Eskom Holdings Limited Eskom Transmission Division September 2012 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CONSULTANTS P.O. BOX 1673 SUNNINGHILL 2157 147 Bram Fischer Drive FERNDALE Randburg Phone: (011) 781 1730 Fax: (011) 781 1731 Email: [email protected]Copyright Nemai Consulting 2012 PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ANDERSON 400kV SUBSTATION IN FLORA PARK, GAUTENG FLORA AND FAUNA ASSESSMENT
75
Embed
400kV SUBSTATION IN FLORA PARK, GAUTENG - Eskom · Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in ... establishment of the Anderson 400kv ... that might need further investigation
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment ii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Nemai Consulting was appointed by Eskom as the independent Environmental Assessment
Practitioner (EAP) to undertake the Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed
establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation. A Flora and Fauna survey was carried out
to determine the potential impacts of the proposed substation on the receiving environment.
The proposed Anderson substation will be on Portions 82, 83 and 76 of Farms Schurveberg
488 JQ.
The study area is dominated by grasslands, woodlands and a residential area. The objective
of this study was to identify sensitive species and their habitats in the proposed site. The
current ecological status and conservation priority of vegetation on the site were assessed.
Potential faunal habitats were assessed in the study area and all mammals and birds known
to occur on site or seen on site were recorded. Red data species (both fauna and flora) that
are known to occur on site were investigated.
The study area falls within the savanna biome and has been categorised as Andesite
Mountain Bushveld vegetation unit. There are no Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems
recorded on the proposed site. Gauteng Conservation Plan 3.3 described the study area as
falling within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) and an Ecological Sensitive Area (ESA). The
CBAs in the study area is Irreplaceable Area but due to grazing and anthropogenic activities
such as human settlements, the study area is not in pristine condition. A specialist
investigation has indicated that significant environmental impacts may result if the mitigation
measures listed in this report are not implemented.
No Red Data plant species were recorded in this study but only one species of conservation
importance (Orange listed species) was recorded on site, namely, Hypoxis hemerocallidea.
This plant species recorded should be relocated to a safe, suitable area, such as the
conservation area.
Only three mammal species were recorded during the field assessment. No sensitive or
endangered mammals were recorded within the study area. Taking into consideration the
fact that Red Data mammals are reliant on pristine and stable habitats, few, if any,
threatened small mammals are expected to occur in the study area. The majority of larger
mammal species are likely to have moved away from the area, as a result of habitat
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
alteration and degradation together with the development of human settlements which lead
to illegal hunting and poaching. During the construction of the substation, it is anticipated
that there would be a further loss of ecologically sensitive and important habitat units;
ecosystem function and loss of faunal habitat. It is anticipated that mammals residing on site
will move to another area nearby and could move back after the area has been rehabilitated.
An avifaunal study indicated that the riparian vegetation, woodlands and patches of
grasslands should provide natural habitats for bird species, however no Red data bird
species were observed on the study site. Bird species recorded during a field survey are
common and widespread. The study area falls near an Important Bird Area (IBA), namely
the Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg (ZA018) IBA, approximately 2km away. IBAs form a
network of sites, at a biogeographic scale, which are critical for the long-term viability of
naturally occurring bird populations. The proposed substation will only have a negative
impact during the construction phase whereafter the birds will return to the area. It is
recommended that, for areas in close proximity to sensitive habitats (such as near Moganwe
River) disturbance factors must be limited as much as possible. Undue disturbance factors
will displace sensitive species.
The proposed development will cause disruption during the construction phase, but as long
as mitigation measures are carried out properly, these disruptions should have minimal
lasting effect on the ecosystems of the proposed development. From an ecological point of
view, the proposed substation should proceed as planned.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................ ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................. iv
LIST OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................................... v
LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................................................ v
APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................................ v
QUALITY VERIFICATION .......................................................................................................................... vi
1.1. Objectives of the survey ...................................................................................................... 1 2. RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES ..................................................................................... 2
3. STUDY AREA .................................................................................................................................... 2
4. LIMITATIONS AND GAPS ................................................................................................................. 5
5. VELD TYPE DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................. 6
7. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION............................................................................................................ 11
7.1 Flora ..................................................................................................................................... 11 7.1.1 Desktop study results ................................................................................................ 11 7.1.2 Plant communities recorded in the study area ....................................................... 12 7.1.3 Alien invasive species recorded in the proposed Anderson substation ............. 15 7.1.4 Medicinal plants and Red Data Listed plant species ............................................ 16 7.1.5 Habitat available for species of conservation importance .................................... 17
233 White-bellied Korhaan Vulnerable Often in the interface
between grassland and
savanna. Avoids severely
grazed and recently burnt
sites
Likely
242 Greater Painted-snipe Near
Threatened
Various aquatic habitats Unlikely
322 Caspian Tern Near
Threatened
Estuaries and large inland
water bodies
Unlikely
346 Yellow-throated
Sandgrouse
Near
Threatened
Short-grass plains, usually
not far from water; also
recently burnt ground,
cultivated fields, especially
on black clay soils
Likely
393 African Grass-Owl Vulnerable Found in rank grass
adjacent to wetlands
Highly unlikely
430 Half-collared Kingfisher Near
Threatened
Fast-flowing streams with
clear water and well-
wooded banks
Likely
772 Red-billed Oxpecker Near
Threatened
Savanna and bushveld Likely
Field work results
Many avifaunal species are adaptable as they are habitat generalists and can therefore
accommodate a certain degree of habitat degradation and transformation (Harrison et al.,
1997). Other species are extremely habitat specific and have to rely on certain habitat units
for breeding, hunting or foraging and roosting. Habitat-specific species are sensitive to
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 25
environmental change, with destruction of habitat being the leading cause of species decline
worldwide (Barnes, 2000). Due to levels of human disturbance the site offers limited suitable
habitat for any larger terrestrial birds as well as certain smaller raptor species. Potential
nesting sites for raptors were searched for during fieldwork but none found on site. Within
the vegetation types found in the study area and immediate surrounding areas, three major
bird habitat systems were identified:
1. Woodland: The savanna biome is the most species-rich biome in southern Africa,
but very few bird species are restricted to savanna (Barnes, 2000). The woodland habitat
forms the stronghold of Red Data raptor species such as Martial Eagle (Polemaetus
bellicosus), Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres), Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotis) and
Ayres's Hawk-Eagle (Aquila ayresii) (Hockey et al. 2005; SABAP2, 2012)). Woodland areas
in the study area are transformed and fragmented due to human settlement.
2. Patches of remaining grasslands: The natural grasslands have been transformed
into human settlements but patches of natural grasslands still remain on site. The
Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is amongst the Red Data Listed species recorded
from the region that readily utilize the open grasslands and since this habitat has been
transformed, there is little possibility that this species still continue living in the study area.
Many of the habitat generalist species utilize this habitat type predominantly for foraging and
hunting purposes. The farmland habitat type, however, is not a habitat type that is relied
upon by any avifaunal species for survival, but opportunistic species that migrate between
agricultural fields (van Rooyen, 2004).
3. Rivers and associated riparian vegetation: The study area includes a highly
significant sensitive faunal habitat – riparian vegetation, which could be suitable habitat for
bird species that utilise this habitat type. Riparian habitats are of particular importance for
birds in the study area. Areas with reeds, sedges or grassy tangles are suitable for Common
Waxbills (Estrilda astrilda), Bishops and various warblers (Marais & Peacock, 2008). Very
little birdlife was observed along the rivers during the site visit, but reed beds will provide
important potential breeding sites for many of the bishops and weavers that were observed.
Bird species observed in the study area
A comprehensive bird species list requires intensive surveys compiled over several years.
Twenty eight bird species (Table 12) were recorded during the field survey. Species
recorded were common and widespread. No Red Data bird species associated with the
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 26
proposed site were recorded within the study area. However, due to the suitable nature of
the habitats, occasional visits cannot be discounted without long-term intensive surveys.
Table 12. Bird species recorded during the survey
Number Common Name Scientific Name
94 Hadeda ibis Bostrychia hagedash
249 Three-banded plover Charadrius pallidus
255 Crowned lapwing (plover) Vanellus coronatus
348 Feral Pigeon Columba livia
349 Rock pigeon Columba guinea
352 Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata
355 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis
417 Little Swift Apus affinis
424 Speckled mousebird Colius striatus
444 Little bee-eater Merops pusillus
476 Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor
526 Greater Striped Swallow Hirundo cucullata
548 Pied crow Corvus albus
568 Red-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans
635 Lesser swap-warbler Acrocephalus griseldis
683 Tawnyflanked Prinia Prinia subflava
732 Common fiscal (Fiscal Shrike) Lanius collaris
758 Indian Myna Acridotheres zeylonus
787 Whitebellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala
801 House Sparrow Passer domesticus
814 Southern Masked-Weaver Ploceus velatus
824 Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix
826 Yellow-crowned Bishop Euplectes afer
8. ECOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF THE STUDY AREA
The objective of the ecological sensitivity analysis is to specify the location and extent of all
sensitive areas on site that must be protected from transforming land uses.
The following criteria were used to identify sensitive areas (Figure 14) within the study area:
Critical Biodiversity Area and an Ecological Sensitive Area;
Rivers; and
Important Bird Area.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 27
Figure 11. Sensitivity Map of the proposed Anderson substation
9. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
9.1 Methodology
All impacts are analysed in the section to follow (Table 13) with regard to their nature,
extent, magnitude, duration, probability and significance. The following definitions apply:
Nature (/Status) The project could have a positive, negative or neutral impact on the environment.
Extent
Local – extend to the site and its immediate surroundings.
Regional – impact on the region but within the province.
National – impact on an interprovincial scale.
International – impact outside of South Africa.
Magnitude Degree to which impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources.
Low – natural and social functions and processes are not affected or minimally affected.
Medium – affected environment is notably altered; natural and social functions and processes continue albeit in a modified way.
High – natural or social functions or processes could be substantially affected or altered to the extent that they could temporarily or permanently cease.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 28
Duration
Short term – 0-5 years.
Medium term – 5-11 years.
Long term – impact ceases after the operational life cycle of the activity either because of natural processes or by human intervention.
Permanent – mitigation either by natural process or by human intervention will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient.
Probability
Almost certain – the event is expected to occur in most circumstances.
Likely – the event will probably occur in most circumstances.
Moderate – the event should occur at some time.
Unlikely – the event could occur at some time.
Rare/Remote – the event may occur only in exceptional circumstances.
Significance Provides an overall impression of an impact’s importance, and the degree to which it can be mitigated. The range for significance ratings is as follows- 0 – Impact will not affect the environment. No mitigation necessary. 1 – No impact after mitigation. 2 – Residual impact after mitigation. 3 – Impact cannot be mitigated.
9.2 Assessment of Environmental Impacts and Suggested Mitigation Measures
The possible impacts of proposed development on the study area are divided into three
phases of activities: Pre-Construction, Construction phase and Operational phase of the
development. Mitigation measures are provided to prevent (first priority), reduce or
remediate adverse environmental impacts.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 29
Table 13. Recommended mitigation measures with significance rating before and after mitigation for the proposed Anderson substation.
FLORA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Search and Rescue A qualified and / or appropriately experienced Botanist or an experienced person who knows specific vegetation types well should mark any species of conservation importance (Hypoxis hemerocallidea) and other medicinal plants when the route is pegged.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Almost certain 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Low Short-term Likely 2
FLORA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Site preparation During site preparation topsoil must be removed and stored separately from organic material and spoil material for use in the rehabilitation phase. It should be protected from wind and rain, as well as contamination from diesel, concrete or wastewater. Records of all environmental incidents must be maintained and a copy of these records must be made available to authorities on request throughout the project execution.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 30
Local Medium Short-term Likely 2
FLORA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Establishment of Site Camps
A suitable position for the construction camp to be selected, in consultation with the Environmental Control Officer (ECO). The positioning of the site camp must not be near any sensitive areas such as Moganwe river, but rather be positioned in areas that are already disturbed, such as near human settlements.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Positive Search and Rescue A qualified and / or appropriately experienced Zoologist or an experienced person who knows the animals in the region well will identify any possible Red Data fauna on site and the necessary permits to relocate fauna will be obtained if avoidance is not possible. Training of construction workers to recognise threatened animal species will reduce the probability of fauna being harmed unnecessarily.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 31
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Low Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Site preparation During site preparation special care must be taken during the clearing of the works area to minimise damage or disturbance of roosting and nesting sites. Before construction commences, all sensitive habitats, such as rivers must be clearly demarcated with fencing or orange mesh netting. Barricading measures to be utilised should not restrict the movement of the fauna in the area.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA PRE – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Disturbance to animals on site
Stringent and dedicated control not to disturb animals on site.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 32
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Habitat lost during clearing for the access road.
Careful planning of access roads in order to prevent excessive removal of trees and prevent soil erosion. Topsoil will only be removed off areas proposed for access roads. All soils should be stored and managed correctly for rehabilitation. Rehabilitate all temporarily access roads by replacing topsoil and scarring compacted earth to allow seedlings to take root. When possible make use of existing road rather than creating new access routes. No collection of firewood may be allowed.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Destruction of species of conservation importance and their natural habitats
The removal of any plant material from site, including flowers or bulbs is strictly prohibited unless unavoidable and essential for the purposes of construction. Relocation of plants of conservation importance (such as Hypoxis hemerocallidea) should be implemented by a qualified specialist.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 33
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
The contractor for vegetation clearing must have the knowledge to be able to identify different species, declared weeds and alien species. Leave as much of the natural vegetation intact in order to maintain ecological corridors for the movement of species and make an effort to increase the natural areas around sensitive features such as rivers.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Vegetation and soil disturbance around construction sites due to general construction activities
Minimise topsoil disturbance as far as possible. Level and landscape disturbed topsoil areas to facilitate plant succession. Erosion control measures, such as stone packing, brush packing and reseeding, should be included on disturbed areas.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 34
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Soil contamination, vegetation loss and vegetation disturbance due to fuel and chemical spills.
Employ on site personnel responsible for preventing and controlling potential soil pollution through fuel and oil leaks and spills. Make sure construction vehicles are maintained and serviced to prevent oil and fuel leaks. Emergency on-site maintenance should be done over appropriate drip trays and all oil or fuel must be disposed of according to waste regulations. Drip-trays must be placed under vehicles and equipment when not in use. Containers containing potential contaminating substances must be kept on drip-trays or tarpaulins in case of spills.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Loss of aesthetic value and sense of place.
Ensure that development designs compliment the natural surroundings in order to preserve a sense of place.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 35
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Vegetation disturbance in and around construction camps.
Fencing of construction camps. No equipment or personnel will be allowed outside of the fenced construction servitude. Level and landscape disturbed topsoil areas to facilitate plant succession and to match surrounding topography. Erect construction camps on previously disturbed areas, preferably near residential areas. Erect construction camps on level surfaces only.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Vegetation and habitat disturbance due to the accidental introduction of alien species.
Promote awareness of all personnel. After construction programme monitoring and control of alien weeds and invaders through hand removal; slashing (annuals) or chemical control (perennials).
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 36
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Vegetation and habitat disturbance due to pollution and littering during construction phase.
Employ personnel on site responsible for preventing and controlling of litter. Promote housekeeping with daily clean-ups on site. Before construction commences, construction workers should be educated with regards to littering, ad hoc veld fires, and dumping. Fires must be limited to designated areas and monitored closely.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Damage to plant life outside of the proposed Anderson substation area
Measures must be taken to penalise construction workers who damage plants intentionally or remove plants accidentally without reporting the incident.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 37
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Vegetation disturbance due to increased dust during construction phase.
Wetting down of work areas can be used to reduce dust levels but not to a degree that causes runoff and contamination. Cultivate awareness among personnel to limit excessive and unnecessary dust. Maintain speed control measures on access roads through construction of speed bumps and speed limit signs.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Disturbance to animals Animals residing within the designated area shall not be unnecessarily disturbed. Before construction starts, construction workers must be educated with regards to littering and poaching. The Contractor and his/her employees shall not bring any domestic animals onto site. Photographs of sensitive animals must be displayed in the construction
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 38
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
camp to heighten awareness of the creatures. Toolbox talks should be provided to contractors regarding disturbance to animals. Particular emphasis should be placed on talks regarding snakes.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Removal of vegetation Leave as much of the natural vegetation intact as possible in order to maintain ecological corridors for the movement of species. Make an effort to increase the natural areas around sensitive features such as rivers. In areas where there are nesting sites for birds, vegetation should not be disturbed, particularly near rivers. All soils should be stored and managed correctly for rehabilitation to maintain natural habitats for animals. Construction activities should be limited to daylight hours, in order to minimise impacts on nocturnal fauna
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local High Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 39
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Transportation of materials
Construction trucks should travel at a maximum speed of 40Km/h on access roads and 10Km/h on site in order to avoid unnecessary killings of animals found on site. Loose material such as sand and gravel must be covered with tarpaulins during transport.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Allow for safe animal passage through and specifically out of the construction site.
Construction areas must be fenced using palisades for the migration of small faunal species out of the construction zone. This excludes areas where animal activity could be hazardous where such areas should be appropriately blocked off. Site camps should be placed in areas that do not impact on animal movement corridors.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 40
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FAUNA CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative To protect and maintain habitats of sensitive species.
Important sensitive habitats such as rivers need to be preserved in order to protect species that utilise these areas as their preferred habitats. A buffer-zone around sensitive areas must be demarcated with hazard tape or orange mesh netting to prevent accidental disturbance.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA OPERATIONAL PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative The construction of the proposed Anderson substation may affect biodiversity through the encroachment of exotic vegetation following soil disturbance, in addition the maintenance of the area would disturb naturalised species within the area.
Encroachment of alien vegetation should be monitored regularly and controlled; the area must be kept clear of all invader plants as per the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No 43 of 1983). Rehabilitation measures must be employed until such a time as indigenous species are established.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 41
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
FLORA/FAUNA OPERATIONAL PHASE
Impact Nature Description Mitigation
Direct Negative Impacts on local and national conservation obligations & targets
This impact affects the status of conservation strategies and targets on a local as well as national level and is viewed in conjunction with other types of local and regional impacts that affects conservation areas. Impacts that could potentially affect the status of protected areas are regarded as unacceptable and should be avoided at all costs. The study area falls within Irreplaceable area and as such any further negative impacts on such areas should be avoided.
Without Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
With Mitigation Extent Magnitude Duration Probability Significance
Local Medium Medium-term Likely 2
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 42
10. CONCLUSION
The study area falls within the two savanna biome, and has been categorised as Andesite
Mountain Bushveld vegetation unit. No Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems were recorded on
the proposed Anderson substation. Gauteng Conservation Plan 3.3 described the study area
as falling within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) and Ecological Sensitive Area (ESA). The
CBAs in the study are Irreplaceable Area an, Important Area and ESA. No Protected Areas
exist on the proposed substation. The study area falls within Irreplaceable area but due to
grazing and anthropogenic activities such as human settlements, the study area is not in
pristine condition and as such any further negative impacts on such areas should be
avoided.
No Red Data plant species were recorded in this study. Only one species of conservation
importance (Orange listed species) was recorded on site, Hypoxis hemerocallidea. This
plant species recorded should be relocated to a safe, suitable area, such as the
conservation area.
Only three mammal species were recorded during the field assessment. No sensitive or
endangered mammals were recorded within the study area. Taking into consideration the
fact that Red Data mammals are generally reliant on pristine and stable habitats, few, if any,
threatened mammals are expected to occur in the study area. The majority of larger
mammal species are likely to have moved away from the area, as a result of habitat
alteration and degradation together with the development of human settlements which lead
to disturbance and poaching. During the construction of proposed substation it is anticipated
that there would be a loss of ecologically sensitive and important habitat units; ecosystem
function and faunal habitat. It is anticipated that any mammals residing on site would move
to another area nearby and could move back after the proposed substation has been
completed and rehabilitated.
An avifaunal study indicated that while riparian vegetation and patches of grassland should
provide natural habitats for bird species, no Red data bird species were observed on the
study site. Species recorded during field survey are common and widespread. The nearest
Important Bird Area to the proposed substation is the Magaliesberg & Witwatersberg
(approximately 2Km). The proposed substation will only have a negative impact during the
construction phase whereafter the birds will probably return to the area. It is however
recommended that for areas where the substation will run in close proximity to sensitive
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 43
habitats (Mogwane river), the disturbance factors must be limited as much as possible to
avoid displacement of sensitive species.
A specialist investigation has indicated that significant environmental impacts may result if
the mitigation measures listed in this report are not implemented, particularly with species of
conservation importance and in sensitive habitats such as rivers. The proposed development
will cause disruption during the construction phase, but as long as mitigation measures are
carried out properly, these disruptions should have minimal lasting effect on the ecosystems
of the proposed development. From an ecological point of view, the proposed substation
should proceed as planned.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 44
11. REFERENCES
Anon (2008). Guideline regarding the Determination of Bioregions and the Preparation
and Publication of Bioregional Plans. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.
BARNES, K.N. (ED.) (1998). The Important Bird Areas of Southern Africa. BirdLife South
Africa: Johannesburg.
BARNES, K.N. (ed.) (2000). The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa,
Lesotho & Swaziland. Birdlife South Africa, Johannesburg.
BROMILOW, C. (1995). Problem Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
BROMILOW, C. (2001). Problem plants of South Africa. Briza, Pretoria.
CILLIÉ, B. (2009). The Mammal Guide of Southern Africa. Briza Publications. Second
Edition, third impression. Pretoria. South Africa.
Gauteng Conservation Plan Version 3.3 (C-Plan 3.3). Gauteng Department of
Agriculture and Rural Development. Directorate Nature Conservation. Technological
Services.
HARRISON, J.A., ALLAN, D.G., UNDERHILL, L.G., HERREMANS, M., TREE, A.J.,
PARKER, V. & BROWN, C.J. (EDS). (1997). The atlas of Southern African birds. Vols
1&2. BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg.
HENDERSON, L. 2001. Alien weeds and invasive plants. ARC, Pretoria.
HOCKEY, P.A.R., DEAN, W.R.J. & RYAN, P.G. (eds.) (2005). Roberts – Birds of Southern
Africa. VIIth ed. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Cape Town.
LOW, A.B & REBELO, A.G. (1996). Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.
Dept. Of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.
MARAIS, E. & PEACOCK, F. (2008). The chamberlain guide to birding Gauteng. Miranda
Publishing. Cape Town.
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 45
MUCINA, L. & RUTHERFORD, M.C. (eds). (2006). The vegetation of South Africa,
Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19. South African Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
PFAB, M.F. & VICTOR. J.E. (2002). Threatened plants of Gauteng, South Africa. South
African Journal of Botany 68: 370-375.
PFAB, M. (2009). GDARD requirements for biodiversity assessments version 2.
Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Directorate of Nature
Conservation. South Africa.
POOLEY, E.S. (1998). A Field Guide to Wildflowers Kwazulu-Natal and the eastern
region. Natal Flora Publishers Trust: Durban, South Africa.
POOLEY, E.S. (2005). A Field Guide to Wildflowers Kwazulu-Natal and the eastern
region. Natal Flora Publishers Trust: Durban, South Africa.
RAIMONDO, D., VON STADEN, L., FODEN, W., VICTOR, J.E., HELME, N.A., TURNER,
R.C., KAMUNDI, D.A. & MANYAMA, P.A. (eds) In press. Red List of South African plants.
Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
RUTHERFORD, M.C. & WESTFALL, R.H. (1994). Biomes of southern Africa: an
objective characterisation. Mem. Bot. Surv. S. Afr. No. 63.
SINCLAIR, I., HOCKEY, P. & TARBOTON, W. (2005). Sasol Birds of Southern Africa.
Struik Publishers, Cape Town.
SKINNER, J.D. & CHIMIMBA, C. T. (2005). The Mammals of the Southern African
Subregion. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
STUART, C. & STUART, T. (1988). Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa.
Struik Publishers, Cape Town.
VAN ROOYEN, C. (2004). Chapter 11: The management of wildlife interactions with
overhead lines. In: Bittern, A. C., Bisnath, S., Marshall, E., Reynders, J. P., Pillay, T. and
Cretchley, D. (Editors) (2004). The fundamental and practice of overhead line
Proposed establishment of the Anderson 400kv substation in Broederstroom North West province
Flora and Fauna Assessment 46
maintenance: 132 kV and above. Eskom Power Series, Vol 2, Crown Publications CC,
Johannesburg.
VAN WYK, B., VAN OUDTSHOORN, B. AND GERICKE, N. (1997) Medicinal plants of
South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
WESSON, J. 2006. Birds of the Magaliesberg: a checklist. Brits: Brits Rotary Club.