EOH Coastal & Environmental Services Waaihoek … WEF Draft Scoping...EOH Coastal & Environmental...
Transcript of EOH Coastal & Environmental Services Waaihoek … WEF Draft Scoping...EOH Coastal & Environmental...
EOH Coastal & Environmental Services Waaihoek Wind Energy Facility 156
14.1.4 Correspondence with Stakeholders See attached documentation
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14.1.5 Correspondence with Landowners See attached documentation
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14.1.6 Correspondence with Surrounding Landowners See attached documentation
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14.1.7 Correspondence with Registered I&APs Please find the following attached
a) Comment and Response from BirdLife South Africa b) Comment and Response from Endangered Wildlife Trust c) Comment and Response from Richardson & Peplow Environmental d) Comment and Response from KZN Bat Interest Group
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14.2 Appendix B: Interested and Affected Parties Database
STAKEHOLDERS
Stakeholder Contact Person
SANRAL Ms Nanna Gouws
Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries: Land Use & Soil Management Ms Anneliza Collett
Eskom: Renewable Energy Mr Kevin Leask
Eskom Ms Tshililo Nekhalali
Eskom: Land & Rights Section Ms Michelle Nicol
Department of Water Affairs Ms Zethu Makwabasa
Department of Energy Ms Mokgadi Mathekgana
Department of Environmental Affairs: General Enquiries Mr Albi Modise
Department of Environmental Affairs: Project Enquiries Ms Mmatlala Rabothata
Department of Agriculture & Environment (DAE) KZN: Senior Manager Environmental Affairs North Region Dr LW Mngoma
Department of Agriculture & Environment (DAE) KZN: Environmental Services District Manager Mr Zama Mathenjwa
Department of Agriculture & Environment (DAE) KZN: Amajuba District Agriculture District Manager Mr John Nhleko
Department of Agriculture & Environment (DAE) KZN: HOD EIA Mr Poovey Moodley
Amajuba DM Manager Mr Linda Africa
Emadlangeni LM Manager Ms GP Ntshangase
Emadlangeni Technical Services Mr Khumbulani Gwala
Emadlangeni Ward 1 councillor Cllr V. Ndlovu
Emadlangeni Ward 3 councillor Cllr B.M Phenyane
Renewable energy forum in KZN: Chairperson Ms Abigail Knox
Telkom Mr Raymond Couch
Sentech Ms Alishea Viljoen
Vodacom Mr Andre Barnard
Civil Aviation Authority Ms Lizelle Stroh
Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS): Vryheid and Newcastle airports Mr Dylan Fryer
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Ms Dinesree Thambu
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Ms Felicity Elliott
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: Integrated Environmental Management Mr Andy Blackmore
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: District Conservation Officer, Underberg Region Mr Richard Schutte
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: Regional Ecologist Ms Sonja Kruger
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: Ecological Advice Division Mr Ian Rushworth
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: KZN Biodiversity Stewardship Programme Mr Greg Martindale
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: Avifaunal unit Mr Athol Marchant
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: District Ecologist Mr Petros Ngwenya
AMAFA / Heritage KwaZulu Natal Ms Annie van der Venter
AMAFA / Heritage KwaZulu Natal Mr James van Vuuren
Birdlife South Africa Mr Daniel Marnewick
Birdlife South Africa Dr Hanneline Smit-Robinson
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Birdlife South Africa: Birds and Renewable Energy Manager Ms Samantha Ralson
Endangered Wildlife Trust: CEO Ms Yolan Friedman
Endangered Wildlife Trust: Head of Conservation Science Dr Harriet Davies-Mostert
Endangered Wildlife Trust: African Crane Conservation Programme Manager Ms Kerryn Morrison
Endangered Wildlife Trust: African Crane Conservation Programme Field Officer Ms Glenn Ramke
Endangered Wildlife Trust: Senior Field Officer KZN Ms Tanya Smith
Endangered Wildlife Trust: Wildlife & Energy Programme Mr Lourens Leeuwner
WESSA KZN Region Ms Jenny Duvenage
WESSA KZN Region: Conservation Project Manager Mr Chris Galliers
WESSA KZN Region: Conservation Director Mr Garth Barnes
WWF: Enkangala Grasslands Project South Africa Mr Angus Burns
The Bat Interest Group of KwaZulu-Natal Ms Wendy White
Utrecht Farmers Association Ms Michelle van Staden
Ingogo Farmers Association Mr Jan Smit
Groenvlei Farmers Association Mr Christoff Joubert
Dejagersdrift Farmers Association Mrs Patricia Strauss
Vryheid Farmers Association Ms Lurien Jacobsz
Battlefields Route Association KZN Mr Dave Sutclifft
LANDOWNERS
Farm Number/Portion
Farm
Contact Person Name
180/1 Goedgeloof Mr Charles Johan de Villiers
180/RE Goedgeloof
Mr Petrus Stephanus Fourie 173/9 Waaihoek
173/11 Waaihoek
173/3 Waaihoek
Waaihoek Community Trust 173/4 Waaihoek
173/5 Waaihoek
173/6 Waaihoek Mr Job Dube
152/1 Groothoek Mr Greyling
152/3 Groothoek
152/2 Groothoek
152/5 Groothoek
152/7 Groothoek
152/10 Groothoek
152/13 Groothoek
177/3 Goede Hoop Ms Marina Theron (Goedehoop Number 177 Farming)
177/6 Goede Hoop Mr Craig de Oliviera (Counterpoint Trading 402 BK)
182/2 Weltevreden Mr Koos Uys (Jurust EDMS BPK Pty Ltd.)
182/1 Weltevreden
17068/1 Wijdgelegen
Mr Karel Landman (Fanie Landman Family Trust) 17068/2 Wijdgelegen
17068/5 Wijdgelegen
17068/3 Wijdgelegen Mr David Stock; Mr Kobus vd Bank (Knights Farm Pty Ltd)
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17068/4 Wijdgelegen Mr Lafras Uys (Jutein EDMS BPK)
77/RE Paardepoort Mr Inus Davel (Davelhoek Trust)
77/1 Paardepoort
17069/9 Bloedrivier Mr Robert Stannard
ADJACENT LANDOWNERS
Farm Number/Portion
Farm
Contact Person Name
17064 Stuurmanskraal Mr Inus Davel (Davelshoek Trust)
160/3 Twijfelfontein Mr Graystock Rudolf Naude
17071/4 Tigerfontein
17069/3 Bloedrivier
Mr Robert Stannard 17069/2 Bloedrivier
17069/4 Bloedrivier
17069/10 Bloedrivier
78/2 Blaauwstroom
Blaauwstroom Trust 78/3 Blaauwstroom
159/1 Vryheid
107/2 Vergenoegd Mr Johannes Davel
107/3 Vergenoegd
122/RE Weltevreden Ms Susanna Margaretha Hunter
122/2 Weltevreden Government of South Africa
123/7 Holdkrans
152/12 Groothoek Mr Hennie Boshoff (LAM Boerdery Trust)
173/3 Waaihoek
Waaihoek Community Trust 173/4 Waaihoek
173/5 Waaihoek
173/12 Waaihoek
173/13 Waaihoek Mr Job Dube
160/1 Twijfelfontein Mr Greyling
160/2 Twijfelfontein
17274/RE Gumtree Grove
122/1 Weltevreden
Mr Willem Adriaan Human 177/RE Goede Hoop
177/1 Goede Hoop
177/2 Goede Hoop Mr Moses Mahlinza
177/7 Goede Hoop
177/5 Goede Hoop Mr Craig de Oliviera (Counterpoint Trading 402 BK)
177/8 Goede Hoop Mr William Peter Fogarty
180/2 Goedeloof Mr Nhlanhla Nhleko (Masibambani Communal Land)
150/RE Spartelspruit Mr Koot Smit (Spartelspruit Trust)
182/RE Weltevreden Mr Koos Uys (Jurust EDMS BPK Pty Ltd)
424/1 Gumstreespruit Mr Jan Harm Steenkamp
177/4 Goede Hoop
Mr Andries de Villiers 434 Rusthof
152/6 Groothoek
435/RE Oldeani Mr Dieter Louis Muhl
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SURROUNDING LANDOWNERS
Farm Number/Portion
Farm
Contact Person Name
83/4 Vlakplaats
Mr Andries De Villiers
83/6 Vlakplaats
124/11 Klipspruit
152/4 Groothoek
152/6 Groothoek
83/2 Vlakplaats Ms Annie Jacoba Mans
66/2 Grootvlei
Mr Lourens Greyling (Baltus Spruit Eiendomme Cc) 66/7 Grootvlei
83/5 Vlakplaats
83/9 Vlakplaats
123/2 Holdkrans
Blaauwstroom Trust
159/RE Vryheid
159/2 Vryheid
159/3 Vryheid
159/5 Vryheid
107/1 Vergenoegd
Mr Christoffel Boshoff Davel 107/4 Vergenoegd
107/7 Vergenoegd
107/8 Vergenoegd
61/2 Waterhoek Mr Cornelis Moll
152/9 Groothoek Ms Nelisiwe Elsie Dhlamini
104/5 Suikerhoek Mr Robert Tobias Oostehuizen (Gleimius Trading Cc)
104/6 Suikerhoek
150/1 Spartelspruit
Mr Gunther August Wolters Muhl 460
180/3 Goedeloof
180/4 Goedeloof
61/3 Waterhoek Ms Jacoba Alberta Johanna Taljard
124/6 Klipspruit Mr Jan Harm Steenkamp
53/4 Wydgelegen Mr Johannes Adam Wilken
107/5 Vergenoegd
Mr Johannes Davel 107/6 Vergenoegd
6/1 Hammar
6/2 Hammar
83/3 Vlakplaats
Mr Hennie Boshoff (Lam Boerdery Trust) 83/10 Vlakplaats
83/11 Vlakplaats
53/2 Wydgelegen Mr Willy Leeuw (Leeuw Mining & Exploration Pty Ltd)
66/RE Grootvlei Mr Moshaedi Hendry Motloung
124/8 Klipspruit
Mr Levy Mpheni Ngcobo (Brothers Property Holdings KZN CC) 124/9 Klipspruit
173/10 Waaihoek
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66/10 Grootvlei Mr Nicolaas Smuts
66/16 Grootvlei
124/12 Klipspruit Mr Pieter Breytenbach
86/1 Zoetmelksrivier Ms Senta Klingenberg
83/8 Vlakplaats Mr TL Mnguni (Siyanqobaazwelethu Community Trust)
124/RE Klipspruit Mr Thomas Frederick Klopper
61/1 Waterhoek Vidroforte Africa Pty Ltd
61/8 Waterhoek N&H Boerdery Trust
123/RE Holdkrans Mr Willem Adriaan Human
123/4 Holdkrans
78/1 Blaauwstroom Mr Petrus Jacobus Claassen (Winlake Trading 22 Pty Ltd)
123/1 Oudehoutdraai
17069/5 Mr Josef Johannes Benjamin Greyling
159/4 Vryheid Steftraco BK
160/3 Twijfelfontein Mr Graystock Rudolf Naude
17071/3 Tigerfontein
173/8 Waaihoek Mr Inus Davel (Davelshoek Trust)
173/14 Waaihoek Pinelands Stud Pty Ltd
180/5 Goedeloof
Mr Pieter Carel Hanekom
181/RE Lijnspruit
Mr Erasmus Jacobus Petrus Smit 181/4 Lijnspruit
181/8 Lijnspruit
17069/1 Bloedrivier
Mr Robert Stannard 17069/6 Bloedrivier
17069/7 Bloedrivier
17069/8 Bloedrivier
17071/RE Tigerfontein Mr Leonhard Daniel Malan
17071/1 Tigerfontein Ms Cornelia Albertha Johanna Hatting
17071/2 Tigerfontein
REGISTERED I&APs
Stakeholder Name
Endangered Wildlife Trust Mr Bradley Gibbons
Leads 2 Business Ms Bianca Torré
Ngcobo Bros. Property Holdings C.C Mr G Usher
Ngcobo Bros. Property Holdings C.C Mr LM Ngcobo
Independent Mrs AJ Mans
McCarthy Cruywagen Attorneys Mr Dennis McCarthy
Naudé Boerdery Mr GR Naudé
Richardson & Peplow Environmental Ms Kate Richardson
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14.3 Appendix C: Impact Assessment Tables Table 14-1. General Impacts Associated with the WEF
ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF IMPACT
SPATIAL SCALE (EXTENT)
TEMPORAL SCALE (DURATION)
CERTAINTY SCALE (LIKELIHOOD)
SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL SCALE
SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION
MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION
PLANNING & DESIGN PHASE
GENERAL IMPACTS
Traffic & Transport
Inadequate planning for the transportation of turbine parts and specialist construction equipment to the site by long and/or slow moving vehicles could cause traffic congestion, especially if temporary road closures are required.
DIRECT Regional Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Project planning must include a plan for traffic control that will be implemented, especially during the construction phase of the development. Consultation with the local Road Traffic Unit in this regard should be done early in the planning phase. The necessary road traffic permits should be obtained for transporting parts, containers, materials and construction equipment to the site.
LOW
The integrity of existing highway infrastructure such as bridges and barriers may be compromised by the heavy vehicle traffic delivering components to the site.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Regional Short-term Possible Slight LOW • Careful planning of the routes taken by heavy vehicles must highlight areas of road that may need to be upgraded in order to accommodate these vehicles. Once identified, these areas must be upgraded if necessary.
LOW
Inappropriate planning for road construction can increase the risk of surface water run-off, loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, etc.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Medium-term Possible Severe HIGH • It is recommended that strip access roads should be used to maintain ecosystem integrity as much as possible. Strip roads should not be tarred. Limit the number of strip roads on site to minimise their overall footprint.
LOW
Road modifications which may be necessary to allow for the delivery of components to site via heavy vehicles could have long lasting traffic benefits.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Regional Long-term Probable Slightly beneficial LOW POSITIVE
• If roads are upgraded, this should improve the conditions for all users of the roads.
LOW POSITIVE
Storage of hazardous substances
Inappropriate planning for the storage of hazardous substances such as diesel, paint, pesticides, etc, tools and equipment used on site could lead to surface and ground water pollution e.g. due to oil leaks, spillage of diesel etc. In addition, these hazardous substances could be washed off into nearby drainage lines. The mixing of cement on site could result in ground water contamination from compounds in the cement. In addition, a large number of cement mixing stations on site could increase the presence of impermeable areas of hard standing which in turn could increase rates of run-off and thereby increasing the risk of localized flooding, soil erosion, silting, gullies, etc.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised/ Nearby river and
water systems
Short-term Possible Moderate MODERATE • All hazardous substances such as paints, diesel and cement must be stored in a bunded area with an impermeable surface beneath them.
• Cement mixing must be conducted at a single location which should be centrally located, where practical.
LOW
Environmental Legal and Policy
Compliance
Failure to adhere to existing policies and legal obligations could lead to the project conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in lack of institutional support for the project, overall project failure and undue disturbance to the natural
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Municipal Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • Ensure that all relevant legislation and policy is consulted and further ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy.
• These should include (but not restricted to): o Local and District Spatial Development
Frameworks
LOW
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environment. o KwaZulu-Natal Biodiversity Conservation Plan
o Local Municipal bylaws • In addition, planning for the construction and
operation of the proposed energy facility should consider available best practice guidelines.
Stormwater Management and Erosion
The introduction of roads and impermeable areas of hard standing could increase rates of run-off and therefore the risk of localised flooding.
INDIRECT Localised/ Nearby river and
water systems
Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • Structures must be located at least 32 m away from identified drainage lines.
• A Stormwater Management Plan must be designed and implemented to ensure maximum water seepage at the source of water flow.
• The plan must also include management mitigation measures for water pollution, waste water management and the management of surface erosion e.g. by considering the applicability of contouring, etc.
LOW
Inappropriate storm water management will lead to damage, pollution and potential flooding of the site.
DIRECT Study Area Medium-term Possible Severe HIGH • A stormwater management plan must be developed and implemented
LOW
Management of general waste
Inappropriate planning for management and disposal of waste e.g. storage disposal could result in surface and ground water contamination.
DIRECT INDIRECT
CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • Develop and implement a waste management plan for handling on site waste.
• Designate an appropriate area where waste can be stored before disposal.
LOW
Electromagnetic Interference
(EMI)
WEFs can cause television, radio and microwave interference by blocking and / or causing part of the signal to be delayed.
DIRECT Regional Long-term Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE • Accurate siting of wind turbines in the planning and design phase should reduce these effects.
• If complaints are received from surrounding landowners regarding this issue, the developer must investigate and mitigate these issues to the best of their abilities.
LOW
Vegetation Clearing
Risk of designing long and wide access roads that would require wide scale vegetation stripping on site thereby compromising local biodiversity.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • It is recommended that internal roads should comprise of strip roads to maintain ecosystem integrity as much as possible.
• Strip roads should not be tarred.
LOW
Risk that digging the trenches for an underground connecting cables could adversely affect surface vegetation and damage soil structure.
DIRECT Study Area Medium-term Probable Severe HIGH • Route determination for the underground connecting cables should consider the shortest possible routes.
• The size of the underground trenches for the connecting cables must be limited to the minimum acceptable dimensions appropriate for laying down the cables.
MODERATE
Landscape and Visual
Design and siting of the wind turbines could result in an alteration of the landscape character and sense of place
DIRECT Localised Long-term Probable Severe HIGH • The facility should be designed to minimise visual intrusion.
HIGH
Shadow Flicker The movement of the turbine blades across the direction of sunlight causes a phenomenon called shadow flicker, which can result in health problems if people are regularly exposed to it.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • The layout of wind turbines should be designed in order to minimize the effects of shadow flicker on surrounding landowners.
• Recommendations made by the visual impact assessor with regard to the identification of landowners who may be within range of the shadow flicker caused by the turbines, should be implemented.
• If surrounding landowners complain of shadow flicker-related issues, these must be investigated and mitigated to the best of the developers’ ability.
LOW
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ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF IMPACT
SPATIAL SCALE (EXTENT)
TEMPORAL SCALE (DURATION)
CERTAINTY SCALE (LIKELIHOOD)
SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL SCALE
SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION
MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
GENERAL IMPACTS
Socio-economic During construction, the development could have a beneficial local economic effect, supporting companies manufacturing turbine parts and providing work for construction and haulage contractors, for example.
DIRECT INDIRECT
CUMULATIVE
Municipal Short-term Possible Slightly Beneficial LOW POSITIVE
• Local companies should be given the opportunity to tender for the provision of locally-sourced materials, labour, plant, transport, etc.
LOW POSITIVE
The construction phase will create temporary jobs for local communities. It will thereby have positive impacts by creating short term employment within the affected communities.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study Area Short-term Probable Beneficial MODERATE POSITIVE
• No mitigation required MODERATE POSITIVE
Visual intrusion Visual disturbance of the landscape during construction will be caused by the construction activity, and the presence and use of very large machinery.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Slight LOW • It is not practical to mitigate the visual intrusion of construction vehicles and construction equipment on site.
LOW
Nuisance dust Dust is likely to be a potential nuisance due to the construction activities.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Moderately Severe LOW • Fugitive/nuisance dust could be reduced by implementing the following: · o Damping down of un-surfaced and un-
vegetated areas; o Retention of vegetation where possible;
o Excavations and other clearing activities
must only be done during agreed working times and permitting weather conditions to avoid drifting of sand and dust into neighbouring areas;
o A speed limit of 30km/h must not be exceeded on dirt roads;
• Any complaints or claims emanating from the lack of dust control should be attended to immediately by the Contractor.
LOW
Construction camp
Unnecessary disturbance of vegetation due to sprawl of campsite can cause loss of biodiversity.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • The ECO must assist in the siting of structures and supervise any bush clearing (although this is not anticipated) for the construction camp. Construction camp should be fenced to avoid sprawl.
LOW
Vegetation clearing
Unnecessary disturbance of vegetation from construction of ancillary structures i.e. control building, toilet facilities, etc. can cause loss of biodiversity.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Vegetation clearing must be restricted to the identified sites for the construction camp, cement mixing areas, ancillary infrastructure lay down areas, underground power cable route, control cabin and other activities on site that have been identified as necessary for development of the project.
• There must be no unnecessary disturbance of natural vegetation. Where unavoidable, such disturbed areas must be rehabilitated.
LOW
Access roads Unnecessary disturbance of habitats during road construction could cause loss of biodiversity.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Construction vehicles and machinery should only access the site using existing tarred roads to minimise disturbance on the receiving environment.
LOW
Alien and invasive plants
Unnecessary disturbance of the areas within the site could increase the risk of spreading noxious weeds, invasive and alien plants.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Short-term Possible Severe HIGH • Alien plants should be removed from the site through appropriate methods e.g. hand pulling, chemical, cutting, etc. under supervision from the ECO.
• Disturbed areas must be rehabilitated.
MODERATE
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Fire Risk of runaway fires from cooking on the construction camp might lead to the burning of surrounding vegetation.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Severe VERY HIGH • There should be no burning of construction waste or debris onsite.
MODERATE
Noise Adverse noise effects will occur during the construction of the development, e.g. from the movement of heavy goods vehicles and the use of heavy duty construction equipment for excavation of foundations, vegetation stripping, etc.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE • Machinery that causes noise must only be operated at appropriate times (during the day and at normal working hours).
LOW
Stormwater management
Sediment is likely to be created during construction. This could be washed off into the nearby drainage line e.g. during the excavation of foundations, the laying of access roads within the site, digging of cable runs and soil stripping and stockpiling to create foundations and temporary areas of hard-standing, such as the construction camp.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • The recommendations of the stormwater management plan must be implemented to avoid soil erosion and siltation of drainage line.
LOW
Degradation of drainage lines
from earthworks
Unplanned construction activities or earthworks that occur close to onsite drainage lines could cause adverse impacts such as soil erosion, siltation, and blockage of the drainage line.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Severe HIGH • There must be no earthworks within 32 m of the drainage lines so as to avoid contamination of water sources.
LOW
Soil erosion Soil could wash out of bare slopes before natural regeneration has established.
DIRECT Study Area Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Vegetation must be retained where possible to avoid soil erosion.
• If slopes are cleared during construction, these must be rehabilitated as soon as possible to minimize soil erosion losses.
LOW
Management of general waste
Littering by construction workers could cause surface and ground water pollution.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study Area Long-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Littering must be avoided and litter bins must be made available at various strategic points on site. Refuse from the construction site must be collected on a regular basis and deposited at an appropriate landfill.
LOW
Hazardous substances
Onsite maintenance of construction vehicles/machinery and equipment could result in oil, diesel and other hazardous chemicals contaminating surface and ground water. Surface and ground water pollution could arise from the spillage or leaking of diesel, lubricants and cement during construction activities.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study Area Long-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • The storage of fuels and hazardous materials must be located away from sensitive water resources.
• All hazardous substances (e.g. diesel, oil drums, etc.) must be stored in a bunded area.
• The recommendations of the stormwater management plan must be implemented during construction.
LOW
Management of construction
waste
Waste from construction activities e.g. excess concrete and cement mixture, empty paint containers, oil containers, etc, could cause pollution of ground and surface water when they come into contact with run-off water.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study Area Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • An environmental management programme (EMPr) incorporating waste management issues during the construction phase of the project must be developed and implemented.
• All excess waste must be disposed of at an appropriately licensed landfill site.
• All construction materials must be stored in a central and secure location with controlled access with an appropriate impermeable surface.
• The recommendations of the Stormwater Management Plan must be implemented to mitigate the impacts of run-off water on pollution.
LOW
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ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF IMPACT
SPATIAL SCALE (EXTENT)
TEMPORAL SCALE (DURATION)
CERTAINTY SCALE (LIKELIHOOD)
SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL SCALE
SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION
MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION
OPERATIONS PHASE
GENERAL IMPACTS
Ecology The maintenance of the WEF could cause disturbance to local wildlife, especially breeding birds.
INDIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Slight LOW • Any maintenance staff must remain on designated roads and paths within the site., where possible
• The unnecessary disturbance of existing bush/forest patches must be avoided.
LOW
Air quality Climate change
The electricity generated by the development will displace some of that produced by fossil fuel based forms of electricity generation. The scheme, over its lifetime, will therefore avoid the production of a significant amount of CO2, SO2 and NO2 that would otherwise be emitted to the atmosphere.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
International Long-term Definite Highly Beneficial VERY HIGH POSITIVE
• Enhance this impact by promoting the use of renewable energy locally.
VERY HIGH POSITIVE
Lighting The facility may be lit at night during operation. This could have adverse impacts on the landscape character and sense of place due to long-term visibility of land.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Probable Severe HIGH • Night lighting impacts could be reduced by using shaded lighting and using lights at low levels.
LOW
Architecture of ancillary
infrastructure
Control buildings, toilet facilities and other ancillary infrastructure could cause negative visual intrusion if allowed to fall into disrepair and not maintained properly.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Probable Moderate MODERATE • All project structures and buildings visible to the public must be maintained.
LOW
Hazardous chemical storage
Inappropriate storage of chemical, herbicides, diesel and other hazardous substances on site could result in soil and water contamination and also pose a high accident danger risk.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH • All hazardous substances must be stored in appropriately bunded locations.
MODERATE
Operating equipment
Noise could be generated by transformers from the process of power conversion. The operation of auxiliary equipment needed to cool the transformers, including cooling fans and oil pumps could also generate some noise.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE • Lower noise emission levels from inverters and transformers can be achieved by housing them in enclosed structures.
LOW
Increased stormwater run-
off
Failure to maintain the storm water system could increase the risk of surface water damage to the landscape and vegetation from increased rates of run-off and therefore the risk of localised flooding and increased sheet erosion downstream due to the presence of roads and impermeable areas of hard standing.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Recommendations of the Stormwater Management Plan must be implemented.
LOW
Waste management
There could be littering by maintenance workers and security personnel on site.
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • A waste management plan incorporating recycling and waste minimisation must be implemented. Develop and implement a worker education plan for waste management in the work environment.
LOW
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ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF IMPACT
SPATIAL SCALE (EXTENT)
TEMPORAL SCALE (DURATION)
CERTAINTY SCALE (LIKELIHOOD)
SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL SCALE
SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION
MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION
DECOMMISSIONING PHASE
GENERAL IMPACTS
Visual Intrusion Visual disturbance of the landscape during decommissioning will be caused by the presence and use of very large machinery.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Slight LOW • It is not practical to mitigate the visual intrusion of decommissioning vehicles and decommissioning equipment on site.
LOW
Ecology Unnecessary disturbance of vegetation from the decommissioning of ancillary structures i.e. control building, toilet facilities, etc.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE • Deconstruction vehicles and machinery should make use of existing infrastructure such as roads as far as possible to minimise disturbance on the receiving environment.
LOW
Risk of spreading noxious weeds, invasive and alien plants due to the increased movement of human traffic and machinery during decommissioning.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Short-term Probable Moderately Severe HIGH • All bare land must be rehabilitated after decommissioning.
LOW
Noise sensitive receptors
Adverse noise effects could potentially occur during the decommissioning of the WEF, for example from the movement of heavy goods vehicles.
DIRECT Localised Short term Probable Moderately severe MODERATE • Machinery that causes noise must only be operated at appropriate times (during the day and at normal working hours).
LOW
Any noise-related impacts caused by the operation of the facility will cease to be of importance.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Definite Beneficial LOW POSITIVE
• No mitigation required LOW POSITIVE
Socio-economic impacts
During decommissioning, the development could have a beneficial local economic effect by providing temporary jobs for local communities.
INDIRECT Localised Short-term Definite Beneficial LOW POSITIVE
• No mitigation required LOW POSITIVE
Pollution Littering by construction workers could cause surface and ground water pollution.
DIRECT Study Area Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Littering must be avoided and litter bins should be made available at various strategic points on site. Refuse from the construction site should be collected on a regular basis and deposited at an appropriate landfill.
LOW
Onsite maintenance of construction vehicles/machinery and equipment could result in oil, diesel and other hazardous chemicals contaminating surface and ground water. Surface and ground water pollution could arise from the spillage or leaking of diesel, lubricants and cement during construction activities.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study Area Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • No storage of fuels and hazardous materials should be permitted near sensitive water resources. All hazardous substances (e.g. diesel, oil drums, etc.) to be stored in a bunded area.
LOW
Dust Dust is likely to be a potential nuisance due to the decommissioning activities.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Probable Slight LOW • Fugitive/nuisance dust could be implemented through the following: o Damping down of un-surfaced and un-
vegetated areas; o Retention of vegetation where possible;
Demolitions and other clearing activities must only be done during agreed working times and permitting weather conditions to avoid drifting of sand and dust into neighbouring areas;
o A speed limit of 30km/h must not be exceeded on dirt roads.
• Any complaints or claims emanating from the lack of dust control must be attended to immediately by the Contractor.
LOW
Traffic & Transport
A high number of heavy vehicle movements will occur during the decommissioning phase. This may have a detrimental effect on sensitive receptors, especially on existing vegetation.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • Construction vehicles and machinery should make use of existing infrastructure such as roads as far as possible to minimise disturbance on the receiving environment. There must be no unnecessary disturbance of
LOW
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extant vegetation.
Soil erosion After the removal of all wind turbine related structures, the disturbed soils could become exposed, unstable and prone to erosion.
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE • After the removal of all wind turbine-related structures, the disturbed soils must be re-vegetated to avoid unnecessary soil erosion.
LOW
Land-use Land previously unavailable for certain types of land use will now be available for those uses.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Moderately Positive LOW POSITIVE • No mitigation necessary LOW POSITIVE
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Table 14-2. Specialist Impacts Associated with the WEF ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF
IMPACT SPATIAL SCALE
(EXTENT) TEMPORAL SCALE
(DURATION) CERTAINTY SCALE
(LIKELIHOOD) SEVERITY /
BENEFICIAL SCALE SIGNIFICANCE
PRE-MITIGATION MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-
MITIGATION
PLANNING & DESIGN PHASE
AGRICULTURE & SOILS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Loss of agricultural land
The loss of large amounts of agricultural land due to inadequate planning could have negative impacts on the agricultural potential of the farms involved in the development.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The specialist report has informed the layout to ensure that loss of agricultural land is kept to a minimum
LOW
ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Loss of indigenous vegetation: WEF
The construction of turbine platforms could result in the clearance of approximately 11ha of indigenous vegetation, resulting in permanent loss
DIRECT Localised Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE During the Planning and Design Phase, the appointed ECO must survey the site, especially during spring and summer, in order to locate protected geophytic plant species that may need to be transplanted to an appropriate nursery, where deemed viable
Ensure during the Planning and Design phase that turbine platforms and access roads located in sensitive areas or the sensitivity buffers, are either moved to a more appropriate location or otherwise be omitted from the layout
The construction of access road 1 is not a preferred route and should be considered with caution
Route access roads to specifically avoid sensitive areas, as much as possible
LOW
Turbine construction within the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor, will result in the loss of indigenous vegetation forming part of the corridor, which could consequently deter faunal species from utilising it for the intended purpose of the corridor
DIRECT Project Level Short-term Unsure Moderate MODERATE MODERATE
The construction of access road 1 within the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor, will result in the loss of indigenous vegetation forming part of the corridor, which could consequently deter faunal species from utilising it for the intended purpose of the corridor
DIRECT Project Level Short-term Unsure Moderate MODERATE LOW
The construction of access roads to turbines will result in the clearance of approximately 24ha, resulting in permanent loss
DIRECT Project Level Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE LOW
Disturbance of sensitive areas:
WEF
Turbines located in areas identified as sensitive (including buffer zones) could result in habitat disturbance/loss of various niche specific species, with specific reference to rocky outcrops for lizards and indigenous forest patches for small mammals
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Severe HIGH LOW
Routing access roads through sensitive areas or the demarcated sensitivity buffers could result in habitat disturbance/loss of various niche specific species, with specific reference to rocky outcrops for lizards and indigenous forest patches for small mammals.
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Severe HIGH LOW
Loss of indigenous vegetation: Powerline
Pylon installation for above-ground powerlines could result in the permanent loss of indigenous vegetation
DIRECT Localised Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE Ensure during the Planning and Design Phase that the powerline route is placed in previously impacted areas, where possible
Powerline alternative 1 an alternative route is proposed
LOW
Powerline pylons located in areas identified as sensitive (including
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Severe HIGH Ensure during the Planning and Design phase that pylons are placed in low sensitivity areas or
LOW
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buffer zones) could result in habitat disturbance/ loss of various niche specific species, with specific reference to rocky outcrops for lizards and indigenous forest patches for small mammals
previously impacted areas Ensure during the Planning and Design Phase
that pylons located in sensitive areas or the sensitivity buffers, are either moved to a more appropriate location or otherwise be omitted from the layout
Construction within a National
Freshwater Ecosystem Priority
Area (NFEPA)
The route proposed for powerline route 2 travels through a NFEPA wetland, could result in permanent loss of wetland habitat which provide a niche specific habitat to various amphibian species (Refer to Wetland Impact Assessment)
INDIRECT Localised Long-term Probable Severe HIGH This is not a preferred route and should be considered with caution
LOW
Loss of indigenous vegetation: Additional
infrastructure
The layout design of the contractors site office and access roads into the WEF could result in the permanent loss of at least 1 ha of indigenous vegetation
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderate MODERATE Ensure during the Planning and Design Phase that the contractors office and access roads are placed in previously impacted areas, where possible
The routing of access roads should make use of existing roads as much as possible
Prior to finalising the route of the access road, the appointed ECO must ensure that where possible the route follows existing roads and tracks and avoid sensitive areas. The ECO should recommend a route change, if deemed necessary
LOW
Construction within a National
Freshwater Ecosystem Priority
Area (NFEPA): Additional
infrastructure
The construction of access route 3 through a wetland defined as a NFEPA will result in the habitat destruction of amphibian populations
DIRECT Localised Permanent Definite Severe HIGH This is not a preferred route and should be considered with caution
LOW
Construction of an access road through a
protected area
The construction of access route 3 through a protected area
CUMULATIVE Localised Permanent Possible Moderate MODERATE This is not a preferred route and should be considered with caution
LOW
WETLAND IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Road upgrade crossing a
watercourse
Disturbance of aquatic habitats due to the position and installation of turbine platforms and associated infrastructure such as access roads and power lines.
DIRECT Regional Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The proposed layout should keep the number of watercourse crossings of roads to a minimum.
LOW
Turbine construction
within the 100m wetland buffer
Disturbance of aquatic habitats due to the position and installation of turbine platforms and associated infrastructure within the 100m No-go Zone for wetlands. The current layout places turbines 7, 74 and 77 within the 100m No-go buffer for wetlands. This would have negative impacts on the integrity of the wetland system.
DIRECT Regional Long-term Possible Severe HIGH It is recommended that these turbines be relocated outside the requisite buffers.
LOW
Turbine construction
within the 500m wetland buffer
Disturbance of aquatic habitats due to the position and installation of turbine platforms and associated infrastructure within the 500m buffer for wetlands. The current layout places 35 turbines
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Regional Long-term Possible Severe HIGH It is recommended that these turbines have construction footprints aligned away from wetlands as far as possible. Construction on hillslopes will require management of runoff and sedimentation to reduce the impact on surrounding wetlands.
LOW
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within the 500m buffer for wetlands. Construction activities would have the potential to impact the hydrological functioning of the wetlands.
Loss of species of special concern due to poor layout planning and design of appropriate management plans to minimise impact.
DIRECT Project area Long-term Possible Severe HIGH LOW
Turbine construction
within the 50m watercourse
buffers
Loss of riparian vegetation due to construction within 50m of a watercourse.
DIRECT Project area Long-term Possible Severe HIGH It is recommended that these turbines have construction footprints aligned away from the watercourse to minimise erosion and sedimentation.
LOW
Powerline construction
within the wetland and watercourse
buffers
Inappropriate power cable and road routes may transect aquatic habitats, damaging vegetation and potentially leading to erosion.
DIRECT Project area Long-term Possible Severe HIGH Ecologically important and sensitive areas should be avoided, in addition: o Access roads and power cable routes must
deviate, avoid or circumvent around highly sensitive habitats.
o Long term access roads should incorporate the use of an eco-friendly specialised design to avoid issues of soil erosion.
MODERATE
Erosion due to removal of vegetation
The surrounding environment exhibits evidence of vulnerability to soil erosion, especially in the transitional section between the low lying areas and the high lying plateau. Construction and operation activities may result in soil destabilisation and contribute towards further significant soil erosion.
CUMULATIVE Regional Long-term Possible Severe HIGH A Stormwater Management Plan must be developed prior to the commencement of the construction phase. Turbine platforms and access road routes must be designed with significant soil stabilisation and stormwater retention measures.
Access road routes and powerline alternatives must be planned with high erosion potential in mind.
MODERATE
AVIFAUNAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Loss of priority avifaunal due to
incorrect placement of
turbines
The loss of avifaunal species due to placement of turbines in highly sensitive areas could have severe negative effects on the avifaunal population.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The specialist report has informed the layout to ensure that loss of avifaunal is mitigated through the correct placement of turbines.
No turbines occur in highly sensitive areas
LOW
BAT IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Loss of bat species due to incorrect
placement of turbines
The loss of bats species due to placement of turbines in highly sensitive areas could have severe negative effects on the bat population.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Long-term Regional Probable Severe HIGH Turbines in high sensitivity areas must be removed from the final layout.
Turbines within the medium sensitivity areas must follow a curtailment schedule developed by the bat specialist.
MODERATE
PALEONTOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Damaging of fossils due to
incorrect placement of
turbines
The damage of fossils due to placement of turbines in highly sensitive areas could have negative implications.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The specialist report has informed the layout to ensure that damage to fossil rich sediments is mitigated through the correct placement of turbines.
No turbines occur in highly sensitive areas
LOW
HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Damaging of heritage artefacts
to incorrect placement of
turbines
The damage of heritage features / artefacts due to placement of turbines in highly sensitive areas could have negative implications.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The specialist report has informed the layout to ensure that damage to heritage features / artefacts is mitigated through the correct placement of turbines.
No turbines occur in highly sensitive areas
LOW
SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Inadequate social involvement
Inadequate communication throughout the WEF design and planning phase could have negative
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The public participation process has been an on-going process designed to include, inform and educate individuals who may be impacted by
LOW
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social and economic implications. the WEF development.
VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Change in scenery in the WEF area
The landscape features will be altered by the WEF, this may negatively impact individual perceptions in term of sense of place.
DIRECT
Localised Long-term Possible Severe MODERATE No mitigation possible. MODERATE
TOURISM IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Ecotourism Ecotourism in the area may be negatively / positively impacted by the WEF development through the introduction of manmade features to the natural environment.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Moderate MODERATE All local tourism facilities must be made aware of the WEF through the public participation process in order to address any concerns raised by relevant stakeholders.
MODERATE (Can be both negative and
positive depending on the individual)
Heritage tourism The development of the WEF within close proximity of the battlefields memorial sites could negatively affect tourism related to these memorials.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Moderate MODERATE The Heritage Specialist must be consulted during the planning and design phase to ensure that appropriate buffers are set up around battlefield sites.
LOW
NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Noise generated by turbines close
to sensitive receptors
The noise generated by turbines can impact people living within 500m of an individual turbine.
DIRECT
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH The specialist report has informed the layout to ensure that turbines do not occur within 500m of households.
No turbines occur in highly sensitive areas
LOW
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ISSUE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT NATURE OF IMPACT
SPATIAL SCALE (EXTENT)
TEMPORAL SCALE (DURATION)
CERTAINTY SCALE (LIKELIHOOD)
SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL SCALE
SIGNIFICANCE PRE-MITIGATION
MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE POST-MITIGATION
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
AGRICULTURE & SOILS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Management of hazardous chemicals
Soil contamination and a loss of fertile soils as a result of hazardous chemical spills.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Study area Long-term Probable Severe MODERATE Machinery must be properly maintained to keep oil leaks in check.
If a spill occurs on a permeable surface (e.g. Soil), a spill kit must be used to immediately reduce the potential spread of the spill.
If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill must be contained using oil absorbent materials.
Contaminated remediation materials must be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of hazardous chemicals to the environment, and stored in adequate containers until appropriate disposal in a licenced landfill site.
LOW
Increased risk of fires from
construction activities
Potential loss of crops, grazing and livestock as a result of fires originating from the construction site.
INDIRECT Regional Long-term Probable Very Severe HIGH Ensure that all personnel are aware of the fire risk and the need to extinguish cigarettes before disposal, in appropriate waste disposal containers.
Smoking will only be allowed in demarcated areas with easy access to fire-fighting equipment.
Welding and other construction activities requiring open flames shall be done in a designated area containing fire-fighting equipment.
The risk of fire is highest in the late summer and autumn months, during high wind velocities and dry periods. To avoid and manage fire risk the following steps should be implemented: o Have on site fire-fighting equipment and
ensure that all personnel are educated how to use it and procedures to be followed in the event of a fire.
o Identify the relevant authorities and structures responsible for fighting fires in the area and shall liaise with them regarding procedures should a fire commence.
o Ensure that all the necessary telephone numbers etc. are posted at conspicuous and relevant locations in the event of an emergency.
No open fires shall be allowed on site for the purpose of cooking or warmth. Cooking fires must only be lit in designated cooking areas.
The contractor shall take all reasonable steps to prevent the accidental occurrence or spread of fire.
The contractor shall appoint a fire officer who shall be responsible for ensuring immediate and appropriate action in the event of a fire.
The contractor shall ensure that all site personnel are aware of the procedure to be followed in the event of a fire. The appointed fire officer shall notify the Fire and Emergency
LOW
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Services in the event of a fire and shall not delay doing so until such time as the fire is beyond his / her control.
The contractor shall ensure that there is basic fire-fighting equipment on site at all times. This equipment shall include fire extinguishers and beaters.
Any work that requires the use of fire may only take place within designated areas. Fire-fighting equipment shall be available in these areas.
The contractor shall ensure that the correct emergency call numbers for the nearest fire department and the local Farmers Association Fire Marshall are easily accessible at all times, and that in the event that a fire becomes unmanageable, these people are notified as a matter of urgency.
Soil rehabilitation management
Incorrect or insufficient rehabilitation of soil will result in a decrease of agricultural viability/potential especially in Highland Sourveld.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Medium-term May occur Moderate MODERATE Develop and implement a Rehabilitation and Monitoring Plan to monitor rehabilitated areas.
Ensure that topsoil does not get buried by aluminium rich subsoil in Highland Sourveld areas. Failure to comply will result in topsoil sterilisation.
Implement measures such as wind-breaks, swales and watering to aid the initial grown of primary vegetation.
Fertile topsoil must not be stockpiled for periods exceeding 12 months or exceeding 2m in height.
Topsoil may be supplemented with an indigenous seed mix.
LOW
ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Loss of vegetation during
construction
The activity during construction of turbine platforms, internal turbine and WEF access roads and pylons for the powerlines could result in the unnecessary loss of habitat as a result of uncontrolled vegetation clearing, equivalent to around 35ha of indigenous grassland, resulting in permanent loss
DIRECT Localised Permanent Definite Moderately Severe MODERATE During the Construction Phase, construction vehicles must make use of existing farm tracks and once constructed, access roads
During the Construction Phase, ensure that roads and turbines are developed in areas of low sensitivity
During the Construction Phase, ensure that roads on slopes incorporate a storm water diversion
During the Construction Phase, where possible, reserve and store natural vegetation cover for re-vegetation post construction
During the Construction Phase, the ECO must ensure the protected plant populations identified during the Planning and Design Phase are relocated to appropriate locations
In the unlikely event that a protected tree species needs to be removed during construction, a permit to do so must be attained from DAFF
Where possible construction should be limited to previously impacted areas
During the Construction Phase, development should where possible be avoided in sensitive areas that may increase the edge effect of the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor
LOW
Uncontrolled construction activity in the area, could lead to plant community degradation, resulting in the permanent loss of special habitats.
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH LOW
Loss of vegetation within a Macro-
Ecological Corridor
Turbine platforms and turbine access road construction within the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor, will result in the permanent loss of indigenous vegetation forming part of the corridor, which could consequently deter faunal species from utilising it for the intended purpose
CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE LOW
The construction of WEF proposed access road, route 3 falls within the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor. If the route is considered, construction activities could result in
CUMULATIVE Localised Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE LOW
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the unnecessary loss of indigenous vegetation of an area which forms part of the corridor, which may lead to the narrowing of the Northern Interior ecological corridor which could consequently deter faunal species from utilising it for the intended purpose
Powerline route 1 falls within the Northern Interior Macro-Ecological Corridor. Construction of this route will result in the permanent loss of indigenous vegetation of an area which forms part of the corridor, which may lead to the narrowing of the Northern Interior ecological corridor which could consequently deter faunal species from utilising it for the intended purpose
DIRECT Localised Long-term Definite Moderate MODERATE LOW
Loss of vegetation within a protected
area
Uncontrolled construction could result in the unnecessary loss and disturbance of vegetation in a protected areas
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Permanent Definite Severe HIGH MODERATE
Erosion and soil compaction
The manoeuvring of construction vehicles within the WEF during the construction of turbine platforms, access roads and overhead powerlines may result in soil compaction, which will lead to increased soil erosion and reduced porosity
DIRECT INDIRECT
Localised Permanent Probable Moderate MODERATE During the Construction Phase, ensure proper storm water management
After construction has been completed, the soil has to be ripped to at a minimum of 30cm and initiate rehabilitation of the area
LOW
Introduction of alien invasives
Disturbance to the vegetation and soil during construction may provide an opportunity for alien invasive plant species (e.g. Acacia mearnsii - black wattle) to colonise, which will result in increased competition to indigenous plant species
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Permanent Probable Severe HIGH During the Construction Phase, an alien monitoring and eradication program must be implemented and should be monitored by the appointed ECO
LOW
Impacts on floral habitats and ecosystems
Construction run-off and erosion may result in increased edge effect pressures, alien plant invasion and erosion, resultantly leading to loss of ecosystem function
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH During the Construction Phase, ensure proper storm water management
During the construction phase, ensure that construction vehicles make use of existing farm tracks or access roads as much as possible
During the construction phase, development or any other destructive activities must be avoided in sensitive areas
Although some species of special concern may be transplanted where deemed necessary, certain species such as Orchids, do not transplant successfully, and should thus be avoided at all cost
MODERATE
Uncontrolled construction activities, (e.g. extending beyond the development footprint) can put pressure on protected plant populations/species of special concern which have been identified in the area, which may result in permanent loss
DIRECT INDIRECT
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH LOW
Disturbance to surrounding
faunal species
During the Construction Phase, vehicular movement, noise and habitat destruction may cause disturbance to resident faunal species, which could lead to a disturbance in normal behaviour
DIRECT
Project level Short-term Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE During the Construction Phase, restrict construction activities to post-dawn and pre-dusk.
Pre-construction, a small mammal specialist should be assigned to determine if any species of special concern are present in the area. From this, relevant recommendations can be made
LOW
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pertaining to either the removal or relocation of species, or whether a monitoring program should be implemented
During the Construction Phase, activities in sensitive areas, such as rocky outcrops, forests and wetlands should be avoided
During the Construction Phase, poaching of wild animals by workers may occur, resulting in population losses
INDIRECT Project level Short-term Possible Severe HIGH During the Construction Phase, all staff employed must sign a daily register
During the Construction Phase, workers must be transported to and from the site daily to regulate uncontrolled behaviour
During the Construction Phase, no residence may be set up on site
During the Construction Phase, the appointed ECO must inspect the construction area for evidence of snares
LOW
Loss of vegetation during
construction
Uncontrolled construction beyond the approved development footprint may result in inadvertent damage and could lead to permanent loss of vegetation
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH During the Construction Phase, construction activities must be demarcated and vegetation clearing and top soil removal limited to these areas
During the Construction Phase no dense vegetation that resembles indigenous Thicket or Forest may be removed. If deemed unavoidable the appointed ECO must be consulted and an assessment of the vegetation must be undertaken
During the Construction Phase, existing farm tracks or access roads must be used as much as possible
LOW
Disturbance to surrounding
wildlife and fauna
The unregulated clearing of vegetation beyond the development footprint could result in disturbance of specialised faunal habitats and associated species (e.g. wetlands, forests, rocky outcrops, dense woody vegetation and riparian zones), resulting in reduced faunal populations
DIRECT Localised Long-term Possible Severe HIGH No construction, unless authorised by an independent ECO, may be undertaken in an area demarcated in this report as a sensitive area, or its associated buffer
Construction activities must be limited to delineated development areas
LOW
Disturbance of sensitive areas
Uncontrolled construction activities and irresponsible construction of access roads and powerlines routes may contribute to erosion and degradation of water-courses and associated riparian habitats, resulting in permanent habitat degradation
DIRECT Localised and downst
ream
Short to medium term
Possible Severe HIGH Construction through water courses, only where necessary, must occur within the smallest possible construction footprint, preferably during the dry season, and must be immediately followed by erosion stabilisation and re-vegetation (Refer Wetland Impact Assessment). Applicable Water Use Licences must be obtained prior to construction.
MODERATE
WETLAND IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Physical destruction of aquatic habitat
Removal of aquatic habitats due to road construction or installation of powerlines
DIRECT Localised Long-term/ Permanent
Definite Moderately Severe HIGH Existing tracks must be used as far as possible during construction
An ECO must be appointed during the construction phase in order to ensure that unnecessary disturbance to the surrounding environment does not occur.
LOW
Unnecessary loss of species of special concern during construction activities, beyond the construction site.
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE A search and rescue must be undertaken prior to construction to ensure that any species of special concern are documented and, where possible, relocated.
LOW
Alteration of the environmental
Inadvertent or excessive damage and loss of aquatic habitats beyond the
DIRECT Localised Short-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE Construction activities must be demarcated and vegetation clearing and topsoil removal limited
LOW
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beyond the development
footprint
development footprint. to these areas.
During the construction of roads, powerlines and turbines topsoil clearing, soil storage and soil exposure may result in soil destabilisation and severe soil erosion, locally as well as downstream of construction activities.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Regional Long-term Possible Severe HIGH A Stormwater Management Plan must be implemented during the construction phase
Ensure that roads on slopes incorporate storm water retention.
LOW
Loss of wetland habitat,
ecosystem services and biodiversity
services due to road construction or installation of
powerlines.
Removal of aquatic habitats due to road construction or installation of powerlines.
DIRECT Localised Long-term - Permanent
Definite Moderately Severe HIGH Existing tracks must be used as far as possible during construction
An ECO must be appointed during the construction phase in order to ensure that unnecessary disturbance to the surrounding environment does not occur.
LOW
Unnecessary loss of species of special concern during construction activities, beyond the construction site.
DIRECT Localised Medium-term Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE The project sites must be surveyed prior to construction in order to determine whether any flora or fauna of special concern are in the aquatic environment.
LOW
AVIFAUNAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Disturbance: WEF The displacement of priority avifauna through the disturbance caused construction activities.
INDIRECT Short-term Project level Probable Moderately Severe MODERATE Construction activity should be restricted to the immediate footprint of the infrastructure, and in particular to the proposed road network. Access to the remainder of the site should be strictly controlled to prevent unnecessary disturbance of priority species.
LOW
Habitat destruction: WEF
The displacement of priority avifauna through habitat destruction during the clearing of turbine platforms in the construction phase.
DIRECT Long-term Project level Possible Moderately Severe MODERATE Removal of natural vegetation must be restricted to a minimum.
Vegetation must be rehabilitated to its former state where possible after construction.
Construction of new roads should only be considered if existing roads cannot be upgraded.
LOW
Disturbance and habitat
destruction: Powerline
The displacement of priority avifauna through the disturbance during construction activities
DIRECT Short-term Project level Possible Slight LOW Construction activity should be restricted to the immediate footprint of the infrastructure, and in particular to the power line servitude.
Access to the remainder of the site should be strictly controlled to prevent unnecessary disturbance of priority species.
LOW
BAT IMPACT ASSESSMENT
No impacts identified by specialist
PALEONTOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Destruction of underlying fossils
Underlying fossils destroyed during the excavation phase of turbines construction due to inadequate knowledge of the underlying sediments.
DIRECT Short-term Localised Possible Moderate HIGH The RE and ECO must be made aware of the possibility of the possibility of finding fossils in the Vryheid and Volksrust Formation sediments during excavation of the foundations for the turbines and other infrastructure
A professional palaeontologist must be appointed to monitor possible paleontological findings during the excavation of turbine foundations and infrastructure where turbine positions and infrastructure fall on Vryheid and Volksrust Formation sediments.
LOW
HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Houses and farm walls
All built structures older than 60 years in ages are protected by the KZNHA, damage to these structures will be detrimental to the history of the WEF area
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Permanent Localised Possible Severe HIGH All houses and walling within 50m of the turbine footprints must be demarcated before any construction activities takes place in the area.
No infrastructure may occur within 20m of walling.
The final layout must be assessed at a desktop
LOW
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level to determine whether or not onsite monitoring will be necessary during the construction phase.
Access roads must be rerouted away from farm buildings.
Late Iron Age / Historical Period
settlements
Late Iron Age and Historical Period settlements, and walling are protected by the KZNHA. Many of these sites have archaeological deposits, human graves, and other subsurface features which could be lost or damaged during the construction phase.
DIRECT Permanent Localised Possible Severe HIGH All identified sites (see specialist report) must be monitored by an archaeologist during the construction phase.
LOW
Battlefield History On-site areas which form part of the battle site history may be damaged by deviations outside of the current planned construction areas.
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Permanent Localised Possible Severe HIGH Any deviation to the development footprint must to be assessed by an archaeologist.
Relevant sites identified by said archaeologist will require a metal detector survey.
Powerline alternative 1 will require a metal detector survey by an archaeologist prior to construction.
LOW
SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Construction and upgrading of
roads
An influx of people into the Utrecht area and the expansion of hamlets could cause social pressures in terms of health.
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Short-term Localised Probable Very severe HIGH All the project employees should be subject to a health and HIV/AIDS awareness educational programme;
The proponent could initiate programmes aimed at upgrading or lending support to local facilities, e.g. clinics and police stations. Alternatively, the proponent could assist with initiating programmes aimed at encouraging voluntary workers to patrol particular areas (especially during the construction period).
Changes in crime patterns will need to be monitored in consultation with the local police and community policing forums (if these exist);
Specifically for influx management, the consultant recommends that the proponent develops transparent Human Resources (HR) policies and procedures. Such procedures could include a Preferential Procurement Policy in favour of employing the current residents in local communities within 50km of the site such as the Waaihoek Community Trust;
The proponent should develop a Recruitment and Influx Management Plan.
The proponent should develop a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) which incorporates developing collaborative management strategies for in-migration;
School programmes could be supported or initiated aimed at educating children from an early age about the effects and consequences of crime and social pathologies;
Community out-reach programmes could be supported or initiated to deal with issues related to unsafe sexual practices, sex work, teenage pregnancies and sexual violence; and
Particular roads should be fenced and access to particular road networks should be monitored and controlled. Gates should be considered for
LOW
An increase in subsistence farmers adding pressure to the surrounding landscape
INDIRECT CUMULATIVE
Short-term Study Area May Occur Severe MODERATE LOW
Easing unrestricted access to farm roads could lead to an increase in crime (such as stock theft) on farms.
DIRECT Long-term Study Area Probable Very Severe HIGH MODERATE
An increase in crime related to the influx of people in the area
INDIRECT Long-term Localised Probable Very Severe HIGH MODERATE
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particular road networks, and particular access routes should be denied for unauthorised individuals or cars.
Health and safety Risk of aircraft collisions with turbines leading to mortalities
DIRECT Long-term Study Area Unlikely Very Severe HIGH The turbines should be accurately positioned to reduce any effects of possible malfunctioning;
If complaints are received, the proponent must investigate and mitigate these issues.
The proponent must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on frequency and detail of maintenance on the turbine structures to minimise the risk of malfunction;
A Blade Monitoring System must be standard in the turbine technology used in the project;
The proponent should establish safety setbacks, and design the facility in such a manner that no buildings or populated areas lie within the possible trajectory range of turbine blades;
The developer must equip wind turbines with vibration sensors that can react to any imbalance in the rotor blades and shut down the turbine if necessary;
Regular maintenance work on the turbines is necessary; and
The facility should have warning signs to alert the public of risk.
LOW
Turbine malfunctioning (e.g. blade throw and gearbox failure) could cause safety risks to people onsite.
DIRECT Medium-term Localised Unlikely Severe LOW LOW
Electromagnetic interference leading to communication problems.
DIRECT Medium-term Localised Unlikely Slight LOW LOW
Increased traffic and related security and safety risks
INDIRECT Short-term Localised Probable Very Severe HIGH Farm-owners should always be consulted (and permission should be given by owners where relevant) prior to the construction or upgrading of any road(s);
Fencing along the access routes should be considered, as well as the construction of cattle grids at road crossings;
Gates should be erected at all the entrances to the WEF and traffic in and out of the project area monitored. This should be discussed with the affected owners;
Traffic calming measures should be implemented and speed limits need to be introduced and managed, especially during the construction period. Traffic should be controlled and regulated, and truck drivers need to be aware of safety regulations through regular briefings and workshops;
It is recommended that the proponent prepares and implements a Community Health and Safety Plan and policy. Such a plan/policy should include traffic safety rules, and would need to enforce particular guidelines, including those related to adequately fencing-off certain infrastructure. This plan should be communicated to all personnel, PAF residents and nearby affected PACs;
Particular criteria need to be developed for the recruitment of security personnel (for the construction phase);
When hiring security personnel, reasonable effort must be made to check whether the potential employees have criminal records or have been part of any other unscrupulous
LOW
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behaviour. As far as possible, security personnel should be
recruited from the surrounding communities. This should allow them to distinguish between the local population and outsiders;
Security personnel need to be properly trained in the use of force and, most importantly, appropriate conduct towards labourers, PAC members and farm-owners;
A code of conduct must be developed for the security personnel; and
All the PAC members and PAF-owners need to be informed about the roles and responsibilities of the security personnel.
Nuisance impacts (i.e. ambient noise and shadow flickering)
DIRECT Long-term Localised Probable Slight MODERATE The Noise Impact Assessment should be consulted;
The Wetland and Hydrological Impact Assessment should be consulted;
Turbines should not be constructed within 500m of households;
The proponent should establish a Grievance Mechanism to allow the PAF-owners and PAC members to lodge any complaints. Management feedback should be provided to claimants within two weeks of claimants submitting formal complaints. Section 7.3 of this report provides a general procedural outline for establishing such a mechanism.
LOW
Lightning strikes to both turbines and powerlines which could cause large fires
DIRECT Long-term Study Area May Occur Severe MODERATE An Emergency Preparedness Plan should be developed in case the project gives rise to the need for an emergency response. This plan should include management procedures for fire; (Mainstream has already indicated that they intend to join the local Fire Protection Association in order to obtain their inputs into the management plan)
The site should have warning signs to alert the public of potential fire risks;
Ensure sufficient fire breaks surrounding the WEF in accordance with the Veld Fire Act of 1998;
The proponent developer must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on frequency and detail of maintenance on the turbine structures. Particular reference is made to the regular maintenance of the gearbox and associated machinery;
Fire-fighting equipment must be kept on site and in proper order to enable immediate responses to fires on site; and
People living and working in the areas along the turbines should be made aware of the dangers of fire and should be informed of the Emergency Preparedness Plan.
LOW
Stimulation of economic growth
Employing local labour could stimulate the local economy
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Short-term Study Area May Occur Very Beneficial LOW POSITIVE
The proponent should investigate the development of a Skills Development Programme aimed at providing the following programmes to its employees and a selected number of community members:
HIGH POSITIVE
Skills training and further training opportunities could have very positive impacts on the futures on
DIRECT CUMULATIVE
Medium-term Regional May Occur Slightly Beneficial LOW POSITIVE
VERY HIGH POSITIVE