Ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY WETLAND REPORT | 2017

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY WETLAND REPORT | 2017

LOCAL ACTION FOR BIODIVERSITY (LAB): WETLANDS SOUTH AFRICA

Biodiversity for Life South African National Biodiversity Institute Full Program Title: Local Action for Biodiversity: Wetland Management in a Changing Climate Sponsoring USAID Office: USAID/Southern Africa Cooperative Agreement Number: AID-674-A-14-00014 Contractor: ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability – Africa Secretariat Date of Publication: May 2017 Author: R. Fisher

DISCLAIMER: The author’s views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development or the United States Government. Foreword

Ekurhuleni boasts a rich natural and cultural heritage vast numbers are seeing a rapid decline and countless which serves as potential for tourism development, animals and plants have been brought to the verge most notably is the network of wetlands, pans and of extinction. Wetlands are also increasingly unable to open space which serve to house a large diversity perform the ecosystem services so vital for human life. of fauna and flora. Ekurhuleni, the industrial hub of South Africa, faces challenges in ensuring a more In the 21st century we need wetlands more than ever equitable distribution of economic benefits, while before. The conservation and wise use of wetlands managing the environmental impacts associated which are managed more holistically, effectively and with its industrial, mining and related activities. cohesively is therefore essential to sustain human livelihoods and local economies, protect our valuable Wetlands are one of the most valuable and diverse biodiversity and buffer the impacts of climate change. ecosystems on this planet and are essential for human existence. Wetlands clean the water we drink as well Ekurhuleni’s wetlands, open space and biodiversity as provide nutritious food in the form of plants and are under immense pressure from both competing fish as well as organic materials which can be used land uses and a shortage of resources. The continued for medicinal purposes. They help protect us from growth of Ekurhuleni’s population and economy flooding and storm surges and also have the ability to is increasing the pressure on available land. Local store water which is then released in times of drought. government is tasked with service provision and Wetlands also provide key habitat for a significant ensuring that social and economic development array of critically endangered flora and fauna. proceeds within the carrying capacity of the biological resource base, it is therefore a significant front-line Wetlands also play a key role in the mitigation of manager in wetland management. climate change which is predicted to have a major impact on human livelihoods. They can store large The City of Ekurhuleni commits to continuous and amounts of carbon and thus can help with the stringent maintenance and rehabilitation of wetlands regulation of greenhouse gases, thereby assisting across the City. Strong emphasis and attention is in the control of mitigating climate change. These also placed on implementing the Lakes and Dams ecosystems also have the ability to protect against masterplan for Ekurhuleni, which will see water- the effects of natural disaster by reducing flooding bodies within the City being elevated to key strategic risk, stabilizing shorelines and controlling erosion. land parcels that will contribute to potential economic investment and leveraging on the water economy. Despite the essential role wetlands play in maintaining the delicate balance of life on Earth, they are being lost Mr. Hezekiel Nkosi and degraded at an unprecedented rate, faster than Head of Department: any other ecosystem worldwide. Since the 1900s, it is Environmental Resource estimated that 64% ofthe world’s wetlands have been Management Department destroyed in the name of development. 50% of South Africa’s wetlands alone have been lost. Wetlands have been ‘reclaimed’ for building or agricultural expansion, increasingly polluted and degraded. As a result, species which once populated these areas in ��

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 1 ICLEI – LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR SUSTAINABILITY

[email protected] +27 21 202 0381 www.africa.iclei.org www.twitter.com/ICLEIAfrica

ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability is the In order to strengthen the role cities and local leading global network of over 1,500 cities, towns and governments play in the pursuit of greater regions committed to building a sustainable future. sustainability through the collaborative design and By helping the ICLEI Network to become sustainable, implementation of integrated urban development low-carbon, ecomobile, resilient, biodiverse, resource- and effective biodiversity management, the ICLEI efficient, healthy and happy, with a green economy Cities Biodiversity Center (ICLEI CBC) was created in and smart infrastructure, we impact over 25% of the 2009. The ICLEI CBC is located in Cape Town, South global urban population. Africa, embedded in the Africa Regional Office of ICLEI. We offer cities a broad portfolio of supportive ICLEI Africa’s work is conducted by a dynamic and services through our dedicated team of passionate, passionate team of professionals that seek to work skilled and dynamic biodiversity and urban with cities to ensure a more sustainable future, with a development experts. specific focus on urban biodiversity matters.

2 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report ICLEI CITIES BIODIVERSITY CENTEr LOCAL ACTION FOR BIODIVERSITY PROGRAMME

[email protected] +27 21 202 0381 www.africa.iclei.org www.twitter.com/ICLEIAfrica

The ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Center aims to create buffers further biodiversity loss, improves the urban BiodiverCities, which promote urban biodiversity for standard of living, and provides local opportunities the many benefits they offer, including human well- for global education and awareness. being, poverty alleviation, habitat conservation, air and water quality, climate change adaptation and ICLEI’s Local Action for Biodiversity (LAB) programme mitigation, food provision, fortified infrastructure is a unique global biodiversity programme run by resilience, and happiness of citizens. The ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Center. The LAB Program is aimed at improving and enhancing ecosystem BiodiverCities are aware that ecosystem services management at the local level, and is recognized contribute towards many essential municipal globally as the leading results-driven local government services, as well as towards the local economy, biodiversity initiative. Currently, LAB is working on sustainability and social well-being of their cities. wetland restoration in South Africa under the Local Biodiversity in cities provides a critical contribution Action for Biodiversity: Wetlands South Africa (LAB towards achieving the global biodiversity targets. It Wetlands SA) project.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 3 Table of Contents

Foreword ��1 ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability ��2 ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Center ��3 Local Action for Biodiversity Programme ��3 Table of Contents ��4 List of Tables ��6 List of Acronyms and Abbreviations ��6 List of Figures ��7 Executive Summary ��8 Introduction ��9

1 i What is a Wetland? ��11

2 i What is Biodiversity? ��13

3 i Wetlands and Biodiversity in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��14 3.1 Wetland Ecosystem Services in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��14 3.2 Mapping Wetlands in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��17 3.3 current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��20 3.4 Biodiversity in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��25 3.5 key Wetlands in the Municipal Area ��26 3.6 The value of Wetlands in Ekurhuleni ��27 3.7 Threats to Ekurhuleni Wetlands ��29 3.8 Drivers of Ecological Change ��33

4 i Disaster Management and Climate Change ��37 4.1 Disaster Management in the Municipality ��37 4.2 Risk Mapping ��38 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ��39 4.3.1 Current Climate Information ��39 4.3.2 Future Climate Info ��40 4.3.3 Consequences ��43

4 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 5 i Governance & Management ��44 5.1 Policy Framework ��44 5.2 Wetland Management within the Municipality ��45

6 i Local and regional partnerships and programmes ��47

7 i Communication and Public Awareness ��48 7.1 Communication and Education ��48 7.2 Public Participation and Awareness ��48

Conclusion ��49 Acknowledgements ��50 Definitions as per EMM Bioregional Plan ��51 Resources ��53 Footnotes ��55 Notes ��56

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 5 List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

AS Africa Secretariat LAB Local Action for Biodiversity AMD Acid mine drainage MTSF Medium Term Strategic Framework BGIS Biodiversity Geographic Information Metro Metropolitan System NDP National Development Plan BRP Bioregional Plan NEMA National Environmental Management CBA Critical Biodiversity Area Act CEPA Communication, education and public NEMBA National Environmental Management awareness Biodiversity Act CDMP Corporate Disaster Management Plan NFEPA Natural Freshwater Ecosystem Priority DEA Department of Environmental Affairs Areas EbA Ecosystem-based adaptation NSBA National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment NWA National Water Act EMF Environmental Management Framework SA South Africa EMM Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality SANBI South African National Biodiversity ESA Ecological Support Areas Institute GIS Geographic Information System SDF Spatial Development Framework HGM Hydro-geomorphic SoER State of Environment Report IAP Invasive Alien Plants USAID United States Agency for International IBA Important Bird Areas Development IDP Integrated Development Plan WFW Working for Wetlands IUCN International Union for the Conservation WWTW Waste Water Treatment Works of Nature

List of Tables

Table 1 Ecosystem services provided by wetlands Table 2 EMM river and wetland ecosystems threats status Table 3 Main drivers of ecological change in Ekurhuleni Table 4 Role of wetlands in disaster risk mitigation Table 5 Legislative framework governing wetlands in Ekurhuleni

6 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report List of Figures

Figure 1 Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Figure 19 A dam wall in the Benoni area. Municipality’s’ location depicted in Figure 20 Extraction of wetland material in Gauteng Province and South Africa. the Benoni area. Figure 2 & 3 Images depicting mottled soils (top) Figure 21 Marievale bird sanctuary (with and specially adapted wetlands Springs goldmine waste dump in vegetation (bottom). the background). Figure 4 Image depicting the different types Figure 22 Example of the water filtration of wetland systems within South capabilities of wetlands. Africa. Figure 23 Patrick Ganda, environmental Figure 5 Spur-winged Goose (Plectropterus officer at the Grootvaly gambensis subsp. niger). Blesbokspruit Wetland Reserve with Figure 6 Grasaalwyn (Aloe ecklonis), one the Pampass grass in the reserve. of the vegetation species found Figure 24 Tinos Mauchira, an employee on in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Tamuka’s plot, holds two dead koi Municipality. fish found in the polluted water of Figure 7 Image of a Giant/Highveld Bullfrog the Blesbokspruit. (Pyxicephalus adspersus). Figure 25 Historical climate monthly averages Figure 8 Illustration of the EMM landcover for EMM. showing waterbodies and wetlands. Figure 26 Average maximum temperatures Figure 9 Bird watching is a popular for EMM. recreational activity at wetlands. Figure 27 Average minimum temperate Figure 10 Map indicating the spatial for EMM. distribution of the NFEPA wetlands Figure 28 Total monthly rainfall for EMM. within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Figure 29 Count of wet days for EMM. Municipality. Figure 30 Mean dry spells for EMM. Figure 11 Surface Hydrology systems of the Figure 31 Frost days for EMM. EMM area. Figure 32 Schematic representation on the Figure 12 Esselen Park Pan in Tembisa. hydrological buffering capability of Figure 13 The Boksburg Lake. wetlands. Figure 14 Korman Bird Sanctuary. Figure 33 Organogram showing where the Figure 15 Ecosystem protection levels within Wetlands division is situated with Ekurhuleni. the EMM structure. Figure 16 Internationally renowned RAMSAR Figure 34 Delegates at the Ekurhuleni Site, Blesbokspruit Catchment in Wetland Strategy and Action EMM. Planning workshop. Figure 17 Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site Figure 35 & 36 LAB Wetlands SA project municipal in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan delegates including EMM receiving Municipality. on the ground wetland and Google Figure 18 Threatened wetland ecosystems Earth training at the 2016 National types and river ecosystem types Wetlands Indaba. in the Ekurhuleni Municipality Figure 37 Fulvous Ducks species found at the identified in the National Blesbokspruit wetland (Dendrocygna Freshwater Ecosystems Priority bicolor). Areas Project.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 7 Executive Summary

The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) plants (IAPs), mining activity, including extraction is one of six metropolitan municipalities in South and infilling, inappropriate development within the Africa (SA) and is located in the eastern region of the close proximity to the wetlands, poorly regulated Gauteng Province. It is bordered by the metropolitan agricultural practices (overgrazing and cultivating) areas of the City of Johannesburg to the west, and and the poor state of Waste Water Treatment Works the City of Tshwane to the north-west. The Kungwini (WWTW). Degraded wetlands are unable to function Municipality (Metsweding District Municipality), and to the same degree as healthy wetlands and as such, the Delmas Municipality within the Mpumalanga ecosystem service provision is severely hindered or Province (Nkangala District Municipality) lie to the even lost. More importantly, careful management as north and east respectively. Midvaal and Lesedi are well as the investment in the maintenance of healthy the southern bordering municipalities (Sedibeng wetlands and the rehabilitation and restoration of District Municipality). damaged or degraded wetlands is required. This will ensure the continued provision of these vital The wetlands throughout the Ekurhuleni ecosystem services to the municipality. Metropolitan Municipality are considered to be high-value ‘ecological infrastructure’ as they provide In order to streamline and improve the management habitat to key flora and fauna, but also provide critical of wetlands, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ecosystem services to the municipality. These include is implementing the Local Action for Biodiversity: flood attenuation, water filtration, erosion control Wetlands South Africa (LAB: Wetlands SA) programme and water storage (regulatory services), passive with support from ICLEI Africa Secretariat (ICLEI AS). recreation in the form of bird watching as well as food The LAB: Wetlands SA project aims to ensure the provision, supply of raw materials and clean drinking protection of priority natural wetland resources, water (provisioning services). The wetlands within thus enabling the supply of ecosystem services, and the municipality also play a pivotal role in disaster promoting resilient communities and sustainable local risk management as well as potentially reducing the economies under a changing climate within South impacts of climate change within the municipality. African local governments. Through the development of this Wetland Report, ICLEI AS will assist Ekurhuleni Despite the wetlands within the municipality Metropolitan Municipality in identifying the gaps in being of high value in terms of ecosystem service management and assist with devising new and better provision, a large number of the wetlands in the wetlands management strategies going forward. region are under threat or have already been lost. This is largely due to the spread of invasive alien

8 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report Introduction

South Africa is endowed with a rich wealth of numerous waterbodies, including lakes, pans, dams, biodiversity, which offers an immense opportunity wetlands and streams. The natural environment of to support the country’s development path by EMM is pre-dominantly Highveld Grasses. However, providing many goods and services which contribute due to massive urbanisation and industrialisation, the to municipal service delivery, water and food security, natural environment has largely been transformed or and quality of life, especially under a changing climate. highly impacted, but still provides ecological services. Wetlands in particular, are high-value ‘ecological infrastructure’, providing critical ecosystem services Wetlands are exceptionally high value ecosystems such as clean water, clean air, food, medicines, water that make up a small fraction of the country. Given storage and habitat for biodiversity. Wetlands also their strategic importance for ensuring water play a role in disaster management, and could lessen quality and regulating water supplies, investment the negative effects of climate change through flood in conserving, managing and restoring wetlands attenuation, temperature regulation as well as water are likely to generate disproportionately large and food security. returns. These important ecosystems also constitute irreplaceable natural infrastructure for managing However, wetlands are South Africa’s most threatened water resources, as well as providing a range of ecosystems, with 48% of wetland ecosystems critically other ecosystem services. Society cannot rely solely endangered,1 resulting in an urgent need to increase on complex and expensive engineering solutions to awareness of wetland importance and to incorporate provide drinking water and to cleanse waste water. natural wetland resource considerations into The ecosystem services provided by wetlands include municipal governance mechanisms and planning. their ability to improve water quality and contribute to the maintenance of base-flows in rivers. In the The Metropolitan Municipalities of Gauteng Province context of climate change, with predicted increases are home to a high proportion of South Africa’s mining in the variability and intensity of rainfall events, activity, heavy industry, commercial enterprise and wetlands have the potential to play a more important urban population. The pressures placed on the role than ever before in mitigating extreme episodes environment and the remaining natural ecosystems such as floods and droughts. are very high and the loss of habitat and ecological processes is expected. The natural extent of wetlands in South Africa is low, and individual wetlands tend to be small, with Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) lies in approximately 300 000 remaining wetlands covering the eastern part of Gauteng Province, South Africa only 2.4% of the country, ultimately meaning that the (Figure 1), and it covers an area of 1 923 km2. It consequences of destruction of these small wetland stretches for approximately 45 kilometres from west ecosystems are much greater as opposed to what it to east and 55 kilometres from north to south. EMM would have been if wetlands were larger ecosystems is bordered by the metropolitan areas of the City of covering large space of land. It also means that Johannesburg to the west, the City of Tshwane to managing and conserving the tiny proportion of the the north, Nkangala District (Mpumalanga) to the country’s surface area covered by wetlands can make east and Sedibeng District to the south. It is located a big contribution to improving water quality and to on the Southern African continental divide and falls enhancing resilience to climate change by improving within the Highveld Region. EMM is well known for its flood and drought regulation.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 9 introduction (continued)

In South Africa, natural resources from wetlands This report draws together the range of knowledge are often central to the livelihoods of people and about wetlands in the municipality, and provides natural biodiversity. These resources include water a detailed overview of the stakeholders and for agricultural, industrial and domestic use for both programmes working towards improved wetland local and down-stream users. At the same time, these management in this region. wetlands and the resources they supply are coming under increasing pressure, e.g. through extensive conversion to settlement and urban development.

Figure 1: Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality’s’ location depicted in Gauteng Province and South Africa.

10 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 1 | What is a Wetland?

Wetlands are land which is transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems, where the water ‘ table is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically covered with shallow water, and which land in normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil. National Water Act No’. 36 of 1998.

In simpler terms, a wetland is a feature in the landscape which is saturated with water for a long enough period that the soil conditions change (mottling as a result of the anaerobic conditions) and the vegetation shifts to respond to these changes.

Six different types of wetlands occur across the country. These vary based on the underlying geology and include seeps, depressions, wetland flats, floodplain wetlands, channelled valley- bottom wetlands and unchannelled valley bottom wetlands. SANBI has compiled a detailed hydro- geomorphic classification system to assist with wetland identification. An illustrative overview from this document of the different types of wetlands is included in Figure 4.

Wetlands also vary on a temporal scale based on the climate and season. As such, once a wetland type has been established, it can then be categorised into either a temporary, seasonal or permanent wetland. A temporary wetland is saturated for a very short period (approximately one month) during the rainy season only. Vegetation associated with this type of wetland are predominantly grass species, as well as a mixture of species that occur in non-wetland areas and hydrophytic plants that are largely restricted to wetland areas. A seasonal wetland is saturated for most of the growing season. Vegetation associated with this type of wetland are predominantly sedges and grasses that are restricted to wetland areas, usually < 1 m tall. Lastly, a permanent wetland is saturated all year round. This type of wetland is dominated by highly specialised aquatic plants adapted to permanently wet conditions. Figure 2 & 3: Images depicting mottled soils (top) and specially adapted wetlands vegetation (bottom).2 For further details regarding specific wetlands located within EMM, please refer to Section 3.3 of this report.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 11 Figure 4: Image depicting the different types of wetland systems within South Africa.3

All wetland types can be classified as high value experience. Lastly supporting services are the services ‘ecological infrastructure’ due to the large number provided that are necessary for the production of all of ecosystem services that they provide. Wetland other ecosystem services namely, nutrient cycling ecosystem services can be classified into four and water cycling. Please refer to Section 3.1 of this separate categories, namely ‘provisioning services’, report for a detailed description of the ecosystem ‘regulating services’, ‘cultural services’ and ‘supporting services that wetlands within Ekurhuleni Metropolitan services’.4 Provisioning services can be described as Municipality provide. the products one can physically obtain from wetlands such as fresh water, food and natural medicines. It should be noted that ecosystem services provided Regulatory services can be described as the benefits by wetlands come at no cost to the municipality and one receives from the wetland such as stream flow as such, all that needs to be done to ensure continued regulation, erosion control, water filtration and flood provision of these services is to protect and maintain attenuation. Cultural services are the nonmaterial local wetlands. benefits that one can obtain from wetlands such as spiritual enrichment, sense of place and aesthetic

12 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 2 | What is Biodiversity?

The variability among living organisms from all sources, including, terrestrial, marine and other ‘ aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part and also includes diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act No. 10 of’ 2004

To expand on this, biological diversity or the shorter more commonly used term ‘biodiversity’, is the variety of genes, species and ecosystems on Earth, and the processes that maintain this diversity. It is the living species and natural processes that constitute nature. Rather than simply considering plant and animal populations (i.e. total numbers), biodiversity reflects the variability of plants and animals and crucially, the processes by which they are supported, and the functions that they deliver. Essentially, as biodiversity includes natural processes, it describes the health and functioning of a given area. For example, if a wetland becomes polluted and its ecological condition deteriorates, it is no longer able to function correctly and natural processes such as providing food (e.g. fish), materials (e.g. reeds) and water purification no longer take place. The real value in the term biodiversity is that by describing the variety of life forms rather than total numbers, biodiversity can be used at any scale (e.g. for landscapes such as grasslands or habitat such as a woodland or koppie) to reflect the health of any area – not just wild landscapes, but pockets of biodiversity such as wetlands, too.

Figure 6: Grasaalwyn (Aloe ecklonis), one of the vegetation species found in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.6

Figure 5: Spur-winged Goose (Plectropterus gambensis subsp. niger).5

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 13 3 | Wetlands and Biodiversity in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Within Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, there seasonal in nature. The few that are perennial are are at least 16 threatened plant species and 14 found within the agricultural areas. A number of lakes threatened animal species, and 10 ecosystems listed are found within the region and are primarily a creation as threatened according to National Environmental of the Gold Mines in the area. The Germiston, Benoni Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA). Aquatic and Boksburg lakes are prime examples of this and systems are equally unique in the bioregion, with are utilized as recreational parks. However the water 97% of wetland types and 29% of river types in the quality of these systems is severely under stress due Metro listed as threatened. Just over a third of the to problems associated with water hyacinth, mine EMM is in a natural or near natural state (36%), with dust pollution and storm water drainage (EMF, 2007). urbanisation (35%), agriculture (23%) and mining The Lakes are not natural in origin, but are manmade (7%) together covering 64% of the Metro. Critical impoundments or dams. In the strict sense of the Biodiversity Areas (CBA) cover 18% of the Metro; definition no natural lakes occur in the EMM.8 with CBA 1 (natural or near natural state) covering 17% and CBA 2 (cultivated landscapes which retain The EMM falls within two priority areas identified importance for threatened species) covering 1%. in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment Ecological Support Areas (ESA) cover a further 18% of (SANBI, 2004), and is home to a disproportionately the municipality; with ESA 1 (natural, near natural or high percentage of rare and threatened species and degraded state) covering 6% and ESA 2 (no remaining threatened ecosystems. A high proportion of South natural habitat) covering 12%. Protected Areas cover Africa’s mining activity, heavy industry, commercial just over 1% of the Ekurhuleni Metro.7 enterprise and urban development occur in EMM, and consequently, the pressures placed on the An impressive feature of the EMM region is the environment and the remaining natural ecosystems occurrence of a number of wetlands, pans, lakes and are very high, and opportunities for conservation of dams. The pans are generally as a direct result of biodiversity are limited. These factors together make the flat topography in those areas. The pans cover a a bioregional plan an appropriate tool for addressing total area of approximately 3 559 ha and are mostly the threats to biodiversity in the Metro.

3.1 Wetland Ecosystem Services in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Wetlands provide many benefits at very little cost. of surface water runoff. Wetlands also recharge They are unique and vital ecological resources, groundwater. In EMM, a substantial percentage of providing a host of services to society. Thus, every the population live within the 1:50 year flood-line, individual wetland is important. However, wetlands for example in Moleleki Section in Katlehong where a differ according to their characteristics and the township was established within the flood-line of the particular ecosystem services that they supply to Natalspruit and the community is flooded regularly. society. Thus, society may deem some wetlands to be The conservation and rehabilitation of wetlands will more important than others.9 reduce the impact on these people caused by the periodic floods in the Municipality. Flood Reduction and Stream-flow Regulation – Wetlands retain large amounts of water, which would Water Quality Improvement – Wetlands are good reduce the impact of floodwaters further down the water filters. The wetland vegetation intercepts runoff river. This is particularly important in urban areas, as before it reaches the river and filters out nutrients, developments have increased the rate and volume wastes and sediments. Wetlands reduce nitrates

14 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.1 Wetland ecosystem services in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

and phosphates; this prevents eutrophication of Erosion Control – Wetland vegetation binds the soil, rivers and dams. The reduction in sediment prevents preventing it from being washed downstream and siltation of rivers, dams and ports. Sediments also in the process it reduces the erosive power of the transport absorbed nutrients, pesticides, heavy metal water. Wetlands also reduce the velocity of the water and other toxins that would lower the quality of water through friction thereby allowing the sediments to and make it harmful for consumption. Wetlands settle. therefore provide cost effective and efficient wastewater treatment. Recreational Purposes – Wetlands act as recreational areas for people, as places where they go for relaxation Biodiversity Banks – Wetlands are one of the most and to enjoy nature. They are used for water sports, biodiverse ecosystems. They support a wide variety bird watching and fishing. Victoria Lake in Germiston of plants, invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, is a man-made waterbody located in the Natalspruit mammals and water birds. They serve as important catchment and Middle Lake in Benoni are examples breeding grounds for these species. of waterbodies used for recreational purposes where fishing and water sports take place. Korman Bird The destruction and degradation of wetlands has led Sanctuary situated at Westdene Pan, Glen Austin to the loss of habitat for a number of endangered Bird Sanctuary in Glen Austin Pan and Marievale Bird species. These include a large number of different Sanctuary and Grootvaly Blesbokspruit Conservation migratory waterfowl, as well as the Giant Bullfrog. area in the Blesbokspruit all have bird watching facilities.

Medicinal Properties – People have used wetland animals and plants for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The importance of plants for human health is evident by the estimated 70-80% of people worldwide who rely mainly on traditional, largely herbal medicine to meet their primary health care needs.

Educational and tertiary research potential – the wetlands and rivers in EMM present vast environmental educational as well as research opportunities for students.

Figure 7: Image of a Giant/Highveld Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus).10

The wetlands fauna and flora are also important from an aesthetic point of view, especially in a city where loss of open space is constantly occurring through development. People do not have time to visit the countryside, thus wetlands provide green lungs where people can relax in pleasant surroundings.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 15 3.1 Wetland ecosystem services in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Figure 8: Illustration of the EMM landcover showing waterbodies and wetlands.

The EMM contains a high diversity of river and wetland ecosystems. The Natural Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA) project (Nel et al., 2011) identified 30 unique wetland systems and 7 river types in the area. The EMM contains a high portion of South Africa’s urban, industrial and mining activity, as well as significant areas of arable agriculture all of which potentially negatively impact on the condition of hydrological systems. Impacts include changes in water quality (e.g. acid mine drainage, waste water from treatment plants, fertilizer and pesticide run-off) and water flow regimes (e.g. catchment hardening and increased storm water flows). Consequently, 97% of the wetland and 29% of the river systems are Figure 9: Bird watching is a popular recreational threatened. activity at wetlands.

16 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.2 Mapping Wetlands in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Figure 10: Map indicating the spatial distribution of the NFEPA wetlands within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.11

The majority of waterbodies in the northern part one wetland system on the GIS satellite whilst others of EMM drain north into the Limpopo and Olifants have been destroyed completely by land use change Rivers before eventually ending up in the Indian and could not be found during the ground truthing Ocean. The southern waterbodies drain into the Vaal process. River and ultimately into the Atlantic Ocean. EMM falls within the Crocodile, Olifants and Upper Vaal A number of lakes and dams are found within the Water Management Areas and under the jurisdiction region and are man-made, primarily created by the of the newly proposed Limpopo, Olifants and Vaal Gold Mines in the area. The Germiston, Benoni and Management Agencies. Boksburg lakes are prime examples of this and are utilized as recreational parks. However, the water An impressive feature of the EMM is the prevalence quality of these systems is severely under stress due of a number of wetlands, pans, lakes and dams. The to problems associated with water hyacinth, mine Geographic Information System (GIS) layers from dust pollution and storm water drainage (EMF, 2007). the existing topographical maps (1:50 000) identified 695 wetlands, however, during ground truthing only Pans on the other hand are naturally occurring 206 were identified (Ekurhuleni Wetlands Inventory, waterbodies and in terms of definitions, a pan is a type 2007). Some of the wetlands reflected as more than of wetland. In terms of legislation, pans (along with

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 17 3.2 Mapping wetlands in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

other wetlands) have differing and more stringent Kaalspruit/Olifantspruit legislation in terms of development and associated The stream (spruit) originates in Kempton Park and activities than dams or even streams and rivers. In Tembisa and flows north to join the Hennops River terms of strict definitions, there are no true lakes in Centurion. The serious pollution in this system is occurring within the EMM. A true lake is a naturally attributed once again to human settlements and occurring waterbody. agricultural activities (EMF, 2007).

The surface hydrological system of the EMM consists Jukskei River of 6 main river or stream systems12. A number of small tributaries of this system drains to the western region of EMM around Edenvale. This Blesbokspruit system stabilises as it leaves Ekurhuleni through This system originates to the north of Benoni and parts of Alexandria. Daveyton and flows southwards through Springs and Nigel towards the Vaal River. The eastern part of the Bronkhorstspruit catchment contains extensive natural wetlands, while Two small streams, namely the Osspruit and the western part is highly modified by agriculture and Kofffiespruit, which feed the Bronkhorstspruit, drain human settlements. Key industries such as mines the eastern area. (mine dumps and slimes dams), waste disposal sites, intensive agriculture and sewage works impact Rietvlei Stream negatively on water quality. The system starts in the small-holdings area of Kempton Park and flows northwards past OR Tambo Klip River and its tributaries International Airport to Rietvlei Dam. This dam is a The Rietspruit originates in the southwest of the high contributor of water supply in the Tshwane Benoni area and joins the Klip River outside the Metropolitan Municipality. The primary supply of EMM boundary. The Natalspruit, which is another this water originates from agricultural and industrial tributary of the Klip River, has its origin in and around surface run-off. The Grootvlei River in the Bapsfontein the Germiston and Boksburg areas. The upper area is a tributary of this system. The sewage works reaches of the Klip River can be found to originate plant in Kempton Park is responsible for serious within Kathlehong. The pollution within these spruits pollution of this system. However, the system consists (streams) can be attributed to human settlements, of a number of wetlands between the dam and the agricultural practices and industrial activities. sewage works which helps filter the pollution. The Although these rivers join the Vaal River, just beyond Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality also operates an the Vaal dam, the effects of pollution on the quality extensive filtering plant at the dam. of drinking water is not problematic. However the pollution impacts on both the aesthetic and natural While EMM has good information relating to their aspect of the Vaal River. wetlands, there is a real need for improved mapping of wetlands in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.

18 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.2 Mapping wetlands in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Figure 11: Surface Hydrology systems of the EMM area.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 19 3.3 Current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

The following lakes, pans and dams have been activities in and around the dam, swimming and the identified as key waterbodies for opportunities Stoke City Wake Park provides wakeboard and water- such as economic development, where the EMM ski opportunities on the cable lakes. can impose entrance fees for the use of a particular space in and around the waterbody. Alternatively, the Esselen Park Pan – The Esselen Park Pan is a property could be leased to private companies which naturally occurring body of water located in Tembisa, would operate certain recreational activities, and in the north western region of EMM. The pan is in other development, like the development of office the catchment of the Kaalspruit and the land directly parks and hotels within the EMM. adjacent to the pan (shores) is open land, but further away and surrounding the area of the dam there Olifantspruit Dam – Olifantspruit Dam is a manmade is a large high density residential area. The pan is waterbody situated in Olifantsfontein. The dam can estimated that it is at a full level and the approximate be accessed from the R562, Olifantsfontein Road, size of the surface water of the dam is 15,4 ha. The south of the Midstream Estates. The area of the water in the pan is dirty and there is litter on the waterbody can be calculated to be 15,7 ha. shores of the pan. Reeds inhabit the shores of the dam, various species of bird can be observed on site Olifantspruit Dam is a well maintained dam built (Plovers, Swallows, Sacred Ibis, Coots, Ducks and within an unnamed tributary of the Kaalspruit River. Hadida Ibis). The pan does not have an official human There are two non-perennial streams that feed into water use at present which makes it a hotspot for the Olifantspruit Dam. There are existing recreational unwanted activity such as illegal dumping.

Figure 12: Esselen Park Pan in Tembisa.13

20 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.3 Current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Blaaupan – The Blaaupan is located near OR Tambo Westdene Pan – Westdene Pan sits in the heart of the International Airport, between the R43 (Atlas Road) residential areas of Benoni. Westdene is a naturally and M45, in the catchment of the Blesbokspruit. occurring pan that has been largely impacted by The existing land uses surrounding the pan are high-density development around it and the resulting recreational, small residential areas and Pumula Park stormwater run-off from hardened surfaces. The Bird Nature Reserve. The pan is estimated at 70% of temporary zone and parts of the permanent zone its maximum water level and the approximate size are choked with reeds. The approximate surface of the surface water of the dam is 37 ha. The water area of the permanent open water area of the pan in the pan is fairly clean, reeds and sparse trees is 35,2 ha. The Korman Bird Sanctuary is situated at surround the edge of the pan. The existing use of the Westdene Pan and is an important bird area in terms waterbody includes fishing, boating and nature views of conservation within the EMM. (birds). Middle Lake – Middle Lake also known as Benoni Lake Sand Pan – The Sand Pan is situated in the catchment is located along the N12 (south) Road just between of the Blesbokspruit, north of the N12 in Benoni, the R21, Bunyan Street and M44 (Main) Road. The amongst an upmarket residential area and un- Middle Lake is found downstream of the Homestead proclaimed open land. At present it is mainly used for Lake which is on the opposite side of the N12 Road its aesthetic value. An estimated 20% is surrounded and it is upstream of the Civic Lake. The waterbody by the residential area, whereas the rest remains un- has an estimated area of 21,8 ha and a 6 m high dam proclaimed. Around the water’s edge both reeds and wall. The identified land uses around the Middle Lake a few trees are growing, but not to the extent that the are recreational, (the Benoni Lake Golf course and dam is chocked with reeds. The color of the water is club house) and commercial use, (the Lake Hotel and muddy brown and does not have an odour. There are Conference Centre). Reeds and trees were noted on birds at the Sand Pan, but it has not been established the banks of the lake estimated to be around 50%. if they nest or breed here. The pan is approximately Algae infestation has been noted on the boundaries 73 ha in size. of the Lake.

Bullfrog Pan – Bullfrog Pan is a pan that is situated Civic Lake – The Civic Lake waterbody is found in close to Sand Pan. Bullfrog Pan is a shallow waterbody Benoni and can be accessed through Tom Jones that is fed with storm-water run-off from surrounding Road which off-ramps from the N12 National Road. low- to medium density urbanization. Surrounding The Civic and the Kleinfontein Lakes are separated land uses included urbanization (houses) and open by the Voortreker Road. The surrounding land uses veld areas. The approximate size of the surface water are industrial or commercial with the Lakeside Mall of the dam is 55,5 ha. situated at the southern part of the Lake. The lake is about 9,8 ha. Beautification and rehabilitation of Van Ryn Dam – Van Ryn Dam is located in Rynfield, some parts of the lake have been recommended. just a few kilometers away from the Bunny Park in Benoni. The dam is enclosed within a residential Kleinfontein Lake – Kleinfontein Lake is located development called Ebotse Golf and Country Estate. on the eastern side of the Civic Lake. The lake Van Ryn Dam is a manmade, in-stream dam built occurs along a stream which is a tributary of the along an unnamed tributary of the Blesbokspruit Blesbokspruit. There is a large mine dump on the River. The area of the dam is about 37,8 ha. There are western side of the Kleinfontein Lake. The total area existing recreational activities which include boating, of the lake is estimated to be around 36,6 ha. The fishing and bird watching for the Ebotse Residents. surrounding area is an un-proclaimed land and there No further developments have been recommended is an existing recreational boating activity. There is an for this waterbody. 80% growth of reeds around the Lake but they don’t

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 21 3.3 Current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in EMM (continued)

choke the waterbody. Potential development around Victoria Lake – Victoria or Germiston Lake is a the Kleinfontein Lake includes Office complex, man-made waterbody located in the catchment of Residential, Recreation and Conservation Park. the Natalspruit, near the Rand Airport. The areas immediately adjacent to the lake are open with Boksburg Lake – Boksburg Lake is a man made in- grass and tree (including the golf course), although stream waterbody located on the Elsburgspruit. The in the surrounding areas there are residential and areas immediately adjacent to the waterbody (shores) industrial land uses, with a major road and railway are vegetated by grass and trees. The areas in the line running on the eastern side of the lake. The lake vicinity of the lake are developed for commercial or is estimated that it is at 100% of its maximum water industrial land use. Increased urbanization in the level and the approximate size of the surface water past 15 years in the upstream reaches of the area of the dam is 67 ha. The water in the lake is fairly results in a dramatic increase in silt loads in the Lake. clean and clear, reeds and sparse trees surround the Results from water extracts showed extremely high edge of the pan. The existing use of the waterbody concentrations of heavy metals and organic pollution is mainly recreational, annual multi-sport events are in the sediment, especially Ammonia-N (21 mg/l). The held at this waterbody. approximate size of the surface water of the dam is 18 ha. Cinderella Dam – Cinderella Dam, along with Boksburg Lake is situated on the Elsburgspruit. The manmade dam is an impoundment built within the main channel of the Elsburgspruit. Large slimes dams and urbanized areas impact on the dam. The dam surface covers an area of approximately 31 ha.

Leeupan – Leeupan is a naturally occurring pan within the EMM. It is similar to a lake, however, a pan is significantly shallower and therefore the outer edge shrinks or enlarges significantly during rainy or dry seasons. Although Leeupan is surrounded by open space, the pan is still impacted on by industrial, urban and to a lesser extent agricultural practices. The pan’s permanent surface covers an area of approximately 62 ha.

Glenshaft Pan – The Glenshaft Pan is a natural waterbody located south of the N12 between Benoni South and Apex. It is located in the upper catchment of the Rietspruit. The pan is surrounded by low to medium income residential areas and there is a waste water treatment works north east of the pan. There are no developments on the shores of the pan and a large open grass area surrounds the northern shores. The water is clear but there is a presence of algae and the shores are choked with reeds. It is estimated that the pan is at 85% of the maximum capacity and it is Figure 13: The Boksburg Lake. approximately 8,6 ha.

22 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.3 Current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in EMM (continued)

Apex Pan – Apex Pan is predominantly bordered Spaarwater Pan – The Spaarwater Pan is located in an by industrial and agricultural areas. Water quality is area that is not proclaimed and developed, south east generally poor, causing problems for the aquatic biota of the Tsakane Township, and on a tributary of the and thus the overall health of the pan. The surface Blesbokspruit. It is a naturally occurring waterbody. area of the open water is approximately 51 ha. At present it does not have an official use by residents of EMM but is important in terms of regulatory Jan Smuts Dam – Jan Smuts is a large dam or pan. ecological functions and supporting animal life. It is It does not have a specific dam wall typical of most estimated that it is at 100% of its total volume. It is manmade impoundments (dams). However, the approximately 63 ha. dam is much larger than it would have been under completely natural conditions. There is large surface Duduza 1 Pan – The Duduza 1 Pan is located south storm-water run-off into the dam and it therefore east of Tsakane Township, in the southern portion of takes on many manmade dam characteristics. The the Blesbokspruit Catchment. Mining and grazing of surface area of the dam is approximately 65 ha. livestock are the main land uses on the surrounding areas. The water is clear, but is potentially polluted by Alexander Dam – Alexander Dam is situated the tailings in the vicinity and there is also evidence upstream from and close to Cowles Dam. Both are of dumping of rubble on the shores of the pan. It is situated within the main channel of a main tributary estimated that it is at 100% of its maximum volume. of the Blesbokspruit. Alexander is one of the larger Reeds are present but do not choke the waterbody. manmade impoundments situated along the The area of the Duduza 1 Pan is approximately Blesbokspruit. The open surface water of the dam is 58,1 ha. at least 77 ha, depending where the measurements are taken from. A road ‘cut’ the open surface water up Nigel Dam – Nigel Dam is a manmade waterbody, into a few smaller dams. situated outside Nigel industrial area called Vosterkroon. Other land uses in the surrounding area Cowles Dam – Cowles Dam is a manmade include the gold mine dump on the south eastern impoundment within the main channel of a tributary side of the Dam and the Nigel Golf Course is located of the Blesbokspruit. It is situated about 2,1 km about 700 m from the dam (Upstream). The dam is downstream from Alexander Dam. Until recently built along an unnamed tributary of the Blesbokspruit the land uses around and close to the dam have and is identified as the main water source to the dam. been predominantly mining and agriculture. These The surface area is estimated to be 58,8 ha. There are the main ecological drivers of the quality of the are reeds and grass along the boundary but are dam. Other important impacts on water quality and not choking the waterbody. There is existing fishing ecological state originate upstream. The approximate activity in the dam. open surface water of the dam is 56 ha. Mackenzieville Pan – The Mackenzieville Pan is a Van Wyks Dam – Van Wyks Dam is an instream naturally occurring body of water, located in the manmade waterbody, located near the intersection vicinity of the Nigel, in the south eastern region of of the N17 and R23, on the Rietspruit. The land EMM. The pan is in the Blesbokspruit catchment. The use surrounding the Van Wyks Dam is upmarket land directly adjacent to the pan is open land, but residential. At present it is estimated that it is at 100% further away and south of the pan there is a large of its maximum volume. The water is a murky green medium density residential area. North of the pan colour, yet there are no signs of reeds choking the and on the shore of the Nigel Dam the land use is waterbody. The dam is used for aesthetic views and mainly industrial. It is estimated that it is at 85% of not any other purpose. The area of the Van Wyks its maximum level and the approximate size of the Dam is approximately 13,5 ha. surface water of the dam is 48 ha. The water in the

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 23 3.3 Current use and opportunities posed by specific waterbodies in EMM (continued)

pan is murky green and infested with algae and there Marievale Bird Sanctuary – The Marievale Bird were signs of littering on the shores. Large amounts Sanctuary is situated in the southern half of the of reeds are present on the shores, and are thought Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site, an area that is also to be choking the pan. A road has been constructed a designated IBA in South Africa. Although the across the south western part of the pan. construction of roads, railways, pipelines and power lines in the area has reduced the flood-plains to small Other waterbodies – Many of South Africa’s bird dams, water-birds still prefer Marievale as a feeding species, including those within the Gauteng area are and breeding place. Habitats of the sanctuary includes under extreme pressure due to a variety of threats. shallow open water, reed-beds and grassland, so the The biggest threat is probably loss of natural habitat variety of birds is immense. Over 240 bird species needed for breeding, nesting, feeding, etc. Every year have been recently recorded. There are over 65 large areas of bird habitat are lost due to industrial species of water-birds, including large populations of and housing developments. This is especially relevant Reed Cormorant, Red knobbed Coot and Yellow-billed to the Gauteng Province, which includes the EMM. Duck. Goliath, Black, Squacco and Purple Herons are Currently, South Africa has 124 Important Bird Areas usually present. (IBAs), covering over 14 million hectares of habitat for our threatened, endemic and congregatory birds. Yet Grootvaly Blesbokspruit Conservation Area – is only 41% of the total land surface covered by our IBAs situated in the upper section of the Blesbokspruit is legally protected (www.bigs.sanbi.org/birds). RAMSAR site. This area is well equipped with an environmental education center, a bird ringing Korman Bird Sanctuary – Korman Bird Sanctuary laboratory, two bird viewing hides and other is situated at Westdene Pan. The sanctuary is seen infrastructure. as part of the pan and needs to be included in any proposed development. The Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site was placed on the Montreux Record in 1996 due to the mine water Glen Austin Bird Sanctuary – Glen Austin Bird discharge into the system. The site is still on the Sanctuary is situated at Glen Austin Pan. Any proposed Montreux Record and requires urgent intervention. development at, or around the pan, needs to include the bird sanctuary.

Figure 14: Korman Bird Sanctuary.

24 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.4 Biodiversity in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Figure 15: Ecosystem protection levels within Ekurhuleni.

Biodiversity in the EMM is under a lot of pressure from challenge of increasing its number of protected certain human activities. The conversion of natural areas. It also needs to involve the Working for Water habitats into manmade structures has fragmented Programme to identify and remove the vast number the natural Grasslands in the EMM. Pans have been of invasive alien plant species (IAPs). filled in for urban development, and wetlands and surface waterbodies have become isolated. All these In South Africa, only 11 ecosystem types are well developments in the area have resulted in the loss of protected and 71% is not protected at all, reflecting natural ecosystem function and biodiversity. the fact that wetland ecosystems have not been taken systematically into account in establishing and Natural migration of animal species is prohibited expanding land-based protected areas. by fences and walls built on the edges of the pans and wetlands. The symbiotic relationship within the ecosystem is also disturbed by human activities and the introduction of invasive alien species. Trade in medicinal plants has increased and is practiced in an unsustainable manner by traditional healers, shop traders, street traders and commercial gatherers in the area. The EMM area is also faced with the

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 25 3.5 kEY Wetlands in the Municipal Area

Figure 16: Internationally renowned RAMSAR Site, Blesbokspruit Catchment in EMM.

A small percentage of surface area is formally protected in the EMM. The main areas include the Blesbokspruit (lower southeast); parts of the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve (lower south); and a section of the Rietvlei Dam Municipal Nature Reserve (upper north). The RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands identified wetlands as one of the most important life support systems on earth. Only one RAMSAR site is found within the EMM, namely the Blesbokspruit and its associated wetlands (Figure 16). The Blesbokspruit and its associated wetlands are very important in terms of biodiversity, bird life and conservation. Further highlighting the importance of this RAMSAR site in the EMM is that Figure 17: Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site in Ekurhuleni there are currently only 20 RAMSAR sites in the whole Metropolitan Municipality.14 of South Africa. The Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site is currently the only one in SA on the Montreux Record.

26 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.6 The value of Wetlands in Ekurhuleni

Wetlands provide many benefits at very little cost. The list is by no means complete, but only includes They are unique and vital ecological resources, those benefits that can be readily and rapidly providing a host of services to society. Thus, every described. Other potentially important benefits individual wetland is important. However, individual including groundwater recharge and discharge wetlands differ according to their characteristics and and biomass export are difficult to characterize at the particular ecosystem services that they supply a rapid assessment level. No proper assessment of to society. Thus, society may deem some wetlands ecosystem goods and services was undertaken in to be more important than others. Kotze et al., this project, however based on the different wetlands (2005) has described ecosystem services that South Hydro-geomorphic (HGM) types, a basic assessment African wetlands are considered to provide (Table 1). of functionality was achieved.

Table 1 Ecosystem services provided by wetlands

Flood attenuation

Stream flow regulation

Sediment trapping

Phosphate assimilation

Nitrate assimilation W ater q u ality benefits Toxicant assimilation geoc h emical benefits en h ancement

I ndirect benefits Erosion control

Hydro Carbon storage

Biodiversity maintenance

Provision of water for human use

Provision of harvestable resources

Provision of cultivated foods

Cultural significance E cosystem services s u pplied by wetlands

Tourism and recreation D irect benefits Education and research

The most abundant wetland types within Ekurhuleni The inward draining nature, together with the are pans or depression wetlands. Pans receive both impervious underlying layer means that pans are surface and groundwater flows, which accumulate in not effective in stream flow regulation. Pans are also the depression, owing to their generally watertight not important for sediment trapping due to their underlying layer that prevents water from draining topographic isolation from other systems. They have away. The opportunity for flood attenuation by pans a low biodiversity value because they are inaccessible is limited by their positioning on the landscape, which to aquatic organisms that are dependent on streams. is generally isolated from stream channels. However, They can, however, be areas of endemism. Nitrogen they still do capture run-off because of their inward cycling in pans is likely to be important with some draining nature. This results in reduced surface water losses due to denitrification, and volatilization in the volumes that would otherwise reach the stream and case of high pH’s (Kotze et al., 2005) contribute to storm flows.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 27 3.6 the value of wetlands in Ekurhuleni (continued)

Palmer et al. (2002) identified pans as being probably has identified that many of Ekurhuleni wetlands the most important habitats for birds such as are currently used for recreational activities such flamingos and owls, because they usually provide as fishing, boating, picnic areas, golf courses, quad shallow-water and shoreline habitats which are rare biking and bird watching. This is the case for many in other types of wetlands (e.g. Leeupan in Wattville). dams/ lakes and pan wetlands such as Jan Smuts Pans in Ekurhuleni are very different. They range Dam, Benoni Lake, and Kempton Park Golf Course. from reed pan to grass pan. Many of the pans are also attracting developers Floodplains: Palmer et al. (2002) compared non- wanting to establish residential estates around water floodplain riparian wetlands with floodplain riparian features. A good example will be the Clear Waters wetlands and showed that flood plain riparian Residential Estate along the Atlas Road. wetlands are more valuable. The study indicated that floodplain wetlands offer a more extensive There are also rural communities that still depend on habitat than a non-floodplain riparian habitat, i.e. the these wetlands for water resources. These people still floodplain offers open water and vegetative habitats. wash their clothes and their bodies in the streams. This is a very important function since not all people Dams: Kotze et al. (2004) indicated that dams perform live in the cities and towns where there is steady water certain wetland functions such as sediments trapping, supply system. An example is the farm community e.g. Boksburg Lake and Brakpan Lake but they do not living along the R25, just outside the R21 high way perform other functions well. The study also showed from Pretoria to Kempton Park, in Kaalfontein. This that the habitat required by wetland species is lost specific example is found opposite the new Serengeti when a wetland is dammed. Moreover dams reduce Residential Estate. the in-stream flow requirement (Kotze et al., 2004). Palmer et al. (2002) pointed out that dams are crucial Agricultural activities, both cultivation and livestock for supporting high numbers of waterfowl species. farming, are one of the major land use activities in rural Ekurhuleni. Most farmers still depend on water Kotze et al. (2004) classified wetland functions from these wetlands for sustaining their agricultural according to direct and indirect benefits. The activities. Livestock such as cattle and sheep are study showed that indirect benefits include water grazing in the wetlands, especially during winter purification and enhancing water quality, flood when most vegetation patches are dry and wetlands attenuation, water storage and enhancement of provide the isolated green pasture. Most commercial sustained streamflow, recharging groundwater, farmers are cultivating maize and this is taking place erosion control, maintenance of biological diversity from the top of catchment areas down to the wetland and global climate stabilizing. Despite the identified areas. Most people still pump water straight from the problems in Ekurhuleni wetlands, and although not in rivers to irrigate their crops. An example of this are detail, a study (The Draft Reclamation, Rehabilitation, the farmers in the Bredell Agricultural Holdings area. Landscaping and Enhancement Feasibility Master Plan of Ekurhuleni Waterbodies, 2016) has identified several functions of Ekurhuleni wetlands. The study

28 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.7 Threats to Ekurhuleni Wetlands

Figure 18: Threatened wetland ecosystems types and river ecosystem types in the Ekurhuleni Municipality identified in the National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas Project.

Despite the huge benefits that wetlands provide draining of wetlands, development and expansion in terms of ecosystem services, 50% of wetlands in (both urban and agricultural) and pollution. Damage South Africa have already been lost and 48% of the to wetlands results in increasingly limited functionality remaining wetlands are critically endangered and/or and subsequently a decrease in the ability to provide degraded.15 This loss is a direct result of deliberate valuable ecosystem services.

This is an overview of wetland disturbance factors or threats affecting wetlands within Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.

Table 2 EMM river and wetland ecosystems threats status River and Number of Number of Number of Number of Least Total Wetland Critically Endangered Vulnerable Threatened Threat Status Endangered Types Types Types Types

Wetlands 20 8 1 1 30

Rivers 0 0 2 5 7

Total 20 8 3 6 37

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 29 3.7 threats to Ekurhuleni wetlands (continued)

Mining/Quarrying and Other Excavations – Sand as pumping of water from the Grootvlei mine near Quarrying and other excavations were identified at Springs stopped in early 2011, estimates suggest that different wetland sites around EMM. These activities acid mine drainage will flow onto the surface of the have led to the degradation of most wetland systems. ground near Nigel central business district three or Sand mining mostly occurs mostly in and around new five years following the closure of the mine – if action construction sites, mostly residential developments. is not taken. The Blesbokspruit and the Marievale In some areas such as Boksburg, Springs and Nigel, Bird Sanctuary are already contaminated with toxic mining, quarries and other excavations were a mine water. (Earthlife Africa website) common factor in active and dormant mining sites such as one site in Hill View, Germiston. Acid mine Dams – Filling of dams leads to the inundation drainage (AMD) occurs when water flows over upstream of the dam wall and the immediate exposed sulphide minerals, which oxidise in the area around (Figure 19). In many instances the presence of water and oxygen, causing the water outlets of the dams are poorly maintained creating to become acidic, which then dissolves other toxic opportunity for erosion gullies and bursting. A large metals. Exposure and oxidation of pyrite and other number of wetlands on private land, especially sulphide minerals occur in mine wall rocks, backfill, farms and agricultural holdings, were mostly small waste rock piles, low grade ore stockpiles and tailings artificial dams or ponds. Usually the water is kept for deposits. In and around South African gold mines, irrigation purposes and drinking water for livestock.

pyrite (FeS2) present in gold ore dissolves on oxidation These dams hold a lot of water which affects water and releases iron and sulphuric acids. supply to downstream users, hence the drying out of most wetlands. A large number of these small dams According to a report (December 2010) commissioned are found in the Petit/ Pomona areas. The study (The by the Inter-ministerial Committee on Acid Mine Draft Reclamation, Rehabilitation, Landscaping and Drainage, the mining companies and government had Enhancement Feasibility Master Plan of Ekurhuleni’s until June 2012 to control acid mine drainage before Waterbodies) also found that many wetlands are the toxic water under central Johannesburg begins to dammed for recreation purposes. A good example of flood the tourist mine in Gold Reef City, with estimates this is the Rynfield Bunny Park dams which are used the water reaching the surface – possibly initially in for recreation in the park. the Boksburg area – in March 2013. On the East Rand,

Figure 19: A dam wall in the Benoni area.

30 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.7 threats to Ekurhuleni wetlands (continued)

Water Abstraction and Extraction of Wetland Cultivation: Commercial and Subsistence – Agriculture Material – Most agricultural activities are dependent accounts for a large part of land coverage in the EMM on water from wetlands, thus increasing the level with irrigated agriculture being the most dominant direct impacts on the water regime within wetlands. activity. It was found that most cultivated farms Although to a lesser extent, extraction of wetland extend to parts of or within wetlands areas. Some material is a concern when done unsustainably. wetlands have been cultivated, and thus irreversibly Phragmites and bull rush are the most extracted transformed. Consequently, agricultural activities wetland material (Figure 20). These are mostly used have significantly altered the size and shape of most for manufacturing of artifacts and crafts (i.e. mats wetlands around the Metro area. Additionally, water and bags). regimes within most wetlands have been altered from permanent to either seasonal or temporal wetlands.

Livestock – In areas where livestock farming is the dominant form of farming, wetlands have been significantly affected through trampling effects. The trampling effect of livestock leads to suppression and significantly affects the rate of wetland vegetation regeneration. This happens mostly on private land where extensive livestock grazing is predominant. Grazing of wetlands mostly occurs during winter when most pastures have dried out and wetlands provide the only viable pastures in the area. The trampling effect of livestock leads to suppression and Figure 20: Extraction of wetland material in the significantly affects the rate of wetland vegetation Benoni area. regeneration. This happens mostly on private land where extensive livestock grazing is predominant. Drainage Channels and Diversions – Drainage has A good example is the wetland in Bapsfontein in the negative effects on wetlands. Drainage channels Olifants catchment where the wetland vegetation is speed up the movement of water through and out of lost due to trampling by livestock. the wetland, reducing its effectiveness in regulating stream flow and increasing danger of erosion. Burning – Wetland burning has been identified as Wetlands are difficult areas to work, due to their one of the most significant disturbance factors. This is waterlogged conditions. This leads to the drainage of commonly found in and around wetlands which are in culverts to divert water from the wetland to create close proximity to townships or informal settlements. conditions that will suit the envisaged land use. Burning of solid wastes (papers, plastics, rubbers, etc.) As a result, most of these wetlands have dried out in open dumping sites, mostly wetland sites, has led completely. In the case of Ekurhuleni the wetland to extensive wetland losses and wetland degradation. in Glen Marais has been impacted by a manmade drain which deposits excess water from the road Residential and Industrial Development – Due to into the adjacent wetland. Most drainage channels an increase in population and economic growth, are created in agricultural fields when wetlands are Ekurhuleni is experiencing major infrastructural drained to give way to crops. This in many cases leads developments such as residential estates and to the development of erosion gullies which grow shopping malls. Most residential estates are located and develop into a big donga. The end result is water around water features such as wetlands, especially flowing in an incised channel, drying out the whole where Golf Estates are to be developed. This results wetland area. in total modification of the wetland systems.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 31 3.7 threats to Ekurhuleni wetlands (continued)

Transportation Infrastructure (Roads and Railway) – Invasive Alien Plants (IAPs) – Invasive Alien Plant Roads crossing wetlands modify flow patterns. In most species (IAPs) displace indigenous vegetation cases a road will dam or drain the wetland of flow and therefore impact the integrity of the wetland upstream of the road. The culverts often concentrate system. They drain wetlands and destroy indigenous water flow downstream and increase the chance of vegetation, reducing cover, rendering it poor quality donga erosion. The current economic growth in the habitat for wetland fauna (Palmer et al., 2002). country is also bringing more demand for upgrades of Gauteng is one area that is heavily infested with old and construction of new roads. Most of these are invasive alien plant species and EMM is no exception. constructed across wetland areas and the result is that The most dominant invasive alien plants identified many wetlands are being fragmented and restricted are blue gum, black wattle, poplar and willows. These to narrow culverts for allowing water to pass through. plants occur within and/or on the temporal parts of This reduces wetland area sizes into narrow strips wetland areas. or channels. In Ekurhuleni there are roads which are Wetlands in particular and open waterbodies in fragmenting wetlands. As a result the culverts on the general are of the most threatened habitats in the road are concentrating the flow and causing head-cut world today. In some catchments in South Africa, in the wetland in Kempton Park Golf Course. studies reveal that over 50% of the wetlands have Waste Disposal and/or Dumping – Infilling of wetland already been largely transformed or totally destroyed. involves the dumping of solid waste onto the surface Other activities in the Blesbkspruit area include of the wetland. According to Kotze and Breen (2000) poaching, hunting with dogs, burning, illegal dumping, infilling generally has a very high and permanent illegal mining by artisanal miners in the river bed and impact on wetland functioning. Water flow patterns in on the banks, chemical and pathogen pollution from the wetland are altered and the natural vegetation is water care works and industries. lost. This leads to a complete destruction of wetland areas. In the case of Ekurhuleni, there is one wetland in the Benoni area wherein the developers constructed a filling station right inside a wetland area. Other developers dumped rubble and soil material on the remainder part of the wetland area. This was done to develop a shopping complex. A sewage pipe line has also been constructed right across the wetland in the same area. This has resulted in the wetland system changing shape and water regime completely.

Erosion Gullies – Overgrazing, burning and draining or creation of diversion channels results in the destruction of land cover, which make the wetlands Figure 21: Marievale bird sanctuary (with Springs 16 prone to various form of erosion and leads to the goldmine waste dump in the background). development of erosion head cuts and gullies. These have a potential to grow and cut through the entire wetland system, resulting in a complete drying out of a wetland due to lack of water.

32 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.8 Drivers of Ecological Change

The main drivers of ecological change within wetlands All of these drivers, or negative impacts, alter the flow have been the drainage of wetlands for crops and and quality of the water, not to mention the associated pastures, poorly managed burning and grazing that habitats such as riparian zones, floodplains, etc. has resulted in head cut and donga erosion, the According to Naledzi (2007) the continued destruction planting of IAPs in wetlands, mining, pollution and of wetlands and other waterbodies will result in less urban development (Naledzi, 2007). A key finding of pure water, less reliable water supplies, increased the freshwater ecosystem atlas is that 57% of river severe flooding, lower agricultural productivity, and ecosystems and 65% of wetlands in South Africa are more endangered species. The main drivers impacting threatened. It was found that the high levels of threat on the key waterbodies are shown in Table 3 below. result particularly from intense land use pressures, especially around cities.

Table 3 Main drivers of ecological change in Ekurhuleni18 No. Waterbody Main drivers of ecological change19

1 Rietspruit Agriculture, residential developments, industries developments

2 Natalspruit Settlements, sewage, illegal dumping, litter

3 Elsburgspruit Settlements, sewage, illegal dumping, litter, industrial, mining

4 Blesbokspruit Settlements, mining agriculture, illegal dumping, siltation, illegal gold mining

5 Rietvlei Agriculture, some mining and urbanisation, sewage

6 Kaalspruit Agriculture, settlements

7 Olifantspruit Dam Upstream runoff, upstream suburbs

8 Glen Austin Pan (incl. Glen Austin B.S.) Close built-up suburbs, litter, illegal dumping

9 Esselen Park Pan Close built-up suburbs, litter, illegal dumping, stormwater run-off

10 Blaaupan Close built-up suburbs

11 Sand Pan Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

12 Bullfrog Dam Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off

13 VanRyn Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

14 Westdene Pan (incl. Korman B.S.) Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

15 Middle Lake Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

16 Civic Lake Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

17 Kleinfontein Lake Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

18 Boksburg Lake Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

19 Germiston Lake Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

20 Cinderella Dam Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

21 Leeupan Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

22 Glenshaft Pan Close built-up suburbs, stormwater run-off, siltation

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 33 3.8 drivers of ecological change (continued)

Figure 22: Example of the water filtration capabilities of wetlands.17

According to the EMM Bioregional Plan (BRP), impacts beyond recognition, with most others under threat. (or drivers of ecological change) include changes in Urbanisation and associated development is very water quality (e.g. acid mine drainage, waste water high on the agenda in Gauteng Province, with the from treatment plants, fertilizer and pesticide runoff) result that massive pressure is placed on open areas, and water flow regimes (e.g. catchment hardening in which most, if not all of these wetlands are situated. and increased storm water flows).20 Consequently, 97% of the wetland ecosystems and 29% of the river Another main driver of ecological change on the ecosystem types are threatened (Nel & Driver, 2012) waterbodies of EMM is urbanisation, and the associated activities. For example, according to Thirteen of the 17 waste water treatment works Naledzi (2007), hill-slope seep wetlands in Birch (WWTW) in the EMM show trends of increased risk Acres, Tembisa, were developed into a residential profiles from 2009 to 2011, meaning that wastewater area and a shopping complex. Amongst those that treatment systems pose a risk to the receiving were still visible, many of them are under threat or environment and public health in the short to medium have large impacts from disturbance factors such term future. Three plants are in high-risk space and as IAPs, residential and industrial development, need urgent and targeted attention – Vlakplaats, Jan commercial and/or subsistence cultivation, grazing, Smuts and Welgedacht (Green Drop Report 2011). burning, roads and railway lines, dams, drainage channels and diversions and mining/ quarrying and According to a detailed study done by Naledzi in 2007, other excavations (Naledzi, 2007). there were originally approximately 695 identifiable wetlands and other watercourses. Yet by the time Washing of clothes in informal settlements was found of the study only 206 were found during ground- to be the single most important source of grey water truthing. Many of the wetlands were transformed generation, accounting for a third to almost half of

34 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 3.8 drivers of ecological change (continued)

all grey water generated. The smallest contribution The natural systems in EMM are overshadowed by comes from water used for cleaning (approx. 10%) contributions from sewage works and mining. The while bathing and washing dishes accounts for increase in urbanisation has seen surface water run- equal proportions of the reminder. Chemical and off increase by almost 300%. The higher river flood microbiological analyses of grey water, sampled at peaks and levels pose a threat to all developments selected sites across the four study areas, revealed (mainly informal housing) within designated flood significant variations in quality between the different zones. Many parts of Tembisa, Katlehong, Tsakane sites, without allowing for clear distinctions between and Nigel are at risk (SOER, 2004). the impacts of different brands of detergents such as soaps, washing powder and dish washing liquids The water quality is generally poor in all river/stream (Mofukeng, 2008). systems within Ekurhuleni. The poor management of stormwater, sewage treatment plants, industries Contrary to the literature, E. coli contamination was and agricultural activities all contributes greatly to found not be confined to bath and kitchen waste the negative impacts on watercourse systems (SOER, water only, but also appeared in laundry water, 2004). frequently exceeding values stipulated in the general standards of waste water or effluent in South Africa. Water quality index values for rivers and streams in This is of particular concern since some of the grey the EMM generally ranges from poor to fair. According water is disposed of into stormwater canals and in to a study conducted by Bodenstein et al. (2004) the other non-formal ways, which allows for subsequent aquatic macro-invertebrate diversity is very poor. The exposure of humans to the contaminated waste quality of the aquatic habitats was, in part, to blame for water. In order to facilitate rapid drainage in some this. Bodenstein et al. (2004) found that most streams instances respondents created their own grey water and rivers suffer from industrial and urban pollution, disposal infrastructure. For example, by digging due to illegal industrial discharges, ill-managed and open wastewater trenches across backyard borders. polluted storm water, waste water treatment works Regarding potential health risks it is to be noted that do not comply to effluent discharge criteria, that at least one respondent reported the use of littering and illegal dumping, all of which contribute the water resource (Blesbokspruit) as toilet facility towards erosion and degradation of the streams and (Mofukeng, 2008). rivers. This situation in most cases has worsened over the years from 2004 to the present. The paved surfaces of urban areas cause an increase in surface run-off during the wet summer months Most of the wetlands in the EMM are dominated or and a decrease in sub-surface flow during the winter choked by reeds (Phragmites spp. and Typha capensis). months (Scott et al., 1996). In general, the direct use Although generally seen as useless areas by many of river water for industrial use has declined over the people in terms of urbanisation or agriculture, past few years due to declining water quality and the wetlands perform vital functions, most of which increased accessibility to potable water (DWAF, 1999). depend on the presence of dense stands of reeds rushes and other large emergent plants. Firstly these The damming of most rivers and streams is a common wetlands are remarkably effective flood-control problem, associated presently and historically with agents, forcing water to spread and reduce their agricultural activities in the region. Many of the rivers damaging effects. It also ameliorates the impacts of have been canalised, mostly for stormwater control floods by storing and slowly releasing floodwater to in urban areas or for agricultural purposes. The ever- river channels. This feature reduces flood peaks and increasing urbanisation pressures in the area has extends time taken for floodwater to drain to rivers. caused many of the natural systems in the area to a Probably the most important feature of wetlands is downward cycle of deterioration. their ability to act as natural filters, trapping sediment,

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 35 3.8 drivers of ecological change (continued)

nutrients and even pathogenic bacteria. This action is for an enormous variety of plants and animals, both brought about by the plants causing the water to flow terrestrial and aquatic. Hundreds of waterfowl have much slower and thus drop its silt, and at the same been observed in the wetland areas during the study time, the plants and microbes associated with them period, emphasising their importance in refuge areas extract nutrients for their own growth. The wetlands even more (Davies & Day, 1998; Rand Water, 1998). furthermore provide vital habitat, food and shelter

Figure 23: Patrick Ganda, environmental officer at Figure 24: Tinos Mauchira, an employee on the Grootvaly Blesbokspruit Wetland Reserve with Tamuka’s plot, holds two dead koi fish found in the the invasive Pampass grass in the reserve.21 polluted water of the Blesbokspruit.22

36 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 4 | Disaster Management and Climate Change

Disaster means a progressive or sudden, widespread or localised, natural or human-caused ‘ occurrence which is a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources. Disaster Management Act No. 57 of 2002 ’

The National Disaster Management Act, Act 57 of 2002 integrated development plan. This is also directed as directs in section 53(2) (a) that a disaster management such by the Local Government: Municipal Systems plan must form an integral part of the municipality’s Act, Act 32 of 2000 in section 26(g).

4.1 Disaster Management in the Municipality

The Ekurhuleni Corporate Disaster Management Plan development and the integration of disaster risk (CDMP) aims at gearing Ekurhuleni to identify and reduction measures must be a coordinated focus then reduce disaster risk through proper and timely of all stakeholders. It is only through sustainable risk reduction actions as well as the execution of development which considers the impact of disaster responses. development on future generations that the EMM will be able to leave a legacy of a healthy and safe world The CDMP of Ekurhuleni predetermines, to the extent for all to be enjoyed. possible, actions to be taken by all departments, stakeholders and cooperating private organisations, The Ekurhuleni CDMP provides the results of to prevent disasters and to reduce the vulnerability consultation of disaster risk reduction and response of EMM residents to any disasters that may occur. role-players. Each Department of Council has The plan further aims to establish capabilities for identified its disaster responsibilities to ensure that protecting citizens from the effects of disasters and any response to a disaster means that responders do for mechanisms to respond effectively to the actual not work against each other, but rather complement occurrence of disasters, and then to provide for each other to ensure a speedy recovery from the recovery in the aftermath of any disaster involving disaster. The plan further aims to ensure that extensive damage or other debilitating influence on sustainable development remains just that, by the the normal pattern of life within the community of application of disaster management principals related the municipality. to disaster risk reduction, mitigation of disaster risks and prevention into developmental projects. This is The CDMP provides the basis for the development of accomplished by the participation of the function in risk specific plans as well as Departmental Disaster the Development Facilitation Committee as well as Management Plans, which takes into account other committees whose primary functions are related the peculiarities of different risks. A flood, as an to the identified disaster risks, i.e. Environmental example, has a different risk profile to drought and Management Department, Health Department and an earthquake has a different risk profile to a toxic Disaster and Emergency Management Services chemical release. Department (Corporate Disaster Management Plan 2011). Disaster Management is the business of all stakeholders in Ekurhuleni and so the integration of disaster response plans, the integration of sustainable

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 37 4.2 Risk Mapping

Risks or hazards with a direct and or indirect/potential ●● Mine tremors impact on wetlands in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan ●● Sasol Gas pipeline leaks and explosions Municipality include: ●● Petronet pipelines Vulnerabilities Natural hazards ●● Residents living in unsafe areas (dolomite, mine ●● Lightning strikes causing fires and / or damage to: dumps, along major road and rail corridors, etc). –– Power lines ●● Residents in informal settlements close to –– Residential, commercial and industrial hazards, i.e. gas and fuel pipelines, high tension buildings electrical / overhead wires. –– Grazing land/agricultural fields ●● Residents not trained in disaster risk reduction actions and preparedness. Settlements ●● Lack of awareness of disaster risks. ●● Floods – especially close to or affecting informal As noted in Section 3.6, wetlands are considered settlements to be high-value ecological infrastructure as they ●● Extreme weather events (extreme cold or heat provide a substantial number of ecosystem services waves; Strong winds and tornadoes) to the surrounding local area as well as downstream. ●● Fires in informal settlements Wetlands also have the ability to buffer and reduce the impacts of a substantial array of disasters including ●● Subsidence in dolomite areas flooding, drought, and inconsistent water supply, and ●● Earthquakes soil erosion, loss of biodiversity and groundwater ●● Thunderstorms pollution. Given the severity of the potential impacts ●● Health related disasters these risks pose to the EMM, wetlands can play a key Technological hazards role in disaster risk mitigation within the Metro. This ●● Hazardous material spills and accidents is summarised in Table 4 below: (roads, rail and air)

Table 4 Role of wetlands in disaster risk mitigation Disaster Role of Wetlands is Disaster Risk Mitigation23 Flooding Wetlands have the ability to reduce the velocity of flowing water and absorb some of the water into the wetland system. As such, rather than the flood water moving through the system in one go, water is retained and released at a slower rate. This means that not only is the intensity of the flood reduced or prevented all together, thereby reducing the potential impact on infrastructure and housing downstream, but there is sustained water flow long after the rainfall event. Inconsistent Water Wetlands have the ability to act like sponges in that throughout the rainy season they absorb Flow & Drought water. During the dry season, and even in times of drought, this water is slowly released thereby ensuring that rivers and streams maintain sustainable flows and supply continuous water despite lack of rainfall. Groundwater Wetlands have the ability to purify water by trapping pollutants, sediments, excess nutrients Pollution (especially nitrogen and phosphorus), heavy metals, disease-causing bacteria and viruses, and synthesized organic pollutants such as pesticides, thereby ensuring that the water leaving the wetland is cleaner than the water that entered it. Loss of Wetlands can be considered as biodiversity hotspots in themselves as they provide key habitat Biodiversity to a number of plant and animal species. Often these species are considered to be unique and are completely dependent on the system. Maintaining healthy wetlands therefore can contribute to halting loss of biodiversity within the municipality. Soil Erosion Due to the fact that wetlands are covered by specially adapted vegetation, little to no erosion occurs in wetland areas as the wetland plants have the ability to stabilise and bind the soil, reducing the risk of top soil loss downstream.

38 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Climate change’ means a change of climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human ‘ activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable time periods. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)’

In simpler terms, climate change can best be described will increase the frequency at which some natural as a long term change in the Earth’s global climate hazards occur, especially extreme weather events, patterns including shifts in historical seasonality, rainfall and introduce new incremental impacts that are less patterns and average temperature ranges. These shifts immediate. are caused by an increase in global temperatures which are caused by increasing greenhouse gases (e.g. 4.3.1 Current Climate Information carbon dioxide) being emitted into the atmosphere. Temperature: The rising of greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere ●● Ekurhuleni falls in the Highveld region of the is caused by large scale human activities including but Gauteng Province and experiences typical not limited to industry, agriculture, transport and land Highveld climate conditions: use change. As a result, the long term historical climate ●● Historically, the hottest months (summer) for trend is shifting towards unstable and unpredictable Ekurhuleni are December, January and February future climate conditions. where temperatures average around 25°C. ●● The coldest months (winter) are June, July and An increasing number of cities around the world August where temperatures below freezing are have begun to plan for climate change by developing common in winter. stand-alone climate plans or incorporating climate ●● The highest temperatures are generally considerations into existing plans, policies and projects. experienced in January.

The context of climate change within EMM means Rainfall: that significant efforts need to be made across all ●● More than 80% of the annual rainfall falls spheres within the organisational structures of our between October and March, mainly as a result local government. The vision of the municipality to of thunderstorms, with the highest amount of develop into Africa’s first Aerotropolis, meaning that rainfall falling in December (wettest month). functioning and infrastructural fabric needs to cater ●● The least amount of rainfall occurs during the for all aspects of change and be resilient at the same winter months (May- August). The driest month time. As such EMM has identified climate change and is July. the possible impacts thereof as a paramount aspect ●● Average rainfall is 715 mm to 735 mm annually. of integrated planning within the municipality. ●● Hail can be expected periodically and mild damage to fruit harvests usually occurs in two out Climate change impacts range from an increase in of three years, while severe damage occurs every extreme weather events such as hotter temperatures two out of five years. and flooding. The specific impacts on each city will ●● Severe frost occurs frequently from mid-April depend on the actual changes in climate experienced, to September. which will vary from place to place. Climate change

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 39 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Historical climate monthly averages JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO 150 30 Rainfall 1979 to 2000 Tmax 1979 to 2000 Tmin 1979 to 2000

125 25 Temperature (degrees C)

100 20

75 15 Rainfall (mm) 50 10

25 5

0 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com

Figure 25: Historical climate monthly averages for EMM.24

4.3.2 Future Climate Info Maximum Temperature:

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Average maximum temperature RCP 8.5 4

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060

3.5

2.5

1.5 Average maximum temperature RCP 8.5 ( °C ) 1 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com

Figure 26: Average maximum temperatures for EMM.25

40 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Minimum Temperature: ●● There will be a definiteincrease (red) in ●● Summer temperatures will increase slightly more than average monthly temperatures throughout the winter temperatures. the year. ●● The summer maximum temperature range will increase ●● Overall increase in monthly average slightly more than the minimum temperature range temperatures will most likely be between with an associated increased risk of heat waves. 0.5 – 2.5 °C.

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Average minimum temperature RCP 8.5 4

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060 3.5

2.5

1.5

1 Average minimum temperature RCP 8.5 ( °C ) 0.5 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com Figure 27: Average minimum temperate for EMM. Rainfall: ●● Overall no consistent indication on the direction of ●● Rainfall quantity is likely to decrease overall change. however there could be an increase in the ●● Despite uncertainty however, models generally frequency and intensity of rainfall events during indicate that that there will be a shift to generally the summer months. drier conditions overall, particularly in the winter ●● It is anticipated that there will be an exacerbation months. of the existing climate conditions with the ●● Models also indicate that there will be a shift in exception of a decrease in the number of frost timing of seasonal rainfall as well as a shift in the days occurring in winter. rainfall patterns.

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Total monthly rainfall RCP 8.5 40

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060

-20 Total monthly rainfall RCP 8.5 ( mm )

-40 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com Figure 28: Total monthly rainfall for EMM.26

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 41 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Count of Wet Days:

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Count of wet days RCP 8.5 3

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060

-1

Count of wet days RCP 8.5 ( ) -2

-3 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com

Figure 29: Count of wet days for EMM.27

Mean Dry Spells:

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Mean dry spell durations RCP 8.5 20

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060 15

-5

-10 Mean dry spell durations RCP 8.5 ( days )

-15 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com

Figure 30: Mean dry spells for EMM.28

42 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 4.3 Climate Change in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (continued)

Frost Days:

JOHANNESBURG INTNL. AIRPO ( altitude 1720m ) Frost days (tmin < 0°) RCP 8.5 0.5

Observed 1979 to 2000 . (increase) (decrease) 10th to 90th percentile range 2040 - 2060

-0.5

-1

-1.5

-2 Frost days (tmin < 0°) RCP 8.5 ( )

-2.5 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Highcharts.com

Figure 31: Frost days for EMM.29

4.3.3 Consequences ●● Increasing monthly temperatures and uncertain these strategically important ecosystems can offer rainfall patterns combined with the increased communities protection from climate change impacts. duration of hot and dry spells between rainy EbA programmes are often more cost-effective than seasons results in increased risk of more severe ‘engineered’ solutions and provide valuable day-to- exacerbated dry periods in the winter months and day ecosystem services such as water and food and a decrease in a the number of frost days in winter. livelihood opportunities to communities. Drought is also a risk. ●● Increasing uncertainty of rainfall patterns could result in an increase in the magnitude and frequency of rainfall events resulting in increased risk of periodic flooding and more intense hail storms in the summer months.

Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is the use of biodiversity and ecosystem services for adapting to the impacts of climate change. Healthy, intact ecological infrastructure such as wetlands, coastal dunes and forests help to protect and buffer communities from the impacts of climate change, such as heavy Figure 32: Schematic representation on the storms, floods and storm surges. Maintenance of hydrological buffering capability of wetlands.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 43 5 | Governance & Management

South Africa has an extensive legislative framework key legislation and policies as well as the governance concerning the environment and biodiversity is structure within EMM which leads to the current considered in both development planning as well as wetland management strategy within the Metro. national government priorities. This section outlines

5.1 Policy Framework

The following list of South African legislation, policies direction (e.g. for water extraction) for specific actions. and strategies is a starting point and not exhaustive. Others provide the ‘Terms of Reference’ and authority Some of the items below (Table 5) set out explicit for wetland conservation and management.

Table 5 Legislative framework governing wetlands in Ekurhuleni LEGISLATION/ POLICY/ STRATEGY HOW IT RELATES TO WETLANDS

Legislation The Constitution Overarching principles of care for the environment. The National Water Act Water use control, including extraction and construction within the vicinity of a watercourse or wetland. The National Environmental Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for the development of a new Management Act or disturbed site within the vicinity of a watercourse or wetland. The National Environmental Protection of biodiversity, and the formulation of a number of tools such Management: Biodiversity Act as bioregional plans, and Threatened Ecosystem lists that feed into land- use planning and EIAs. National Environmental Management: All matters related to invasive species management (fauna and flora). Biodiversity Act – Alien and Invasive Species Regulations National Environmental Management: Protection of national parks, protected areas and conservation sites. This Protected Areas Act includes the protection of wetland site. The Conservation of Agricultural Protect the utilization of the natural agricultural resources to promote Resources Act the conservation of the soil, the water sources and the vegetation and the combating of weeds and invasive plants. National Environmental Management: Regulation of illegal dumping. Waste Act The Municipal Systems Act Role of local governments and the requirements for IDPs and SDFs and disaster management. Policies National Development Plan, and The NDP sets out measures to protect natural resources in South Africa. associated Medium Term Strategic Through the creation of the MTSF and associated ‘Delivery Agreements’, Framework. required outputs and targets are set. continued

44 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 5.1 policy framework (continued)

Table 5 Legislative framework governing wetlands in Ekurhuleni LEGISLATION/ POLICY/ STRATEGY HOW IT RELATES TO WETLANDS Local and Provincial Development Is the green economy or the role of biodiversity considered? Policies Municipal planning IDPs Overall strategy document for a municipality. SDFs Spatial translation (i.e. a map) of the IDP. Open Space Frameworks Demarcation of municipal Open Space areas. Environmental Management Frameworks Map and land use guidelines for areas of environmental importance. Sector Plans e.g. Disaster Management Plans. Ekurhuleni Environmental Policy Although there are a number of statutory mandates and responsibilities that require Local Government to develop environmental policies, the real purpose of a policy should be linked to the possibilities for an improved living and working environment for the area of focus. This can be expressed simply as two main benefits to be pursued: making Ekurhuleni a desirable place to be in on the one hand, and turning it into a globally acceptable efficient and clean industrial and transportation nexus on the other. Ekurhuleni Bioregional plan As published in terms of the Biodiversity Act. Strategies The National Biodiversity Framework Provides biodiversity targets for South Africa. National Water Resource Strategy Speaks to protection and rehabilitation of wetlands. Local or Provincial Climate Change Where they exist, do they include biodiversity/wetlands as important for Strategies mitigation and adaptation? Other Bioregional plans (draft or gazetted) Maps Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs). Spatial Planning and Land Use Provides a framework for spatial planning and land use management in Management Act South Africa. It sets out in its definitions that municipal planning is primarily the executive function of the local sphere of government and requires that biodiversity is adequately considered in spatial planning. Disaster Management Amendment Bill Outlines how ecosystems should be considered in the updated Disaster Management Act.

5.2 Wetland Management within the Municipality

The Environmental Resource Department in Compliance and Environmental Support Services. The Ekurhuleni is dedicated to the protection of natural Environmental Protection and Resilience Division is the resources, the department has five divisions: Strategic division where biodiversity and wetlands management Planning, Infrastructure Planning and Co-ordination, staff are placed, below is the organogram ofthe Environmental Protection and Resilience, Legislative Environmental Protection and Resilience Division.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 45 5.2 Wetland management within the municipality (continued)

The department within EMM in charge of wetland developed cross through wetlands and rivers, management ensure rehabilitation and maintenance this leads to bridges being built, and due to of wetlands. Activities include, erecting gabion insufficient maintenance of these culverts they structure and weirs as well as clearing of litter, get blocked and cause flooding. Most of the water hyacinth and other invasive alien vegetation. Metro’s storm water discharges into wetlands and It consists of a Manager, one Senior Environmental rivers. During the rainy season, the amount of Officer, one Water Master Operator and eight water flowing into these systems is higher which Wetland Attendants. normally leads to flooding and erosion. ●● Water Services – responsible for the bulk supply The following are departments which are directly or of drinking water. indirectly involved/impact on wetlands: ●● Disaster Management – responsible for the ●● Real Estates: Parks Division – responsible for the management of all disasters occurring within maintenance of all park areas within Ekurhuleni. the Metro. Environmental Resource Management department ●● Economic Development – responsible for local (ERM) normally works closely with Parks division. economic development, which includes tourism. ●● Human Settlements – responsible for the ●● Health and Social Development – responsible for development of sustainable human settlement, the health and well-being of the community. most of the low cost housing are developed close ●● Transport – responsible sustainable transport to wetlands and this results in most wetlands planning. Most major freeways pass through being degraded, especially since they are used as Ekurhuleni and most industries are also situated dumping sites. within the Metro. During rainy season, various ●● Roads and Storm Water – responsible for oils from the roads flow into the wetlands and development of roads and the management of streams which leads to pollution of the said storm water. Majority of the roads which are systems.

ORGANOGRAM DH: Environmental Protection and Resilience

Admin PA/Secretary

Manager: Interated Manager: Education & Pollution Control Awareness Manager: Wetlands (vacant)

1 × Snr Environmental 1 × Snr Environmental 1 × Environmental 3 × Assistant Chief Officer Officer Officer

3 × Snr Environmental 1 × Pollution Control 3 × Environmental 2 × Water Master 8 × Wetland Health Pratitioners Officer Officers Operators Attendants

2 × Air quality Specialists (Contract expires 31/12/15)

Figure 33: Organogram showing where the Wetlands division is situated with the EMM structure.

46 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report 6 | Local and regional partnerships and programmes

Ekurhuleni has embarked on several wetland (Homestead, Civic, Middle and Kleinfontein). rehabilitation and maintenance projects, these ●● Invasive alien management of Blesbokspruit involve installation of weirs and gabions, eradication RAMSAR site: Planned invasive alien plant control; of IAPs, removal and safe disposal of water grass, Aerial spraying to be conducted twice a year. hyacinth and Mexican lilies. Ongoing rehabilitation What is needed is a controlled scientific approach and maintenance work is currently being undertaken to manage the phragmites and Typha capensis in Germiston Lake, Boksburg Lake and Upper Rietvlei to improve water flow and the overall habitat for Wetland. Other wetland related projects include: the various bird species for their various habitat ●● Rehabilitation of Kaalspruit wetland in Tembisa: needs. stabilization and re-vegetation of stream banks ●● Murray Park upgrade: Construction of parking and installation of weirs and gabion structures area, playground area, upgrade of ablutions, ●● Rehabilitation of Natalspruit in Tembelisha: landscaping. Upgrade infrastructure – water, Vegetation, installation of weirs and gabions electricity, sewerage structures ●● Controlled and managed Invasive alien plants at Ekurhuleni is in partnership with all the other spheres Benoni Lakes: Planned invasive alien management of government, especially DEA’s Working for Wetlands programme to be completed at four lakes programme.

Figure 34: Delegates at the Ekurhuleni Wetland Strategy and Action Planning workshop.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 47 7 | Communication and Public Awareness

Communication, education and public awareness reduce wetland loss and degradation. This section (CEPA) play an essential role in gaining the cooperation details the current activities that the municipality and collaboration of individuals and organizations in engages in for raising awareness and educating the the public, political and economic sectors to act to community at large.

7.1 Communication and Education

Currently, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality on wetlands and biodiversity. The Ekurhuleni does not have an environmental education strategy, Metropolitan Municipality usually has an extensive but does have an Environmental Education and annual programme for the month of February, in Awareness unit within the Environmental Protection celebration of World Wetlands Month and World and Resilience division. The purpose of the unit is to Wetlands Day, and in so doing, creating awareness create environmental awareness within departments and communicating relevant issues regarding in Ekurhuleni and in the Metro as a whole. The unit wetlands. runs awareness campaigns throughout the year on different aspects of the environment including

7.2 Public Participation and Awareness

All projects that Ekurhuleni embarks on, where a Consultants are normally appointed to conduct public public participation and awareness component is participation. Ekurhuleni has environmental forums required (whether by law or as good practise), the where communities are engaged and environmental public is engaged extensively. awareness is created.

Figure 35 & 36: LAB Wetlands SA project municipal delegates including EMM receiving on the ground wetland and Google Earth training at the 2016 National Wetlands Indaba.

48 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report Conclusion

The aim of the Ekurhuleni Wetland Report was to The report indicates sound knowledge and bring together all the available wetland related understanding of the wetland ecosystems within information for Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality the municipality. A lot is also known about their as well as highlight gaps where wetland management locations, status, main use and impacts, possible within the municipality could be strengthened going opportunities and what is needed to improve the forward. overall management and protection of wetlands. The municipality has identified a real need for improved Though the municipality has a designated Wetland wetland management and protection in the region, unit, the destruction and loss of wetlands in the area perhaps exploring the possibilities of creating a is occurring at an alarming rate, and due to ever- holistic platform for knowledge and expertise sharing present stresses (including but not limited mining, (through creating a designated forum) as well as metro infilling, pollution, development) the impact on these wide wetland management plan (Wetland Strategy/ vital ecosystems are set to continue and worsen over Action Plan). These possibilities will be continuously the coming years. and extensively explored during the course of the LAB Wetlands SA project. The main natural feature in Ekurhuleni is the amount of waterbodies located in the area. The conditions of most of these waterbodies are poor due to insufficient management of sewer spillages, littering, dumping, mining, development and agriculture. Efforts should be made to manage these waterbodies collectively within all affected departments within the Metro. Rehabilitation measures that are undertaken should also be performed holistically. There is also a real need for improved mapping of wetlands and update of wetland information for the municipality.

Figure 37: Fulvous Ducks species found at the Blesbokspruit wetland (Dendrocygna bicolor).

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 49 Acknowledgements

The compilation of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan ICLEI AS and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Municipality Wetlands Report would not have been would also like to specifically thank the following for possible without the significant contribution and their meaningful contributions to the report: support from the many active stakeholders who currently work within metro region. The EMM is in ●● Charl van der Merwe of the Blesbokspruit the unique position of having undergone numerous Trust for reviewing the report and providing and extensive studies relating to watercourses in the information on the Blesbokspruit RAMSAR site. municipality, and a wealth of literature documentation ●● Mbali Kubheka of the Department of is available as a result. This report drew and built on Environmental Affairs: Working for Wetlands existing policies, strategies and frameworks for EMM. Programme for providing basic wetland information as well as photographs of wetlands, ICLEI AS and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality distinctive wetland (mottled) soils and key would like to thank USAID (United States Agency for wetland vegetation. International Development), the project funders, ●● Ryan Fisher of ICLEI AS for being the principle without whom the compilation of the Wetland Report author of this report and for guiding the would not be possible, as well as the Project Partners: implementation of the LAB: Wetlands South Africa Department of Environmental Affairs, South African project in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. Local Government Associated, Working for Wetlands ●● Vuyelwa Bahlekazi and Patricia Sithebe as well as the South African National Biodiversity of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Institute for the unfailing support for the project for providing relevant information for and received to date. contributing to the development of this report.

50 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report Definitions as per EMM Bioregional Plan

Biodiversity Assets Species, ecosystems and other biodiversity- related resources that generate ecosystem services, support livelihoods and provide foundation for economic growth, social development and human wellbeing.

Biodiversity Planning Spatial planning to identify geographic areas of importance for biodiversity.

Biome An ecological unit of wide extent, characterised by complexes of plant communities and associated animal communities and ecosystem and determined mainly by climatic factors and soil exist in small discontinuous patches.

Bioregional plan (published in A map of Critical Biodiversity Areas and Ecological Support Areas, for a terms of the Biodiversity Act): municipality or group of municipalities, accompanied by contextual and supporting GIS data. The map must be produced using the principles and methods of systematic biodiversity planning, in accordance with the Guidelines for Bioregional Plans. A bioregional plan represents the biodiversity sector’s input into planning and decision-making in a range of other sectors.

Catchment The area contributing to run-off at a particular point in a river system.

Conservation area Areas of land not formally protected by law but informally protected by the current owners and users and managed at least partly for biodiversity conservation.

Critical Biodiversity Area Areas required to meet biodiversity targets for ecosystems, species or ecological processes, as identified in a systematic biodiversity plan. May be terrestrial or aquatic.

Critically endangered An ecosystem type that has very little of its original extent (measured as ecosystem area, length or volume) left in natural or near-natural condition. Most of the ecosystem type has been severely or moderately modified from its natural state. The ecosystem is most likely to have lost much of its natural structure and functioning, and species associated with the ecosystem may have been lost.

Ecological infrastructure The stock of ecosystems and species, or natural capital, that provides a flow of essential ecosystem services to human communities. Networks of ecological infrastructure may take the form of large tracts of natural land or ocean, or small remaining patches or corridors embedded in production landscapes. If ecological infrastructure is degraded or lost, the flow of ecosystem services will diminish. Ecological infrastructure is just as important as built infrastructure for providing vital services that underpin social and economic activity.

Ecological Support Area An area that is not essential for meeting biodiversity targets but plays an important role in supporting the ecological functioning of one or more Critical Biodiversity Areas or in delivering ecosystem services. May be terrestrial or aquatic.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 51 Definitions as per EMM Bioregional Plan (continued)

Ecosystem services The benefits that people obtain from ecosystems, including provisioning services (such as food and water), regulating services (such as flood control), cultural services (such as recreational benefits), and supporting services (such as nutrient cycling, carbon storage) that maintain the conditions for life on Earth.

Freshwater Ecosystem A river or wetland that is required to meet biodiversity targets for freshwater Priority Area ecosystems.

Habitat The natural home of species of plants and animals.

Hydromorphic soil A soil that in its undrained condition is saturated or flooded long enough to develop anaerobic conditions favouring growth and regeneration of hydrophytes vegetation.

Hydrology The study of the occurrence, distribution and movement of water over, on and under the land surface.

Hydrophyte Any plant that grows in water or on a substratum that is at least periodically deficient in oxygen as a result of soil saturation or flooding.

Mottles Soils with variegated colour patterns are described as being mottled, with the background colour referred to as the matrix and the spots or blotches of colour referred to as mottles.

Peat A dark brown or black organic soil layer, composed of partly decomposed plant matter and formed under permanently saturated conditions.

Perennial Flows all year round.

Permanent zone of wetness The inner zone of a wetland that is permanently saturated.

Present Ecological State A set of categories for describing the ecological condition of rivers, wetlands and estuaries.

Ramsar Site30 Ramsar Sites are designated because they meet the Criteria for identifying Wetlands of International Importance. The first criterion refers to Sites containing representative, rare or unique wetland types, and the other eight cover Sites of international importance for conserving biological diversity. These criteria emphasize the importance the Convention places on sustaining biodiversity.

Saturated Zone The zone in which the soils and rock structure are saturated with water.

52 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report Resources

Barnard, H.C. 2000. An Explanation of the 1:500 000 EMF. 2007. Environmental Framework for general hydrogeological map: Johannesburg 2526. Ekurhuleni. June 2007. Department of Water Affairs & Forestry (DWAF). Freshwater Ecosystem Atlas. 2011. WRC, SANBI. Bird Life South Africa http://www.birdlife.org.za/ Gilau, R. 2011. Sensitivity analysis of alternative soil conservation/important-bird-areas/iba-directory/ loss prediction model for urban impoundments. item/162-sa021-blesbokspruit. 12th International conference on urban drainage, Bioregional Plan for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Porto Alegre, Brazil. 11 – 16 September 2011. Municipality. November 2011. Green Drop Report. 2011. Chapter 5: Gauteng Bodenstein, J.A., P.H. van Eeden, J. Legadima & Province. Dept. Water & Sanitation. J. Chaka. 2004. A preliminary assessment of the I-Spot http://www.ispotnature.org. present ecological stat of the major rivers and stream within the northern service delivery region Kotze, D.C., & Breen, C. 2000. Wetland-Use; of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. A wetland management decision system for South Kempton Park. African fresh water palustrine wetlands. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria. Breen, C., J. Dini, W. Ellery, S. Mitchell, & M. Uys (eds.). 2008. Wetland management series: A Kotze, D.C., Marneweck, G.C., Batchelor, A.L., technique for rapidly assessing ecosystem services Lindley, D.S. & Collins, N.B. 2005. Wet-Ecoservices. supplied by wetlands. WRC report: TT339/08. A Technique for rapidly assessing ecosystem services supplied by wetlands. Unpublished report. Davies, B & J. Day. 1998. Vanishing waters. University of Cape Town Press, Cape Town. Macfarlane, D.M., Kotze, D. Walters, D., Ellery, W., Koopman, V., Goodman, P. & Goge, C. 2005. WET- DEA, SALGA, CoGTA. 2012. Let’s Respond Toolkit. Health: a technique for rapidly assessing wetland A toolkit to assist in integrating climate change health. Unpublished draft report submitted to the risks and opportunities into municipal planning. Water Research Commission, Pretoria. http://www2.giz.de/urbanet/focus/docdetail. asp?number=10970. Mofukeng, N. 2008. The grey water situation in informal settlements of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan DEAT. 2009. Guideline Regarding the Determination Municipality – Eastern Region (Gauteng Province). of Bioregions and the Preparation and Publication of Mini-Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment for Bioregional Plans (Government Gazette No.32006, a Master’s Degree. NWU, Potchefstroom. November 16 March 2009). 2008. Department Water Affairs & Forestry (DWAF). 1999. Naledzi. 2007. Wetland Inventory Report. Development of a Water Quality Management Plan Identification, classification, assessment and for the Klip River Catchment. Phase 1: Situation delineation of wetlands within the Ekurhuleni Analysis. Draft Final Report. Pretoria. Metropolitan Municipality (EMM). May 2007. Naledzi Driver A., Sink, K.J., Nel, J.N., Holness, S., Van Niekerk, Environmental Consultants cc. L., Daniels, F., Jonas, Z., Majiedt, P.A., Harris, L. & National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Maze, K. 2012. National Biodiversity Assessment Act No. 10 of 2004. 2011: An assessment of South Africa’s biodiversity and ecosystems. Synthesis Report. South African National Water Act No. 36 of 1998. National Biodiversity Institute and Department of Nel, J.L., Driver A., Strydom W., Maherry A., Petersen Environmental Affairs, Pretoria. C., Roux D.J., Nienaber S., van Deventer H, Smith- Ekurhuleni Growth and Development Strategy 2025 Adao LB and Hill L. 2011. Atlas of Freshwater (GDS, 2025). Ecosystem Priority Areas in South Africa: Maps

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 53 Resources (continued)

to support sustainable development of water SANBI BGIS Mapping Tool. 2016. http://bgis.sanbi. resources. WRC Report No. TT 500/11, Water org/MapViewer. Research Commission, Pretoria. SANBI. 2004. National Spatial Biodiversity Nel, J.L., & A. Driver. 2012. National Biodiversity Assessment http://bgis.sanbi.org/NSBA/project.asp. Assessment 2011: Technical Report. Volume 2: SANBI. 2010. Municipal Biodiversity Summaries Freshwater Component. CSIR Report Number CSIR/ Project http://bgis.sanbi.org/municipalities/ NRE/ECO/IR/2012/0022/A. Council for Scientific and municipality.asp. Industrial Research, Stellenbosch. SANBI. 2011. National Biodiversity Assessment Ollis, D.J., Snaddon, K., Job, N. & Mbona, N. 2013. http://bgis.sanbi.org/nba/project.asp. Classification system for wetlands and other aquatic ecosystems in South Africa. User manual: Inland SANBI. 2014. Biodiversity Mainstreaming Toolbox systems. SANBI Biodiversity Series 22. SANBI, for land-use planning and development in Gauteng. Pretoria. Compiled by ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability. http://cbc.iclei.org/Content/Docs/ Palmer, R.W., Turpie, J., Marnewick, G.C. & Batchelor, Gauteng%20Biodiversity%20Mainstreaming%20 A.L. (2002). Ecological and evaluation of wetlands Toolbox_final.pdf. in the upper Olifants River catchment, South Africa. WRC Report No. 1162/1/02. Water Research SOER. 2004. State of the Environment Report 2004. Commission, Pretoria. (www.soer.deat.gov.za). Ramsar Convention on Wetlands http://www. Stewart, S. 1996. Water Quality Impact Assessment ramsar.org/about/the-importance-of-wetlands. of Johannesburg’s Southern Wastewater Treatment Works on the Klip River. Volume 2. Part one: Ramsar Sites of International Importance: http:// Background to the Study and Overview of Study www.ramsar.org/sites-countries/the-ramsar-sites. Area. Johannesburg. Rand Water. 1998. The Socio-Economic Value of WRC. 2011. Implementation Manual for Freshwater Wetlands in Highly Industrialised Catchments: Ecosystem Priority Areas, WRC Report No. Development of a Programme for the Klip River 1801/1/11. http://bgis.sanbi.org/nfepa/NFEPA_ Catchment. Vol. 2 no. 1. 64 pp. Rand Water Head Implementation_Manual.pdf. Office, Rietvlei, South Africa. Retief, E. undated. Guide to access avian data for environmental impact assessment reports. Birdlife South Africa. Russi, D. Brink, P. Farmer, A. Badura, T. Coates, D. Förster, J. Kumar, R. Davidson, N. 2013. The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity for Water and Wetlands. IEEP, London and Brussels; RAMSAR Secretariat, Gland.

54 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report Footnotes

1. National Biodiversity Assessment, 2011. 2. Images courtesy of Mbali Kubheka from Working for Wetlands. 3. SANBI Classification System for Wetlands and other Aquatic Ecosystems in South Africa. 4. “The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity for Water and Wetlands” (Russi et al., 2013). 5. I-Spot (http://www.ispotnature.org/node/464568). 6. I-Spot (http://www.ispotnature.org/node/859460). 7. EMM Bioregional Plan, 2014. 8. EMM Environmental Management Framework, 2007. 9. EMM Wetland Inventory, 2007. 10. Image sourced from i-Spot (http://www.ispotnature.org/node/861715?nav=related). 11. Municipal Demarcation Board, ESRI Online, SANBI, NFEPA, Department of Trade & Industry. 12. EMM Environmental Management Framework, 2007. 13. http://albertonrecord.co.za/136210/scholars-commit-to-safeguarding-wetlands/. 14. Gauteng Tourism Authority: http://www.gauteng.net/attractions/blesbokspruit. 15. SANBI. 2011. National Biodiversity Assessment. 16. http://censorbugbear-reports.blogspot.co.za/2010/03/benoni-nigel-springs-face-permanent.html. 17. WWF. 2013. An introduction to South Africa’s Water Source Areas: The 8% land area that provides 50% of our surface water. 18. EMM Bioregional Plan, 2014. 19. EMM Bioregional Plan, 2014. 20. EMM Bioregional Plan, 2014. 21. http://springsadvertiser.co.za/111156/keeping-an-eye-on-invader-plants/. 22. http://springsadvertiser.co.za/141682/metro-confirms-pollution-in-blesbokspruit/. 23. Collins, N.B. 2005. Wetlands: The basics and some more. Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental and Economic Affairs. 24. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 25. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 26. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 27. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 28. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 29. Graph sourced from the CSAG Climate Information Portal: http://cip.csag.uct.ac.za/webclient2/app/. 30. http://www.ramsar.org/sites-countries/the-ramsar-sites.

ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report I 2017 55 Notes

56 2017 I ekurhuleni METROPOLITAN Municipality: Wetland Report

Biodiversity for Life South African National Biodiversity Institute