SPATIAL PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

Koos Retief Biodiversity Area Manager: Blaauwberg T: 021 444 0315 E: [email protected]

B L A A U W B E R G N A T U R E R E S E R V E QUARTERLY REPORT: JULY – SEPTEMBER 2020

CONTENTS Pg.

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 2

2 HIGHLIGHTS AND CHALLENGES ...... 3

3 CONSERVATION PLANNING ...... 4

4 FLORA ...... 6

5 FAUNA ...... 11

6 SOIL ...... 14

7 WATER ...... 14

8 FIRE ...... 15

9 PEOPLE, TOURISM AND EDUCATION ...... 16

10 STAFF ...... 19

11 LAW ENFORCEMENT ...... 19

12 INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT ...... 21

APPENDIX A: MAPS OF THE NATURE RESERVE 25

Figure 1. Map of Blaauwberg Nature Reserve.

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1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, formerly referred to as the Blaauwberg Conservation Area (BCA), was conceptualised in the 1980s. In 1996, conservation area status in terms of the National Monuments Act (Act 28 of 1969) was conferred on public-owned portions of land, as well as a section of private land comprising the site of the Battle of Blaauwberg. A proposed boundary for the Nature Reserve was also gazetted. In 2000, the Blaauwberg Conservation Area Development and Management Plan (see Figure 2 below) with recommendations were approved by the then Cape Metropolitan Council and Blaauwberg Municipality. One of the key programmes in the plan was the Land Consolidation Programme, which has resulted in three of the five identified private landholdings having been incorporated into the BCA in 2002, 2005 and 2010, respectively. The Land Consolidation is now continuing under the Protected Area Expansion Programme. It was only in late 2003 when on-site Reserve Management was established. The placement of a Reserve Manager in the Nature Reserve by the coincided with, and was made possible by, the receipt of Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) funding via the Cape Action for the People and Environment (C.A.P.E) programme. In 2006, the Member of the Executive Council for Environmental Affairs and Development Planning granted approval for the establishment of the Blaauwberg Conservation Area Local Nature Reserve in P.N. 345/2006 dated 27 October 2006. The provincially-owned portions of the Nature Reserve were proclaimed as Blaauwberg Provincial Nature Reserve by means of P.N. 06/2007 dated 2 March 2007

Many of the City’s nature reserves were not properly proclaimed or were proclaimed under old and outdated legislation. Following a Public Participation Process (PPP), Council resolved in June 2011 that the City’s Environmental Management Department could proceed with the process to proclaim the City’s 14 nature reserves, including Blaauwberg, in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act 57 of 2003). The Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, Mr Anton Bredell, under section 23(1)(a)(i) of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, (Act 57 of 2003), declared Blaauwberg Nature Reserve in the Provincial Gazette 7837 on Friday, 20 October 2017. The City of Cape Town manages both its own, and the provincially-owned land, as a single entity called Blaauwberg Nature Reserve. The Vision for the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve is to “conserve, protect and enhance the unique diversity of natural, historical and cultural resources of this area for the sustainable enjoyment and development of present and future generations through education.” The Mission of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve is to, “through judicious land acquisition and the development of economically viable conservation and education-related facilities and activities, secure the protection of the entire area and ensure its long- term sustainability based on sound ecological and cultural values.” Figure 2. Blaauwberg Conservation Area Concept Plan, 2000.

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2 HIGHLIGHTS AND CHALLENGES

2.1 HIGHLIGHT: The proposed proclamation of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve as a Provincial Heritage Site was approved by the Heritage Western Cape Council in terms of section 27 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999. See point 3.1 for more information.

Figure 3. Painting depicting the Battle of Blaauwberg 1806.

2.2 CHALLENGE: The military access road to the Blaauwberg Hill was damaged by water erosion due to the recent heavy rainfall. Access to the facilities on the Hill, including the Montispectus accommodation unit has been affected. The Montispectus accommodation unit is currently not available for reservations due to the risk of using the damaged road, which needs to be repaired before the public can access the facilities on the hill.

Figure 4. Upper portion of the old Military access road to the top of Blaauwberg Hill.

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3 CONSERVATION PLANNING

3.1 The proposed proclamation of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve as a Provincial Heritage Site was approved by the Heritage Western Cape Council in terms of section 27 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999. The Council met on 28/09/2020 to make this decision. A date for the unveiling has not yet been set.

Notes on the process to date: The public participation process for the proposed nomination of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve as a Provincial Heritage Site was a 60-day stakeholder commenting period that started on 11/09/2019. The inputs received during the public participation process were generally supportive. Heritage Western Cape’s Inventories, Grading and Interpretation Committee (IGIC) met on 7/02/2020 and recommended that the nomination and the draft Gazette Notice of the proposed proclamation of the Provincial Heritage Site be submitted to their Council for approval. The Council was scheduled to meet on 28/09/2020.

HERITAGE BACKGROUND The archaeological, historical and cultural heritage of the nature reserve is both rich and varied, adding immensely to its value and its contribution to regional diversity on a landscape scale. Regarded as an area of historical and cultural significance, more than 25 sites have been recorded and mapped within and adjacent to the Nature Reserve. The rich cultural and historical tapestry of the area spans various periods of history, as described below.

Stone Age Early maritime history Battle of Blaauwberg (1806) Late Stone Age deflated sites with Shipwrecks on the bottom of the Atlantic The site of the Battle of Blaauwberg Stone Age tools, pottery and ostrich Ocean in dating back to the (1806) is located on the old egg shells were found east of mid-17th century represent an important Blaauwbergsvlei farm, to the east of Blaauwberg Hill on Joyce’s Dairy Farm. period of the early maritime history of Kleinberg. On 26 January 1996 the Khoisan South Africa and Europe. A number of Blaauwberg battlefield site and forts and trading outposts were adjacent subsections of land were Shell middens and archaeological established during the Dutch East India designated as a conservation area remains along the coastline as well as Company period. in terms of the National Monuments to the east of Blaauwberg Hill are Act. testament to the indigenous Khoikhoi The Riet Valley outpost was also used as a communities who once inhabited this camp for the Khoikhoi regiment during The battle marked the start of the landscape. Small caves located in the the first British occupation of the Cape second British occupation of the vegetated kloofs of Blaauwberg Hill (1795–1803). Blaauwberg Vlei is an historic Cape and the final end of Dutch apparently served as lookout points to ‘outspan’ and stopover on the old rule. Casualties of war were buried the Khoikhoi, to alert them to ships wagon route between Cape Town and in the dunes in grave sites yet to be coming into Table Bay. the West Coast. located.

World War II This archaeological and historical heritage is a sensitive, fragile and non- The World War II buildings on top of renewable cultural resource. Large-scale development from to Blaauwberg Hill still stand and are of has already resulted in the loss of many archaeological and historical significance. historical sites, including shell middens, forts and trading outposts. In addition to an artillery post, diesel The effective management and conservation of the cultural, historical, station, accommodation and mess archaeological and paleontological heritage are essential to conserve the building, South Africa’s first radar historical character and characteristics of the area for future generations. station can be seen here.

3.2 The Protected Area Advisory Committee for Blaauwberg Nature Reserve was scheduled to meet on 17 April and 17 July 2020, but due to the closure of the City of Cape Town’s Nature Reserves and the extension of the nation-wide lockdown, the meetings were postponed. The next meeting is scheduled for 16/10/2020.

The objective of the Advisory Committee is to facilitate PAACs are mandated to give advice and input on interaction, communication, engagement and the strategies, management plans and reports, as well as development of partnerships with stakeholders and monitor progress of implementation, promote involvement surrounding communities to promote the objectives of the in decision-making and facilitate linkages and integration nature reserves and natural areas. of nature reserves with surrounding communities.

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3 CONSERVATION PLANNING – continued

3.3 Ownership of Erf 2003 (Melkboschstrand) has been transferred to the City of Cape Town. The City purchased Erf 2003 from De Villiers and Jacobs (Pty) Ltd and is intending to incorporate it into the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve. Erf 2003 runs continuous with other properties already set aside for protection in the Melkbos Conservation Area, which is a conservation corridor that will be proclaimed as part of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve in due course. This property lies to the North of Ou Skip Caravan Park and to the West of the R27 (West Coast Road).

Figure 5. Erf 2003 (Melkboschstrand) in green shaded area.

3.4 The City of Cape Town Council adopted the Coastal By-law to protect and manage its coastline. This decision was made during a Council meeting that was held on 27/05/2020. The by-law is intended to better protect and manage our coastline. Cape Town’s coastline draws millions of visitors every year. It is a national asset and contributes approximately R40 billion per annum, or 10%, to our local economy. The Coastal By-law will assist the City to better manage the coastline; take appropriate action during emergencies in the interest of public safety; and enable law enforcement of activities that may have a damaging impact on the coastal environment. The by-law was completed after an extensive public participation period that took place from 1 August to 2 September 2019. The Portfolio Committee on Spatial Planning and Environment and the Mayoral Committee approved the amendments before the final version served before Council for approval. The media release about the by-law can be accessed at this link.

The City received 688 written submissions from the public, civic organisations, ratepayers, and residents’ associations during the public participation period, and a further 150 residents attended the nine information sessions that were hosted across Cape Town. The by-law applies to the coastal zone, and covers the seashore, coastal waters, and the environment on, in, under, and above the coastal zone. It is founded on the principles of the City's Integrated Coastal Management Policy and Coastal Management Programme that were adopted by Council in 2014 and 2015 respectively, and the National Environmental Management Integrated Coastal Management Act 36 of 2014 as amended. The by-law will become effective once published in the Provincial Gazette.

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4 FLORA

4.1 Invasive species management

4.1.1 Follow-up invasive species clearing contracts did not progress at all during this quarter due to the tender agreement with the service provider coming to an end. A new tender agreement is expected to be in place by February 2021, after which the allocation of contracts will resume.

4.1.2 Initial clearing of invasive alien vegetation in Biodiversity Network Coordinator, Jacques van der 25 hectare research blocks in BCA019 proceeded. JS Merwe, handled the administration tasks for the project Invasive Control Services was employed with funding on behalf of the City. from the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust (HHCT) in The HHCT’s primary project at the Blaauwberg Nature partnership with the Wilderness Foundation Africa. Reserve is “Biodiversity Conservation by means of Funding is also set aside for follow-up clearing in the applying best-practice guidelines for active restoration following two years. The work forms part of the Cape in critically endangered Cape lowland vegetation.” Flats Sand Fynbos Restoration Research project.

Figure 6. Invasive alien vegetation clearing in restoration area. Figure 7. Layout of the new restoration research area.

4.1.3 The Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation Area (FoBCA) hack team, under the leadership of Mr Eddie Heimann, resumed clearing of invasive alien vegetation in various locations in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve on Tuesdays from 27/07/2020. 120 person hours were invested during this quarter on the following dates: 27- 28/07, 13/08, 19/08, 28/08, 01/09, 15/09, and 22/09/2020. See below for examples of some alien plants:

Figure 8. Malva arborea (Tree mallow). Figure 9. Acacia cyclops (Rooikrans). Figure 10. Lupinus angustifolius (Lupin).

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4 FLORA – continued

4.2 Restoration and Rehabilitation

4.2.1 Fynbos seeds were collected from various natural areas inside and around the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve during this quarter, including at Basariesfontein, Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, Morning Star, and the powerline servitude. Seeds were collected on 28/07, 13/08, 19/08, 15/09, and 30/09/2020. The seeds will be used for the restoration of the sand fynbos on the lower easterns slopes of the Blaauwberg hill. Some of the seed will be used to grow plants in the plant rearing facility that will be re-planted into the Nature Reserve. Other seeds will be smoke- treated and broadcast into the Nature Reserve at identified locations to germinate naturally. 4.2.2 An article on the Blaauwberg Large-scale Sand Fynbos Restoration Project appeared in the Latest News webpage of the Society for Ecological Restoration on 30/07/2020. The article was posted by Alexis Gibson, and text was submitted by Dr Patricia Holmes, University. The article details the many aspects of management, trials and research work at this site over several years. The article can be accessed at this link. Figure 11. A female Thamnochortus plant, containing seeds.

Figure 12. Nature Reserve staff collecting fynbos seeds.

One of the largest remaining remnants of (about 500 hectares) occurs in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve. Cape Flats sand fynbos is a critically endangered vegetation type with only 11% of the historic distribution remaining, much of which is in a degraded condition. This fynbos has a high number of endemics (16 species) and a very high number of Red Listed species (147 species). This area was found under very dense alien vegetation invasion, including Australian wattles such as Acacia saligna (Port Jackson Willow), Acacia cyclops (Rooikrans), as well as Leptospermum laevigataum (Australian Myrtle), Hakea, and various Eucalyptus species. The Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust committed almost R400,000 in 2019 to promote further management and restoration ecology research in the Cape Flats Sand Fynbos Restoration Project at the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve. R333,400 was committed for initial invasive alien vegetation clearing and R53,000 for seed collecting, cleaning, sorting, treatment and in-field sowing.

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4 FLORA – continued

4.3 Management & Monitoring

4.3.1 Blaauwberg Nature Reserve conserves three highly threatened lowland vegetation types:  Cape Flats dune strandveld (Endangered),  Swartland shale renosterveld (Critically Endangered), and  Cape Flats sand fynbos (Critically Endangered). The combination of these vegetation types are seldom found in a single protected area. Over 620 plant species have been identified, of which more than 40 are considered to be threatened with extinction.

4.3.2 Twelve pairs of vegetation monitoring plots are established in the Nature Reserve for the long-term monitoring of vegetation change over time. Six pairs of plots are exclusion plots and the other six pairs are open to grazing and browsing by Eland and Red hartebeest. This monitoring is intended to objectively determine the vegetation condition in relation to grazing pressure. The vegetation monitoring plots are monitored at six months, twelve months, two years and three years intervals. This monitoring will provide invaluable information about veld condition, in relation to utilization, and is thus highly recommended as a basis for informed decision making about pasture condition and carrying capacity.

4.3.3 The Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers (CREW) at Blaauwberg Nature Reserve have been recording plant records from the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve since 2013. An annotated plant species list of over 200 species is maintained with records from their field visits. Due to the nation-wide lockdown the Blaauwberg CREW was not able to undertake any field trips to Blaauwberg Nature Reserve during the last two quarters.

4.3.4 A southern hemisphere spring-time City Nature Challenge (Great Southern Bioblitz 2020) was conducted on the iNaturalist web platform from 25-28/09/2020. Cape Town was one of the competnig cities. Below and overleaf are some of the flora recorded in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve this quarter:

Figure 13. A Thamnochortus restio in the Coastal Section.

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Figure 14. Gladiolus carinatus. Figure 15. Babiana nana. Figure 16. Moraea flaccida.

Figure 17. Ferraria crispa. Figure 18. Ornithogalum thyrsoides. Figure 19. Wachendorfia multiflora.

Figure 20. Sparaxis bulbifera. Figure 21. Pharnaceum lanatum. Figure 22. Lachenalia unifolia.

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Figure 23. Nemesia affinis. Figure 24. Dimorphotheca pluvialis. Figure 25. Nemesia barbata.

Figure 26. Rumex sp. Figure 27. Nemesia bicornis. Figure 28. Osteospermum clandestinum.

Figure 29. Pterygodium orobanchoides. Figure 30. Ixia maculata. Figure 31. Gladiolus cunonius.

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5 FAUNA

5.1 Management & Monitoring

5.1.1 The large game herds at the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, including Taurotragus oryx (eland) (see Figure 32 below) and Alcelaphus buselaphus caama (red hartebeest), were monitored on a regular basis. The enclosure fence integrity was maintained and drinking water points were constantly supplied. The eland population has grown from 8 individuals since their re-introduction, to 25 individuals. Plans are being prepared to relocate some of the eland to prevent over-population in the Nature Reserve. Eland perform an important ecological role in the . Their browsing assists in nutrient cycling, seed dispersal and vegetation regeneration, while their trampling assists in opening up impenetrable thicket areas. Over-population could however lead to increasing browsing pressure in areas with restoring fynbos vegetation, and depleted food resources in dry years. The absence of natural predators means that their numbers are not controlled by predation, and therefore population numbers have to be managed to prevent the population reaching unsustainable levels.

Figure 32. Some of the eland that reside at Blaauwberg Hill.

5.1.2 Some additional fauna observations during this quarter are listed below and overleaf (all sightings were identified with the assistance of identifiers on the iNaturalist web platform):

Figure 33. A Bronchus donkeyface weevil. Figure 34. Pamphagidae Shieldback locust.

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Figure 35. A Scelotes burrowing skink. Figure 36. Brachycerus obesus (Obese Lily Figure 37. Bombycomorpha bifascia moth Weevil). caterpillars.

Figure 38. Ceroctis capensis (Spotted Figure 39. A Hoplocoryphidae mantis. Figure 40. Theba pisana snail (alien). Blisterbeetle).

Figure 41. A Bombylius bee fly. Figure 42. Apis mellifera (honey bee). Figure 43. A Psychidae bagwork moth. CITY OF CAPE TOWN QUARTERLY REPORT – 1 JULY TO 31 SEPTEMBER 2020 12

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Figure 44. A Cape cobra (Naja nivea).

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6 SOIL

6.1 Management and Monitoring

6.1.1 Internal management roads have been affected by heavy rains from June to September 2020, causing gully erosion on sections with steep inclines. The affected roads include the old Military Access Road to the Blaauwberg Hill. Reserve staff conducted maintenance to the roads during the first quarter of 2020, but no further maintenance could take place in the second quarter due to the nation-wide lockdown to stop the spread of Coronavirus as well as the prolonged rain season. Plans are currently in place to request the Roads and Stormwater Department to assist with the maintenance workload.

7 WATER

7.1 Water quality

7.1.1 Routine water quality samples were collected from the Melkbos Pan on 27/08/2020.

7.2 Rainfall

7.2.1 Rainfall recorded in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve during this quarter amounted to 331.5mm at Eerstesteen Resort, and 233mm at Blaauwberg Hill. Rainfall at Eerstesteen was also consistently more than the rainfall on Blaauwberg Hill. All three months, July, August and September, recorded above-average rainfall.

Site selection of rainfall gauges depends on the ability of the Management Authority to sustainably service and record rainfall at each gauge. At this time, rainfall gauges are positioned at Eerstesteen Resort and Blaauwberg Hill. The rainfall measurement will provide an accurate picture of the rainfall over the full extent of the area. Rainfall records are needed to help interpret changes in vegetation and wildlife movements, and to help make informed decisions about wildlife population management.

Figure 45 (below) indicates the accumulation of Figure 46 (below) indicates the monthly rainfall records rainfall in 2020 plotted over the average accumulation of Eerstesteen and Blaauwberg Hill in 2020 plotted over curve. Rainfall accummulation was above average the average rainfall pattern. June, July, August and from June to September. September received above average rainfall.

600 160

140 500 120 400 100 300 80

200 60

100 40

20 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Ave Eerstesteen Ave BBG Hill Eerstesteen Blaauwberg Hill Ave Eerstesteen Ave BBG Hill Eerstesteen Blaauwberg Hill

Figure 45. Rainfall accumulation curves in 2020 plotted over the Figure 46. Monthly rainfall records of Eerstesteen and the average accumulation curves. Blaauwberg Hill in 2020 plotted over the average rainfall pattern.

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8 FIRE

8.1 Preparation and planning

8.1.1 No wildfires were reported from the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve during this quarter.

8.1.2 All firebreaks and fire protection measures were maintained in good working condition during this quarter. Nature Reserve staff and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) employees cut the Nature Reserve’s firebreaks with brushcutters. Landowners are required to implement reasonable measures to prevent the spread of wildfires over property boundaries. In many places the Nature Reserve firebreak is maintained clear of flammable vegetation, but vegetation in some private properties is growing up to, or over, the boundary.

Figure 48. Boundary fence at Ou Skip Caravan Park. Figure 47. Firebreak at the Melkbos Conservation Area.

The National Veld and Forest Fire Act, Act 101 of 1998, Chapter 2 clause 4(8) states that “The owner in respect of State land must join any fire protection association registered in the area in which the land lies.” The City of Cape Town, being a statutory body, is obliged to join the Fire Protection Association (http://www.cpfpa.org.za) within the boundaries of the CPFPA, which includes the entire Cape Metropolitan Area. The City of Cape Town Environmental Management Department (EMD) Biodiversity Management Branch is a fully compliant member of the CPFPA.

8.2 Prescribed burning

8.2.1 No prescribed burning took place during this quarter.

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9 PEOPLE, TOURISM AND EDUCATION

9.1 Stakeholder engagement

9.1.1 Internal meetings

Blaauwberg Nature Reserve staff attended mostly on-line meetings during this quarter due to the requirement for social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic and the nation-wide lockdown. Internal meetings included the following: • Weekly North Region Management online Skype meetings • 01/07/2020: EPWP interviews • 07/04/2020: EPWP interviews • 23/07/2020: Student progress evaluation with student Darren Niland and Dr Frans Radloff (CPUT) • 24/07/2020: Fire safety inspection at Ou Skiop Caravan Park • 24/07/2020: Site inpsection at Atlantic Links estate following illegal exacavation in natural vegetation • 31/07/2020: Water’s Edge fence site inspection • 03/08/2020: North Region Health and Safety online Skype meeting • 20/08/2020: Biodiversity Management Branch online Skype meeting • 28/08/2020: Capital Project review session • 09/09/2020: Legal compliance assessment • 25/09/2020: Invasive Species Unit Annual Plan of Operations (APO) meeting

9.1.2 External meetings

Blaauwberg Nature Reserve staff attend moslty on-line external meetings during this quarter due to the requirement for social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic nation-wide lockdown, including:

• 05/08/2020: Discussion about Protected Area Advisory Committee agenda with Mr Roy Fuller-Gee • 13/08/2020: Protected Aera Advisory Committees Chairperson’s Forum on-line meeting • 13/08/2020: Inspection of proposed passive capture boma with Dr Dorothy Breed • 17/08/2020: High mast light installation site meeting at Holbaai beach access parking area • 26/08/2020: Plumbing repairs and maintenance quotation site meeting • 02/09/2020: Koeberg Station Exercise planning meeting • 21/09/2020: Subcouncil 16 presenting Biodiversity Management Branch annual report

9.2 Benefits to people

9.2.1 Overnight accommodation

No overnight accommodation reservations were taken during this quarter due to the accommodation unit being inaccessible. The access road to the Blaauwberg Hill was affected by severe erosion after heavy rainfalls in winter. The access road has to be repaired before any reservations can be taken again.

9.2.2 Environmental education and outreach

Existing environmental education bookings were cancelled during this quarter due to the requirement for social distancing and the need to adapt programmes in line with the Disaster Management Regulations. Environmental education programmes were however conducted with internal staff, while outdoor environmental programmes (such as beach cleaning operations) were allowed to proceed.

9.2.2.1 A three-day environmental education programme was formulated for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers. The programmes were presented on 28/08, 11/09, and 22/09/2020, and highlighted the value of the biodiversity in the area where they work. The workers can now also inform others and engage with members of the public while working in the field.

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9 PEOPLE, TOURISM AND EDUCATION – continued

9.2 Benefits to people – continued

9.2.2 Environmental education and outreach – continued

9.2.2.1 – continued: The programme on Day 1 gave a brief introduction about Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, background knowledge about nature conservation and the importance of community conservation. The lesson included fun interactive, competitive games and other educational resources. The programme on Day 2 was about marine pollution and the need to protect our coastline, and the purpose of beach clean-ups and the impact litter has on the environment. The group went to the beach to do a microplastic survey which was followed by an activity of separating and identifying the types of microplastics. The programme on Day 3 was conducted by student Darren Niland who did a guided hike at the Blaauwberg hill in the morning. He shared information on the natural and cultural heritage of the reserve. After the hike the group returned to Eerste Steen where Darren did a snake awareness talk with the group.

Figure 49. Sinalo Grangxabe talks about sand hoppers and kelp. Figure 50. Darren Niland demonstrating snake handling.

9.2.2.2 Clean-up and Recycle SA week took place from 14-19/09/2020. Blaauwberg Nature Reserve partnered with the Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation Area to host a six-day beach clean-up on every day of the week. The clean-up ended on International Coastal Clean-up Day on 19/09/2020. This is the world’s largest volunteer clean-up event of its kind where communities come together with the common goal of collecting and documenting marine litter around their coastlines. Day 1 took place at Melkbosstrand. Day 2 took place at the Holbaai beach access parking area. Day 3 took place at the Kelpbaai beach access parking area. Day 4 took place at the Kreeftebaai beach access parking area. Day 5 took place at Derdesteen beach acces parking area, and day 6 took place at the Eestersteen Resort. Approximately 81 volunteers showed up on the last day.

Figure 51. North Region staff with bags of litter. Figure 52. Rope is especially dangerous to marine organisms.

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9 PEOPLE, TOURISM AND EDUCATION – continued

9.2 Benefits to people – continued

9.2.3 The Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation Area

9.2.3.1 The Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation hosted a Two Hills Walk on 19/09/2020 (with 13 persons in attendance), as well as a Battle of Blaauwberg Walk on 26/09/2020 (with also 13 persons in attendance).

The Friends of the Blaauwberg Conservation Area (www.bca.org.za) is a voluntary group of concerned citizens whose mission it is to contribute to the protection and beneficial use of the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve. They are affiliated with the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, Western Cape.

9.3 Visitors and income

9.3.1 Income

R26,924 income was generated from 1,117 visitors during this quarter.

DESCRIPTION Jul Aug Sep RATE QUANTITY INCOME TOTAL Permissible Commercial Activities R1,736 10-20 people bundles 1 1 2 R434.00 4 R1,736 Daily Entry R16,255 Adult (18+) 54 190 511 R17.00 755 R 12 835 Children (3 -17 ) 24 67 168 R10.00 259 R 2 590 Children (under 3) 1 R0.00 1 R 0 Senior (60+) 2 31 49 R10.00 82 R 820 Student (with Student Card) 1 R10.00 1 R 10 Environmental Education R133 Learner (all other schools) 19 R 7.00 19 R 133 Vehicles and craft R8,800 Vehicles 31 92 229 R 25.00 352 R 8 800 TOTAL R26,924

9.3.2 Nature Reserve Tariffs

9.3.2.1 Nature Reserve Tariffs were updated at the start of the new financial year on 1 July 2021. Some tariffs remained unchanged, but daily entrance tariffs (conservation fees) have been raised. The daily conservation fees are now R17 per adult person, and R10 for children, students, and seniors. The new tariffs will be valid from 1 July 2020 until 30 June 2021. The tariffs are posted at the main entrance at Eerstesteen Resort or can be seen at this link on the Friends of BCA web page: https://www.bca.org.za/docman/general/108-tariffs/file.html.

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10 STAFF

10.1 Staff establishment

10.1.1 A team of six Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers was employed at the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve from August 2020 until the end of the 2020/21 financial year. Their employment is funded from the Kader Asmal Integrated Catchment Management Programme. The team focussed on doing maintenance, including cutting firebreaks, and cleaning visitor facilities in the field. 10.1.2 Integrated Performance Management (IPM) reviews and Key Performance Areas (KPA) planning was completed for all relevant staff. Personal Development Plans (PDPs) were also updated for all relevant staff. 10.1.3 Declarations of Interest were submitted by all staff. The declarations of interest are required in terms of the Municipal Finance Management Act in order to manage any potential for conflicts of interest. 10.1.4 A competence assessment was conducted for student Darren Niland 30/07/2020 in terms of the requirements of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

10.2 Training

No training was attended during this quarter.

10.3 COVID-19 measures

The Nature Reserve was re-opened to the public during this quarter. All planned meetings were conducted on- line. Only outdoor activities were allowed in the Nature Reserves. Accommodation reservations at the Montispectus accommodation unit have not yet been re-opened. Only outdoor environmental education activities were allowed. The Friends of BCA hacking group and guided field trips have resumed. Contractors were allowed to resume services. Staff involved in performing essential services were issued with travel authorisation from the City of Cape Town. According to the regulations published in terms of the National Disaster Management Act various essential services were identified, some of which were required in the Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, including but not limited to, security, fire management, wildlife management, animal care, and veterinary services. A Hazards Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) was completed for the workplace, and suitable personal protection equipment (PPE) and cleaning material were issue to staff. All Human Resources (HR) forms, including Time and Attendance records are now completed on electronic forms, and staff were assisted to register digital signatures in order to sign forms electronically. Security service providers at Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, including G-force Security and Quemic Africa, were registered as essential service providers. G-force Security provided a 24-hour point guard service at the Eerstesteen Resort entrance. Quemic Africa provided a 24-hour 4x4 mobile integrity team as well as a foot-patrol ranger service. Cash collections by G4S resumed at the Eerstesteen Cash office after the resort was re-opened to the public.

11 LAW ENFORCEMENT

11.1 Plannings and patrols

Foot and vehicle patrols are conducted on a daily basis in Blaauwberg Nature Reserve and Melkbos Conservation Area. Incidents of illegal dumping, illegal overnight structures, and hunting with snares, graffiti and damaged fences are observed and reported. During these patrols various other sightings are also recorded, including animal tracks and wildlife sightings. Patrols were continued during the lock-down period.

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11 LAW ENFORCEMENT – continued

11.2 Incidents

11.2.1 A bag of various roots and bulbs was 11.2.2 Eleven suspected abalone poachers were discovered in the Nature Reserve. No suspects were arrested between Eerstesteen and Derdesteen on near the bag, and there was no evidence to indicate 24/07/2020 after a tip-off from a member of the public. where the roots and bulbs were harvested from. No abalone was found with the suspects and SAPS therefore did not proceed with any charges. One of Since it was found in the Nature Reserve and consisted the suspects that was apprehended by Nature of species found here, including Tulbaghia species Reserve staff at Eerstesteen gave a criptic explanation (Wild garlic) and Drimia elata, it was thought to of what happened. The group apparently attempted originate from the Nature Reserve. to poach abalane at the night before, Staff brought the bag in, but since no charges were but they were detected and then decided to swim to laid at the SAPS it was decided to plant the bulbs into shore through the night. According to his account the Nature Reserve. The bulbs were planted on the there was a twelfth person in their group who never eastern slopes of the Blaauwberg Hill on 28/07/2020. arrived at shore and was suspected to have drowned. The missing person at sea was reported to the NSRI.

Figure 53. Roots and bulbs planted in the Nature Reserve. Figure 54. Suspected abalone poachers being arrested.

11.3 Nature Reserve integrity

Quemic Africa deploys Nature Reserve Integrity Rangers for the provision of visitor and staff safety within the City of Cape Town’s nature reserves and natural open systems. Quemic Africa deployed mobile Regional Integrity Teams, Senior Rangers, Junior Rangers and Visitor-hub Rangers in the northern area of the City of Cape Town. They are deployed 24 hours per day, seven days per week. They also provide additional surveillance for reserve infrastructure.

Some of the specific services that the Integrity Teams provide include visitor management, staff safety, and surveillance of reserve infrastructure. Other Litter cleanup They can liaise with members of the public with regards to reserve activities, directions and rules as well as local information. Permit checks They can respond to any injury or medical emergency, Drugs / Trespassin Alcohol any wildfire, environmental disasters and wildlife-related g / Illegal incidents. Occupatio n They provide a nature conservation law enforcement service which includes boundary patrols, clandestine operations, and search of suspicious individuals and vehicles. They can also supervise contractors in the field. Figure 55. Pie chart of incidents in this quarter.

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12 INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT

12.1 Asset management and maintenance

12.1.1 Various beach cleanups were conducted in the week 14-19/09/2020. 12.1.2 All Nature Reserve vehicles were maintained in good working order during this quarter. 12.1.3 The Nature Reserve tractor was sent for repairs and maintenance to the power take-off (PTO) that is used to power the brushcutter that cuts some the the Nature Reserve’s firebreaks. While the tractor is out of commission, the firebreaks were cut with hand-held machines including hand-held brushcutters. 12.1.4 The Nature Reserve’s picnic and visitor facilities were cleaned on a daily basis. 12.1.5 The Nature Reserve’s beach access boardwalks, viewing platforms, bollard rails and management tracks were repaired when necessary. 12.1.6 The Nature Reserve’s sign boards, access boom gates and fences were repaired when necessary. The sign boards experienced much damage and weathering due to the wet winter and storm winds.

Figure 56. Repairing steps at a viewing platform.

Figure 57. Removing fallen trees. Figure 58. Removal of old concrete furniture.

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12 INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT – continued

12.2 New assets

12.2.1 The old Generator Room at the Blaauwberg Hill was upgraded to serve as the Blaauwberg Interpretive Centre. The centre will be used to provide interpretation of the historical and heritage aspects of the Nature Reserve, including the Battle of Blaauwberg 1806. A security alarm was installed at the Interpretive Centre during the previous financial year. Additional security gates were also installed at the entrance and at the battery room. An audio-visual system, consisting of a smart TV, and a soundbar, was also procured during the previous financial year and installed during this quarter.

The work and purchases were funded by a CAPEX Ward Allocation (CPX.0017722) of R100,000 from Cllr Figure 59. Installation of Smart TV screen. Nora Grose (Ward 23 Councillor).

12.2.2 Three high mast solar lights were ordered for the Holbaai beach access parking area during the previous financial year. The delivery and installation of the lights were delayed due to the nation-wide lockdown as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The high mast solar lights were installed during this quarter. They are motion-activated and switch from dim to bright when any motion is detected. The lights were placed at the Holbraai beach access parking area to support safety and security, law enforcement and compliance management. The work and purchases were funded by a CAPEX Ward Allocation (CPX.0015883) of R140,000 from Cllr Nora Grose (Ward 23 Councillor).

Figure 60. The high mast solar lights at Holbaai.

12.2.3 The old fencing at the Blaauwberg environmental education cabin was replaced with new clearvu fencing during this quarter. The previous fencing was very old and had started to fall apart due to corrosion. The education cabin is vulnerable due to the fact the area can be accessed from the beach after hours. Before there was any fencing, displaced people slept under the deck of the cabin. Valuable tools, equipment and resources stored at the cabin needs to be secured inside a fence after hours. The work and purchases were funded by a CAPEX budget of R235,325 (CPX.0017194-F1.BB) in the

Biodiversity Management Branch. Figure 61. New clearvu fence at the Blaauwberg education cabin.

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12 INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT – continued

12.2 New assets – continued

12.2.4 The old concrete picnic furniture at the Eerstesteen Resort was replaced with 23 new recycled plastic polywood six-seater picnic bench sets. The old concrete furniture had started to corrode along the internal steel re-inforcing, which caused many of the tables and benches to crumble and collapse. The new polywood picnic benches are not susceptible to rust and are also more comfortable. They were placed inside existing pine latte shade pergolas. The work and purchases were funded by a CAPEX Ward Allocation (CPX.0018233) of R285,000 from Cllr Nora Grose (Ward 23 Councillor). Figure 62. Delivery of polywood picnic bench sets.

Figure 63. Preparing a site for the picnic bench. Figure 64. Completed six-seater picnic bench.

12.2.5 A CO2 fire extinguisher, as well as several replacement fire extinguishers for the Nature Reserve vehicles, were purchased during this quarter. The CO2 fire extinghuisher was required for the server room since dry powder chemicals are harmful to electronic hardware. 12.2.6 Twenty plastic wind-proof and animal-proof litter bins were purchased by the Coastal Management Unit and placed at the Eerstesteen Resort during this quarter. The old concrete bins were not wind- proof or animal-proof. Figure 65. Placement of CO2 fire Figure 66. Placement of plastic wind-proof extinguisher at the Server Room. and animal-proof bins.

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12 INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT – continued

12.3 Vehicles

12.3.1 The CA87451 Ford TRITON (tipper truck) still has to be replaced with a new 6 ton tipper truck. Delivery of the new vehicle is still being awaited. The Ford TRITON truck was recommended to be scrapped since it has aged beyond economical repair and spends more time in workshops than being operational in the field.

12.4 Services

12.4.1 The following services were procured for the 2020/21 Financial Year:  Lindol Hygiene Services, toilet hygiene,  G-Force Security, 24-hour guarding of Eerstesteen facilities,  Quemic Africa, 24-hour mobile nature reserve integrity teams,  G4S Cash Solutions (SA) (Pty) Ltd, cash collections, and  LANDELWA TRADING CC, laundry services.

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APPENDIX A: MAPS OF THE NATURE RESERVE

Figure 67. Erf numbers and property boundaries.

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Figure 68. Key locations and gates.

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Figure 69. Nature Reserve management units.

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