance Before Mitigation Loss of 2 5 2 3 3 3 3 9 vegetation type and clearing of vegetation Loss of 1 5 1 2.3 1 1 1 2.3 protected species Impact on 3 4 2 3 4 3 3.5 10.5 wetlands Infestation 3 4 2 3 5 3 4 12 with weeds and invaders Impact on 2 5 2 3 3 3 3 9 Terrestrial fauna After Mitigation Loss of 2 5 2 3 3 3 3 9 vegetation type and clearing of vegetation Loss of 1 5 1 2.3 1 1 1 2.3 protected species Impact on 2 4 2 2.6 3 3 3 7.8 wetlands Infestation 3 2 1 2 3 2 2.5 5 with weeds and invaders Impact on 2 5 2 3 3 3 3 9 Terrestrial fauna

17 6. SITE SPECIFIC RESULTS

Habitat diversity and species richness: The site has been previously ploughed and consequently the vegetation is of secondary establishment, it is therefore largely transformed and consequently the habitat and species diversity is relatively low.

Presence of rare and endangered species: No protected, Red Listed or rare species could be identified on the site and due to the degraded and transformed nature it is unlikely that such species would occur.

Ecological function: The ecological function of the site has been transformed to a large degree. The site functions as habitat for fauna and sustains a specific vegetation type, i.e. Vaal-Vet Sandy Grassland (Map 2). However, due to the transformation of the site by ploughing the vegetation type has also been transformed and the site is no longer able to sustain it. The habitat has also been altered as well and the proximity of human dwellings further modifies this function. Furthermore, the function of the site is not paramount to the continued functioning of the surrounding natural areas. In other words, development of the site should not impair the functioning of the surrounding area to a large extent. This is mostly as a result of the isolation of the site from other natural areas and the transformation of the area by the surrounding small holdings.

Degree of rarity/conservation value: According to Mucina & Rutherford (2006) the area consists of Vaal-Vet Sandy Grassland (Gh 10). This vegetation type is currently listed as being Endangered (EN) under the National List of Threatened Ecosystems (Notice 1477 of 2009) (National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004) (Map 2). It is currently subjected to severe pressure mostly as a result of agricultural crop cultivation. However, the vegetation on the site is considered as transformed from the natural condition according to the List of Threatened terrestrial ecosystems (remaining extent) (SANBI 2011). Furthermore, the site is also listed as a Degraded area under the Free State Province Biodiversity Management Plan (2015) (Map 3). This also affirms that the natural vegetation on the site has been transformed and is no longer considered as representative of the natural vegetation type. Consequently the conservation value of the site cannot be considered as significant.

Percentage ground cover: The percentage vegetation cover is moderate. The grass layer is well-developed although bare patches are present although in the minority.

Vegetation structure: The vegetation structure is still natural to some degree although the species composition is not representative of the natural condition. The presence of dwarf shrubs and weeds alter the structure to some extent.

Infestation with exotic weeds and invader plants: Several exotic weeds occur on the site but do not dominate in any portions. It is therefore still possible to eradicate these.

18 Degree of grazing/browsing impact: Grazing by domestic stock is high in most areas of the site and associated with trampling and alteration of the species composition.

Signs of erosion: Due to the relatively flat topography no prominent erosion is present.

Terrestrial animals: Tracks and signs of mammals could not be identified on the site although it is likely that some mammals would still occur here. However, due to the transformed nature of the site the mammal population will be small and consisting of generalist species. This is mostly as a result of previous ploughing as well as current degraded condition and the proximity of human dwellings and associated activities. It is also considered likely that several mammal species were overlooked during the survey but owing to the degraded condition of the site and proximity to urban areas it is considered highly unlikely that any rare or endangered species would occur on the site.

Table 2: Biodiversity Sensitivity Rating for the proposed agri-park development. Low (3) Medium (2) High (1) Vegetation characteristics Habitat diversity & Species richness 3 Presence of rare and endangered species 3 Ecological function 3 Uniqueness/conservation value 3

Vegetation condition Percentage ground cover 2 Vegetation structure 2 Infestation with exotic weeds and invader plants or 2 encroachers Degree of grazing/browsing impact 3 Signs of erosion 1

Terrestrial animal characteristics Presence of rare and endangered species 3 Sub total 18 6 1 Total 25

7. BIODIVERSITY SENSITIVITY RATING (BSR) INTERPRETATION

Table 3: Interpretation of Biodiversity Sensitivity Rating. Site Score Site Preference Rating Value Agri-park development 24 Acceptable 3

19 8. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The site proposed for the agri-park development has been rated as being acceptable for this development.

The site consists mostly of indigenous vegetation but which has mostly been transformed in terms of species composition from the natural vegetation type. The site was also previously ploughed and the vegetation is therefore of secondary establishment. The site itself is devoid of structures or infrastructure except fence lines but the bordering areas contain numerous farm buildings including dams, sheds, windrows and other structures associated with agricultural activities. The site is currently being used as grazing for domestic stock.

The longitudinal plough furrows, slight slope toward the east and the gravel road acting as a flow barrier has led to ponding and in turn causes artificial wetland conditions (Map 1). These areas clearly contains wetland conditions although of an artificial origin. Vegetation in these areas are dominated by several sedges and hygrophilous grasses. The majority of these are listed as obligate wetland species (DWAF 2008). These wetland conditions can however with relative certainty be considered to be of artificial origin as a result of the surface runoff being obstructed by the gravel road which leads to ponding. This is also clearly visible from historical aerial images (Google Earth 2011-2018) The exception being a small circular depression which may be part of a natural pan but cannot be determined with certainty due to the transformed nature of the site. It is recommended that the drainage and storm water management in this particular area be improved to reduce ponding and that waterlogged areas be avoided and excluded from development as far as possible as these areas will complicate construction and will cause undesirable conditions for livestock during the operational phase.

20 establishment and it is unlikely that it would be able to attain the species diversity of remaining natural areas. In addition, rare and endangered species which are often habitat specific and require pristine conditions do not occur on the site and is unlikely to ever establish here.

In conclusion the site is considered to be largely transformed from the natural condition. This is due to the site previously being ploughed. As a result the vegetation layer is of secondary establishment and although consisting of indigenous species is unlikely to be able to attain the species composition and diversity of the natural vegetation. Consequently the site doesn’t contain any protected or rare species and the diversity of species is relatively low. A few artificial wetland areas has formed due to poor storm water management with the exception of a small circular depression which may form part of a small natural pan (Map 1). Irrespective of being artificial or natural these areas should be avoided and excluded from the development as they will complicate construction and are undesirable conditions for keeping livestock. A large pan is also situated approximately 120 meters to the east of the site and although it is unlikely to be directly affected by the development, runoff may affect it and adequate storm water management including separation of clean and dirty storm water should be implemented.

The impact significance has been determined and it is clear that the impacts before mitigation will mostly be low to moderate. With adequate mitigation these can be decreased to mostly low.

21 9. RECOMMENDATIONS

• The hunting, capturing and trapping of fauna should be prevented by making this a punishable offense during the construction phase and operation of the development.

• After construction has ceased all construction materials should be removed from the area.

• Adequate monitoring of weed establishment and their continued eradication must be maintained.

• Areas of artificial wetland and waterlogged conditions should be avoided and excluded from development as far as possible. The storm water management on the site should also be designed to prevent ponding on the site and alleviate these problematic areas.

• The site should be regularly inspected for erosion and this remedied where required. Comprehensive storm water management measures should be implemented to ensure that clean and dirty storm water is kept separate. This is especially relevant where runoff from livestock facilities with high nutrient values may affect the surface runoff or groundwater.

• Monitoring of construction including weed establishment and erosion should take place and should also specifically include any impacts or alterations to the surrounding depression wetlands.

• Mitigation such as lining and compaction of the livestock facilities to prevent leaching of pollutants should be considered.

22 10. REFERENCES

Bromilow, C. 1995. Problem Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications CC, Cape Town.

Bromilow, C. 2010. Problem plants and alien weeds of South Africa. Briza Publications CC, Cape Town.

Coates-Palgrave, M. 2002. Keith Coates-Palgrave Trees of Southern Africa, edn 3, imp. 4. Random House Struik (Pty.) Ltd, Cape Town.

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (ACT No. 43 OF 1983) Department of Agriculture.

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. 2005. A practical field procedure for identification and delineation of wetlands and riparian areas. Edition 1. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Pretoria.

DWAF. 2008. Updated manual for the identification and delineation of wetlands and riparian areas, prepared by M.Rountree, A.L. Batchelor, J. MacKenzie and D. Hoare. Stream Flow Reduction Activities, Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Pretoria, South Africa.

Fish, L., Mashau, A.C., Moeaha, M.J. & Nembudani, M.T. 2015. Identification guide to the southern African grasses. An identification manual with keys, descriptions and distributions. Strelitzia 36. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

Government of South Africa. 2008. National Protected Area Expansion Strategy for South Africa 2008: Priorities for expanding the protected area network for ecological sustainability and climate change adaptation. Government of South Africa, Pretoria.

Germishuizen, G. & Meyer, N.L. (eds) 2003. Plants of Southern Africa: an annotated checklist. Strelitzia 14. National Botanical Institute, Pretoria.

Gibbs Russell, G.E., Watson, L., Koekemoer, M., Smook, L., Barker, N.P., Anderson, H.M. & Dallwitz, M.J. 1990. Grasses of Southern Africa. Memoirs of the Botanical Survey of South Africa No. 58. Botanical Research Institute, South Africa.

Google Earth Pro V 7.3.1.4507. 2018. Kroonstad, South Africa. S 27.615530°, E 27.207334°. Eye alt. 2.08 km. Digital Globe 2018. http://www.earth.google.com (May 2018).

Manning, J. 2009. Field Guide to Wild Flowers. Struik Nature, Cape Town.

Marnewecke, G. & Kotze, D. 1999. Appendix W6: Guidelines for delineation of wetland boundary and wetland zones. In: MacKay (Ed.), H. Resource directed measures for protection of water resources: wetland ecosystems. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Pretoria.

Mucina, L. & Rutherford, M.C. (eds.) 2006. The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

23 National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10/2004): National list of ecosystems that are threatened and in need of protection. Government Notice 1002 of 2011, Department of Environmental Affairs.

National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998). Republic of South Africa.

Nel, J.L., Murray, K.M., Maherry, A.M., Petersen, C.P., Roux, D.J., Driver, A., Hill, L., Van Deventer, H., Funke, N., Swartz, E.R., Smith-Adao, L.B., Mbona, N., Downsborough, L. and Nienaber, S. (2011). Technical Report for the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas project. WRC Report No. K5/1801.

Raymondo, D. Van 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. Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

Retief, E. & Meyer, N.L. 2017. Plants of the Free State: Inventory and identification guide. Strelitzia 38. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2011. List of threatened ecosystems.

Smithers, R.H.N. 1986a. Land Mammals of Southern Africa. Macmillan, Johannesburg.

Smithers, R.H.N. 1986b. South African Red Data Book - Terrestrial Mammals. South African National Scientific Programmes Report No. 125. A report for the Committee for Nature Conservation Research National Programme for Ecosystem Research.

Van Oudtshoorn, F. 2004. Gids tot Grasse van Suider-Afrika. Briza Publications, Pretoria.

Van Wyk, B. & Malan, S. 1998. Field guide to the wild flowers of the Highveld. Struik Publishers, Cape Town.

Van Wyk, B. & Van Wyk, P. 1997. Field guide to trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape Town.

Venter, H.J.T. & Joubert, A.M. 1985. Climbers, trees and shrubs of the Orange Free State. P.J. de Villiers Publishers, Bloemfontein.

24 Annexure A: Maps and Site photos

25 26 27 28

Figure 1: General panorama of the development site. Overgrazing by domestic stock is evident. Note surrounding small holding homesteads are clearly visible.

Figure 2: Panorama of the site with notably low percentage vegetation cover.

Figure 3: Panorama of artificial wetland areas adjacent to the site (red).

Figure 4: A closer few of one of the artificial wetland areas (red).

Figure 5: Close-up of one of these artificial wetland areas.

Figure 6: Another panorama of the site.

Figure 7: View of a few of the surrounding homesteads and small holdings. Note also associated exotic trees.

Figure 8: View of the larger pan (red) to the south east of the site.

30 Appendix B: Species list

Species indicated with an * are exotic.

Protected species are coloured orange and Red Listed species red.

Species Growth form *Conyza bonariensis Herb *Gleditsia triacanthos Tree *Gomphrena celosioides Herb *Persicaris lapathifolia Herb *Tagetes minuta Herb *Verbena tenuisecta Herb Aristida congesta Grass Asparagus larcinus Shrub Berkheya onopordifolia Herb Chrysocoma ciliata Dwarf shrub Crassula lanceolata Succulent Cynodon dactylon Grass Cyperus congestus Sedge Cyperus difformis Sedge Cyperus eragrostis Sedge Cyperus longus Sedge Dicoma anomala Herb Digitaria eriantha Grass Dipcadi viride Geophyte Eragrostis lehmanniana Grass Eragrostis superba Grass Eragrotsi gummiflua Grass Felicia muricata Dwarf shrub Gomphocarpus fruticosus Shrub Helichrysum nudifolium Herb Hyparrhenia hirta Grass Juncus exertus Rush Lactuca inermis Herb Marsilea sp. Fern Melinis repens Grass Nidorella resedifolia Herb Nolletia ciliaris Dwarf shrub Paspalum distichum Grass Pentzia incana Dwarf shrub Pogonarthria squarrosa Grass Pollichia campestris Dwarf shrub Salvia verbenaca Herb Schoenoplectus sp. Sedge Searsia lancea Tree Selago densiflora Dwarf shrub

31 Solanum incanum Herb Stoebe vulgaris Dwarf shrub Themeda triandra Grass Trichoneur grandiglumis Grass Typha capensis Bulrush

32 Appendix C: Impact methodology

The environmental significance assessment methodology is based on the following determination: Environmental Significance = Overall Consequence x Overall Likelihood

Determination of Consequence Consequence analysis is a mixture of quantitative and qualitative information and the outcome can be positive or negative. Several factors can be used to determine consequence. For the purpose of determining the environmental significance in terms of consequence, the following factors were chosen: Severity/Intensity, Duration and Extent/Spatial Scale. Each factor is assigned a rating of 1 to 5, as described below and in tables 6, 7, 9 and 10.

Determination of Severity Severity relates to the nature of the event, aspect or impact to the environment and describes how severe the aspects impact on the biophysical and socio-economic environment. Table 7 will be used to obtain an overall rating for severity, taking into consideration the various criteria.

Table 7: Rating of severity Type of Rating criteria 1 2 3 4 5 Quantitative 0-20% 21-40% 41-60% 61-80% 81-100% Small / Disastrous Insignificant / Significant / Great / Very Qualitative Potentially Extremely Non-harmful Harmful harmful harmful harmful Slightly Totally Social/ Intolerable/ Unacceptable Acceptable / tolerable / unacceptable / Community Sporadic / Widespread I&AP satisfied Possible Possible legal response complaints complaints objections action Very low cost Substantial to mitigate/ cost to Prohibitive cost High potential mitigate / to mitigate / to mitigate Potential to Low cost to High cost to Little or no Irreversibility impacts to mitigate mitigate mitigate mechanism to level of impacts / mitigate impact insignificance / Potential to Irreversible Easily reverse reversible impact Biophysical (Air quality, Moderate Significant Very water Insignificant Disastrous change / change / significant quantity and change / change / deterioration deterioration change / quality, waste deterioration deterioration or or or deterioration production, or disturbance disturbance disturbance disturbance or disturbance fauna and flora)

33 Determination of Duration Duration refers to the amount of time that the environment will be affected by the event, risk or impact, if no intervention e.g. remedial action takes place.

Table 8: Rating of Duration Rating Description 1: Low Almost never / almost impossible 2: Low-Medium Very seldom / highly unlikely 3: Medium Infrequent / unlikely / seldom 4: Medium-High Often / regularly / likely / possible 5: High Daily / highly likely / definitely

Determination of Extent/Spatial Scale Extent refer to the spatial influence of an impact be local (extending only as far as the activity, or will be limited to the site and its immediate surroundings), regional (will have an impact on the region), national (will have an impact on a national scale) or international (impact across international borders).

Table 9: Rating of Extent / Spatial Scale Rating Description 1: Low Immediate, fully contained area 2: Low-Medium Surrounding area 3: Medium Within Business Unit area of responsibility 4: Medium-High Within Mining Boundary area 5: High Regional, National, International

Determination of Overall Consequence Overall consequence is determined by adding the factors determined above and summarised below, and then dividing the sum by 4.

Table 10: Example of calculating Overall Consequence Consequence Rating Severity Example 4 Duration Example 2 Extent Example 4 SUBTOTAL 10 TOTAL CONSEQUENCE:(Subtotal divided by 4) 3.3

Likelihood The determination of likelihood is a combination of Frequency and Probability. Each factor is assigned a rating of 1 to 5, as described below and in Table 11 and Table 12.

Determination of Frequency Frequency refers to how often the specific activity, related to the event, aspect or impact, is undertaken.

34 Table 11: Rating of frequency Rating Description 1: Low Once a year or once/more during operation/LOM 2: Low-Medium Once/more in 6 Months 3: Medium Once/more a Month 4: Medium-High Once/more a Week 5: High Daily

Determination of Probability Probability refers to how often the activity/even or aspect has an impact on the environment.

Table 12: Rating of probability Rating Description 1: Low Almost never / almost impossible 2: Low-Medium Very seldom / highly unlikely 3: Medium Infrequent / unlikely / seldom 4: Medium-High Often / regularly / likely / possible 5: High Daily / highly likely / definitely

Overall Likelihood Overall likelihood is calculated by adding the factors determined above and summarised below, and then dividing the sum by 2.

Table 13: Example of calculating the overall likelihood Consequence Rating Frequency Example 4 Probability Example 2 SUBTOTAL 6 TOTAL LIKELIHOOD (Subtotal divided by 2) 3

Determination of Overall Environmental Significance The multiplication of overall consequence with overall likelihood will provide the environmental significance, which is a number that will then fall into a range of LOW, LOW-MEDIUM, MEDIUM, MEDIUM, MEDIUM-HIGH or HIGH, as shown in the table below.

Table 14: Determination of overall environmental significance Significance or Risk Low- Moderate- Low Moderate High Moderate High Overall Consequence X 1 - 4.9 5 - 9.9 10 - 14.9 15 – 19.9 20 - 25 Overall Likelihood

Qualitative description or magnitude of Environmental Significance This description is qualitative and is an indication of the nature or magnitude of the Environmental Significance. It also guides the prioritisations and decision making process associated with this event, aspect or impact.

35 Table 15: Description of the environmental significance and the related action required. Significance Low- Moderate- Low Moderate High Moderate High Impact Impact is of Impact is of Impact is real, Impact is real Impact is of the Magnitude very low order low order and and potentially and highest order and therefore therefore substantial in substantial in possible. likely to have likely to have relation to relation to Unacceptable. very little real little real other impacts. other impacts. Fatal flaw. effect. effect. Can pose a Pose a risk to Acceptable. Acceptable. risk to the the company. company Unacceptable Action Maintain Maintain Implement Improve Implement Required current current monitoring. management significant management management Investigate measures to mitigation measures. measures. mitigation reduce risk. measures or Where Implement measures and implement possible monitoring improve alternatives. improve. and evaluate management to determine measures to potential reduce risk, increase in where risk. possible. Where possible improve

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix D (iii): Agricultural Potential

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

74 D II.s OF THE SPECIAII$T AND DECLARATION OF INTERESI'

Project fitle:

AGRICUTURAT POTENNAL . FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UN|T (FPSU} IROONSTAD, MOQIIAKA tOCAt MUlClPAtlTYp FEILE DABI DISTRICT MUNICIPAUTY' ON THE MIADOWS SMAtt FIOTDINGS"

Specialist details:

Specialist Hanco Hugo PostalMdress P.O. Box 117 Petrusburg9932 Teleohone Cell o732167592 E-mail ail.com

General Declaration

I act as an independent specialist in this application;

I will perform the work relating to the itpplication in an objective marrner, even if thris result in views and findings that is not favouraSle to tlre applican!

I declare that there are no circufiistancres that may compromise rny objectivity in pertforming such work;

I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application;

Signature of the specialist AGRICUTTJRAL POTENTTAL SURVEY.- FARMER PRODUCilON SUPPORT UNilT (FPSU) KROONSTAD MOQHAKA TOCAL MUICIPALITY, FEIIII.E DABIDISTRICT MUNICIPAI.ITY, ON THE IVIEADOWS HOLDINGS.

1.. TERMS OF REFERENICE

To undertake an EIA levelsoil,land use,land capacityand agpicultur:rl pot,entialsurveyfor the proposed FSPLI at Kroonstard, Moqhaka Local Municipality and Fezile Dabi District Municipality, on the Meadows Small Holdings.

2, INTRODUCTION

The Department of Rural development and Land Refrcrm (DttDLR) plern to develop a FSF,U in the Kroonstad area. Such a derrelopment will include basic inrfrastructure developmentfor Security offices, Rerception and admin offices, Retail ;rnd tourism facility, Feed store / pack house, Logistics centre with tr:rining workshop, animal handling facilities / training holding 200 cattle feedlot.

For this reason DRDLR has initiiated the process of licensing of a site that fall within the jurisdiction of Kroonstad to enr;ure they meet the national criteria. The proposed FSPU be in the order of Ii.2 ha.

purposes purposes proposed For the of the EIA ars 'ruell as for of rezonirrg the site, which is currently zoned as agricultural land, one of the specialist studies to bre conducted is an agricu ltural potential study.

2.1 Study aims and objectivers.

The purpose of ther study is to determine the current agriculllural potential of the proposed site as well as that the impaclt r:f the FSPU will be on the soils, land use, land capability and agricultural potential.

The study has the 1'ollowing ob,iectives:

a Soils form (SA taxcrnomic system) and soil depth for the iarea; a Soil po,tential linkled to current land use and othrer potential uses and options; a Discussion on thel i:lgricultural potential in terms of the srcils, infrastructure available, water airailability and climate; Discussion of implarcts as result of the prclposed rdevelopment. 2.2 Agricultural Potential Background.

The assessment of the agricultural potential rests primirrily on the identification of that are suited to crop production as well as the descri;rtion of the naltural veld to determine. For soils to qualify as high potential soils th,ey must have tlhe following properties:

a Deep profile (ln access of 600 mm) for adequate root development; a Adequate clay content for the storing of sufficir:nt water to enable crops to withstand short dry spells; a Suitable structure to allow efficient root development; a Sufficient clay and organic matter to ensure retention and suprply of plant nutrients; o Limited rock quantities. To large a rock component will limit tiilling options water store capacity of the soils.

Agricultural potential is however not limited to soils properties alone and the characteristics of the climate must also be considered to finally determine the potential of the site.

As most of the crops to be produced on this site will be rain fed thre characteristi the rainfall will be extremely important. This includes the total potential rainfall well as the distribution of the rainfall. Other important climatic fa,ctors are the earliest entry and latest exit date of frost and temperatures inclucling the mini and maximum temperatures.

In addition to crop production the areas not suitable for crop procluction are normally utilised as grazing for animals. The natural grazing chararcteristics will determine the carrying capacity of the grazing. This; in combination with the o clirnatic conditions mentioned will determine the suitable animals;to farm with.

2.3 Site Boundary

The proposed site is approximately 5km to the West of Kroonstad on llhe Meadows smarllholdings and easy accessible from the R76 road.

The map below indicates the position of the proposed :;ite. 3.0 soil, CL|MATE, |AND CAPABIL|TY, LAND USE AND AGRTCUTURAL POTENT|AL.

3.1 Method of survey

The soil, land capability, land use and agricultural potf ntial surve\rs were cond in three phases:

3.1.1 Phase 1: Land Type Data:

The land type data was obtained from the QGIS modEl which is bersically the information for the Institute for Soil Climate and Wat{r (ISCW).

3.1.2 Aerial Photograph interpretation and land use mapping.

Google earth images were interpreted to identify and delineate different land on the site.

3.1.3 Site visit and soil survey.

A site visit to the site to confirm the soils as indicated on the land type i as well as the evaluation of the natural grazing in terrf s of condition and potenti 3.2 Survey Results

3.2.L Phase L: Land Type Data

The site are included in the Bd21 (3) land type. Soils typically expercted in this land type are Soetmelk Av36(67%), RietvleiWeL,Z, Sibasa Wel3 (18%), Bainsvlei Bv36, Shorrocks Hu36 (1,2%) and Kanonkop Gs13 (3%). The slopes will br: t-3%.Ihe topsoil can be expected to be Sand Clay Loam to Sand Clay. lt also inclicates that the soil:; will be wet as the restrictive layer will be sonne form of high moist condition. Typical soil depth to be expected at the specific location is 601mm-900mm with a topsoil clay content of 16-25% with somewhat impeded drainage

3.2.2 Phase 2: Aerial Photograph interpretation and land use mappingi.

It is clear on the aerial images that most of the site was cultivated previously. lt also indicated that it a terrain type 3. Almost the total surrounding area is cultivated and little additional information could be obtained

3.2.3 Phase 3: Site visit and soil and vegetation sunrey.

During the site visit it was confirmed that the area identified for tlre FPSU as indicated in the land type description. Several profile holes were tried to be drilled. The soil however was extremely dry and holc's were dug. About 1li0m from the southern corner alongside the south western border an area of about 20% of the site were identified where rocks was on the surface and when investigated the profile for the first 250 mm have low percentages of rock in the profile. However at 250 mm the rock content increases dramatically to such an extent that it becomes more than 50% of the profile. The rocks are not a limiting layer by itself as root development could have been detected deeper than the 250mm.(See photos 1 and 2) lt is however impractical to cultivate that area. Addition to this, clear indications of sporadic moist conditions were found on the rock in terms of crrlouring. On the North western part alongside the boundary of the site a deep hole were found and clear signs were found of moist conditions in the form of plintite cln the heap of soil indicate the relative periodic wet conditions on this land. The effective depth of the soils will be in agreement of the Land Type information and will vary from 600mrn to 900mm. Accept for the challenge with the rock content in no instance could soils shallower that 600mm be found. Also see photo three which is typical of the prol'ile of the topsoil. Photol: showing rocks of profile Photo 2 showing increases rocks

Photo 3 showing typical topsoil Photo 4: Showinlg the mowing of the g,rass Photo 5: showing grass coverage

In terms of the grazing it must be taken into account that there are currently no livestock grazing on this land. This was confirmed by the lessee of the first small holding (Mr Meshack Sethole) which confirrned that he never utilised this land his business is currently restricted to chicken and pig production on the rem portion of the farm. For the remainder of the site he indicated that the neigh utilise the property as a guesthouse and also never utilised the portion iden but from time to time cut the grass to keep it tidy. See photograph 4. No traces of grazing by animals could have been found.

The composition of the veld is dominantly grasses (99e/ol and the dominant grass species is Eragrostis lerhmaniana. Other grasses identified are Themeda Triandr Cymbopogon pospisclrili, Heteropogon contortus, Aristida transvalensis and congesta. The shrubs identified are unimportant will currently make no contribu to the grazing value ofthe veld. See photo 5 to indicate the coverage ofthe gr 3.2.4 Climatic r information

Table L : Average longterm rainfa | | distribution

MONTH AVERAGE RAINFALL n m Ja 81-100 February 61-80 March 61-80 April 4L-60 May 21,-40 June <20 July <20 August <20 September <20 October 61-80 November 61-80 December 61-80 Total 551-600

Table 2: Minimum, Mlaximum and average temperature distribution

MONTH AVERAGE MINIMUM MAXIMUM January 22 16 30 February 22 1.6 32 March 20 t4 28 April 18 10 24 tVXay 1,4 6 22 June 10 2 20 July 10 2 20 Angust t2 4 22 September 18 8 24 October 20 12 26 November 20 t4 28 December 23 t6 30

Table 3: Entry and exit dates for frost

Average entry dates for frost lL- 10 Mav Average exit dates for frost :L-1 0 September AGRICU LTURAL POTENTIAL

4.L Crop production

The potential to grow crops successfully is medium to high depending on the crop choice. The master plan for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development indicate that the following crops as indicated in Table 4 can br: pr

Table 4 Potential crops to be produced

CROP SUITABITITY CLASS Groundnuts Marginal Soya Medium to high Sunflower Hieh Wheat Optimal Maize Moderate to hieh

Although climatically and based on the soil tlrere is most certainly potential to produce soya, sunflower and maize. The challenge however i:; the size of the land per lessee which will make it almost impossible to successfully produce as the overhead costs and tlre difficulty to get such a small area harvesterd impossible.

A viable option might however be vegetable production if wa'ter vuas available. Currently no irrigation water is available. There are two boreholes; on the site and according to Mr Sethole the borehole on his farm has been testedl and found to l'rar enough water to irrigate his portion. He however could not substantiate it.

4.2 Livestock production

The official longterm icarrying capacity of thi:; site is Sha/LSU. lf onre look into the type of natural grazing it is most suitable for beef cattle farming. l-he land is currently not utilised but is in a sub-climax condition with the dontinant grass Eragristis lehmaniana and other plant species of lesser grazing value. The implicatic of the condition of the grazing is that the carrying capacity will not be more than 75% of the longterm potential of the land. In is thus be save tio sal/ that on this 5"2h of land one will not even be able to carry one LSU.

At a price of R20, 50 6rer kilogram for A gradr: beef and a calving percentage of 7llT" a gross margin of R225',2.46 can be expected per LSU. The gross margin on this site wi thus not exceed aboLrt Rl-700.00 per annum. as proposed will exceed the cost of the loss of production on this far as there is manylchallenges and risks involved from crop produdtion, and the for grazing is due to the size of the land and the current condittion of the

tffe necessary approval be granted to proceed with the

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix E: Comments and responses report

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN: KROONSTAD Farmer Production Support Unit

For Department: Rural Development and Land Reform

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN – KROONSTAD FPSU

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

1. DEFINITIONS ...... 81 2. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ...... 82 3. SCOPE ...... 82 4. SITE SPECIFIC INFORMATION ...... 83 5. INTERPRETATIONS ...... 83 6. ROLE PLAYERS AND RESPONSIBILITY MATRIX ...... 83 7. RECOMMENDED FORMAL ENVIRONMENTAL COMMUNICATION CHANNELS ...... 86 8. OBJECTIVES OF THE EMP ...... 87 9. ACTIVITIES COVERED BY THE EMP ...... 87 9.1 PLANNING STAGE ...... 87 9.2 CONSTRUCTION PHASE ...... 87 10. IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS AND IMPACTS...... 87 11. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ...... 88 (a) General ...... 88 (b) Statutory and other applicable legislation ...... 88 12. ADMINISTRATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL OBLIGATIONS ...... 88 (a) Appointment of an Environmental Site Officer (ESO) ...... 88 (b) Administration ...... 89 13. TRAINING ...... 89 14. RECORD KEEPING ...... 90 15. COMPLIANCE AND PENALTIES ...... 90 16. REPORT AVAILABILITY ...... 91 17. ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION SPECIFICATIONS FOR IMPACTS ...... 91 17.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES ...... 91 17.2 ESTABLISHING OFFICE / CAMP SITES ...... 91 17.3 AIR QUALITY ...... 92 17.4 NOISE AND VIBRATIONS ...... 92 17.5 EROSION CONTROL ...... 92 17.6 CONTAMINATION OF LAND ...... 93 17.7 SURFACE WATER QUALITY ...... 93 17.8 WATER USAGE ...... 94 17.9 WETLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 94 17.10 FAUNA AND FLORA ...... 94 17.11 SAFETY ...... 95 17.12 HISTORICAL ARCHEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE IMPACTS ...... 95 18. REHABILITATION ...... 96 19. HANDLING OF EMERGENCIES ...... 96 20. METHOD STATEMENTS ...... 96

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

1. DEFINITIONS

Alien Vegetation: alien vegetation is defined as undesirable plant growth which shall include, but not be limited to; all declared category 1 and 2 listed invader species as set out in the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA) regulations. Other vegetation deemed to be alien shall be those plant species that show the potential to occupy in number, any area within the defined construction area and which are declared to be undesirable.

Aspect: Element of an organisation’s activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.

Auditing: A systematic, documented, periodic and objective evaluation of how well the environmental management plan is being implemented and is performing with the aim of helping to safeguard the environment by: facilitating management control which would include meeting regulatory requirements. Results of the audit help the organisation to improve its environmental policies and management systems.

Built environment: Physical surroundings created by human activity, e.g. buildings, houses, roads, bridges and harbours.

Contamination: Polluting or making something impure.

Corrective (or remedial) action: Response required addressing an environmental problem that is in conflict with the requirements of the EMP. The need for corrective action may be determined through monitoring, audits or management review.

Degradation: The lowering of the quality of the environment through human activities, e.g. river degradation, soil degradation.

Ecology: The scientific study of the relationship between living things (animals, plants and humans) and their environment.

Ecosystem: The relationship and interaction between plants, animals and the non-living environment.

Environment: environment means the surroundings within which humans exist and that could be made up of - • the land, water and atmosphere of the earth; • micro-organisms, plant and animal life; • any part or combination of (i) and (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them; and • the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and well-being.

Environmental aspect: an environmental aspect is any component of a contractor’s construction activity that is likely to interact with the environment.

Environmental impact: an impact or environmental impact is the change to the environment, whether desirable or undesirable, that will result from the effect of a construction activity. An impact may be the direct or indirect consequence of a construction activity.

Environmental Authorisation: an environmental authorisation is a written statement from the National Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, (N.DEAT) that records its approval of a planned undertaking to improve, upgrade or rehabilitate a section of road and the mitigating measures required to prevent or reduce the effects of environmental impacts during the life of a contract.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT Hazardous waste: Waste, even in small amounts that can cause damage to plants, animals, their habitat and the well-being of human beings, e.g. waste from factories, detergents, pesticides, hydrocarbons, etc.

Land use: The use of land for human activities, e.g. residential, commercial, industrial use.

Mitigation: Measures designed to avoid, reduce or remedy adverse impacts

2. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

3. SCOPE

Environmental Management Group Consultants, as independent environmental managers and impact assessors, has been appointed by SMEC South Africa for the Department: Rural Development and Land Reform to compile and submit an Environmental Management Programme (EMP), in support of the Basic Assessment Process for an EA (Environmental Authorisation under the National Environmental Management Act No 107 of 1998, to the decision making authority namely the DESTEA; for the development of a Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU) in Kroonstad.

This document is compiled in accordance with the Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) philosophy which aims to achieve a desirable balance between conservation and development (DEAT, 1992). IEM is a key instrument of the National Environmental Management Act [NEMA] (Act No. 107 of 1998). NEMA promotes the integrated environmental management of activities that may have a significant effect on the environment, while IEM prescribes a methodology for ensuring that environmental management principles are fully integrated into all stages of the development process. It advocates the use of several environmental management tools that are appropriate for the various levels of decision- making. One such tool is an EMP. The IEM guidelines encourage a pro-active approach to sourcing, collating and presenting information in a manner that can be interpreted at all levels. The basic principles underpinning IEM are that there be:

▪ informed decision-making; ▪ accountability for information on which decisions are taken; ▪ accountability for decisions taken; ▪ a broad meaning given to the term environment (i.e. one that includes physical, biological, social, economic, cultural, historical and political components); ▪ an open, participatory approach in the planning of proposals; ▪ consultation with interested and affected parties; ▪ due consideration of alternative options; ▪ an attempt to mitigate negative impacts and enhance positive aspects of proposals; ▪ an attempt to ensure that the ‘social costs’ of development proposals (those borne by society, rather than the developers) be outweighed by the ‘social benefits’ (benefits to society as a result of the actions of the developers); ▪ democratic regard for individual rights and obligations; ▪ compliance with these principles during all stages of the planning, implementation and decommissioning of the proposals (i.e. from ‘cradle to grave’); and ▪ the opportunity for public and specialist input in the decision-making process.

The Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations that took effect in December 2014 regulate the procedures and criteria for the submission, processing, consideration and decision on applications for environmental authorisation of listed activities.

The general principles contained within this document apply to all PLANNING PHASE, CONSTRUCTION PHASE, OPERATIONAL PHASE activities with regard to the development of the Kroonstad FPSU.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 4. SITE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Environmental Management Group has been appointed by SMEC South Africa for the Department: Rural Development and Land Reform to conduct the Basic Assessment application of the Kroonstad FPSU.

The FPSU is a rural outreach unit connected with the Agri-Hub. It focusses on primary collection, storage, processing, and extension services including mechanization.

The FPSU envision to provide the following key elements in terms of support to the local farmers:

• Information Services • Input support • Mechanisation Support • Facilities • Training • Market intelligence

The FPSU is set to be located within Kroonstad within the Moqhaka Local Municipality of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality. The FPSU site is located on the left-hand side of the R76 provincial road, approximately 5 km north-west of the Kroonstad Central Business District. The location of the FPSU site was chosen for its proximity to the commonage and smallholder farmers in the region. The distance from the Kroonstad FPSU to the Parys Agri- Hub is approximately 98 km when driving from the R721 provincial road.

The proposed site is a green field site with a relatively flat topography. The site was used for agricultural activities, such as grazing and dryland farming. There are no existing buildings on the site and some areas are fenced with a stock fence, installed by the neighbouring owners. There are other small holdings with resident buildings surrounding the proposed site.

There is no water supply dedicated to the proposed FPSU site, however there is Municipal water supply pipeline that service the community in Meadows. The exact position and capacity of the bulk water supply pipeline, supplying the Meadows residents will be confirmed with the Moqhaka Local Municipality.

5. INTERPRETATIONS

The implementation of the EMP is not an additional or “add on” requirement. The EMP is legally binding through NEMA. The proponent is to ensure that through the project tender process the EMP forms part of the Project Contract Document for the proposed Kroonstad FPSU development to be incorporated in line with: a) General project specifications; and b) SANS 1200 A or SANS 1200 AA, as applicable.

6. ROLE PLAYERS AND RESPONSIBILITY MATRIX

In order for the EMP to be successfully implemented, all the role players involved in the project need to co-operate. For this to happen, role players must clearly understand their roles and responsibilities in the project, must be professional, form respectful and transparent relationships, and maintain open lines of communication. 83

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Table 1: Functions and Responsibilities of Project Team KEY FUNCTION RESPONSIBILITY P Proponent Proponent is ultimately accountable for ensuring compliance to the EMP. The ECO must be contracted by the Proponent (full time or part time depending on the size of the project) as an independent appointment to objectively monitor implementation of relevant environmental legislation, conditions of the EMP for the project. The Proponent is further responsible for providing and giving mandate to enable the ECO to perform responsibilities. The developer must ensure that the ECO is integrated as part of the project team. CE Consulting Engineer Contracted by the developer to design and specify the project engineering aspects. Generally the engineer runs the works contract. The CE may also fulfil the role of Project Manager on the proponent’s behalf (See PM). PM Project Manager The Project Manager has over-all responsibility for managing the project, contractors, and consultants and for ensuring that the environmental management requirements are met. The CE may also act as the PM. All decisions regarding environmental procedures must be approved by the PM. The PM has the authority to stop any decommissioning activity in contravention of the EMP in accordance with an agreed warning procedure. ER Engineers Representative The consulting engineer’s representative on site. Has the power/mandate to issue site instructions and in some instances, variation orders to the contractor, following request by the EO or ECO. The ER oversees site works, liaison with Contractor and ECO. EO/EM Environmental Officer / Appointed by the Consulting Engineers as their environmental representative on site. Environmental Manager The EO is not independent but must rather act on behalf of the consulting engineers with the mandate to enforce compliance under the project contract, which must include the EMP. The EO has the directive to issue non-conformance and hazard certificates. Further, in terms of accepted industry practice the EO could issue the equivalent of a “cease works” instruction only in exceptional circumstances where serious environmental harm has been or is about to be caused i.e. in cases of extreme urgency and then only when the ER is absent. The EO must form part of the project team and be involved in all aspects of project planning that can influence environmental conditions on the site. On certain types of projects, such as linear developments (fences, pipelines, etc), the EO must also be the liaison between the contractor and landowners. The EO must attend relevant project meetings, conduct daily inspections to monitor compliance with the EMP, and be responsible for providing reports and feedback on potential environmental problems associated with the development to the project team and ECO. The EO must convey the contents of this EMP to the Contractor site team and discuss the contents in detail with the Contractor as well as undertake to conduct an induction and an environmental awareness training session prior to site handover to all contractors and their workforce. The EO must be suitably experienced with the relevant qualifications and preferably competent in construction related methods and practices. ECO Environmental Control An independent appointment to objectively monitor implementation of relevant Officer environmental legislation, conditions of Environmental Authorisations (EA’s), and the EMP for the project. The ECO must be on site prior to any site establishment and must endeavour to form an integral part of the project team. The ECO must be proactive and have access to specialist expertise as and when required, these include botanists, ecologists, etc. Further, the ECO must also have access to expertise such as game capture, snake catching, etc. The ECO must conduct audits on compliance to relevant environmental legislation, conditions of EA, and the EMP for the project. The size and sensitivity of the development, based on the EIA, will determine the frequency at which the ECO will be required to conduct audits. (A minimum of a monthly site inspection must be 84

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT undertaken). The ECO must be the liaison between the relevant authorities and the project team. The ECO must communicate and inform the developer and consulting engineers of any changes to environmental conditions as required by relevant authoritative bodies. The ECO must ensure that the registration and updating of all relevant EMP documentation is carried out. The ECO must be suitably experienced with the relevant environmental management qualifications and preferably competent in construction related methods and practices. The ECO must handle information received from whistle blowers as confidential and must address and report these incidences to the relevant Authority as soon as possible. On small projects, where no EO is appointed, the ECO must convey the contents of this EMP to the Contractor site team and discuss the contents in detail with the Contractor as well as undertake to conduct an induction and an environmental awareness training session prior to site handover to all contractors and their workforce. C Contractor The principle contractor, hereafter known as the ‘Contractor’, is responsible for implementation and compliance with the requirements of the EMP and conditions of the EA’s, contract and relevant environmental legislation. The Contractor must ensure that all sub-contractors have a copy of and are fully aware of the content and requirements of this EMP. The contractor is required, where specified, to provide Method Statements setting out in detail how the management actions contained in the EMP will be implemented. ESO Environmental Site Officer The ESO is employed by the Contractor as his/her environmental representative to monitor, review and verify compliance with the EMP by the contractor. This is not an independent appointment; rather the ESO must be a respected member of the contractor’s management team. Dependent on the size of the development the ESO must be on site one week prior to the commencement of construction. The ESO must ensure that he/she is involved at all phases of the constriction (from site clearance to rehabilitation). A Lead Authority The authorities are the relevant environmental department that has issued the Environmental Authorisation. The authorities are responsible for ensuring that the monitoring of the EMP and other authorisation documentation is carried out, this will be achieved by reviewing audit reports submitted by the ECO and conducting regular site visits. OA Other Authorities Other authorities are those that may be involved in the approval process of an EMP. Their involvement may include reviewing EMP’s to ensure the accuracy of the information relevant to their specific mandate. Other authorities may be involved in the development, review or implementation of an EMP. For example if a specific development requires a water use licence for the relevant national authority then that authority should review and comment on the content of the particular section pertaining to that mandate. EAP Environmental Assessment The definition of an environmental assessment practitioner in Section 1 of NEMA is Practitioner “the individual responsible for the planning, management and coordination of environmental impact assessments, strategic environmental assessments, environmental management plans or any other appropriate environmental instruments introduced through regulations”.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

7. RECOMMENDED FORMAL ENVIRONMENTAL COMMUNICATION CHANNELS

Report & Feedback A

EA Report & Feedback P ECO

Contractual Issues EO Specialists

CE Request site instructions I&APs Site instruction ER Emergency request site instructions Site instruction C

Site instruction ESO

Sub-contractor

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

8. OBJECTIVES OF THE EMP

The specific objectives of this EMP are to: • To provide explicit operational guidelines and environmental monitoring requirements during the construction phases so that activities are done in environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. • To benefit the host communities, minimise the impacts on the environment and to ensure the health and safety of the community by creating a development that eliminates unacceptable health hazards and ensures public and animal safety. • To enable Moqhaka Local Municipality and its contractors to use resources efficiently and effectively during the project lifecycle in order to reduce wastage and thereby reduce associated negative environmental impacts. In addition, the aim is also to handle waste streams responsibly and apply the ‘reduce, re-use and recycle’ principle, wherever possible • To leave areas disturbed by construction in a rehabilitated, stable, non-polluting and tidy condition.

9. ACTIVITIES COVERED BY THE EMP

9.1 PLANNING STAGE

The project planning stage consists of road and structure designing and layout, surveying and ensuring that all plans and required contracts, permits/licenses and agreements are in place.

9.2 CONSTRUCTION PHASE

The construction phase will start after the relevant authorizations are granted. The construction phase involves earthwork, existing housing shifting, superstructure development, service provision and finishing. The construction phase will start after the relevant authorizations are granted. This phase includes: • Establishment of construction camp and equipment yards • Transportation of construction material and other resource inputs, • Use of heavy construction equipment on site. • Storage of input materials and disposal of waste generated • Construction of building structures • Provision on ancillary service such as parking bays, connections to municipal water and sewer

Rehabilitation of the disturbed areas through: • Demolition/Removal of any unwanted construction fences and infrastructure • Top-soiling and re-vegetation of areas disturbed by construction

10. IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS AND IMPACTS

The contractor shall identify likely aspects before commencing with any construction activity. Examples of environment aspects include:

• waste generation • stormwater discharge • emission of pollutants into the atmosphere

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • chemical use operations • energy use operations • water use operations • use of natural resources • noise generation

Thereafter the contractor shall programme his work in such a way that each cause and effect of a construction activity is also identified and the activity planned so as to prevent any impact from happening. If prevention is not practicable, or in the event of mishap or misapplication, the contractor shall provide plans and measures for the engineer’s approval, which will limit and contain the magnitude, duration and intensity of the impact. The contractor shall demonstrate that he is capable of carrying out any repair and reinstatement of the damaged environment.

Listed below are some environmental impacts that could adversely alter an aspect of the environment through usual construction activities:

• Pollution of atmosphere, soil or water • Destruction or removal of fauna and flora and effect on biological diversity • Deformation of the landscape • Soil erosion • Effect on the built environment

11. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

(a) General

Construction activities will be according to the best industry practices, as identified in the project documents. This EMP, which forms an integral part of the contract documents, informs the contractor as to his duties in the fulfilment of the project objectives, with particular reference to the prevention and mitigation of environmental impacts caused by Construction activities associated with the project. The contractor should note that obligations imposed by the EMP are legally binding in terms of environmental statutory legislation and in terms of the additional conditions to the general conditions of contract that pertain to this project. In the event that any rights and obligations contained in this document contradict those specified in the standard or project specifications then the latter shall prevail.

(b) Statutory and other applicable legislation

The contractor is deemed to have made himself conversant with all legislation pertaining to the environment, including provincial and local government ordinances, which may be applicable to the contract.

12. ADMINISTRATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL OBLIGATIONS

(a) Appointment of an Environmental Site Officer (ESO)

For the purposes of implementing the conditions contained herein, the contractor shall submit to the engineer for approval the appointment of a nominated representative of the contractor as the ESO for the contract. The request shall be given, in writing, at least fourteen days before the start of any work clearly setting out reasons for the nomination, and with sufficient detail to enable the engineer to make a decision. The engineer will, within

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT seven days of receiving the request, approve, reject or call for more information on the nomination. Once a nominated representative of the contractor has been approved he/she shall be the ESO and shall be the responsible person for ensuring that the provisions of the EMP are complied with during the life of the contract. The engineer will be responsible for issuing instructions to the contractor where environmental considerations call for action to be taken. The ESO shall submit regular written reports to the engineer, but not less frequently than once a month.

The engineer shall have the authority to instruct the contractor to replace the ESO if, in the engineer’s opinion, the appointed officer is not fulfilling his/her duties in terms of the requirements of the EMP or this specification. Such instruction will be in writing and shall clearly set out the reasons why a replacement is required.

(b) Administration

Before the contractor begins each construction activities the ESO shall give to the engineer a written statement setting out the following:

• The type of construction activity. • Locality where the activity will take place. • Identification of the environmental aspects and impacts that might result from the activity. • Methodology for impact prevention for each activity or aspect. • Methodology for impact containment for each activity or aspect. • Emergency/disaster incident and reaction procedures. • Treatment and continued maintenance of impacted environment.

The contractor may provide such information in advance of any or all construction activities provided that new submissions shall be given to the engineer whenever there is a change or variation to the original.

The engineer may provide comment on the methodology and procedures proposed by the ESO, but he shall not be responsible for the contractor’s chosen measures of impact mitigation and emergency/disaster management systems. However, the contractor shall demonstrate at inception and at least once during the contract that the approved measures and procedures function properly.

13. TRAINING

The designated environmental site officer (ESO) must be conversant with all legislation pertaining to the environment applicable to this contract and must be appropriately trained in environmental management and must possess the skills necessary to impart environmental management skills to all personnel involved in the contract.

The contractor shall ensure that adequate environmental training takes place. All employees shall have been given an induction presentation on environmental awareness. Where possible, the presentation needs to be conducted in the language of the employees. The environmental training should, as a minimum, include the following:

• The importance of conformance with all environmental policies; • The environmental impacts, actual or potential, of their work activities; • The environmental benefits of improved personal performance; • Their roles and responsibilities in achieving conformance with the environmental policy and procedures and with the requirement of the Agency’s environmental management systems, including emergency preparedness and response requirements;

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • The potential consequences of departure from specified operating procedures; • The mitigation measures required to be implemented when carrying out their work activities.

In the case of permanent staff the contractor shall provide evidence that such induction courses have been presented. In the case of new staff (including contract labour) the contractor shall inform the engineer when and how he intends concluding his environmental training obligations.

14. RECORD KEEPING

The day-to-day monitoring and verification that the Construction EMP is being adhered to shall be undertaken by the Contactor and the DEO. Monitoring required on a regular basis is shown in the environmental monitoring table A.

The contractor shall establish an internal review procedure to monitor the progress and implementation of the Construction EMP. Where necessary, and upon the recommendation of the ECO, procedures that require modification shall be changed to improve the efficiency of the Construction EMP. Any slight changes or adjustments to the Construction EMP shall be discussed with the ECO and documented. Significant modifications to the Construction EMP shall however need to be approved by Dept of Environmental Affairs before the changes or adjustments to the EMP are implemented.

The ECO shall visit and audit the site once a month to ensure that correct operational procedures are being implemented and that the Contractor is complying with the environmental specifications in the Construction EMP. Additional site inspections by the ECO may be needed during the initial and final stages of the project. The ECO shall address any queries to the contractor and Moqhaka Local Municipality. If the queries cannot be resolved at this level if necessary, the Department of Environmental Affairs shall be involved.

At the conclusion of the project an environmental performance report shall be compiled and submitted to Department of Environmental Affairs. This report shall be compiled by the ECO, in collaboration with the Contractor and Moqhaka Local Municipality and the project managers. It shall, as a minimum, outline the implementation of the Construction EMP, and highlight any problems and issues that arose during the construction period to report, on a formal basis, the lessons learned from the project

15. COMPLIANCE AND PENALTIES

The contractor shall act immediately when a notice of non-compliance is received and correct whatever is the cause for the issuing of the notice. Complaints received regarding activities on the construction site pertaining to the environment shall be recorded in a dedicated register and the response noted with the date and action taken. This record shall be submitted with the monthly reports and an oral report given at the monthly site meetings.

Any non-compliance with the agreed procedures of the EMP is a transgression of the various statutes and laws that define the manner by which the environment is managed therefore any avoidable non-compliance, dependant on severity, shall be considered sufficient grounds for contact to be made with relevant provincial or national authorities.

The engineer’s decision with regard to what is considered a violation, its seriousness and the action to be taken against the contractor shall be final. Failure to redress the cause shall be reported to the relevant authority. The responsible provincial or national authorities shall ensure compliance and impose penalties relevant to the transgression as allowed for within its statutory powers.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 16. REPORT AVAILABILITY

Copies of this EMP shall be kept at the construction site office and will be accessible to all senior contract personnel. All senior personnel working on the project shall be required to familiarise themselves with the contents of this document.

17. ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION SPECIFICATIONS FOR IMPACTS

17.1 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

It is important to minimize any negative perception, by taking proactive measures to prevent any social conflicts or social gaps and to develop a positive attitude within the community of the project. The following management strategies are to be implemented: • Transparent fair recruitment and procurement practices. The contractor chosen should maximize the involvement of local communities in construction and support activities, to the extent possible, based on available skill levels. Whenever possible, training programmes that will benefit both construction stage skills requirements and long-term employment demand should be developed. • The recruitment selection process should seek to promote gender equality and the employment of women wherever possible. • Priority should be given to the local suppliers of goods and services, which meet requirements of project procurement as far as is possible. In order to optimize the opportunities for local businesses to supply goods and services to the project, the contractor will do a survey of the capabilities of the goods and services that are locally available that are of an acceptable standard and quality and a survey of the capabilities of local construction companies and identify opportunities for local suppliers. • A public complaint register and system to ensure that community complaints clearly investigated and adequate remedial taken should be instituted. • Adequate notification should be done to people residing close to where construction activities are taking place especially if they are to be affected by them. In addition, there should be a system of compensation for any damages to infrastructure that may occur. • Each worker should be required to abide by a Code of Conduct which will limit unsavoury activities in local towns and communities and restrict certain behaviours in the work sites and accommodation.

17.2 ESTABLISHING OFFICE / CAMP SITES

• The area chosen for these purposes shall be the minimum reasonably required and which will involve the least disturbance to vegetation. No trees or shrubs will be felled or damaged for the purpose of obtaining firewood, unless agreed to by the landowner/tenant. • Fires will only be allowed in facilities or equipment specially constructed for this purpose. If required by applicable legislation, a fire-break shall be cleared around the perimeter of the camp and office sites. • Lighting and noise disturbance or any other form of disturbance that may have an effect on the landowner/tenant/persons lawfully living in the vicinity shall be kept to a minimum. • Chemical toilet facilities or other approved toilet facilities should be sited in such a way that they do not cause water or other pollution. The use of existing facilities must take place in consultation with the landowner/tenant. • In cases where facilities are linked to existing sewerage structures, all necessary regulatory requirements concerning construction and maintenance should be adhered to. The facilities must comply with water act requirements. • Adequate signage must be provided and the area must be appropriated secured.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • Adequate parking and security should be provided at the campsites.

17.3 AIR QUALITY

The main sources of impact on air quality are mobilization of equipment, land clearing and earthworks. To ensure air quality characteristics of the project area are maintained near the baseline conditions during of the construction stage, the following measures shall be done:

• Regular inspection and scheduled maintenance of all equipment to ensure that construction vehicles are in good condition, are utilising fuel efficiently and do not smoke. • Periodically watering the bare surfaces and excavations during construction to keep the dust level down. • Slowing down the vehicles carrying the construction materials to reduce dust generation. • Properly wrapping the material truck containers with cover to avoid dust spreads on windy days and prohibiting transport of over loaded trucks. • Providing and using the safety equipment such as dust mask, noise cover for employees who work near the dusty location such as the heavy equipment operators • Optimization of working schedule and work to help to minimize several material vehicle mobilization trips.

17.4 NOISE AND VIBRATIONS

The primary noise sources will be vehicles and equipment utilized during the construction stage including graders, bulldozers, general purpose vehicles, etc. To manage the impact the following will be done:

• Working schedule for the activities with high noise level will be arranged between 08:00 AM to 17:00 PM. • Only well-maintained vehicles and equipment should be operated onsite and all machinery should be serviced regularly during the construction stage. • Avoiding unnecessary simultaneous noisy activities. • No amplified music shall be allowed at the site. • Selecting ‘quiet’ construction equipment and working method and avoiding unnecessary revving and hooting. • Providing ear protection for activities that are likely to create noise in order to protect worker’s health and safety.

17.5 EROSION CONTROL

Construction activities will require the removal of vegetation cover, potentially resulting in soil erosion and subsequent impacts on surface water quality due to uncontrolled rainwater run-off or mechanical/wind action. The following measures are necessary to minimise impacts. • Clearance of vegetation should be restricted to the absolute minimum required to facilitate construction activities to proceed. No protected plant species shall be removed without a permit. Disturbance of topsoil and vegetation rootstock must be minimized as far as possible. • Appropriate drainage systems will be built to accommodate the surface water movement from the rain and wind. • Construction activities shall take place only within the approved demarcated area. Appropriate drainage facilities must be constructed to make sure water runs smoothly downstream. • Top soil layer will be kept to rehabilitate and will be adequately stored to protect it from erosion. • Areas where construction has been finished should immediately be re-vegetated.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 17.6 CONTAMINATION OF LAND

Land contamination may occur as a result of fuel and oil leaks or spills and/or poor fuel, chemical and waste storage. • The storage areas shall be securely fenced and secured and appropriately marked to indicate the goods in the storage. Material Safety Data Sheets should be kept for all hazardous materials on site. • All hazardous substances and stocks such as diesel, oils, detergents, etc., shall be stored in areas with impervious flooring such as concrete and properly bunded. Drip pans, other impervious surface, shall be installed in such storage areas with a view to prevent soil and water pollution. • Dedicated impervious areas should be designated for concrete mixing and the spillage from concrete mixed should be cleaned immediately. • The waste management strategy on the construction site should be hinged on the waste hierarchy model of ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ waste in order to reduce the ultimate impact on the environment. • All used oils, grease or hydraulic fluids shall be placed in appropriate impervious containers and these receptacles will be removed from the site on a regular basis for disposal at a licensed disposal facility or sent for recycling/reuse with a registered facility. • Residues from machinery maintenance and other sources contaminated with hazardous waste should be stored in proper containers that avoid seepage to ground. • Spills should be cleaned up immediately by removing the spillage together with the polluted soil and by disposing of them at a recognised facility. In areas where the spills are some, an absorbent agent can be used and the area treated in situ • Adequate waste receptacles shall be made available and all waste shall be adequately stored so that it does not pose a pollution risk. General waste is to be disposed of through the municipal service. Any other waste will be disposed of through only licensed waste disposal facilities.

17.7 SURFACE WATER QUALITY

Poor chemical storage and poor waste management practices may lead to the contamination of water sources. Sewage and sanitary effluent has the potential to adversely affect the quality of receiving water bodies unless properly managed. To eliminate the risk of contamination, the following measures have to be instituted. • Chemical toilets shall be used during the construction stage and a registered service provider shall be contracted to service the toilets regularly. • Suitable covered receptacles for waste shall be available at all times and conveniently placed for the disposal of waste. • Warehouse floors and workshop areas should be of concrete. Drainage from warehouse is collected separately with trap for oil or fuels oil. Trap containers when full will be removed, properly stored and sent out to oil waste management company. • Refuelling, fuel loading/unloading, oil change-outs, waste storage and disposal activities must be carefully managed to prevent spillages. • Adequate toilets must be available on site for use by construction staff at all times. The digging of pit latrines for this purpose is not allowed under any circumstances. Should chemical toilets be used, an appropriate contractor must be employed to service these facilities on an ongoing basis. • Spills or overflows from chemical or other toilets used by construction staff must be dealt with by a sanitation expert immediately. • Any effluents containing oil, grease or other industrial substances must be collected in a suitable receptacle and treated prior to discharge or removed from the site for appropriate disposal at a recognised facility.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT 17.8 WATER USAGE

• Any water that is used which does not emanate from Municipality supplies must be registered and authorised by the Department of Water Affairs prior to usage commencement. • The contractor shall promote responsible water use by all personnel.

17.9 WETLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN

• The storm water management needs to be maintained to ensure natural flow of water will not be disturbed. • No movement of heavy machinery is allowed in the delineated wetland areas. • The wetlands need to be clearly demarcated prior to construction to ensure no movement occurs within the wetlands. • The infrastructure containing the dirty water from the feedlot farm needs to be inspected for leakage. • Buffer zones delineated by the wetland specialist needs to be maintained. • Drip trays needs to be placed under stationary vehicles during construction, to prevent contamination of soil water. • The degraded wetlands are still recommended for exclusion as far as possible from development of the FPSU. No construction activities, material or waste should occur or be placed in these areas or the buffer zone. • As long as the recommended buffer zones are maintained from these wetland areas the impact should remain relatively low. • In addition, adequate storm water management systems should be implemented and is especially relevant where runoff from livestock facilities with high nutrient values may affect these wetland areas. • The depression wetlands should be treated as no-go areas as far as possible and no construction activities, material or waste should occur or be placed in these areas • Adequate monitoring of weed establishment and their continued eradication must be maintained. • The site should be regularly inspected for erosion and this remedied where required. Comprehensive storm water management measures should be implemented to ensure that clean and dirty storm water is kept separate and that this does not affect the depression wetlands on and around the site. This is especially relevant where runoff from livestock facilities with high nutrient values may affect the depression wetland areas. • Monitoring of construction including weed establishment and erosion should take place and should also specifically include any impacts or alterations to the surrounding depression wetlands.

17.10 FAUNA AND FLORA

Fauna and flora are negatively impacted by the clearance of vegetation, noise from construction activities (disturbance) and gathering/ hunting of flora and fauna by workers. The following measures are necessary to mitigate impacts. • Clearance of vegetation should be restricted to the absolute minimum required to facilitate access and undertaken construction activities. • Topsoil shall be removed and kept for use during rehabilitation. • The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal of alien vegetation within areas affected by the construction activities including cleared ground and topsoil stockpiles. Equipment used should be regularly washed down to avoid transporting seeds (invasive species) or plant diseases. • No protected or endangered plant species shall be removed without a permit or license.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT • No trees or shrubs will be felled or damaged for the purpose of obtaining firewood, unless agreed to by the landowner/tenant. • The rehabilitation activities require the re-planting of vegetation in any areas cleared for the construction activities. This will promote soil stability, improve the visual environment and provide faunal habitat. • Hunting/gathering by construction workers must not be permitted. • Localized habitat features such as nests, dens or burrow sites should be avoided as much as possible. In addition, care should be taken in working in areas of active nesting, spawning, and feeding areas.

17.11 SAFETY

• The Contractor shall be responsible for the protection of the public and public property from any dangers associated with the construction and operation of the road activities, • All work should be handled in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and adequate safety precautions taken and suitable sanitation facilities provided in line with the requirements of the act. It is the duty of the contactor to ensure that the all protective measures against accidents are done. • Any works/activities which may pose a hazard to humans and/or domestic animals are to be protected or cordoned off and, if appropriate, warning signage erected • Appropriate security is to be provided at the site to protect equipment and provide for a safe construction site and works areas. • Any damage caused as a result of the construction activities shall be repaired to the satisfaction of the project manager and owner.

17.12 HISTORICAL ARCHEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE IMPACTS

• Should any cultural or archaeological artefacts be found during operational activities, operations must cease immediately and the area secured and SAPS, and the South African Heritage Resources Agency and other relevant authorities informed immediately. • No site of archaeological or historical significance maybe moved without a permit from the SAHRA. Any permitted removal of any archaeological or historical matter must be done under the strict supervision of a qualified registered archaeologist.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

18. REHABILITATION

• On completion of operations, all buildings, structures or objects on the camp/office site shall be demolished and removed. • Where office/camp sites have been rendered devoid of vegetation/grass or where soils have been compacted owing to traffic, the surface shall be scarified or ripped. • On completion of operations, the areas shall be cleared of any contaminated soil, which must be dumped as per the waste management plan. • All infrastructure, equipment, plant, temporary housing and roads and other items used during the construction period will be removed from the site. • Waste material of any description, including receptacles, scrap, rubble and tyres, will be removed entirely from the area and disposed of at a registered waste disposal facility. It will not be permitted to be buried or burned on the site. • Disturbed areas should be left in a safe and stable manner. Preventative measures may be necessary to construct adequate drainage structures including ditches and other structures to facilitate the movement of surface water. • Photographs of the camp and office sites, before and during the construction and after rehabilitation, shall be taken at selected fixed points and kept on record. • The disturbed surfaces shall then be ripped or ploughed and the topsoil previously stored shall be spread evenly to its original depth over the whole area. The area shall then be fertilised if necessary (based on a soil analysis). • The site shall be seeded with a vegetation seed mix adapted to reflect the local indigenous flora. • If a reasonable assessment indicates that the re-establishment of vegetation is unacceptably slow, there might be need that the soil be analysed and any deleterious effects on the soil arising from the construction operation be corrected and the area be seeded with a seed mix to his or her specification.

19. HANDLING OF EMERGENCIES

• The contractor should identify all situations that can lead to emergency situations and provide response strategies. The situations should include fire and major chemical spill. • Contact details of all departments/service providers to be contacted in case of an emergency shall be made available to employees. • Equipment for dealing with emergencies such as spill kits, firefighting equipment, first aid boxes etc shall be made available and personnel properly trained in its use. • All staff on site should be trained on how to handle emergency situations and emergency drills/ rehearsals should be conducted periodically to ensure that staff prepared.

20. METHOD STATEMENTS

The Contractor shall submit written Method Statements to for all environmentally sensitive aspects of the work. It should be noted that Method Statements must contain sufficient information and detail to mitigate the potential impacts of the works on the environment. The Contractor will also need to thoroughly understand what is required of him / her in order to undertake the works. Work shall not commence until Method Statements have been put in place.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT REPORT PREPARED BY: S.E. van Rooyen

CONTACT DETAILS: Email: [email protected] Cell: 084 700 9700

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING Environmental Management Group (Pty) Ltd. COMPANY:

P.O. Box 28242 Danhof 9310 Tel: 051 412 6350 Fax: 051 412 6351

QUALIFICATIONS OF EAP: Sampie van Rooyen has a MS.c in Environmental Sciences and over 5 years’ experience in the environmental industry. IAIA reg. no. 5901 He is also registered with SACNASP reg no. 116554

CO- AUTHOUR DETAILS

NAME: Matshego Keikelame CONTACT DETAILS: Email: [email protected] Tell: 051 412 6350 CO-AUTHOUR QUALIFICATIONS: Matshego Keikelame has a BSc degree in Geography. He has over 3 years environmental assessment experience in projects covering road construction, Agri-Park developments, mining, among many other

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix G(i): Other information

Public Participation Process

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

100 FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UNIT KROONSTAD PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT

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Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 3 2. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ...... 3 3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS CONDUCTED...... 3 3.1. NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT ...... 3 3.2. SITE NOTICES ...... 8 3.2.1 The poster was placed in surrounding area ...... 8 3.2.2 The poster was placed in surrounding area ...... 8 3.3 NOTIFICATION TO LOCAL AUTHORITY ...... 10 3.3.1 Notification for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development...... 10 3.3.2 Notification for Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries...... 11 3.3.3 Notification for Heritage Department of sports, arts, culture and recreation ...... 12 3.3.4 Notification for Department of Rural Development and Land Reform ...... 13 3.3.5 Notification for Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism, Environmental Affairs & Small Business ...... 14 3.3.6 Notification for Department of Water and Sanitation ...... 15 3.3.7 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Executive Mayor ...... 16 3.3.8 Notification for Fezile Dabi District Municipality ...... 17 3.3.9 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality ...... 18 3.3.10 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Councillor Ward 7 ...... 19 3.3.11 Notification for Department of Solid Waste Management ...... 20 3.4 NOTIFICATION TO I&AP ...... 21 3.5 KROONSTAD FPSU LAYOUT PLAN ...... 22 3.6 COMMENTS RECEIVED ...... 23 4. CONCLUSION ...... 24

ABBREVIATIONS BID Background Information Document DWS Department of Water and Sanitation RI&APS Registered Interested & Affected Parties I&APS Interested & Affected Parties PPP Public Participation Process FPSU Farmer Production Support Unit

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1. INTRODUCTION

The Public Participation Process (PPP) forms an integral part of the rectification application process. It provides people with the opportunity to raise their issues and concerns about the proposed development of a FPSU near Kroonstad. A comprehensive public participation process was conducted by EMG Consultants, to ensure that all identified Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) were informed of the proposed project and their input is able to influence decision-making process with regards to the development.

2. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

The Public Participation Process was conducted as per Regulation 39, 40, 41, 42, 43 & 44 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2014 (as amended 07 April 2017) and the Public Participation Guidelines, 2017 were considered. Steps, which were taken to inform the identified I&APs and surrounding community of the proposed development included:

. Newspaper advertisement; . On site Notice and Posters; . Notifications, i.e. Distribution of letters to neighbouring property Owners & Stakeholders.

3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS CONDUCTED

The methods that were undertaken during conducting of the public participation process as discussed in detail below.

3.1. NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT

The project was advertised in local newspaper, The Volksblad on the 16th of November 2017 to inform the I&APs of the Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed development of the FPSU.

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List of I&AP’s

Department/ Organisation Contact Person e-Mail Address Address Fax Nr Contact Nr

Department of Water and Mr Vernon Blair [email protected] PO Box 528 051 403 0370 051 405 9000 Sanitation Bloemfontein 9300

Department of Rural Mr Momelezi Twantwa [email protected] Private Bag X 20546, Bloemfontein, 051 400 5315 051 400 4200 Development and Land 9300 Reform

Department of Agriculture and Mr M Thabethe - Gielie Joubert Street, Glen Rural Development Bloemfontein 9360

Free State Department of Ms Ntando PZ Mbatha [email protected] Private Bag X 20606, 051 447 1901 051 410 4750 Heritage Bloemfontein, 9300

Ward Councillor – Ward 7 Cllr. Lerata Bolofo [email protected] PO Box 579 Geluk Waar, 056 216 9308 073 308 4127 Kroonstad 9499

Moqhaka Local Municipality M S Mqwathi [email protected] Private Bag x 503, Kroonstad, - 056 216 9190 9500 Municipal Building, Hill Street

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FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UNIT KROONSTAD PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT Kroonstad 9500

Fezile Dabi District MS LM Molibeli [email protected] John Vorster Road - 016 976 8600 Municipality P.O Box 10 Sasolburg, 1947

Moqhaka Local Municipality Tokelo Qhena, T.A. (Mr) [email protected] Symond Street, Kroonstad, 9500 +27 (86) 610 6102 +27 (82) 404 0915

Department of Ms Zilungile Mankahla [email protected] Allied Building 3rd Floor 051-400 3517 Agriculture, Forestry and C/O Maitland & West Burger Fisheries Street

BFN, 9300

Moqhaka Local Cllr. Motshidisi Koloi [email protected] Hill Street 056 216 9190 Municipality Executive Kroonstad Mayor 9499

Department of Solid Manager [email protected] Moqhaka Local Municipality 056 216 9271, 082 Waste Management 404 0915

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3.2. SITE NOTICES

Site notices was placed to bring the proposed expansion to the attention of I&APs including surrounding land users.

3.2.1 The poster was placed in surrounding area

3.2.2 The poster was placed in surrounding area

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3.3 NOTIFICATION TO LOCAL AUTHORITY

3.3.1 Notification for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

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3.3.2 Notification for Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

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3.3.3 Notification for Heritage Department of sports, arts, culture and recreation

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3.3.4 Notification for Department of Rural Development and Land Reform

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3.3.5 Notification for Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism, Environmental Affairs & Small Business

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3.3.6 Notification for Department of Water and Sanitation

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3.3.7 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Executive Mayor

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3.3.8 Notification for Fezile Dabi District Municipality

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3.3.9 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality

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3.3.10 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Councillor Ward 7

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3.3.11 Notification for Department of Solid Waste Management

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3.4 NOTIFICATION TO I&AP

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3.5 KROONSTAD FPSU LAYOUT PLAN

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3.6 COMMENTS RECEIVED

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4. CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the methods incorporated in the public participation process to inform the surrounding landowners, users, organs of state and identified government authorities was adequate. All the identified I&APs were given opportunity to give input regarding the proposed development and the comments received are includes in this report.

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Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 3 2. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ...... 3 3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS CONDUCTED ...... 3 3.1. NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT ...... 3 3.2. SITE NOTICES ...... 8 3.2.1 The poster was placed in surrounding area ...... 8 3.2.2 The poster was placed in surrounding area ...... 9 3.3 NOTIFICATION TO LOCAL AUTHORITY ...... 10 3.3.1 Notification for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development...... 10 3.3.2 Notification for Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries...... 11 3.3.3 Notification for Heritage Department of sports, arts, culture and recreation 12 3.3.4 Notification for Department of Rural Development and Land Reform ...... 13 3.3.5 Notification for Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism, Environmental Affairs & Small Business ...... 14 3.3.6 Notification for Department of Water and Sanitation ...... 15 3.3.7 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Executive Mayor ...... 16 3.3.8 Notification for Fezile Dabi District Municipality ...... 17 3.3.9 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality ...... 18 3.3.10 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Councillor Ward 7 ...... 19 3.3.11 Notification for Department of Solid Waste Management ...... 20 3.4 NOTIFICATION TO I&AP ...... 21 3.5 KROONSTAD FPSU LAYOUT PLAN ...... 22 3.6 COMMENTS RECEIVED ...... 23 4. CONCLUSION ...... 24

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FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UNIT KROONSTAD PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT

1. INTRODUCTION

2. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS CONDUCTED

The methods that were undertaken during conducting of the public participation process as discussed in detail below.

3.1. NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT

The project was advertised in local newspaper, The Volksblad on the 16th of November 2017 to inform the I&APs of the Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed development of the FPSU.

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FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UNIT KROONSTAD PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT

List of I&AP’s

Department/ Organisation Contact Person e-Mail Address Address Fax Nr Contact Nr

Department of Water and Mr Vernon Blair [email protected] PO Box 528 051 403 0370 051 405 9000 Sanitation Bloemfontein 9300

Department of Rural Mr Momelezi Twantwa [email protected] Private Bag X 20546, Bloemfontein, 051 400 5315 051 400 4200 Development and Land 9300 Reform

Department of Agriculture and Mr M Thabethe - Gielie Joubert Street, Glen Rural Development Bloemfontein 9360

Free State Department of Ms Ntando PZ Mbatha [email protected] Private Bag X 20606, 051 447 1901 051 410 4750 Heritage Bloemfontein, 9300

Ward Councillor – Ward 7 Cllr. Lerata Bolofo [email protected] PO Box 579 Geluk Waar, 056 216 9308 073 308 4127 Kroonstad 9499

Moqhaka Local Municipality M S Mqwathi [email protected] Private Bag x 503, Kroonstad, - 056 216 9190 9500 Municipal Building, Hill Street

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FARMER PRODUCTION SUPPORT UNIT KROONSTAD PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT Kroonstad 9500

Fezile Dabi District MS LM Molibeli [email protected] John Vorster Road - 016 976 8600 Municipality P.O Box 10 Sasolburg, 1947

Moqhaka Local Municipality Tokelo Qhena, T.A. (Mr) [email protected] Symond Street, Kroonstad, 9500 +27 (86) 610 6102 +27 (82) 404 0915

Department of Ms Zilungile Mankahla [email protected] Allied Building 3rd Floor 051-400 3517 Agriculture, Forestry and C/O Maitland & West Burger Fisheries Street

BFN, 9300

Moqhaka Local Cllr. Motshidisi Koloi [email protected] Hill Street 056 216 9190 Municipality Executive Kroonstad Mayor 9499

Department of Solid Manager [email protected] Moqhaka Local Municipality 056 216 9271, 082 Waste Management 404 0915

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3.2. SITE NOTICES

Site notices was placed to bring the proposed expansion to the attention of I&APs including surrounding land users.

3.2.1 The poster was placed in surrounding area

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3.2.2 The poster was placed in surrounding area

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3.3 NOTIFICATION TO LOCAL AUTHORITY

3.3.1 Notification for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

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3.3.2 Notification for Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

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3.3.3 Notification for Heritage Department of sports, arts, culture and recreation

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3.3.4 Notification for Department of Rural Development and Land Reform

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3.3.5 Notification for Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism, Environmental Affairs & Small Business

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3.3.6 Notification for Department of Water and Sanitation

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3.3.7 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Executive Mayor

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3.3.8 Notification for Fezile Dabi District Municipality

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3.3.9 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality

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3.3.10 Notification for Moqhaka Local Municipality Councillor Ward 7

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3.3.11 Notification for Department of Solid Waste Management

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3.4 NOTIFICATION TO I&AP

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3.5 KROONSTAD FPSU LAYOUT PLAN

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3.6 COMMENTS RECEIVED

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4. CONCLUSION

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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix G (ii): EASFS Kroonstad FPSU

Business Case

117

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

118

List of Tables ...... iii List of Figures ...... iii List of Maps ...... iii List of Abbreviations...... iv 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Purpose and Scope of the Business Case ...... 1 1.2 Background to The Agri-Parks Model ...... 1 2 Site Analysis ...... 3 2.1 Locational Analysis ...... 3 2.2 Property Description and Attributes ...... 4 2.3 Verification Analysis ...... 4 3 Situational Analysis ...... 6 3.1 Local Agricultural Overview ...... 6 3.1.1 Scale of Farming Activities ...... 6 3.1.2 Most Produced Commodities ...... 6 3.1.3 Inputs ...... 6 3.1.4 Produce Markets...... 6 3.1.5 Commodity Selling Prices ...... 6 3.1.6 Other Findings ...... 6 3.2 Summary...... 6 4 Farmer Production Support Unit Concept ...... 7 4.1 Concept Framework ...... 7 4.2 Facilities and Support Services ...... 7 4.3 FPSU: Facilities and Services ...... 10 4.3.1 Security Office ...... 10 4.3.2 Reception and Administration Offices ...... 11 4.3.3 Multi-Purpose Conference and Training Facility ...... 12 4.3.4 Feedlot ...... 14 4.3.5 Multi-Purpose Animal Handling Facility ...... 15 4.3.6 Logistics Centre and Mechanisation Unit ...... 17

4.3.7 Private Storage Units and Feed Storage Warehouse ...... 19 4.3.8 Retail Space and Hawker Stalls ...... 20 4.3.9 Parking Space ...... 20 4.4 Capital Expenditure...... 21 5 Operational Plan ...... 22 5.1 Logistics Centre and Mechanisation Unit ...... 22 5.2 Training ...... 22 5.3 FPSU Integration ...... 23 6 Management Model ...... 24 6.1 Hierarchy of the FPSU ...... 24 6.2 Job Descriptions ...... 25 7 FPSU Stakeholders ...... 26 8 Project Implementation Plan ...... 28 8.1 Project Implementation Plan ...... 29 8.2 Action Plan ...... 30 8.3 Recommendations ...... a 8.3.1 Basic FPSU Recommendations ...... a Annexures...... a Annexure A: Farmers Survey – List of Farmers ...... a Annexure B: FPSU Functions ...... b

List of Tables

Table 1 Site Description and Attributes ...... 4 Table 2 Site Verification Analysis...... 4 Table 3 Facility Sizes and Construction Costing ...... 9 Table 4 Capital Expenditure ...... 21 Table 5 Potential FPSU Stakeholders ...... 26 Table 6 Project Implementation Timeframes ...... 29 Table 7 Kroonstad FPSU Action Plan ...... 30 Table 8 Waste Management Options...... d

List of Figures

Figure 1 Basic Site Layout to Create an Understanding of the FPSU Operations ...... 8 Figure 2 Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Integration ...... 23 Figure 3 Kroonstad FPSU Hierarchy ...... 24 Figure 4 Boran Beef Cattle ...... 27 Figure 5 Example of The FPSU NBDM Card ...... c

List of Maps

Map 1 Access Route from the Kroonstad FPSU to the Parys Agri-Hub ...... 3 Map 2 Kroonstad FPSU Site Location ...... 3 Map 3 Kroonstad FPSU and Parys Agri-Hub Footprint ...... 5

List of Abbreviations

ARC The Agricultural Research Council

DAFF Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries

DAMC District Agri-Park Management Council

DARD Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs

DBSA Development Bank of Southern Africa

DRDLR Department of Rural Development and Land Reform

DTI Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

FDDM Fezile Dabi District Municipality

FGASA Field Guides Association of South Africa

FPSU Farmer Production Support Unit ha hectare km kilometre kVA kilo-volt-ampere m metre m² squared metre

MLM Moqhaka Local Municipality

NARYSEC National Rural Youth Service Corps

NBDM Card Needs-Based Discount Model Card

NERPO National Emergent Red Meat Producers Organization

RMIF Red Meat Industry Forum

RPO Red Meat Producers Organisation

RUMC Rural Urban Market Centre

SAFAS South African Feedlot Association

SAMIC South African Meat Industry Company

SAVA South African Veterinary Association

SEDA Small Enterprise Development Agency

1 Introduction The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) appointed Urban-Econ Development Economists to provide Economic Advisory Services and assist with the development of several business plans, feasibility studies and business cases of The National Agri-Park Programs. 1.1 Purpose and Scope of the Business Case The purpose of this report is to develop a Strategic Business Case to serve as a guideline for the implementation of the Kroonstad Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU) as a key component within the Agri- Park of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality (FDDM).

The scope of this report contains the following main objectives: • The verification of the identified site for the FPSU • Identifictation of the purpose and functions of the FPSU • The identification of the commodities which can be supported at the FPSU • The assessment of the production capacity and potential • Consultation and workshops with stakeholders and advisory agents • Identification of support strategies and support capacity • Assessment of the FPSU site and infrastructure available • Identification of commercial interests as support to the FPSU For the operationalisation of the Agri-Parks Program, Master Agri-Park Business Plans were developed for the conceptualisation of the Agri-Parks model in the relation to the locational context. These business plans discuss the following: 1. The main potential commodities that have development potential. 2. The alignment of the commodity value chain with the Agri-Parks Program. 3. The implementation guidelines, role-players and required infrastructure needed for the development of the Agri-Park. While the Master Business Plan provides information regarding each commodity, a detailed business case for each component of the Agri-Park including each FPSU needs to be developed. 1.2 Background to The Agri-Parks Model The Agri-Park Program is aimed to support small-scale agricultural production and stimulate agro-processing in rural areas. This is achieved through the implementation of Agri-Parks in the forty-four (44) District Municipalities across South Africa. An Agri-Park is an innovative system of agro-production, processing, logistics, marketing and training, and extension services. It enables a market driven combination and integration of various agricultural activities and rural transformation services. The model consists of three interlinked components, namely Farmer Production Support Units (FPSUs), an Agri- Hub and a Rural Urban Market Centre (RUMC). The functions of each component are briefly described below:

Farmer Production Support Unit The FPSU is a rural outreach unit connected with the Agri-Hub. It focusses FPSU on primary collection, storage, processing, and extension services including mechanization

Agri-Hub The Agri-Hub is a production, Agri-Hub equipment hiring, processing, packaging logistics and training unit Rural Urban Market Centre The three main purposes of a RUMC are the linking of rural, urban, and RUMC international markets through contracts, supplying the produce to the markets, and providing market feedback to the Agri-Hub and FPSUs The three components of the Agri-Park will provide a streamlined and integrated approach to rural and agricultural development in South Africa. To ensure the mobilisation of the Agri-Parks Programme, the following guiding principles should be followed: 1. One Agri-Park per district municipality (44 nationally). 2. The Agri-Parks must be farmer controlled. 3. Agri-Parks must be situated close to where rural industrialisation will take place. 4. The government must support the Agri-Parks (for 10 years) to ensure the economic sustainability. 5. Partnerships between government and private-sector stakeholders should be strengthened to ensure the creation of new markets and expanded value-chains. 6. Maximise production of state land with high agricultural potential. 7. Increase and maximise access to markets to all farmers, especially emerging farmers, and rural communities. 8. Maximise the use of land with high agricultural potential. 9. Maximise the use of existing agro-processing, bulk, and logistics infrastructure. 10. Revitalise rural towns and provide support to towns with good growth potential.

The main functions of the Kroonstad FPSU should include: • Provision of agricultural input supplies • Mechanisation support • Extension Support • Local logistical support • Through-put to Agri-Hubs • Limited sorting, packaging, storage • Transportation of produce destined for processing directy from the farm to the Agri-Hub • Information services • Technical and business training

2 Site Analysis This section will provide a location analysis along with a short description of the property, which will elaborate on the attributes of the FPSU site. Urban-Econ conducted a site visit at the chosen site location for the analysis of the site status. 2.1 Locational Analysis The FPSU is set to be located within Kroonstad within the Moqhaka Local Municipality of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality. The FPSU site is located on the left-hand side of the R76 provincial road, approximately 5 km north-west of the Kroonstad Central Business District. The location of the FPSU site was chosen for its proximity to the commonage and smallholder farmers in the region. The distance from the Kroonstad FPSU to the Parys Agri- Map 1 Access Route from the Kroonstad FPSU to the Parys Agri-Hub Hub is approximately 98 km when driving (Source: ArcMap, 2017) from the R721 provincial road.

Map 2 Kroonstad FPSU Site Location (Source: ArcMap, 2017)

2.2 Property Description and Attributes This sub-section provides an analysis and description of the FPSU site location, as well as the key characteristics of the site. It includes the type of uses, size, and ownership status of the site. The descriptions and attributes of the site can be viewed in Table 1 below.

Table 1 Site Description and Attributes Erf Number Remainder of Erf number 14 and 15 of the Meadows Smallholdings Coordinates Latitude: 27°37’12.72” S Longitude: 27°12’45.77” E Site Ownership The proposed site falls under the jurisdiction of the Moqhaka Local Municipality The proposed site is a green field project with a relatively flat topography. The site Site Status was used for agricultural activities, such as grazing and dryland farming. The proposed FPSU site is easily accessible from the gravel road that joins to the Accessibility R76 Provincial Road. Water Supply There is no water supply dedicated to the proposed FPSU site, however there is Municipal water supply pipeline that service the community in Meadows. Electricity Bulk Services There is currently no electricity on the FPSU site. There are however existing electrical supply lines close to the site servicing the surrounding area. Waste Management System There is no existing bulk sewerage lines or waste water treatment systems on-site. Size of Property ±6 ha Zoning The site is presently zoned as agricultural land.

2.3 Verification Analysis For the evaluation of the sustainability and functionality of a FPSU, the site is assessed as the location, ownership, layout, and accessibility of a business play a vital role in the success thereof. Table 2 provides the site evaluation against the site criteria. The site can either correspond or not correspond with the criteria.

Table 2 Site Verification Analysis Criteria Corresponds Does Not Correspond

Property owned by government Property larger than 2 hectares Property zoned accordingly Good accessibility Existing water and electricity Within 60 km from Agri-Hub

Within 10 – 15 km from smallholder farms Close proximity to support services 10 – 15 km from government projects 10 – 15 km from existing farming activities Complimentary surroundings land-uses Possibility to refurbish existing infrastructure The proposed site is suitable for the proposed FPSU development. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) should be undertaken to ensure that the site complies with the Environmental Regulations for the proposed development. SMEC South Africa has been appointed to do the layout plan and other Engineering work for the Kroonstad FPSU site structures.

Map 3 Kroonstad FPSU and Parys Agri-Hub Footprint (Source: ArcMap, 2017)

3 Situational Analysis Within this section, the situation in the catchment area will be analysed. This analysis will project the survey results which will determine the support and services needed from the FPSU to the emerging farmers. 3.1 Local Agricultural Overview In Development – Subject to Kroonstad Farmer Needs Assessment 3.1.1 Scale of Farming Activities 3.1.2 Most Produced Commodities 3.1.3 Inputs 3.1.4 Produce Markets 3.1.5 Commodity Selling Prices 3.1.6 Other Findings 3.1.6.1 Farming Experience 3.1.6.2 Land Acquisition 3.1.6.3 Water Sources 3.2 Summary

4 Farmer Production Support Unit Concept This section outlines the FPSU concept and discuss the key elements which the Kroonstad FPSU envision to provide. This include the facilities, farmer support services, equipment requirements, and business opportunities. 4.1 Concept Framework The main concept of the Kroonstad FPSU is to provide essential and efficient farmer support services and training to developing farmers in the Moqhaka Local Municipal area. These support and training services will focus on the agricultural commodities and input requirements identified in the farmer needs assessment and is also based on the main commodities identified in the Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Master Business Plan, which is red meat, poultry (chicken), and maize. The FPSU will also incorporate private sector businesses, forums, union, and other stakeholders to assist with training and the provision of support services.

The FPSU envision to provide the following key elements in terms of support to the local farmers: • Information Services • Input Support • Mechanisation Support • Facilities • Training • Market Intelligence 4.2 Facilities and Support Services Various facilities are proposed for the Kroonstad FPSU in order to create a one-stop market and training centre for not only developing farmers, but all farmers and citizens who would wish to make use of the FPSU functions.

Facilities to be developed on the Kroonstad FPSU site: • Security Office • Reception and Administrative Offices • Multi-Purpose Conerence and Training Facility • Multi-Purpose Animal Handling and Auction Facility • Roaming Pastuers • Logistics Centre and Mechanisation Unit • Feedlot for 200 Beef Cattle • General Feedlot Buildings • Private Storage Units and Feed Storage Warehouse • Retail Space The main facility of the Kroonstad FPSU is the feedlot. This facility will provide roaming pastures and fodder banks for up to 200 cattle. Figure 1 provides a basic site layout plan.

Figure 1 Basic Site Layout to Create an Understanding of the FPSU Operations

Table 3 below provides a summary for the various facilities proposed for the Kroonstad FPSU. This summary includes the size and costing for each proposed facility1.

Table 3 Facility Sizes and Construction Costing Facility Size Price Per Unit Construction Costs 1 Security Office 16 m² R5 500 R88 000 2 Site Fencing 869 m R433 R376 277 3 Reception and Administration Offices 200 m² R8 500 R1 700 000 4 Multi-Purpose Conference and Training Facility 140 m² R7 500 R1 050 000 5 Feedlot (200 Cattle) 2500 m² R700 R1 750 000 6 Water Reservoir 56..55 m³ R2 652.52 R150 000 7 Multi-Purpose Animal Handling and Auction Facility 200 m² R5 000 R1 000 000 8 Loading Zone 50 m² R5 500 R275 000 9 Logistic Centre and Mechanisation Unit 448 m² R5 500 R2 464 000 10 Feed Storage Warehouse 300 m² R5 500 R1 650 000 11 Private Storage Units 100 m² R6 000 R600 000 12 Retail Space 200 m² R7 500 R1 500 000 13 Hawker Stalls 100 m² R5 000 R500 000 14 Parking 770 m² R150 R115 500 15 Bulk Services 1 - R5 000 000 Total R18 446 814

1 Costing prices do not include any equipment costs. A total Capital Expenditure breakdown can be viewed in the sub-sections to follow.

4.3 FPSU: Facilities and Services This sub-section discusses the various facilities which will be constructed on the Kroonstad FPSU site. This discussion will include the purpose of each facility, the functions and size of the physical building, the required human resources for the operation of the facility, and the estimated costs to construct and equip the facility. 4.3.1 Security Office The security office will serve as the access point to the FPSU site. The main purpose of this facility is to control vehicles and their cargo that enters and exits the FPSU site.

Size The security office will be a 16m² building, which will include a boom accessing gate and the fencing around the FPSU site. The building will also be equipped with ablution facilities for the security officers.

Key Attributes/Functions Vehicles entering the site will have to sign in at the security office upon arrival and sign out when exiting the site. A security inspection on the vehicle and its cargo will be performed by the security officer to safeguard the FPSU’s assets. A boom gate will be used to further regulate vehicles entering and exiting the FPSU site.

Human Resources Requirements Four security officers will be required. Two officers will work a day shift and the second two officers will work night shifts. The day shift will focus primarily on performing security inspections for traffic entering and exiting the site. The night shift will primarily handle late arrivals and perform perimeter inspections on regular intervals throughout the night to ensure that the site is secure against theft.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the security function: ▪ Fencing for the entire FPSU site ▪ Entrance gate (lockable gate and boom gate) to the FPSU site ▪ Construction of the security office building including ablution facilities

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment is required: ▪ 1 x Desk

▪ 2 x Chairs

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R469 616 Building Cost AECOM 16 m² R5 500 R88,000 Fencing of the FPSU Site SA Fence and Gate 869 m R433 R376 277 Entrance Gate Boom Gate Systems 1 R5 339 R5 339 Equipment Costs R3 200 Desk Makro 1 R2 000 R2 000 Chair Makro 2 R600 R1 200 Total R472 816 4.3.2 Reception and Administration Offices The reception and administration office will serve as the face of the FPSU. It will serve as the pay point for products or services purchased at the FPSU, a customer service point to address any complaints or queries as well as an information centre. It will also consist of several offices for the various personnel of the FPSU.

Size The reception and administration office building will be a 200 m² building. The building should include ablution facilities needed for clients and office personnel.

Key Attributes/Functions The reception and administration building will primarily serve as the retail front for the facilities of the FPSU, and as office space for the various personnel of the FPSU.

Human Resources Requirements The following employment positions and primary responsibilities will be required at the reception and administration building: ▪ A receptionist, this person will be the first point of contact for clients, be responsible to facilitate walk-in clients and incoming telephone calls. ▪ A financial and administration clerk, this person will be responsible for processing orders and requests made at the FPSU by clients. Two general cleaners, these individuals will have the responsibility of cleaning the reception area, offices in the building and the restrooms of the entire FPSU site.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required for the establishment of this building: ▪ Reception and Administration office buildings

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment is required: ▪ 6 x Computer ▪ 2 x Multi-Function Printers ▪ 6 x Cell Phones ▪ 6 x Desks ▪ 6 x Chairs

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R1 700 000 Building Cost AECOM 200 m² R8 500 R1 700 000 Equipment Costs R131 400 Desk Makro 7 R3 000 R21 000 Chair Makro 7 R1 800 R12 600 Computer/Laptop Incredible Connection 7 R10 000 R70 000 Multi-Function Printer Incredible Connection 2 R9 600 R19 200 Filling Cabinet Makro 4 R1 800 R7 200 Telephone Telkom 7 R200 R1 400 Total R1 831 400 4.3.3 Multi-Purpose Conference and Training Facility The main purpose of the training facility is to have a suitable space equipped for providing theoretical training to local farmers. However, it will be used for other purposes as well as discussed in the key attributes below.

Size The multi-purpose centre will be a 140 m² building, which will include a training hall, conference room and ablution facilities.

Key Attributes/Functions This multi-purpose centre will be used to facilitate various functions, all of which is listed below: ▪ The primary purpose for this centre will be to facilitate training, it will be used as lecture hall to provide theoretical training to students. ▪ To facilitate conferences and meetings. This facility may be rented out to the public for private functions such as seminars, community speeches, voting stations, etc... This will increase the facility income and contribute to the feasibility of the FPSU.

Human Resources Requirements The centre will only serve as a platform for the various functions it is designed for. However, the general cleaner used in the reception and administration facility will also have the responsibility to clean this facility. The management of this facility will be responsibility of the FPSU Financial and Administrative Clerk.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the multipurpose training facility: ▪ Multi-purpose facility building ▪ Ablution facilities ▪ Boardroom

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment will be required: ▪ 1 x Projector ▪ 1 x Projector Screen ▪ 30 x Student Tables

▪ 100 x Chairs ▪ Boardroom Furniture ▪ 1 x Sound System

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R1 050 000 Building Cost AECOM 140 m² R7 500 R1 050 000 Equipment Costs R64 100 Projector Incredible Connection 1 R6 500 R6 500 Projector Screen Takealot 1 R1 600 R1 600 Student Tables Makro 30 R500 R15 000 Chairs Makro 50 R320 R16 000 Boardroom Furniture Makro 1 R15 000 R15 000 Sound System Makro 1 R10 000 R10 000 Total R1 114 100

4.3.4 Feedlot As per the Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Master Business Plan an opportunity has been identified to provide subsistence and emerging farmers with access to a feedlot facility with a standing capacity of 200 cattle.

Size The actual feedlot should have an area of 2500 m², which allocates 12.5 m² per livestock unit. Furthermore, will this facility include a loading zone, a loading chute camps and camp aisles. The facility would also require a separate water reservoir of 56.55m³.

Key Attributes/Functions This facility will provide feedlot access to farmers in the Moqhaka area and will have a standing capacity of 200 livestock units. This facility will assist in the improvement of the quality of beef provided to the Parys Agri-Hub abattoir and hides for the tannery.

Human Resources Requirements The following positions and primary responsibilities will be required at the feedlot: ▪ A FPSU supervisor to manage livestock at the feedlot. ▪ 3 x General workers to manage the operations of the feedlot and ensure the health of the cattle. These workers will also handle operations in the animal handling facility.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required for the establishment of the feedlot: ▪ 5 x Camps to hold 40 cattle each ▪ 1 x Water reservoir to hold 56 000 litres of water (40 litres per cattle per day)

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment will be required: ▪ 5 x Feed Troughs ▪ 5 x Water Troughs ▪ 5 x Sorting Gates

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R1 900 000 Feedlot Costs AECOM 2 500 m² R700 R1 750 000 Water Reservoir AECOM 56.55 ³m R2 652.52 R150 000 Equipment Costs R56 145 Feed Trough Tal-Tec 5 R3 306 R16 530

Water Trough Tal-Tec 5 R2 280 R22 800 Sorting Gates Tal-Tec 5 R3 363 R16 815 Total R1 956 145 4.3.5 Multi-Purpose Animal Handling Facility The animal handling facility is focused on treating, improving, and managing livestock and wildlife in the catchment area. The animal handling facility will include an auction facility and assist with the operation functions of the feedlot.

Size The animal handling facility will occupy an area of 200 m² on the FPSU site.

Key Attributes/Functions This facility will serve as a practical training facility on the handling of farm animals, as well as an auction facility. Other services available at this facility will include veterinary services and animal handling services such as, holding pens, dehorning, castration, dipping and branding. This facility incorporated with the feedlot is proposed to serve as a stock improvement facility for the produce supplied to the Parys Agri-Hub.

Human Resources Requirements The following positions and primary responsibilities will be required at the animal handling facility: ▪ A veterinarian, this person will be responsible for providing veterinarian services on and off the FPSU site. ▪ An animal technician, for the day-to-day care veterinarian functions such as dehorning, castration, etc... The individual will also be responsible to provide practical and theoretical veterinarian training. ▪ A FPSU supervisor to manage livestock movement during auctions. ▪ 3 x General workers to handle livestock movements through the facility and its functions. ▪ The FPSU supervisor and three general workers is also responsible for the functions and services rendered from the feedlot.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the animal handling facility: ▪ Animal handling building ▪ Ablution facilities ▪ Loading zone ▪ Moveable sorting gates to manage livestock during auctions ▪ Auction and training facility

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment is required: ▪ 1 x Loading Schutte ▪ Vaccination Equipment ▪ 1 x Mobile Cattle Crush ▪ 1 x Vet Clamp ▪ 1 x Calf Squeeze ▪ 20 x Holding Pens (with dividers) ▪ 1 x Cattle Scale ▪ 1 x Cattle Spray Race ▪ 1 x Branding Oven and Irons ▪ 1 x Castrating Clamp ▪ 2 x Horn Clippers ▪ 1 x Immobilizer ▪ 1 x Deworming Pump ▪ 10 x Water Trough ▪ 10 x Feeders ▪ 1x Toyota Hilux

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R1 275 000 Building Cost AECOM 200 m² R5 000 R1 000 000 Loading Zone AECOM 50 m² R5 500 R275 000 Equipment Costs R702 095 Loading Schutte Tal-Tec 1 R31 850 R31 850 Vaccination Equipment Industry Expert 1 R18 000 R18 000 Mobile Cattle Crush Tal-Tec 1 R52 326 R52 326 Vet Clamp Tal-Tec 1 R52 440 R52 440 Calf Squeeze Tal-Tec 1 R1 756 R1 756 Holding Pens Tal-Tec 20 R1 817 R36 340 Sorting Gate Tal-Tec 1 R3 363 R3 363 Cattle Scale Tal-Tec 1 R13 965 R13 965 Cattle Spray Race Tal-Tec 1 R36 309 R36 309 Branding Oven and Irons Tal-Tec 1 R7 325 R7 325 Castrating Clamp Tal-Tec 1 R1 824 R1 824 Horn Clippers Tal-Tec 2 R559 R1 118 Immobilizer Tal-Tec 1 R2 565 R2 565

Deworming Pump Tal-Tec 1 R1 254 R1 254 Water Trough Tal-Tec 10 R2 280 R22 800 Feeders Tal-Tec 10 R3 306 R33 060 Toyota Hilux Oranje Toyota 1 R385 800 R385 800 Total R1 977 095 4.3.6 Logistics Centre and Mechanisation Unit The primary function of the logistical centre is to transport produce and leasing of farming equipment and vehicles to local farmers.

Size This facility will occupy 448 m², which includes a mechanisation unit to serve as a training workshop and a logistical warehouse as a storage facility for equipment and vehicles.

Key Attributes/Functions The logistics centre will provide logistical services to the farmers, since most of the developing farmers do not have any method of transportation. Based on the main commodities identified in the situational analysis, the logistical centre will provide a logistical service that can move livestock and livestock related products such as feed, on behalf of the farmers. It will also transport livestock from the FPSU to the Parys Agri- Hub and feed from the Agri-Hub. Alternatively, the local farmers can lease the vehicles or various farming equipment to use in their farming operations. Moreover, the mechanisation unit will also function as training workshop to teach general knowledge regarding repairing techniques as well as problem solving.

Human Resources Requirements The following positions and primary responsibilities will be required at the logistical centre: ▪ Two full-time drivers, the drivers will be responsible for operating the trucks and pickup trucks at the logistical centre. ▪ A warehouse operator, this individual will be responsible for managing logistical services for the clients and the FPSU. This individual will also be responsible for the management of the farming equipment and vehicle bookings for leasing, especially during peak seasons of planting and harvesting. ▪ Three machine operators, the machine operators will be responsible to operate all the machinery which is rented by clients.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the logistics centre and mechanisation unit: ▪ Logistical Warehouse

▪ Maintenance and Training Workshop

Basic Equipment Requirements The following farming equipment and vehicles are required: ▪ 1 x Toyota Hilux ▪ 1 x 8-ton truck capable of moving livestock ▪ 1 x 8-ton truck for transporting animal feed ▪ 2 x Tractors ▪ 2 x Trailer ▪ 2 x Ploughs ▪ 1 x Planter ▪ 1 x Baler ▪ 1 x Manure Scraper ▪ 1 x Fertilizer and pesticide sprayer ▪ 2 x Maintenance Toolbox and Tools

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R2 464 000 Building Cost AECOM 448 m² R5 500 R2 464 000 Equipment Costs R4 486 794 Toyota Hilux Oranje Toyota 1 R385 800 R385 800 8-ton Truck with Livestock Rails IZUZU Trucks 1 R612 864 R612 864 8-ton Truck (Animal Feed) IZUZU Trucks 1 R669 130 R669 130 Tractor New Holland 2 R830 000 R1 660 000 Trailer Diamond Trailers 2 R100 000 R200 000 Plough New Holland 2 R72 000 R144 000 Planter New Holland 1 R300 000 R300 000 Baler New Holland 1 R210 000 R210 000 Manure Scraper New Holland 1 R35 000 R35 000 Fertilizer and pesticide sprayer New Holland 1 R170 000 R170 000 Maintenance Toolbox and Tools King Tony 2 R50 000 R100 000 Total R6 950 794

4.3.7 Private Storage Units and Feed Storage Warehouse The storage facilities purposed is to provide storage solutions for the FPSU and for private clients. Storage solutions for private client’s primary purpose is to generate additional income for the FPSU.

Size The private storage units will equip 100m² while the feed storage warehouse will be 300m².

Key Attributes/Functions The private storage units will provide dry storage for the FPSU and private clients. These units will have different sections which can be separately rented out by private clients. The feed storage warehouse will be used to store feed obtained from the Parys Agri- Hub for the feedlot and FPSU for sale to the farmers.

Human Resources Requirements The following positions and primary responsibilities will be required at storage facility: ▪ A warehouse operator, this person will have the responsibility to manage the operations of the warehouse, ensure that rent is paid on required date and

monitoring the capacity of the warehouse.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the storage facility: ▪ Private storage facility ▪ Feed storage warehouse

Basic Equipment Requirements The following equipment is required: ▪ 1 x Forklift

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Construction Costs R2 250 000 Private Storage Facility AECOM 100 m² R6 000 R600 000 Feed Storage Warehouse AECOM 300 m² R5 500 R1 650 000 Equipment Costs R381 900 Forklift Toyota Forklifts 1 R381 900 R381 900 Total R2 631 900

4.3.8 Retail Space and Hawker Stalls The objective of developing retail space is to generate additional revenue for the FPSU. The main purpose of this facility is to is to host a farmer’s market to draw public feet to the FPSU site. Potentially it will serve best to establish a corporation as it will assist the farmers with the inputs needed for their farming purposes.

Size The retail space will have an area of 200m² and the Hawker stalls will be 100m².

Key Attributes/Functions The retail space will comprise of stalls for private hawkers and a building which will be rented by retailers or used by the FPSU as a corporation. In this way, the FPSU will generate a revenue.

Human Resources Requirements The FPSU manager will be responsible for managing the retail space, this individual will have the responsibility to ensure that retail space is up to standards and that it is permanently functional.

Infrastructural Requirements The following infrastructure is required to establish the retail space: ▪ A building to serve as a retail store (Corporation) ▪ 10 – 15 stalls to rent out to hawkers

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Retail Facility AECOM 200 m² R7 500 R1 500 000 Stalls AECOM 100 m² R5 000 R500 000 Total R2 000 000 4.3.9 Parking Space The parking lot will provide parking space for FPSU personal and clients who are visiting the retail stores or the FPSU itself.

Size The parking space will occupy a paved area of 770m²

Key Attributes/Functions Parking space is required mainly at office buildings, retail space and the conference centre. The parking will be for the use of people working at the FPSU and will also provide parking for clients.

Estimated Establishment Cost

Establishment Source QTY Price Per Unit Costs Parking (Paving) Bosun Brick 770 m² R150 R115 500 Total R115 500 4.4 Capital Expenditure The capital expenditure of the Kroonstad FPSU can be viewed in Table 4 below. Costs may vary depending on the final number of farmers being catered for as well as the availability and consolidation of existing support units within the district. Facilities and building costs are estimated, based on the Africa Property and Construction Costs Guide 2016 published by AECOM. The costing need to be finalized during the implementation process by professional industry consultants, such as; engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors.2

Table 4 Capital Expenditure Facility Total Price Security Office R472 816 Reception and Administration Offices R1 831 400 Multi-Purpose Conference and Training Facility R1 114 100 Feedlot R1 956 145 Multi-Purpose Animal Handling Facility R1 977 095 Logistics Centre and Mechanization Unit R6 950 794 Private Storage Units and Feed Storage Warehouse R2 631 900 Retail Space and Hawker Stalls R2 000 000 Parking Space R115 500 Bulk Services R5 000 000 Total R24 049 750

2 All prices included in the document is averaged prices and only serve as estimations for the establishment of the facilities. To obtain more accurate prices, it will be necessary to consult with field experts, engineers, and quantity surveyors.

5 Operational Plan This section will discuss the functions of the logistical centre and mechanisation unit, the types of training provided at the FPSU and the integration of the Kroonstad FPSU with the rest of the Fezile Dabi Agri-Park. Other operational functions of the Kroonstad FPSU is discussed within Annexure B. 5.1 Logistics Centre and Mechanisation Unit Machinery, equipment, and vehicles owned by the FPSU should only be leased out to farmers for a maximum consecutive period of two days. In the case where a longer leasing period is required, the equipment must first be leased to other farmers who would wish to use the equipment. If no other farmers booked the equipment the farmer will be able to lease the equipment for a longer period. This will ensure fair availability of FPSU assets to all farmers.

The following guidelines are recommended for the leasing process: • The services should be booked at the FPSU or through the extension officer • The farmers should pay before leasing the vehicles, machinery and equipment • Vehicles and machinery must be operated by FPSU personnel to prevent damages from customers • A maximum leasing period should be established • Maintenance of vehicles, machinery and equipment is the responsiblity of the warehouse operators • Support from the FPSU will be available if the vehicles, machinery, or equipment fails during operations at the farms • Vehicles, machinery, and equipment can only be leased if the farmer is registered with the FPSU These guidelines should be reviewed once the FPSU is operational, as operational circumstances differ from each business and the above guidelines may or may not suite the FPSU.

Logistical and mechanisation service payments will depend on: • The type of produce needed to be transported • The amount of produce to be transported • The distance to be transported • The period that the vehicle, machinery or equipment will be leased for 5.2 Training Training should consist of two parts and be completed in a 6-month period. A theoretical 3-month course followed by a practical 3-month course. These training course should focus on teaching and showing students the basic farming activities.

The following areas should be addressed in the curriculum: • General maintenance • A basic veterinarian introduction course • Livestock and poultry farming • General agricultural training • Crop farming • Soil preparation • Financial training

The training workshop within the logistics centre will be used to illustrate theoretical concepts relating to farming vehicles and equipment repairs. The workshop will also provide practical problems for farmers to solve, and to implement what they have learned. The above-mentioned topics are areas in which the developing farmers need training and should only be used as a guideline to develop an appropriate curriculum. The theoretical training will be held at the FPSU’s multi-purpose conference and training centre. Practical courses should either be conducted on a commercial farm of a mentor farmer, or on the FPSU site. The commercial farms used in this regard will be available with the mentor farmer’s owners consent. The extension officer will have the responsibility to source these mentors from commercial farmers in the area who will be willing to assist in this regard. After the training course is complete and the student has passed the course he/she will receive a certificate from the FPSU as proof of training received. This is only a proposed training program. NARYSEC and AgriSETA should be consulted to create an appropriate training program which is suitable for uneducated famers. 5.3 FPSU Integration The Agri-Park network will be developed to ensure that the registered farmers at their FPSUs and Agri-Hubs are uploaded on an integrated database connecting the FPSUs and the Agri-Hubs in each province. The database will contain farmer information, land size, commodities as well as production levels. For the database to be used effectively in government decision making, it should be updated monthly.

The integrated FPSU database will provide the following information: • Growth in production • Growth in the number of farmers in the catchment area • Changes in the access to markets The Fezile Dabi District Agri-Park will mainly be connected based on the key functions that the Agri-Hub and different FPSUs provided. The Kroonstad FPSU’s key function is to promote cattle farming in the district with the establishment of a feedlot at the FPSU site. The Agri-Hub will function as an abattoir, tannery, feed mill and maize mill. It is important to take note that the Agri-Park components will not only focus on one commodity but will support all commodities produced within their respective capture areas. The FPSU will support the Agri-Hub with quality livestock and farmer information while the Agri-Hub will provide value chain support to the farmers and FPSUs. The Agri-Hub will also provide functions such as storage, processing, and retail to the FPSUs. Figure 2 below provides a visual representation of the Fezile Dabi Agri- Park integration as presented in the Fezile Dabi District Municipality Agri-Park Master Business Plan.

Figure 2 Fezile Dabi Agri-Park Integration

6 Management Model The management model provides information regarding the proposed human resources of the FPSU. This includes a hierarchy structure along with the employment opportunities created by the FPSU. 6.1 Hierarchy of the FPSU The hierarchy defines the position of each employee according to the grade of their allocated activities. Figure 3 illustrates the hierarchy of the Kroonstad FPSU.

Figure 3 Kroonstad FPSU Hierarchy The organogram illustrating the hierarchy of all the employment positions for the Kroonstad FPSU displays the structure and relationships between the various workers from the FPSU Manager down to the general workers.

6.2 Job Descriptions

Annual Positions Responsibility Salary ▪ Staff management. ▪ Liaising with stakeholders and clients. ▪ Managing the retail space and organising auctions. FPSU Manager R240 000 ▪ Researching and writing the weekly FPSU update report. ▪ Being involved with the training of farmers. ▪ Communicating with the Agri-Hub and the RUMC. Financial and ▪ Handling accounts. R96 000 Administrative Clerk ▪ Booking equipment and machinery. ▪ Receiving walk in clients and telephone calls. Receptionist R78 000 ▪ Assisting the administration clerk with bookings. General Cleaner x 2 ▪ Cleaning the on-site offices. R54 000 ▪ Treating animals on and off the FPSU site. Salaries will be Veterinarian ▪ Researching and assisting in writing of the weekly information funded by update report. DARD. ▪ Responsible for the day-to-day veterinarian functions Animal Technician ▪ Operating the veterinary machinery and equipment. R78 000 ▪ Responsible to provide veterinarian training ▪ Liaising with farmers. Salaries will be ▪ Writing update reports. Extension Officer funded/ by ▪ Organising support services for farmers. DARD. ▪ Assisting with practical training. ▪ Taking care of the livestock within the holding pens. FPSU Supervisor ▪ Manage livestock at the feedlot R54 000 ▪ Managing the holding pens during auction. ▪ Handle livestock movements throughout the FPSU General Workers x 3 R72 000 ▪ Manage the operations of the feedlot. ▪ Ensuring that the machinery and equipment is serviced. Warehouse Operator x 2 ▪ Managing the storage facilities. R96 000 ▪ Assisting with the bookings of logistical services and leasing of machinery and equipment. ▪ The drivers will have the sole responsibility to operate the Full Time Drivers x 2 R72 000 logistical vehicles. ▪ Operating equipment and machinery. Machinery and ▪ Performing servicing duties such as fencing and other services R72 000 Equipment Operators x 3 which might be required by farmers. ▪ Performing security inspections on vehicles entering the FPSU. Security Officer x 4 ▪ Regulating traffic entering and exiting the FPSU site. R54 000 ▪ Performing perimeter checks.

7 FPSU Stakeholders The involvement of stakeholders during the operations of the Kroonstad FPSU will ensure the sustainability of the FPSU and enhance the support provided by the local smallholder farmers through the implementation of the Agri-Parks Program. The development of stakeholder relationships between the government, public sector and private sector is a key driving force behind the Agri-Park Model thinking. The stakeholders will be involved at various levels of the FPSU operations, from supplying input materials to the training of farmers and providing market support.

Table 5 Potential FPSU Stakeholders FPSU Function Stakeholder Senwes Kroonstad Feed BKB Kroonstad VKB Kroonstad Inputs Afrivet Medication South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) Tal Tec Equipment Senwes

Machines and Tal Tec Transport Farming New Holland Implements John Deere

Loans and Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Financing Financial Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) Support Land bank The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Business Training NARYSEC Management AgriSETA Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Market Support and Red Meat Producers Organisation (RPO & NERPO) Intelligence South African Meat Industry Company (SAMIC) Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (DAFF) National/ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) Provincial Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DARD) Government Support District Agri-Park Management Council (DAMC) Fezile Dabi District Municipality (FDDM) District/Local Moqhaka Local Municipality (MLM)

Key Red Meat Industry Stakeholders The red meat industry is well represented and supported by various red meat forums and organisations. These forums and representatives assist with growth and development programmes, market research, coordination and communication with government institutions. The key industry stakeholders are listed below:

The key red meat industry stakeholders are as follow: • Red Meat Industry Forum (RMIF) The RMIF represents all national red meat organisations and aims to support and facilitate a viable red meat industry. The forum also assists with establishing a regulatory environment by informing policy and legislative compliance. • Red Meat Producers Organization (RPO) The RPO assists commercial meat producers by representing the interest of its members. • National Emergent Red Meat Producers Organization (NERPO) NERPO assists with developing an enabling environment for emerging farmers by: ✓ Informing public policy and legislation ✓ Enabling access to technical support, finance and market area ✓ Encouraging black farmer participation ✓ Encouraging women participation

• South African Feedlot Association (SAFAS) SAFAS is a national organisation for all South African feedlot operators and their interests. This association provides support and resources for all relevant businesses and parties. The beef cattle industry is highly organised and hereby provides good assistance and facilitation for farmers, businesses, and beef producers. This support assists both commercial and emerging farmers in the industry to exploit the potential market opportunities and also ensure that quality products are produced and distributed to the markets.

Figure 4 Boran Beef Cattle (Source: Organic Emporium, 2017)

8 Project Implementation Plan The Project Implementation Plan is aimed at indicating the necessary actions required at the different phases of the project. It includes a guide towards the priority of actions that needs to be tended to immediately and the estimated timeframes.

The implementation plan is divided into six phases, consisting of various actions. The phases are as follow: • Phase 1: Corporate Governance • Phase 2: Appointment of a Professional Team • Phase 3: Financing • Phase 4: Construction of the FPSU • Phase 5: Acquisition of Machinery, equipment, and input materials • Phase 6: Operational The prioritisation system used to illustrate the priority of each action is as follow:

Crutial This step is crucial for the construction process and will delay the entire project if this isn’t dealt with in the required timeframe, and should be made a high priority

High This step is important and it will delay some aspects of the operation if it is not dealt with within the required timeframe

Medium This step is not as important but it can still delay some aspects of the project

Low This step is less important, it should ideally be completed within the required timeframe but can be delayed for a month

Each phase within the Project Implementation Plan will consist of a table that will divide the different components of the category into the four timeframes. These timeframes are aligned with the Xhariep District Implementation framework.

Project Implementation Timeframes: • Immediately: 0 - 6 months • Short-term: 6 – 12 months • Medium-term: 12 – 18 months • Long-term: 18 months +

8.1 Project Implementation Plan Table 6 below indicates the period for the completion of each category as stipulated in the Fezile Dabi District Implementation Framework.

Table 6 Project Implementation Timeframes

Month

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Immediate Short-term Medium-term Long-term

Legal Aspects

Business Development

Farmer Organisation

Marketing and Investment Attraction

Professional Planning

Construction

Training

Management

Monitoring and Evaluation

Logistics

(Source: Fezile Dabi District Implementation Framework, 2016)

8.2 Action Plan The action plan consists of several phases, and each phase consists out of several steps. Certain steps are more important than others and will have a higher priority. Table 7 below provides the action plan for the development of the Kroonstad FPSU.

Table 7 Kroonstad FPSU Action Plan Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Immediate Short-term Medium-term Long-term Phase 1 – Corporate governance Finalise ownership structure with cooperative. Finalise management structure. Approve operational plan. Phase 2 – Appointment of a professional team Establish a project management team. Phase 3 - Financing Finalise detailed costing. Source funding. Phase 4 – Construction of the FPSU Preparation of site (levelling and pasture planting and fencing). Establishing the infrastructure (roads, electricity, and water). Construction of buildings and facilities.

Phase 5 – Acquisition of machinery, equipment and inputs Acquiring the logistical vehicles. Acquisition of machinery and equipment. Phase 6 – Operational Stakeholder engagement. Sourcing potential farmers for the retail space. Preparing the booking systems and rates for the services provided at the FPSU. Preparing the farmer registration system and the smart card system Sourcing, appointing, and training of staff. Creating a high quality 6 months’ training program Registration of farmers. Start operation.

8.3 Recommendations The recommendations for the establishment of the Kroonstad FPSU’s development and operations are discussed within this section. These recommendations are based on aspects which will improve the services rendered, and ease the operational process. 8.3.1 Basic FPSU Recommendations Site ▪ Roads (Gravel/Paved) must be constructed on-site to ease with the accessibility to the various facilities at the FPSU site. ▪ The facilities on the site must be planned in such a manner that will leave room for expansion purposes. Construction ▪ The Reception and Administration Offices should be build first to ensure that managerial operations may commence when planned. ▪ The feedlot is deemed essential for the Agri-Park integration since this feedlot provides primary produce to the beef abattoir and the tannery at thee Parys Agri-Hub. Future Expansion ▪ Farmer needs assessments must be conducted annually. This will assist with market research and new business concepts.

Annexures Annexure A: Farmers Survey – List of Farmers

No. Farmer Contact Number ID Number

Annexure B: FPSU Functions Farmer Registration The FPSU will provide goods and services to all farmers in the catchment area. The farmers who would like to receive discounted input support will have to qualify as a developing farmer, and will have to register at the FPSU. The following information must be provided when registering at the FPSU: 1. Copy or proof of his/her South African Identification Document. 2. Contact information. 3. Proof of residential address. 4. Farm details (Name, size, GPS co-ordinates, etc..). This information must be updated quarterly. This information will enable the FPSU and Agri-Hub to monitor the farmer’s progression and determine each farmer’s specific needs and challenges. The FPSU will have to create a criterion against which the farmers will be assessed, to determine whether a farmer will qualify as a developing farmer or not.

Elements to consider with the development of this criteria: • The size of the farm. (For example, farm size smaller than 40 ha) • The income generated from farming activities. (For example, an annual income less than R200 000) • The number of workers employed on the farm. (For example, less than 20 permanant full-time employees) • The commodity amount to farm size ratio. (For example, a ratio less than 1 - Livestock units/Tonnes of crops divided by hectares of land) Note that the discretion of the management at the FPSU should play a vital role in determining whether a farmer can qualify as a developing farmer for the discounted input support. Farmer Needs-Based Discount Model To further assist developing farmers the FPSU will incorporate a needs-based discount model that will allocate credits based on the registered farmer’s production and farm size. As each commodity has specific equipment and machinery requirements, some more intensive than others, a credit allocation specific to each commodity should be developed with the following guidelines in mind: 1. Credits should be awarded specific to each commodity 2. Farmers will be allocated credits according to: i. Area of land under production. ii. Current yields. iii. Potential land to expand production. iv. Number of growing seasons per year. 3. Credits should be awarded monthly with a set expiration date. I.e. credits will be awarded on 1st January and expire on 31st December in the same year. 4. All inputs and machinery should be assigned a value relative to a monetary value where the credits will be subsidized to certain amounts. When “buying” or “hiring” from the FPSU the credits will be deducted from the farmer’s balance by swiping a Needs-Based Discount Model Card (NBDM-Card). 5. Training sessions are incentive based. Farmers who attend and complete training courses can be awarded additional credits. 6. Should the farmer deplete their credits, the farmer will still have the option to buy the inputs at normal FPSU prices.

Needs-Based Discount Model Card (NBDM Card) Farmers who register as a developing farmer will automatically receive a Needs-Based Discount Model Card, this NBDM card will be used to award farmers with credits according to their farming situation as previously mentioned. Farmers will use the card at the FPSU to spend credits by leasing equipment or buying input support. Illustrated below is an example of NBDM card design which can be used.

Figure 5 Example of The FPSU NBDM Card Market Intelligence The FPSU will keep profiles on the developing farmers which will provide information to the RUMC and FPSU to monitor the growth of developing farmers for the adjustment of the supporting input strategies according to specific challenges being faced by the farmers.

Areas to be researched and monitored: • Current needs and challenges • Livestock diseases • Crop diseases • Potential treatments for livestock and crop diseases • Trends and development amongst the local farmers • Livestock and crop prices and trends related to Moqhaka farmers • Weather patterns The above listed topics are recommended research topics, more can be added. This research component will be a collaborative effort between the FPSU manager, the extension officer, and the veterinarian. These primary researchers should constantly update the central database and provide feedback to the RUMC and Agri- Hub. It should also inform the farmers on the latest news and research concerning agriculture. Renting of Retail Space and Storage Solutions The retail space should be used as a platform for farmers to sell their produce at a fixed daily fee. To attract farmers or businesses to the FPSU retail space, it should not aim to offer market related rental prices, but rather more affordable prices that will still enable the FPSU to derive a profit.

Storage prices will entail the following: • Fixed fees for open space storage for larger items • Individual fixed daily rates per item • Fixed fee per separated storage compartment

Generally, the larger the item the more expensive the chargeable fee. An individual can hire a storage unit for an indefinite amount of time at a daily fixed fee. Prices for cold storage will depend on the amount of time the produce is stored and the amount of produce. Renting and providing storage solutions will provide additional income to subsidise other functions of the FPSU. Retail and storage renting functions can be operated through the reception and administration facility of the FPSU. Waste Management Waste management at the FPSU should consider the correct disposal of agro-chemicals as well as waste generated by demonstration plots, administrative offices, and the workshop facilities. Table 8 below describes the three different waste products that will be produced as well as the various disposal options

Table 8 Waste Management Options Waste Type Management Options Agro-chemicals such as herbicide and pesticide can pollute water sources as well as contaminate food and the surrounding environment, which is often hazardous to humans and animals. Agro-chemicals ▪ Dispose of insecure area per industry regulations ▪ Contact supplier for disposal options ▪ Ensure correct storage and management of chemicals Office waste can be disposed of as per normal methods and form part of the municipal waste management system. Office waste ▪ Ensure waste is stored securely in refuse bins or selected areas ▪ Co-ordinate waste removal with the municipal waste management department Organic waste generated from the kraal and animal handling facilities can be used Organic matter to produce compost for the FPSU to utilise as well as teach farmers to make their own compost.

Waste management is important to facilitate a clean and sustainable environment. The disposal of chemicals and other waste has an influence on the quality of the environment and may also have an impact on the quality of produce and, in effect, the health of the consumers. One-Hectare One Household Concept The one-hectare one-household concept works on the perception that if a farmer has one hectare of land he can produce a harvest large enough to sustain himself and his family, and potentially produce enough to further expand his farming operations. The FPSU will be able to support these farmers in the Kroonstad area by means of service and facilities provided by the FPSU. These farmers will also qualify for the NBDM card program, to assist with additional farming support.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

118

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Appendix G (iii): Site report for the FPSU in Kroonstad

119

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

120

SITE REPORT FOR THE FPSU IN KROONSTAD, MOQHAKA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, FEZILE DABI DISTRICT FREE STATE PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA

PREPARED FOR:

PREPARED BY:

DEPARTMENT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND LAND SMEC South Africa (Pty) Ltd REFORM 23 Second Avenue WESTDENE Contact Person: Momelezi Twantwa Bloemfontein Tel: 051 400 4200 9301 Email: [email protected]

Contact Person: Smiley Marais Tel: +27 (51) 411 8707 Email: [email protected]

~ 1 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

SMEC REPORT QUALITY ASSURANCE ISSUE DATA

Project Name: Kroonstad Famer Production Support Unit (FPSU) Report Number: 01 Revision Number 01 Site Visit Date 2017-09-06

Revision History: Date Report Status Written by Reviewed by 2017-09-11 Draft W. Mbatha S. Marais 2017-10-18 Final W. Mbatha S. Marais

Approved by: S. Marais – Functional Manager Date

~ 2 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A site visit was conducted at Kroonstad with an aim of selecting the most suitable site for the FPSU infrastructure. Three proposed different sites were visited and inspected, the main focus was to decide on the site that will be most convenient from a locality point of view, availability of bulk services and access to the site.

The proposed site, situated in the Meadows Small Holding area was observed as the most suitable and it has the necessary bulk services in the close vicinity of the site.

~ 3 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 6 2 LOCALITY ...... 6 3 FINDINGS ...... 9

3.1 SITE OVERVIEW ...... 9 3.2 EXISTING BUILDINGS ...... 9 3.3 WATER SUPPLY ...... 9 3.4 WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT ...... 10 3.5 ELECTRICITY ...... 10 3.6 TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM ...... 10 4 CONCLUSIONS ...... 11

~ 4 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

OFFICIAL ACCEPTANCE OF TASK ORDER

PROVINCE: FREE STATE PROVINCE

ASSIGNMENT NAME: AGRI PARKS

MOTIVATION FOR INCLUSION OF THIS ASSIGNMENT UNDER THE CONTRACT:

Agri-Parks are located centrally in the 5 District Municipalities in the Free State within the agricultural infrastructure.

The rationale for this assignment under the contract is to provide high level special planning, investigations and applications to assist the Department in technical and engineering advice for the development of the FPSU sites in five DM’s: from Xhariep, Mangaung, Lejweleputswa, Fezile Dabi and Thabo Mofutsanyana.

Approved by:

Compiled by Smec:

S. Marais – Functional Manager: Date

______Name Signature Date Director: RID Mr M Twantwa

~ 5 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

1 INTRODUCTION SMEC South Africa was appointed for the establishment of a technical support unit for the Rural Infrastructure Development Directorate: Free State provincial shared services center of the Department of Rural Development and Land reform (DRDLR) to provide project management, planning and high level design and cost estimation for built environment professional services and advisory services for the planning of Agri-Parks in the five Districts of the Free State Province.

SMEC South Africa strives to ensure that all its offices are representative of the demographics of their operational area. This helps to achieve our goal of utilizing our diversity to deliver appropriate designs and projects. SMEC South Africa is also conscious of its role in the development of the communities in which it operates as well as contractor development and it has developed numerous programs to facilitate this. This highlights the concept of unity and the belief that our people are at the heart of our success

Under this appointment site visit was undertook for Moqhaka Local Municipality under Fezile Dabi District Municipality site at Kroonstad to assist the DRDLR in with the development that is required for the Farmers Production Support Unit (FPSU).

This document highlight the following bulk engineering services for the KROONSTAD FPSU:  Bulk water supply;  Bulk water storage;  Stormwater Management;  Solid Waste Management;  Electrical Supply;  Access to site.

The commodities of the proposed Kroonstad FPSU are:  Red meat,  Maize

The proposed Kroonstad FPSU will consist of the following facilities:  Security offices;  Reception and admin offices & Multi-purpose training centre;  Retail space and tourism;  Storage units / facilities for mobile units (include a cold storage);  Multi-purpose animal handling facilities for training;  Multi-purpose animal handling – buildings;  Logistic centre with training and workshop;  Feed store incorporated with the storage facility  200 Cattle feedlot for animal unit and general building.

2 LOCALITY

The proposed site is located in the Free State Province, within the Moqhaka Local Municipality of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality. The geographical coordinates of the proposed site are 27°37'12.72"S, 27°12'45.77"E. The site is located within the Kroonstad, Meadows Small Holding area and is approximately 5km North West of Kroonstad CBD, two hours’ drive from the city of Johannesburg. The proposed FPSU site is easily accessible from the gravel road that joins to the R76 Provincial Road, therefore accessibility to the proposed site is not a constraint.

~ 6 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

Figure 1: Locality image of the proposed FSPU site.

~ 7 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

Figure 2: Locality image of the proposed FSPU site.

~ 8 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

3 FINDINGS

The proposed site in The Meadows Small Holding area falls under the jurisdiction of Moqhaka Local Municipality, of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality and it is currently leased from the municipality by local farmers. The size of the property, of approximately 5.2ha will be adequate for the proposed development. The property is currently zoned “Agriculture”.

3.1 Site overview The proposed site is a green field site with a relatively flat topography. The site was used for agricultural activities, such as grazing and dryland farming.

Figure 1: Proposed site

3.2 Existing Buildings There is no existing buildings on the site and some areas are fenced with a stock fence, installed by the neighbouring owners. There are other small holdings with resident buildings surrounding the proposed site.

Figure 2: Resident buildings close to proposed site. Figure 3: Stock fence

3.3 Water supply There is no water supply dedicated to the proposed FPSU site, however there is Municipal water supply pipeline that service the community in Meadows. The exact position and capacity of the bulk water supply pipeline, supplying the Meadows residents will be confirmed with the Moqhaka Local Municipality.

~ 9 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

3.4 Waste water management Currently there is no existing bulk sewer line on site, or waste water treatment system on site. We will liaise with the Municipality in this regard.

3.5 Electricity Currently there is no dedicated electricity point on the site, however, there is existing electrical supply lines close to the proposed FPSU that service the surrounding area.

Figure 4: Power lines.

3.6 Transportation system The proposed site is easily accessible through a gravel road running through the site from R76 Provincial Road. The existing roads also provide access to the surrounding small holdings.

Figure 5: Gravel road

~ 10 ~ Department of Rural Development and Land Reform KROONSTAD: FPSU Site Report

4 CONCLUSIONS

It is our opinion that from an engineering point of view that the proposed site will be suitable for the proposed FPSU development. The site is a greenfield development, therefore all the required bulk services needs to be provided. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has to be undertaken to ensure that the site complies with the Environmental Regulations for the proposed developments and the surrounding owners needs to be consulted regarding the construction and operation of a feedlot, which is part of the FPSU.

However, it is critical that before the FPSU site are confirmed and finalized that all the roll players / end users and beneficiaries of the FPSU, such as the emerging farmers and the local extension officers of the Department of Agriculture, be consulted and informed of the proposed development to ensure the sustainability and viability of the FPSU.

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Appendix H: Details of EAP and expertise

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124 CURRICULUM VITAE

Salmon (E) van Rooyen

1. Family name: van Rooyen 2. First name: Sampie 3. Date of birth: 09 May 1992 4. Nationality: South African 5. Languages: Afrikaans and English 6. Education:

Institution Degree(s) or Diploma(s) obtained

North West University Potchefstroom 2011 – BSc. Environmental and Biological Sciences and Tourism 2013 North West University Potchefstroom 2014 – Hons BSc. Environmental Sciences (Ecology: Ecological 2015 Remediation & Sustainable development)

North West University Potchefstroom 2015 – MSc BSc. Environmental Sciences (Ecological 2016 Remediation & Sustainable Management) North West University Potchefstroom 2015 Short Course at CEM (Centre for Environmental Management) in Basic Principles of Ecological Rehabilitation and Mine closure.

7. Membership of professional bodies:

• South African Council for Scientific Professions (SACNASP) ref number: 116554

8. Present position: Director and Project Manager

9. Current Responsibilities Other skills (e.g. computer literacy, etc.)

• Office Management; • Coordinating specialist assessments; • Free State Borrow Pit investigation Project Co-coordinator; • Water Licenses and Environmental Authorisations; • Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments and other environmental investigations; • Conduct Environmental Compliance and other Environmental Audits; • Conduct Ecological Specialist Assessments; • Mining right and Mining permit applications; • GIS Mapping, • Environmental Project Management for more than 40 projects.

10. Professional experience:

Date 5/ 2017 - Present Organisation Environmental Management Group Position Director

Date 8/ 2016 - 5/2017 Organisation Terra Works Environmental Position Environmental scientist/ Office Manager

Date 1/2016 - 8/2016 Organisation Bokamoso Environmental Position Environmental Specialist (Fauna and Flora), Water Use License Application Consultant, General Environmental Consultant. Responsibilities Conducting specialist Faunal and Flora assessments. Applying for Water Use Licenses. GIS Mapping. Environmental Impact Assessments.

Date 1/2015 – 11/2015 Organisation Agreenco Position Flora and Fauna Specialist Responsibilities Rehabilitation and Alien eradication on game farm in the Magaliesburg region, Rustenburg.

Date 2014 - 2015 Organisation NWU Potchefstroom Position Practical demonstrator Responsibilities Responsible for laboratory preparation for NWU and UNISA Botany practical sessions, assistant facilitator of the practical syllabus, invigilating practical exams.

Date 1/2015 – 11/2015 Organisation NWU Potchefstroom Position Practical Post-Graduate Student Assistant Responsibilities Assisting Post-Graduate students in veld surveying methods and technologies.

Date 1/2014 – 6/2014 Organisation E-Tek Consultants Position Contract, Monitoring specialist on De Beers Mining, Kimberley. Responsibilities Monitoring rehabilitated tailings on De Beers mines.

Date 2008 - 2016 Organisation Monswario Boerdery Position Assistant Farm Manager Responsibilities Farming experience of Bonsmara cattle and Meat-master sheep, as well as veld management practices.

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Appendix I: Landowners Consent Letter

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Appendix J: Approval letter from for connection to municipal water, waste and electricity

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