7 DESCRIPTION of the BASELINE ENVIRONMENT 7.1 Introduction

Home , Botrivier, Greyton, R43 (South Africa)

Chapter 7: Baseline Information

7 DESCRIPTION OF THE BASELINE ENVIRONMENT

7.1 Introduction

This section provides a description of the baseline environment in the study area, which may be affected by the proposed project. The receiving environment is described in terms of biophysical and socio-economic environmental factors, those which could potentially be directly or indirectly affected by the project, or which could themselves, affect the proposed project. This information was extracted from the various specialist studies undertaken during the EIA phase of this study as well as readily available information for the study area. Photographs used in this chapter were also sourced from specialist reports for both the EIA and scoping phase.

7.2 General Study Area

7.2.1 Regional Context

The study area is located in the extreme western portion of the region of the Western Cape traditionally known as the Overberg Rûensveld. The Overberg Rûensveld region is characterised by rolling fields cultivated along contours planted pastures and the grazing of livestock. . The natural vegetation in the region has mostly been transformed by agricultural activities however patches of natural vegetation are still found in drainage lines and on slopes too rocky or steep to cultivate.

The westernmost portion of the study area is located in a transition zone between the Rûensveld and eastern foot slopes of the Houwhoek Mountains associated with the Groenlandsberg and north of Botrivier. The Rûensveld is strongly associated with the inland Overberg Region, especially as the landform contrasts so sharply with the mountainous area located between Somerset West and Botrivier. The Rûensveld landscape is characterised by undulating terrain, consisting of broad hummocks and rounded hills (“rûens”) criss-crossed by prominent drainage lines. The Rûensveld, which stretches east towards Riviersondereind and towards Bredasdorp, has been intensively cultivated for more than two and a half centuries.

The Theewaterskloof dam is located approximately 15 km north of the northern most point of the proposed site. The nearest town to the proposed site is the small town of Botrivier, located approximately 0.5 km southwest of the western extremity of the site, but ~ 2.7 km from the closest proposed turbine . Sections of all four of the potential powerline route are located within 1.5 km of Botrivier. Sections of the potential northern route are located 0.3 km outside Botrivier. The larger and regionally more significant town of Caledon is located approximately 10 km to the east of the south- easternmost extremity of the site.

The Overberg is bisected by the N2 running east-west. The N2 provides a link between the City of Cape Town to the west, and the scenic Garden Route (Mossel Bay and beyond) to the east. The Garden Route is an established tourist route of major significance. Although not forming part of the Garden Route, tourism has

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become established as a major industry in the Overberg, often as an economic diversification strategy to agriculture.

Figure 7.1: View west from the site towards the Bot River Valley, the location of Botrivier is indicated by the arrow

Figure 7.2: View looking north from R 43 that links the N2 with Genadendal and Greyton.

7.2.2 Administrative Context

In administrative terms, the proposed site is located within the Theewaterskloof Local Municipality (TLM), which, in turn, is one of four LMs that make up the Overberg District Municipality (ODM). The administrative headquarters of the ODM are located in Bredasdorp. The remaining three LMs are comprised by the Cape Agulhas LM (Bredasdorp), Swellendam LM (Swellendam) and Overstrand LM (Hermanus).

The TLM is comprised of 12 wards. The majority of the Langhoogte WEF is located in Ward 7 with a small section located in Ward 4. Botrivier is the main town in Ward 7. .

The TLM is the largest of the four municipalities constituting the ODM, both in terms of geographical size as well as population. It covers approximately 3,248.3 km², and was estimated to have a population of 103,281 in 2007 (43.5 % of the ODM’s population) (Provincial Treasury, 2007).

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Figure 7.3: Location of the Theewaterskloof Municipality (yellow) within the Overberg District Municipality (pink). Source: Theewaterskloof 2012 SDF Revision

The most recent available data indicates that the TLM’s economy accounted for 40.6 % (R1.47 billion) of the ODM’s GDPR in 2005, and 0.98 % of that of the Province. Of the four constituent LMs in the ODM, it had the slowest recorded growth rate in the period 2004-2005 (viz. 3.4 %). Agriculture has traditionally been, and continues to be, the main provider of employment opportunities and contributor to GDPR in the Theewaterskloof. The LM’s economy is essentially built on agriculture, agri-processing and tourism (Provincial Treasury, 2007). Tourism is strongly linked to the agricultural sector, primarily with regard to the scenic landscapes associated with its main agricultural activities (e.g. picturesque orchards in the Grabouw valley and around Villiersdorp; rolling wheat and canola fields and pastoral scenes associated with small stock grazing in for instance the area between Caledon and Botrivier).

With the exception of land use associated with the fruit producing area around Grabouw in the LM’s extreme west, the settlement pattern is relatively sparse, and is mainly comprised of open space, farms and smallholdings. Of the entire municipal area (3,248.3 km² = 324,830 ha), only 3,246 ha (=1 %) is constituted by demarcated urban land use. Caledon constitutes the largest town in the study area, and is of regional significance as a service centre to the surrounding hinterland. Other urban settlements in the LM include Botrivier, Riviersonderend, Greyton, Genadendal and Villiersdorp.

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7.2.3 Road Network

The proposed Langhoogte Wind Farm site is located to the north of the N2 national road (<1.5 km at closest point). The N2 runs from Cape Town in the south-west, along the southern an eastern seaboard of South Africa, up to the Swaziland border in the north-west.

The N2 bisects the TLM from west to east, and essentially provides the central “spine” from which a number of north-south arterial, main and secondary roads branch off. Caledon, Botrivier and Grabouw are located along the N2. The section of the N2 between Riviersonderend and Tsitsikamma is referred to as the world- renowned “Garden Route” scenic drive. The N2 segment traversing the TLM functions as the primary conduit of tourism traffic between the CCT and the Garden Route. The road currently sees significant HGV traffic (~15% of total), and may therefore also be considered a heavy vehicle route. Important linkage roads in the study area include:

R43 south of Botrivier links the N2 and Botrivier to Hermanus and Kleinmond. This section of the R43 carries the bulk traffic between Cape Town and Hermanus. The R43 also serves as primary access route to Hermanus off the N2 from the east. The road currently sees significant HGV traffic (~15% of total), and may therefore be considered a heavy vehicle route (Gibb, December 2010). All four powerline route alternatives traverse the R43. R43 north provides a tarred link between the N2 in the south and Villiersorp and Breede Valley Municipality (Worcester N1) to the north. Twenty two turbines are located less than 1.5 km from the road, some are as close as approximately 150 m from the road. This section of the R43 may provide access to the WEF during construction and operational phases. Van der Stel Pass, this is a gravel road linking Botrivier in the south to the R45 west of Villiersdorp in the north. The road can be accessed from Botrivier or the R43 (via Hawston View), located to the north of the Langhoogte site. The road is currently traversed by three Eskom powerlines, one 400 kV line and two 132 kV distribution lines. This road would be traversed by the northern power line alterative. The nearest turbine is located approximately 1 km east of the road. The Helderstroom gravel road is located to the north of the WEF site. This road links the R43 to the town of Genadendal and Greyton. Both Genadendal and Greyton are important tourist towns. The Boontjieskraal Road provides an un-surfaced link between the R43 (Villiersdorp) and the N2 and can be used as a short cut to Caledon. This road is primarily used by local farmers. No access to the Langhoogte WEF site is proposed during the construction or operational phase.

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Figure 7.4: View down Hawston View Road from the R43.

R43 (HERMANUS) VAN DER STELL PASS RD R 43 (VILLIERSDORP) BOONTJIESKRAAL RD

Figure 7.5: Study Area Road Network

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7.3 Biophysical Environment

7.3.1 Geology and Soils

This information was obtained largely from the Agricultural Impact Assessment (Appendix E5).

The dominant geological formation underlying the site is the Bokkeveld site with small sections Table-Mountain group underyling the extreme western section. Weathering of the landscape east of the Bot River has exposed a succession of geological sediments of the Bokkeveld Group, dating back to the late Silurian and early Devonian. These formations consist mainly of shale, siltstone and minor thin bedded sandstone. The older, thicker bedded sandstone of the Table Mountain Group is more resistant to weathering and comprises the higher mountains of the western part of the study area. Quaternary alluvium is found on the narrow valley floor of the Bot River.

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Figure 7.6: Geology of the study area (Recompiled from the 1:250 000 scale geological map series, GeoScience, 1997).Key provided in Table 7.1 Below

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Table 7.1: Description of geological features presented in Figure 7.6 Symbol Era Group Formation Geology ~~ Quaternary Alluvium Reddish grey-weathering siltstone and Dk Devonian Klipbokkop Bokkeveld mudstone, thin sandstone beds Fine- to medium-grained micacious Dwu Devonian Wupperthal Bokkeveld sandstone and siltstone, subordinate dark grey shale Dark grey siltstone and shale with Dw Devonian Waboomberg Bokkeveld intercalated mudstone and immature sandstone Light grey, feldspathic and micacious Db Devonian Boplaas Bokkeveld sandstone; subordinate shale; siltstone Micaceous, sandy shale and mudstone; Dt Devonian Tra-Tra Bokkeveld alternating siltstone and minor sandstone Light grey, feldspathic sandstone; Dh Devonian Hex River Bokkeveld subordinate thin siltstone; gritstone and conglomerate Dark-grey fossiliferous shale, mudstone and Dv Devonian Voorstehoek Bokkeveld siltstone; thin sandstone beds Dark grey rather litic and feldspathic Dga Devonian Gamka Bokkeveld sandstone and siltstone; subordinate shale and conglomerate Black to dark grey fosilliferous shale, Dg Devonian Gydo Bokkeveld mudstone and siltstone Light grey, well bedded quartzitic / Dr Devonian Rietvlei Table Mountain feldspathic sandstone; subordinate siltstone and shale Light grey, thick bedded, coarser grained Ss Silurian Skurweberg Table Mountain sandstone, cross bedded with grit and pebble stringers and lenticles Brown-weathering, quartzitic sandstone, Sg Silurian Goudini Table Mountain thinner bedded than Ss; subordinate siltstone Dark grey, thinly laminated to massive shale, O-Sc Silurian Cedarberg Table Mountain siltstone; lenticular sandstone

The soils of the steep mountain slopes, west of the Bot River are shallow sandy gravel on rock. This soil type is restricted to the western portion of the site; no wind turbines are located in this region however the northern powerline route would traverse the area. The dominant soils on the remainder of the study area are thin bleached A-horizons on gravelley, litocutanic B-horizons (Glenrosa or Cartref soil forms) or sub-dominantly, structured shallow clayey soils (Swartland or Sterkspruit soil forms). The effective soil depth is shallow rarely more than 500 – 550 mm and the resulting water retention capacity is moderate to low. The soils are susceptible to water erosion as evident in severe gully erosion on some of the steeper slopes and along roads where poor water runoff control measures are in place.

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Figure 7.7: Land types of the study area (ARC: USCW) Wind turbine positions indicated by white circle. Description of land types given in Table 7.2

Table 7.2: Area weighted mean depth, clay content and resulting water retention capacity of the Land types of the Langhoogte site. Ave Clay% Clay% Land Type Description Depth WRC2 A-hor1 B-hor1 mm GLENROSA AND/OR MISPAH FORMS (Lime Fa207 550 20-25 15 ML rare or absent in the entire landscape) GLENROSA AND/OR MISPAH FORMS (Lime Fb110 rare or absent in upland soils but generally 530 20 5-10 ML – L present in low-lying soils) Ib113 ROCK AREAS WITH MISCELLANEOUS SOILS 100 <5 <5 L

1 Average clay content calculated from memoir data on an area weighted basis 2 Water Retention Capacity derived from average depth and clay content

7.3.2 Topography

This information was obtained from the Agricultural Impact Assessment (Appendix E5).

The study area is located in a part of the Breede River Valley known as Breedekloof characterised by high mountain ranges to both the west (Elandskloof and Limietberge) and the east (Waaihoekberge).

The topography of the site varies from the steep slopes of the Houwhoek mountains in the west to the typically undulating hills of the Rûens in the central and eastern parts. The steepest slopes are located in the western portion of the site. The highest sections of the site are 830 m amsl the valley bottom is located between 200 and 285 m amsl.

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Figure 7.8: Topography of the site

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Figure 7.9 Photograph showing the Topography within the Study Area The lowest section of the site is the southern section through which the N2 freeway runs. The N2 is surrounded by high ground towards the north and south. Figure 7.10 and Figure 7.11 illustrate the topography north and south of the N2.

Figure 7.10: View north from the N2

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Figure 7.11: View south from the N2

7.3.3 Groundwater

This information was obtained from the Agricultural Impact Assessment (Appendix E5) and the Aquatic and Wetland Impact Assessment (Appendix E4).

The aquifers of the Bokkeveld Group are of poor quality and provide low groundwater yields of moderately to highly saline water. The poor quality groundwater is unusable for irrigation or as a drinking source for livestock.

7.3.4 Hydrology

The study area is situated in quaternary catchments G40E and G40F, two sub- catchments of the catchment area of the Bot River. The western part of the study area (west of the R43) drains directly into the Bot River, while the portion east of the R43 drains into the Swart River, a tributary of the Bot River. Both the Swart and Bot Rivers are indicated as perennial rivers, but the Swart River is expected to be more intermittent, while the other streams and drainage lines in the study area are ephemeral.

(a) Dams and Ponds

A total of 56 dams occur in the study area. All the dams are small and used as a drinking source for livestock with the exception of one irrigation dam to the west of the Bot River. The irrigation dam situated on the Remainder of Farm 791, Caledon Road has an estimated storage capacity of approximately 50,000 m3. The dam provides an estimates 70,000 m3 per annum for irrigation. There is not irrigation scheme or other source of surface water available to farms in the study area with the exception of the rural livestock water scheme. The Theeswaterskloof Dam provides water for livestock through a rural livestock and potable water scheme.

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Figure 7.12: An example of a pond occurring on site

(b) Rivers

All the rivers on site are classified as ‘low’ conservation importance with the exception of one stretch of river that was rated as ‘high’ conservation value. This section of river is highlighted in red in Figure 7.13. Rivers were rated as ‘low’ conservation importance due to lack of or transformation of riparian vegetation, low riparian habitat diversity and erosion.

The stretch of river rated as ‘high’ conservation value possess relatively intact riparian vegetation which has been mapped by the Overberg CBA map as a terrestrial CBA so adding conservation importance to the stretch. This high importance status is limited to a short section of river as further upstream the river passes through an agricultural area with no indigenous riparian vegetation.

A number of wetlands occur on the site. The predominant wetland type is floodplain wetlands which are present along the Bot River. A small number of small hill slope seep wetlands occur on site. Approximately half of the wetlands on site have been assessed as being of high conservation importance, whilst the remaining halves were rated as moderate conservation importance. A single wetland was rated as low importance.

The Bot River floodplain wetland was classified by NFEPA as a FEPA wetland throughout its course along the western edge of the main site to the north of the N2 freeway. This section of wetland was rated to be of high conservation importance. The Bot River floodplain to the south of the N2 was classified by NFEPA as a non- priority wetland. This wetland was observed to be moderately degraded due to alien plant invasion and agricultural activities. There are still small remnant patches of indigenous vegetation within the floodplain of the Bot River and so has been mapped by the Overberg CBA as moderate conservation importance.

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Figure 7.13: Aquatic ecosystems on site

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7.3.5 Soils and Agricultural Potential

The proposed WEF is located in the Overberg region. This region along with the Swartland forms the main small grain producing area of the winter rainfall region of South Africa. The area is also the main malt barley growing region of the country, a major supplier of the beer industry.

Three different homogenous farming areas (HFA) have been demarcated by the Department of Agriculture, Western Cape in the vicinity of the study area. These are: Rûens HFA- dominated by small grain production in combination with sheep, cattle (mostly beef) and/or localised ostrich farming. A crop rotation system of barley, wheat, canola, oats, grain crops and lucerne for grazing is mostly followed, while smaller areas of fodder crops will also be planted. Bot River HFA- this area includes the valley floor and undulating hill slopes along the Bot River. Some water is available for the irrigation of crops, wine grapes, deciduous fruit production and planted pastures Mountains HFA – this area covers the steep slopes of the Houwhoek Mountains. This area does not have any significant agricultural potential due to steep slopes predominantly covered by fynbos, of low grazing value.

The area under investigation is covered by three land types namely:

Fa207 (Shallow soils, usually non-calcareous); Fb110 (Shallow soils, may be calcareous); and Ib113 (Shallow soils with much rock).

Class I Class II Class III Class IV Class V Class VI Class VII Class VIII Study area

Figure 7.14: Agriculture potential of the site.

The arable potential of the land is shown in Figure 7.14. The majority of the WEF is situated in land of marginal arable potential and non-arable land of low to moderate potential grazing land.

According to the DAFF classification the land on site is classified as follows:

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I Marginal potential agricultural land suitable for wildlife, forestry, light to intensive grazing and light cultivation VI Non-arable, low to moderate potential grazing land suitable for wildlife, forestry and light to moderate grazing VIII Wilderness suitable for wildlife

The classification of agricultural potential of the site is that of DAFF classification intended to be used at a scale of 1:250 000 and is therefore is often too generalised to inform decisions regarding the potential impact of a proposed wind energy facility on the agricultural potential of a specific site.

(a) Irrigated Cultivation

The use of irrigated cultivation in the Langhoogte area is limited due to the limited availability of water. Irrigation on site is limited to small fields on the alluvial flood plain of the Bot River that can be irrigated from the irrigation dam or the Bot River while it is still flowing.

Figure 7.15: Irrigated pastures along Bot River

(b) Dry Land Cultivation

Dry land or rain fed cultivation is the practise of growing crops without irrigation, so is fully dependent of rainfall to supply the water requirement of the crop. Wheat is the dominant cash crop in the Western Cape On the Langhoogte site, when the water requirement of a summer crop is at the highest, the rainfall is only ±113 mm. The volume of water available is not sufficient to grow any cash crops and also constrains the provision of good summer grazing for livestock. The production of cash crop is limited to the cool rainy season when a rainfall of 276 mm can be expected (Boontjieskraal station).

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The wheat potential map of the Western Cape (Figure 7.16) illustrates that the eastern part of the study area can be regarded as a moderately – high to high wheat (winter cereal) area.

Figure 7.16: Extract from the wheat potential map of the Western Cape, as derived from 10 years average Modis NDVI data (M. Wallace, Department of Agriculture).

Analysis of the water supply and demand for the area has shown a water deficit for the site. At Langhoogte, during March and April the effective rainfall will contribute towards raising the water content in the soil. During May (the planting month), June, July, August and the first part of September, the crop requirement is supplied from stored soil moisture and effective rainfall, but from then until harvest the plant will experience moderate to significant water stress, as its demand exceeds the supply from rainfall and the stored soil moisture has already been depleted.

(d) Planted Pastures

The crop rotation system of the Rûens often includes dry land lucerne, as the portion of summer rainfall increases towards the east. The water requirement of lucerne far exceeds the water supplied through rainfall but the crop tolerates dry periods and responds rapidly after good rains. This provides good summer grazing and in some years can even produce a lucerne crop that can be cut and baled. Due to the lower portion of summer rainfall in the western part of the Rûens, fewer plantings of lucerne are found, but other legume crops for fodder or direct grazing such as lupins or clover/medic mixtures are an important component of the crop rotation system.

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(e) Livestock Farming

Livestock, both cattle (beef/dairy) and sheep farming, is an important agricultural activity in the traditional small grain regions of the Western Cape, whilst sheep predominates at Langhoogte. It is accommodated in the crop rotation system with barley, wheat or oats as cash crops and oats or triticale used for silage and fodder. Lucerne, medics or lupins – are often also incorporated in the crop rotation. A general ratio of 45:50:5 between cash crops, pastures and fallow land is mostly used in the Rûens (Thousand point surveys – Department of Agriculture, Elsenburg1). A grazing capacity of 0.85 to 1.72 ewes/ha without supplementary feeding and 2.0 to 2.5 ewes/ha with supplementary feeding on the stubble lands is proposed by Van Heerden & Ferreira (2008), while a grazing capacity between 4 – 6 ewes per hectare on the lucerne pastures is proposed (Elsenburg). Due to the low summer rainfall the availability of fodder during late summer and autumn is very low and supplementary feeding is normally provided and often limits the feasible stock numbers on a farm during this period.

(f) Summary of Agricultural Potential

Irrigation crops do not significantly contribute to overall agricultural production in the study area. Irrigation does however offer some opportunity for perennial crops or planted pastures (±6 ha). The winter rainfall is however sufficient for above average yields of winter cereal crops. The rotation of fodder crops and planted pasture in the study area offers good livestock farming opportunities and therefore the general agricultural potential of the site is regarded as medium to medium- high when dryland cereal is produced in combination with livestock.

7.3.6 Climate

The study area is ±20 km from the nearest coastline (Walker Bay) and situated at the “entrance” to an inland valley surrounded by mountain ranges. The resulting climate is marginally continental with orographic rain induced by the mountains. The region experiences rainfall through the year, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the winter months (May-August). The climate of the area is characterised by a rainfall pattern of all-year-round rainfall, with a definite peak in the winter months. Average long-term annual rainfall is between 384 mm in the lower areas, rising to around 534 mm in the higher areas.

Figure 7.17: Rainfall and evaporation as recorded at the Boontjieskraal weather station

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The warmest temperatures occur during January and February with average maximums of 28.6°C and 28.9°C respectively. Maximums usually ranges from 35°C to 40°C., the temperature only rarely exceed 40°C. The coldest temperatures are experienced during the winter months. July and August have average minimum temperatures of 5.5°C and 5.9°C. Highest wind speeds occur during the summer months from October to March with an average wind speed of 7.5 km/h. This information was obtained from the Agricultural Impact Study (Appendix E5).

7.3.7 Regional Vegetation

This information was obtained from the Ecology Impact Study (Appendix E3). The site is located within the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) which is recognised as one of the principal centres of diversity and endemism in Africa. As shown in Figure 7.18, most of the site occurs within Western Rûens Shale Renosterveld a vegetation type classified as Critically Endangered.

Figure 7.18: Regional vegetation types for the proposed Langhoogte Wind Farm study area, according to the SANBI vegetation map of South Africa (Mucina & Rutherford 2006)

The following vegetation types occur on site: Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos in the western parts of the WEF and crossed by the northern powerline route option. Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos is classified as Least Threatened; Western Coastal Shale Band Vegetation is found in bands within the Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos. Western Coastal Shale Band Vegetation classified as Least Threatned Is located in the extreme western portion of the WEF site and crossed by the northern powerline route option.

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Rüens Silcrete Renosterveld classified as Critically Endangered is found in the south west region of the site This vegetation type is restricted to the area traversed by the four powerline route option; and Cape Lowlands Freshwater Wetlands classified as Least Threatened is found in the extreme south section of the site. This vegetation type is only crossed by the southern route powerline option 3.

There is very little natural vegetation remaining on site, the majority of vegetation on site has been transformed through agricultural activities. Figure 7.19 illustrates areas of natural vegetation on site. The fynbos in the western portion of the site is relatively intact within the mountain area. Renosterveld has been largely transformed due to agricultural activities, however patches are present in the central to north-western part of the site. Patches of renosterveld and thicket are scattered across the site as a mosaic with thicket in steep-sided valleys in fire protected areas and renosterveld on the upper slopes. Small patches of renosterveld tend to be largely degraded; large patches contain more intact vegetation. Riparian vegetation is found in the western portion of the site associated with the Bot River. The riparian zone is heavily infested with alien shrubs and the floodplain areas have been cultivated. Wetland vegetation is also present in some valley bottoms with gently sloping topography, steeper valleys are filled with thicket vegetation. Natural vegetation in smaller valleys have largely been lost due to cultivation, erosion and in some cases invasion by alien woody plants. Larger valley bottoms contain relatively intact wetland marsh vegetation.

7.3.8 Land Cover

The majority of the study site consists of cultivated land; most of the natural vegetation has been transformed by agricultural activities. There are patches of natural vegetation spread across the site. There are significant patches of vegetation on slopes overlooking steeper valleys as well as in the mountains to the west of Botrivier. Natural vegetation is also found in drainage lines between cultivated fields and to a lesser extent in small patches scattered throughout the site. Secondary fynbos has developed on some fields on site but most of the site consists of active cultivation. The significance of the high degree of cultivation of the site is that there is little natural vegetation remaining which could support indigenous fauna. Some species of conservation concern, especially birds including the Blue Crane South Africa’s National Bird, may make use of cultivated fields for foraging, but this is generally the exception for most other animal species.

Table 7.3: Areas per land use category. Land use category Area (ha) % of Total Cultivated fields (with contour banks) 2138 55% Natural veld & Drainage areas 949 24% Cultivated fields (with contour banks) 668 17% Old fields 34 0.9% Roads & roads reserves 33 0.8% Farmsteads and un-cultivated land 26 0.7% Irrigated fields 23 0.6% Earth dams, dam areas & ponds 21 0.5% Fall out land 17 0.4% Plantations (Eucalyptus) 10 0.2% Perennial crops (Fruit orchards) 1 <0.1% Total 3920

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Figure 7.19: Natural vegetation types in the study area

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7.3.9 Conservation Priorities for the Site

This section is informed by the Ecology Specialist Study (see Appendix E3). The Theewaterskloof Municipality’s Spatial Development Framework identified the following features of potential conservation importance (Figure 7.20):

Critically Endangered Ecosystem (Western Rûens Shale Renosterveld is mapped as occurring on site – however, according to the Theewaterskloof Municipality's Spatial Development Framework, apparently none remains on site) Renosterveld Priority Clusters (central parts of site , although the amount of untransformed vegetation on site is of a much smaller distribution than that shown for Renosterveld Priority Clusters) Wetlands (not mapped in the Theewaterskloof Municipality's Spatial Development Framework but do occur on site) River corridors (Bot River is mapped as a “main tributary”, other streams are mapped as “minor streams”).

The SDF presents an indication of features of high conservation importance and provides guidelines for the management of such features.

Figure 7.20: Conservation priorities of the proposed Langhoogte Wind Farm, as indicated in the Theewaterskloof Municipality's Spatial Development Framework.

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(a) Flora of Conservation Importance on Site

A total of 295 plant species of conservation concern have previously been recorded in the SANBI grids in which the site is located. This includes 34 species listed as Critically Endangered, three of which are possibly Extinct, 92 species listed as Endangered, 95 species listed as Vulnerable, 4 species listed in an unspecified threat category, 60 species listed as Near Threatened, 2 species listed as Critically Rare, and 8 species listed as Declining. The high number of species of conservation importance indicates that the remaining habitat on site and sensitivity of all remaining habitat on site and in the surrounding areas. A number of protected trees have geographical distributions which include the site namely: Curtisia dentata; Ocotea bullata; Pittosporum viridiflorum; Podocarpus elongatus; Podocarpus latifolius; and Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme (white milkwood).

No individuals of any species of protected tree were identified during site visits. Except for some scrubby thicket, in which Sideroxylon inerme subsp. inerme could potentially occur, there is no habitat on site in the path of the proposed development in which protected trees could potentially occur.

(b) Faunal Species of Conservation Importance

A total of 25 species of conservation concern have distributions that are known to include the site. These species are listed in the tables below. Based on habitat requirements on site only seven species were identified as likely to occur on site. These species are:

The Water Rat (Near Threatened) is found over a good deal of Africa, from Sierra Leone in West Africa to central Kenya in East Africa and from most countries south of this. It is found in most of the moist parts of South Africa. It occurs in reedbeds and among semi-aquatic grasses and is dependent on open water. It is terrestrial and semi-aquatic. If it occurred on site, it would probably be limited to areas close to the Bot River system where open water occurs, or to farm dams where natural vegetation occurs around the fringe. It was not seen on site, but there is a possibility that it occurs there.

Montane Marsh Frog (Near Threatened) is confined to small streams, marshy areas and seepage zones in mountain fynbos at altitudes of 200 to 1800 m. It only occurs in a small part of the Western Cape, including the Kogelberg, Hottentots Holland Mountains, Groenlandberge and Houhoekberge. If it occurred on site, it would be found in the western part of the site associated with the Houhoekberge. These areas will not be affected by the proposed project.

Rose’s / Cape Mountain Toad (Vulnerable) is restricted to undisturbed montane fynbos, usually being confined to high mountain areas. It only occurs in a small part of the Western Cape, including the Kogelberg, Hottentots Holland Mountains, Groenlandberge and Houhoekberge. If it occurred on site, it would be found in the western part of the site associated with the Houhoekberge. These areas will not be affected by the proposed project.

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The Dwarf Crag Lizard (Vulnerable) is a rock specialist and requires rock crevices for shelter. It is found in areas of the south-western Cape that have frequent mists and fog and is only found in the Hottentot’s Holland Mountains. It has been recorded in the grid in which the site is located, but only in the mountain areas. If it occurred on site, it would be found in the western part of the site associated with the Houhoekberge. These areas will not be affected by the proposed project.

The Yellow-bellied House Snake (Near Threatened) is found in termite mounds and under stones in fynbos scrub, arid savannah and grassland. It is endemic to South Africa, but is found widely distributed in the more mesic southern and eastern parts of the country. It is a secretive and nocturnal snake that is considered to be rare. In the Western Cape, it has mostly only been recorded in mountainous areas. It is considered possible that it occurs on site within areas of natural vegetation. It would not occur in cultivated fields or other transformed areas, which is where most of the infrastructure is proposed to be located.

In summary, the Montane Marsh Frog, Rose’s Mountain Toad and the Dwarf Crag Lizard will not occur on site. It is considered that there is a small probability of the Water Rat and Yellow-bellied House Snake occurring in habitats on site. Both species are widespread and the site does not constitute important habitat for either species. It is considered highly unlikely that activities on site associated with construction and/or operation of the wind energy facility would have any significant effect on either species.

Avifauna and Bats are discussed under their own sections.

Ecological corridors are longitudinal areas of habitat which allow the movement of fauna between habitats. Valley bottom wetlands on site were identified as features on site which may act as an important corridor for movement and dispersal of flora and fauna.

7.3.10 Avifauna in the Study Area

This is informed by the Avifauna Impact Study (Appendix E1).

Bird Habitat in the Study Area The site is located in close proximity to the Eastern False Bay Mountains Important Bird Area (IBA) and Overberg Wheatbelt IBA (refer to Figure 7.21). The habitat of the study area is similar to that of the Overberg IBA which comprises a mosaic of wheat, barley and canola fields interspersed with pastures.

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Figure 7.21 Location of the Study Area Relative to the Overberg Wheatbelt IBA (green shaded area).

The vegetation on site is a mixture of natural vegetation, agricultural crops and pastures used for grazing of livestock.

(i) Natural Vegetation

Areas of natural vegetation are located on steeper slopes, along ridges and in drainage lines. The natural vegetation is classified as fynbos and consists of low scrub. Fynbos has a high diversity of plant species but does not supports relatively few bird species. Priority bird species were identified from the Bird Life South Africa (BLSA) list of priority species for wind farms (Retief et al. 2012).

The priority species that are associated with fynbos in this study area, are the Black Harrier Circus maurus, Denham’s Bustard Neotis denhami, Grey Winged Falcon Scleroptila africanus, Black-Shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus and Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus . Other priority species that sometimes use this habitat are Secretarybirds Sagittarius sepentarius, Black-Chested Snake-Eagle Circaetus pectoralis, Martial Eagles Polemaetus bellicosus and Steppe Buzzard Buteo vulpinus

(ii) Agriculture

The majority of the natural vegetation in the study area has been transformed for agriculture. Several species have in fact adapted well to this transformation. One such species, which is highly relevant to this study, is the Blue Crane Anthropoides paradiseus. This species has thrived on the grain lands and pastures in the southern and western Cape. Blue cranes favour agricultural areas above natural vegetation. At times the Overberg can contain nearly 20% of the Blue Cranes global population. Other birds species using the cereal crops and pasture areas include Denham’s Bustard, Secretarybirds and possible some karroid birds such as the endemic Karoo Korhaan Eupodoitis vigorsii. The endemic Agulhas Long-billed Lark Certhilauda

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brevirostris may also occur in its preferred habitat of ploughed fields. Agricultural land can provide foraging locations for example the Steppe Buzzards is attracted to harvested agricultural land where rodent prey is more accessible.

Figure 7.22: Blue Cranes congregating at a sheep feeding trough

(iii) Stands of Alien Trees

Alien trees on site mainly Eucalyptus are potential habitat for Black-shouldered Kite, Jackal Buzzard, Spotted Eagle-Owl, Steppe Buzzard, Black Sparrowhawk, Rufous- chested Sparrowhawk, Forest Buzzard, African Fish-Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer and African Harrier-Hawk Polyboroides typus.

(iv) Dams

Dams provide foraging and roosting habitat for priority species. There are several man made dams on site which may attract African Fish-Eagle, White Stork, Blue Crane and African Marsh-Harrier.

(v) Farm yards

Spotted Eagle Owl may use farm yards and buildings as foraging or roosting locations. Other priority species Black Sparrowhawk and Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk may also hunt small birds in farm yards

(vi) Slopes

The survey are contains a few fynbos covered slopes in the western section. Soaring species may use particular topographic features for lift. Soaring species in particular use slopes for lift. Steeper the slopes provide larger updrafts than gentle slopes. Gentle slopes pose a larger risk than steep slopes to soaring species as they result in birds flying lower and therefore increasing the risk of collision with turbines.

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(b) Avifauna in the Study Area

It is estimated that at least 197 bird species could potentially occur at the site. Of the birds potentially occurring at the site, 28 are classified as priority species for wind farm sites (Retief et al 2012).

Table 7.3 shows the list of the priority species that, based on the habitat identified during the reconnaissance site visit undertaken by the avifaunal specialist, are likely to occur in the study area. The table also shows species recorded on site during site monitoring programme (shown in italics).

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Alien trees

Scrub

Agriculture

Dams

Farm yards

Figure 7.23: Bird habitat in the study area

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Table 7.4: Priority avifauna species identified Likelihood of Scientific Common Name Status occurrence in the Habitat requirements * Name study area Grassland, old lands, open woodland. Sagittarius Secretarybird NT, Ra High Most likely to be encountered in fynbos serpentarius and pastures. Grey Winged Scleroptila Recorded Scrub Francolin africanus Large permanent wetlands with dense African Marsh- reed beds. Sometimes forages over Circus ranivorus VU, Ra Low Harrier smaller wetlands, grassland and (rarely) fynbos. Highest expected densities in remnant Black Harrier Circus maurus NT, Ra High patches of fynbos. A wide range of habitats, but cliffs (or tall buildings) are a prerequisite for breeding. Immature birds are most likely to be Falco Peregrine Falcon NT, Ra Medium encountered foraging over farm land. peregrinus More likely to be encountered in the western part of the study area adjoining the Eastern False Bay Mountains IBA. Generally prefers open habitat, but Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus NT, Ra Medium exploits a wide range of habitats. Black-Shouldered Elanus Most likely be found in scrub and strands Recorded Kite caeruleus of alien trees. Cereal crops, old lands, pastures, Anthropoides wetlands, dams for roosting. Recorded in Blue Crane VU High paradiseus pastures and wheat fields in the study area during the site visit. Denham’s Cereal crops, fynbos and pastures. Neotis denhami VU High Bustard Recorded during site visit. Fallow and recently ploughed fields, Agulhas Long- Certhilauda NT, SS High sparse shrubland dominated by billed Lark brevirostris renosterveld. AEWA White Stork Ciconia ciconia High Agricultural lands and dams.

Wide variety of habitats. Ridges important for slope soaring. More likely to Booted Eagle Aquila pennatus Ra Medium be encountered in the western part of the study area adjoining the Eastern False Bay Mountains. Black-Chested Circaetus Scrub, strands of alien trees and Recorded Snake-Eagle pectoralis agriculture African Fish- Haliaeetus Ra Medium Mostly farm dams. Eagle vocifer

Polemaetus Martial Eagle VU Recorded Mostly scrub bellicosus

Aquila Verreaux’s Eagle Recorded Mostly scrub verreauxii Agricultural areas and fynbos. Ridges Steppe Buzzard Buteo vulpinus Ra High important for slope soaring/kiting. Buteo Wide variety of habitats. Ridges Jackal Buzzard Ra High rufofuscus important for slope soaring/kiting.

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Black Accipiter Ra Medium Clumps of alien trees. Sparrowhawk melanoleucus African Harrier- Polyboroides Alien plantations and in natural Ra Low Hawk typus vegetation along drainage lines.

Rufous-chested Accipiter Ra Low Clumps of alien trees. Sparrowhawk rufiventris

Spotted Eagle- Wide range of habitats, but mostly in Bubo africanus Ra High Owl fynbos and in alien stands of trees.

The priority species potentially occurring at the site can be broadly classified in four groupings namely large terrestrial species, soaring species, small birds and nocturnal species (see Appendix E1):

Large terrestrial species: Medium to large birds that spend most of the time foraging on the ground. They do not fly often and then generally short distances at low to medium altitude, usually powered flight. Some species undertake longer distance flights at higher altitudes, when commuting between foraging and roosting areas. At the wind farm site, cranes, bustards, francolins and korhaans are included in this category. Soaring species: Species that spend a significant time on the wing in a variety of flight modes including soaring, kiting, hovering and gliding at medium to high altitudes. At the wind farm site, these are mostly raptors and storks. Blue Crane soaring flights are also included in this category. Small birds: At the wind farms site these are mainly several species of passerines. These species generally spend most of the time on the ground or calling from perches. Nocturnal species: The site may potentially contain at least three species of owl. Flight is usually direct, powered flight interspersed with short glides

7.3.11 Bats in the Study Area

This information is obtained from the Bat Assessment (Appendix E2).

(a) Bat Habitat in the Study Area

The study area proposed for the Langhoogte Wind Farm development covers a large area of which the land use is primarily farming of crops and livestock. These farmed areas dominate the site with the absolute westerly tip of the farm being less developed as it is found at the foot of the mountain. This natural western portion of the site will easily support bat life. However agriculture does not necessarily pose a negative impact on resident bat populations. The construction of farm buildings and farm dams provide easily accessible roosting and foraging areas. The cultivated lands attract agricultural insect pests upon which insectivorous bats thrive. Bats have been found to show preference for foraging in livestock pastures. The pasture conditions and livestock faeces attract insects such that bat prey is plentiful in pastures.

The site consists of three vegetation units: Western Ruens Shale Renosterveld, Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos and Western Coastal Shale band of vegetation.

Bats require three factors to be prevalent in an area. The dependence on these factors varies between species.

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(i) Roosting Sites

Roosting sites used by bats can be differentiated into manmade and natural features. Manmade features include farm houses, barns, sheds, road culverts and mine adits which all provide easily accessible roosting sites. Natural roosting sites include caves, rock faces, areas of exfoliating rocks and clumps of large wooded plants. Most roosting sites are provided by farm buildings and clumps of larger woody plants. The mountainous terrain directly west of the site seems to provide suitable roosting sites in the form of rock faces, rock crevices, exfoliating rock, possible caves and caverns.

(ii) Foraging Locations

Clumped vegetation and riparian habitat have been identified as possible foraging areas for bats. Bats also utilize water sources including farm dams, pools and drainage lines as foraging habitat. There are several open water sources on site. These foraging habitats are quite evenly spread across the entire site such that the foraging potential of the site is not concentrated in any particular area.

(iii) Water Sources

Open water sources, both manmade farm dams or natural streams and wetlands, are important sources of drinking water and provide habitat that hosts insect prey. Several large open water sources, such as farm dams, drainage lines and pools, are available for use by bats.

Table 7.5: The roosting and foraging potential of the vegetation units present on the Langhoogte site (This table serves as an indicator of the likelihood of use of each vegetation unit by bats. The potential was graded based on observation and findings on site) Vegetation Roosting Foraging Comments Unit Potential Potential Western Ruens Low Medium - High Natural roosting sites are minimal; however farm Shale Fynbos buildings and planted trees provide roosting sites. (FRs11) Natural and cultivated vegetation have high foraging potential. Bats were detected within this unit. Kogelberg Medium - High Medium The mountainous terrain provides roosting space such Sandstone as rock crevices, caverns and exfoliating rock. Cape Fynbos (FFs11) Thickets provide foraging habitat. A bat was detected near the boundary of this unit. Western Low Medium Natural vegetation does not support roosting Coastal Shale vegetation. The linear flat feature may provide a Band foraging corridor from mountain top. Vegetation

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Foraging Habitat Roosting sites Site boundary Figure 7.24: Possible roosting and foraging sites found across the study area

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(b) Bats In the Study Area

Bat species potentially occurring on the study are were identified based on the presence of roosting sites and foraging sites and compared to literature preferences. Bat species occurring on site were recorded during a site visit from 12th to 14th of July.

Twenty two species of bat could potentially be found on site. Of these species one species Lesueur’s Wing-gland bat Cistugo lesueuri is classified as vulnerable and three species Cape Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus capensis, Swinny’s Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus swinnyi and Natal Long-Fingered Bat Miniopterus natalensis are classified as near threatened.

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Table 7.6: Species Likely to Occur on the Site – Priority species shown in bold. Priority species are those of conservation importance and those at most risk from impact with turbines. Probability of Foraging Habits (indicative Likely Risk of Impact Species Common Conservation Possible Roosting Sites Occurrence of possible foraging sites in (Sowler & Stoffberg, name Name status Occupied in Study Area (%) study area) 2012) Wahlberg’s Feeds on fruit, nectar, pollen Epomophorus Roosts associated with forest and epauletted fruit 10 – 20 Least Concern and flowers. Fruit is farmed Medium - High wahlbergi forest-edge habitats bat on site Roosts gregariously in caves. No known caves in the immediate Rousettus Egyptian 20 – 30 Fruit consumer. Fruit is not Least Concern vicinity, however large surrounding Medium - High aegyptiacus rousette farmed on site mountain ranges may provide caves Cape Rhinolophus Near horseshoe 40 - 50 Roosts in caves and mine adits Clutter forager Low capensis Threatened bat Rhinolophus Geoffroy’s 10 - 20 Least Concern Roosts in caves and mine adits Clutter forager Low clivosus horseshoe bat Rhinolophus Darling’s 10 - 20 Least Concern Roosts in caves and mine adits Clutter forager Low darlingi horseshoe bat Roosts in caves and mine adits, where it forms colonies of up to 300 Rhinolophus Bushveld individuals 0 - 10 Least Concern Clutter forager Low simulator horseshoe bat Also roosts in small caverns in rocky outcrops and culverts under the road Swinny’s Rhinolophus Near horseshoe 10 - 20 Roosts in caves and mine adits Clutter forager Low swinnyi Threatened bat Roosts on rock faces, tree trunks Taphozous Mauritian tomb 60 - 70 Least Concern and walls, where it rests its belly on Open-air forager High mauritianus bat the surface of the roost Caves, aardvark burrows, culverts Nycteris Egyptian slit- 40 - 50 Least Concern under roads, and trunks of large Clutter forager Low thebaica faced bat trees Sauromys Roberts’s flat- Roosts in narrow cracks and under 40 - 50 Least Concern Open-air forager High petrophilus headed bat slabs of exfoliating rock Caves, rock crevices, under Tadarida Egyptian free- 90 – 100 exfoliating rocks, in hollow trees, Least Concern Open-air forager High aegyptiaca tailed bat Confirmed and behind the bark of dead trees Miniopterus Lesser long- 40 - 50 Least Concern Cave dependent Clutter-edge forager Medium – High

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fraterculus fingered bat Miniopterus Natal long- 90 – 100 Near Cave dependent, but forage Clutter-edge forager Medium - High natalensis fingered bat Confirmed Threatened abroad Cistugo Lesueur’s Roosts in rock crevices, usually 40 - 50 Vulnerable Clutter-edge forager Low lesueuri wing-gland bat near water Eptesicus Long-tailed 60 - 70 Least Concern Roosts in caves and rock crevices Clutter-edge forager Medium hottentotus serotine Hypsugo Anchieta’s Clutter-edge and clutter 40 - 50 Least Concern Its inferred habitat is riparian forest Medium anchietae pipistrelle forager Preferred roosts are unknown but Kerivoula Damara woolly 10 - 20 Least Concern tends to be associated with Clutter forager Low argentata bat woodlands Kerivoula Lesser woolly 10 - 20 Least Concern Associated with riparian forest Clutter forager Low lanosa bat Temmink’s Roosts gregariously in caves, and Myotis tricolor Least Concern Clutter-edge forager Medium - High myotis 80 - 90 sometimes culverts Roosts under the bark of trees, Neoromicia 90 – 100 at the base of aloe leaves and Cape serotine Least Concern Clutter-edge forager Medium - High capensis Confirmed under roofs of houses. Very common bat Roost in narrow cracks in Pipistrellus Dusky Least Concern exfoliating granitic rock and under Unknown Medium hesperidus pipistrelle 50 - 60 the loose bark of dead trees Scotophilus Yellow-bellied Roosts in holes in trees and roofs 50 - 60 Least Concern Clutter-edge forager Medium - High dinganii house bat of houses

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7.4 Socio-Economic Environment

7.4.1 Study Area and Land-Use Settlement Patterns

(a) Western Rûensveld Area

The proposed WEF is situated in the extreme westernmost portion of the important agricultural area known as the Overberg Rûensveld. The westernmost portion of the study area is located in the transition zone between the Rûensveld and the eastern foot slopes of the Houwhoek Mountains.

The Rûensveld is strongly associated with the inland Overberg Region, especially as the landform contrasts so sharply with the mountainous area located between Somerset West and Botrivier. The Rûensveld landscape is characterised by undulating terrain, consisting of broad hummocks and rounded hills (“rûens”) criss- crossed by prominent drainage lines. The Rûensveld, which stretches as far east as Riviersondereind, and as far south as Bredasdorp, has been intensively cultivated for more than two and a half centuries. The natural vegetation is essentially limited to drainage lines and remnant patches associated with slopes too rocky or steep to cultivate. Rolling fields cultivated along contours, and planted pastures dotted by grazing flocks of sheep in an expansive landscape against the backdrop of distant mountains characterise the sense of place in the study area. The Rûensveld is world- renowned as Blue crane habitat.

Figure 7.25: Portion of the proposed on-site substation on Langhoogte farm. Botrivier and the Groenlandsberg in the distant background.

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The western portion of the site and area located immediately to the west of the site (along van der Stel Pass Road from Botrivier) are located on the eastern foot slopes of the prominent Houwhoek Mountains. The terrain rises sharply towards the west. Farmsteads adjacent to the site along the van der Stel pass road are essentially located along the relatively narrow ribbon of the Bot River Valley that runs in a north south direction parallel to the Houwhoek Mountains. Views onto the site are generally restricted by the terrain. Land use is comprised of mixed farming, mainly consisting of the cultivation of cereals, canola and fodder crops, and stock farming, mainly consisting of sheep. Interviewees have indicated that ownership patterns are largely stable, and that commercial farming remains the primary form of land use on farms in the area. Some farms also have also established tourist accommodation facilities.

Farmsteads in this area are distributed fairly evenly across the landscape, generally at intervals of >5 km, but in some cases (e.g. those along the van der Stel Pass Road) they are clustered in relatively close proximity. Large trees are typically limited to erven associated with farmsteads – often consisting of sizeable plantings of Eucalyptus spp. which form windbreaks and woodlots.

Farmsteads are typically inhabited by an owner, direct relatives, or farm manager. Labourer’s housing is traditionally located in close proximity to farmsteads. Agricultural activities are not very labour intensive, and labourer tenure is therefore generally restricted to around 5 households per farming operation, or less.

Figure 7.26: Farm yards and labourer’s houses on Bruinklip (Klipfontein Farm). Note Eucalyptus windbreaks and woodlot

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(b) Caledon

Caledon is located ~10 km to the south-east of the proposed wind farm site (and nearest turbine on the site, turbine 13). The town is located along the N2, ~67 km from Somerset West and ~116 km from the City of Cape Town City Bowl area.

Caledon was established on the southern foot slopes of the prominent Klein Swartberg Mountain in 1810. The therapeutic hot water springs (currently on the grounds of the Caledon Casino Spa) drew visitors to the location well before the town itself was established. As with many other towns in the Western Cape, the town’s establishment resulted from the need to establish a church in order to serve the surrounding agricultural community.

As evidenced by the prominent grain silos located in the south-west of the town, Caledon is a working town and is the largest town and primary urban node within the TLM. The town’s role within the TLM is that of administrative seat and agricultural service centre. The town’s central location also enables it to function as a vital transport and economic link between the primary and secondary agricultural sectors, nearby towns, and rural settlements within the municipal area. The 2004 Growth Potential of Towns in the Western Cape study described the town’s economic base as “agricultural service centre”. The Southern Associated Maltsters, founded in 1978 and based in Caledon, is the South African beer industry's largest malt producer.

Figure 7.27: View East across looking towards the mountain around Caledon.

Unlike Botrivier and the fruit-growing areas of the western TLM (Grabouw, Elgin, Villiersdorp), Caledon has not witnessed a significant ingress of economically- motivated migration from the Eastern Cape. The 2010 Draft Theewaterskloof SDF notes that Caledon has the largest commonage of all the urban nodes in TLM area, a strategic asset that can be developed to address housing needs and also to stimulate economic growth within the TLM.

The small town of Botrivier is located ~2.6 km to the south-west of the nearest turbine on the site, turbine #17. The town is located ~20 km west of Caledon, and ~38 km south east of Somerset West.

The town is located just to the west of the fertile Bot River valley. The Botrivier area was traditionally famous for its dairy produce (the town’s name is derived from the

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Afrikaans word for butter), but viticulture and fruit and limited nut crops have been established in recent years. The town is bisected by the Cape Town-Caledon railway line (goods only).

Figure 7.28: View South-East across Botrivier from the Railway Line, New France in the Foreground

Botrivier is essentially a residential town, with settlement is on either side of the Cape Town-Caledon railway line. A relatively large formal low income area, as well as the New France informal area, is located on the north-western margin of the town. Business and services opportunities are limited, and essentially located in one node off Main road. This node includes the hotel, a fuel station and an agricultural/ hardware outlet. An OK Mini-Market is also located in Botrivier. Tourism facilities in the town itself are limited to the hotel and one or two more restaurants. The Botrivier wine route traverses the town. The well-known Wildekrans Estate is located just to the south-east of the town.

Due to the lack of local employment opportunities many of the residents commute as far as Hermanus and the Cape Town for work. The town is not serviced by any public transport services.

As evidenced by the sizeable New France informal settlement north of the historic town, Botrivier’s strategic location (in relation to Cape Town metropolitan and Overstrand area) and proximity to perceived employment opportunities associated with orchards and vineyards, has attracted relatively great numbers of economic migrants from the Eastern Cape. While the Elgin/ Grabouw and Villiersdorp areas continue to be the main focus areas for economically motivated in-migration into the TWK, the Botrivier area may also be considered a lower income growth node. The town and immediate hinterland however provides few employment opportunities outside the agricultural sector.

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The 2004 Growth Potential of Towns in the Western Cape study described the town’s economic base as “agricultural service centre”. Relatively large tracts of undeveloped land occur within the town’s urban edge. Botrivier has been identified as the primary location for the establishment of a light industrial node in the TWK municipal area (TWK IDP 2010/2011).\

7.4.2 Social Environment

(a) Demographics

The proposed site is located in a rural area, traditionally used for sheep farming and wheat cultivation. The nearest town to the proposed site is the small town of Botrivier, while the larger and regionally more significant town of Caledon is located approximately 10 km to the east of the easternmost extremity of the site. The information below focuses on these two towns.

According to Census data, the total population of Botrivier was 4,052, and that of Caledon 10,647 in 2001. The majority of inhabitants in both towns were Coloured (79% and 68% respectively). In absolute terms, the White population group was the second most numerous in the study area, although it was of less relative importance than the Black group in the smaller town of Botrivier. Afrikaans is traditionally spoken by the Coloured and White communities as first language, and is the dominant language in both towns.

Table 7.7: Population of Botrivier and Caledon Botrivier Caledon Population Group Number % Number % Black African 564 14 648 6 Coloured 3 202 79 7 204 68 Indian or Asian 9 <1 33 <1 White 277 7 2 762 26 Total 4 052 100 10 647 100 Source: Census 2001

The relatively low figure for the Black group (6%) of the Caledon bears witness to the fact that, unlike the fruit-growing areas in the western TWK, Caledon had witnessed relatively little Black in-migration by 2001. Information from interviewees indicates that this situation has remained largely unchanged, and also applies to the agricultural area around Caledon. In contrast, the figure for Botrivier was 14%. Interviewees indicated that this fraction, as well as the absolute number of people in the town, is likely to have increased significantly since 2001.

(b) Education Levels

As indicated Table 7.8, according to Census data, approximately 23.3% of the population of Botrivier aged 15 and older was estimated to be functionally illiterate/ innumerate. The relevant percentage for Caledon was somewhat lower, namely 18.4%. Given the strong correlation between education and skills levels, it may be assumed that a significant portion of the study area’s working age population have only sufficient skills for elementary jobs.

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Table 7.8: Botrivier and Caledon Education Levels (population 15 years and older) Description Botrivier % Caledon % No schooling 4.8 3.6 Some primary 18.5 14.8 [% functional illiteracy/ innumeracy]* [23.3%] [18.4%] Complete primary 12 8.3 Some secondary 43.2 42.3 Std 10/Grade 12 16 23.2 Higher 5.5 7.8 Source: Census 2001

The employment statistics presented in Table 7.9 indicate that in 2001 50% and 52.5% of the Botrivier and Caledon were employed respectively. Botrivier had a significantly higher unemployment rate (viz. 17.5%) than Caledon (10%). The recorded unemployment rate of Botrivier was comparable with the Provincial average for 2001 (viz. 17%), while that for Caledon more than twice as low. As a result of rationalisation in the provincial agricultural sector during the past decade, and in the light of the current global economic downturn, current unemployment rates are likely to be higher. Based on the 2007 Community Survey, the TWK estimated 21%, 14% and 2% of the TWK Black African, Coloured and White groups respectively, to be unemployed (TWK IDP 2010/11).

Table 7.9: Botrivier and Caledon Employment Levels (15 – 64 year age group) Description Botrivier % Caledon % Employed† 50 52.5 Unemployed 17.5 10 Not Economically Active‡ 32.5 37.5 Source: Census 2001

(d) Household Income

Census data for 2001, presented in Table 7.10 indicated that a significant portion of households in the relevant towns were living below the R1 600/ month minimum subsistence level. In this regard, the breadwinners of 45.9% of Botrivier households, and 34.9% of Caledon households had no access to formal income, or earned less than R1 600/ month.

* In the South African context, having obtained a primary qualification (i.e. having successfully passed Grade 7) is generally held as the absolute minimum requirement for functional literacy/ numeracy. The National Department of Education’s ABET (Adult Basic Education and Training) programme provides education and training up to the equivalent of Grade 9. In this more onerous definition, Grade 9 is required as the minimum qualification for having obtained a basic education (www.abet.co.za).

† Census 2001 official definition of an unemployed person: “A person between the ages of 15 and 65 with responses as follows: ‘No, did not have work’; ‘Could not find work’; ‘Have taken active steps to find employment’; ‘Could start within one week, if offered work’.” (www.statssa.gov.za). ‡ The term “not economically active“ refers to people of working age not actively participating in the economy, such as early retirees, students, the disabled and home-makers.

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Table 7.10: Household Income (by head of household)

Income per month Caledon % Botrivier % No formal income 10.4 7.8 R 1 – R 400 1.9 2.8 R 401 – R 800 14.2 9.9 R 801 - R 1 600 19.4 14.4 [% households below minimum subsistence level] [45.9] [34.9] R1 601 - R 3 200 25.9 21.9 R 3 201 – R 6 400 18.3 20.6 R 6 401 – R 12 800 7.5 14.6 R 12 801 – R 25 600 1.6 6 R 25 601 and higher 0.8 2 Source: Census 2001

(e) Sectoral Employment

Table 7.10 provides an overview of proportional employment per economic sector by head of household for the relevant towns. As indicated in the table, the profiles for Botrivier and Caledon are very dissimilar. Specifically, employment in the primary agricultural sector was the most significant for Botrivier (27.4%), followed by wholesale and retail trade (26.3%). Together, more than 50% of all household heads were employed in either of the two sectors. Manufacturing (14.9%) and Service- related activities (14.8%) constituted other significant sectors. This profile is closely related to Botrivier’s rural setting, its function as agricultural service centre, and the processing of agricultural produce. Caledon’s function as seat of the TLM is reflected by the primacy of Service-related activities (31.3%). Retail and wholesale trade (20.9%) also accounted for a significant proportion of employment. Surprisingly, primary agriculture (6.8%) and manufacturing (10.2%) played relatively minor roles. Nevertheless, the importance of the agricultural sector to the town’s local economy should not be underestimated. In this regard the town, as the regional service centre, caters for the retail and services needs of its rural hinterland.

Table 7.11: Sectoral Contribution to Employment Description Botrivier % Caledon %

Agriculture, hunting, 27.4 6.8 forestry and fishing Mining and quarrying 0.3 0.2 Manufacturing 14.9 7.3 Electricity, gas and water supply 0.8 1.7 Construction 8 10.2 Wholesale and retail trade 26.3 20.9 Transport. Storage and 2.6 3.6 communication Fin., real estate and bus. Services 2.9 9 Community, social and personal 14.8 31.3 services Other and not adequately defined - - Private households§ 2.1 9.1 Source: Derived from Census 2001

§ This category mainly comprises domestic workers and gardeners.

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(f) Tourism

On a regional level, the key touristic significance of the study area (Caledon and surrounding western Rûensveld area) currently relates to its strategic location with regard to major tourism destinations within the Western Cape. The segment of the N2 between Botrivier and Caledon provides a “spine” which links the CCT, the Garden Route area, the settlements of Greyton and Genadendal located in the northern TLM area, the Overstrand seaboard area, as well as the eastern seaboard of the Agulhas Peninsula (Struisbaai, Arniston) with one another. In addition, the R43 (which essentially bisects the proposed site) provides the most direct link between the Overberg and Boland regions. The Boland region is well-established as an important tourism destination. The area traversed by the relevant segment of the N2 consists of rolling agricultural land to towards both the north and south. This segment of the N2 has been identified as a scenic drive within the 2010 Draft TLM SDF. The well- established Dassiesfontein farm stall/ shop/ restaurant complex, located along the N2 ~1 km north of the Dassiesfontein Wind Farm development area, currently provides permanent employment to ~30 people, mainly from the Caledon and Botrivier communities.

Dedicated tourism flows to the study area itself are currently relatively modest, but the local tourism sector appears to be growing. Relatively short travelling time from the Cape Town metropole makes the area ideally suited for the urbanised, weekend- getaway market. The location of the area “beyond the mountain” provides an effective and attractive perception of the visitor entering a new landscape, and leaving “the city” behind. Agro-tourism, outdoor activities (mountain biking), and conservation (hikes, etc) predominate in the rural study area. The towns of Genadendal and Greyton (located ~22.5 km (linear) and ~26 km (linear) from the proposed site and turbines, respectively, are further major draw cards. Greyton has become established as an important tourist destination in the area, specifically for the middle to up-market segment of the market. The town has a number of good restaurants and caters for both hotel/guesthouse and self-catering accommodation options. A number of people who live in and around Cape Town also have holiday homes in Greyton.

Established attractions in the study area include spring wildflowers, blue cranes, expansive, undeveloped agricultural landscapes, the Caledon Nature Reserve and wildflower garden (located on the Klein Swartberg north of the N2) and the Caledon Casino and hot springs. The Caledon Tourism Association’s marketing strategy is based on the concept of “scenic meanders”, i.e. encouraging relatively short trips to a number of different tourist destinations in the broader Caledon area per visit. The place identity is one of expansive views across an agricultural landscape dominated by rolling hills. Existing service industrial and industrial infrastructure is largely absorbed by the landscape. The envisaged upgrade to tarred surface of a number of roads in the broader Caledon area would feed into the marketing strategy of “scenic meanders”, and there is great potential to establish a number of circular routes in the area and even inland of Overberg sub region. These include the Helderstroom Road (which would link the R43 to Genadendal via the scenic Helderstroom valley) and of the eastern aspect of the R406 (Greyton to N2 outside Riviersondereind. Tarring of the Helderstroom Road is likely to result in an increase in tourist flows into Genadendal and Greyton and the potential development of associated supportive infrastructure.

Farm-based tourism development seems to be a growing trend in the study area. The Caledon Tourism Association currently has 42 members, of which 24 consist of guest

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farms (Koegelenberg – pers. comm). Guest cottages, catering mainly for the Cape Town weekend-getaway market, appear to be the norm on a number of farms in the area. Total tourist numbers are limited at present, but growing. Agro-tourism and recreational activities (cycling) appear to be the main draw card.

With regard to Caledon, it is estimated that ~60% of the visitor-flow is associated with conference facilities. Botrivier has limited tourism facilities, but forms part of the Botrivier Wine Route which also includes the important Wildekrans Estate south of the town. The gradual development of the scenic Van der Stel Pass Road (wine tasting centres, restaurants, conservation, etc) appears to be an established trend, if modest at present.

7.4.3 Economic Environment

The following information was obtained from the Economic Impact Assessment (Appendix E9).

The Theeswaterskloof LM IDP describes key economic activities in the municipal area as follows

(a) Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing

Agriculture is the dominant sector in the local economy; agricultural production generates 36.5% of the local economy. The Theeswaterskloof economy is dominated by agriculture both primary production as well as construction.

The agricultural sector nationally has been a stagnant performer at around 3% below the annual GDP growth. The Theeswaterskloof agricultural sector has out-performed the national agricultural sector growth despite the slump in the forestry, pome, grain and wine markets globally. This is a testament to the business skill and entrepreneurial acumen in the area.

(b) Manufacturing

Both nationally and in Theewaterskloof, manufacturing has been in decline. Manufacturing in the area is largely agri-processing (90% of turnover). Beverages account for 41% of the manufacturing sector with well-known fruit juice brands and Appletiser located in the Grabouw-Elgin Valley and SAB’s largest malt processing plant in the southern hemisphere located in Caledon. A further 37% of the area’s manufacturing is classified as processed and canned fruit and vegetables. This sector, together with the fresh fruit industry, accounts for the bulk of the exports out of the area.

Despite the slow growth in the sector, opportunities exist for niche market value- adding, as demonstrated by the success of value-adding businesses like the bottled fruit syrups produced by the Feast-De-Renaissance business. There are opportunities to identify other similar high-end niche markets to add value to the raw product. Clothing is a new sector entering the market, taking advantage of the availability of labour, easy access to Cape Town and cheap light-industrial premises in the area.

The construction sector has grown steadily, notching over 6% growth between 2004 and 2005. Growth in the sector has also out-performed the national GDP averages, both in the local economy and the adjacent Overstrand and Cape Town economies.

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Traditionally, Theewaterskloof has been known for its artisan pool drawn from both Genadendal and Grabouw. The presence of the Overberg Training College which provides construction-related training, the established carpentry business in the area and the ready pool of labour make it an ideal site for construction businesses to locate and from which to source workers. Interestingly, the bulk of the construction activity in the area, using 2006 data, is in the electrical contracting arena, suggesting that there is a large amount of electrical sub-contracting based in the area.

(d) Wholesale and Retail; Catering and Accommodation

The wholesale & retail trade, catering & accommodation sector has been one of the fastest growing sectors in the area. Most of this growth has been concentrated around the local tourism industry. The retail sector is very dependent on the agricultural sector, in so far as much of the local money in circulation is earned from this sector. While growth locally has generally mirrored national growth (with some peaks and troughs), the current resident volumes combined with the lack of serviced land available for development are major constraints on the development of the potential in this sector. However, the anticipated upturn in the agricultural economy and Theewaterskloof’s proximity to Cape Town and Overstrand (both of which are nearing capacity), presents an opportunity. This, combined with the Municipality’s plans to expand its bulk infrastructure, creates potential to expand the rates base and create the conditions for sector growth.

(e) Transport and Communication

The transport sector has also been a growth driver. Again this can be attributed to the general upturn in the sector and to the location of several freight transport businesses and Gaffley’s public transport in the area

(f) Financial and Business Services

The business services sector has been a steady growth driver in the local economy and deserves to be encouraged. The growth can largely be attributed to the upturn in the property market and the large agricultural service industry. There is, however, some talk of elements of this relocating to Stellenbosch due to challenges related to attracting managers into the area and in particular housing them. In both Grabouw and Caledon, there is a shortage of middle income housing stock. This has driven house prices up and is a disincentive to locating in the area. This sector requires a critical mass to consolidate and, if secured, is likely to continue to drive growth in the area.

(g) Tourism

There is also a growing tourism sector captured in the wholesale & retail trade, catering & accommodation sector, which contributed R 203,6 million or 13,9% of the local economy.

7.5 Heritage Resources

This information was obtained from the Heritage Impact Study and Paleontological Study (Appendix E8).

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It was the attraction of trade with the Khoekhoen which prompted the establishment of a VOC outpost at Compagnies Drift (the present Beaumont Wine Estate) on the Botrivier from at least 1731. Of importance on the farm is a historic water mill which has been recently restored.

The village of Botrivier is situated at the base of the Houwhoek Pass, at the entrance to the Overberg and has its origins on the historic farm of Compagnies Drift. The farm was situated on the drift across the Botrivier used by all the early travellers travelling into the Overberg. Josias de Kock of Compagnies Drift was famous for providing accommodation for travellers from 1778. Many stayed overnight at the farm, eventually resulting in the development of the village. The Botrivier Hotel was built in the early 1890s with additions added later. The railway line was constructed through the town in 1902, further increasing the need for accommodation for travellers. There are some buildings in the town which date to the early 20th century but according to du Toit the majority date after 1940. Thus while the village has historic roots, much of the development has taken place within the last 60 years. It does not feature in Fransen’s description of the old towns and villages of the Cape.

The area is considered to have aesthetic value and high tourism potential as it is situated on the N2. The R43 to Villiersdorp is recognised as a scenic route. The site is located approximately 25 km south west of the historic Moravian mission settlement of Genadendal and 32km from Greyton, a popular small village located in the foothills of the Riviersonderend Mountains. The historic farmhouse of Boontjieskraal is located approximately 3.5 km to the south east of the site.

7.5.1 Paleontology

The site is largely underlain by Early to Middle Devonian marine sediments of the Bokkeveld Groupe, with a small section of Table Mountain Group rocks in the extreme west. Table Mountain group rocks typically contain very sparse fossils. The Bokkeveld group were probably once highly floriferous. However the fossil content has been largely destroyed by intense tectonic deformation and deep chemical weathering during the Late Cretaceous to Tertiary period. These Palaeozoic rocks are largely covered by superficial sediment which are poorly fossiliferous to unfossilferous. A variety of Paleogene (Early Tertiary) to Quaternary duricrusts are present in the broader study region but these are also largely unfossiliferous.

7.5.2 Pre-Colonial and Colonial Archaeology

Middle Stone Age and Later Stone Age artefacts made of silcrete and quartz were found on rocky hill behind the De Vlei farmstead. A lower grindstone was recovered from a pile of rocks on the edge of a field and a stone marker was also found on site. It is expected that the study area will contain more scattered Stone Age archaeological material dating from the Early, Middle and Late Stone Age periods. Large sections of the site are cultivated it is likely that Stone Age material would be found in these areas if the crops were to be removed. The survey by Webley & Halkett of the Caledon Wind Farm site, which adjoins the proposed Langhoogte Wind Farm site, identified at least nine scatters of Early Stone Age (ESA) material on ploughed lands. The stone tools included quartzite flakes, flaked cobbles, cores including discoid cores and some crude bifaces (handaxes). In his survey on the farms Klipheuwel and Dassiesfontein to the south of the N2, Hart also identified some scatters of ESA material. Kaplan has also undertaken surveys around the Botrivier area and found some ESA artefacts.

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Figure 7.29: Silcrete artefacts from site 003 (left), silcrete and quartz artefacts and a single piece of refine earthenware from site 004 (right)

Figure 7.30: A lower grindstone found in a pile of rocks at the edge of a field on- site 002 (left), a stone marker on from site 001 (right)

(a) Built Environment

There are a number of farmhouses and graveyards on the site and on adjacent farms.

Boontjieskraal

The historic farmstead of Boontjieskraal is considered to be of potential Grade 2 significance by Heritage Western Cape. Boontjieskraal was a stock post established in the days of Simon van der Stel. The original buildings have been modified but the farmstead is still famous on account of its meandering ringmuur and is an important place-marker in this scenic strip of the N2. Boontjieskraal is located 3.5 km south- east of the nearest turbine outside the study area.

Compaignes Drift

The historic farmstead of Compaignes Drift now known as Beaumont Estates is of Grade 3A significance. This farmstead dates back to 1731. The longhouse was later converted into a H design Longhouse. The property contains a well-preserved water mill, there is also a miller’s house and nearby cottage which is described as being of “great age”. Compaignes Drift is located outside the study area approximately 2.6 km from the closest turbine.

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Langhoogte and Windheuwel graveyards

There are farm graveyards on both Langhoogte and Windheuwel near the farm buildings. Both the graveyards are considered to be of Grade 1 or high significance

Figure 7.31:Farm house at Windheuwel (left), graveyard on Windheuwel (right)

Figure 7.32: Langhoogte farmhouse (left), Langhoogte graveyard (right)

(b) Cultural Landscape

International literature indicates that visual impact and changes to the sense of place or setting are among the most contentious issues that the wind energy industry has had to face in terms of finding social acceptability. The proliferation of wind energy facilities in South Africa, in the absence of heritage guidelines or policy, is a cause of concern in terms of cumulative impacts. Wind energy facilities which require significant amounts of landscape can pose significant impacts in terms of loss of iconic vistas, and landscape character change, especially in the Western Cape Province where the identity of the region is strongly linked to its spectacular landscape character.

The cultural landscape associated with the study area can be described as rural and agricultural. In the Overstrand Heritage Landscape Group, this landscape falls into a category termed “Rural Farmland Landscape”. The wheat fields which characterise the area between Botrivier and Caledon are the product of 300 years of land transformation. The farm of Botrivier was one of the earliest farms in the Overberg to obtain a license to sow wheat dating back to 1708. Merino sheep were being grazed on the farm of Boontjieskraal by 1803. The area is considered to have aesthetic value with high tourism potential, being situated on the N2. It also straddles the scenic route (R43) to Villiersdorp.

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The site area is visually defined by the highest rounded landforms of the ridge line along which the R43 is aligned north of the junction with the N2. The agricultural character and sense of place are mainly derived from the pattern of the contoured fields and the extensive all round views to the mountains. Visual change in the area is not apparent as the area continues with the specialised task of producing wheat and canola.

The site’s exposed position provides distant views toward the surrounding mountains and southward down the Botrivier valley to the sea near Kleinmond. The site is visible from the lower reaches of the Houwhoek pass eastbound over Botrivier at a distance of approximately 7km and the first view westbound on the N2 is NW from the road before it reaches the high point before the roadside shop of Dassieskraal.

7.6 Noise Climate

This information was obtained from the Noise Impact Study (Appendix E7). The proposed site of the wind farm is a typical agricultural area with undulated landscape and ridges.

The current noise sources contributing to ambient noise level include wind, road traffic, domestic type and farming activity noise. The R43 provincial road separates the proposed site into two areas, the east and west. The traffic noise along this road creates the prevailing ambient noise level in these areas. The N2 National Road runs to the south of the proposed site, intersecting the south eastern portion of the site. Prevailing ambient noise levels on site are shown in Table 7.12.

Table 7.12: Prevailing ambient noise levels in the study area Prevailing ambient noise level Prevailing ambient noise level Section of the study area daytime – dBA night time - dBA Western section 49.4 34.8 NSA’s along van der Stel Pass 44.5 33.5 Northern section 36.6 38.3 Along R43 road 61.1 48.9 NSA’s along R43 Road 42.6 36.4 Eastern section 49.3 35.3 N2 Road 62.2 56.9 NSA’s along N2 Road 52.3 43.4 Botrivier 51.3 43.5

Ambient noise levels on site also vary according to wind speed, as shown in the table below. Table 7.13: Noise level of the wind at different wind speeds Wind speed – m/s Measured noise level of the wind noise - dBA 1.0 40.3 2.1 40.6 3.1 42.7 4.2 46.9 5.1 48.9 6.9 58.9 7.7 67.6 15.2 70.8

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The eastern boundary is 10km west of the town of Caledon and the western boundary 500m north east of the town of Botrivier at is closest point. Various farms are located within and around the proposed site. Residential dwellings are located on these farms, making those sections of the farms where there is a house located, a noise sensitive area. There are however no dense residential areas located on the site, the closest dense residential area being Botrivier located 500m south west of the site’s eastern boundary.

7.7 Visual Environment

This information was obtained from the Visual Impact Assessment Study (Appendix E6).

The site is visually exposed due to the elevated landform and the lack of large trees on the rounded landforms. The intensive farming of wheat and canola accentuates the rolling landforms and promotes the extensive views to distant mountains that are visible in all directions.

7.7.1 Topography

The site is situated in a wide valley on an ancient terrace that is a remnant of the of a raised valley landform of the Cape Folded Belt that has eroded northwards and inland from the coast. The Bot River and tributaries is the main drainage line that flows southward to the sea between the villages of Kleinmond and Hawston. This river separates the higher relief of the Houwhoek Mountains to the west of Botrivier and the lower and more rolling landform on which the site is located to the east.

The valley is bounded on the northern side by the Riviersonderend mountain range (which rises to a maximum of around 1,600 m above sea level) and in the south by the Babilonstoring range (which rises to a maximum of around 1,100 m above sea level). The site of the proposed wind energy farm rises to a maximum of 309 m above sea level (at the site of the test mast). Beyond the Babilonstoring Mountains, to the south, lies the narrow coastal plain with the settlements of Hawston (to the east of the Botrivier) and Kleinmond (to the west of the Botrivier). The Botrivier Valley allows uninterrupted views of the sea from the site, although the distance from the site to the sea is approximately 23 km.

The region is commonly referred to as the Rûens (also referred to as the Ruggens or Ruggensveld). This Afrikaans name, meaning 'ridges', refers to undulating landscape between the Riviersonderend Mountains in the north to the coast. In the east, the Rûens is defined by Swellendam in the north and Bredasdorp in the south. The western boundary of the Rûens is the Houwhoek Mountains traversed by the Houwhoek Pass and the southern boundary in the study area is the Babilonstoring Mountains. This region has no sharp topography or very steep slopes (e.g. cliffs), and is characterised by gently undulating ridges and valleys, wide open valleys and rounded ridges. The general altitude of the Rûens region in the study area varies from 100 m to 300 m above sea level.

7.7.2 Vegetation and Land Use Character

The Rûens is intensively farmed. The vast majority of the landscape, with the exception of the mountains forming the boundaries of the Rûens is characterised by agricultural lands. A number of farmsteads are scattered between the agricultural

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lands with plantings of Eucaplytus trees planted close to the houses and grouped close to small farm dams.

There is little natural vegetation left in the region. The agricultural lands form a patchwork across the landscape. The only areas of natural vegetation, characterised by dark coloured Renosterveld, are situated on the relatively steep slopes and in the valleys. The area is naturally treeless the only indigenous trees being small specimens mainly of Buddleia saligna (“White Olive”) and Olea europaea ssp. africana (“Wild Olive”) in the steep sided valleys, where they are protected from fire.. The largest trees in the region are planted alien species Bluegum (Eucalyptus), however these are not planted densely or in extensive wind breaks, and therefore do not offer much visual screening.

Wheat and canola are the typical crops grown in the area and the fields are used for grazing sheep after harvesting in the summer months. The area has a relatively low winter rainfall and thus takes on a dry and dusty appearance during the summer. The area is not irrigated so all agriculture is dependent on rainfall .During the winter rainfall season and spring the area is transformed into a green landscape of wheat fields, with patches of canola.

Figure 7.33: Typical mosaic of habitats on site. Fynbos scrub, cereal crops and pastures

7.7.3 Landscape Character

The landscape character is rural agriculture. The land use consists largely of intensively farmed monoculture crops of canola and wheat. A number of farmsteads are located on or near the top of landforms or on the foot slopes near streams in the valley. The undulating landforms, the wide Botrivier valley which offer views of the ocean and the nearby detail of homesteads, and fynbos clad ravines and distant mountain ranges make the area particularly scenic.

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7.7.4 Visual Quality

The landscape of the area in which the site is located is considered to have high visual quality. This is due to the varied topography of rounded landforms surrounded in the distance by rugged mountains and to the south the wide Bot River Valley that provides distant views to the ocean. The ordered patterns of the wheat and canola fields add another texture to the setting and seasonal colour variation. Key views are shown in the figures below.

7.7.5 Visibility of the Site

The site will be highly visible from the N2 eastbound due to its elevated position and the slope to the west towards Botrivier. When travelling west bound on the N2 the site is visible when the road reaches a crest of landform approximately 3 km east of the junction with the R43 to Villiersdorp and Theeswaterskloof Dam. The site is highly visible from the R43 for approximately 5 km north of the junction with the N2 and the road is aligned on the ridge line. The first view of the site from the Houwhoek Pass is near the end of the pass as the view is over the village of Botrivier onto the westward sloping ground beyond. This view is approximately 5 km to the nearest wind turbine and 8km to the ridge line on which the R43 is located.

7.7.6 Sense of Place

The sense of place is characterised by the openness of the landscape, by this it is meant that the views in all directions are extensive to nearby and distant mountains. The Botrivier Valley widens as it nears the sea between Kleinmond and Hawston on the right and left bank respectively and provides a riverine context of the views from the higher ground the north. The Sense of Place is clearly rural in atmosphere and the visual interest comprises of distant views from the site due to its elevation.

7.7.7 Heritage

As noted in the heritage section above, the general historic context of the study area is significant. There are some historic buildings on adjoining properties, such as Boontjieskraal to the east, and Compagnies Drift (now Beaumont Wine Estate). Boontjieskraal is not a declared heritage site but is considered to be of Grade 2 significance by Heritage Western Cape. Compaignes Drift is of Grade 3A significance It is known that this area has been subject to European settlement since the late 17th century and a Dutch East India Company outpost was established just to the east of Caledon around 1710. Most of the farms in this general area were established before the mid-18th century, suggesting that it is highly likely that historic structures may be found in the study area or within the viewshed of the proposed development.

The cultural landscape associated with the study area can be described as rural and agricultural. The rolling wheat fields that characterise the area between Botrivier and Caledon are the product of 300 years of land transformation. The wheat fields are adjacent to some key scenic routes, particularly certain sections of the N2 and the R43. The R43 to the historic Riviersonderend Valley, Villiersdorp and Genandendal is particularly sensitive. Further, any developments alongside the N2 at Botrivier will be visible from the Houwhoek Pass, which may result in a significant visual intrusion on motorists.

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Figure 7.34: View from the test mast site looking south towards the coast

Figure 7.35: View from the western portion of the site looking south

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Figure 7.36: View looking north from the test mast position

Figure 7.37: View from R43 Villiersdorp Road looking south towards the site. Note: The height of the test mast (60 m) has been drawn in to provide an indication of scale. The wind turbines will be significantly higher than the test mast.

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Figure 7.38: View from the N2 looking west towards the site. Note: The height of the test mast (60m) has been drawn in to provide an indication of scale.

Figure 7.39: View from Houwhoek Pass along the N2 looking east towards the site. Note: The height of the test mast (60m) has been drawn in to provide an indication of scale.

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11 Department of Agriculture: Western Cape. Agricultural land use statistics based on thousand point surveys

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