Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process
Fauna and Flora Specialist Study
Prepared for: Project Number: Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd SWS6801
January 2021
Turnberry Office Park, Phone: +27 (0) 11 789 9495 Directors: J Leaver (Chairman)*, Digby Wells and Associates Digby Wells House. Fax: +27 (0) 11 789 9495 NA Mehlomakulu*, A Mpelwane, DJ Otto, (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd 48 Grosvenor Road, E-mail: [email protected] M Rafundisani Company Registration: 2010/008577/07 Bryanston,2191 Website: www.digbywells.com *Non-Executive
This document has been prepared by Digby Wells Environmental.
Report Type: Fauna and Flora Specialist Study
Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Project Name: Amendment Process
Project Code: SWS6801
Name Responsibility Signature Date
Field Specialist Lisa Hester and Report January 2021 Compiler
Danie Otto Report Reviewer January 2021 (Pri.Sci.Nat)
This report is provided solely for the purposes set out in it and may not, in whole or in part, be used for any other purpose without Digby Wells Environmental prior written consent.
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DETAILS AND DECLARATION OF THE SPECIALIST
Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd Contact person: Lisa Hester Contact person: Danie Otto Digby Wells House Tel: 011 789 9495 Turnberry Office Park Fax: 011 789 9498 48 Grosvenor Road E-mail: [email protected] Bryanston [email protected] 2191
Full name: Lisa Hester
Title/ Position: Ecologist
Qualification(s): BSc (Hons) Ecology
Experience (years): 4
Registration(s): SACNASP: 125725
I, _Lisa Hester, declare that: –
● I act as the independent specialist in this application;
● I will perform the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant;
● I declare that there are no circumstances that may compromise my objectivity in performing such work;
● I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application, including knowledge of the Act, Regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;
● I will comply with the Act, Regulations and all other applicable legislation;
● I have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity;
● I undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing - any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and - the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by myself for submission to the competent authority;
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● All the particulars furnished by me in this form are true and correct; and
● I realise that a false declaration is an offence in terms of regulation 48 and is punishable in terms of section 24F of the Act.
January 2021
Signature of the Specialist Date
Findings, recommendations and conclusions provided in this report are based on the best available scientific methods and the author’s professional knowledge and information at the time of compilation. Digby Wells employees involved in the compilation of this report, however, accepts no liability for any actions, claims, demands, losses, liabilities, costs, damages and expenses arising from or in connection with services rendered, and by the use of the information contained in this document. No form of this report may be amended or extended without the prior written consent of the author and/or a relevant reference to the report by the inclusion of an appropriately detailed citation. Any recommendations, statements or conclusions drawn from or based on this report must clearly cite or make reference to this report. Whenever such recommendations, statements or conclusions form part of a main report relating to the current investigation, this report must be included in its entirety.
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd (Sweet Sensation) has an approved Mining Right (DMRE Ref. No. FS30/5/1/2/2/10018 MR) and Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) (DMRE Ref. No. FS30/5/1/2/2/10018EM), in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002) (MPRDA) and National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA). The Mining Right and EMPr were approved on 11 October 2016 and allow Sweet Sensation to undertake sand mining on the Remaining Extent (RE) of the Farm De Pont No. 228, situated in the Free State Province. The Mining Right Area (MRA) amounts to approximately 101.2877 hectares (ha), although only 95 ha is being mined. Sweet Sensation commenced with sand mining activities in 2017. The sand mine has a Life of Mine (LoM) of 22 years however the Mining Right will expire on 30 March 2026. Digby Wells Environmental (Digby Wells) was contracted by Sweet Sensation to submit an application for an Amendment of the approved EMPr in order to include screening into the mining process, which was previously not approved, aimed at improving efficiency and to maximise the saleable product. The application for amendment was submitted on 28 May 2020 to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) in accordance with Regulation 29(a) of the NEMA, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations, 2014 (GN R 982 of 4 December 2014 as amended). Several objections were subsequently received from the various I&APs. After receiving these objections, the DMRE required a Regulation 31 Amendment Process to be followed. This project, therefore, serves to apply for the inclusion of the screening process into the EMPr in accordance with a Regulation 31 Amendment Process. The fauna and flora specialist study was undertaken in support of this process. The Sweet Sensation Project Area is located 350 m from the Vaal River, under the jurisdiction of the Ngwathe Local Municipality, which is located in the Fezile Dabi District Municipality, Free State Province. The mining right boundary is located on the boundary of the Free State, Gauteng and North West Province. Residential communities are located nearby and on the opposite side of the Vaal River. The nearest community is Vaal Eden, Vaal Oewer and Lindequesdrif. The site is located approximately 20 km north-east of the town of Parys and 23 km north-west from the town of Sasolburg. The Project Area is located within the Grassland Biome of South Africa. The Grassland Biome is found chiefly on the high central plateau of South Africa, and the inland areas of KwaZulu- Natal and the Eastern Cape. Based on the Mucina and Rutherford (2006) delineation of South Africa’s vegetation, the region in which the study area is located is defined by one vegetation unit, the Soweto Highveld Grassland. The Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type is found in Mpumalanga, Gauteng and to a small extent in the Free State and North-West Provinces.
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Two wet season infield flora assessments took place on the 4th of November 2020 and the 12th to 13th of January 2021. During the field survey, the area was surveyed for the various fauna assemblages and sensitive flora. A total of eight (8) mammal species were recorded during the infield assessment and the tracks of an African Clawless Otter (Aonyx capensis) (Near Threatened) was observed near the northern boundary of the MRA by a seasonal pan. Other mammals included Vervet Monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythus), Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), Water Mongoose (Aitlax paludinosus), and Ground Squirrel (Xerus inauris). Forty four (44) bird species were recorded in the Project Area during the November survey based on either direct observations or vocalisations. A number of these species are protected in the province and one species is listed as Near Threatened, namely the Chestnut-banded Plover (Charadrius pallidus) which was recorded near a seasonal pan in the northern boundary of the MRA. Other bird species included Brown-hooded Kingfisher (Halcyon albiventris), Eastern Clapper Lark (Mirafra fasciolata), Northern Black Korhaan (Afrotis afraoides) and African Fish Eagle (Hailaeetus vocifer). Two (2) species of herpetofauna species were recorded during the infield assessment. Tracks of a Nile Monitor (Varanus niloticus) and Common River Frog (Afrana angolensis) Tadpoles. Both listed as Least Concern. A total of twenty-five (25) invertebrate species were recorded and none of these are protected provincially, nationally or globally. Several Lepidoptera species were identified, namely, African Monarch Butterfly (Danaus chrysippus), Brown-veined White Butterfly (Belenois aurota), African Migrant Butterfly (Catopsilia florella), and Smoky Orange Tip Butterfly (Colotis euippe).
High faunal activity was observed within various portions of the mine despite the ongoing mining operations (for approximately 3.5 years). Sensitive areas of faunal activity and locations of SCC have been delineated in a Sensitivity Map. Impacts on the fauna and flora associated with the screening activities and associated infrastructure include the loss of vegetation, dust and noise pollution, biodiversity (loss of faunal and floral species of conservation concern) and ecosystem functioning (pan vegetation. If no mitigation is introduced, significance of the impacts are minor negatives. If mitigation measures are adhered to significance of the impacts will be negligible negatives (see Section 11 Impact Assessment). Section 12 and Section 15 describes a management plan for the rehabilitation and monitoring during the operational phase of the project. It is highly recommended to ensure that these management measures be followed to limit the impacts to the fauna and flora of the Project Area. It is recommended that in high windy conditions, a temporary halt in material handling and screening of sand should be implemented. Appropriate dust suppression measures must be used during high dust conditions e.g. dampening with water (please see air quality recommendations in the Digby Wells Air Quality Report 2020). Stockpiles should be situated away from sensitive habitats and nearby receptors and should take into account the
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predominant wind direction. Noisy activities must comply with the local noise standards and regulations (please see noise quality recommendations in the EARES Noise Study Report 2020).
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction ...... 1
2. Project Locality ...... 1
3. Description of the Activities to be Undertaken...... 5
3.1. Screening Process ...... 5 4. Relevant Legislation, Standards and Guidelines ...... 9
5. Report Content ...... 10
6. Assumptions, Limitations and Exclusions ...... 12
7. Expertise of the Specialist ...... 12
8. Methodology...... 13
8.1. Desktop Gap Analysis ...... 13 8.2. Field Investigations ...... 13 8.2.1. Mammals ...... 13 8.2.2. Birds (Avifauna) ...... 14 8.2.3. Reptiles and Frogs ...... 14 8.2.4. Invertebrates (Spiders, Scorpions, Beetles and Butterflies) ...... 14 8.2.5. Species of Conservational Concern Assessment ...... 15 9. Baseline Environment ...... 15
9.1. Climate ...... 15 9.2. Broad-scale vegetation patterns ...... 15 9.3. Conservation status of the unit ...... 18 9.3.1. Free State Biodiversity Sector Plan (2015) ...... 18 9.3.2. National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems for South Africa (2011) ... 22 9.3.3. National Protected Area Expansion Strategy for South Africa (2016) ...... 23 9.3.4. Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (Birdlife SA,2015) ...... 25 10. Findings and Discussion ...... 27
10.1. Flora ...... 27 10.1.1. Baseline Floral Description ...... 27
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10.2. Species of Conservation Concern ...... 28 10.2.1. Protected Flora ...... 28 10.2.2. Protected Fauna ...... 29 10.2.2.1. Mammals ...... 29 10.2.2.2. Avifauna...... 30 10.2.2.3. Reptiles...... 30 10.2.2.4. Amphibians ...... 31 10.2.2.5. Invertebrates ...... 31 10.3. Fauna ...... 31 10.3.1. Mammals ...... 32 10.3.2. Avifauna ...... 36 10.3.3. Herpetofauna ...... 39 10.3.4. Invertebrates ...... 40 10.4. Sensitivity Analysis ...... 42 11. Impact Assessment ...... 44
11.1. Operational Phase ...... 44 11.1.1. Impact Description ...... 45 11.1.1.1. Management Objectives ...... 45 11.1.1.2. Management Actions ...... 45 11.1.1.3. Impact Ratings ...... 46 11.2. Cumulative Impacts ...... 48 11.3. Unplanned and Low Risk Events ...... 49 12. Environmental Management Plan ...... 50
13. Monitoring Programme...... 54
14. Stakeholder Engagement Comments Received ...... 54
15. Recommendations ...... 63
16. Reasoned Opinion Whether Project Should Proceed or Not ...... 63
17. Conclusion ...... 63
18. References ...... 64
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19. Methodology...... 66
19.1. Impact Assessment ...... 66
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2-1: Regional Setting ...... 3 Figure 2-2: Locality Map ...... 4 Figure 3-1: Mobile 3-Screening Machine ...... 6 Figure 3-2: Approved Mine Layout ...... 7 Figure 3-3: Proposed Area to Be Screened ...... 8 Figure 9-1: Project Area showing the vegetation type based on the Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland (BGIS, 2017) ...... 17 Figure 9-2: Free State Biodiversity Sector Plan for the Project Area (2015) ...... 21 Figure 9-3: Proximity of the site to protected areas and expansion focus areas ...... 24 Figure 9-4: Proximity of the site to IBAs ...... 26 Figure 10-1: Left: Hypoxis hemeracallidae and Right: Boophone disticha ...... 29 Figure 10-3: Tracks of: Left: Water Mongoose, Middle: African Clawless Otter and Right: Vervet Monkey ...... 34 Figure 10-4: Left: Yellow Mongoose & Ground Squirrel. Right: Mole activity ...... 35 Figure 10-5: Open water source with high faunal activity near the northern boundary of MRA ...... 39 Figure 10-6: Left: Common River Frog tadpole. Middle and Right: Nile Monitor tracks...... 40 Figure 10-7:Left: African Monarch and Stick Grasshoper. Middle; Cream Stripped Owl Moth. Right: Acacia Stinkbug and Three-lined Velvet Ground Beetle ...... 42 Figure 10-7: Sensitivity Map of the Project Area ...... 43
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-1: Summary of the Sweet Sensation Project Location Details ...... 2 Table 2-2: Properties incorporated in the Mining Right and approved EMPr ...... 2 Table 4-1: Applicable Legislation, Regulations, Guidelines and By-Laws ...... 9 Table 5-1: Legal Requirements ...... 10 Table 9-1: Characteristic plant species of the identified Vegetation Types (Mucina & Rutherford, 2012) ...... 16 Table 9-2: Free State Biodiversity Plan Categories ...... 19 Table 9-3: Criteria used to identify threatened terrestrial ecosystems ...... 22 Table 10-1: Red Data mammal species potentially occurring on site ...... 29 Table 10-2: Red Data Avifauna potentially occurring on site ...... 30 Table 10-3: Red Data Reptile species potentially occurring on site ...... 31 Table 10-4: Mammal species recorded during the infield assessment ...... 32 Table 10-5: Avifauna Species Recorded ...... 36 Table 10-6: Invertebrate Species Recorded ...... 40 Table 11-1: Summary of Project Activities ...... 44 Table 11-2: Interactions and Impacts of Activity ...... 44 Table 11-3: Disturbance to fauna and flora due to noise and heavy machinery use ...... 46 Table 11-4: Disturbance to fauna and flora due to dust and emissions ...... 48 Table 11-5: Unplanned events, low risks and their management measures ...... 49 Table 12-1: Environmental Management Plan ...... 51 Table 13-1: Monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme ...... 54 Table 14-1: Stakeholder Engagement Comments ...... 56 Table 20-1: Impact Assessment Parameter Ratings ...... 67 Table 20-2: Probability/Consequence Matrix ...... 71 Table 20-3: Significance Rating Description ...... 72
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A: Methodology
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Appendix B: Plant Species List Appendix C: Expected Mammal Species List Appendix D: Expected Bird Species List Appendix E: Expected Amphibian Species List Appendix F: Expected Reptile Species List Appendix G: Expected Butterfly Species List
ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITION
DMRE Department of Mineral Resources and Energy
DWS Department of Water and Sanitation
EA Environmental Authorisation
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner
EMPr Environmental Management Programme Report
EBA Endemic Bird Area
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EN Endangered
EW Extinct in the Wild
EX Extinct
Ha Hectares
IBA Important Birding Area
IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature
km Kilometers
km2 Square kilometers
m Meters
mm Millimeters
MRA Mining Right Application
NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Acton Plan
NE Not Evaluated
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NEMA National Environmental Management Act,1998 (Act 107 of 1998)
NEMBA National Environmental Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2014)
NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas
No. Number
NPAES National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy
NT Near Threatened
PRECIS Pretoria Computerised Information System
QDS Quarter Degree Square
SABAP South African Bird Atlas Project
SACNASP South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions
SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute
SCC Species of Conservation Concern
VU Vulnerable
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
1. Introduction Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd (Sweet Sensation) has an approved Mining Right (DMRE Ref. No. FS30/5/1/2/2/10018 MR) and Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) (DMRE Ref. No. FS30/5/1/2/2/10018 EM), in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002) (MPRDA) and National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA). The Mining Right and EMPr was approved on 11 October 2016 and allows Sweet Sensation to undertake sand mining on the remaining extent of the Farm De Pont No. 228, situated in the Free State Province. The Mining Right Area (MRA) amounts to approximately 101.2877 hectares (ha), although only 95 ha is being mined. Sweet Sensation commenced with sand mining activities in 2017. The sand mine has a Life of Mine (LoM) of 22 years however the Mining Right will expire on 30 March 2026. Digby Wells Environmental (Digby Wells) was contracted by Sweet Sensation to submit an application for an Amendment of the approved EMPr in order to include screening into the mining process, which was previously not approved, aimed at improving efficiency and to maximise the saleable product. The application for amendment was submitted on 28 May 2020 to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) in accordance with Regulation 29(a) of the NEMA, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations, 2014 (GN R 982 of 4 December 2014 as amended). A number of objections were subsequently received from the various I&APs. After receiving these objections, the DMRE required a Regulation 31 Amendment Process to be followed. This project therefore serves to apply for the inclusion of the screening process into the EMPr in accordance with a Regulation 31 Amendment Process. The fauna specialist study was undertaken in support of this process.
2. Project Locality The Sweet Sensation Project Area is located 500 m from the Vaal River, under the jurisdiction of the Ngwathe Local Municipality, which is located in the Fezile Dabi District Municipality, Free State Province. Table 2-1 provides a summary of the location of the project. Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2 provides the regional and local setting of the project. The mining right boundary is located on the boundary of the Free State, Gauteng and North West Province. Residential communities are located nearby and on the opposite side of the Vaal River. The adjacent residencies are Vaal Eden, Vaal Oewer and Lindequesdrif. The site is located approximately 20 km north-east of the town of Parys and 23 km north-west from the town of Sasolburg.
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Table 2-1: Summary of the Sweet Sensation Project Location Details
Province Free State
District Municipality Fezile Dabi District Municipality
Local Municipality Ngwathe Local Municipality
Nearest Town Parys (20 km), Sasolburg (23 km)
GPS Co-ordinates 26°44'59.28"S (relative centre point of study area) 27°35'13.81"E
Table 2-2 provides the farm where sand mining is currently being undertaken and where the screening process will be undertaken. Table 2-2: Properties incorporated in the Mining Right and approved EMPr
21 Digit Surveyor General Farm Name Farm Portion (SG) Code
De Pont 228 RE/228 F02500000000022800000
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Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Figure 2-1: Regional Setting
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Figure 2-2: Locality Map
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
3. Description of the Activities to be Undertaken The mining method employed at the Sweet Sensation operations includes the following steps:
● Demarcation of the area to be mined;
● Stripping of vegetation and topsoil which is then stockpiled separately to be utilised during rehabilitation;
● Earthmoving equipment (i.e. loaders and excavators) are utilised to remove the sand and load it onto the awaiting client's trucks;
● No more than one strip is opened at a given time and the depth of mining is no deeper than 10 m; and
● Once the sand is extracted the disturbed areas are sloped, the topsoil replaced and then monitored to ensure that vegetation regrowth is successful.
The infrastructure layout plan is included in Figure 3-2. The map indicates the current mining area and existing mining infrastructure.
3.1. Screening Process During the excavation process of sand at Sweet Sensation, the sand layers and clay mixed, and this mixing reduced the usability of the product. To improve the efficiency of the mining process and to maximise the saleable product, a screening step has been proposed. The screening process will separate out the sand particle sizes and leave behind unwanted material (i.e. clay). The machine commonly utilised for the screening process is called a Mobile Terex 3-Screening Machine (Figure 3-1). Sand mixed with clay will be loaded into the Mobile Terex 3-Screen and separated into three stockpiles, depending on its average particle sizes as follows:
● 6 mm;
● 2.5 mm; and
● 1 mm.
Mined sand can be utilized for roads, plaster and building sand. Only one Terex 3-Screening Machine is proposed and will be moved from one area to the next within the MRA, as required. The machine will be placed on disturbed areas such as areas that have been mined but not yet rehabilitated or within the areas being mined. No additional areas will be impacted by the inclusion of the screening process. The proposed screening plan has also been included in Figure 3-3 to show the areas where screening will be undertaken over the life of mine.
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Figure 3-1: Mobile 3-Screening Machine
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Figure 3-2: Approved Mine Layout
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Figure 3-3: Proposed Area to Be Screened
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4. Relevant Legislation, Standards and Guidelines The Project is required to comply with all the obligations in terms of the provisions of the National legislation, regulations, guidelines and by-laws. The legislation and guidelines guiding the Fauna and Flora Assessment are detailed in Table 4-1 below. Table 4-1: Applicable Legislation, Regulations, Guidelines and By-Laws
Legislation, Regulation, Guideline or Applicability By-Law
NEMA is an umbrella Act covering broad principles of environmental management. NEMA can be regarded as the most important piece of general environmental legislation covering three main areas namely: land, planning and development; natural and cultural resources use and conservation; pollution control and waste management. According to NEMA sustainable development requires the consideration of all relevant factors including:
National Environmental Management ● That the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of Act (NEMA)( Act No. 107 of 1998). biological diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied.
Authority – Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).
The mitigation and management measures to be implemented as part of the project aim to manage and conserve biological diversity.
This act alludes to the fact that management of biodiversity must take place to ensure that the biodiversity of the project and surrounding areas are not negatively impacted upon, by any activity being undertaken, in order to ensure the fair and equitable National Environmental Management sharing among stakeholders of the benefits arising from Biodiversity Act (NEM: BA) (Act No. 10 indigenous biological resources. of 2004) Authority – DMRE. A specialist fauna and flora assessment has been undertaken for the proposed project and no Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) listed species were recorded
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Legislation, Regulation, Guideline or Applicability By-Law
Conservation in the Free State Province still operates under the Nature Conservation Ordinance (FSNCO). This ordinance provides for the conservation of fauna and flora and the hunting of animals causing damage and for matters incidental thereto. Species protected are listed under different schedules within the Ordinance Development in the form of the Free State Environmental Free State Nature Conservation Conservation Bill (FSECB) which will aim to replace the Ordinance (Ordinance 8 of 1969) FSNCO. In terms of the FSECB, policies for (FSNCO) environmental conservation must further the protection of, amongst others, ecological processes and the preservation of biodiversity in the natural environment. This development will be a shift from a one-sided species conservation approach towards a holistic biodiversity conservation approach. Authorities – Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) (national) and DMRE
Section 50(5) of NEM: PAA states that no development may be permitted in a nature reserve or world heritage National Environmental Management site without the prior written consent and approval of the Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 management authority. of 2003) (NEM: PAA) Authority – DMRE. The Project Area does not traverse any protected area.
5. Report Content This report has been compiled to comply with Appendix 6 of the EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended) as shown is Table 5-1. Table 5-1: Legal Requirements
Legal Requirement Section in Report
(1) A specialist report prepared in terms of these Regulations must contain-
details of- 7 (i) the specialist who prepared the report; and (a) 7 (ii) the expertise of that specialist to compile a specialist report including a curriculum vitae; 7
a declaration that the specialist is independent in a form as may be (b) Executive Summary specified by the competent authority;
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Legal Requirement Section in Report
an indication of the scope of, and the purpose for which, the report (c) 3 was prepared;
And indication of the quality and age of the base data used for the cA 9 specialist report;
A description of existing impacts on site, cumulative impacts of the cB 11 proposed development and levels of acceptable change;
The duration, date and season of the site investigation and the (d) 10 relevance of the season to the outcome of the assessment;
a description of the methodology adopted in preparing the report or (e) carrying out the specialised process inclusive of the equipment and 8 modelling used;
Details of an assessment of the specific identified sensitivity of the site related to the proposed activity or activities and its associated (f) 3 structures and infrastructure inclusive of a site plan identifying site alternatives;
(g) an identification of any areas to be avoided, including buffers; 10.4
a map superimposing the activity including the associated (h) structures and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of 3 the site including areas to be avoided, including buffers;
a description of any assumptions made and any uncertainties or (i) 6 gaps in knowledge;
a description of the findings and potential implications of such (j) 11 findings on the impact of the proposed activity or activities;
(k) any mitigation measures for inclusion in the EMPr; 12
any conditions/aspects for inclusion in the environmental (l) 12 authorisation;
any monitoring requirements for inclusion in the EMPr or (m) 13 environmental authorisation;
a reasoned opinion (Environmental Impact Statement) - 16
whether the proposed activity, activities or portions thereof should 16 be authorised; and (n) if the opinion is that the proposed activity, activities or portions thereof should be authorised, any avoidance, management and 16 mitigation measures that should be included in the EMPr, and where applicable, the closure plan;
a description of any consultation process that was undertaken (o) 14 during the course of preparing the specialist report;
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Legal Requirement Section in Report
a summary and copies of any comments received during any (p) consultation process and where applicable all responses thereto; 14 and
(q) any other information requested by the competent authority. 14
6. Assumptions, Limitations and Exclusions ● Whilst every effort is made to cover as much of the site as possible, representative sampling was completed as per the nature of this type of investigation. The major limitation associated with the sampling approach is the narrow temporal window of sampling. Ideally, a site should be visited several times during the different seasons to ensure a comprehensive fauna and flora species list. However, due to time and cost restraints, this is not always possible. It is therefore possible that some plant and animal species that are present on site were not recorded during the field investigations. In order to overcome this limitation, the list of species observed during the site visit is supplemented with species of conservation concern that are known to occur in the area. ● This report lists the findings of an on-site baseline evaluation within the area and is in support of the Regulation 31 amendment process. Potential impacts of the proposed screening operations were evaluated based on the layout provided at the time of writing the report, and where necessary, recommendations for the most appropriate mitigation measures have been proposed.
7. Expertise of the Specialist Lisa Hester (Pri.Sci.Cand) currently holds the position of Ecologist at Digby Wells Environmental in South Africa. She obtained her BSc Honour’s degree in Ecology and Conservation from the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa. Her dissertation topic involved an in-depth ecological survey of the Croc River Mountain Conservancy in Nelspruit. Since completion of her studies, Lisa has worked on numerous fauna and flora biomonitoring reports both locally and internationally (including Australia). Working on a multitude of surveys in various locations has allowed Lisa to engage upon a multi-faceted professional forum. Various scopes of work involving, ecological baseline assessments, ecological rehabilitation, wetland assessments, nest-box installations, scoping reports, bat surveys, species relocation and vegetation reports consists of her repertoire of work. Danie Otto is a Director and manages the Southern African Operations at Digby Wells. He holds an M.Sc in Environmental Management with B.Sc Hons (Limnology & Geomorphology, and GIS & Environmental Management) and B.Sc (Botany and Geography & Environmental Management). He is a biogeomorphologist that specialises in ecology of wetlands and rehabilitation. He has been a registered Professional Natural Scientist since 2002.
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Danie has more than 20 years of experience in the mining industry in environmental and specialist assessments, management plans, audits, rehabilitation, and research. He has experience in eight countries and his experience is in the environmental sector of coal, gold, platinum (PGMs), diamonds, asbestos, rock, clay & sand quarries, copper, phosphate, andalusite, base metals, heavy minerals (titanium), uranium, pyrophyllite, chrome, nickel etc. He has wetland and geomorphology working experience across Africa including specialist environmental input into various water resource related studies. These vary from studies of the wetlands of the Kruger National Park to swamp forests in central Africa to alpine systems in Lesotho.
8. Methodology This section presents the detailed methodology undertaken during the infield assessment and during the assessment of all impacts related to the project in terms of fauna and flora(Terrestrial Biodiversity)
8.1. Desktop Gap Analysis The majority of mammals, reptiles and amphibians are nocturnal by nature and birds are highly mobile therefore the presence of suitable habitat was used to determine the status of these species through various field guides and atlas. An elementary gap analysis was undertaken to ascertain whether or not the site falls within an area deemed as having relevant criteria such as irreplaceability of target biodiversity components, minimum effective size and viability requirements, migration requirements, integrity, essential ecological processes and/or ecosystem services.
8.2. Field Investigations A wet season infield fauna assessment took place on the 4th of November 2020 and 12-13 January 2021. Three camera traps were set out in locations where high faunal activity was observed and expected. During the field survey, the area was surveyed for the various fauna assemblages and floral species. The methodology of the fauna and flora assessment is described below.
8.2.1. Flora A walkthrough of the site was undertaken to assess the vegetation. The survey searched for protected and listed plant species and declared Alien Invasive Plants (AIPs), with the overall aim to produce a full species list of all plant species present.
8.2.2. Mammals A walkthrough of the site was done during the site survey whereby mammal species were identified by visual sightings as well as using spoor, droppings and roosting sights and available habitat. Camera traps were set up in various locations where high faunal activity was
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observed and expected. Mammals were identified using Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa (Stuart and Stuart; 2001) and the Mammals of the Southern African Subregion (Skinners and Chimimba; 2005).
8.2.3. Birds (Avifauna) Data regarding the distribution of bird species was obtained from the Quarter Degree Square (QDS) using the information available from the South African Bird Atlas Project 2. Concurrently with the mammal survey, the principal ornithological field survey technique was used to record bird species present. Opportunistic sightings were taken during the site survey. Because the primary purpose of this work was to establish the presence of species, no distance or time limit was set, and hence any species seen or heard anywhere within the general vicinity of the proposed project site was recorded. Visual identification was used to confirm calls of the less common species. Bird species were confirmed using the Roberts Guide (Chittenden et al., 2016). Assessment of the conservation status of species recorded focused on the various categories of Globally Threatened Species (IUCN 2019) and birds listed by NEMBA.
8.2.4. Reptiles and Frogs Comprehensive amphibian surveys can only be undertaken by nocturnal surveys throughout the wet season. This was beyond the current scope of the assessment and the area was surveyed diurnally for possible habitat for amphibian species. Direct / opportunistic observations were completed along trails or paths within the Project Area. Any herpetofauna species seen or heard along such paths or trails within the Project Area were identified and recorded. Another method used was to examine refuges using visual scanning of terrains to record smaller herpetofauna species which often conceal themselves under rocks and in fallen logs, rotten tree stumps, in leaf litter, rodent burrows, ponds, old termite mounds, etc. Du Preez, et al. (2009) was used to confirm identification where necessary. Assessment of the conservation status of species recorded focused on the various categories of Globally Threatened Species (IUCN 2019) and listed by NEMBA.
8.2.5. Invertebrates (Spiders, Scorpions, Beetles and Butterflies) A list of visually identified and observed invertebrate species was compiled during the field survey. However, due to their cryptic nature and habits, varied stages of life cycles, seasonal and temporal fluctuations within the environment, it is unlikely that all invertebrate species will have been recorded during the site assessment period. Nevertheless, the data gathered during the general invertebrate assessment along with the habitat analysis provided an accurate indication of which invertebrate species are likely to occur in the study area. A sweep net was used to capture and identify invertebrates. The focus of this assessment was on protected species as this would narrow the field considerably. Assessment of the conservation status of species recorded focused on the various categories of Globally Threatened Species (IUCN 2019) and inverts listed by the NEMBA.
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8.2.6. Species of Conservational Concern Assessment The term Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) in the context of this report refers to all RD (Red Data) and IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) listed fauna and flora species, as well as protected species of relevance to the project.: ● Critically Endangered (CR): A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild (IUCN, 2019). ● Endangered (EN): A taxon is Endangered when it is considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild (IUCN, 2019). ● Vulnerable (VU): A taxon is Vulnerable when the best available evidence indicates it to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild (IUCN, 2019). ● Near Threatened (NT): A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future (IUCN, 2010).
9. Baseline Environment This section provides a general description of the status quo of the receiving ecological environment in the Project Area. Information was obtained from varying resources and allows for the identification of ecological importance and an appreciation of sensitive environmental features of the proposed expansion. The following environmental characteristics of the Project Area are discussed in detail below.
9.1. Climate The Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) of the study area is five hundred and fifty millimetres (576mm) in the southwest to seven hundred and fifty millimetres (750mm) in the northeast, which mostly occurs during the summer months with the highest rainfall measured in January. The Mean Annual Temperature (MAT) recorded for the study area is fifteen point six degrees Celsius (15.6˚C), with the occurrence of frost in the low laying areas during the winter months (Climate-data.org, n.d.).
9.2. Broad-scale vegetation patterns The Project Area is located within the Grassland Biome of South Africa. The Grassland Biome is found chiefly on the high central plateau of South Africa, and the inland areas of KwaZulu- Natal and the Eastern Cape. Based on the Mucina and Rutherford (2006) delineation of South Africa’s vegetation, the region in which the study area is located is defined by one vegetation unit, the Soweto Highveld Grassland (Figure 9-1). The Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type is found in Mpumalanga, Gauteng and to a small extent in the Free State and North-West Provinces. This vegetation type typically comprises of an undulating landscape on the Highveld plateau, supporting short to medium-high, dense, tufted grassland dominated almost
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entirely by Themeda triandra and accompanied by a variety of other grasses such as Elionurus muticus, Eragrostis racemosa, Heteropogon contortus and Tristachya leucothrix. Scattered small wetlands, narrow stream alluvia, pans and occasional ridges or rocky outcrops interrupt the continuous grassland cover (Mucina & Rutherford, 2012). The Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type is classified as Endangered. The national target for conservation protection for this vegetation types is 24%, but only a few patches are statutorily conserved in Waldrift, Krugersdorp, Leeuwkuil, Suikerbosrand, Rolfe’s Pan Nature Reserves or privately conserved in Johanna Jacobs, Tweefontein, Gert Jacobs, Nikolaas and Avalon Nature Reserves and the Heidelberg Natural Heritage Site. By 2006, nearly half of this vegetation type was already transformed by cultivation, urban sprawl, mining and building of road infrastructure. The amount of area transformed since 2006 has most likely increased substantially. Some Soweto Grassland areas have been flooded by dams such as Grootdraai, Leeukuil, Trichardtsfontein, Vaal and Willem Brummer (Mucina & Rutherford, 2012). The characteristic plant species of this vegetation type is listed in Table 9-1 below.
Table 9-1: Characteristic plant species of the identified Vegetation Types (Mucina & Rutherford, 2012)
Soweto Highveld Grassland
Andropogon appendiculatus, Brachiaria serrata, Cymbopogon pospischilii, Cynodon dactylon, Elionurus muticus, Eragrostis capensis, E. chloromelas, E. curvula, E. plana, E. planiculmis, E. racemosa, Heteropogon contortus, Graminoid Hyparrhenia hirta, Setaria nigrirostris, S. sphacelata, Themeda triandra, Tristachya Species leucothrix, Andropogon schirensis, Aristida adscensionis, A. bipartita, A. congesta, A. junciformis subsp. galpinii, Cymbopogon caesius, Digitaria diagonalis, Diheteropogon amplectens, Eragrostis micrantha, E. superba, Harpochloa falx, Microchloa caffra, Paspalum dilatatum*.
Hermannia depressa, Acalypha angustata, Berkheya setifera, Dicoma anomala, Euryops gilfillanii, Geigeria aspera var. aspera, Graderia subintegra, Haplocarpha scaposa, Helichrysum miconiifolium, H. nudifolium var. nudifolium, H. rugulosum, Herb Species Hibiscus pusillus, Justicia anagalloides, Lippia scaberrima, Rhynchosia effusa, Schistostephium crataegifolium, Selago densiflora, Senecio coronatus, Hilliardiella oligocephala, Wahlenbergia undulata.
Geophytic Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus, H. montanus. Herb Species
Low Shrub Anthospermum hispidulum, A. rigidum subsp. pumilum, Berkheya annectens, Species Felicia muricata, Ziziphus zeyheriana.
Herbaceous Climber Rhynchosia totta. Species
Status Endangered
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Figure 9-1: Project Area showing the vegetation type based on the Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland (BGIS, 2017)
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9.3. Conservation status of the unit
9.3.1. Free State Biodiversity Sector Plan (2015) The Free State Biodiversity Plan (Collins, 2016) is a spatial tool that forms part of the national biodiversity planning tools and initiatives that are provided for in national legislation and policy. The Free State Biodiversity Plan was published in 2016, and like those of the other provinces, identifies and maps terrestrial categories with associated land-use and management guidelines. The categories are divided into Protected Area (PA), Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA), Ecological Support Area (ESA), Other Area and Degraded Area (Table 9-2). The main objective is the sustainable use of resources to unlock meaningful and lasting benefits for both the people of the Free State Province (e.g. enhancing human well-being) and the environment (e.g. enhancing the integrity of the environment). This means that any resource use must, on balance, ‘improve the state of the conditions or circumstances prevalent in the area to be affected by the resource use (Collins, 2016). The north-eastern section of the Project Area falls within an area classified as a Critical Biodiversity area 2 with the remaining area traversing what is classified as ESA1 and ESA2 (Figure 9-2).
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Table 9-2: Free State Biodiversity Plan Categories
Map Definition Desired Management Objectives Category
Those areas that are proclaimed as protected areas under Areas that are meeting biodiversity targets and therefore must be PA national or provincial legislation, including gazette, protected kept in a natural state, with a management plan focused on environments. maintaining or improving the state of biodiversity.
CBA Irreplaceable A site that is irreplaceable or near irreplaceable for meeting biodiversity targets. There are no or very few other options for meeting biodiversity targets for the features associated with the site. Such sites are therefore critical, and they need to be maintained to ensure that features targets are achieved and that Must be kept in a natural state, with no further loss of habitat. Only CBAs such features persist. low-impact, biodiversity-sensitive land-uses are appropriate. CBA Optimal A site that has been selected based on its complementarity for meeting biodiversity targets. CBA Optimal sites are therefore important, but their maintenance is not critical to ensure that features targets are achieved and that such features persist.
Area which plays important roles in supporting the ecological functioning of a PA or CBA, or in delivering ecosystem services. In most cases ESAs are currently in at least fair ecological Maintain in a functional, near-natural state, but some habitat loss is acceptable. A greater range of land-uses over wider areas is ESAs condition and should remain in at least fair functioning condition. appropriate, subject to an authorization process that ensures the ESA1: sites with minimal degradation. underlying biodiversity objectives are not compromised. ESA2: sites with degradation, i.e. they can be totally degraded, but not totally transformed.
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Map Definition Desired Management Objectives Category
An overall management objective should be to minimise habitat and Areas of natural habitat not required to meet biodiversity targets species loss and ensure ecosystem functionality through strategic Other for ecosystem types, species or ecological processes, i.e. natural landscape planning. These areas offer the greatest flexibility in areas not selected as CBA or ESA. terms of management objectives and permissible land-uses, but some authorisation may still be required for high-impact land-uses.
Such areas offer the most flexibility regarding potential land-uses, but these should be managed in a biodiversity-sensitive manner, Areas of degraded or transformed habitat that has not been aiming to maximize ecological functionality and authorization is still Degraded selected as an ESA, i.e. all remaining areas. required for high-impact land-uses. Moderately modified areas (old lands) should be stabilized and restored where possible, especially for soil carbon and water-related functionality.
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Figure 9-2: Free State Biodiversity Sector Plan for the Project Area (2015)
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9.3.2. National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems for South Africa (2011) The National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems for South Africa (NEM:BA: National list of ecosystems that are threatened and in need of protection, (GN 34809, GN 1002), 9 December 2011) was published in terms of NEM:BA and categorizes ecosystems into Critically Endangered (CE) which have undergone severe degradation; Endangered (EN) which have undergone lesser degradation; Vulnerable (VU), which are at a high risk of undergoing degradation and Protected which are of high conservation importance. The criteria used for identifying threatened terrestrial ecosystems was done through extensive stakeholder engagement and based on the best available science. The criteria for thresholds for critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable ecosystems are summarized in Table 9-3. According to the National List of threatened terrestrial ecosystems, the Project Area does not fall within any original or remaining extents of a threatened ecosystem Table 9-3: Criteria used to identify threatened terrestrial ecosystems
Critically Criterion Endangered Vulnerable Endangered
Remaining natural Remaining natural Remaining natural A1: Irreversible loss of habitat habitat habitat natural habitat < biodiversity target + < 60% of the original < biodiversity target 15% area
A2: Ecosystem degradation and loss > 60% of ecosystem > 40% of ecosystem > 20% of ecosystem of significantly degraded significantly degraded significantly degraded integrity
Ecosystem extent < Ecosystem extent < C: Limited extent and - 3000ha and imminent 6000ha and imminent imminent threat threat threat
> 80 threatened Red > 60 threatened Red > 40 threatened Red D1: Threatened plant List List List species associations plant species plant species plant species
F: Priority areas for meeting explicit Very high Very high Very high biodiversity biodiversity irreplaceability irreplaceability and targets as defined in a and high threat and medium threat low threat systematic biodiversity plan
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9.3.3. National Protected Area Expansion Strategy for South Africa (2016) The National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES) sets the national framework for consolidating and expanding the existing protected area network in the country (DEA 2016). Formally Protected Areas, either provincially or nationally, that occur within proximity to the project site could have consequences as far as impact on these areas is concerned. The National Protected Areas Expansion Strategies (NPAES) are areas designated for future incorporation into existing protected areas (both National and Informal protected areas). These areas are large, mostly intact areas required to meet biodiversity targets, and suitable for protection. They may not necessarily be proclaimed as protected areas in the future and are a broad scale planning tool allowing for better development and conservation planning. The updated NPAES 2016 includes new biodiversity data and newly declared protected areas as well as updated provincial conservation plans and provincially protected area expansion strategies as well as a review of the performance of protected area institutions in protected area expansion for the first implementation phase of the NPAES (2008-2014) NPAES have been developed to coordinate the expansion of protected areas in order to ensure that a representative sample of all ecosystems as well as key ecological processes are included in the protected area network. The Project Area does not traverse any protected area (Figure 9-3).
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Figure 9-3: Proximity of the site to protected areas and expansion focus areas
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9.3.4. Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (Birdlife SA,2015) The Important Bird Area (IBA) programme identifies and works to conserve a network of sites that are critical for the long-term survival of bird species that are globally threatened, have restricted range, and are restricted to specific biomes/vegetation types or sites that have a significant population. The proposed area also does not fall within or close to any Important Bird Areas (IBA), the nearest, Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve IBA, is too far from site to be considered in the sensitivity analysis (Figure 9-4). The Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is a fully protected provincial reserve that is recognised as an IBA on account of the presence of two globally threatened species (i.e. the African Grass Owl and Secretary bird), and several regionally threatened taxa.
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Figure 9-4: Proximity of the site to IBAs
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10. Findings and Discussion
10.1. Flora This section represents and describes the findings of the floral composition during the site survey in January 2021.
10.1.1. Baseline Floral Description The Project Area falls within the Soweto Highveld Grassland (gm08) (Figure 9-1), an Endangered grassland comprising of numerous graminoids and forbs (see Table 9-1). Historical imagery reveals that the area has been subjected to cultivation and thus has altered the grasslands original state. The Soweto Highveld Grassland is distinguished by the Mesic Highveld Grassland ecosystem group (SANBI, 2013). These ecosystems are located in areas with higher rainfall with warm wet summers and dry cold winters. They are made up of highly productive sourveld grasslands which tend to have a higher fibre content and withdraw nutrients from the leaves in the winter, hence the descriptive use of “sour”. The grasses are considered unpalatable with a low nutritional value. The vegetation in the Project Area comprised of medium-high, dense, tufted grasses with small pockets of dense woodlands. Majority of the eastern portion of the Project Area has already been mined with numerous uneven shaping/landscaping and large depressions with low basal cover (see Digby Wells Rehabilitation Audit Report 2020) in various sections. A few exotic trees were identified in close proximity to the office and associated mining infrastructure area (see Figure 3-2), including Eucalyptus sp., Acacia mearnsii, Quercus sp., Gleditsia triancanthes (listed Category 1b) and Opuntia ficus-indica (listed Category 1b). The western portion of the MRA remains intact and is a relatively undisturbed grassland. Woody species such as Vachellia karroo, Ziziphus mucronata, Searsia pyroides, S. magalismontana and Celtis africana formed dense pockets scattered through this portion. Various forbs and graminoids were observed such as Hilliardiella oligocephala, Lippisa scaberrima, Themeda triandra, Cymbopogon excavates, Eragrostis superba and Asparagus laricinus. Several Alien Invasive Plants (AIPs) were observed along the informal roads and areas of previous vegetation clearings, such as, Tagetes minuta (Khakibos), Zinnia peruviana (Zinnia), Plectranthus barbatus var. grandis (Coleus)(listed Category 1b)., and Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly Pear) (listed Category 1b). Two floral SCC were encountered in this portion and are discussed in Section 10.2 and the location is provided in Section 10.4 below. The previously rehabilitated area within the eastern portion is composed of Aristida congestsa, Aristida stipitata, Pogonarthria contortus, Digitaria tricholaenoides, Eragrostis lehmannia, Chaemocrista comosa, Zornia milneana, Tephrosia lupinifolia and Oxygonum dregeanum. The numerous Poaceae (grasses) provided ideal habitat for grassland birds such as the Eastern-clapper Lark and White-snapping Cisticola.
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The sand mining activities have constituted to undulation of the topography and surface thus establishing various waterbodies within the MRA. Numerous hydrophyllic plants were observed encompassing the waterbodies and throughout this portion such as Cyperus obtusiflorus, Bulbostylis hispidula, Cyperus congestus, Cyperus eragrostis and Cyperus esculentus. A full list of encountered floral species is listed in Appendix A.
10.2. Species of Conservation Concern The Project Area lies within two Quarter Degree Squares (QDS), namely 2627DB. According to the PRECIS, no Red Data floral species are expected to occur across these regions. Elaborated below in the succeeding headings is a discussion on what SCC species (fauna and flora) occur within the Project Area.
10.2.1. Protected Flora One provincially protected plant species was recorded during the site survey in January 2021 according to the Free State Nature Conservation Ordinance (Ordinance 8 of 1969) (FSNCO). The plant species Boophone disticha was recorded in the western portion of the MRA. This genus of species is listed as Schedule 6 Protected Plants (Section 30) under the FSNCO. This species is widespread but is assessed as Declining by the Red List of South African Plants due to the overharvesting and demand in the traditional medicine trade, preluding to its current decline in numbers. Another SCC, Hypoxis hemeracallidae, was observed near the Boophone disticha. Hypoxis hemeracallidae is not a Red Data listed species; however, urban sprawl expansion has amounted to increasing pressure for this species. Many of these plants, and related species are dug up for traditional medicinal remedies. This plant does not reseed easily, and the high demand for the species has exacerbated its’ decline. It is important to note that this does not necessarily imply that additional SCC do not occur within the Project Area. The two species observed are depicted in Figure 10-1
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Figure 10-1: Left: Hypoxis hemeracallidae and Right: Boophone disticha
10.2.2. Protected Fauna The field work team searched for various animal groups including small mammals, large mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates (specifically butterflies, scorpions and spiders). Potentially occurring faunal SCC are listed below in the succeeding headings.
10.2.2.1. Mammals The diversity of the vegetation is moderate with large portions of the Project Area already mined signalling a low diversity in mammals. There are no highly significant habitats for mammalian fauna within the MRA. Table 10-1 below lists mammalian SCC that could potentially occur on site, four of the species have been assigned a Red Data status. Table 10-1: Red Data mammal species potentially occurring on site
Family Species Common name IUCN Red List
Nesomyidae Mystromys African White-tailed VU albicaudatus Rat
Hyaenidae Parahyaena brunnea Brown Hyaena NT
Felidae Felis nigripes Black-footed Cat VU
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10.2.2.2. Avifauna Birds have been viewed as good ecological indicators, since their presence or absence tends to represent conditions pertaining to the proper functioning of an ecosystem. Bird communities and ecological condition are linked to land cover. As the land cover of an area changes, so do the types of birds in that area (The Bird Community Index, 2007). Land cover is directly linked to habitats within the Project Area. According to the South African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP2), 215 species of birds have been identified in the area; the majority of these birds are comprised of grassland and woodland species. All birds that could be present within QDS 2627DB are listed below. Of these species seven have been assigned a Red Data list, see Table 10-2 below. Table 10-2: Red Data Avifauna potentially occurring on site
Family Species Common name IUCN Red List
Sagittariidae Sagittarius Secretary Bird EN serpentarius
Coraciidae Coracias garrulus European Roller LC (declining)
Falconidae Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon LC (global) / EN (Europe)
Anatidae Nettapus auritus African Pygmy-Goose IUCN: LC; BLSA: VU
Anatidae Oxyura maccoa Maccoa Duck IUCN: NT; BLSA: NT
Otididae Eupodotis Blue Korhaan NT caerulescens
Accipitridae Aquila verreauxii Verraux’s Eagle IUCN: LC, BLSA:VU BLSA: Birdlife South Africa
10.2.2.3. Reptiles Reptiles are ectothermic (cold-blooded) meaning they are organisms that control body temperature through external means. As a result, reptiles are dependent on environmental heat sources. Due to this, many reptiles regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun or in warmer areas. Substrate is an important factor determining which habitats are suitable for which species of reptile. Reptiles expected to occur on site are listed in Appendix E, of the list, two species have been assigned a Red Data status, these species are list below in Table 10-3 below.
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Table 10-3: Red Data Reptile species potentially occurring on site
Family Species Name Common Name IUCN Red List
IUCN: LC Coppery Grass Cordylidae Chamaesaura aenea (Decreasing); SARCA: Lizard NT
IUCN: LC Striped Lamprophiidae Homoroselaps dorsalis (Decreasing); SARCA: Harlequin Snake NT SARCA: South African Reptile Conservation Assessment
10.2.2.4. Amphibians Amphibians are viewed to be good indicators of changes to the whole ecosystem because they are sensitive to changes in the aquatic and terrestrial environments (Waddle, 2006). Most species of amphibians are dependent on the aquatic environment for reproduction (Duellman and Trueb 1986). Additionally, amphibians are sensitive to water quality and ultra violet radiation because of their permeable skin (Gerlanc and Kaufman 2005). Activities such as feeding and dispersal are spent in terrestrial environments (Waddle, 2006). According to Carruthers (2001), a number of factors influence the distribution of amphibians, but because amphibians have porous skin they generally prosper in warm and damp habitats. All the species of frogs associated with this QDS are listed in Appendix E. Further niche differentiation is encountered by means of geographic location within the biome, this differentiation includes banks of pans, open water, inundated grasses, trees, rivers and open ground, all of which are present and / or within close proximity to the Project Area. The Giant Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus) (NT) may be expected to occur within the Project Area due to the favourable habitat sources.
10.2.2.5. Invertebrates Butterflies are a good indication of the habitats available in a specific area (Woodhall 2005). Although many species are eurytropes (able to use a wide range of habitats) and are widespread and common, South Africa has many stenotrope (specific habitat requirements with populations concentrated in a small area) species which may be very specialised (Woodhall, 2005). Butterflies are useful indicators as they are relatively easy to locate and catch, and to identify. It is for this reason that Lepidoptera will be used as the primary focus for the vertebrate survey. Expected butterflies that may occur in the Project Area are listed in Appendix G and one species of Red Data butterfly may occur within the Project Area, namely the Highveld Blue (Lepidochrysops praeterita) (EN).
10.3. Fauna This section represents the results from the field surveys conducted during November 2020 and January 2021.
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10.3.1. Mammals A total of eight (8) mammal species were recorded during the infield assessments and one species is a SCC. The tracks of the African Clawless Otter (NT) were observed in the northern portion, adjacent to the Vaal Eden (see Figure 10-2). There is an open water source within this portion and constitutes to moderate faunal activity within the Project Area. Evidence of species such as Water Mongoose and Vervet Monkey were observed at this open water source (see Figure 10-2). Given the Project Areas’ close proximity to the Vaal river, it is expected that smaller cryptic mammal species will traverse under the fencing between the adjacent properties. Various species from the Talpidae (Moles), Mustilids (Otters) and Herpestidae (Mongoose) families were observed during the site visits. The soft loamy and sandy soils provide ideal burrowing capacity for moles. Mole activity was observed within the western portion of the MRA along the small thickets of Asparagus laricinus (see Figure 10-3). Ground Squirrels and Yellow Mongoose have reconstructed numerous burrows in the rehabilitated area in the eastern portion of the MRA. A list of all species recorded during the infield assessment is presented below in Table 10-4. Table 10-4: Mammal species recorded during the infield assessment
Species Name Common Name FSNCO (1969) IUCN Red List
South African Ground Xerus inauris Not Listed LC Squirrel
Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare Not Listed LC
Cynictis Yellow Mongoose Not Listed LC penicillata
Canis Black-backed Jackal Not Listed LC mesomelas
Sylvicapra Bush Duiker/ Common Not Listed LC grimmia Duiker
Chlorocebus Vervet Monkey Not Listed LC (Decreasing) pygerythrus
Aonyx capensis African Clawless Otter Not Listed NT
Atilax Water Mongoose Not Listed LC paludinosus African Clawless Otters are predominantly aquatic and rely heavily on freshwater systems, as well as thick vegetative cover and abundant food supply in their environment (Conry, 2017). They have a diverse range of habitats ranging from dams, estuaries, mangroves and seasonal and episodic rivers. In river systems, they prefer habitats with reeds, boulders and overhanging vegetation, they also require grass and sand to help with maintenance of their coats. They are predominantly crepuscular, meaning they will forage for food during dawn and
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dusk. They generally feed on crustaceans, fish and amphibians. When they are not feeding during the day, they can be found seeking shelter in burrows (holts), which they dig out on riverbanks, or they rest in dense vegetation (Conry, 2017). As their habitat and diet requirements are relatively niched, this species succumbs to the pressure of ongoing coastal and limnetic expansion and development. This species is listed at Near Threatened according to the IUCN due to the impacts of ongoing habitat loss.
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Figure 10-2: Tracks of: Left: Water Mongoose, Middle: African Clawless Otter and Right: Vervet Monkey
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Figure 10-3: Left: Yellow Mongoose & Ground Squirrel. Right: Mole activity
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10.3.2. Avifauna The diversity of avifauna is one of the most important ecological indicators to evaluate the quality of habitats. Several bird species respond to small changes in habitat structure and composition; therefore they are good proxies to measure the diversity and integrity of ecosystems as they tend to be near the top of the food chain, have large ranges, and the ability to move elsewhere when their environment becomes unsuitable (Peh et al., 2006). Forty four (44) bird species were recorded in the Project Area during the infield assessments based on either direct observations and / or vocalisations. Majority of the species are provincially protected under FSNCO (1969) and one species is listed as Near Threatened, according to the IUCN, namely the Chestnut-banded Plover. This Plover has specific habitat requirements and the actual areas of occupancy is believed to be small, fewer than ten locations in the non-breeding season The habitat of these locations is declining and for these reasons, the Plover is evaluated as Near Threatened (International, 2021).This species was observed near the open water source near the northern boundary within the MRA (see Figure 10-4). This particular waterbody has been associated with high faunal activity in the recent survey of January 2021. The bird species observed during the site visit are listed in Table 10-5. Table 10-5: Avifauna Species Recorded
Common name Species name FSNCO (1969) IUCN Red List
African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer Protected (Schedule 1) LC
African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Protected (Schedule 1) LC
African Red-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Banded Martin Neophedina cincta Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Black Chested Snake Circaetus pectotalis Protected (Schedule 1) LC Eagle
Black-winged Kite Elanus axillaris Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris Protected (Schedule 1) LC
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Common name Species name FSNCO (1969) IUCN Red List
Cape Grassbird Sphenoeacus afer Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus Not Listed LC
Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Chestnut Banded Plover Charadrius pallidus Protected (Schedule 1) NT (BLSA)
Eastern Clapper Lark Mirafra fasciolata Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Fiscal Flycatcher Sigelus silens Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Golden Weaver Ploceus xanthops Not Listed LC
Greater Striped Swallow Cecropis cucullata Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Horus Swift Apus horus Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Spilopelia(Streptopelia) Laughing Dove Protected (Schedule 1) LC senegalensis
Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis Not Listed LC
Long-tailed Widowbird Euplectes progne Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Natal Spurfowl Pternistis natalensis Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afraoides Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Orange-throated Longclaw Macronyx capensis Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura Protected (Schedule 1) LC
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Common name Species name FSNCO (1969) IUCN Red List
Piping Cisticola (Neddicky) Cisticola fulvicapilla Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Red Chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea Not Listed LC
Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola Not Listed LC
Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Southern Fiscal Lanius collaris Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Southern Masked-Weaver Ploceus velatus Not Listed LC
Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix Protected (Schedule 1) LC
White-browed Sparrow- Plocepasser mahali Not Listed LC Weaver
White-rumped Swift Apus caffer Protected (Schedule 1) LC
White-throated Swallow Hirundo albigularis Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Wing-snapping Cisticola Cisticola ayresii Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Yellow Canary Serinus flaviventris Protected (Schedule 1) LC
Yellow-crowned Bishop Euplectes afer Protected (Schedule 1) LC
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Figure 10-4: Open water source with high faunal activity near the northern boundary of MRA
10.3.3. Herpetofauna Herpertofauna is defined as reptiles and amphibians inhabiting a given area. two species of herpetofauna were identified and are discussed below.
Reptiles are ectothermic (cold-blooded) meaning they are organisms that control body temperature through external means. As a result, reptiles are dependent on environmental heat sources. Due to this, many reptiles regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun, or in warmer areas. Substrate is an important factor determining which habitats are suitable for which species of reptile. The brevity of the survey meant that relatively few reptiles were observed compared to that of mammals and birds. However, Nile Monitor (Varanus nilotica) tracks were observed near the open water source in the northern portion of the MRA (see Figure 10-5). It is surmised that due to the close proximity of the Vaal River a number of younger individuals may seek refuge at quitter pans or dams in the immediate vicinity.
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Many shallow pools of water were observed within the western portion of the Project Area during the survey in January 2021. These shallow pools where in habited by numerous Common River Frog tadpoles (Ametia angolensis) (see Figure 10-5). The recent rains and scattered pools near the cattle kraals have provided ideal habitat for the Common River Frog.
Figure 10-5: Left: Common River Frog tadpole. Middle and Right: Nile Monitor tracks.
10.3.4. Invertebrates Invertebrates are the main components of faunal diversity in grasslands, playing substantial roles in ecosystem processes including nutrient cycling and pollination. Grassland invertebrate communities are heavily dependent on plant diversity and production within a given system (Barnett and Facey, 2016).
During the field assessment in January 2021, a total of 25 invertebrates were observed and are listed in Table 10-6 None of these are protected provincially, nationally or globally. Images of the recorded invertebrates are depicted in Figure 10-6 below.
Table 10-6: Invertebrate Species Recorded
IUCN Conservation Family Common name Species name Status
Acrididae Stick Grasshopper Acrida sp. LC
Bombyliidae Phantom Bee Fly Exoprosopa nemesis Not listed
Carabidae Two-spottted Ground Beetle Anthia homoplatum Not listed
Three-lined Velvet Ground Graphipterus Carabidae Not listed Beetle trilineatus
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Chrysomelida Milkweed Leaf Beetle Platycorynus dejeani Not listed e
Coenagrionid Common Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis LC ae
Prismatocerus Coreidae Acacia Stinkbug Not listed auriculatus
Erebidae Cream Striped Owl Moth Cyligramma latona Not listed
Erebidae Stolid Lines Grammodes stolida Not listed
Anoplolepsis Formicidae Pugnacious Ant Not listed custodiens
Libellulidae Wadering Glider Pantala flavescens LC
Hook-winged Net-winged Lycidae Lycus melanurus Not listed Beetle
Meloidae Felt Blister Beetle Mylabris burmeisteri Not listed
Mutillidae Velvet Ant Smicromyrme atropos Not listed
Slender Burnished Brass Thysanoplusia Noctuidae Not listed Moth orichalcea
Nymphalidae African Monarch Butterfly Danaus chrysippus LC
Pieridae Brown-veined White Butterfly Belenois aurota Not listed
Pieridae African Migrant Butterfly Catopsilia florella Not listed
Pieridae Smoky Orange Tip Butterfly Colotis euippe Not listed
Pieridae Borad-bordered Grass Yellow Eurema brigitta LC
Scarabaeidae Savanna Fruit Chafer Dischista rufa Not listed
Scarabaeidae Green Dung Beetle Garreta nitens LC
Tenebrionida Round Toktokkie Moluris pseudonitida Not listed e
Termitidae Black-mound Termites Amitermes hastatus Not listed
Conocephalus Tettigoniidae Long-tailed Meadow Katydid LC caudalis
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Figure 10-6:Left: African Monarch and Stick Grasshoper. Middle; Cream Stripped Owl Moth. Right: Acacia Stinkbug and Three-lined Velvet Ground Beetle
10.4. Sensitivity Analysis It is important to allow for detailed conservation planning to meet biodiversity targets in South Africa’s variety of ecosystems. Guidelines are essential to consult for development projects, and form part of the sensitivity analysis. Areas reserved for meeting conservation and biodiversity targets should not be developed, and therefore hold a high sensitivity value. In addition, sensitivity analysis in the field based on much finer scale data can be used to verify the larger scale assessments and put it into a more localised context. The outcome of this assessment depicts sensitivity ranging from low to high in the Project Area, presented in Figure 10-7 below. Low sensitivity was assigned to the portions where current and previous mining activities have been established. The land modifications have led to the decline in fauna inhabitability and an influx of Alien Invasive Plants, hence the low sensitivity. Moderate sensitivity was assigned to areas where there is evidence of historical alterations to the land, however, time has permitted indigenous floral proliferation that supports many faunal species. High sensitivity was assigned to the areas where the evidence of faunal and floral SCC were encountered and observed. The tracks of an African Clawless Otter (Aonyx capensis) (NT) were observed near a seasonal pan on the northern boundary of the MRA. Additionally, a Chestnut-banded Plover (Charadrius pallidus) (NT) was observed foraging in the shallows of the pan. This pan exhibited high faunal activity and serves as an important biodiversity feature or wildlife corridor for species passing through. Two floral SCC were identified in the western portion of the MRA, namely Boophone disticha (provincially protected) and Hypoxis hemeracallidae (declining). Several individuals of these species were identified in their demarcated location (see Figure 10-7).
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Figure 10-7: Sensitivity Map of the Project Area
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11. Impact Assessment This section rates the significance of the potential impacts pre-mitigation and post-mitigation. The impacts below are a result of both the environment in which the activity takes place, as well as the activity itself. The impacts associated with the proposed project include the NEMA EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended) and the impacts associated with the screening process of the sand within the Project Area. The methodology utilised to assess the significance of the potential impacts is described in Appendix A. The following activities will be assessed as discussed in Table 11-1. Table 11-1: Summary of Project Activities
Phase Activity to be considered
● Tipping of sand into the screening machine; ● Screening of sand by means of the Mobile Terex 3-Screening Machine or similar; Operational Phase ● Moving of the screening machine within the areas to be mined; ● Stockpiling of the screened sand on site; and ● Transporting of the screened sand offsite.
11.1. Operational Phase Activities during the Operational Phase that may have potential impacts… Table 11-2: Interactions and Impacts of Activity
Interaction Impact
Tipping of sand into the screening machine ● Dust pollution
Screening of sand by means of the Mobile Terex ● Noise generation and dust pollution 3-Screening Machine or similar
● Increased ambient noise levels at surrounding noise-sensitive receptors; Moving of the screening machine within the and areas to be mined ● Increased potential of faunal casualties through road kill and destruction and removal of vegetation (floral SCC).
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Interaction Impact
● Disturbances to the habitat, dust pollution, and AIP proliferation.
● Increased vehicle movement in the area, Stockpiling of the screened sand on site increasing soil compaction, erosion and runoff potential; and
● Unexpected changes in the topography and overall habitats.
● Increased dust; and
Transporting of the screened sand offsite ● Increased potential of faunal casualties through roadkill and destruction and removal and vegetation (floral SCC).
11.1.1. Impact Description The study site consists of degraded grassland, primarily due to anthropogenic impacts. The general study area (including outside the borders of the Project Area) includes extensive farmland and some mining, with associated houses and buildings. Despite the disturbed nature of the site, the floral diversity is relatively moderate and serves refuge and habitat for numerous faunal species such as the identified faunal SCC. During the operational phase, the screening of sand and movement of the vehicles during stockpiling and transporting of screened sand, could result in air pollution in the form of dust, especially during the drier months with increased windy conditions. During the operational (mining) phase the screening of sand and movement of vehicles during stockpiling and transporting of screened sand could result in an increase in noise levels, removal of vegetation and vehicular faunal casualties.
11.1.1.1. Management Objectives Management objectives during the operational phase will concentrate on the noise and dust management as well as preventing the loss of floral SCC and/or habitat and species that surround the operations. A site environmental management plan will manage habitat and species impacts due to noise, dust and machinery activity during operation. The noise and dust from screening and mining-related activities will present a continual management requirement for fauna in surrounding areas.
11.1.1.2. Management Actions ● Monitoring of alien invasive sprawl during the operation is recommended. ● Ensure no loss of faunal SCC by establishing signage or posters to create awareness of high faunal activity and adhering to speed limit within the Project Area. ● Flag floral SCC to prevent the removal.
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● To minimise dust and noise pollution, please refer to the management actions listed in the Digby Wells Air Quality Specialist Study 2020 and the EARES Noise Study 2020.
● Keep sight clearing to a minimal, and restrict vehicle movement outside of dedicated areas, specifically close to the waterbodies.
11.1.1.3. Impact Ratings The impacts associated with screening operation and the associated mitigation measures are detailed in below Table 11-3: Disturbance to fauna and flora due to noise and screening machinery use
CRITERIA DETAILS/DISCUSSION
Impacted Terrestrial Biodiversity environment
● Screening of sand, moving of sand to stockpiling areas and transporting of Activity sand off-site
● Disturbance to fauna due to noise from screening and moving of sand; and Description of impact ● Potential of increased faunal casualties through large machinery movement and habitat destruction.
● The footprint of the mine should be kept as small as possible with only necessary areas being cleared;
● Existing roads should be used with no new roads constructed, if new roads need to be constructed, these should be done outside of the demarcated sensitive floral and faunal habitats and as close as possible to the existing roads;
● Access should be restricted to already impacted areas such as haul roads;
● To minimise loss of faunal and floral SCC, posters and signage demarcating sensitive habitats must be incorporated during the mine life cycle. Anti- Mitigation poaching units should be activated and security patrols enlisted to prevent required snaring;
● Areas where vegetation is removed should be revegetated as soon as the screening process has been completed and the sand removed;
● Alien invasive plants should be continuously monitored and controlled throughout the life of the project and thereafter. It is recommended that AIP programme be established to control the spread; and
● Refer to the noise mitigation measures listed in the EARES Noise Study 2020 and avert the noise pollution from faunal SCC assemblages and sensitive areas identified in the Sensitivity Map.
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CRITERIA DETAILS/DISCUSSION
Parameters Spatial Duration Severity Probability Nature Significant rating
Pre- 3 5 4 5 negative (-) Minor (negative) (60) Mitigation
Post- 2 2 3 3 negative (-) Negligible(negative) (21) Mitigation
Table 11-4:Impacts on fauna and flora due to stockpiling of screened sand
CRITERIA DETAILS/DISCUSSION
Impacted Terrestrial Biodiversity environment
Activity ● Stockpiling of the screened sand
● Disturbances to the habitat, and increased dust pollution, and AIP proliferation; Description and of impact ● Increased vehicle movement in the area, increasing soil compaction, erosion and runoff potential.
● The footprint of the mine should be kept as small as possible with only necessary areas being cleared for stockpiling;
● Areas where vegetation is removed or where habitat is disturbed should be rehabilitated or revegetated as soon as stockpiles are removed;
Mitigation ● Dust suppression and mitigation measures listed in the Digby Wells Air Quality required Study should be referred to. The application of water on unvegetated areas is advised to control the dust pollution, particularly during windy periods.
● Alien invasive plants should be continuously monitored and controlled throughout the life of the project and thereafter. It is recommended that AIP programme be established to control the spread.
Parameters Spatial Duration Severity Probability Nature Significant rating
Pre- 2 3 3 5 negative (-) Minor (negative) (40) Mitigation
Post- 2 2 3 3 negative (-) Negligible(negative) (21) Mitigation
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Table 11-5: Disturbance to fauna and flora due to dust pollution
CRITERIA DETAILS/DISCUSSION
Impacted Terrestrial Biodiversity environment
Screening of sand, moving of sand to stockpiling areas and transporting of sand off- Activity site
Description of Dust pollution generated due to the screening of sand and movement vehicles during impact stockpiling and transporting of screened sand
● Dust suppression and mitigation measures listed in the Digby Wells Air Quality Study should be referred to. The application of water on unvegetated areas is advised to control the dust pollution, particularly during windy periods. ● Existing roads should be used, if new roads need to be constructed, these should be done outside of the identified sensitive areas and as close as possible to the existing roads (please refer to Sensitivity Map); ● Access should be restricted to already impacted areas such as existing haul roads;
● Areas where vegetation is removed should be revegetated as soon as the Mitigation screening process has been completed and the sand removed; required ● Alien invasive plants should be continuously monitored and controlled throughout the life of the project and thereafter. It is recommended that AIP programme be established to control the spread ● The screening machine and vehicles utilised to transport material must be maintained in good working order to prevent smoke emissions; ● Stockpiles should be situated away from nearby receptors and sensitive floral and faunal habitats and should take into account the predominant wind direction; and ● These mitigation measures must be read in conjunction with the Digby Wells Air Quality Report 2020.
Parameters Spatial Duration Severity Probability Nature Significant rating
Minor (negative) Pre-Mitigation 2 4 4 4 negative (-) (40)
Post- Negligible (negative) 1 3 3 3 negative (-) Mitigation (21)
11.2. Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are considered to be the total impact on the environment that would result from the incremental impacts of the proposed activities, these can be impacts on the environment which are caused by the combined results of past, current and future activities.
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The exact nature, duration, significance, and scale of cumulative impacts are difficult to quantify. The Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation Type has been assigned an Endangered conservation status. Thus, further degradation to this vegetation type places it under severe pressure due to the expansion of mines and urban development. The cumulative loss of the vegetation type as well as the loss of SCC within should be considered proactively. The further removal of habitat and vegetation types to permit mining activities will bring about a reduction in natural areas and increase edge effects. The impacts on the ecology of the area will be significant. Secondary cumulative impacts will include increased accessibility to the site and the resulting increase in development and resource dependence. Ideally, a strategic environmental plan for the area should be developed and adhered to. This should include the conservation of important areas as well as the provision of corridors for faunal movement.
11.3. Unplanned and Low Risk Events Low risks can be monitored to gauge if the baseline changes and mitigation is required. Unplanned events may happen on any project. Table 11-6 shows possible unplanned events and management/mitigation measures. Table 11-6: Unplanned events, low risks and their management measures
Unplanned Potential Mitigation/ Management/ Monitoring event impact
● Appropriate measures should be implemented in order to prevent potential soil pollution through fuel and oil leaks and spills and then compliance monitored by an appropriate person; ● Make sure operational vehicles are maintained and Hydrocarbon Soil serviced to prevent oil and fuel leaks; spillage contamination ● Emergency on-site maintenance should be done over appropriate drip trays and all oil or fuel must be disposed of according to waste regulations. Drip-trays must be placed under vehicles and equipment when not in use; and ● Implement suitable erosion control measures.
● Regular inspections and maintenance should be carried out Infrastructure in all sections until a closure certificate is obtained i.e. grass malfunction cutting, removal of debris, erosion repair; Habitat or ● All staff are to be informed about potential hazards and degradation spontaneous consequently prepared for malfunctioning; combustion ● Protocols are to be induced at every phase of the project life cycle; and
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Unplanned Potential Mitigation/ Management/ Monitoring event impact ● If such hazards were to incur, the appropriate authorities are to be notified and the incident recorded.
12. Environmental Management Plan The objective of an EMP is to present (a) mitigation measures to manage undue or reasonably avoidable adverse impacts associated with the development of a project and (b) to enhance potential positives. Table 12-1 presents a description of the mitigation and management options for the environmental impacts anticipated during the operational phase.
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Table 12-1: Environmental Management Plan
Aspects The time period for Activity/ies Potential Impacts Phase Mitigation Measure Mitigation Type Affected implementation
Air quality ● Please refer to mitigation measures listed in the Digby Wells Tipping of sand into the Through the duration of Dust pollution affecting the Operational Air Quality Study 2020 to minimise potential negative impacts Control screening machine the project fauna from dust pollution.
• Noise generation and dust pollution; • Removal of vegetation, ● Dust is inevitable due to the screening processes and basal cover, and thus mitigation measures listed in the Digby Wells Air Quality increasing the potential of Study 2020 will alleviate the negative impacts; loss of topsoil, organic ● Removal of vegetation is unavoidable in some areas, floral material, and increased SCC communities must be demarcated and flagged and all erosion potential; staff personal must be aware of their location. Sensitive areas • Increased erosion and are depicted in the Sensitivity Map; Screening of sand by runoff; means of the Mobile Terex • Changes to the landscape Fauna and flora ● Whilst the removal of vegetation and topsoil is underway, key Through the duration of Operational Control and minimise 3-Screening Machine or with subsequent removal of communities monitoring methods should be focussed on the prevention of the project similar faunal habitats and a AIP spread during the operational phase. Measures must be decrease in biodiversity and in place to prevent the spread of AIPs; loss of SCC (faunal and ● Erosion prevention is key thus runoff must be controlled, and floral); managed by use of proper stormwater management • Potential spillage of measures; and hydrocarbons such as oils, fuels (diesel), and grease, ● Refer to noise mitigation measures are listed in the EARES thus contamination of the Noise Study 2020 soils and surrounding grounds;.
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Aspects The time period for Activity/ies Potential Impacts Phase Mitigation Measure Mitigation Type Affected implementation
• Increased vehicle movement in the area, Increasing the risk of faunal ● Keep site clearing to an absolute minimum by adhering to the casualties due to road kill; Project layout only, and restrict vehicle movement outside of • Increased risk of AIP dedicated areas; proliferation without ● Monitoring must be carried out during the operational phase Moving of the screening adequate control measures; Fauna and flora to ensure no unnecessary impact to the remaining vegetation Through the duration of machine within the areas Operational Control and minimise • Increased dust pollution; communities and associated habitats, and if so that a remediation plan is the project to be mined • Potential spillage of put in place as soon as possible; and hydrocarbons such as oils, ● Re-fuelling of vehicles and machinery must take place on a fuels, and grease, thus sealed surface area away from wetlands to prevent the contamination of the soils ingress of hydrocarbons in the surrounding area. and surrounding grounds.
● Please refer to the Digby Wells Air Quality Study 2020 list mitigation measures in minimizing negative impacts from dust ● Increased dust pollution pollution; ● Increased erosion, runoff Stockpiling of the Fauna and flora ● During windy periods un-vegetated areas should be Through the duration of and compaction of soil and Operational Control and minimise screened sand on site communities dampened; and the project consequently sedimentation potential ● Stockpiles should be situated away from nearby receptors and sensitive fauna and flora habitats and should take into account the predominant wind direction.
• Increased dust pollution; ● Appropriate dust control measures listed in the Digby Wells • AIP proliferation; Air Quality Study 2020 should be adhered to; • Increased vehicle movement in the area, ● Ensure mining staff are aware of the speed limits that must Increasing the risk of faunal be adhered to; casualties due to road kill; Transporting of the ● Ensure awareness and locality of the SCC identified (see screened sand offsite; • Changes to the landscape Habitat removal Sensitivity Map) in the Project Area is circulated amongst the Through the duration of Movement of vehicles, and with subsequent removal of for faunal and Operational mining staff. It is recommended that before the screening Control the project heavy machinery; faunal habitats and a floral SCC machine is operative in an area, that particular area must be decrease in biodiversity and surveyed for the potential SCC and flagged; loss of SCC (faunal and floral); ● Vehicles utilised to transport material must be maintained in • Increased runoff potential good working order to prevent smoke emissions. and consequently ● Make use of existing roads to encourage minimal sedimentation and impacts/footprint to the Project Area; compaction of the soil;
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Aspects The time period for Activity/ies Potential Impacts Phase Mitigation Measure Mitigation Type Affected implementation • Potential spillage of ● Removal of vegetation is unavoidable in some areas of the hydrocarbons such as oils, Project Area, it is thus recommended that permits be applied fuels (diesel), and grease, for the removal of floral SCC in demarcated areas or thus contamination of the alternatively avoid areas of high sensitivity, see Sensitivity soils and surrounding Map; and grounds ● Excavated topsoil should be stockpiled separate from the subsoil to enhance the rehabilitation process. Long term stockpiles should be revegetated to minimise loss of soil quality and minimise AIPs.
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13. Monitoring Programme Table 13-1 presents the mechanisms for monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme and reporting thereon. Table 13-1: Monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme
Monitoring Element Comment Frequency Responsibility
During the operational phase the presence if AIPs should be detected and monitored. An active programme of weed management, to control the Annually during presence and spread of invasive the wet season Alien Invasive weeds, will need to be instituted so Environmental for the first five Management that encroaching weeds (from edge Officer years after effects and fragmentation) are rehabilitation. controlled by means appropriate to the species. This should run for the life of the mine and five years after rehabilitation.
Monitored every Red Data listed All protected and SCC must be marked 6 months from Field Specialist fauna and flora prior to any site clearing. rehabilitation
This will be closely linked to the flora monitoring to enable scientific conclusions and comparisons. To successfully monitor faunal and floral biodiversity with a Grassland biome. This needs to be supplemented with regular site visits to compile a Monitored every Fauna Monitoring reasonable comparison between the 6 months from Field Specialist identified faunal communities present rehabilitation and faunal communities found in the same areas during various stages of operation of the proposed project. It is recommended that this monitoring be carried out through the life of the mine and concurrently during rehabilitation
14. Stakeholder Engagement Comments Received The Stakeholder Engagement has been completed in part, as a process separate from the Fauna and Flora Impact Assessment. Interested and Affected Party (I&AP) comments submitted in relevance to the ecological resources during the previous Public Participation
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Process, were considered in the Impact Assessment Section and is stipulated in Table 14-1 below.
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Table 14-1: Stakeholder Engagement Comments
Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
To whom it may concern: I am concern about air pollution, noise pollution as Response is in regard to well as water pollution. Mining will also affect Dr J G the faunal aspect: Resident 04-Jun-20 Fauna and wildlife and birdlife in the area. Labuschagne Email All mitigation measures Flora We do not approve of any further mining. are structed to minimise Regards negative impacts. Dr J G Labuschagne
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
Good Day
Further to our email of the 31.05.2020 objecting to the above amendment and after reading in the Digby Wells report that the “Noise Specialist does not object to continuation of project based on findings” we would like to voice our objection to this decision.
We moved from Johannesburg to Vaaloewer just over a year ago to have a peaceful retirement, Reference to away from noise, pollution etc. One of the joys of the Noise retirement is being able to sleep late but the Peter & Vaaloewer Response is in regard to Assessment mining operations put paid to that! The noise of Barbara Homeowners & the faunal aspect: 02-Jun-20 Report and their machinery starts up at 06h00 (sometimes Greenwood- Permanent Email All mitigation measures
Fauna and before that) and it is the type of repetitive noise Selby Residents are structed to minimise Flora Report that disturbs one’s sleep and causes major negative impacts. irritation. Are the working hours of the mine not supposed to be between 08h00 and 16h00? Our residence is not directly across from the mining operation but slightly up river so I can only imagine how irritating it is for those residents when we, who are a little bit further away, are experiencing this level of disruption. We strongly object to the addition of new equipment which would cause more noise disruption during the course of the day and as previously stated further damage to the environment and wildlife.
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
Good day,
We as a family living on Vaaloewer across from the river where the mining operations are taking place and the proposed amendment relates to, earnestly object. We are subject every morning before sunrise to the noise from machinery already. This has a very negative impact on the peace and quiet we moved to of town. And every Response is regarding visitor who wishes to invest in our area for the the faunal aspect: natural beauty, nature as well as cleaner air are Elsje Venter Fauna Resident 02-Jun-20 Email All mitigation measures losing interest as soon as the mining operations are being discussed. are structed to minimise negative impacts. So too our wildlife. We have only recently started hearing the fish eagles again to our children's delight during lockdown.
We genuinely object and trust you will understand.
Regards
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
Good day,
As property owners in Vaaloewer, we would also Lynette Response is regarding like to object to any proposed mining operations in Klebba the fauna and flora the area, due to dust, noise levels and the Fauna and And aspect: irreparable damage to nature. Community 01-Jun-20 Email Flora Mr and Mrs All mitigation measures
Du Plessis are structed to minimise Regards negative impacts. Lynette Klebba And Mr and Mrs Du Plessis
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
To whom it may concern; Refer your ref. SWS6177 As an affected party I do NOT support your application and indicate it as a non-substantive amendment, as this equipment directly negatively affect all property owners on Vaaloewer and Lindequesdrif side. The current dust and noise being created already has a negative impact on our health as well as our property values. On your paperwork it might sound like you are dealing with a small area among farmland on the Freestate side but directly across the river on Gauteng and North West side there are more than Response is regarding 400 housing units and numerous farmers, and the faunal aspect: property owners that will have to listen to the PG LE ROUX Community 02-Jun-20 Email All mitigation measures noise that this equipment will be making and are structed to minimise having to deal with the dust pollution causing negative impacts. numerous problems. Currently the noise of the equipment and the dust created is already disturbing in our peaceful environment, not to mention the disturbance of our birdlife especially the fish eagles.
Trust that you will consult all concerned parties in this regard. Regards
PG LE ROUX LINDEQUESDRIF
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
Good Day,
As resident of Vaaloewer and thus an affected party I do not support your application, as the Response is regarding requested equipment will directly negatively affect the faunal aspect: all residents of Vaaloewer and areas around it. Willie de Beer Galaxy Bingo 29 May 20 Email All mitigation measures The equipment will have a negative impact on are structed to minimise many levels on the environment, wildlife, birdlife negative impacts. and individuals living in the area, even the current equipment is having an negative impact already.
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Organisation / Category Comment Raised Contributor Date Method Response Company
Good Day,
I am a resident of Lindequesdrift and reside on the river bank opposite the mining operations. Although I cannot see the mine from my property, I do hear the constant noise of lorries engines and the constant beeping of vehicles during the mining operations. As a strong environmental supporter, I am also concerned about the effect of the mining Response is regarding on the bird , animal , fish and plant life. Although it Donald the faunal aspect: has been mentioned in the application that “Once Hanneman Community 29 May 20 Email All mitigation measures the sand is extracted the disturbed areas are are structed to minimise sloped, the topsoil replaced and then monitored to negative impacts. ensure vegetation regrowth is successful”, I have not seen that when visiting Vaal Oewers, where the open stretches of sand are very visible and are starting to look like a desert scene.
I therefore do not support the application.
Rgds
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15. Recommendations The material handling, screening, stockpiling and transportation of sand will occur in an area of existing mining operations, and also close to the access road. The key to the success of the project is defined by the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures. Key impacts on fauna will stem from loss of air quality and noise disturbances as well as habitat and vegetation disturbance. The floral SCC must be located and flagged. As mentioned in the Section12, permits may be required for the removal of the flora SCC identified. Thus, the Sensitivity Map should be used as reference in order to identify and/or avoid the highly sensitive areas. Based on the Impact Assessment significance ratings, it is the opinion of the specialist that this Project is feasible and should be considered. Habitat loss and loss of SCC are the primal impacts on the fauna and flora within the Project Area. Faunal and floral habitats may succumb to fragmentation and destruction, potentially impacting floral and faunal SCC. Therefore, recommended mitigation measures must be considered. The implementation of strict mitigation measures is of considerable importance, specifically from a biodiversity (fauna and flora) perspective. It is recommended that in high windy conditions, appropriate dust suppression measures must be used (please see dust mitigation recommendations in the Digby Wells Air Quality Study 2020). Stockpiles should be situated away from sensitive habitats and nearby receptors and should take into account the predominant wind direction.
16. Reasoned Opinion Whether Project Should Proceed or Not Based on the baseline information, and impact assessment significance ratings, it is the opinion of the specialist that this Project is feasible and should be considered. However, it is highly recommended that concurrent rehabilitation, management, and mitigation measures are correctly implemented to minimise all potential impacts (identified in Section 11) on the fauna and flora of the site. Managing measures to minimise potential negative impacts as set out in Section 12 should form part of the conditions for the environmental authorisation. The Sensitivity Map should be used as a guide in the application of the recommended mitigation measures to ensure a positive outcome for the biodiversity.
17. Conclusion The Fauna and Flora Assessment Report has been compiled in terms of Appendix 6 of the NEMA EIA Regulations, 2014, (as amended) in terms of the Regulation 31 Amendment Process which is being followed in applying for Environmental Authorisation. The proposed development area falls within the Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type within the Grassland Biome. The area is primarily used for cattle grazing and sand mining.
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Floral SCC identified within the development footprint consisted of Boophone disticha and Hypoxix hemeracallidae. Faunal SCC consisted of African Clawless Otter and Chestnut- banded Plover, both were located within the Project Area. The potential impacts due to the mining activities on the fauna and flora is low to moderate if mismanaged. The impacts associated with the proposed development include: ● Removal of all vegetation within the development footprint, permits the loss of vegetation communities (including floral and faunal SCC), biodiversity and ecosystem services; ● Habitat fragmentation and edge effects; ● Dust and noise pollution; ● Contamination and erosion of the soils and surrounding grounds; and ● AIP proliferation.
Recommendations are made to ensure that the rehabilitation plan, mitigation measures and continuous monitoring measures are in place, and encourage a concurrent rehabilitation and monitoring plan. In conclusion, based on the results and findings of the impact assessment, Digby Wells does not object to the Project, taken into consideration the EMP, Monitoring Program and Recommendations are adhered to.
18. References Bureau, W. (1956). Climate of South Africa, Part 3, WB 21, Weather Bureau. . Pretoria.: Government Printer. Climate-data.org. (n.d.). Climate-data.org. Retrieved from Climate-data.org: https://en.climate-data.org/africa/south-africa/mpumalanga/hendrina-26815/#climate-graph Collins, N. (2016). Free State Province Biodiversity Plan: Technical Report v1.0. Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs. Internal Report. Conry, D. (2017, August 29). orcafoundation.com. Retrieved from Ocean Research Conservation Africa: http://orcafoundation.com/2017/08/cape-clawless-otter/ Driver, A., Maze , K., Lombard, A. T., Rougert , M., Turpie, J. K., Cowling, R. M., . . . Strauss, T. (2004). South African National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment summary report. . Pretoria: : South African National Biodiversity Institute. Duellman, W. E. (1986). Biology of Amphibians. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company. Gerlanc, N. M. (2005). Habitat origin and changes in water chemistry influence developemnt of Westren Chorus Frogs. Journal of Herpatology 39(2), 254-265.
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International, B. (2021, January 15). datazone.birdlife.org. Retrieved from Birdlife Inernational Species Factsheet: http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/chestnut-banded-plover- charadrius-pallidus Mucina, L., & Rutherford, M. C. (2012). The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Pretoria: South African National Biodiversity Institute. SANBI. (2013). Grasslands Ecosytems Guidleines: landscape interpretation for planners and managers. Pretoria: South African National Biodiversity Institute. Schulze, R. (1997). South African atlas of agrohydrology and climatology. Report TT82/96. Pretoria: Water Research Commission.
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Appendix A: Methodology
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19. Methodology This section presents the detailed methodology undertaken during the infield assessment and during the assessment of all impacts related to the project in terms of fauna and flora (Terrestrial Biodiversity)
19.1. Impact Assessment Details of the impact assessment methodology used to determine the significance of impacts to fauna and flora is provided below. The significance rating process follows the established impact/risk assessment formula:
Significance = Consequence x Probability x Nature
Where
Consequence = Intensity + Extent + Duration
And
Probability = Likelihood of an impact occurring
And
Nature = Positive (+1) or negative (-1) impact
Note: In the formula for calculating consequence, the type of impact is multiplied by +1 for positive impacts and -1 for negative impacts. The matrix calculates the rating out of 147, whereby Intensity, Extent, Duration and Probability are each rated out of seven as indicated in Table 19-1. The weight assigned to the various parameters is then multiplied by +1 for positive and -1 for negative impacts. Impacts are rated prior to mitigation and again after consideration of the mitigation measure proposed in this Impact Assessment Report. The significance of an impact is then determined and categorised into one of eight categories, as indicated in Table 19-1, which is extracted from Table 19-2. The description of the significance ratings is discussed in Table 19-3. It is important to note that the pre-mitigation rating takes into consideration the activity as proposed, i.e. there may already be certain types of mitigation measures included in the design (for example due to legal requirements). If the potential impact is still considered too high, additional mitigation measures are proposed.
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Table 19-1: Impact Assessment Parameter Ratings
Intensity/ Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Extent Duration/Reversibility Probability (Nature = -1) (Nature = +1)
Irreplaceable loss or damage to biological or Noticeable, on-going Permanent: The impact is physical resources or natural and / or social International Definite: There are sound irreversible, even with highly sensitive benefits which have The effect will occur scientific reasons to expect that 7 management, and will environments. improved the overall across international the impact will definitely occur. remain after the life of the Irreplaceable damage to conditions of the borders. >80% probability. project. highly sensitive baseline. cultural/social resources.
Irreplaceable loss or damage to biological or Beyond project life: The physical resources or Great improvement to impact will remain for some Almost certain / Highly moderate to highly National the overall conditions of time after the life of the probable: It is most likely that 6 sensitive environments. Will affect the entire a large percentage of project and is potentially the impact will occur. <80% Irreplaceable damage to country. the baseline. irreversible even with probability. cultural/social resources management. of moderate to highly sensitivity.
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Intensity/ Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Extent Duration/Reversibility Probability (Nature = -1) (Nature = +1)
Serious loss and/or damage to physical or biological resources or On-going and Project Life (>15 years): The highly sensitive widespread benefits to Province/ Region impact will cease after the environments, limiting Likely: The impact may occur. 5 local communities and Will affect the entire operational life span of the ecosystem function. <65% probability. natural features of the province or region. project and can be reversed Very serious widespread landscape. with sufficient management. social impacts. Irreparable damage to highly valued items.
Serious loss and/or damage to physical or biological resources or moderately sensitive Average to intense environments, limiting natural and / or social Municipal Area Long term: 6-15 years and Probable: Has occurred here or 4 ecosystem function. benefits to some Will affect the whole impact can be reversed with elsewhere and could therefore On-going serious social elements of the municipal area. management. occur. <50% probability. issues. Significant baseline. damage to structures / items of cultural significance.
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Intensity/ Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Extent Duration/Reversibility Probability (Nature = -1) (Nature = +1)
Moderate loss and/or damage to biological or physical resources of low Unlikely: Has not happened yet Average, on-going Local to moderately sensitive but could happen once in the positive benefits, not Local extending only Medium term: 1-5 years and environments and, lifetime of the project, therefore 3 widespread but felt by as far as the impact can be reversed with limiting ecosystem there is a possibility that the some elements of the development site minimal management. function. impact will occur. <25% baseline. area. On-going social issues. probability. Damage to items of cultural significance.
Minor loss and/or effects to biological or physical Rare / improbable: resources or low Conceivable, but only in sensitive environments, extreme circumstances. The not affecting ecosystem Low positive impacts Limited possibility of the impact functioning. experience by a small Limited to the site and Short term: Less than 1 year 2 materialising is very low as a Minor medium-term percentage of the its immediate and is reversible. result of design, historic social impacts on local baseline. surroundings. experience or implementation of population. Mostly adequate mitigation measures. repairable. Cultural <10% probability. functions and processes not affected.
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Intensity/ Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Extent Duration/Reversibility Probability (Nature = -1) (Nature = +1)
Minimal to no loss and/or effect to biological or physical resources, not Some low-level natural Very limited/Isolated Immediate: Less than 1 affecting ecosystem and / or social benefits Highly unlikely / None: Limited to specific month and is completely 1 functioning. felt by a very small Expected never to happen. isolated parts of the reversible without Minimal social impacts, percentage of the <1% probability. site. management. low-level repairable baseline. damage to commonplace structures.
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Table 19-2: Probability/Consequence Matrix
Significance 7 -147 -140 -133 -126 -119 -112 -105 -98 -91 -84 -77 -70 -63 -56 -49 -42 -35 -28 -21 21 28 35 42 49 56 63 70 77 84 91 98 105 112 119 126 133 140 147
6 -126 -120 -114 -108 -102 -96 -90 -84 -78 -72 -66 -60 -54 -48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78 84 90 96 102 108 114 120 126
5 -105 -100 -95 -90 -85 -80 -75 -70 -65 -60 -55 -50 -45 -40 -35 -30 -25 -20 -15 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105
4 -84 -80 -76 -72 -68 -64 -60 -56 -52 -48 -44 -40 -36 -32 -28 -24 -20 -16 -12 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84
Probability 3 -63 -60 -57 -54 -51 -48 -45 -42 -39 -36 -33 -30 -27 -24 -21 -18 -15 -12 -9 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 51 54 57 60 63
2 -42 -40 -38 -36 -34 -32 -30 -28 -26 -24 -22 -20 -18 -16 -14 -12 -10 -8 -6 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42
1 -21 -20 -19 -18 -17 -16 -15 -14 -13 -12 -11 -10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
-21 -20 -19 -18 -17 -16 -15 -14 -13 -12 -11 -10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Consequence
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Table 19-3: Significance Rating Description
Score Description Rating
A very beneficial impact that may be sufficient by itself 109 to 147 to justify implementation of the project. The impact may Major (positive) (+) result in permanent positive change
A beneficial impact which may help to justify the implementation of the project. These impacts would be 73 to 108 considered by society as constituting a major and Moderate (positive) (+) usually a long-term positive change to the (natural and / or social) environment
A positive impact. These impacts will usually result in 36 to 72 positive medium to long-term effect on the natural and / Minor (positive) (+) or social environment
A small positive impact. The impact will result in 3 to 35 medium to short term effects on the natural and / or Negligible (positive) (+) social environment
An acceptable negative impact for which mitigation is desirable. The impact by itself is insufficient even in combination with other low impacts to prevent the -3 to -35 Negligible (negative) (-) development being approved. These impacts will result in negative medium to short term effects on the natural and / or social environment
A minor negative impact requires mitigation. The impact is insufficient by itself to prevent the implementation of the project but which in conjunction with other impacts -36 to -72 Minor (negative) (-) may prevent its implementation. These impacts will usually result in negative medium to long-term effect on the natural and / or social environment
A moderate negative impact may prevent the implementation of the project. These impacts would be -73 to -108 considered as constituting a significant and usually a Moderate (negative) (-) long-term change to the (natural and / or social) environment and result in major changes.
A major negative impact may be sufficient by itself to prevent implementation of the project. The impact may result in permanent change. Very often these impacts -109 to -147 Major (negative) (-) are immitigable and usually result in very severe effects. The impacts are likely to be irreversible and/or irreplaceable.
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Appendix B: Plant Species List
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Family Species Conservation Status
Acanthaceae Dyschoriste setigera (prev Chaetacanthus setiger) LC
Aizoaceae Delosperma herbeum LC
Amaryllidaceae Boophone disticha SCC
Asparagaceae Asparagus laricinus LC
Asteraceae Tagetes minuta LC
Asteraceae Helichrysum nudifolium LC
Asteraceae Seriphium plumosum LC
Asteraceae Helichrysum miconiifolium LC
Asteraceae Helichrysum rugulosum LC
Asteraceae Senecio coronatus LC
Asteraceae Hilliardiella oligocephala LC
Asteraceae Zinnia peruviana* Weed
Asteraceae Ursinia nana LC
Brassicaceae Cleome maculata LC
Brassicaceae Cleome rubella LC
Cactaceae Opuntia ficus-indica* Category 1b
Campanulaceae Wahlenbergia caledonica LC
Caryophyllaceae Pollichia campestris LC
Commelinaceae Commelina africana var krebsiana LC
Commelinaceae Commelina benghalensis* Weed
Convolvulaceae Ipomoea ommanneyi LC
Cyperaceae Cyperus obtusiflorus LC
Cyperaceae Bulbostylis hispidula LC
Cyperaceae Cyperus(Mariscus) congestus LC
Cyperaceae Cyperus eragrostis LC
Cyperaceae Cyperus esculentus LC
Fabacaeae Sphenostylis angustifolia LC
Fabaceae Zornia milneana LC
Fabaceae Elephantorrhiza elephantina LC
Fabaceae Vachellia karroo LC
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Family Species Conservation Status
Fabaceae Chamaecrista comosa LC
Fabaceae Gleditsia triacanthos* Category 1b
Fabaceae Rhynchosia sp. LC
Fabaceae Tephrosia lupinifolia LC
Geraniaceae Monsonia angustifolia LC
Hyacinthaceae Ledebouria ovatifolia LC
Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis acuminata LC
Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis hemerocallidea SCC
Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis rigidula LC
Malvaceae Hermannia transvaalensis LC
Molluginaceae Limeum viscosum LC
Papaveraceae Argemone ochroleuca* Weed
Poaceae Digitaria tricholaenoides LC
Poaceae Aristida congesta LC
Poaceae Aristida stipitata LC
Poaceae Setaria sphacelata LC
Poaceae Trichoneura grandiglumis LC
Poaceae Cynodon dactylon LC
Poaceae Ischaemum fasciculatum LC
Poaceae Eragrostis racemosa LC
Poaceae Andropogon schirensis LC
Poaceae Cymbopogon excavatus LC
Poaceae Urochloa mosambicensis LC
Poaceae Eragrostis curvula LC
Poaceae Eragrostis lehmanniana LC
Poaceae Eragrostis rigidior LC
Poaceae Eragrostis trichophora LC
Polygalaceae Polygala hottentotta LC
Polygonaceae Oxygonum dregeanum LC
Pteridaceae Pellaea calomelanos LC
Rhamnaceae Ziziphus zeyheriana LC
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Family Species Conservation Status
Rhamnaceae Ziziphus mucronata LC
Scrophulariaceae Selago densiflora LC
Scrophulariaceae Nemesia fruticans LC
Scrophulariaceae Selago densiflorus LC
Verbenaceae Lippia scaberrima LC
Verbenaceae Verbena tenuisecta* Weed
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Appendix C: Expected Mammal Species List
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Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
Bovidae Damaliscus pygargus Bontebok
Bovidae Kobus ellipsiprymnus Waterbuck LC
Bovidae Syncerus caffer African Buffalo LC
Bovidae Taurotragus oryx Common Eland LC
Bovidae Tragelaphus angasii Nyala LC
Black-backed Canidae Canis mesomelas LC Jackal
Amblysomus Hottentot Golden Chrysochloridae LC hottentotus Mole
Equidae Equus quagga Plains Zebra LC
Herpestidae Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose LC
Leporidae Lepus sp. Hares LC
Eastern Rock Macroscelididae Elephantulus myurus LC Elephant Shrew
Little Free-tailed Molossidae Chaerephon pumilus LC Bat
Egyptian Free- Molossidae Tadarida aegyptiaca LC tailed Bat
Muridae Rattus rattus Roof Rat LC
Xeric Four-striped Muridae Rhabdomys pumilio LC Grass Rat
Mystromys African White-tailed Nesomyidae Vulnerable (2016) albicaudatus Rat
South African Sciuridae Xerus inauris LC Ground Squirrel
Lesser Gray-brown Soricidae Crocidura silacea LC Musk Shrew
Viverridae Genetta genetta Common Genet LC
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Appendix D: Expected Bird Species List
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Apalis Bar-throated Apalis thoracica LC
Barbet Acacia Pied Tricholaema leucomelas LC
Barbet Black-collared Lybius torquatus LC
Barbet Crested Trachyphonus vaillantii LC
Batis Chinspot Batis molitor LC
Bee-eater European Merops apiaster LC
Bee-eater Little Merops pusillus LC
Bee-eater White-fronted Merops bullockoides LC
Bishop Southern Red Euplectes orix LC
Bishop Yellow-crowned Euplectes afer LC
Bokmakierie Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus LC
Boubou Southern Laniarius ferrugineus LC
Brubru Brubru Nilaus afer LC
African Red- Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans LC eyed
Bulbul Dark-capped Pycnonotus tricolor LC
Bunting Cape Emberiza capensis LC
Cinnamon- Bunting Emberiza tahapisi LC breasted
Golden- Bunting Emberiza flaviventris LC breasted
Buzzard Jackal Buteo rufofuscus LC
Buzzard Steppe Buteo vulpinus LC
Canary Black-throated Crithagra atrogularis LC
Canary Yellow Crithagra flaviventris LC
Canary Yellow-fronted Crithagra mozambicus LC
Chat Anteating Myrmecocichla formicivora LC
Chat Familiar Cercomela familiaris LC
Cisticola Cloud Cisticola textrix LC
Cisticola Desert Cisticola aridulus LC
Cisticola Levaillant's Cisticola tinniens LC
Cisticola Pale-crowned Cisticola cinnamomeus LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Cisticola Rattling Cisticola chiniana LC
Cisticola Wailing Cisticola lais LC
Cisticola Zitting Cisticola juncidis LC
Cliff-swallow South African Hirundo spilodera LC
Coot Red-knobbed Fulica cristata LC
Cormorant Reed Phalacrocorax africanus LC
Cormorant White-breasted Phalacrocorax carbo LC
Coucal Burchell's Centropus burchellii LC
Crake Black Amaurornis flavirostris LC
Crombec Long-billed Sylvietta rufescens LC
Crow Pied Corvus albus LC
Cuckoo Diderick Chrysococcyx caprius LC
Cuckoo Red-chested Cuculus solitarius LC
Darter African Anhinga rufa LC
Dove Laughing Streptopelia senegalensis LC
Dove Namaqua Oena capensis LC
Dove Red-eyed Streptopelia semitorquata LC
Dove Rock Columba livia LC
Drongo Fork-tailed Dicrurus adsimilis LC
Duck African Black Anas sparsa LC
Duck Domestic Anas platyrhynchos LC
Duck Mallard Anas platyrhynchos LC
Duck White-faced Dendrocygna viduata LC
Duck Yellow-billed Anas undulata LC
Eagle Verreaux's Aquila verreauxii IUCN:LC, BLSA:VU
Eagle-owl Spotted Bubo africanus LC
Egret Cattle Bubulcus ibis LC
Egret Little Egretta garzetta LC
Falcon Amur Falco amurensis LC
Falcon Lanner Falco biarmicus EN
Finch Red-headed Amadina erythrocephala LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Finch Scaly-feathered Sporopipes squamifrons LC
Firefinch African Lagonosticta rubricata LC
Firefinch Jameson's Lagonosticta rhodopareia LC
Firefinch Red-billed Lagonosticta senegala LC
Common Fiscal Lanius collaris LC (Southern)
Fish-eagle African Haliaeetus vocifer LC
Flycatcher Fairy Stenostira scita LC
Flycatcher Fiscal Sigelus silens LC
Flycatcher Spotted Muscicapa striata LC
Francolin Coqui Peliperdix coqui LC
Francolin Orange River Scleroptila levaillantoides LC
Go-away-bird Grey Corythaixoides concolor LC
Goose Domestic Anser anser LC
Goose Egyptian Alopochen aegyptiacus LC
Goose Spur-winged Plectropterus gambensis LC
Goshawk Gabar Melierax gabar LC
Grebe Great Crested Podiceps cristatus LC
Grebe Little Tachybaptus ruficollis LC
Greenshank Common Tringa nebularia LC
Guineafowl Helmeted Numida meleagris LC
Gull Grey-headed Larus cirrocephalus LC
Hamerkop Hamerkop Scopus umbretta LC
Hawk-eagle African Aquila spilogaster LC
Heron Black Egretta ardesiaca LC
Heron Black-headed Ardea melanocephala LC
Heron Goliath Ardea goliath LC
Heron Green-backed Butorides striata LC
Heron Grey Ardea cinerea LC
Heron Purple Ardea purpurea LC
Heron Squacco Ardeola ralloides LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Honey-buzzard European Pernis apivorus LC
Honeybird Brown-backed Prodotiscus regulus LC
Honeyguide Greater Indicator indicator LC
Honeyguide Lesser Indicator minor LC
Hoopoe African Upupa africana LC
Hornbill African Grey Tockus nasutus LC
House-martin Common Delichon urbicum LC
Ibis African Sacred Threskiornis aethiopicus LC
Ibis Glossy Plegadis falcinellus LC
Ibis Hadeda Bostrychia hagedash LC
Indigobird Purple Vidua purpurascens LC
Indigobird Village Vidua chalybeata LC
Kestrel Rock Falco rupicolus LC
Kingfisher Brown-hooded Halcyon albiventris LC
Kingfisher Giant Megaceryle maximus LC
Kingfisher Malachite Alcedo cristata LC
Kingfisher Pied Ceryle rudis LC
Black- Kite Elanus caeruleus LC shouldered
Korhaan Blue Eupodotis caerulescens NT
Korhaan Northern Black Afrotis afraoides LC
Lapwing African Wattled Vanellus senegallus LC
Lapwing Blacksmith Vanellus armatus LC
Lapwing Crowned Vanellus coronatus LC
Lark Red-capped Calandrella cinerea LC
Lark Rufous-naped Mirafra africana LC
Longclaw Cape Macronyx capensis LC
Martin Banded Riparia cincta LC
Martin Brown-throated Riparia paludicola LC
Martin Rock Hirundo fuligula LC
Masked-weaver Southern Ploceus velatus LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Moorhen Common Gallinula chloropus LC
Mousebird Red-faced Urocolius indicus LC
Mousebird Speckled Colius striatus LC
Mousebird White-backed Colius colius LC
Myna Common Acridotheres tristis LC
Neddicky Neddicky Cisticola fulvicapilla LC
Night-Heron Black-crowned Nycticorax nycticorax LC
Osprey Osprey Pandion haliaetus LC
Ostrich Common Struthio camelus LC
Owl Barn Tyto alba LC
Owl Marsh Asio capensis LC
Palm-swift African Cypsiurus parvus LC
Paradise- African Terpsiphone viridis LC flycatcher
Paradise- Long-tailed Vidua paradisaea LC whydah
Pigeon Speckled Columba guinea LC
Pipit African Anthus cinnamomeus LC
Pipit Buffy Anthus vaalensis LC
Pipit Plain-backed Anthus leucophrys LC
Plover Three-banded Charadrius tricollaris LC
Prinia Black-chested Prinia flavicans LC
Prinia Tawny-flanked Prinia subflava LC
Pytilia Green-winged Pytilia melba LC
Quailfinch African Ortygospiza atricollis LC
Quelea Red-billed Quelea quelea LC
Robin-chat Cape Cossypha caffra LC
Sandpiper Common Actitis hypoleucos LC
Sandpiper Wood Tringa glareola LC
Scimitarbill Common Rhinopomastus cyanomelas LC
Scrub-robin Kalahari Cercotrichas paena LC
Seedeater Streaky-headed Crithagra gularis LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Shelduck South African Tadorna cana LC
Crimson- Shrike Laniarius atrococcineus LC breasted
Shrike Red-backed Lanius collurio LC
Snake-eagle Brown Circaetus cinereus LC
Snipe African Gallinago nigripennis LC
Sparrow Cape Passer melanurus LC
Sparrow House Passer domesticus LC
Southern Grey- Sparrow Passer diffusus LC headed
Sparrow-weaver White-browed Plocepasser mahali LC
Sparrowhawk Black Accipiter melanoleucus LC
Sparrowhawk Little Accipiter minullus LC
Spoonbill African Platalea alba LC
Spurfowl Natal Pternistis natalensis LC
Spurfowl Swainson's Pternistis swainsonii LC
Starling Cape Glossy Lamprotornis nitens LC
Starling Common Sturnus vulgaris LC
Starling Pied Spreo bicolor LC
Starling Wattled Creatophora cinerea LC
Stilt Black-winged Himantopus himantopus LC
Stonechat African Saxicola torquatus LC
Sunbird Amethyst Chalcomitra amethystina LC
Sunbird White-bellied Cinnyris talatala LC
Swallow Barn Hirundo rustica LC
Swallow Greater Striped Hirundo cucullata LC
Swallow White-throated Hirundo albigularis LC
Swamp-warbler Lesser Acrocephalus gracilirostris LC
Swift African Black Apus barbatus LC
Swift Horus Apus horus LC
Swift Little Apus affinis LC
Swift White-rumped Apus caffer LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Tchagra Brown-crowned Tchagra australis LC
Teal Cape Anas capensis LC
Teal Red-billed Anas erythrorhyncha LC
Tern Caspian Sterna caspia LC
Tern Whiskered Chlidonias hybrida LC
Tern White-winged Chlidonias leucopterus LC
Thrush Groundscraper Psophocichla litsipsirupa LC
Thrush Karoo Turdus smithi LC
Tit Ashy Parus cinerascens LC
Chestnut- Tit-babbler Parisoma subcaeruleum LC vented
Turtle-dove Cape Streptopelia capicola LC
Wagtail African Pied Motacilla aguimp LC
Wagtail Cape Motacilla capensis LC
Warbler Garden Sylvia borin LC
Warbler Marsh Acrocephalus palustris LC
Warbler Willow Phylloscopus trochilus LC
Waxbill Black-faced Estrilda erythronotos LC
Waxbill Blue Uraeginthus angolensis LC
Waxbill Common Estrilda astrild LC
Orange- Waxbill Amandava subflava LC breasted
Weaver Thick-billed Amblyospiza albifrons LC
Wheatear Capped Oenanthe pileata LC
Wheatear Mountain Oenanthe monticola LC
White-eye Cape Zosterops virens LC
White-eye Orange River Zosterops pallidus LC
Whitethroat Common Sylvia communis LC
Whydah Pin-tailed Vidua macroura LC
Whydah Shaft-tailed Vidua regia LC
Widowbird Long-tailed Euplectes progne LC
Widowbird Red-collared Euplectes ardens LC
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Common Group Common Name Genus Species Conservation Status
Widowbird White-winged Euplectes albonotatus LC
Wood-hoopoe Green Phoeniculus purpureus LC
Woodpecker Cardinal Dendropicos fuscescens LC
Woodpecker Golden-tailed Campethera abingoni LC
Wryneck Red-throated Jynx ruficollis LC
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Appendix E: Expected Amphibian Species List
Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
Bufonidae Schismaderma carens Red Toad LC
Bufonidae Sclerophrys capensis Raucous Toad LC
Bufonidae Sclerophrys garmani Olive Toad LC
Bufonidae Sclerophrys gutturalis Guttural Toad LC
Hyperoliidae Kassina senegalensis Bubbling Kassina LC
Pipidae Xenopus laevis Common Platanna LC
Delalande's River Pyxicephalidae Amietia delalandii LC Frog
Pyxicephalidae Amietia fuscigula Cape River Frog LC
Pyxicephalidae Cacosternum boettgeri Common Caco LC
Pyxicephalidae Pyxicephalus adspersus Giant Bull Frog NT
Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna cryptotis Tremelo Sand Frog LC
Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna natalensis Natal Sand Frog LC
Chiromantis Southern Foam Rhacophoridae LC xerampelina Nest Frog
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Appendix F: Expected Reptile Species List
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Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
Distant's Ground Agamidae Agama aculeata distanti LC Agama
Southern Rock Agamidae Agama atra LC Agama
Common Flap- Chamaeleonidae Chamaeleo dilepis LC neck Chameleon
Red-lipped Colubridae Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia LC Snake
Rhombic Egg- Colubridae Dasypeltis scabra LC eater
Philothamnus Spotted Bush Colubridae LC semivariegatus Snake
Coppery Grass Near Threatened Cordylidae Chamaesaura aenea Lizard (SARCA 2014)
Common Girdled Cordylidae Cordylus vittifer LC Lizard
Elapsoidea sundevallii Highveld Garter Elapidae Not evaluated media Snake
Elapidae Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals LC
Common Gekkonidae Hemidactylus mabouia Tropical House LC Gecko
Gekkonidae Pachydactylus capensis Cape Gecko LC
Yellow-throated Gerrhosauridae Gerrhosaurus flavigularis LC Plated Lizard
Black-headed Lamprophiidae Aparallactus capensis LC Centipede-eater
Brown House Lamprophiidae Boaedon capensis LC Snake
Striped Near Threatened Lamprophiidae Homoroselaps dorsalis Harlequin Snake (SARCA 2014)
Aurora House Lamprophiidae Lamprophis aurora LC Snake
Lycodonomorphus Dusky-bellied Lamprophiidae LC laevissimus Water Snake
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Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
Psammophylax Spotted Grass Lamprophiidae LC rhombeatus Snake
Leptotyphlops scutifrons Eastern Thread Leptotyphlopidae Not evaluated conjunctus Snake
South African Pelomedusidae Pelomedusa galeata Not evaluated Marsh Terrapin
Thin-tailed Scincidae Acontias gracilicauda LC Legless Skink
Wahlberg's Scincidae Panaspis wahlbergi Snake-eyed LC Skink
Scincidae Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink LC
Speckled Rock Scincidae Trachylepis punctatissima LC Skink
Common Trachylepis varia sensu Scincidae Variable Skink LC lato Complex
Delalande's Typhlopidae Rhinotyphlops lalandei Beaked Blind LC Snake
Rhombic Night Viperidae Causus rhombeatus LC Adder
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Appendix G: Expected Butterfly Species List
Fauna and Flora Specialist Study Sweet Sensation Vaal Sands (Pty) Ltd - Regulation 31 Amendment Process SWS6801
Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
EREBIDAE Utetheisa pulchella Not listed
Not Threatened (NT) GEOMETRIDAE Pseudolarentia megalaria [not an IUCN category]
Not Threatened (NT) GEOMETRIDAE Rhodometra sacraria [not an IUCN category]
HESPERIIDAE Afrogegenes sp.
HESPERIIDAE Afrogegenes hottentota Masked dodger LC
Coeliades forestan HESPERIIDAE Striped policeman LC forestan
HESPERIIDAE Eretis umbra umbra Small marbled elf LC
Green-marbled HESPERIIDAE Gomalia elma elma LC skipper
HESPERIIDAE Kedestes lepenula Chequered ranger LC
HESPERIIDAE Metisella meninx Marsh sylph LC
HESPERIIDAE Spialia asterodia Star sandman LC
HESPERIIDAE Spialia dromus Forest sandman LC
HESPERIIDAE Spialia ferax Striped sandman LC
HESPERIIDAE Spialia mafa mafa Mafa sandman LC
LYCAENIDAE Actizera lucida Rayed blue LC
LYCAENIDAE Aloeides trimeni trimeni Brown russet LC
Steel-blue-ciliate LYCAENIDAE Anthene definita definita LC blue
Axiocerses amanga LYCAENIDAE Bush scarlet LC amanga
LYCAENIDAE Azanus jesous Topaz babul blue LC
Black-bordered LYCAENIDAE Azanus moriqua LC babul blue
Common LYCAENIDAE Cacyreus marshalli LC geranium bronze
LYCAENIDAE Chilades trochylus Grass jewel blue LC
LYCAENIDAE Cigaritis ella Ella's silverline LC
LYCAENIDAE Cigaritis natalensis Natal silverline LC
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Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
LYCAENIDAE Cnodontes penningtoni Pennington's buff LC
Eicochrysops messapus LYCAENIDAE Cupreous ash blue LC mahallakoaena
LYCAENIDAE Iolaus trimeni Protea sapphire LC
Grassland woolly LYCAENIDAE Lachnocnema durbani LC legs
LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops ortygia Koppie giant cupid LC
Patrician giant LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops patricia LC cupid
Highveld giant Endangered (SABCA LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops praeterita cupid 2013)
Leptotes pirithous Common zebra LYCAENIDAE LC pirithous blue
LYCAENIDAE Tarucus sybaris sybaris Dotted pierrot LC
LYCAENIDAE Tuxentius calice White pie LC
Tuxentius melaena LYCAENIDAE Black pie LC melaena
LYCAENIDAE Deudorix dinochares Apricot playboy LC
LYCAENIDAE Zintha hintza hintza Hintza pierrot LC
LYCAENIDAE Zizeeria knysna knysna African grass blue LC
LYCAENIDAE Zizula hylax Tiny grass blue LC
NYMPHALIDAE Byblia ilithyia Spotted joker LC
Catacroptera cloanthe NYMPHALIDAE Pirate LC cloanthe
Van Son's NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes vansoni LC charaxes
Danaus chrysippus NYMPHALIDAE African plain tiger LC orientis
NYMPHALIDAE Hypolimnas misippus Common diadem LC
NYMPHALIDAE Junonia hierta cebrene Yellow pansy LC
NYMPHALIDAE Junonia oenone oenone Dark blue pansy LC
Junonia orithya NYMPHALIDAE African blue pansy LC madagascariensis
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Family Species Name Common Name Conservation Status
Common evening NYMPHALIDAE Melanitis leda LC brown
NYMPHALIDAE Precis archesia archesia Garden inspector LC
Stygionympha wichgrafi Wichgraf's hillside NYMPHALIDAE LC wichgrafi brown
NYMPHALIDAE Telchinia rahira rahira Marsh telchinia LC
NYMPHALIDAE Vanessa cardui Painted lady LC
Papilio demodocus PAPILIONIDAE Citrus swallowtail LC demodocus
Pioneer caper PIERIDAE Belenois aurota LC white
PIERIDAE Catopsilia florella African migrant LC
African clouded PIERIDAE Colias electo electo LC yellow
Broad-bordered PIERIDAE Eurema brigitta brigitta LC grass yellow
Southern meadow PIERIDAE Pontia helice helice LC white
SPHINGIDAE Daphnis nerii Not listed
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