503868 Hoekplaats Dolomite Ecological Ammended 2011.01.03 Final

HOEKPLAATS DOLOMITE ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

SEF Reference No. 503868

Prepared for:

Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC Tel. No.: (011) 795 3636 Fax No.: (011) 795 3336 Cell No.: 076 940 5189 Email: [email protected]

Prepared by: Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd P.O. Box 74785 Lynnwood Ridge 0040 Tel. No.: (012) 349-1307 Fax. No.: (012) 349-1229 E-mail: [email protected]

November 2010

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Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868

Section Compiled by Authorised by Flora Antoinette Eyssell Byron Grant Terrestrial Ecologist Project Manager and Senior SACNASP Reg. No. Natural Scientist 100040/08 Professional Natural Fauna Pieter Olivier Scientist (Reg. No. Terrestrial Ecologist 400275/08) SACNASP Reg. No. Pending

Wetland Willem Lubbe Ecologist Byron Grant SACNASP Reg. No. 100064/08 29/11/2010 Date

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd i Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868

Declaration of Independence by Ecologist

I, Antoinette Eyssell, in my capacity as a specialist consultant, hereby declare that I -

• Act as an independent consultant; • Do not have any financial interest in the undertaking of the activity, other than remuneration for the work performed in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998); • Have and will not have vested interest in the proposed activity proceeding; • Have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity; • Undertake to disclose, to the competent authority, any material information that has or may have the potential to influence the decision of the competent authority or the objectivity of any report, plan or document required in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998); • Will provide the competent authority with access to all information at my disposal regarding the application, whether such information is favourable to the applicant or not; • As a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions, will undertake my profession in accordance with the Code of Conduct of the Council, as well as any other societies to which I am a member; • Based on information provided to me by the project proponent, and in addition to information obtained during the course of this study, have presented the results and conclusion within the associated document to the best of my professional judgement; and • Undertake to have my work peer reviewed on a regular basis by a competent specialist in the field of study for which I am registered.

______29/11/2010______Antoinette Eyssell ( Cand. Sci. Nat.) Date Terrestrial Ecologist SACNASP Reg. No. 100040/08

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd ii Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868

Declaration of Independence by Ecologist

I, Pieter Olivier, in my capacity as a specialist consultant, hereby declare that I -

______29/11/2010______Pieter Olivier Date Terrestrial Ecologist SACNASP Reg. No. Pending

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Declaration of Independence by Ecologist

I, Willem Lubbe, in my capacity as a specialist consultant, hereby declare that I -

______29/11/2010______Date

______Willem Lubbe ( Cand. Sci. Nat.) Ecologist SACNASP Reg. No. 100064/08

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd. (SEF) was appointed by Umhlaba Environmental Consulting to conduct an ecological assessment for the proposed opencast Hoekplaats Dolomite Mine in the Pretoria West area, City of Tshwane.

As part of the EIA process, the ecological study of the natural environment was required to determine the impacts of an opencast dolomite mine on the proposed site and surrounds. This report represents a fauna and flora assessment as well as an opinion on the presence of wetland(s) on the proposed site.

The terms of reference for this assessment were as follows:

1. Provide a description of the dominant flora species occurring in the area, including floral species composition and structure, and distinguish clearly between areas containing predominantly exotic and predominantly natural vegetation; 2. Describe the endangered, rare or protected species, and/or potential habitat that occur on the study site with specific reference to the occurrence or possible occurrence of Cheilanthus deltoidea ; 3. Establish the existence of Red Data species (species of conservation concern) on the study site with specific reference to Gyps coprotheres (Cape Vulture) and Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake); 4. Provide an indication of the relative conservation importance and ecological function of the study site (to be incorporated in a sensitivity map); 5. Determine possible impacts associated with the proposed development; and 6. Propose mitigation measures to minimize impacts on flora and faunal habitats.

This report presents the findings obtained following an assessment of the study area on the 22 nd of October 2010. Due to the early season and delayed spring rain, numerous plants could not be positively identified to species level and others might still have been dormant at the time of the study. Subsequently, a follow-up survey for Cheilanthus deltoidea was conducted on the 4 th November 2010.

The site vegetation that was present on the site was classified as Rocky Grassland and Grazed Grassland. The sensitivity of the vegetation on the site was classified as follows:

Vegetation Sensitivity to the Plants of conservation Protected plants community development concern Rocky Grassland High Confirmed : Confirmed: • Boophane distichia • Boophane distichia (Declining) • Cussonia paniculata • Hypoxis hemerocallidea • Pellaea calomelanos (Declining )

Possible occurrence: Highly probable occurrence: • Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. • Gladiolus species nov. “Gauteng form”

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(Vulnerable) Grazed Grassland Medium to High - Confirmed: • Crinum graminicola • Brachystelma barberae

In addition, the study site is situated on a Class 2 Ridge which provides a greater diversity of potential niches for plants and animals than do homogeneous landscapes. As such, the conservation of ridges in Gauteng provide habitat for significantly high numbers of species allowing for their continued survival in a rapidly urbanizing province, a desirable long-term conservation goal. The Ridge policy, updated in 2006, imposes a 200m buffer and low impact development on the remainder of these ridges where the development covers no more than 5% of the property.

Similarly from a faunal perspective, the study site comprises areas of medium to high and high sensitivity. The high sensitivity rating was as a result of the presence of a Class 2 ridge, the possible occurrence of faunal species of conservation concern and the general intactness of the surrounding area. While the survey found no signs of the occurrence of Gyps coprotheres (Cape Vultures) within the study site, they are known to occur in the general vicinity of the study site and may indeed forage on the site if carion was present. Additionally, while the survey did not find any specimens of Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snakes) within the study area, the presence of suitable habitat suggests that it is highly likely that it does occur on the study site. Furthermore, suitable habitat associated with the Class 2 ridge as well as the presence of the larval host plant suggests that Platylesches dolomitica (Hilltop Hopper) may also occur here.

Addtionally, a wetland investigation was undertaken within the study area in accordance with applicable legislation and assessment methodology. Based on the absence of wetland indicators (e.g. vegetation, soil, etc.), no wetlands were determined to be present within the study site.

The area delineated as being highly sensitive based on floral and faunal investigations should be avoided by the proposed dolomite mine. In addition, care should be taken to localise the impacts likely to occur within the area delineated as medium to high sensitivity so that it does not affect the areas surrounding the study site. In order for this to be accomplished, the mitigation measures as set out in this report should also be strictly adhered to, and an adaptive management philosophy followed in terms of impacts identified during the life of the mine.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... V TABLE OF CONTENTS...... VII LIST OF FIGURES...... VIII LIST OF TABLES ...... VIII 1. INTRODUCTION...... 1 1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 1 1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 1 1.3 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ...... 2 1.4 METHODOLOGY ...... 2 1.5 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ...... 3 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT...... 4 2.1 LOCALITY ...... 4 2.2 BIOPHYSICAL DESCRIPTION ...... 4 3. RESULTS ...... 10 3.1 LAND USE ...... 10 3.2 CLASS 2 RIDGE ...... 10 3.3 FLORA ASSESSMENT ...... 12 3.4 PLANTS OF CONSERVATION CONCERN ...... 17 3.5 PROTECTED PLANTS ...... 18 3.6 ALIEN AND INVASIVE PLANTS ...... 18 3.7 FAUNA ASSESSMENT ...... 19 3.7.1 FAUNAL HABITAT TYPES ...... 19 3.7.2 BIRD SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN ...... 19 3.7.3 REPTILE SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN ...... 22 3.7.4 RED DATA MAMMAL SPECIES ...... 23 3.8 WETLAND CONDITIONS ...... 27 3.9 ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE AND SENSITIVITY ...... 28 3.9.1 Identified areas of High Sensitivity ...... 29 3.9.2 Identification of areas of Medium to High Sensitivity ...... 29 4. IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION...... 33 4.1 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ...... 33 4.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 35 5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS...... 51 6. REFERENCES...... 52 7. GLOSSARY OF TERMS...... 55 8. APPENDICES...... 57

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Locality of the Study Site...... 6 Figure 2: Class 2 Ridge and 200m buffer on southern portion of site (GDACE, 2006)7 Figure 3: Gauteng Conservation Plan and Hennopsvallei Conservancy...... 9 Figure 4: Cluster diagram derived from the vegetation data of the site ...... 13 Figure 5: Vegetation communities on the site...... 15 Figure 6: Suitable habitat for Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake). .... 26 Figure 7: Combined fauna and flora sensitivity map ...... 31 Figure 8: Sensitivity map, including the ridge buffer and proposed mine layout plan 32

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Abbreviations used in the report ...... 3 Table 2: Plants of Conservation Concern that occur on the site ...... 18 Table 3: Protected plants that occur on the site...... 18 Table 4: Bird species recorded on the study site (LC – Least Concern)...... 21 Table 5: Indirect signs of mammal species encountered on the study site...... 24 Table 6: Summary of sensitivity mapping rules utilised for areas of high sensitivity. 30 Table 7: Scoring of environmental impact criteria ...... 34 Table 8: Floral impacts associated with dolomite mining (Construction phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7...... 35 Table 9: Floral impacts associated with dolomite mining (Operational phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7...... 35 Table 10: Faunal impacts associated with dolomite mining (Construction phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7...... 38 Table 11: Faunal impacts associated with dolomite mining (Operational phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7...... 38 Table 12: Floral impact mitigation during construction phase ...... 40 Table 13: Floral impact mitigation during operation and decommission phase ...... 42 Table 14: Faunal impact mitigation during construction phase ...... 45 Table 15: Faunal impact mitigation during operation and decommission phase ...... 47

LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS Photograph 1: Rocky Grassland on site ...... 14 Photograph 2: The lower lying northern portion of the site (grazed grassland), with protected Crinum graminicola (bottom left) and the scarce Brachystelma barberae (bottom right) ...... 16 Photograph 3: Western portion with high occurrence of Asclepias fructicosa ...... 17

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Photographs 4: A rodent burrow encountered on the study site (a) and signs that aardvark utilize the termite mounds found in some areas of the study site (b) ...... 25

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Description

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd. (SEF) was appointed by Umhlaba Environmental Consulting (CC) to conduct an ecological assessment for the proposed opencast Hoekplaats Dolomite Mine in the Pretoria West area, City of Tshwane. As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, the ecological study was required to determine the impacts of an opencast dolomite mine on the natural environment on the proposed site and its immediate surrounds. This report represents a flora and fauna assessment as well as an opinion on the presence of wetland(s) on the proposed site.

1.2 Terms of Reference

Following submission of shape files of the proposed activity to Gauteng Department of Agriuculture and Rural Development (GDARD) by Umhlaba Consulting, the following studies were required: • Plants, with specific reference to Cheilanthes deltoidea . • Birds, with specific reference to Gyps coprotheres . • Reptiles, with specific reference to Homoroselaps dorsalis . • Vegetation • Ridges • The absence of wetlands on site should be verified. Should a wetland be located, a wetland specialist study will be required.

The terms of reference for this assessment were thus regarded as follows: • Provide a description of the dominant flora species occurring in the area, including floral species composition and structure, and distinguish clearly between areas containing predominantly exotic and predominantly natural vegetation; • Describe the endangered, rare or protected floral species, and/or potential habitat that occur on the study site with specific reference to the occurrence or possible occurrence of Cheilanthus deltoidea ; • Establish the existence of Red Data faunal species (species of conservation concern) on the study site with specific reference to Gyps coprotheres (Cape Vulture) and Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake); • Give an opinion as to the occurrence of wetlands on the study site; • Provide an indication of the relative conservation importance and ecological function of the study site; • Determine possible impacts associated with the proposed development; and

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• Identify mitigation measures to limit impacts on flora and faunal habitats.

1.3 Assumptions and Limitations

This report presents the findings obtained following an assessment of the study area. The one day field survey was conducted on the 22 nd October 2010 from 08h00 to 17h00. Although the study was undertaken within the growing season from October to April (GDACE, 2009), delayed rainfall within the area that the study site is situated within resulted in many grass species not being in flower. In addition, some forbs may have been dormant or not in flower at the time of the field survey, which hampered positive identification and accurate cover abundance estimates for the vegetation data. A follow-up site visit to verify the presence of Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov. “Gauteng from” were undertaken on the 4 th of November 2010.

In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the biota (fauna & flora) on the site, including species of conservation concern, studies should include the following:

• Investigations through the different seasons of the year; • Investigations over a number of years; and • Extensive sampling of the area.

However, this study is sufficient to highlight sensitivities on and around the site and was conducted in accordance with the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Minimum Requirements for Biodiversity Studies (GDARD).

1.4 Methodology

1.4.1 Vegetation Transects were walked within the perceived habitat types on the site concentrating on moving through environmental gradients encountered within the habitat type in order to identify species and communities. This was continued until few to no new species were encountered. Although not all the plant species were in flower yet, cover abundance data was collected in order to inform description of different vegetation communities, if present. Any additional information on any other feature thought to have ecological significance within the site, such as fauna or evidence of fauna, soil type, altitude, erosion, rocky cover, alien/exotic/invasive plants, as well as the presence of plant species of conservation concern and/or their habitat was also recorded. Data was analysed using the computer programme Mosaic 3.01 (Smith, 2006). This allows for objective descriptions of vegetation communities.

The ridge area south-west of the she site was also sampled, as this area was considered suitable habitat for the Vulnerable fern Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov. “Gauteng form” which could be impacted upon by the mining activities.

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In addition, this study is inline with the minimum requirements for biodiversity studies in Gauteng (GDACE, 2009). More comprehensive descriptions regarding the methodology used during the assessment can be found in Appendix A.

1.4.2 Fauna For a comprehensive methodology, please refer to Appendix A.

1.4.3 Wetlands For a comprehensive methodology, please refer to Appendix A.

1.5 List of Abbreviations Table 1 lists the abbreviations used in this report.

Table 1: Abbreviations used in the report Abbreviation Description GDACEL Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Landcare now called GDARD GDACE Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment now called GDARD GDARD Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development CoT City of Tshwane QDS Quarter Degree Square

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2. Description of the Environment

2.1 Locality

The proposed site (study site) for the opencast dolomite mine is situated on portion 23 (a portion of portion 15) of the farm Hoekplaats 384 JR, Gauteng Province (Figure 1). The study site is situated in close proximity of Erasmia suburb and falls within the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and within the 2528CC quarter degree square. The M26 Road forms the Northern boundary of the site.

The property is approximately 49 hectares in extent. The study site consists of grasslands which are currently used for grazing purposes. Existing infrastructure, on the property, consists of a farmhouse which is currently occupied by a tenant. The surrounding land-use comprises the following: • North : The Hennops River, Brick works, Smallholdings and agricultural activities • North-east : Residential community of Erasmia • East : Vacant land and further to that is an industrial area • West Derelict buildings and smallholdings with some agricultural activities • South : Vacant land and a ridge • South -eas t: Informal settlement

2.2 Biophysical description

2.2.1 Climate The study site experiences warm summers and cold dry winters. Frost occurs in winter and rainfall during the summer months. The average maximum temperature in summer ranges between 26ºC and 16ºC, while minimum temperatures in winter can be as little as 4ºC. Annual rainfall is in the region of 660mm (South African Weather Service, 2010).

2.2.2 Associated Water Courses No watercourses occur on the study site. A non-perennial river or drainage line is situated approximately 500m east of the study site, while the perennial Hennops River is situated to the north of the site (Figure 1).

2.2.3 Geology and Soils The study site is underlain with Dolomite supporting mostly shallow soils, although deeper red and yellow soils occur intermittently within this landscape (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). The Dolomite is overlain by typical red-brown, gravely soils. The chert in the area is in the form of rocky outcrops, which give rise to the low rounded ridges and hillocks typical of the area.

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2.2.4 Regional Vegetation The study site falls within the Grassland Biome (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). High summer rainfall characteristic of the Grassland Biome combined with dry winters with night frost and marked diurnal temperature variations are unfavourable to tree growth.

Therefore, the Grassland Biome comprises mainly grasses and plants with perennial underground storage organs, for example bulbs and tubers and less trees. Acocks (1988) describes the vegetation of the area as containing elements of open savanna with sour bushveld occurring on rocky outcrops and hills (Bankenveld Veld). The more recent classification of Mucina and Rutherford (2006) describe the vegetation of this region as Carletonville Dolomite Grassland which occurs on undulating plains dissected by rocky ridges (Figure 2). This species-rich grassland forms a complex mosaic pattern dominated by many species.

The grassland biome is under severe threat from urbanisation, industrialisation, mining and agriculture, especially in Gauteng. Only a small portion of Carletonville Dolomite Grassland is protected in statutory reserves, while close to a quarter is already transformed by human activities (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). Carletonville Dolomite Grassland is thus poorly protected and classified as a Vulnerable vegetation unit (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006), indicating a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future. The purpose of defining vegetation types in terms of their ecosystem status is to identify ecosystems at risk. The ecosystem status categories are similar to those used by the IUCN for species: Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), and Vulnerable (VU). A vegetation type is allocated an ecosystem status based on the proportion of its original natural habitat that remains (Ferrar & Lötter, 2007). Furthermore, the conservation of remaining grassland vegetation is important to ensure the functionality and health of wetlands and rivers within South Africa.

Therefore, the site was assessed for the presence of intact (undisturbed or untransformed) Carletonville Dolomite Grassland, as remaining portions should be conserved in order to preserve this vegetation type and protect it from extinction.

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Figure 1: Locality of the Study Site

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Figure 2: Class 2 Ridge and 200m buffer on southern portion of site (GDACE, 2006)

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2.2.5 City of Tshwane Open Space Framework According to the City of Tshwane Open Space Framework (2005), the whole site is classified as Ecologically Sensitive. In addition, the site is situated within the Hennopsvallei Conservancy (Figure 3).

2.2.6 Gauteng Conservation Plan (C-plan) According to the Gauteng Conservation Plan (C-plan), the site is situated south east of land that is classified as “Irreplaceable” and “Important” to reach the conservation targets of the province (Figure 3). However, the Class 2 Ridge corresponds to an area necessary for ecological processes such as groundwater dynamics, hydrological processes, nutrient cycling and natural corridors for wildlife dispersal.

The proposed activity will affect areas which are associated with ecological processes such as water catchments, especially on dolomite aquifers within the City of Tshwane (2005b). Unless appropriately managed, development will detrimentally affect the natural functioning of these ecological processes, which are essential for the maintenance and generation of biodiversity.

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Figure 3: Gauteng Conservation Plan and Hennopsvallei Conservancy

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3. RESULTS

3.1 Land Use The southern portion of the study site is situated on a ridge whereon the vegetation is still in a natural state. From here, the site slopes down towards the northern section, where a farm house and buildings are situated. The area directly south and west of farm house shows evidence of moderate to severe grazing. Nonetheless, the study site largely comprises natural vegetation. Aerial images indicated that the majority of the ridge was undisturbed, although some portions were historically overgrazed.

3.2 Class 2 Ridge The southern 5% of the study site is situated on a Class 2 Ridge which by definition is only slightly transformed by human activities (Figure 2). Ridges are protected environments within Gauteng province (GDACE, 2006). The term ridge refers to hills, koppies, mountains, kloofs and gorges and/or a landscape type or topographic feature that is characterized by two or more of the following features: a crest, plateau, cliff or footslope. “The quartzite ridges of Gauteng are one of the most important natural assets in the northern provinces of South Africa. This is because these ridges, and the area immediately surrounding the ridges, provide habitat for a wide variety of fauna and flora. In the case of certain of the plant species, are found nowhere else in South Africa or the world. The ridges also fulfil functions that are necessary for the sustainability of ecosystems such as the recharging of groundwater, wetlands and rivers, wildlife dispersal and providing essential habitat for pollinators. Ridges also have a socio-cultural role in that they provide aesthetically pleasing environments that are valued by residents, tourists and recreational users. Human activities such as urbanization, mining and the planting of alien vegetation may undermine the contribution that ridges make to the environment ” (GDACE, 2006).

Ridges are further characterized by high spatial heterogeneity due to the range of differing aspects (north, south, east, west and variations thereof), slopes and altitudes all resulting in differing soil (e.g. depth, moisture, temperature, drainage, nutrient content), light and hydrological conditions. Landscapes composed of spatially heterogeneous abiotic conditions provide a greater diversity of potential niches for plants and animals than do homogeneous landscapes. Ridges also form ecological corridors for the movement of species, especially in urbanised environments.

As such, the conservation of ridges in Gauteng provide habitat for significantly high numbers of species allowing for their continued survival in a rapidly urbanizing province, a desirable long-term conservation goal. The Ridge policy, updated in 2006, imposes low impact development on the remainder of these ridges where the development covers no more than 5% of the property. In addition, the following ecological requirements for applications on ridges, that must follow an environmental impact assessment process, apply:

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1) Applications involving activities on a ridge that must be subjected to an environmental impact assessment in any form must, in addition to any other requirements of law, be supported by a study or studies which, as a minimum, describe – (a) the ecological conditions – including the functional, hydrological and compositional aspects – of the ridge, (b) flora and fauna – including any mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates - that are present on the ridge, (c) the impacts of the proposed activity on a) and b)

The general guidelines which are applicable to Class 2 ridges are as follows:

(a) The consolidation of properties on Class 2 ridges is supported. (b) The subdivision of property on Class 2 ridges will not be permitted. (c) Development activities and uses that have a high environmental impact on a Class 2 ridge will not be permitted. (d) Low impact development activities, such as tourism facilities, which comprise of an ecological footprint of 5% or less of the property, may be permitted. (The ecological footprint includes all areas directly impacted on by a development activity, including all paved surfaces, landscaping, property access and service provision). (e) Low impact development activities on a ridge will not be supported where it is feasible to undertake the development on a portion of the property abutting the ridge.

In addition, a management plan to maintain the ecological integrity of the remaining of the property is required and the implementation is the responsibility of the developer (GDACEL, 2001). As per the Ridge policy, a buffer area of 200m of no to low impact development must be adhered to.

Flora vegetation on the ridge: The ridge on the southern portion of the study site, as well as the 200m buffer area comprises typical Carletonville Dolomite Grassland (see Section 3.3). The ridge-area and associated buffer zone is largely undisturbed and is habitat to numerous protected plants and also offers suitable habitat to plants of conservation concern (see section 3.4). The “Vulnerable” fern Cheilanthus deltoidea is indicated to have a probability of occurring on the study site (GDARD, 2010, electronic communication ). This fern is associated with dolomite grassland. However, the fern only grows on the chert associated with the dolomite and not on the dolomite itself. During the winter in Gauteng, the fern shrivels up and only revives when sufficient moisture is available (Jacobsen, 1983; Burrows 1990; cited in Klopper et al , 2006). Thus, although the fern was not identified on the ridge area of the study site, it does provide suitable habitat for this plant and a study conducted after a sufficient rainfall event might be able to confirm its presence on this ridge.

The vegetation present on the ridge and its associated 200m buffer is classified by this report as being sensitive and poses a constraint to mining within this portion of

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 11 Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868 the site. For the impact assessment of the proposed opencast dolomite mine, please refer to Section 4.

Fauna: The undisturbed nature of the Class 2 ridge makes it highly likely that a wide variety of faunal species may be resident here. In addition, ridges form wildlife corridors which promote ecological processes and benefits regional and local biodiversity. As the study site could possibly be utilized as a foraging ground for a number of faunal species (see Section 3.7) the ridge could play a significant role in acting as a dispersal corridor here. For detailed description of species that could occur here see section 3.7. For the impact assessment of the proposed opencast dolomite mine on the fauna in the area, please refer to Section 4.

3.3 Flora Assessment The majority of the study site comprised natural vegetation with trees mainly occurring on the ridge and on the scattered rocky outcrops through the site. Some secondary grassland was identified along the central portion of the site and close to the farm house buildings. Although most of the northern portions of the site were grazed in the past, it is assumed that the central and northern portions were grazed more intensely. These areas included weedy plants such as Opuntia stricta (Australian Pest Pear/Prickly Pear) as well as the indigenous Hermannia depressa (common in grazed and trampled veld) and Aloe greatheadii which often forms dense stands in overgrazed areas (Van Wyk & Malan, 1997). Although signs of disturbance are evident in the central and northern portion of the site, numerous herbaceous plants other than grasses were still occurring here.

The vegetation composition, especially on the southern portion of the site and the ridge-area, corresponds greatly with the regional Carletonville Dolomite Grassland. Analyses of the multivariate data, collected from the sample plots, resulted in the cluster diagram depicted in Figure 4. This figure depicts the similarities or variance in species composition of the plots that were sampled on the site. The sample plots that appear close to each other on Axis 1 are more similar with respect to species composition (e.g. can be grouped as one vegetation community); while Axis 2 indicates the variance within the similar groups (e.g. species that are not in common between the plots, also called discriminant species). The field notes were combined with the cluster diagram result and the following inferences were made:

1. Plot 64 and 65 were sampled on the ridge and comprised rocky grassland on dolomite and chert. The species composition was similar and classified as Rocky Grassland. 2. Plots 67, 73, 77 and 81 were sampled on the northern slope of the ridge and although it also comprised rocky vegetation, the vegetation composition differed from plot 64 and 65. This variation is to be expected along an environmental gradient such as the slope. Although these plots were greatly similar, some variation (along Axis 2) was noted due to the presence of discriminant species.

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Due to the overall similar species composition and for the purpose of this report, these plots were also classified as Rocky Grassland vegetation. 3. The reminder of the plots (74, 78, 83, 85, 89 and 90) contained much of the same species as the Rocky Grassland with slight differences in dominant species. However, most of these plots seemed to have been grazed more intensely than the rest of the site and also contained less forb species. The variation within this set of plots is probably the result of different intensities of grazing or trampling within the plots. Although these plots have a similar species composition than the Rocky Grassland, this reports classified these plots as Grazed Grassland to allow for the higher impact of grazing in these areas to be accounted for.

Axis 2 8

2. Rocky grassland 2 3. Grazed grassland 77 89 74 81 90 78 64 1. Rocky grassland on ridge 0 85 73 67 65

83 -2

-4 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 Axis 1 Figure 4: Cluster diagram derived from the vegetation data of the site

The site vegetation was found to be representative of the regional Carletonville Dolomite Grassland (broad scale description). The correspondence analysis provided a method to fine scale the vegetation to two on-site vegetation communities namely (Figure 4; Figure 5):

1. Rocky Grassland; and 2. Grazed Grassland.

3.3.1 Rocky Grassland Vegetation The majority of the ridge (including the buffer) and the slope were dominated by grasses such as Urelytrum agropyroides (Qunine Grass), Hyparrhenia hirta (Common Thatching Grass), Themeda triandra (Red Grass) and Melinis nerviglumis (Bristle-leaved Red Top). The herbaceous layer included Xerophyta retinervis (Monkey’s tail), Helichrysum species, Becium angustifolium , Elephantorrhiza elephantina (Elephant's root), Eriosema burkei, Ipomoea ommaneyi (Beespatat),

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Pentanissia angustifolia and the protected Boophane distichia (Poison Bulb). Scattered trees and shrubs were also present, particularly amongst rocks and included Vangueria infausta (Wild Medlar), Mundulea sericea (Cork Bush), Searsia lancea (Karee) and the provincially protected tree Cussonia paniculata (Highveld Cabbage Tree). The exposed rocks and crevices housed the protected ferns Pellaea calomelanos (Hard Fern) as well as succulents such as Cotyledon orbiculata (Plakkie) and Kalanchoe thyrsifolia.

Due to delayed spring rainfall, fire during winter and the high occurrence of chert, the grass cover was still somewhat low at the time of the field survey (Photograph 1). However, this afforded an opportunity to observe smaller forbs which could easily go unnoticed when the grass layer is fully developed (Photograph 1). Appendix B lists the plant species identified during the site visit. In addition to these species, the site offers suitable habitat for protected species known to occur within such a habitat (see Section 3.5) and the species composition corresponds to the regional “Vulnerable” Carletonville Dolomite Grassland. As per the GDACE Minimum Requirements for Biodiversity Assessments (2009), all natural vegetation that is in a good condition, such as this rocky grassland, must be zoned as ecologically sensitive. A total of 59 forbs species, 12 tree species and 16 grass species were identified in this vegetation community.

Photograph 1: Rocky Grassland on site

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Figure 5: Vegetation communities on the site

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2.2.7 Grazed Grassland

Although rocky grassland prevailed on most of the site, the northern portion of the study site showed signs of more intense grazing which likely impacted on the species composition. In addition, the area was less rocky with a dominance of Eragrostis curvula (Weeping Love Grass) and Hyparrhenia hirta (Thatch Grass). Herbaceous plants included Ornithogalum vulgare, Hermannia depressa (Creeping Hermannia) , Asparagus larcinus and limited occurrence of the weed Opuntia stricta (Australian Pest Pear). Although grazing impacted on this grassland, it still provided habitat to the provincially protected plants specie Crinum graminicola (Grass Lily) and the rare Brachystelma barberae (Platvoetaasblom) (Photograph 2). A portion in the western section of the grazed grassland points towards higher intensity grazing with a dominance of the shrub Asclepias fructicosa (Milkweed) (Photograph 3).

Walled northern boundary of site along M26

Photograph 2: The lower lying northern portion of the site (grazed grassland), with protected Crinum graminicola (bottom left) and the scarce Brachystelma barberae (bottom right)

A total of 25 forb species, 7 tree species and 10 grass species were identified within this vegetation community during the site survey. In the absence of any further disturbance, this grazed grassland may eventually support most of the plant species that naturally occurred here prior to the grazing disturbances.

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Photograph 3: Western portion with high occurrence of Asclepias fructicosa

3.4 Plants of Conservation Concern

Plants of conservation concern are those plants that are important for South Africa’s conservation decision making processes and include all plants that are Threatened, Extinct in the wild, Data deficient, Near threatened, Critically rare, Rare and Declining (Raimondo et al , 2009). These plants are nationally protected by the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act No 10 of 2004 (NEMBA). Rare and threatened plant species in grasslands are mostly small, very localised, and visible for only a few weeks in the year when they flower (Ferrar & Lötter, 2007).

According to GDARD (2010), the study site, and in specific the dolomite and chert combination provides suitable habitat to one plant of conservation concern (previously termed Red Data plants). The fern, Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov. “Gauteng form”, occurs on chert that is associated with dolomite in Gauteng. The plant is quite small and grows mainly in south-west facing soil pockets and rock crevices on chert rock (Klopper et al , 2006). Due to its preference for silica-rich rocks, the proposed name for this subspecies in future is Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. silicicola (pers.comm. Ronel Klopper, 28 October 2010). While the fern was not identified during the site visit, the southern portion of the site as well as the adjoining portion of the ridge was found to be suitable habitat for this fern. However, this small plant shrivels up during dry periods and winter months (Klopper et al , 2006) and due to the delayed spring rain it is likely that the plant might still have been dormant at the time of the site visit. A short follow-up scan was undertaken two weeks later and although the plant was again not identified, the rainfall at the time of the second visit was still not considered adequate. Therefore, a likelihood that the plant may occur on the southern portion of the site and on the adjoining properties still exists (Figure 5).

Additionally, two plant species classified as Declining was identified on the site (Table 2).

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Table 2: Plants of Conservation Concern that occur on the site Plant specie Conservation Occurrence on site Status Cheilanthus deltoidea Vulnerable Suitable habitat on the southern portion subsp nov “Gauteng form” of the site – presence not confirmed Boophane distichia Declining Confirmed. Numerous individuals occur scattered through the site (Figure 5) Hypoxis hemerocallidea Declining Confirmed (Figure 5)

Typically, the plants identified as Declining are used for their medicinal purposes which place further strain on the populations already restricted by development in Gauteng. Although not threatened yet, their numbers are declining and should be managed. In addition, the rocky, quartzite nature of the southern portion of the site could be suitable habitat for a number of succulent plants that are of conservation concern. Sixty-five percent of these important plant species have been recorded growing on ridges in the Gauteng province, while 42% are confined solely to this habitat type (GDACEL, 2001).

3.5 Protected Plants

A number of provincially protected plants are listed in the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance Act No. 12 of 1983. These plants are not to be removed, damaged, or destroyed without permit authorisation from Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD). Table 3 indicate the protected plants that were confirmed to occur on the site.

Table 3: Protected plants that occur on the site Protected plant Vegetation community Boophane distichia. Rocky Grassland

Brachystelma barberae Grazed Grassland

Crinum graminicola Grazed Grassland

Cussonia paniculata Rocky Grassland

Pellaea calomelanos Rocky Grassland

In addition, the site is suitable habitat for protected Gladiolus species that are known to occur within the area. These species were likely still dormant or not in flower during the site visit but have a high probability of occurring on the site.

3.6 Alien and Invasive Plants

Declared weeds and invaders have the tendency to dominate or replace the canopy or herbaceous layer of natural ecosystems, thereby transforming the structure, composition and function of natural ecosystems. Therefore, it is important that all these transformers be controlled and eradicated by means of an eradication and

Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 18 Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868 monitoring programme. Some invader plants may also degrade ecosystems through superior competitive capabilities to exclude native plant species (Henderson, 2001). No significant alien invasive plant infestation was noted on the site. The weed species that did occur on the site is listed in plant list in Appendix B.

3.7 Fauna Assessment

3.7.1 Faunal Habitat Types

The study site could broadly be divided into three faunal habitat types:

1) The Class 2 ridge in the south; 2) Undisturbed rocky grassland in the centre; and 3) Disturbed, heavily grazed grassland in the north.

The general undisturbed nature of the study site as well as the fact that it is located in the Henopsvallei Conservancy (and within close proximity of the Renosterspruit Conservancy) makes it likely that a wide variety of faunal species may be encountered here. These possibilities are discussed below with special emphasis placed on species of conservation concern.

3.7.2 Bird Species of Conservation Concern

The identification of species whose existence is threatened is a key element in the processes of defining global, regional and local priorities for conservation (Barnes, 2000). Threatened bird species occurring in an area ear-marked for potential development need to be identified so that mitigation measures can be put into place to ensure the persistence of the species within the area.

The quarter degree square in which the study site is located is home to 311 bird species, of which 14 are classified as species of conservation concern. In addition more than 300 bird species have been recorded on the nearby Renosterspruit Conservancy. The study site is thus located within an area of exceptional bird diversity.

The current study was conducted with specific reference to determine the likelihood of Gyps coprotheres (Cape Vulture) occurring on the study site. Other bird species of conservation concern that have been recorded in the vicinity of the study site (see the South African Bird Atlas Project - QDS 2528CC) and that have a high probability of occurring on the study site are also discussed:

3.7.2.1 Gyps coprotheres (Cape Vulture) The Cape Vulture is classified as Vulnerable globally and in South Africa. The number of breeding pairs has declined at most breeding colonies during recent years (Barnes, 2000). Historically changing land-use patterns negatively impacted Cape Vultures – the replacement of wild ungulates with domestic stock and improved husbandry techniques reduced the number of stock left dead in open veld, thus Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 19 Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868 reducing the species food supply (Barnes, 2000). Recent impacts include habitat loss, high electrocution rates as a result of powerline structures, and persecution by shooting and poisoning. Human disturbances at breeding colonies also reduce breeding success and birds are often killed for use in traditional medicine (Hockey et al., 2007).

Cape Vultures forage over open grassland and woodland, but is dependent on tall cliffs for breeding. They range widely while foraging and search aerially for carcasses or potential prey. They are usually closely linked to subsistence communal-grazing areas where stock losses are high and are found here in groups of up to 100, but hardly ever more than 250 (Hockey et al., 2007).

Likelihood of occurrence Cape Vultures are mostly found in mountainous or open country with inselbergs and escarpments where they forage widely over open grassland, woodland and agricultural areas. Cape Vultures were not observed on the study site or in the surrounding area during the survey. Habitat such as rocky cliffs, inselbergs and escarpments are present in the larger area surrounding the study site. Furthermore, it is known that breeding colonies of Cape Vultures are present in the greater Magaliesberg area.

However, information obtained during the survey in terms of the presence of suitable breeding habitat suggests that Cape Vultures are not likely to breed or be resident on the study site. The area could, however, potentially be used as an occasional foraging ground for Cape Vulture when carrion is present.

3.7.2.2 Falco biarmicus (Lanner Falcon) Lanner Falcons are classified as Near Threatened in South Africa. They are most frequently encountered in open grassland, open or cleared woodland, and agricultural areas. Breeding pairs generally favour habitats where cliffs are available as nest and roost sites, but will use alternative sites (e.g. trees, electricity pylons, buildings) if cliffs are absent. Collisions with overhead transmission lines and fences account for a high percentage of reported injuries and fatalities (Barnes, 2000).

Lanner Falcons have been recorded in the vicinity of the study site. Although it is unlikely that they would be resident here, the site could be used as an intermittent foraging ground.

3.7.2.3 Falco naumanni (Lesser Kestrel) The Lesser Kestrel is classified as Vulnerable in South Africa. They are gregarious, occur commonly in open country and are attracted to abundances of swarming insects such as the alates of termites, locusts and grasshoppers, crickets, mole crickets and large beetles (Barnes, 2000 and references therein). They prefer to forage in pristine grassland, but will also hunt in converted grassland such as small scale pasture, provided the conversion is not total. Individuals will range over areas of 30km 2 to 178km 2.

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The study site could thus fall within the home range of Lesser Kestrels that have been recorded in the area. The destruction and fragmentation of habitats through agricultural intensification, afforestation and mining constitutes the main threat to the species – as the study site is still mostly untransformed the Lesser Kestrel is likely to be encountered here.

3.7.2.4 Mirafra cheniana (Melodious Lark) The Melodious Lark is classified as Near Threatened in South Africa. It is found in fairly short grassland (< 0.5m) dominated by Themeda triandra (Red Grass). Threats to the species include overgrazing, crop farming and industrialisation.

The study site and surrounding areas do comprise of suitable habitat for the Melodious Lark. It is thus very probable that the species could be encountered on the study site during future surveys.

3.7.2.5 Eupodotis cafra (White-bellied Korhaan) The White-bellied Korhaan is classified as Vulnerable in South Africa. They are gregarious birds inhabiting relatively tall vegetation and dense grassland in either open or lightly wooded regions and are most abundant at the interface between grassland and savanna biomes. Habitat loss through crop farming, overgrazing, burning and high human densities has resulted in population declines throughout much of its range.

The White-bellied Korhaan has been recorded in the vicinity of the study site. The habitat on the study site could also be suitable for the White-bellied Korhaan to occur here. However, their occurrence here will most likely be seasonal, as the species prefer tall grassland which will only be present during the summer months and rainy season.

3.7.2.6 Other bird species encountered on the study site During the field survey 24 bird species were either seen or heard on the study site (Table 4). None of these were species of conservation concern, but a number of interesting species were recorded. For instance, Afrotis afraoides (Northern Black Korhaan) and Falco rupicolis (Rock Kestrel) are both listed as Near-Endemics in South Africa. The number of raptors recorded on site suggests that the study side could be occupied by a flourishing small mammal community.

Table 4: Bird species recorded on the study site (LC – Least Concern) No Status Species Name Common Name 1 LC Myrmecocichla Anteating Chat formicivora 2 LC Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow

3 LC Lybius torquatus Black-collard Barbet

4 LC Tchagra senegalus Black-crowned Tchagra

5 LC Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite

6 LC Lamprotornis nitens Cape Glossy Starling

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No Status Species Name Common Name 7 LC Macronyx capensis Cape Longclaw

8 LC Streptopelia capicola Cape Turtle Dove

9 LC Oenanthe isabellina Capped Wheatear

10 LC Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret

11 LC Vanellus coronatus Crowned lap

12 LC Pycnonotus tricolor Dark-capped Bulbul

13 LC Lanius collaris Common Fiscal

14 LC Camaroptera Grey-backed Camaroptera brevicaudata 15 LC Acridotheres tristis Common Myna

16 LC Buteo rufofuscus Jackal Buzzard

17 LC Afrotis afraoides Northern Black Korhaan

18 LC Corvus albus Pied Crow

18 LC Falco rupicolus Rock Kestrel

20 LC Mirafra Africana Rufous-naped Lark

21 LC Ploceus velatus Southern Masked-Weaver

22 LC Colius striatus Speckeled Mousebird

23 LC Apalis thoracica Bar-throated Apalis

24 LC Crithagra mozambicus Yellow-fronted Canary

3.7.3 Reptile Species of Conservation Concern

Due to the wide range of habitats occupied by reptiles, their secretive nature, and the general lack of information on the small scale geographic distribution of specific reptile species, it is often difficult to determine which species could potentially occur in an area. Please refer to Appendix x for a list of species that could potentially occur on the stuffy site. The current study was conducted with specific reference to determine the likelihood of Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake) occurring on the study site.

3.7.3.1 Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake)

The Striped Harlequin Snake are classified as Near Threatened and is endemic to South Africa. It is a small brightly coloured snake, with a head that is barely distinct for its neck with small eyes and round pupils. They burrow in loose soil and forage underground in tunnels and cracks, and are often exposed in old termitaria or under stones. They feed on other burrowing reptiles that are seized and killed by their venom (information from Branch, 1998).

Likelihood of occurrence

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The study site comprised prime habitat for Striped Harlequin Snakes. The area was very rocky, interspersed with termite mounds which should provide ample feeding and nesting opportunities for these snakes (Figure 2; Figure 6). Rocks were overturned and some old abandoned termite mounds were opened at random to determine the presence of Striped Harlequin Snakes on the study site. However, no individual was found. This could be as a result of the season when the survey was conducted, as snakes are more likely to seek shelter and hibernate inside termite mounds in the colder winter months and are more active and widespread during summer. Unfortunately, since flattened termite mounds cannot be used again, only a small percentage were opened and investigated. It is thus possible that locating these snakes was missed by chance. The surrounding areas, as well as the habitat available on the study site make it highly likely that Striped Harlequin Snakes do occur here.

3.7.4 Red Data Mammal Species

The generally undisturbed state of the study site and the surrounding areas as well as the close proximity of the Renosterspruit Conservancy made it highly likely that the study site is occupied and utilized by a number of mammal species. The majority of these species are nocturnal and secretive and direct observations are often difficult to obtain. This was also the case during the survey as no mammal species were directly observed on the study site. However, indirect signs, that indicated the presence of a number of species, were encountered (see Table 5).

Within the study area, rodent activity was evident in the form of burrows and disturbed plant materials, especially seed bearing grasses. This suggest that the study site is occupied by a by a diverse and, most likely, intact small mammal community. These signs are expected to be in association with common and opportunistic Rodentia species such as those listed in Appendix D.

In addition, detailed surveys of the available habitat suggest that a range of other mammal species could also potentially occur on, or sporadically utilize, the study site (Appendix D). Of these species, five were of special conservation concern. However, only two had a medium probability of occurring on the site and are discussed below. Species of the order Chiroptera (i.e. bats) were excluded from the assessment due to the distinct lack of available roosting sites within the study area.

3.7.4.1 Hyena brunnea (Brown Hyena)

The Brown Hyena is classified as Near Threatened in South Africa. Hunting, killings for traditional medicine, road mortalities and intentional poisoning are the main factors responsible for the population decline. Brown Hyenas are predominantly scavengers and spent little time and energy hunting prey. Their diet includes a wide range of small mammals, birds, reptiles and insects and they range across wide home ranges. Carrion constitutes a major part of their diet and consists of any vertebrate remains that they may locate. They are mainly nocturnal but there is some crepuscular and diurnal activity.

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In Gauteng, Brown Hyenas favour rocky mountainous areas with some bush cover (Skinner & Chimimba, 2005). Cover in which to lie up during the day is an essential habitat requirement. Water is not a requirement although they drink it when it is available. The suitability of the surrounding habitat in addition to the proximity of the Renosterspruit Conservancy makes it feasible that Brown Hyenas could occur in the greater area. It is, however not very likely that Brown Hyena will be resident on the study site as a result of its small size and general lack of available cover. Nevertheless, the study site could be used for occasional foraging or fall within the home range of individuals occurring in the vicinity.

3.7.4.2 Atelerix frontalis (South African Hedgehog)

The South African Hedgehog is classified as Near Threatened in South Africa with agricultural activities and urbanisation the primary causes of population declines. They occur in a wide variety of habitats, but require dry cover for nesting places. They are usually solitary but also occur in pairs and in groups consisting of a female with young (Skinner & Chimimba, 2005). They are omnivorous with their diet mainly consisting of invertebrates, small vertebrates, and some vegetable matter including fungi.

The habitat where they occur must provide a plentiful supply of insects and other food items as well as adequate cover. After conducting a habitat assessment it was concluded that the study site does provide some of these requirements but could not be described as ideal habitat. South African Hedehogs could thus occur here, however it is unlikely.

Table 5: Indirect signs of mammal species encountered on the study site Species Name Common Name Indirect sign of species presence Canis mesomelas Black-backed Jackal Scat

Genetta genetta Small-spotted Genet Scat and spoor

Hystrix africaeaustralis Porcupine Quills

Cryptomys hottentotus Common Mole Rat Burrows

Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare Scat

Orycteropus afer Aardvark Excavated termite mounds

Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker Scat and spoor

Raphicerus campestris Steenbok Scat and spoor

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a) b)

Photographs 4: A rodent burrow encountered on the study site (a) and signs that aardvark utilize the termite mounds found in some areas of the study site (b)

3.7.5 Invertebrate Species of Conservation Concern

A total of 198 butterfly species could potentially occur in quarter degree square 2528CC in which the study site is located (Appendix F), including two species of conservation concern, namely: Metisella meninx (Marsh Sylph) and Platylesches dolomitica (Hilltop Hopper). Metisella meninx is unlikely to occur on the study site as it associates closely with wetlands, and specifically those containing their larval host plant Leersia hexandra , neither of which were present within the study site. Platylesches dolomitica, however, is often overlooked and only occurs in colonies on dolomite ridges where it resides on hill tops and rocky ledges (Woodhall, 2005). The larval host plant for the species is Parinari capensis , the presence of which was confirmed on the ridge associated with the study area, making this area suitable habitat for Platylesches dolomitica . In addition the species have been recorded in the quarter degree square in which the study site is located (South African Butterfly Assessment, 2010). It is thus likely that Platylesches dolomitica could occur on the study site and may be impacted on the proposed dolomite mine.

3.7.6 Amphibian Species of Conservation Concern

Amphibians are reliant on water bodies for their survival and are impacted on by environmental factors such as rainfall, temperature and humidity (Du Preez & Carruthers, 2009). Most of the study site was made up by rocky, grazed grassland with no permanent water sources or seasonal wetlands present here (please refer to Section 3.8 for the wetland assessment). It is thus highly unlikely that amphibian species will be encountered on the study site. For a complete list of amphibian species that do occur in the area please refer to Appendix G.

Most notably, suitable habitat for the Near Threatened Pyxicephalus adspersus (Giant Bullfrog) was not present on the study site.

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Figure 6: Suitable habitat for Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake).

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3.8 Wetland conditions

The wetland delineation methodology used was according to DWAF (2005). For a detailed description of methodologies followed during the delineation process, the reader is directed to Appendix A.

According to the National Water Act (Act no 36 of 1998) a wetland is defined as, “land which is transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically covered with shallow water, and which land in normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil .” Wetlands typically occur on the interface between aquatic and terrestrial habitats and therefore display a gradient of wetness – from permanent, to seasonal, to temporary zones of wetness - which is represented in their plant species composition, as well as their soil characteristics. It is important to take cognisance of the fact that not all wetlands have visible surface water. An area which has a high water table just below the surface of the soil is also a wetland, as well as a pan that only contains water for a few weeks during the year.

Hydrophytes and hydric soils are subsequently used as the two main wetland indicators. The presence of these two indicators is indicative of an area that has sufficient saturation to classify the area as a wetland. The soil form indicator examines soil forms, as defined by the Soil Classification Working Group. Typically soil forms associated with prolonged and frequent saturation by water, where present, is an indicator of wetland occurrence (DWAF, 2005). The Soil Classification Working Group has identified various soil types that typically occur within the different zones typically found within a wetland, i.e. a permanent, seasonal and temporary zone. Terrain unit refers to the terrain unit in which the wetland is found. Wetlands can occur across all terrain units from the crest to valley bottom. Many wetlands occur within valley bottoms, but wetlands are not exclusively found within depressions. Terrain unit is a useful indicator in assessing the hydro-geomorphic form of the wetland.

In practice all four indicators should be used in any wetland assessment / delineation exercise, the presence of redoximorphic features being most important, with the other indicators being confirmatory. An understanding of the hydrological processes active within the area is also considered important when undertaking a wetland assessment. Indicators should be 'combined' to determine whether an area is a wetland and to delineate the boundary of a wetland. According to the DWAF delineation guidelines, the more wetland indicators that are present, the higher the confidence of the delineation. In assessing whether an area is a wetland, the boundary of a wetland or a non- wetland area should be considered to be the point where indicators are no longer present.

Based on the absence of the above mentioned wetland indicators within the study area, it was concluded that no wetlands were present.

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3.9 Ecological Importance and Sensitivity

The ecological sensitivity rating was based on the ecological function and conservation importance of a particular area. The relative ecological function (e.g. connectivity & presence of wetland systems) of an area was based upon the inherent function of the system or portion of land. For example, highly sensitive or dynamic systems will be those systems contributing to ecosystem service (e.g. wetlands) or the total preservation of biodiversity. Secondly, it relates to the degree of ecological connectivity between systems within a landscape matrix. Systems with a high degree of landscape connectivity among each other are perceived to be more sensitive.

On the other hand, ecological conservation importance relates to species diversity, endemism (unique species or unique processes) and the high occurrence of threatened species and species (or ecosystems) protected by legislation. Based on the findings of the study and the following criteria, sensitive habitat or areas of conservation importance were classified based on:

Ecological Function : The ecological function describes the intactness of the structure and function of an ecosystem in terms of the relationship between plant and animal assemblages and the surrounding abiotic environment. It also refers to the degree of ecological connectivity between systems within a landscape. Therefore, systems with a high degree of landscape connectivity among each other are perceived to be more sensitive.

High – Sensitive ecosystems with either low inherent resistance or resilience towards disturbance factors or highly dynamic systems that are considered important for the maintenance of ecosystem integrity. Most of these systems represent late succession ecosystems with high connectivity with other important ecological systems.

Medium – These systems occur at disturbances of low-medium intensity and representative of secondary succession stages with some degree of connectivity with other ecological systems.

Low – Degraded and highly disturbed systems with little ecological function.

Conservation Importance : The conservation importance of the site gives an indication of the necessity to conserve areas based on factors such as the importance of the site on a national and/or provincial scale and on the ecological state of the area (degraded or pristine). This is determined by the presence of a high diversity, rare or endemic species and areas that are protected by legislation. The criteria are defined as follows:

High –Ecosystems with high species diversity and usually provide suitable habitat for a number of threatened species. These areas should be protected.

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Medium – Ecosystems with intermediate levels of species diversity without any threatened species.

Low – Areas with little or no conservation potential and usually species poor (most species are usually exotic).

3.9.1 Identified areas of High Sensitivity As per the GDACE Minimum Requirements for Biodiversity Assessments (2009), all natural vegetation that is in a good condition, as is the Rocky Grassland on site, must be zoned as ecologically sensitive (Table 6). The Class 2 Ridge, along with a 200m buffer as well as the Rocky Grassland, which provide habitat to protected plants species and possibly the Vulnerable Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov. Gauteng form, is classified by this report as being an area of high ecological sensitivity. Ideally, this area should not be mined as it is linked to other ecological habitats via the ridge that provide movement corridors for species movement (Figure 7 and Figure 8). A total of 72 plant species were identified within this vegetation community during the site visit.

In addition, the area comprises suitable habitat for the Striped Harlequin Snake. According to the species-specific spatial rules specified by GDACE (2009), 100ha of continuous untransformed grassland should be designated as sensitive where Striped Harlequin Snakes are found (it should be noted that only a portion of this area may be on the proposed development site). The area around the study site did comprise suitable habitat for the snake – therefore if the area designated as highly sensitive on the study site is avoided during the mining process, the development should adhere to the requirements of GDACE (2009).

The total area identified as being of high sensitivy was determined to be 16.47ha (i.e. 34% of the site)

3.9.2 Identification of areas of Medium to High Sensitivity The Grazed Grassland provide suitable habitat for numerous forbs and protected plants. Although not in a pristine state, this grassland is still valuable and functional in the ecosystem. The disturbances were of medium intensity and the vegetation here is representative of secondary succession stages with a large degree of connectivity with the areas of high sensitivity. It therefore has a medium ecological function and conservation importance (Figure 7 and Figure 8). A total of 34 plant species were identified within this vegetation community during the site visit.

From a faunal perspective, the grazed grassland could provide cover and shelter for a number of faunal species. For instance the Near-Endemic Afrotis afraoides (Black Korhaan) was recorded in this habitat. However, the habitat is unlikely to be suitable for any species of conservation concern.

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The total area identified as being of medium to high sensitivy was determined to be 32.32ha (i.e. 66% of the site).

Table 6: Summary of sensitivity mapping rules utilised for areas of high sensitivity

Biodiversity Element Sensitivity Mapping Rule Natural vegetation in good Area classified as high sensitivity condition Vegetation in good consition, although not Area classified as medium to high sensitivity primary Location of specimens identified. Location informed areas Declining plant species designated as medium-high sensitivity Location of specimens identified. Location informed areas Protected Plant Species designated as medium-high sensitivity Suitable habitat. Buffer to be provided only on confirmation of Cheilanthes deltoidea species. Ridge Extent with 200m buffer Striped Harlequine Snake Extent of suitable habitat within study site Cape Vulture None

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Figure 7: Combined fauna and flora sensitivity map

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Figure 8: Sensitivity map, including the ridge buffer and proposed mine layout plan

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4. IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION Any development in a natural system will impact on the surrounding environment, usually in a negative way. The purpose of this phase of the study was therefore to identify and assess the significance of the impacts likely to arise during the construction and the operational phases of the project, and provide a description of the mitigation required so as to limit the impact of the proposed development on the natural environment. Possible impacts associated with the proposed opencast dolomite mine were scored in terms of the environmental consequence and probability of occurrence (Table 7).

4.1 Assessment Criteria

The environmental impacts are assessed and the results presented in impact figures. Mitigation and management actions are also recommended with the aim of enhancing positive impacts and minimising negative impacts.

In order to assess these impacts, the proposed development has been divided into two project phases, namely the construction and operation phase. The criteria against which these activities were assessed are discussed below.

4.1.1 Nature of the Impact This is an appraisal of the type of effect the project would have on the environment. This description includes what would be affected and how and whether the impact is expected to be positive or negative (Table 7).

4.1.2 Extent of the Impact

A description of whether the impact will be local, limited to the study area and its immediate surroundings, regional, or on a national scale (Table 7).

4.1.3 Duration of the Impact

This provides an indication of whether the lifespan of the impact would be very short term, short term, medium term, long term or permanent (Table 7).

4.1.4 Frequency of occurrence of the activity

This provides a description on how frequent the activity takes place and could vary from daily to annually (Table 7)

4.1.5 Probability of Occurrence

This describes the probability of the impact actually occurring. This is rated as low to highly probable (Table 7)

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Table 7: Scoring of environmental impact criteria Nature of Impact: Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, Low cultural and / or social functions and processes are not 1 affected. Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, Low-Medium cultural and / or social functions and processes are affected 5 insignificantly. Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, Medium 10 cultural and / or social functions and processes are altered. Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, Medium-High cultural and / or social functions and processes are severely 15 altered. Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, High cultural and / or social functions and processes will 25 temporarily or permanently cease. Extent of Impact: On-site Impact occurs on-site (within the boundary of the mine). 1 Neighbouring Impact occurs within a 5km radius of the site. 5 Local Impact occurs within a 20km radius of the site. 10 Regional Impact occurs within a 100km radius of the site. 15 National Impact occurs within South Africa. 25 CONSEQUENCE CONSEQUENCE Duration of Impact: Very Short-term The impact will cease within 1 week if the activity is stopped. 1 Short-term The impact will cease within 1 year if the activity is stopped. 5 The impact will cease within 5 years if the activity is Medium-term 10 stopped. Long-term After the operational life of the operation. 15 Where mitigation either by natural process or by human Permanent intervention will not occur in such a way or in such a time 25 span that the impact can be considered transient. Frequency of Occurrence of the Activity: Annually or less Activity occurs at least once in a year or less frequently. 1 6 months Activity occurs at least once in 6 months. 5 Monthly Activity occurs at least once a month. 10 Weekly Activity occurs at least once a week. 15 Daily Activity occurs daily. 25 Probability of Potential Occurrence of the impact: The possibility of the impact materialising is very low either Improbable 10 because of design or historic experience. The possibility of the impact materialising is low either Low 30 because of design or historic experience. Medium There is a possibility that the impact will occur. 60 High There is a distinct possibility that the impact will occur. 80 PROBABILITY PROBABILITY The impact will occur regardless of any prevention Definite 100 measures.

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4.2 Impact Assessment The main and most obvious impacts associated with the proposed opencast dolomite mine on the fauna and fauna of the site during the various phases (i.e. construction phase and operational phase) was scored in terms of its consequence and probability and the significance of the impact derived accordingly. Table 8 and Table 9 present the potential impacts on the flora during the various phases, whereas Table 10 and Table 11 present the potential impacts on the fauna during the various phases.

Table 8: Floral impacts associated with dolomite mining (Construction phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7. Probability of Nature Frequency of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Associated Impact of occurrence of Significance impact impact Consequence occurrence of impact activity the impact Disruption of ecological processes High On site Permanent Monthly Definite Site preparation (e.g. pollination, 52 Med-High (25) (1) (25) (10) (100) presence of natural vegetation, etc.) Construction of Loss of natural Medium On-site Long-term 6 months Definite 31 Medium roads vegetation (10) (1) (15) (5) (100)

Table 9: Floral impacts associated with dolomite mining (Operational phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7. Probability of Nature Frequency of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Associated Impact of occurrence of Significance impact impact Consequence occurrence of impact activity the impact Stripping of Loss of natural High On site Permanent Daily 76 Definite High

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Probability of Nature Frequency of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Associated Impact of occurrence of Significance impact impact Consequence occurrence of impact activity the impact topsoil and vegetation, pollinators, (25) (1) (25) (25) (100) overburden and other associated biodiversity; Destruction of protected and “Declining” plant species and habitats; Possible impacts on the suitable habitat for the Vulnerable Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov . “Gauteng form Deterance of pollinators from the site and influence pollination Neighbouring Drilling and High Long term Weekly High activites which could (5) 60 Medium blasting (25) (15) (15) (80) influence the persistence of plants in the long term. Dust Potential effects on generation photosynthesis, Low- from vehicle respiration, transpiration Neighbouring Short-term Daily High Medium 40 Medium movement and and allow the (5) (5) (25) (80) 5 mining penetration of phytotoxic operations gaseous pollutants

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Probability of Nature Frequency of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Associated Impact of occurrence of Significance impact impact Consequence occurrence of impact activity the impact (e.g. crushing) Low- Increase in exotic Neighbouring Long-term 6 months Medium Rehabilitation Medium 30 Low-Medium vegetation (5) (15) (5) (60) (5)

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Table 10: Faunal impacts associated with dolomite mining (Construction phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7.

Probability of Nature Frequency of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Impact of occurrence of Significance impact impact Consequence occurrence of impact activity the impact

Site High Neighbouring Permanent Annually Definite Loss of faunal habitats 56 Med-High Preperation (25) (5) (25) (1) (100) Construction Fragmentation of faunal Medium Local Long-term 6 months Definite of roads used 40 Medium habitats (10) (10) (15) (5) (100) by haul trucks

Table 11: Faunal impacts associated with dolomite mining (Operational phase). Numbers in brackets refer to the environmental impact criteria listed in Table 7. Probability of Frequency of Nature of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Impact occurrence of Significance impact impact impact Consequence occurrence of activity the impact Stripping of topsoil and Impacts on surrounding overburden; habitat and species (e.g. Drilling and movement out of blasting; Dust general area, High Neighbouring Permanent Daily Definite 80 High generation fragmentation of (25) (5) (25) (25) (100) from vehicle populations, lack of movement and utilisation of movement mining corridors, etc.). operations.

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Probability of Frequency of Nature of Extent of Duration of Total: potential Activity Impact occurrence of Significance impact impact impact Consequence occurrence of activity the impact Faunal Poaching, trapping, Medium Neighbouring Short-term Daily High interaction killing and hunting of 45 Medium (10) (5) (5) (25) (80) with personnel faunal species General human activities (e.g. health and sanitation activities, Overall increase in Medium- Very Short- Neighbouring Weekly High storage of environmental High term 36 Medium (5) (15) (80) hazardous degradation (15) (1) materials, use of pesticides, frequent and unnatural fires, etc)

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4.3 Impact and Mitigation

The impacts associated with the proposed opencast mine, were deduced from the layout plan (Figure 8), as well as impacts known to occur from similar undertaking. The main environmental impact of dolomite mining is the open pit. As with all open- pit operations, the stability and rehabilitation of pit walls and dump slopes both during and after the mine life needs to be planned prior to construction and operation (GDACE, 2008). Additional best practice specifications as stipulated by DWAF (2005) should also be adhered to where applicable.

4.3.1 Flora

Impacts on the flora present as a result of the undertaking of the proposed activity, along with proposed mitigation measures, are presented in Table 12 (Construction phase) and Table 13 (Operational and Decommissioning phase).

Table 12: Floral impact mitigation during construction phase Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations Site Preperation The mining activities will • No associated activities should take inevitably alter the landscape place within areas zoned as high and influence the ecological sensitivity (see Figure 7). These areas processes on the site, should ideally be fenced off with fences including the hydrology. as to safeguard fauna and pollinators Subsequently the from the mining area and prevent persistence of natural movement of personnel into area vegetation, pollinators, and designated as sensitive. See below for other associated biodiversity guidance regarding fence construction. is compromised. In addition, • Where the Declining and protected plants the removal of the surface occur within the footprint of the mine, the vegetation will cause plants should be removed and/or their exposed soil conditions removal supervised by a suitably where rainfall and high winds qualified specialist (e.g. horticulturist, can cause mechanical nurseryman or botanist, as approved by erosion. GDARD) prior to the commencement of mining operations, and replanted as part of vegetation rehabilitation after the mining activities ceased ( Note, these plants may only be removed with the permission of GDARD ). • Suitable habitat must again be surveyed by a botanist or ecologist during December-March following sufficient rainfall to verify the presence/absence of Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov . “Gauteng form”. • In the event that Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov . “Gauteng form” is confirmed to occur on the site, the GDARD as well

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations as the following person should be informed: Mrs. Ronell R Klopper Chief Plant Taxonomist South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria Email: [email protected]

• Mrs. Ronell Klopper will also assist in the positive identification of the plant images. • If the plant does occur in close proximity to the mining activities, a monitoring plan to monitor the impacts of the mine on the plant population and to mitigate negative impacts as well as an Ecological Management Plan (EMP) must be compiled and submitted to the GDARD for approval and enforcement. • The exposure of soil through the removal of vegetation before commencement of excavation must be limited to that which is essential. • The topsoil must be stored in such a way and at such a place that it will not cause damming up of water or washaways, or wash away itself. • In the absence of a recognizable topsoil layer, strip the upper most 300mm of soil and retain separately from overburden material. • Do not mix topsoil obtained from different sites as seedbank may be different; • If excavated and stockpiled soil material is to be stored within the study area, the area should be bermed on the higher lying areas of the footprint area and not in any storm-water run-off channels or any other areas where it is likely to cause erosion, or where water would naturally accumulate. • Piles may not exceed a height of 2 metres so as to retain a viable seed bank and organic matter, and if left stored for longer than 6 months, must be improved (e.g. fertilised) before replacement. • Piles may also be protected against erosion and weeds by means of hydro- seeding. Construction of Loss of natural vegetation. In • The access road from the M26 should be roads addition, the removal of the

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations surface vegetation will cause constructed as to have no impact on the exposed soil conditions protected Crinum and Brachystelma where rainfall and high winds species situated within the north-eastern can result in mechanical portion of the site. Thus, the road should erosion. ideally be moved to the western boundary of the site as to create a large natural open space within the north- eastern portion of the site. • Plan roads in order to limit any other traffic (including pedestrian) within the protected plant habitats (North-eastern portion of site and area of high sensitivity). • All open spaces within the mine boundary where threatened and protected plants not directly affected by the mining activities are located must be cordoned off as no-go areas by means of fencing during the construction and operation of the mine. Such fencing may include any permeable fencing material such as chainlink fencing so as to ensure that the ability of the plant to make use of rainwater, free flowing air and pollinators are not compromised. Such fencing should be constructed to a height suitable for restricting human and vehicle traffic. • Plan for dust suppression as a result of traffic along these roads.

Table 13: Floral impact mitigation during operation and decommission phase Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations Stripping of Loss of natural vegetation, • Plants that were removed during topsoil and pollinators, and other construction (see above) should ideally overburden associated biodiversity be maintained on site and used to re- vegetate the disturbed soil. • In addition, only indigenous plant species naturally occurring in the area should used during the rehabilitation of the areas affected by the mining activities. • Workers may not tamper or remove plants and neither may anyone collect seed from the plants without permission from the GDARD. Destruction of protected and • Where the Declining and protected plants “Declining” plant species and occur within the footprint of the mine, the

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations habitats plants should be removed by a suitably qualified specialist (e.g. horticulturist, nurseryman or botanist, as approved by GDARD) prior to the commencement of mining, and replanted as part of vegetation rehabilitation after the mining activities ceased ( Note, these plants may only be removed with the permission of GDARD ). • No mining or associated activities should take place within areas zoned as high sensitivity (see Figure 7). These areas should ideally be fenced off with fences as to safeguard fauna and pollinators from the mining area and prevent movement of personnel into area designated as sensitive. See below for guidance regarding fence construction. Possible impacts on the • The suitable habitat must again be suitable habitat for the surveyed by a botanist or ecologist Vulnerable Cheilanthus during December-March following deltoidea subsp. nov . sufficient rainfall to verify the “Gauteng form presence/absence of Cheilanthus deltoidea subsp. nov . “Gauteng form. • In the event that the plant is confirmed to occur on the site, the GDARD as well as the following person should be informed: Mrs. Ronell R Klopper Chief Plant Taxonomist South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria Email: [email protected]

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations delay techniques. • Blasting must be restricted to periods of calm wind conditions to minimise the potential for dust dispersion. Dust generation Dust may affect • Vegetation cover should be maintained from vehicle photosynthesis, respiration, until such time as soil stripping is movement and transpiration and allow the required. mining operations penetration of phytotoxic • Blasting must be restricted to periods (e.g. crushing) gaseous pollutants. Visible of calm wind conditions to minimise the injury symptoms may occur potential for dust dispersion. and generally there is • Mitigation actions such as the decreased productivity. Most reduction of vehicle speed and proper of the plant communities are signage should also be implemented. affected by dust deposition • Water used for dust suppression must so that community structure be applied in quantities small enough is altered. not to generate run-off and result in soil erosion. • Exposed soil that has the potential for generating dust must be re-vegetated or stabilised as soon as possible after construction work is completed, or kept damp until re-vegetation occurs. • Excavation, handling and transport of topsoil and spoil should ideally be avoided during periods of excessive wind. Rehabilitation After closure, un- • An alien vegetation monitoring and rehabilitated soils and areas management plan must be developed where activities/traffic during and implemented to identify and the operational phase prevent the possible spread and the prevented the colonisation by continued removal of alien invasive plants will be colonised by species. pioneer species, many of • Alien plants must be removed as soon which include invasive and as they are detected. Any proclaimed alien plant species. weed or alien species that germinates during the contract period shall be cleared by hand before flowering. • Re-vegetation of disturbed areas must be undertaken using plant species indigenous to the area. • After closure, roads should be obliterated by breaking the surface crust and erecting earth embankments to prevent erosion, while vegetation should be re-established, unless the landowner requests that the roads be retained for his personal use.

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4.4.1 Fauna Due to the nature of open cast mining activities, most of the existing natural habitat will be destroyed even if mitigation measures are implemented. The mining activities will inevitably alter or destroy the habitat of most fauna species resulting in the lack of suitable habitat on the site or surrounding areas. The noise from construction vehicles and related activities could disturb and therefore deter fauna from the study site and adjacent areas which could lead to a decline in species number and/or eradication of the faunal species concerned. Fragmentation of the landscape is expected which could also lead to a reduction in suitable migratory routes and dispersal patterns of fauna. Furthermore, poaching incidence could increase as a result of people occupying the site. Mitigation measures to limit the impact of the proposed activities are presented in Table 14 and Table 15.

Table 14: Faunal impact mitigation during construction phase Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations Site Preperation The nature of mining Protection of fauna activities makes it inevitable • No development should take place within that faunal habitats will be the area zoned as high sensitivity (please lost. As aresult, the habitat refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8). will become unsuitable for • If possible, mining should commence in faunal occupation and may winter when nests and breeding pairs are impact on the dynamics of least likely to be encountered and faunal some populations. diversity is at its lowest. Furthermore, the resultant • No animal may under any circumstances fragmentation may impact on be handled, removed or be interfered the population dynamics of with. faunal species occurring in • Should faunal species of conservation the surrounding area as they concern (e.g. Homoroselaps dorsalis ) or may use the study site for any other species need to be removed dispersal or foraging events. from the study area, a faunal capture and relocation plan should be developed and implemented by a faunal specialist approved by GDARD. This is important for the planning and execution of all animal relocation activities so that animals are not introduced into areas where population stress is already being felt or where they don’t naturally occur. • Ensure that the study site is kept clean, tidy and free of rubbish that would otherwise attract animals. Fencing to lessen impact on species occupying adjacent habitats • Demarcate the mining area in order to control movement of personnel and vehicles as well as providing boundaries for construction sites in order to limit dilution or spread of peripheral impacts.

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations • Fencing should be erected around the periphery of the designated mining area. These fences should be impermeable to sensitive faunal species such as the Striped Harlequin Snake Homoroselaps dorsalis and have a low ecological footprint. Such a fence is to be made up of ¼ inch mesh wire screening built up to 1.5m and buried 30cm below ground. The fence should slant outwards at a 30° angle from top to bottom. Supporting stakes must be placed inside the fence and should not contain any gates. Tall vegetation both inside and outside the fence must be removed periodically. Topsoil Conservation for habitat rehabilitation after mining • Prior to the commencement of mining, strip the available topsoil layer and store separately from overburden material. • In the absence of a recognizable topsoil layer, strip the upper most 300mm of soil and retain separately from overburden material. • Store topsoil in such a way and in such a place that will not cause the damming up of water, erosion gullies, or wash away itself. Construction of Destruction of natural Protection of fauna roads used by habitat. In addition, the • Make use of existing roads and tracks haul trucks removal of the surface where feasible, rather than creating new vegetation will cause routes. exposed soil conditions • If additional access routes are planned, where rainfall and high winds sensitive areas as set out in this report can cause mechanical should be avoided. erosion • Ensure that adequate vehicle turning areas are allowed for. • No off-road driving outside of demarcated areas is permitted. • Plan for dust suppression as a result of traffic along roads. • Runoff from roads must be managed to avoid erosion and pollution problems.

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Table 15: Faunal impact mitigation during operation and decommission phase Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations Stripping of Most faunal species are Blasting activities topsoil and sensitive to disturbances and • Plan the type, duration and timing of overburden; are unlikely to occupy blasting procedures with due cognisance Drilling and habitats that are affected by of other land uses and structures in the blasting; Dust mining activities. Faunal vicinity. generation from species occurring in adjacent • Take measures to limit flyrock during vehicle areas might also be blasting. movement and negatively affected. For • Collect and remove all flyrock (of mining instance, the construction of diameter 150mm and larger) which falls operations. new roads to utilize the beyond the cleared working area, mining site as well as dust together with the rock spill. and noise associated with Noise and dust mining activities could • Manage dust resultant from the works negatively impact on faunal and fugitive dust in an efficient and species that occur within the environmentally sensitive manner as an surrounding areas in various excessive amount of dust may affect the ways (e.g. movement out of occurrence of Platylesches dolomitica . general area, fragmentation • Limit the production of dust and damage of populations, lack of caused by dust through regular dust utilisation of movement suppression. corridors, etc.). These • Ensure that a dust control system (i.e. activities could specifically sprinkler or vacuum) is installed and affect species of maintained in an operating condition. conservation concern that Pollution control could possible occur on the • Do not dump any waste of any nature in study site such as areas around the study site as this may Homoroselaps dorsalis and negatively impact faunal species that Platylesches dolomitica . occur there.

• Immediately clean any accidental oil or fuel spills or leakages. Impacts on species of conservation concern • Mining should avoid areas designated as sensitive in this report so as to limit impacts on Homoroselaps dorsalis. Faunal interaction Negative faunal interactions Protection of fauna with personnel that could be associated with • No wild animal may under any mining personnel are circumstance be hunted, snared, poaching, trapping, killing captured, injured or killed. This includes and hunting of faunal animals perceived to be vermin. species. This is especially • Regularly undertake checks of the important where species of surrounding vegetation, in fences and conservation concern (e.g. along game paths to ensure that no traps Homoroselaps dorsalis) are have been set. involved. • Remove and dispose of any snares or traps found on or adjacent to the site. • Have problem animals and vermin

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations removed by an appropriate organization or authority (i.e. such as the GDARD, the SPCA or a registered exterminator). • No wild animal may be fed on site. • Compile an education programme for all contractors and subcontractors and workers to ensure compliance to all aspects of the EMP as well as educating personnel in the safe and proper conduct within areas of natural habitat. Fencing • Demarcate the mining area by means of a fence in order to control movement of personnel and vehicles as well as providing boundaries that limit interactions with faunal species that occur on adjacent habitats. • Such a fence is to be made up of ¼ inch mesh wire screening built up to 1.5m and buried 30cm below ground. The fence should slant outwards at a 30° angle from top to bottom. Supporting stakes must be placed inside the fence and should not contain any gates. Tall vegetation both inside and outside the fence must be removed periodically. General human Environmental degradation is • Ensure all storage structures and activities (e.g. the process where the facilities for hazardous materials, health and natural environment of an chemicals, fuels, oils, etc. are sufficient sanitation area is degenerated to such to contain and prevent accidental spillage activities, storage an extent that the general (e.g. bunded area). of hazardous health and biodiversity of an • Provide on-site sanitation, litter and materials, use of area is subjected to drastic waste management and hazardous pesticides, reduction. materials management facilities. frequent and • Removal of dismantled structures, unnatural fires, rubble, litter, refuse, temporary etc) infrastructures, sanitation equipment, etc. subsequent to construction and rehabilitation. • Fire control • Take adequate precautions to ensure that fires are not started as a result of works on site. • Develop and establish a fire management plan for the maintaining of fire breaks around work sites. Firebreaks must be viewed as an integral part of the fire management strategy and not as a separate protection measure. The width

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations of a break is dictated by the surrounding fuel, slope (topography) and potential fire behaviour. While general rules may apply, it is best to do an assessment specific to this task so as to determine to most suitable width of the firebreak to be implemented on the mine. • Do not permit any fires or open flames in the vicinity of sensitive habitats. Rehabilitation Implementating an ecological • Clear and completely remove all restoration plan after mining construction plant, equipment, storage activities have ceased is an containers, temporary fencing, temporary important mitigation measure services, fixtures and any other as it could to some extent temporary works from site. restore faunal habitats and • Materials that will not be used again encourage colonization fron must be sold if possible or rehabilitated faunal species that have to blend in with the surrounding been removed from the study landscape. site as a result of mining • Clear the site of all inert waste and activities. rubble, including surplus rock, foundations and batching plant aggregates. • Remove all fuel stores, pollution containment structures and sanitary infrastructure from site. Cut and fill • Where possible, no slopes steeper than 1(V):3(H) should be allowed. This will prevent faunal species being trapped within the pit created by the dolomite mining processes (the rationale is that the new slopes must mimic the natural slopes and topography). • Ensure that no concrete rubble is present within the top 1.5m of soil. • Shape all disturbed areas to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Topsoil replacement and soil amelioration • The principle of Progressive Reinstatement must be followed wherever possible. This includes the reinstatement of disturbed areas on an ongoing basis, immediately after the specified mining activities are concluded. • Execute topsoiling activity prior to the raining season or any expected wet weather conditions. • In the event that no topsoil is available

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Mitigation measures and Activity Impact recommendations on site prior to construction, and thus no topsoil is available for rehabilitation, undertake the following: Sample the soil to a depth of 200mm in all areas allocated for restoration and send the sample for soil analysis to determine the type of fertilizer and rate thereof to be applied. • The necessary soil amendments as indicated by soil tests must be added to and worked into the soil. • After the application of fertilizers such as superphosphate, a waiting period of six to eight weeks is required prior to the execution of planting or grassing. • After closure, roads should be obliterated by breaking the surface crust and erecting earth embankments to prevent erosion, while vegetation should be re- established, unless the landowner requests that the roads be retained for his personal use.

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5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

In terms of the vegetation composition, the study site comprises areas of medium to high sensitivity and high sensitivity. The assignment of high sensitivity rating was as a result of the occurrence of one threatened and numerous protected plants on the site, a Class 2 ridge, as well as the presence primary vegetation in good condition. Furthermore, the study site could provide suitable habitat to a greater number of threatened plants. However due to the study being when rainfall was still low, their presence could not be confirmed.

Similarly from a faunal perspective, the study site comprises areas of medium to high and high sensitivity. The high sensitivity rating was as a result of the presence of a Class 2 ridge, the possible occurrence of faunal species of conservation concern and the general intactness of the surrounding area. While the survey found no signs of the occurrence of Cape Vultures within the study site, they are known to occur in the general vicinity of the study site and may indeed forage on the site. Additionally, the survey did not find any Striped Harlequin Snakes on the study site. However, the suitable habitat that is present suggests that it is highly likely that it does occur on the study site. Furthermore, suitable habitat associated with the Class 2 ridge as well as the presence of the larval host plant suggests that Platylesches dolomitica (Hilltop Hopper) may also occur here.

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Du Preez, L. & Carruthers, V. (2009) A complete guide to the frogs of southern Africa. Struik Nature, Cape Town, S.A.

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Henderson, L., (2001): Alien Weeds and Invasive Plants. A complete guide to declared weeds and invaders in South Africa. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No. 12. Agricultural Research Council, South Africa.

Henning, G.A., Terblanche, R.F. & Ball, J.B. (2009). South African Red Data Book: butterflies. SANBI Biodiversity Series 13. Pp. 158. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

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Klopper, R. R., P. Lemmer & J. Nel., (2006): Pteridophyta: Pteridaceae. Cheilanthes deltoidea , a new locality in Gauteng, South Africa. Bothalia 36: 173-174.

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

Raimondo, D., von Staden, L., Foden, W., Victor, J.E., Helme, N.A., Turner, R.C., Kamundi, D.A. & Manyama P.A., (eds) (2009): Red List of South African plants 2009. Strelitzea 25, South African National Biodiversity Institute.

Rutherford, M. C. & Westfall, R. H. (1994): Biomes of Southern Africa: an objective categorisation. National Botanical Institute, Pretoria.

Satellite Application Centre, (2000): Land cover 1:50 000. Pretoria: SAC. Obtained via the ARC-ISCW.

Sinclair, I. & Hockey (2005) The larger illustrated guide to birds of southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape Town.

Skinner, J.D. & Chimimba, C.T. (2005) The mammals of the southern African sub- region. Cambridge, UK.

Van Oudtshoorn, F. (2002): A Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa. Briza Publications.

Van Wyk, B and Smith G. (2005): Guide to the Aloes of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.

Van Wyk, B. and Malan, S. (1997): Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld . Struik Publishers. Cape Town.

Personal Communication: Ronel Klopper, (2010). Chief Plant Taxonomist: Aloes of the World Project Manager at the Biosystematics Research & Biodiversity Collections Division, South African National Biodiversity Institute

Internet references: Google Earth (2010): http://www.earth.google.com (Accessed 07/06/2010) Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd 53 Hoekplaats Dolomite: Ecological Assessment 503868

SABIF (2010): South African Biodiversity Information Facility (Accessed on 30/06/2010) http://www.sabif.ac.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=54&Itemid=5 4

SABAP (2010): South African Bird Atlas Project 1 & 2 : http://sabap2.adu.org.za (Accessed 10/10/2010)

Smith, B., (2006): Mosaic Version 3.01. Lund University. http://www.nateko.lu.se/personal/Benjamin.Smith/software

South African Weather Service, (2010): Climate Data, Preotira. http://old.weathersa.co.za/Climat/Climstats/PretoriaStats.jsp (Accessed on 21 June 2010).

South African Reptile Conservation Assessment (2010) www.sarca.org

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7. GLOSSARY OF TERMS Alien species Plant taxa in a given area, whose presence there, is due to the intentional or accidental introduction as a result of human activity

Biodiversity Biodiversity is the variability among living organisms from all sources including inter alia terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and ecological complexes of which they are part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems

Biome A major biotic unit consisting of plant and animal communities having similarities in form and environmental conditions, but not including the abiotic portion of the environment.

Buffer zone A collar of land that filters edge effects.

Climax community The presumed en point of successional sequence; a community that has reached a steady state, the most mature and fully developed vegetation that an ecosystem can achieve under the prevailing conditions. It is reached after a sequence of changes in the ecosystem, known as succession. Once climax vegetation develops, the changes are at a minimum and the vegetation is in dynamic equilibrium with its environment. Very few places show a true climax because physical environments are constantly changing so that ecosystems are always seeking to adjust to the new conditions through the process of succession.

Conservation The management of the biosphere so that it may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to present generation while maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations. The wise use of natural resources to prevent loss of ecosystems function and integrity.

Conservation A plant taxon is of conservation concern when it is considered to be threatened, or concern ( Plants of..) close to becoming threatened with extinction and therefore classified as Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threatened . Conservation status An indicator of the likelihood of that species remaining extant either in the present day or the near future. Many factors are taken into account when assessing the conservation status of a species: not simply the number remaining, but the overall increase or decrease in the population over time, breeding success rates, known threats, and so on.

Community Assemblage of populations living in a prescribed area or physical habitat, inhabiting some common environment.

Critically A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in Endangered the wild in the immediate future

Ecosystem Organisms together with their abiotic environment, forming an interacting system, inhabiting an identifiable space

Ecological Corridors Corridors are roadways of natural habitat providing connectivity of various patches of native habitats along or through which faunal species may travel without any obstructions where other solutions are not feasible

Edge effect Inappropriate influences from surrounding activities, which physically degrade habitat, endanger resident biota and reduce the functional size of remnant fragments including,

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for example, the effects of invasive plant and animal species, physical damage and soil compaction caused through trampling and harvesting, abiotic habitat alterations and pollution

Endangered A taxon is Endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future

Endemic Naturally only found in a particular and usually restricted geographic area or region

Exotic species Plant taxa in a given area, whose presence there, is due to the intentional or accidental introduction as a result of human activity Fauna The animal life of a region.

Flora The plant life of a region.

Forb A herbaceous plant other than grasses.

Habitat Type of environment in which plants and animals live

Indigenous Any species of plant, shrub or tree that occurs naturally in South Africa

Invasive species Naturalised alien plants that have the ability to reproduce, often in large numbers. Aggressive invaders can spread and invade large areas

Mitigation The implementation of practical measures to reduce adverse impacts

Protected Plant According to the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance of 1983 (No 12 of 1983), no one is allowed to sell, buy, transport, or remove this plant without a permit from the responsible authority

Threatened Species that have naturally small populations, and species which have been reduced to small (often unsustainable) population by man’s activities

Red Data A list of species, fauna and flora that require environmental protection. Based on the IUCN definitions

Species diversity A measure of the number and relative abundance of species

Species richness The number of species in an area or habitat

Vegetation Unit A complex of plant communities ecologically and historically (both in spatial and temporal terms) occupying habitat complexes at the landscape scale. Mucina and Rutherford (2006) state: “Our vegetation units are the obvious vegetation complexes that share some general ecological properties such as position on major ecological gradients and nutrient levels, and appear similar in vegetation structure and especially floristic composition”.

Vulnerable A taxon is Vulnerable when it is not Critically Endangered or Endangered but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future

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8. APPENDICES

Appendix A: Methodology Appendix B: Plants species identified on the site Appendix C: Bird species that could potentially occur on site Appendix D Reptile species that could potentially occur on the study site Appendix E: Mammal species that could potentially occur on the site Appendix F Butterflies that could potentially occur on the study site Appendix G Amphibians that could potentially occur on the study site Appendix H: Specialist Curriculum Vittae

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Appendix 1: Flora Methodology

Plant names follow Van Wyk & Smith (2005), Van Oudtshoorn (2002), Henderson (2001) and Van Wyk & Malan (1997).

Estimation of optimal plot size A number of plots that represent a given community were subjectively chosen. A list of all species encountered was compiled for each plot. An area that best represented the community was located and the minimal area for sampling was determined (the smallest area within which the species of the community were adequately represented). The minimal area was determined by a species-area curve.

Figure 1: A system of nested plots for determining minimal area (Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg, 1974).

A species-area curve was compiled by placing larger and larger plots on the ground in such a way that each larger plot encompassed all the smaller ones, an arrangement called nested plots ( Barbour et al, 1987; Figure 1). As each larger plot was located, a list of additional species encountered was created. A point of ‘diminishing return’ was reached, beyond which increasing the plot area results in the addition of only a few more species. The point on the curve where the slope most rapidly approaches the horizontal is called the minimal area (Figure 2). Because this definition of minimal area is subjective, some define it instead as that area which contains some standard fraction of the total flora of a stand, for example, 95%. The most recently proposed solution is to plot the similarity between plots as plot size increases. Minimal area is thought by some ecologists to be an important community trait that is just as characteristic of a community type as the species that make it up.

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Figure 2: Species-area curve for the study area

Cover estimates Cover was not measured precisely but is placed in one of seven categories by a visual estimate (Table 1). Braun-Blanquet and others recognise that plant cover is very heterogeneous from point to point and from time to time even within a small stand. The range of percentage points within each class allows for each observer’s deviance from the correct cover percentage.

Table 1: Braun-Blanquet Cover classes (Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg, 1974). Class Range of cover (%) Mean 5 75-100 87.5 4 50-75 62.5 3 25-50 37.5 2b 13-25 19 2a 6-12 9 1 1-5 2.5 <1 0.1 r <<1 * • Individuals occurring only once; cover ignored and assumed to be insignificant.

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Appendix A – Faunal Methodology

1.1 Desktop Survey

1.1.1 Avifauna

A comprehensive list of species occurring in the area was compiled using electronic databases (SABAP 1 & SABAP 2) and information from unpublished reports and newsletters. The study area falls within the quarter degree grid square 2528CC. Species of conservation concern that have been recorded or that could potentially occur here were noted and their habitat requirements were determined by consulting the relevant literature. Knowledge of the species habitat requirements was then used in conjunction with Google Earth mapping programs to establish whether and where suitable habitats for these species exist. It was also determined whether the specific habitat is of adequate quality and quantity to sustain the species or a viable sub- population on the study site – this analysis was done specifically for Gyps coprotheres .

The probability of birds occupying the study area was then estimated for all observed and expected species according to the following:

• High probability of occurrence - >50% chance of occurrence;

• Medium probability of occurrence - 10 - 50% chance of occurrence; and

• Low probability of occurrence - <10% chance of occurrence;

1.1.2 Mammals and Herpetofauna

The presence of suitable habitat (a habitat assessment) was used to determine the probability of occurrence of mammal, reptile and amphibian species through various field guides and atlases. This was based on their respective geographical area of occupancy and habitat suitability. High probability of occurrence would be applicable to a species with an area of occupancy within the geographic locality of the study site as well as the presence of suitable habitat occurring on the study site. Medium probability of occurrence refers to species whose area of occupancy is marginal to the study site or its habitat is found to be within the surroundings of the study area. Lastly, a low probability of occurrence will indicate that the species’ occupy an area surrounding the study area and that unsuitable habitat exists on site.

1.1.3 Other faunal groups The assessment of the possible presence of fauna from other groups (e.g. invertebrates) was determined based on available databases (e.g. the South African Butterfly Conservation Assessment).

2.1 Field Surveys

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During the initiation of the survey period, specific areas of habitat structure were selected and surveyed for specific taxonomic groups according to the methodology described below.

2.2.1 Avifauna Bird species were identified and verified using Sinclair & Hockey (2005). Identifications were supplemented using other means such as calls, feathers, roosting sites and nests. Bird names follow Hockey et al., (2007). Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres monitoring techniques usually entails counting birds at their breeding or roosting sites early in the morning or late in the evening before or after their daily foraging trips (Borello & Borello, 2002). However, as no roosting sites were expected to be present on the study site, the survey was carried out later in the morning to allow for Cape Vultures to leave their roosting sites and record birds that were foraging over the study site.

2.2.2 Mammals Random transect walks were done whereby mammal species were identified [using Stuart & Stuart (2001) and Skinner & Chimimba (2005)] by visual sightings as well as by means of spoor, droppings and roosting sights. Only diurnal searches were carried out.

2.2.3 Reptiles & Amphibians Possible burrows or reptile habitats (rocks and stumps) were inspected for inhabitants. A small number of old abandoned termite mounds were opened at random to determine the presence of Striped Harlequin Snakes. Reptiles were identified using Branch (1998). Suitable amphibian habitat was identified and then investigated for signs of amphibian species occupying the habitat.

2.2.4 Invertebrates Random searches were carried out to determine the presence of invertebrate species of conservation concern on the study site.

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Appendix A – Wetland Methodology

The investigation incorporated a desktop study, as well as field surveys, with site visits conducted during October and November 2010. Additional data sources that were incorporated into the investigation for further reliability included: • Google Earth images; • 1:50 000 cadastral maps; and • ortho-rectified aerial photographs.

Identified wetland areas are marked digitally using GIS (changes in vegetation composition within wetlands as compared to surrounding non-wetland vegetation show up as a different hue on the orthophotos, thus allowing the identification of wetland areas). These are converted to digital image backdrops and delineation lines and boundaries are imposed accordingly after the field surveys.

The wetland delineation methodology used was the same as the one set out by the Department of Water affairs and Forestry (DWAF, 2005) document “ A Practical field procedure for the identification and delineation of wetlands and riparian areas” .

The Department of Water affairs and Forestry (DWAF) wetland delineation guide makes use of indirect indicators of prolonged saturation by water, namely wetland plants (hydrophytes) and (hydromorphic) soils. The presence of these two indicators is indicative of an area that has sufficient saturation to classify the area as a wetland. Hydrophytes are recorded during the site visit and hydromorphic soils in the top 0.5 m of the profile were identified by taking cored soil samples with a bucket soil auger and Dutch clay auger (photographs of the soils are taken). Each auger point is marked with a handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) device. All cored samples were analysed for signs of wetness that indicate wetland associated conditions.. Areas denuded of primary vegetation often corresponded to areas that have been tilled, making vegetation and soil profiles poor wetland indicators.

The methodology “ Wet-EcoServices” (Kotze et al, 2005) was adapted and used to assess the different benefit values of the wetland units. An adapted level two assessment, including a desktop study and a field assessment is preformed to determine the wetland functional benefits between the different hydro- geomorphological types within the study area. Other documents and guidelines used are referenced accordingly. During the field survey, all possible wetlands and drainage lines identified from maps and aerial photos were visited on foot. Where feasible, cross sections were taken to determine the state and boundaries of the wetlands.

Following the field survey, the data was submitted to a GIS program for compilation of the map sets. Subsequently the field survey and desktop survey data were combined within a single project report.

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APPENDIX B: PLANTS IDENTIFIED ON THE SITE

Plants in RED = Protected and/or Declining

(P) Protected species (D) Declining

Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Grasses Alloteropsis semialata Black-seed Grass Rocky, sour soil. x Brachiaria serrata Saw-tooth grass Rocky, undisturbed places x Cymbopogon pospischilii Narrow-leafed Turpentine Grassland. x Grass Cynodon dactylon Couch grass Most soils, usually in disturbed areas x Digitaria tricholaenoides Purple Finger Grass Open sour grassland, mostly on undisturbed rocky soils. x Elionorus muticus Copper grass / Wire Grass Common in overgrazed veld, sour grassland x x Eragrostis capensis Heart-seed Love Grass Disturbed areas often in vlei-areas x Eragrostis chloromelas Curly Leaf Rocky slopes, mostly in open grassland x x Eragrostis curvula Weeping Love Grass Mostly occurs in disturbed areas x Eragrostis racemosa Narrow Heart Love Grass Various habitats, mostly sandy or rocky moist soils x Heteropogon contortus Spear Grass Rocky, sloped land and common on disturbed road x x reserves Hyparrhenia hirta Common Thatching Grass Well drained, rocky soil in open grassland and disturbed x x areas Loudetia simplex Common Russet Grass Open grassland, poor sandy soil to rocky slopes and vlei's x x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Melinis nerviglumis Bristle-leaved Red Top Undisturbed grassland, rocky slopes and soils. x Setaria sphacelata Golden Bristle Grass Rocky slopes or in moist soils x x Themedia triandra Red Grass Undisturbed or disturbed open grassland x x Triraphis andropogonoides Broom Needle Grass Rocky slopes or deep sandy soils, mostly in open x grassland Tristachya Trident Grass Closely related to T. leucotrix. Grows on sandy soil, open x biseriata/rehmanni grassland and rocky slopes and marshy areas Urelytrum agropyroides Qunine Grass Open Grassland, rocky slopes and sandy (moist) soils x Total number of grasses identified = 13 16 10

Herbaceous plants Acalypha angustata Copper Leaf Grassland x Albuca glauca Slymuintjie Grassland, often in shade of trees x x Aloe greatheadii Grassland, often in stony places - often proliferate in x x overgrazed veld. Arctome hispida White Cat's Paws Grassland and woodland x Argyrolobium pauciflorum Rocky Grassland x Asclepias adsendens Grassland x Asclepias fructicosus Milkweed Grassland, often along roadsides and abandoned x cultivated fields. Asparagus cooperi x Asparagus laricinus Cluster-leaved Asparagus Thicket or disturbed areas. x Asparagus suaveolens Shady places in between trees. x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Athrixia elata Daisy-tee Bush Rocky slopes x Barleria obtusa Grassland and bushveld on rocky ridges x Becium angustifolium Grassland and bushveld x Boophane disticha (P) (D) Poison Bulb Grassland, often in rocky places x Brachystelma barberae Platvoetaasblom Grassland, very rare x Bulbostylis burchellii Grassland, often on rocky ridges x Chaetacanthus costatus Grassland, often rocky hillsides x Chamaecrista mimosoides Fishbone Cassia Grassland x x Comelina africana var Grassland x x krebsiana Corchorus confuses Grassland and bushveld, mainly on rocky ridges x Cotyledon orbiculata Plakkie Bushveld, rocky areas x Crinum graminicola (P) Graslelie Grassland, usually in sandy soil, localized and rather x rare Cucumis zeyheri Grassland x x Cyanotis speciosa Doll's Powderpuff Grassland x x Dianthus mooiensis Frilly Dianthus Grassland x Dichapetalum cymosum Poison Leaf Grassland x Elephantorrhiza elephantina Elephant's root Grassland x (suffrutex) Eriosema burkei Grassland x Gazania krebsiana Botterblom Grassland x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Geigeria burkei Vermeerbos Grassland x Gnidia sericocephala Grassland x Grewia flava Velvet Raisin Grassland x x Helichrysum dasmallum Grassland and bushveld, usually on rocky ridges (Often x dolomite slopes) Helichrysum rugulosum Grassland, in dense groups x Hemizygia pretoriae Dwarf Sage Bush Grassland x x Hermannia boraginifolia Gombossie Bushveld x x Hermannia depressa Creeping Hermannia Grassland, in trampled areas x Hermannia transvaalensis Grassland x Hypoxis hemerocallidea Star Flower Grassland x (D) Hypoxis iridifolia Grassland x Hypoxis rigidula Kaffirtulp Grassland x x Indigofera daleoides Grassland and disturbed places x x Indigofera melanadenia Common on rocky slopes in grassland x Ipomoea bathycolpos Veldsambreeltjies Grassland x Ipomoea ommaneyi Beespatat Grassland, mainly on rocky slopes, x Kalanchoe paniculata Krimpsiektebossie Grassland on rocky ridges x Kalanchoe thyrsiflora White Lady Rocky outcrops in grassland and bushveld x Kohautia amatymbica Grassland and bushveld x Lannea edulis Wild Grape Bushveld x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Ledebouria ovatiflora Grassland x Ledebouria revoluta Grassland x Lotononis calycina var Grassland on rocky ridges. x x hirsutissima Ornithogalum vulgare Grassland, Gauteng x Ornithogalum tenuifolium Bosui Grassland x Oxygonium dregeanum Starstalk Grassland, often rocky an disturbed places x 1 Pentanissia angustifolia Grassland x Pearsonia cajanifolia Grassland, often on steep rocky ground x Pelargonium luridum Grassland, often in moist places. x x Pellaea calomelanos (P) Hard Fern Grassland. x Schistostephium heptalobum Grassland, particularly rocky areas x Selago densiflora Grassland and bushveld x x Senecio coronatus Sybossie Grassland x Senecis oxyrifolis False nasturtium Grassland, mainly among rocks x Sphenostylis angustifolia Wild sweetpea Grassland, particularly rocky places x Tylosema fassoglense Gemsbok Bean Grassland, often on dolomite x x Vernonia galpinii Grassland, usually rocky places x Vernonia oligocephala Bitterbossie Bushveld, often weed in disturbed places Vernonia sutherlandii Grassland, rocky ridges x Xerophyta retinervis Monkey’s tail Rocky ridges x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Total number of forbs identified = 76 59 25

TREES Celtis africana Stinkwood Wooded areas or bush clumps, usually on dolomite x x Cussonia paniculata* Highveld Cabbage Tree Grassland and rocky ridges x Diospyros lycioides subsp Bluebush Wide variety of habitats x x sericea Dombeya rotundifolia Common Wild Pear Bushveld, rocky outcrops x Euclea crispa Blue Guarri Rocky slopes, kloofs, along rivers and forest margins x x Gymnosporia heterophylla Common Spike-thorn Often a pioneer in disturbed places, along forest fringes x x and a wide range of habitats Mundulea sericea Cork Bush Grassland and bushveld, usually associated with rocky x outcrops Searsia (Rhus) lancea Karee Grassland and bushveld x x Searsia pyroides (Rhus Common wild currant Grassland, common in disturbed places x x pyroides) Searsia rigida Kliptaaibos Often growing between rocks. x Vangueria infausta Wild Medlar Mainly on rocky hillsides. x x Zanthoxylum capense Small Knobwood Rocky ridges, usually among other woody species x Total number of indigenous trees identified = 12 12 7

INVADERS Opuntia stricta Australian Pest Pear x

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Specie name Common Name Relevant Notes Rocky Grazed Grassland Grassland (southern portion of site) Total number of weeds identified = 1 0 1

Total species per vegetation community: 72 34

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APPENDIX C: Bird species that could potentially occur on the study site based on records from the South African Bird Atlas Project 1&2 and a habitat assessment conducted during the survey. (Conservation Status: CR – Critically Endangered, E – Endangered, VU – Vulnerable, NT – Near Threatened, LC – Least Concern; Probability of Occurrence: L – Low, M – Medium, H - High).

Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 1 Struthio camelus Common Ostrich LC L 4 Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe LC L 6 Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe LC L 47 Phalacrocorax carbo White-breasted Cormorant LC L 50 Phalacrocorax africanus Reed Cormorant LC L 52 Anhinga rufa African Darter LC L 54 Ardea cinerea Grey Heron LC L 55 Ardea melanocephala Black-headed Heron LC L 56 Ardea goliath Goliath Heron LC L 57 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron LC L 58 Egretta alba Great Egret LC L 59 Egretta garzetta Little Egret LC L 60 Egretta intermedia Yellow-billed Egret LC L 61 Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret LC H 62 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron LC L 63 Butorides striata Green-backed Heron LC L 64 Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron LC L 66 Ixobrychus sturmii Dwarf Bittern LC L 67 Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern LC L 69 Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-Heron LC L

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 72 Scopus umbretta Hamerkop LC L 74 Anastomus lamelligerus African Openbill LC L 76 Mycteria ibis Yellow-billed Stork NT L 78 Ciconia abdimii Abdim's Stork LC L 79 Ciconia ciconia White Stork LC L 80 Ciconia nigra Black Stork NT L 81 Threskiornis aethiopicus African Sacred Ibis LC L 82 Geronticus calvus Southern Bald Ibis LC L 83 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis LC L 84 Bostrychia hagedash Hadeda Ibis LC M 85 Platalea alba African Spoonbill LC L 88 Plectropterus gambensis Spur-winged Goose LC L 89 Alopochen aegyptiacus Egyptian Goose LC L 90 Tadorna cana South African Shelduck LC L 91 Sarkidiornis melanotos Comb Duck LC L 94 Anas smithii Cape Shoveler LC L 95 Anas sparsa African Black Duck LC L 96 Anas undulata Yellow-billed Duck LC L 97 Anas erythrorhyncha Red-billed Teal LC L 98 Anas capensis Cape Teal LC L 99 Anas hottentota Hottentot Teal LC L 100 Dendrocygna viduata White-faced Duck LC L 101 Dendrocygna bicolor Fulvous Duck LC L

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 102 Netta erythrophthalma Southern Pochard LC L 104 Thalassornis leuconotus White-backed Duck LC L 110 Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture VU M 113 Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon LC M 114 Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon NT H 115 Falco subbuteo Eurasian Hobby LC M 119 Falco amurensis Amur Falcon LC H 122 Falco rupicoloides Greater Kestrel LC H 123 Falco rupicolus Rock Kestrel LC H 125 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel VU H 128 Milvus migrans Black Kite LC M 129 Milvus aegyptius Yellow-billed Kite LC H 130 Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite LC H 132 Pernis apivorus European Honey-Buzzard LC L 133 Aquila verreauxii Verreaux's Eagle LC L 135 Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle VU L 138 Lophaetus occipitalis Long-crested Eagle LC M 144 Kaupifalco monogrammicus Lizard Buzzard LC M 145 Circaetus cinereus Brown Snake-Eagle LC M 149 Haliaeetus vocifer African Fish-Eagle LC L 152 Buteo rufofuscus Jackal Buzzard LC M 154 Buteo vulpinus Steppe Buzzard LC H 157 Accipiter ovampensis Ovambo Sparrowhawk LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 158 Accipiter minullus Little Sparrowhawk LC M 159 Accipiter melanoleucus Black Sparrowhawk LC L 160 Accipiter tachiro African Goshawk LC L 161 Accipiter badius Shikra LC L 162 Melierax gabar Gabar Goshawk LC L 165 Circus ranivorous African Marsh-harrier VU L 171 Polyboroides typus African Harrier-Hawk LC L 173 Peliperdix coqui Coqui Francolin LC H 174 Dendroperdix sephaena Crested Francolin LC H 178 Scleroptila levaillantii Red-winged Francolin LC H 179 Scleroptila levaillantoides Orange River Francolin LC H 183 Pternistis natalensis Natal Spurfowl LC M 185 Pternistis swainsonii Swainson's Spurfowl LC H 189 Coturnix coturnix Common Quail LC H 192 Numida meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl LC H 196 Turnix sylvaticus Kurrichane Buttonquail LC M 197 Rallus caerulescens African Rail LC L 203 Amaurornis flavirostris Black Crake LC L 205 Sarothrura rufa Red-chested Flufftail LC L 208 Porphyrio madagascariensis African Purple Swamphen LC L 210 Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen LC L 212 Fulica cristata Red-knobbed Coot LC L 214 Balearica regulorum Grey Crowned Crane LC L

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 216 Anthropoides paradiseus Blue Crane VU L 228 Actophilornis africanus African Jacana LC L 230 Eupodotis barrowii White-bellied Korhaan VU H 238 Charadrius tricollaris Three-banded Plover LC L 239 Afrotis afraoides Northern Black Korhaan LC H 242 Vanellus coronatus Crowned Lapwing LC H 245 Vanellus armatus Blacksmith Lapwing LC M 247 Vanellus senegallus African Wattled Lapwing LC L 250 Gallinago nigripennis African Snipe LC L 251 Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper LC L 256 Philomachus pugnax Ruff LC L 258 Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper LC L 262 Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper LC L 263 Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank LC L 264 Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper LC L 269 Recurvirostra avosetta Pied Avocet LC L 270 Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt LC L 275 Burhinus capensis Spotted Thick-knee LC M 277 Cursorius temminckii Temminck's Courser LC L 288 Larus cirrocephalus Grey-headed Gull LC L 311 Columba guinea Speckled Pigeon LC L 312 Columba arquatrix African Olive-Pigeon LC L 314 Streptopelia semitorquata Red-eyed Dove LC H

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 316 Streptopelia capicola Cape Turtle-Dove LC H 318 Oena capensis Namaqua Dove LC M 323 Treron calvus African Green-Pigeon LC L 339 Corythaixoides concolor Grey Go-away-bird LC H 340 Cuculus canorus Common Cuckoo LC M 343 Cuculus solitarius Red-chested Cuckoo LC M 344 Cuculus clamosus Black Cuckoo LC L 347 Clamator levaillantii Levaillant's Cuckoo LC L 348 Clamator jacobinus Jacobin Cuckoo LC L 351 Chrysococcyx klaas Klaas's Cuckoo LC L 352 Chrysococcyx caprius Diderick Cuckoo LC H 359 Tyto alba Barn Owl LC H 360 Tyto capensis African Grass-Owl VU L 361 Asio capensis Marsh Owl LC L 364 Ptilopsus granti Southern White-faced Scops-Owl LC L 365 Glaucidium perlatum Pearl-spotted Owlet LC L 368 Bubo africanus Spotted Eagle-Owl LC H 373 Caprimulgus pectoralis Fiery-necked Nightjar LC M 378 Apus apus Common Swift LC H 380 Apus barbatus African Black Swift LC H 383 Apus caffer White-rumped Swift LC M 384 Apus horus Horus Swift LC M 385 Apus affinis Little Swift LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 386 Tachymarptis melba Alpine Swift LC M 387 Cypsiurus parvus African Palm-Swift LC M 390 Colius striatus Speckled Mousebird LC H 391 Centropus burchelli Burchell's Coucal LC L 392 Urocolius indicus Red-faced Mousebird LC M 394 Ceryle rudis Pied Kingfisher LC L 395 Megaceryle maximus Giant Kingfisher LC L 396 Alcedo semitorquata Half-collared Kingfisher NT L 397 Alcedo cristata Malachite Kingfisher LC L 399 Halcyon senegalensis Woodland Kingfisher LC L 402 Halcyon albiventris Brown-hooded Kingfisher LC M 404 Merops apiaster European Bee-eater LC M 409 Merops bullockoides White-fronted Bee-eater LC M 410 Merops pusillus Little Bee-eater LC M 411 Merops hirundineus Swallow-tailed Bee-eater LC L 418 Upupa africana African Hoopoe LC M 419 Phoeniculus purpureus Green Wood-Hoopoe LC M 424 Tockus nasutus African Grey Hornbill LC H 431 Lybius torquatus Black-collared Barbet LC M 432 Tricholaema leucomelas Acacia Pied Barbet LC M 437 Pogoniulus chrysoconus Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird LC M 439 Trachyphonus vaillantii Crested Barbet LC H 440 Indicator indicator Greater Honeyguide LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 442 Indicator minor Lesser Honeyguide LC L 443 Prodotiscus regulus Brown-backed Honeybird LC L 447 Campethera abingoni Golden-tailed Woodpecker LC L 450 Dendropicos fuscescens Cardinal Woodpecker LC M 451 Dendropicos namaquus Bearded Woodpecker LC M 453 Jynx ruficollis Red-throated Wryneck LC M 456 Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark NT H 458 Mirafra africana Rufous-naped Lark LC H 460 Calendulauda sabota Sabota Lark LC M 474 Chersomanes albofasciata Spike-heeled Lark LC M 488 Calandrella cinerea Red-capped Lark LC M 493 Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow LC H 495 Hirundo albigularis White-throated Swallow LC M 498 Hirundo dimidiata Pearl-breasted Swallow LC M 501 Hirundo semirufa Red-breasted Swallow LC M 502 Hirundo cucullata Greater Striped Swallow LC H 503 Hirundo abyssinica Lesser Striped Swallow LC H 504 Hirundo spilodera South African Cliff-Swallow LC M 506 Hirundo fuligula Rock Martin LC M 507 Delichon urbicum Common House-Martin LC H 509 Riparia paludicola Brown-throated Martin LC H 510 Riparia cincta Banded Martin LC H 513 Campephaga flava Black Cuckoo-shrike LC L

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 517 Dicrurus adsimilis Fork-tailed Drongo LC H 519 Oriolus oriolus Eurasian Golden Oriole LC M 521 Oriolus larvatus Black-headed Oriole LC M 522 Corvus albus Pied Crow LC H 523 Corvus capensis Cape Crow LC H 527 Parus niger Southern Black Tit LC H 533 Turdoides jardineii Arrow-marked Babbler LC H 545 Pycnonotus tricolor Dark-capped Bulbul LC H 552 Turdus libonyanus Kurrichane Thrush LC M 557 Psophocichla litsipsirupa Groundscraper Thrush LC M 561 Monticola brevipes Short-toed Rock-Thrush LC L 564 Oenanthe monticola Mountain Wheatear LC H 568 Oenanthe pileata Capped Wheatear LC H 570 Cercomela familiaris Familiar Chat LC M 573 Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris Mocking Cliff-Chat LC L 576 Saxicola torquatus African Stonechat LC H 581 Cossypha caffra Cape Robin-Chat LC M 582 Cossypha humeralis White-throated Robin-Chat LC M 588 Cercotrichas leucophrys White-browed Scrub-Robin LC H 594 Sylvia communis Common Whitethroat LC M 595 Sylvia borin Garden Warbler LC M 596 Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler LC L 599 Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler LC L

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 601 Eremomela usticollis Burnt-necked Eremomela LC L 603 Acrocephalus arundinaceus Great Reed-Warbler LC L 604 Acrocephalus gracilirostris Lesser Swamp-Warbler LC L 606 Acrocephalus baeticatus African Reed-Warbler LC L 607 Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler LC L 609 Bradypterus baboecala Little Rush-Warbler LC L 614 Calamonastes fasciolatus Barred Wren-Warbler LC L 618 Sphenoeacus afer Cape Grassbird LC L 621 Sylvietta rufescens Long-billed Crombec LC M 622 Apalis thoracica Bar-throated Apalis LC H 628 Camaroptera brevicaudata Grey-backed Camaroptera LC H 629 Cisticola juncidis Zitting Cisticola LC H 630 Cisticola aridulus Desert Cisticola LC H 631 Cisticola textrix Cloud Cisticola LC H 634 Cisticola ayresii Wing-snapping Cisticola LC H 637 Cisticola fulvicapilla Neddicky LC H 639 Cisticola lais Wailing Cisticola LC H 642 Cisticola chiniana Rattling Cisticola LC H 646 Cisticola tinniens Levaillant's Cisticola LC H 648 Cisticola aberrans Lazy Cisticola LC H 649 Prinia subflava Tawny-flanked Prinia LC H 650 Prinia flavicans Black-chested Prinia LC M 654 Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 657 Myioparus plumbeus Grey Tit-Flycatcher LC M 658 Parisoma subcaeruleum Chestnut-vented Tit-Babbler LC M 664 Melaenornis pammelaina Southern Black Flycatcher LC M 665 Sigelus silens Fiscal Flycatcher LC H 666 Chloropeta natalensis Dark-capped Yellow Warbler LC L 673 Batis molitor Chinspot Batis LC M 678 Stenostira scita Fairy Flycatcher LC L 682 Terpsiphone viridis African Paradise-Flycatcher LC L 686 Motacilla capensis Cape Wagtail LC M 692 Anthus cinnamomeus African Pipit LC H 693 Anthus similis Long-billed Pipit LC L 694 Anthus leucophrys Plain-backed Pipit LC L 695 Anthus vaalensis Buffy Pipit LC L 696 Anthus lineiventris Striped Pipit LC L 703 Macronyx capensis Cape Longclaw LC H 706 Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike LC M 707 Lanius collaris Common Fiscal LC H 708 Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike LC L 709 Laniarius ferrugineus Southern Boubou LC M 711 Laniarius atrococcineus Crimson-breasted Shrike LC L 712 Dryoscopus cubla Black-backed Puffback LC M 714 Tchagra australis Brown-crowned Tchagra LC M 715 Tchagra senegalus Black-crowned Tchagra LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 719 Telophorus sulfureopectus Orange-breasted Bush-Shrike LC M 722 Telophorus zeylonus Bokmakierie LC M 723 Malaconotus blanchoti Grey-headed Bush-Shrike LC M 731 Nilaus afer Brubru LC M 734 Acridotheres tristis Common Myna LC H 735 Creatophora cinerea Wattled Starling LC M 736 Cinnyricinclus leucogaster Violet-backed Starling LC M 737 Lamprotornis nitens Cape Glossy Starling LC H 745 Onychognathus morio Red-winged Starling LC H 746 Spreo bicolor Pied Starling LC M 751 Nectarinia famosa Malachite Sunbird LC L 763 Cinnyris talatala White-bellied Sunbird LC M 772 Chalcomitra amethystina Amethyst Sunbird LC M 780 Plocepasser mahali White-browed Sparrow-Weaver LC M 784 Passer domesticus House Sparrow LC H 786 Passer melanurus Cape Sparrow LC H 788 Petronia superciliaris Yellow-throated Petronia LC M 789 Sporopipes squamifrons Scaly-feathered Finch LC M 792 Ploceus intermedius Lesser Masked-Weaver LC H 796 Zosterops virens Cape White-eye LC H 797 Ploceus cucullatus Village Weaver LC H 799 Ploceus capensis Cape Weaver LC H 803 Ploceus velatus Southern Masked-Weaver LC H

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 804 Amblyospiza albifrons Thick-billed Weaver LC M 804 Passer diffusus Southern Grey-headed Sparrow LC H 805 Quelea quelea Red-billed Quelea LC H 808 Euplectes orix Southern Red Bishop LC M 812 Euplectes afer Yellow-crowned Bishop LC M 813 Euplectes ardens Red-collared Widowbird LC M 814 Euplectes albonotatus White-winged Widowbird LC M 818 Euplectes progne Long-tailed Widowbird LC M 820 Amadina erythrocephala Red-headed Finch LC M 821 Amadina fasciata Cut-throat Finch LC M 823 Spermestes cucullatus Bronze Mannikin LC H 833 Lagonosticta rubricata African Firefinch LC M 835 Lagonosticta rhodopareia Jameson's Firefinch LC M 838 Amandava subflava Orange-breasted Waxbill LC L 839 Uraeginthus angolensis Blue Waxbill LC H 843 Estrilda astrild Common Waxbill LC H 844 Ortygospiza atricollis African Quailfinch LC H 846 Vidua macroura Pin-tailed Whydah LC H 850 Vidua purpurascens Purple Indigobird LC M 854 Anomalospiza imberbis Cuckoo Finch LC M 859 Crithagra mozambicus Yellow-fronted Canary LC H 860 Crithagra atrogularis Black-throated Canary LC M 867 Crithagra gularis Streaky-headed Seedeater LC M

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Reference Number Scientific Name Common Name Status Probability of Occurrence 872 Emberiza tahapisi Cinnamon-breasted Bunting LC M 873 Emberiza capensis Cape Bunting LC M 874 Emberiza flaviventris Golden-breasted Bunting LC M 932 Larus pipixcan Franklin's Gull LC L 940 Columba livia Rock Dove LC L 941 Psittacula krameri Rose-ringed Parakeet LC L 1016 Anas platyrhynchos Mallard LC L 1021 Pavo cristatus Common Peacock LC L 1104 Turdus smithi Karoo Thrush LC H 1183 Mirafra fasciolata Eastern Clapper Lark LC L

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APPENDIX D: Mammal species that could potentially occur on the study site based on the Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa (Friedmann & Daly 2004) and a habitat assessment conducted during the survey. (Conservation Status: CR – Critically Endangered, E – Endangered, VU – Vulnerable, NT – Near Threatened, LC – Least Concern; Probability of Occurrence: M – Medium, H - High). Mammal species having a low probability of occurrence within the study area have been omitted.

Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat Probability of Occurrence MACROSCELIDEA

Elephantulus brachyrhynchus Short-snouted Elephant-shrew Data deficient Savanna, Shrubland, Grassland M

Elephantulus myurus Rock Elephant-shrew Least concern Savanna, Shrubland, Grassland M

LAGAMORPHA

Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare Least Concern Savanna, grassland, desert H

Pronolagus randensis Jameson's Red Rock Rabbit Least Concern Rocky Highveld Grassland M

INSECTIVORA

Atelerix frontalis South African Hedgehog Near-Threatened Dry habitats with sufficient ground cover for M nesting Crocidura cyanea Reddish-grey Musk Shrew Data Deficient All latitudes, broad habitat tolerance H

Crocidura hirta Lesser Red Musk Shrew Data Deficient All latitudes, broad habitat tolerance H

Crocidura silacea Lesser Grey-brown Musk Data Deficient Woodland, coastal forest, grassland and rocky M Shrew areas within savanna biome RODENTIA

Acomys spinosissimus Spiny Mouse Least Concern Dry woodland and rocky sites H

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Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat Probability of Occurrence Aethomys ineptus Tete Veld Rat Least Concern Grassland, temperate savanna H

Aethomys namaquensis Namaqua Rock Mouse Least Concern Grassland, temperate savanna H

Cryptomys hottentotus Common Mole-rat Least Concern Wide variety H

Graphiurus platyops Rock Dormouse Data deficient Temperate, rocky terrain H

Hystrix africaeaustralis Porcupine Least Concern Arable Land, Rural Gardens, Savanna, Temperate H Grassland, Desert Mastomys coucha Multimammate Mouse Least Concern Wide variety H

Mus indutus Desert Pygmy Mouse Least Concern Arid scrub savanna and woodland, wide tolerance H

Pedetes capensis Springhare Least Concern Savanna, Desert, Grassland H

Rhabdomys pumilio Striped Mouse Least Concern Temperate grassland with good cover H

Saccostomus campestris Pouched Mouse Least Concern Savanna, Shrubland, Grassland H

Steatomys krebsii Krebs' Fat Mouse Least Concern Wide variety H

PRIMATA

Papio ursus Chacma Baboon Savannas and grasslands M

CARNIVORA

Canis mesomelas Black-backed Jackal Least Concern Broad habitat tolerance H

Caracal caracal Caracal Least Concern Savanna, grasslands and shrublands M

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Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat Probability of Occurrence Felis nigripes Black-footed Cat Least Concern Savanna, grasslands, shrublands and deserts M

Felis silvestris African Wild Cat Least Concern Savanna, grasslands shrublands and deserts H

Galerella sanguinea Slender Mongoose Least Concern Savanna, grassland, desert, urban areas M

Genetta genetta Small-spotted Genet Least Concern Savanna, shrubland, desert, rural gardens, urban H areas Hyaena brunnea Brown Hyaena Near Threatened Savanna, shrubland, grassland, urban areas M

Ichneumia albicauda White-tailed Mongoose Least Concern Savanna, Grasslands, Urban areas, rural gardens M

Poecilogale albinucha African Weasel Data Deficient Grassland, savanna, shrubland M

Suricata`suricatta Suricate Least Concern Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert H

Vulpes chama Cape Fox Least Concern Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert, arable M land ARTIOTACTYLA

Raphicerus campestris Steenbok Least Concern Savanna, shrubland, grassland, desert H

Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker Least Concern Broad habitat tolerance H

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Appendix E. Reptiles species that could potentially occur on the study site (information from South African Reptile Conservation Assessment, 2009).

Family Genus Species Conservation Common Probability Status Name of Occurrence Agamidae Agama aculeata Not Evaluated Distant's H Ground Agama Agamidae Agama atra Not Evaluated Southern H Rock Agama Atractaspididae Amblyodipsas polylepis Not Evaluated Common M Purple- glossed Snake Atractaspididae Aparallactus capensis Not Evaluated Black- H headed Centipede- eater Atractaspididae Atractaspis bibronii Not Evaluated Bibron's M Stiletto Snake Atractaspididae Atractaspis duerdeni Not Evaluated Duerden's M Stiletto Snake Atractaspididae Homoroselaps dorsalis Near Striped H Threatened Harlequin Snake Atractaspididae Homoroselaps lacteus Not Evaluated Spotted H Harlequin Snake Boidae Python natalensis Not Evaluated Southern H African Python Chamaeleonidae Chamaeleo dilepis Not Evaluated Common H Flap-neck Chameleon Colubridae Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Not Evaluated Red-lipped H Snake Colubridae Dasypeltis scabra Not Evaluated Rhombic H Egg-eater Colubridae Dispholidus typus Not Evaluated Boomslang L Colubridae Duberria lutrix Not Evaluated South M African Slug- eater Colubridae Lamprophis aurora Not Evaluated Aurora H House Snake Colubridae Lamprophis capensis Not Evaluated Brown H House Snake Colubridae Lamprophis inornatus Not Evaluated Olive House H Snake

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Probability Status Name of Occurrence Colubridae Lycodonomorphus rufulus Not Evaluated Brown L Water Snake Colubridae Lycophidion capense Not Evaluated Cape Wolf M Snake Colubridae Mehelya capensis Not Evaluated Common H File Snake Colubridae Philothamnus hoplogaster Not Evaluated South L Eastern Green Snake Colubridae Philothamnus natalensis Not Evaluated Western L Natal Green Snake Colubridae Philothamnus semivariegatus Not Evaluated Spotted M Bush Snake Colubridae Prosymna sundevallii Not Evaluated Sundevall's M Shovel- snout Colubridae Psammophis brevirostris Not Evaluated Short- M snouted Grass Snake Colubridae Psammophis crucifer Not Evaluated Cross- L marked Grass Snake Colubridae Psammophis trinasalis Not Evaluated Fork-marked L Sand Snake Colubridae Psammophylax rhombeatus Not Evaluated Spotted M Grass Snake Colubridae Psammophylax tritaeniatus Not Evaluated Striped M Grass Snake Colubridae Pseudaspis cana Not Evaluated Mole Snake H Colubridae Telescopus semiannulatus Not Evaluated Eastern L Tiger Snake Colubridae Thelotornis capensis Not Evaluated Southern M Twig Snake Cordylidae Chamaesaura aenea Not Evaluated Coppery H Grass Lizard Cordylidae Chamaesaura anguina Not Evaluated Cape Grass H Lizard Cordylidae Cordylus jonesii Not Evaluated Jones' M Girdled Lizard Cordylidae Cordylus vittifer Not Evaluated Common H Girdled Lizard

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Probability Status Name of Occurrence Elapidae Elapsoidea sundevallii Not listed Highveld M Garter Snake Elapidae Hemachatus haemachatus Not Evaluated Rinkhals H Elapidae Naja annulifera Not Evaluated Snouted M Cobra Elapidae Naja mossambica Not Evaluated Mozambique M Spitting Cobra Gekkonidae Chondrodactylus turneri Not Evaluated Turner's M Gecko Gekkonidae Hemidactylus mabouia Not Evaluated Common M Tropical House Gecko Gekkonidae Lygodactylus capensis Not Evaluated Common H Dwarf Gecko Gekkonidae Lygodactylus ocellatus Not listed Spotted M Dwarf Gecko Gekkonidae Pachydactylus affinis Not Evaluated Transvaal M Gecko Gekkonidae Pachydactylus capensis Not Evaluated Cape Gecko H Gerrhosauridae Gerrhosaurus flavigularis Not Evaluated Yellow- M throated Plated Lizard Lacertidae Nucras intertexta Not Evaluated Spotted M Sandveld Lizard Lacertidae Nucras ornata Not Evaluated Ornate M Sandveld Lizard Lacertidae Pedioplanis lineoocellata Not Evaluated Spotted M Sand Lizard Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops distanti Not Evaluated Distant's M Thread Snake Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops incognitus Not Evaluated Incognito M Thread Snake Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops scutifrons Not listed Eastern M Cape Thread Snake Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops scutifrons Not listed Peters' M Thread Snake Pelomedusidae Pelomedusa subrufa Not Evaluated Marsh L

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Probability Status Name of Occurrence Terrapin Scincidae Acontias occidentalis Not Evaluated Western M Legless Skink Scincidae Afroblepharus walbergii Not Evaluated Wahlberg's M Snake-eyed Skink Scincidae Mochlus sundevallii Not Evaluated Sundevall's M Writhing Skink Scincidae Trachylepis capensis Not Evaluated Cape Skink H Scincidae Trachylepis punctatissima Not Evaluated Speckled H Rock Skink Scincidae Trachylepis varia Not Evaluated Variable M Skink Testudinidae Kinixys lobatsiana Not Evaluated Lobatse M Hinged Tortoise Testudinidae Kinixys spekii Not Evaluated Speke's M Hinged Tortoise Typhlopidae Afrotyphlops bibronii Not Evaluated Bibron's M Blind Snake Typhlopidae Rhinotyphlops lalandei Not Evaluated Delalande's M Beaked Blind Snake Varanidae Varanus albigularis Not Evaluated Rock H Monitor Varanidae Varanus niloticus Not Evaluated Water L Monitor Viperidae Bitis arietans Not Evaluated Puff Adder H Viperidae Bitis caudalis Not Evaluated Horned M Adder Viperidae Causus rhombeatus Not Evaluated Rhombic H Night Adder

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Appendix F: Butterfly species that could potentially occur on the study site (information from the South African Butterfly Conservation Assessment and Henning et al. 2009).

Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status HESPERIIDAE Abantis tettensis Least Concern Spottet velvet skipper HESPERIIDAE Coeliades forestan Least Concern Striped policeman HESPERIIDAE Coeliades pisistratus Least Concern Two-pip policeman HESPERIIDAE Eretis djaelaelae Least Concern Marbled elf HESPERIIDAE Eretis umbra Least Concern Small marbled elf HESPERIIDAE Gegenes hottentota Least Concern Marsh hottentot skipper HESPERIIDAE Gegenes niso Least Concern Common hottentot HESPERIIDAE Gegenes pumilio Least Concern Dark hottentot HESPERIIDAE Kedestes barberae Least Concern Barber's ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes callicles Least Concern Pale ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes lepenula Least Concern Chequered ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes macomo Least Concern Macomo ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes michaeli Not listed Michael's ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes nerva Least Concern Scarce ranger HESPERIIDAE Kedestes wallengrenii Least Concern Wallengren's ranger HESPERIIDAE Leucochitonea levubu Least Concern White-cloaked skipper HESPERIIDAE Metisella meninx Vulnerable Marsh sylph HESPERIIDAE Metisella willemi Least Concern Netted sylph HESPERIIDAE Netrobalane canopus Least Concern Buff-tipped skipper HESPERIIDAE Parosmodes morantii Least Concern Morant's orange HESPERIIDAE Pelopidas mathias Least Concern Black-banded swift HESPERIIDAE Pelopidas thrax Least Concern White-banded swift HESPERIIDAE Platylesches ayresii Least Concern Peppered hopper HESPERIIDAE Platylesches dolomitica Vulnerable Hilltop hopper HESPERIIDAE Platylesches moritili Least Concern Honey hopper HESPERIIDAE Platylesches neba Least Concern Flower-girl hopper HESPERIIDAE Sarangesa seineri Least Concern Dark elfin HESPERIIDAE Spialia agylla Least Concern Grassveld sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia asterodia Least Concern Star sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia colotes Least Concern Bushveld sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia delagoae Least Concern Delagoa sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia diomus Least Concern Common sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia dromus Least Concern Forest sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia mafa Least Concern Mafa sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia paula Not Evaluated Mite sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia sataspes Not listed Boland sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia secessus Least Concern Wolkberg sandman HESPERIIDAE Spialia spio Least Concern Mountain sandman HESPERIIDAE Tsitana tsita Least Concern Dismal sylph

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status LYCAENIDAE Actizera lucida Least Concern Rayed blue LYCAENIDAE Alaena amazoula Least Concern Yellow zulu LYCAENIDAE Alaena amazoula Least Concern Yellow zulu LYCAENIDAE Aloeides aranda Least Concern Aranda copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides damarensis Least Concern Damara copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides damarensis Least Concern Damara copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides dentatis Least Concern Roodepoort copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides henningi Least Concern Henning's copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides molomo Not listed Molomo copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides molomo Least Concern Molomo copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides plowesi Not listed Plowes' copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides taikosama Least Concern Dusky copper LYCAENIDAE Aloeides trimeni Least Concern Trimen's copper LYCAENIDAE Anthene amarah Least Concern Black striped hairtail LYCAENIDAE Anthene butleri Least Concern Pale hairtail LYCAENIDAE Anthene definita Least Concern Common hairtail LYCAENIDAE Anthene otacilia Least Concern Otacilia hairtail LYCAENIDAE Aphnaeus hutchinsonii Least Concern Hutchinson's highflier LYCAENIDAE Argyraspodes argyraspis Least Concern Warrior silver-spotted copper LYCAENIDAE Axiocerses amanga Least Concern Bush scarlet LYCAENIDAE Axiocerses croesus Least Concern Dark-banded scarlet LYCAENIDAE Axiocerses tjoane Least Concern Eastern scarlet LYCAENIDAE Azanus jesous Least Concern Topaz babul blue LYCAENIDAE Azanus moriqua Least Concern Black-bordered babul blue LYCAENIDAE Azanus ubaldus Least Concern Velvet-spotted babul blue LYCAENIDAE Brephidium metophis Least Concern Tinktinkie blue LYCAENIDAE Cacyreus fracta Least Concern Water geranium bronze LYCAENIDAE Cacyreus lingeus Least Concern Bush bronze LYCAENIDAE Cacyreus marshalli Least Concern Common geranium bronze LYCAENIDAE Cacyreus virilis Least Concern Mocker bronze LYCAENIDAE Capys disjunctus Least Concern Russet protea LYCAENIDAE Chilades trochylus Least Concern Grass jewel LYCAENIDAE Cigaritis ella Least Concern Ella's bar LYCAENIDAE Cigaritis mozambica Least Concern Mozambique bar LYCAENIDAE Cigaritis natalensis Least Concern Natal bar LYCAENIDAE Crudaria capensis Least Concern Cape grey LYCAENIDAE Crudaria leroma Least Concern Silver spotted grey LYCAENIDAE Cupidopsis cissus Least Concern Common meadow blue LYCAENIDAE Cupidopsis jobates Least Concern Tailed meadow blue

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status LYCAENIDAE Deudorix antalus Least Concern Brown playboy LYCAENIDAE Deudorix dinochares Least Concern Apricot playboy LYCAENIDAE Deudorix dinomenes Least Concern Orange playboy LYCAENIDAE Eicochrysops messapus Least Concern Cupreous blue LYCAENIDAE Euchrysops dolorosa Least Concern Sabie smoky blue LYCAENIDAE Euchrysops malathana Least Concern Common smoky blue LYCAENIDAE Euchrysops osiris Least Concern Oriris smoky blue LYCAENIDAE Euchrysops subpallida Least Concern Ashen smoky blue LYCAENIDAE Iolaus alienus Least Concern Brown-line sapphire LYCAENIDAE Iolaus mimosae Least Concern Mimosa sapphire LYCAENIDAE Iolaus mimosae Least Concern Mimosa sapphire LYCAENIDAE Iolaus pallene Least Concern Saffron sapphire LYCAENIDAE Iolaus trimeni Least Concern Trimen's sapphire LYCAENIDAE Lachnocnema bibulus Least Concern Common woolly legs LYCAENIDAE Lachnocnema durbani Least Concern D'Urban's woolly legs LYCAENIDAE Lachnocnema laches Least Concern Sothern pied woolly legs LYCAENIDAE Lampides boeticus Least Concern Pea blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops glauca Least Concern Silvery blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops ignota Least Concern Zulu blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops letsea Least Concern Free State blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops patricia Least Concern Patricia blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops plebeia Least Concern Twin-spot blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops procera Least Concern Potchefstroom blue LYCAENIDAE Lepidochrysops variabilis Least Concern Variable blue LYCAENIDAE Leptomyrina gorgias Least Concern Common black-eye LYCAENIDAE Leptomyrina henningi Least Concern Henning's black-eye LYCAENIDAE Leptotes pirithous Least Concern Common zebra blue LYCAENIDAE Leptotes pulcher Least Concern Sesbania blue LYCAENIDAE Lycaena clarki Least Concern Eastern sorrel copper LYCAENIDAE Myrina silenus Least Concern Common fig tree blue LYCAENIDAE Oraidium barberae Least Concern Dwarf blue LYCAENIDAE Pseudonacaduba sichela Least Concern Dusky line blue LYCAENIDAE Spalgis lemolea Not listed African apefly LYCAENIDAE Stugeta bowkeri Least Concern Bowker's marbled sapphire LYCAENIDAE Stugeta bowkeri Least Concern Bowker's marbled sapphire LYCAENIDAE Stugeta bowkeri Least Concern Bowker's marbled sapphire LYCAENIDAE Tarucus sybaris Least Concern Dotted blue LYCAENIDAE Thestor basutus Least Concern Basuto skolly LYCAENIDAE Thestor basutus Least Concern Basuto skolly LYCAENIDAE Tuxentius calice Least Concern White pie LYCAENIDAE Uranothauma nubifer Least Concern Black heart

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status LYCAENIDAE Zintha hintza Least Concern Hintza pierrot LYCAENIDAE Zizeeria knysna Least Concern African grass blue LYCAENIDAE Zizula hylax Least Concern Tiny grass blue NYMPHALIDAE Acraea acara Least Concern Acara acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea aglaonice Least Concern Clear-spotted acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea anemosa Least Concern Broad-bordered acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea axina Least Concern Little acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea barberi Least Concern Barber's acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea caldarena Least Concern Black-tipped acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea horta Least Concern Garden acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea lygus Least Concern Lygus acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea machequena Least Concern Machequena acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea natalica Least Concern Natal acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea neobule Least Concern Wandering donkey acraea NYMPHALIDAE Acraea oncaea Least Concern Window acraea NYMPHALIDAE Antanartia hippomene Least Concern Southern short-tailed admiral NYMPHALIDAE Bicyclus anynana Least Concern Squinting bush brown NYMPHALIDAE Byblia anvatara Least Concern Joker NYMPHALIDAE Byblia ilithyia Least Concern Spotted joker NYMPHALIDAE Catacroptera cloanthe Least Concern Pirate NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes brutus Least Concern White-barred charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes candiope Least Concern Green-veined charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes cithaeron Least Concern Blue-spotted charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes jahlusa Least Concern Pearl-spotted charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes jahlusa Least Concern Pearl-spotted charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes jasius Least Concern Foxy charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Charaxes vansoni Least Concern Van Son's charaxes NYMPHALIDAE Danaus chrysippus Least Concern African monarch, Plain tiger NYMPHALIDAE Hamanumida daedalus Least Concern Guinea-fowl butterfly NYMPHALIDAE Heteropsis perspicua Least Concern Eyed bush brown NYMPHALIDAE Hypolimnas misippus Least Concern Common diadem NYMPHALIDAE Junonia hierta Least Concern Yellow pansy NYMPHALIDAE Junonia oenone Least Concern Blue pansy NYMPHALIDAE Junonia orithya Least Concern Eyed pansy NYMPHALIDAE Junonia terea Least Concern Soldier pansy NYMPHALIDAE Melanitis leda Least Concern Twilight bown NYMPHALIDAE Neptis saclava Least Concern Spotted sailor

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status NYMPHALIDAE Pardopsis punctatissima Least Concern Polka dot NYMPHALIDAE Paternympha loxophthalma Least Concern Spotted-eye brown NYMPHALIDAE Paternympha narycia Least Concern Spotted-eye brown NYMPHALIDAE Phalanta phalantha Least Concern African leopard NYMPHALIDAE Physcaeneura panda Least Concern Dark-webbed ringlet NYMPHALIDAE Precis archesia Least Concern Garden commodore NYMPHALIDAE Precis ceryne Least Concern Marsh commodore NYMPHALIDAE Precis octavia Least Concern Gaudy Commodore NYMPHALIDAE Precis tugela Least Concern Dry-leaf or Eared commodore NYMPHALIDAE Stygionympha vansoni Least Concern Van Son's hillside brown NYMPHALIDAE Stygionympha wichgrafi Least Concern Wichgraf's hillside brown NYMPHALIDAE Telchinia burni Least Concern Pale-yellow acraea NYMPHALIDAE Telchinia rahira Least Concern Marsh acraea NYMPHALIDAE Telchinia serena Least Concern Dancing acraea NYMPHALIDAE Vanessa cardui Least Concern Painted lady PAPILIONIDAE Graphium angolanus Least Concern Angola white-lady swordtail PAPILIONIDAE Papilio demodocus Least Concern Citrus swallowtail PAPILIONIDAE Papilio nireus Least Concern Green-banded swallowtail PAPILIONIDAE Papilio ophidicephalus Least Concern Emperor swallowtail PIERIDAE Belenois aurota Least Concern Brown-veined white PIERIDAE Belenois creona Least Concern African common white PIERIDAE Belenois gidica Least Concern African veined white PIERIDAE Belenois zochalia Least Concern Forest white PIERIDAE Catopsilia florella Least Concern African migrant PIERIDAE Colias electo Least Concern African clouded yellow PIERIDAE Colotis agoye Least Concern Speckled sulphur tip PIERIDAE Colotis antevippe Least Concern Red tip PIERIDAE Colotis danae Least Concern Scarlet tip PIERIDAE Colotis eris Least Concern Banded gold tip PIERIDAE Colotis euippe Least Concern Smoky orange tip PIERIDAE Colotis evagore Least Concern Small orange tip PIERIDAE Colotis evenina Least Concern Orange tip PIERIDAE Colotis ione Least Concern Bushveld purple tip PIERIDAE Colotis pallene Least Concern Bushveld orange tip PIERIDAE Colotis subfasciatus Least Concern Lemon traveller PIERIDAE Colotis vesta Least Concern Veined tip PIERIDAE Eurema brigitta Least Concern Broad-bordered grass yellow PIERIDAE Eurema hecabe Least Concern Lowveld yellow

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Family Genus Species Conservation Common Name Status PIERIDAE Mylothris agathina Least Concern Common dotted border PIERIDAE Mylothris rueppellii Least Concern Twin dotted border PIERIDAE Pinacopteryx eriphia Least Concern Zebra white PIERIDAE Pontia helice Least Concern Common meadow white

Appendix G: Amphibian species that could potentially occur on the study site (information from Minter et al. 2004).

Name Scientific Name Status Probability of occurrence Common River Frog Amieta angolensis LC Low Cape River Frog Amieta fuscigula LC Low Guttural Toad Amietophrynus gutturalis LC Low Raucous Toad Amietophrynus rangeri LC Low Boettger’s Caco Cacosternum boettgeri LC Low Bubbling Kassina Kassina senegalensis LC Low Snoring Puddle Frog Phrynobatrachus natalensis LC Low Giant Bullfrog Pyxicephalus adspersus NT Low Red Toad Schismaderma carens LC Low Tremolo Sand Frog Tomopterna cryptotis LC Low Natal Sand Frog Tomopterna natalensis LC Low Common Platanna Xenopus laevis LC Low

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Appendix H: Specialist Curriculum Vitae

1. Antoinette Eyssell: Flora

2. Pieter Olivier: Fauna

3. Willem Lubbe: Wetland Opinion

4. Byron Grant: Project Manager

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: ANTOINETTE EYSSELL

Name of Firm: Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd Position: Terrestrial Ecologist Nationality: South African Languages: Afrikaans (mother tongue), English, basic Sepedi

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

B. Sc (Agriculture) Horticulture, University of Pretoria (1993-1996) B. Sc (Hons) Horticulture, University of Pretoria (1999-2000) M.Sc Environmental Science, University of Pretoria (2010)

OTHER RELEVANT QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Courses:

ISO 14000 (Advanced EMS Auditors Course), 2007; Introduction into Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC), 2007; Mentorship Training (SAMDI), 2007; S.E.E.D Permaculture training course, 2006; Project Management Course (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) Umgeni Valley), 2005; Grass and plant identification courses, 2004; Tsoga 1 (course in speaking Sepedi), 2004; and Certificate in Seed Science (University of Pretoria), 1999

Presentations:

Environmental Education, BGCI Conference, Oxford England – September 2006 Environmental Education in a changing world, World Environmental Education Conference (WEEC), Durban - July 2007

Publications:

Lotter, M., Aubrey, A., Dobson, L.., and Eyssell A., 2000. Plant collecting expedition on Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. Plantlife 23, September 2000.

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MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

South African Council for Natural Scientific Professionals (Candidate Natural Scientist in the field of Ecology)

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Terrestrial Ecologist: Strategic Environmental Focus (Current post since September 2007)

Compile proposals and tenders for terrestrial specialist studies. Study authority correspondence to gain an understanding of minimum requirements. Gather background information, including geographical information, for projects. Arrange logistic for site visits e.g. vehicles, accommodation and equipment. Conduct site visits to project locations and collect data. Identification of taxa. Data analysis and reporting of results. Liaise with SEF staff. Project management. Financial and time management (timesheets and invoice). Professional and personal development.

Recent Projects: 1. Biodiversity Assessment for Koornfontein mine, Mpumalanga; 2. Strategic Environmental Assessment for Eskom Electricity Master Plans, Thohoyandou, Limpopo 3. Vegetation Assessment for the Proposed Open Cast Mine, Elisras; 4. Alien Vegetation Identification and Removal Methodology: Boekenhoutskloof quarry; 5. Ecological Status Quo Report and Mitigation for a rectification in terms of Section 24G and 24F of NEMA (Lanseria Nursery, Gauteng); 6. Vegetation Assessment for Rangeview Ext 2 Status Quo Report and Mitigation for a rectification in terms of Section 24G and 24F of NEMA - Mogale City Local Municipality 7. Floral Assessment for the link road from Toekomsrust to Rietvlei, West Rand District Municipality (WRDM); 8. Vegetation Investigation for the Heroes Bridge Wetland Rehabilitation, Soweto; 9. Vegetation Assessment for the mixed-used development at Tatu, Kenya; and 10. Ecological Management Plans for Steyn City development, Johannesburg.

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Snr Environmental Education Officer: Environmental Education Centre, Pretoria National Botanical Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute (August 2003 – September 2007)

• Plan, Implement and facilitate the Outreach Greening Programme in Tshwane • Raise awareness on South African biodiversity in previously disadvantaged communities. • Develop resources and relevant teaching and learning support materials for the Outreach Greening Programme and for the mentorship of student-interns on the programme. • Network with authorities, partners, sponsors and funders of the programme. • Train, assist, manage and support student-interns. Manage the Outreach Greening Programme in an effective and accountable manner so as to ensure the sustainability of the various projects.

• Carry out administrative and finance related tasks in support of the programme • Manage the Tshwane Greening The Nation Project (SANBI). • National and international presentations on the value and purpose of the SANBI Outreach Greening programme(s).

OTHER RELEVANT EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Horticultural Trainer: 17 Shaft Training Centre, Johannesburg (June-July 2003)

Horticulturist: Pretoria National Botanical Garden (NBI) (May 1997-March 2002):

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: PIETER IGNATIUS OLIVIER

Name of Firm: Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd Position: Ecologist Nationality: South African Languages: Afrikaans (mother tongue), English

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

B. Sc (Ecology), University of Pretoria (2003 - 2005) B. Sc (Hons) Zoology, University of Pretoria (2006) M. Sc (Zoology) University of Pretoria (2007-2009)

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Presentations

South African Wildlife and Management Association (SAWMA) symposium (2006). Presented a paper: ‘ Dung as a tool in elephant demography: A case study in the Maputo Elephant Reserve, Mozambique’.

Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Annual General Meeting (2006). Presented a paper: Dung survey bias and elephant population estimates in southern Mozambique.

Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Annual General Meeting (2007). Presented a paper: A partial assessment of southern Africa’s elephants as a metapopulation.

South African Wildlife and Management Association (SAWMA) symposium (2008). Presented a paper: The metapopulation concept in conservation management.

Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Annual General Meeting (2008). Presented a paper: The applicability of metapopulation theory to elephant conservation. Best MSc presentation 2008.

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South African Wildlife and Management Association (SAWMA) Symposium (2009). Presented a paper: Demographic evidence for a metapopulation structure among southern Africa’s elephants.

Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria. Annual General Meeting (2009). Presented a paper: The applicability of metapopulation theory to elephant conservation. Runner up best MSc presentation 2009.

Publications

Olivier, P.I., Ferreira, S.M., & Van Aarde, R.J. (2009) Dung survey bias and elephant population estimates in southern Mozambique. African Journal of Ecology, 47 , 202-213.

Olivier, P.I., Van Aarde, R.J., & Ferreira, S.M. (2009) Support for a metapopulation structure in mammals. Mammal Review. 39 , 178-192.

Van Aarde, R.J., Ferreira, S.M., Jackson, T., Page, B., Junker, J., Gough, K., Ott, T., Trimble, M., Olivier, P., Guldemond, R., de Beer, Y. (2008) Elephant population biology and ecology. In : Assessment of South African Elephant Management (eds. Mennell, K.G. & Scholes, R.J.) Chapter 2, pp. 51-100.

Course Presentation:

An introduction to bird identification and survey techniques. University of Pretoria, 2009, 2010. Metapopulation Ecology. University of Pretoria, 2010.

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

South African Council for Natural Scientific Professionals (Registration pending) Bird Life South Africa

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Terrestrial Ecologist: Strategic Environmental Focus (October 2010 – Present) Tasks include:

Compile proposals and tenders for terrestrial specialist studies.

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Study authority correspondence to gain an understanding of minimum requirements. Gather background information, including geographical and species distributional information, for projects. Arrange logistic for site visits e.g. vehicles, accommodation and equipment. Conduct site visits to project locations and collect data. Identification of taxa. Data analysis and reporting of results. Liaise with SEF staff. Project management. Financial and time management (timesheets and invoice). Professional and personal development.

• Current Projects

Faunal Assessment for Magaliesburg pipeline, Gauteng. Wetland Mammal Survey for Bothasfontein Mushroomfarm, Midrand, Gauteng. Biodiversity baseline assessment for mine closure closed sites, BHP Billiton, Gauteng & Mpumalanga.

Research Fellow: University of Pretoria (September 2009 – September 2010) Tasks included:

Project Co-leader: National Geographic Big Cat’s Initiative – Surved the Tete Province of Mozambique to determine the presence and distribution of lions Panthera leo to facilitate the Mozambique Lion Action Plan. University of Pretoria, South Africa and Duke University, United States of America, 2010. Project Leader: Richards Bay Minerals Coastal Dune Forest Rehabilitation monitoring programme – Programme included ecological surveys of bird, mammal and invertebrate species and evaluation of the success of rehabilitation on these species. University of Pretoria, 2010, 2009. Project Co-worker: Determined the demography of elephants in the Kruger National Park, South Africa and the Limpopo National Park Mozambique. University of Pretoria and SANParks, South Africa, 2009. Project Leader: Determined the distribution and occurrence of Setaro’s dwarf cameleon Bradypodion setaro in coastal dune forest fragments in Kwa-Zulu Natal. University of Pretoria, 2009 Project Co-worker: Determined the resource use, age structures and conflict profiles of people living in rural areas in southern Mozambique. University of Pretoria, South Africa and University of Eduardo Montlante, Mozambique, 2009, 2008. Project Co-worker: Determined the structure and composition of bird communities occurring in fragmented Sand Forests in southern Mozambique. University of Pretoria, 2009. Project Leader: Evaluating southern Africa’s elephant sub-populations as a metapopulation. University of Pretoria, 2007, 2008.

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Project Leader. Estimated elephant population size and age structure by using dung surveys in the Maputo Elephant Reserve, Mozambique. University of Pretoria, 2006.

Sub-consultant: Strategic Environmental Focus (January 2007 – April 2007) Tasks included:

Avifaunal Sub-consultant: Isando Soil Erosion Management Project. Strategic Environmental Focus, 2007. Avifaunal Sub-consultant: Vlakfontein Industrial Commercial Development. Strategic Environmental Focus, 2007. •

• • •

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Willem Lubbe

Name of Firm: Strategic Environmental Focus Position: Senior Natural Scientist Nationality: South African Languages: Afrikaans (speak, read, write), English (speak, read, write)

TERTIARY QUALIFICATIONS

• National Higher Certificate Nature Conservation (2000) Technikon South Africa • National Diploma Nature Conservation (2003) Technikon South Africa • B.Tech Nature Conservation (2005) University of South-Africa

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS & SHORT COURSES

• Terra soil: Soil classification pertaining to wetland delineation (2008). • Short course in wetland delineation, legislation and rehabilitation, University of Pretoria (2007) • S.E.A.T. (Socio Economic Assessment Toolbox) implementation • WISH: A G.I.S. based database for the geohydrologist • Metago: Electronic Environmental Management system/database • An introduction to sewage treatment • EMS implementation and Internal auditors

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

• The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (Cand. Sci. Nat. Ecology & Botany) • South African Soil Surveyors Organisation • Gauteng Wetland Forum

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KEY CAPABILITIES

Wetland Ecologist

Delineation and functional assessment of wetlands and riparian areas in order to advise proposed development layouts, project management, rehabilitation interventions and report writing

Terrestrial Ecologist

Carrying out ecological studies for Environmental Impact Assessments, Scoping and Strategic studies, these studies involve flora and fauna assessments, sensitivity mapping; Red Data floral and faunal searches, as well as advice on ecosystem process and landscape ecology

Environmental Management Systems, Policy and Auditing

• Development, implementation and maintenance of ISO 14001 certified environmental management systems (EMS) and auditing of these systems; • Projects: Clean and dirty water separation, hydro carbon studies, invasive species programme and pollution investigations; • EMS database implementation and maintenance; • Rehabilitation programs: Acid Mine Drainage capturing & treatment, Historic coal slurry discharge cleanup and remediation; • Monitoring: Rehabilitation, Dust, Water quantities and quality, Legal compliance, Energy consumption and efficiency, Incident follow up; • Communication with interested and affected parties; and • Training related to environmental matters.

Sustainable Development

• Managing Director for commercial venture, production, sales and marketing; • Community skills development: HIV/Aids programme, Safety, Health and Environmental issues. Building of partnerships with Primary Agricultural, Education and Training Authority; • Community relocation programme for communities affected by development in Bethal / Kriel districts; and • Management of Wetland species relocation programme.

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EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Strategic Environmental Focus (Jan. 2007 – Present). Current position: Senior Natural Scientist

Some of the more recent projects include:

• Koornfontein mine, Biodiversity assessment – Wetland Component • Integrated Environmental Implementation Plan – Bushbuckridge Municipality: Wetland Specialist investigations and EMP; • Northern Mozambique Strategic Tourism Plan – Wetland delineation, Functional and Strategic assessment • Koornfontein mine Wetland Impact Mitigation Strategy • Inoland wetland age determination • Richards Bay Casino – Terrestrial Ecological, Wetland and Hydrological investigations; • Middelburg mines Treatment Plant and Pipeline – Wetland delineation & Functional assessment; • Rabie Ridge – Wetland delineation, Functional Assessment and Rehabilitation initiatives; • Lesotho Wetland project, terrestrial ecological component; • Strategic Environmental Assessment – Eskom – North-West / Free State / Gauteng; • Remainder of Allandale – Wetland delineation, Functional assessment and mitigation strategy • Olifantsvlei Cemetry - Wetland delineation, Functional assessment • Magaliesburg pipeline – Wetland opinion • Marlboro drive extension - Wetland delineation, Functional assessment and mitigation strategy • Longmeadow, Cullinan and Labuschagne lands ecological study and sensitivity mapping; • Thaba Tshwane Military grounds ecological study and sensitivity mapping; • Northern Golf-course Egoli Granite Grassland delineation; • Nondela Family Residential development ecological study, sensitivity mapping and EMP auditing; • Senqu-source Lesotho, proposed protected area baseline assessment, vegetation and management plan; • Edenvale Health Precinct ecological study and sensitivity mapping ; • Knoppieslaagte ecological study and sensitivity mapping; • Polokwane – Red Data Euphorbia clivicola population assessment and protected area management plan; • Reiger Park ecological study and sensitivity mapping; • Vlakfontein Commercial Development terrestrial ecological study, sensitivity mapping and wetland opinion; • Western Cape, Apollo Bricks faunal assessment; • Palm Ridge ecological study and sensitivity mapping; • Mozambique Residential development, ecological sensitivity assessment ; • Rosslyn, sensitivity scan; and • Olivienhoutsbosch Vegetation Opinion.

Anglo Coal – Isibonelo Colliery (Jan 2005 – Dec 2005). Position: Managing Director, Sunbali Pty.Ltd

• Business unit commercial functioning and viability enhancement; • Safety, health and environmental issues; • Skills capacity building and skills transfer; • Partnership building with affected role players; and • Plant rescue & propagation for open cast developments.

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Anglo Coal – Greenside Colliery (Jan 2004 – Dec 2004 ). Position: Environmental Officer

• Environmental auditing and implementation of environmental management systems including ISO 14001 systems • Certification and maintenance of ISO14001 systems

Anglo Coal – Bank Colliery (March 2002 – Dec 2003) Position: Environmental Assistant

• Environmental auditing and implementation of environmental management systems including ISO 14001 systems • Certification and maintenance of ISO14001 systems

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: BYRON GRANT

Name of Firm: Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd Position: Project Manager / Senior Natural Scientist SACNASP Status: Professional Natural Scientist (Reg. No. 400275/08) Nationality: South African Languages: English (mother tongue), Afrikaans

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• B. Sc. (Botany & Zoology), Rand Afrikaans University (1997 - 1999) • B. Sc. (Honours) Zoology, Rand Afrikaans University (2000) • M. Sc. (Aquatic Health) cum laude, Rand Afrikaans University (2001 – 2004) • SASS5 Field Assessment Accreditation in terms of the River Health Programme, Department of Water Affairs (2005 – present) • Introduction to quantitative research using sample surveys, Rand Afrikaans University (2004) • Monitoring Contaminant Levels: Freshwater Fish (Best Practice), University of Johannesburg (2005) • EcoStatus Determination training workshop, Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (2006) • Water Use Licence Applications: Section 21 (c) and (i) training workshop, Department of Water Affairs (2009) Advanced Wetland Course, University of Pretoria (2010)

Distinctions obtained 1997 Zoology 1B 1998 Zoology 2B 1999 Business Management 1B 2004 M.Sc. (Aquatic health)

Prestigious awards received National Research Foundation Grant Holders Bursary (2001 – 2003) RAU Merit Bursary (2000 – 2002) Junior Departmental Student Representative (2002)

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Extensive experience in aquatic resource monitoring and investigations, including specialist studies for Environmental Impact Assessments and the management and implementation of biomonitoring programmes as well as various other specialist environmental studies. Selected projects completed include:

Project Management: • Water quality monitoring for National Ceramic Industries SA • Water and sediment quality monitoring for Airport Company South Africa

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• Water quality monitoring for AfriSam (Dudfield Plant) • Dust Risk Assessment for Harmony Gold Mining Company (Evander) • Dust monitoring for Omnia Fertilizer (Rustenburg and Sasolburg) • Dust monitoring for Andalusite Resources • Specialist assessment for proposed development in Tatu, Kenya

Aquatic Specialist Assessments for Environmental Impact Assessments: • Lethabo Pump Station, Gauteng • Proposed Eskom Komati Water Augmentation Scheme. • Proposed Muldersdrif Outfall Sewer System, Gauteng. • Proposed Cradle City development, Gauteng.. • Aquatic opinion for upgrading of Waste Water Treatment Works for Joburg Water. • Proposed Vlakfontein Commercial Development, Gauteng. • Proposed Drakensberg Family Estate, KwaZulu-Natal. • Xolobeni Mineral Sands, Eastern Cape. • Proposed Edenvale Health Precinct. • Proposed establishment of the Royal Maluti Golf Estate, Clarens, Free State. • Proposed expansion for Ubombo Sugar Mill Cogeneration Project, Big Bend, Swaziland. • Proposed Wonderfontein Township Development, Wonderwaters, Pretoria. • Proposed Viking Bay Resort Complex Residential Golf Estate on Portion 6 of the Farm Koppiesfontein 478 IR, Gauteng. • Proposed Heidelberg Open Cast Mine, Gauteng. • Proposed Upgrading of Khutsong and Kokosi Sewage Treatment Plants, North West Province. • Proposed Leeuwkop Platinum Mine. • Proposed Mafube Mining Area and Associated Coal Conveyer System, Mpumalanga. • Proposed Lizard Point Golf and Residential Estate, Free State. • Proposed tailings dams for Burnstone Mine.

Biological Monitoring of the Aquatic Environment: • Nuwejaarspruit Ichthyofaunal Assessment, Free State. • Biomonitoring of the Aquatic Ecosystems associated with Koornfontein Mine, Mpumalanga. • Biomonitoring of the Aquatic Ecosystems associated with mines of the BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Afrca group, Mpumalanga. • Consulting services: supplemental field studies and beneficiary analysis related to a proposed rehabilitation and conservation strategy for wetlands in the highlands of Lesotho – Surface Water Assessment. • Biomonitoring of the Aquatic Ecosystems associated with Tubatse Ferrochrome Mine. • Biodiversity Assessment of Atcom Colliery, Phoenix Colliery, South Witbank Colliery, Tavistock Colliery and ATC Colliery. • Biological Monitoring of NECSA, Pelindaba. • Biological monitoring survey of aquatic ecosystems in the vicinity of the Xstrata Alloys Boshoek Smelter. • Biological Monitoring of the Witbank Dam and Middelburg Dam Catchment Managed Release Scheme. • Biological Monitoring of the aquatic ecosystem associated with the SASOL Secunda Industrial Complex. • Assessment of the Klein Olifants River associated with a Dragline Walkway, Optimum Colliery.

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• Biological monitoring for Two Rivers Platinum Mine. • Assessment of the heavy metal levels in edible fish tissue associated with the possible area of impact from Kolwezi Mine in Lake Nzilo, and the risk posed with consumption. • Biological Monitoring of Mittal Steel, Vanderbijlpark. • Biological Monitoring of the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works. • Biological Monitoring of the Southern Wastewater Treatment Works. • Aquatic Ecosystem Assessment of Pappa’s Waste Facility, Nelspruit. • Assessment of biotic integrity in surface waters associated with the SASOL Synfuels Plant, Secunda, following a fish kill. • Baseline Assessment of the proposed Riversdale Anthracite Mine, Vryheid. • Ecological Impact Assessment following surface water incident. • Baseline Ecological Study of the Aquatic Ecosystem associated with Xstrata Lydenburg.

Aquatic Specialist Input for Strategic Level Assessments: • Proposed Arco Norte tourism development proposal, Mozambique. • Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment Regional Environmental Management Framework. • Wetland Audit for City of Johannesburg. • Pretoria Strategic Environmental Assessment. • Madibeng Environmental Management Framework. • Emalahleni Environmental Integrated Municipal Environmental Programme. • Crocodile East Reconnaisance study.

Other: • Mokolo River Intermediate Reserve Determination as a trainee on the water quality aspects. • Development of a Biodiversity Action Plans for BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa. • Development of Biodiversity Databases for BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa. • Environmental Risk Assessment and Due Diligence for Rietspruit Coal Processing Plant, BHP Billiton. • Integrated Water Use Licence Application for AfriSam (Dudfield Plant).

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

• South African National Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) – Professional Natural Scientist

Society Memberships

• South African Society of Aquatic Scientists • Zoological Society of Southern Africa

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Other Memberships

• Aquatox Forum • Gauteng Wetland Forum • Klipriviersberg Conservancy • Yellowfish Working Group

COUNTRIES OF EXPERIENCE

South Africa Lesotho Swaziland Mozambique

WORKSHOP PARTICIPATION

• Wetland and Watercourse Buffers Determination. Project for the Department of Water Affairs, Sub-directorate: Water Abstraction and Instream Use • NEMBA category 2 alien fish species mapping for Gauteng, Limpopo and Northwest Provinces and a national review, South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) • Biodiversity Offsets Strategy, Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment (GDACE) • Minimum Requirements for Biodiversity Assessments (Version 2), Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment (GDACE)

PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Grant, B., J.H.J. van Vuren & M.J. Cronjé. HSP 70 response of Oreochromis mossambicus to Cu2+ exposure in two different types of exposure media. Poster presentation, SASAqS Conference, 2004.

Mlambo, S.S., J.H.J. van Vuren, R. Basson & B. Grant. (2010). Accumulation of hepatic HSP70 and plasma cortisol in Oreochromis mossambicus following sublethal metal and DDT exposure. African Journal of Aquatic Science 35(1): 47-53.

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Project Manager / Senior Natural Scientist: Strategic Environmental Focus (July 2006 – present). Tasks include: • Project management and co-ordination of specialist-related projects • Management and implementation of biological monitoring programmes for the aquatic environment (biomonitoring) • Aquatic specialist assessments for Environmental Impact Assessments

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• Aquatic specialist Input for strategic-level assessments, including Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Management Frameworks, State of the Environment Reports, etc. • Application of various monitoring indices, including the South African Scoring System version 5 (SASS5), the Macro Invertebrate Response Assessment Index (MIRAI), the Invertebrate Habitat Assessment System (IHAS), the Index for Habitat Integrity (IHI), the Fish Assemblage Integrity Index (FAII), the Fish Response Assessment Index (FRAI), the Physico-chemical Assessment Index (PAI), and the determination of EcoStatus • Fish kill investigations • Reserve Determinations – Water Quality Component • Biodiversity assessments • Biodiversity databases • Biodiversity Action Plans • Environmental Risk Assessments and Environmental Due Diligence • Aquatic toxicity assessments • Bioaccumulation studies • Surface water quality studies • Human health risk assessments for the consumption of freshwater fish • Co-operation with provincial conservation authorities as well as biodiversity institutes (South African National Biodiversity Institute, South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, etc.) • Scientific data interpretation, statistical analysis and report preparation • Quality control and review of internal and external scientific reports and literature • Mentoring of junior staff members

Natural Scientist: ECOSUN (January 2005 – June 2006). Tasks Include: • Management of aquatic biomonitoring programs. • Compilation of biomonitoring reports (Present Ecological Status) to industry investigating biological (macro-invertebrates with the use of SASS 5, fish with the use of FAII) habitat (IHAS, HAM, etc.) and water quality components of aquatic ecosystem • Assessment of the effects of surface water pollution incidents on aquatic fauna • Providing specialist input for biodiversity assessments • Conducting specialist studies for Environmental Impact Assessments

Personal research: • HSP70 and Histological changes in the liver of Oreochromis mossambicus after sub-lethal exposure to Cupric Chloride (M.Sc. study; January 2000 – July 2004) • The effect of copper on the blood variables of Oreochromis mossambicus following chronic exposure (B.Sc. Honours project; January 2000 – December 2000)

Mentor / Research assistance on Honours and M.Sc. Projects: • Validation of Antibodies for HSP70 Detection in the Freshwater Snail Melanoides tuberculata B.Sc. (Honours) Student (January 2003 – December 2003) • The use of genotoxic and stress proteins in the active biomonitoring of the Rietvlei system, South Africa – M.Sc. Student (January 2003 – December 2003) • A comparison between whole effluent toxicity testing (wet) and active biomonitoring (abm) as indicators of in stream aquatic health – M.Sc. Student (January 2003 – December 2003) • The use of HSP70 and cortisol as biomarkers for heavy metal exposure - M.Sc. Student (January 2004 – December 2005)

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• Rand Afrikaans University (January 2000- December 2004). Tasks included: • Assistance as a 3rd Year Aquatic Ecology practical demonstrator • Assistance as a practical demonstrator for 1st Year ecology and conservation students for Vista University • Assistance as a 2nd Year Human Physiology practical demonstrator • Field supervisor for RAU B.Sc. Honours aquatic parasite excursion to the Vaal Dam

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