2 Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010) · 2nd Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010)...

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2nd Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(AUGUST 2010)

Basic Assessment Report in terms of the NEMA Environmental Impact Assessment

Regulations, 2010

AUGUST 2010

Kindly note that:

1. This Basic Assessment Report is the standard report required by DEA&DP in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and must be

completed for all Basic Assessment applications. 2. This report must be used in all instances for Basic Assessment applications for an environmental authorisation in terms of the

National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA), as amended, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, and/or a waste management licence in terms of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008) (NEM: WA), and/or an atmospheric emission licence in terms of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act No. 39 of 2004) (NEM: AQA).

3. This report is current as of 2 August 2010. It is the responsibility of the Applicant / EAP to ascertain whether subsequent versions

of the report have been published or produced by the competent authority.

4. The required information must be typed within the spaces provided in the report. The sizes of the spaces provided are not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. It is in the form of a table that will expand as each space is filled with typing.

5. Incomplete reports will be rejected. A rejected report may be amended and resubmitted. 6. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection. Where it is used in respect of material information

that is required by the Department for assessing the application, this may result in the rejection of the report as provided for in the regulations.

7. While the different sections of the report only provide space for provision of information related to one alternative, if more

than one feasible and reasonable alternative is considered, the relevant section must be copied and completed for each alternative.

8. Unless protected by law all information contained in, and attached to this report, will become public information on receipt

by the competent authority. If information is not submitted with this report due to such information being protected by law, the applicant and/or EAP must declare such non-disclosure and provide the reasons for the belief that the information is protected.

9. This report must be submitted to the Department at the postal address given below or by delivery thereof to the Registry

Office of the Department. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. Please note that for waste management licence applications, this report must be submitted for the attention of the Department’s Waste Management Directorate (tel: 021-483-2756 and fax: 021-483-4425) at the same postal address as the Cape Town Office Region A.

10. Unless indicated otherwise, two electronic copies (CD/DVD) and three hard copies of this report must be submitted to the

Department.

DEPARTMENTAL DETAILS

CAPE TOWN OFFICE REGION A

(Cape Winelands, City of Cape Town:

Tygerberg and Oostenberg

Administrations)

CAPE TOWN OFFICE REGION B

(West Coast, Overberg, City of Cape Town:

Helderberg, South Peninsula, Cape Town

and Blaauwberg Administrations

GEORGE OFFICE

(Eden and Central Karoo)

Department of Environmental Affairs

and Development Planning

Attention: Directorate: Integrated

Environmental Management (Region

A2)

Private Bag X 9086

Cape Town,

8000

Registry Office

1st Floor Utilitas Building

1 Dorp Street,

Cape Town

Queries should be directed to the

Directorate: Integrated Environmental

Management (Region A2) at:

Tel: (021) 483-4793 Fax: (021) 483-3633

Department of Environmental Affairs and

Development Planning


Environmental Management (Region B)

Private Bag X 9086

Cape Town,

8000

Registry Office

1st Floor Utilitas Building

1 Dorp Street,

Cape Town



Management (Region B) at:

Tel: (021) 483-4094 Fax: (021) 483-4372

Department of Environmental Affairs

and Development Planning


Environmental Management (Region

A1)

Private Bag X 6509

George,

6530

Registry Office

4th Floor, York Park Building

93 York Street

George



Management (Region A1) at:

Tel: (044) 805 8600 Fax: (044) 874-2423

View the Department’s website at http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp for the latest version of this document.

http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp

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DEPARTMENTAL REFERENCE NUMBER(S)

File reference number (EIA): 16/3/3/1/B3/28/1002/17

File reference number (Waste): N/A

File reference number (Other): N/A

PROJECT TITLE

PROPOSED REHABILITATION OF THE WESTERN BANK OF THE BERG RIVER ON THE REMAINDER OF FARM 811, PORTIONS 2 AND 36 OF FARM 811 (DIGTEBY) AND ERF 6, SIMONDIUM, WESTERN

CAPE.

DETAILS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER (EAP)

Environmental Assessment

Practitioner (EAP): Guillaume Nel Environmental Consultants (GNEC)

Contact person: Guillaume Nel

Postal address: P.O. Box 2632

Paarl Postal code: 7620

Telephone: ( 021) 870 1874 Cell: 072 1571 321

E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (021) 870 1873

EAP Qualifications

MSc En Man (PUK), B(Hons) EN Man (US), B Geography (US), Certificate- Environmental Law (PUK), Certificate – EIA (PUK), Certificate– EMS 14000 (PUK), Certificate – Air Quality Management (PUK), Certificate– Environmental Auditing (SABS). Guillaume Nel has fourteen years relevant experience as an Environmental Assessment Practitioner

EAP Registrations/Associations SAATCA Certified Environmental Auditor, No. (EMA 375) (2003). Member of IAIA: ID2406

Details of the EAP’s expertise to carry out Basic Assessment procedures

MSc En Man (PUK), B(Hons) EN Man/GIS (US), B Geography (US), Certificate- Environmental Law (PUK), Certificate – EIA (PUK), Certificate– EMS 14000 (PUK), Certificate – Air Quality Management (PUK), Certificate– Environmental Auditing (SABS). Guillaume Nel has fourteen years relevant experience as an Environmental Assessment Practitioner

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE CONTENT OF THE BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT:

1. Location

Digteby Farm (Remainder of Farm 811) is located on the western bank of the Berg River in the Western Cape Province. The farm is approximately 3.5 km south east of the town of Paarl. The boundary of the farm occurs along the outside edge of a bend/meander in the Berg River channel. Existing infrastructure along the river include a house, outbuildings, a perimeter fence and a tarred access road. The access road and fence along the river bank are threatened by erosion. The proposed site is managed by The Kevin Maree Trust.

Table 1 SG Codes of Applicable Cadastral Land Parcels

Applicable Cadastral Land Parcel

SG Code

Remainder of Farm 811 C05500000000081100000

Portion 2 of Farm 811 C05500000000081100002

Portion 36 of Farm 811 C05500000000081100036

Erf 6 C05500160000000600000

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2. Project Description:

The western bank of the Berg River along Digteby Farm is currently eroding which is threatening existing infrastructure on Digteby Farm. Working for Water has recently cleared large patches of alien vegetation along the riparian zone of the Berg River. However, the river banks were left barren and eroded due to the lack of stabilization of the bank with indigenous vegetation. During the winter months when an increase in surface water runoff of the Berg River is experienced, the river bank is not stable and erodes. The clearing of alien vegetation, together with the alterations to the surrounding environment has exacerbated the erosion on site. It is therefore critically important to stabilise the banks in order to protect the existing infrastructure along the river bank.

The proponent, The Kevin Maree Trust, proposes the rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River on the remainder of Farm 881 Digteby, Simondium. Existing infrastructure occurring along the river include a house, outbuildings, a perimeter fence and a tarred access road. The access road and the fence along the river bank are threatened by erosion. It is therefore urgently required to halt this process with remedial measures. Please refer to Figure 1 below for an indication of the location of the development on the proposed site.

The proposed activity aimed to arrest erosion along the Berg River is to construct gabions along with the revegetation of the bank using indigenous vegetation. The use of gabions to arrest erosion was selected as this would stabilise the presently eroded bank, and would not result in disturbance to the flow pattern in the river which could potentially negatively impact other areas. It is therefore recommended that a continuous gabion revetment be constructed along the western bank for a distance of 265m. The front face will be stepped outwards into the watercourse. Special treatment at the start and end of the revetment is required, namely that it will taper to vertical. At the start it will also turn into the bank for a length of 2m. Furthermore, in order to cover the revetment with vegetation with roots penetration through the gabions and into the earth embankment, the voids in the rock infill will be filled with alien seed-free sod and retained in the structure by placing geotextile close to the front of the revetment and not on the face against the soil embankment. Vegetation growth with a strong root system, and with good coverage in the area between the walkway and the gabion revetment is recommended.

The instream and riparian habitat of the Berg River at the site is considered largely modified primarily due to the flow and channel alterations of the river. Despite these modifications the river is still considered to be of high ecological importance and sensitivity. This is largely due to the role it plays as a refuge and corridor for indigenous species within a landscape which has mostly been cultivated or developed. Please refer to Addendum C for the proposed gabion layout.

Berg River Improvement Plan

Due to the importance of the Berg River with regards to the provision of freshwater to numerous communities and industries deriving goods and services from the river system, a Berg River Improvement Plan was created in order to improve the quality of the Berg River. The vision of the Berg River Improvement Plan include “Berg River water of acceptable quality and quantity for sustainable farming, industrial development, human consumption and recreation, as well as ecological health.” Ensuring sustainable farming, as well as promoting ecological health, are two elements which are applicable to the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River. The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is therefore in line with the Berg River Improvement Plan. Not only will the rehabilitation of the Berg River ensure sustainable farming practices, but will also improve the ecological health of the proposed site due to the revegetation of indigenous vegetation along the river bank.

The Drakenstein River Environmental Management Plan

The River Environmental Management Plan (ERMP) provides information for managers regarding the best practices to deal with ecological problems. These best practices have been formulated to move the state of the Berg River and other rivers within the municipality towards specific objectives. Target B and C of the ERMP focus on the maintenance and re-instatement of buffers around rivers and wetlands. A recommended buffer of 115m where gabions are suggested on either side of the Berg River is proposed between the Wemmershoek River confluence and N1 Bridge (the Lower Foothill stony-cobble run zone). This assumes a river width of 30-

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50m at high flow. The purpose of the buffer is to act as an ecological corridor and for the area to be kept free of alien flora, agriculture, grazing, drainage and berms.

The proposed gabions will be within this buffer. However, the purpose of the gabions is to protect existing infrastructure also located within the proposed buffer zone. It should be noted that the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will contribute towards reducing impacts and fostering ecological integrity within the buffer zone thereby improving the buffer zone. Furthermore, the removal of alien vegetation and re-vegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation will improve and enhance the ecological corridor at the specified sites where rehabilitation is proposed.

3. Environmental Analysis:

1. Climate

Digteby Farm (Paarl) experiences Mediterranean climate with an average annual rainfall of 809 mm of which most occurs during the winter season (Western Cape Department of Agriculture: www.elsenburg.com). The mean annual temperature is 17.3°C, with temperatures ranging between 22.9°C in summer months to 11.6°C in winter months. This supports the development to take place during the dry, low rainfall, summer months.

2. Vegetation and Geology

There are three vegetation types currently recognised as having occurred naturally within the vicinity of the site of the proposed activity. The original vegetation found at the proposed site of development is Swartland Alluvium Fynbos, however Swartland Shale Renosterveld is also present on Digteby Farm. Furthermore, Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland Alluvial vegetation was found along the riparian areas of the river. According to Mucina and Rutherford (164-5:2006) Swartland Alluvium Fynbos vegetation is commonly found in the Boland region, specifically in broad valley bottoms of Paarl, Drakenstein.

The dominant geology where the Fynbos flourishes are alluvial gravel and cobble fields typically resting over Malmesbury Group schists and phyllites as well as over Cape Suite granites and on Malmesbury Group sandstones from Simondium to Klipheuwel.

3. Slope

The proposed site is located on the western river bank of the Berg River which therefore has a steep slope. At the site there is a drop in elevation of the river bed.

4. Neighbouring Land Uses

The land use of the surrounding area is dominated by agriculture. The Berg River corridor is mapped as degraded. Land use impacts have been significant upon the Berg River. The history of agricultural development within the valley has seen the river confined to a single channel. Across the river, on the eastern banks, the cultivated fields are part of the Val de Vie housing and polo estate. A holiday resort (The Berg River Resort) is directly downstream of the site.

5. Zoning

The site is currently zoned for agricultural purposes.

4. Access

Access will be gained from an existing dirt road present on the Digteby Farm, thereby limiting the ecological impact on the receiving environment.

5. EIA Activities Triggered:

In terms of the 2014 EIA regulations, promulgated on the 4th of December 2015, the following listed activities are triggered by the proposed development:

GN No. R. 983 Activity No(s): 12and 19

GN No. R 985 Activity No (s): 12 and 14.

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6. Paarl’s Socio Economic Situation

The town of Paarl with an approximate population of 190 000 people, is the third oldest town in the country. Paarl is also the largest town in the Cape Winelands. The town is known for its agricultural practices, specifically the farming of fruit and prevalence of wineries. The proposed development will create short term economic advantages for the town of Paarl through the creation of job opportunities.

7. Public Participation Process

The first Draft BAR was made available for review from the 4th of November until the 5th of December at the Paarl Public Library. A newspaper advert was placed in the Paarl Post on the 3rd of November announcing the commencement of the first commenting period. Two site notices were erected at the entrance to the site (i.e. entrance from the R45), one in English and one in Afrikaans. Furthermore, registered Interested and Affected Parties were notified of the commenting period via registered post sent on the 4th of November 2016. Lastly, Background Information Documents were hand delivered to residents living within 100m of the proposed site. The first Public Participation period thereby concluded on the 5th of December 2016.

The second Draft BAR was made available for review from the 31st of January 2017 until the 3rd of March 2017 at the Paarl Public Library. Notification letters was also sent to all Interested and Affected Parties (I&AP’s) and Commenting Authorities on the same day. Furthermore, copies of the Second Draft BAR document were hand delivered to the relevant commenting authorities on the 31st of January 2017. The second public participation for the proposed rehabilitation will conclude on the 3rd of March 2017.

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SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

(a) Is the project a new development? YES NO

(b) Provide a detailed description of the development project and associated infrastructure.

1. Location

Digteby Farm (Remainder of Farm 811) is located on the western bank of the Berg River in the Western Cape Province. The farm is approximately 3.5 km south east of the town of Paarl. The boundary of the farm occurs along the outside edge of a bend/meander in the Berg River channel. Existing infrastructure along the river include a house, outbuildings, a perimeter fence and a tarred access road. The access road and fence along the river bank are threatened by erosion. The proposed site is managed by The Kevin Maree Trust.

Table 2 SG Codes of Applicable Cadastral Land Parcels

Applicable Cadastral Land Parcel

SG Code

Remainder of Farm 811 C05500000000081100000

Portion 2 of Farm 811 C05500000000081100002

Portion 36 of Farm 811 C05500000000081100036

Erf 6 C05500160000000600000

2. Project Description:

The western bank of the Berg River along Digteby Farm (on portions Farm Number: 2/811; 36/811; RE/811; and Erf 6) is currently eroding which is threatening existing infrastructure on Digteby Farm. Working for Water has recently cleared large patches of alien vegetation along the riparian zone of the Berg River. However, the river banks were left barren and eroded due to the lack of stabilization of the bank with indigenous vegetation. During the winter months when an increase in surface water runoff of the Berg River is experienced, the river bank is not stabilized and hence erodes. The clearing of alien vegetation, together with the alterations to the surrounding environment has exacerbated the erosion on site. It is therefore critically important to stabilise the banks in order to protect the existing infrastructure along the river bank

The proponent, The Kevin Maree Trust, proposes the rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River along the following portions: Farm Number: 2/811; 36/811; RE/811; and Erf 6. Existing infrastructure occurring along the river include a house, outbuildings, a perimeter fence and a tarred access road. The access road and the fence along the river bank are threatened by erosion. It is therefore urgently required to halt this process with remedial measures. Please refer to Figure 1 below for an indication of the location of the development on the proposed site.


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Gabions are to be baskets made of hexagonal woven wire Mesh Type 80, commonly referred to as double twist wire mesh as per SANS 1580. The 2.7mm diameter steel wire used in the manufacture of gabions is to be galvanised to class A with zinc alloy coated wire according to SANS 1580 and SANS 10244-2 and has a tensile strength between 350-575N/mm2. Polymer coating is to be extruded over the galvanised wire to provide added protection. PVC coating to SANS and has a thickness of 0.5mm.

The instream and riparian habitat of the Berg River at the site is considered largely modified primarily due to the flow and channel alterations of the river. Despite these modifications the river is still considered to be of high ecological importance and sensitivity. This is largely due to the role it plays as a refuge and corridor for native species within a landscape which has mostly been cultivated or developed. Please refer to Addendum C for the proposed gabion layout.


Due to the importance of the Berg River with regards to the provision of freshwater to numerous communities and industries deriving goods and services from the river system, a Berg River Improvement Plan was created in order to improve the quality of the Berg River. The vision of the Berg River Improvement Plan include “Berg River water of acceptable quality and quantity for sustainable farming, industrial development, human consumption and recreation, as well as ecological health.” Ensuring sustainable farming, as well as promoting ecological health, are two elements which are applicable to the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River. The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is therefore in line with the Berg River Improvement Plan. Not only will the rehabilitation of the Berg River ensure sustainable farming practices, but will also improve the ecological health of the proposed site due to the revegetation of indigenous vegetation along the river bank.


The River Environmental Management Plan (ERMP) provides information for managers regarding the best practices to deal with ecological problems. These best practices have been formulated to move the state of the Berg River and other rivers within the municipality towards specific objectives. Target B and C of the ERMP focus on the maintenance and re-instatement of buffers around rivers and wetlands. A recommended buffer of 115m where gabions are suggested on either side of the Berg River is proposed between the Wemmershoek River confluence and N1 Bridge (the Lower Foothill stony-cobble run zone). This assumes a river width of 30-50m at high flow. The purpose of the buffer is to act as an ecological corridor and for the area to be kept free of alien flora, agriculture, grazing, drainage and berms.

The proposed gabions will be within this buffer. However, the purpose of the gabions is to protect existing infrastructure also located within the proposed buffer zone. It should be noted that the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will contribute towards reducing impacts and fostering ecological integrity within the buffer zone thereby improving the buffer zone. Furthermore, the removal of alien vegetation and re-vegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation will improve and enhance the ecological corridor at the specified sites where rehabilitation is proposed.

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FIGURE 1 LOCALITY MAP INDICATING FARM 811, DIGTEBY, PAARL. Figure 1 LOCALITY MAP INDICATING FARM 811, DIGTEBY, SIMONDIUM

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3. Environmental Analysis:

1. Climate

Digteby Farm (Paarl) experiences Mediterranean climate with an average annual rainfall of 809 mm of which mostly occurs during the winter season (Western Cape Department of Agriculture: www.elsenburg.com). The mean annual temperature is 17.3°C, ranging between 22.9°C in summer months to 11.6°C in winter months. The high flow rate during the winter limits the construction period to the dry summer months.

2. Vegetation and Geology

There are three vegetation types currently recognised as having occurred naturally within the vicinity of the site of the proposed activity. According to the Vegetation Map of South-Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006), historically the area would have been dominated by Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland Alluvial Vegetation; Swartland Alluvium Fynbos, and Swartland Shale Renosterveld. However, none of these vegetation types are present on the property. According to Mucina and Rutherford (164-5:2006) Swartland Alluvium Fynbos vegetation is commonly found in the Boland region, specifically in broad valley bottoms of Paarl, Drakenstein. The Swartland Alluvium Fynbos vegetation type supports the Boland Coast Renosterveld veld type as classified by Acocks. The Swartland Alluvium Fynbos vegetation type is classified as critically endangered with a conservation target of 30%. Conservation areas include the Waterval Nature Reserve (nearly 10% conserved), Winterhoek, and private reserves such as Elandsberg, Langerug and Wiesenhof Wildpark.

A second vegetation type was found on site, namely Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland Alluvial Vegetation. This vegetation occurs along a broad alluvia of middle and lower stretches of rivers in the Western Cape, including the Berg River and is listed as critically endangered vegetation with a conservation target of 31%. This vegetation was found in the riparian areas of the river.

A third vegetation type was found on site, namely the Swartland Shale Renosterveld, which is listed as critically endangered vegetation. Although elements of these natural vegetation types do occur in places, the vegetation has mostly been transformed.

Agricultural development has replaced most of the natural vegetation. The removal of woody indigenous riparian plants such as Brabejum stellatifolium, Kiggelaria africana, Podocarpus elongatus, Olea europaea subsp. africana and Diospyros glabra and invasion of the riparian zone, particularly by Eucalyptus and Acacia species, has resulted in a transformed floral species assemblage.

The surrounding land use is predominantly agricultural. Therefore, most of the land cover has been transformed from natural vegetation to cultivated. Therefore the proposed development will not have a large impact on the flora on the proposed site. Furthermore, indigenous vegetation will be planted along the river bank in order to stabilize the bank which will result in the clearing of alien vegetation.

The geology of the Upper Berg River catchment is largely sedimentary, where the Hottentots Holland, Franschhoek and Great Drakenstein Mountains are Table Mountain Group sandstone with some outcrops of Cape Granite. Within river channels, more recent fine to medium coarse grained alluvial deposits is present that extend throughout the study area. The substrate of the Upper Berg River consists largely of weathered sandstone that typically leaches few salts and nutrients into water. The dominant geology where the Fynbos flourishes are alluvial gravel and cobble fields typically resting over Malmesbury Group schists and phyllites as well as over Cape Suite granites and on Malmesbury Group sandstones from Simondium to Klipheuwel. The soils underlying the area are described as being leached with a sandy texture and a sub-surface accumulation of organic matter and aluminium. As the site is within the floodplain the soils are mostly of an alluvial origin. The soils further from the river are described as having a marked clay accumulation, strongly structured and a non-reddish colour. They may occur associated with one or more vertic, melanic and plinthic soils.

3. Slope

The proposed site is located on the western river bank of the Berg River which therefore has a steep slope. The proposed development is to construct gabions along the river bank. At the site there is a drop in elevation of the river bed. Please refer to Addendum B in order to view Site Photos.

http://www.elsenburg.com/

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4. Neighbouring Land Uses

Digteby farm is surrounded by numerous agricultural farms to the North, East and West of the farm. The Berg River is adjacent to Digteby farm on the southern side of the farm. Land use impacts have been significant upon the Berg River. The history of agricultural development within the valley has seen the river confined to a single channel. Agricultural practices surrounding Digteby farm primarily include the farming of fruit. The areas adjacent to the proposed site of development is therefore zoned for agricultural purposes. Furthermore, the Val de Vie housing and polo estate is situated on the eastern bank of the Berg River; and a holiday resort (The Berg River Resort) is directly downstream of the site.

5. Dust

Construction is proposed to take place during the dry summer months. This can therefore lead so possible problems relating to dust during the construction phase. However, mitigation measures aimed at minimising adverse impacts associated with dust is set out in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

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4. Consideration of alternatives

From a freshwater perspective there are a number of potential alternative activities which can be carried out in response to the erosion at the site. Two alternative activities was proposed, excluding the construction of gabion and revegetation of the river bank.

Alternative 1 (Preferred Alternative)


Alternative 2

The second alternative is the no-go alternative. If no measures are taken to arrest the erosion at the site it has the potential to continue and eventually undercut the properties fence and road. Although this is undesirable, the cost to the land owner of establishing a new access road further from the river should be compared to the cost of constructing gabions to arrest the erosion. Should the erosion continue beyond the road it would threaten a number of buildings on the property.

Alternative 3

The third alternative is to revegetate the river bank with indigenous plant species and reduce the need to construct gabions. It is known that certain plant species which grow within the riparian zone will aid in stabilizing the banks. Species such as Prionium serratum would, if established, absorb some of the energy of the flow which is causing the erosion at the site. The bank is already vertical and therefore in order to establish vegetation which would stabilize the bank, from the base to the top, would require shaping. This would entail either collapsing the vertical bank or bringing in top soil to create a more gradual slope down to the river’s edge. The slope could be revegetated but this activity would impact negatively on the existing structure present. Plants which are planted in the summer struggle to survive the heat and dryness. Furthermore, flows from the Berg River are relatively controlled as a result of the Berg River Dam. However, should a large flood result in the dam being overtopped in the first winter after planting, it is likely that the plants will be washed away and will not aid in arresting further erosion. Therefore, it cannot be guaranteed that revegetation alone would arrest the erosion at the site.

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Alternative 4

The forth alternative for the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is to use rip-rap in order to stabilise the river bank. The use of rip-rap entails stabilising the river bank by depositing rocks (mostly granite and limestone) along the river bank. The aim of rip-rap is to absorb the impact of the water before the water impacts the river bank thereby reducing the force of the water on the eroding river bank. Although this alternative is proposed, the use of gabions in conjunction with active revegetation using indigenous species is preferred due to the fact that the preferred alternative will be structurally stable and hence be able to withstand the force of the water during a flooding event. Furthermore, the use of active re-vegetation as part of the preferred alternative will address the problem associated with the alien vegetation currently present on the river bank. The preferred alternative is therefore more effective with regards to stabilising the river bank.

5. Access

Access will be gained from an existing dirt road on the Digteby Farm. Therefore, environmental impacts with regards to transportation will be minimal.

(c) List all the activities assessed during the Basic Assessment process:

PLEASE NOTE THAT APPLICATION FOR THIS PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT WILL BE DONE UNDER THE 2014 EIA REGS, WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT ON THE 4TH OF DECEMER 2014, THEREFORE NO 2010 EIA REGULATIONS ARE TRIGGERED. TO DATE, NO NEW BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT TEMPLATE HAVE BEEN MADE AVAILABLE, THEREFORE THE 2010 BASIC ASSESSMENT TEMPLATE WAS USED FOR THIS ASSESSMENT.

GN No. R. 544

Activity No(s):

Describe the relevant Basic Assessment

Activity(ies) in writing as per Listing Notice 1

(GN No. R. 544)

Describe the portion of the development as per the project

description that relates to the applicable listed activity.

N/A N/A N/A

GN No. R. 546

Activity No(s):



(GN No. R. 546)



N/A N/A N/A

If the application is also for activities as per Listing Notice 2 and permission was granted to subject the application to

Basic Assessment, also indicate the applicable Listing Notice 2 activities:

GN No. R. 545

Activity No(s):

If permission was granted in terms of Regulation 20,

describe the relevant Scoping and EIA Activity(ies)

in writing as per Listing Notice 2 (GN No. R. 545)



N/A N/A N/A

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PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING SECTION WAS INSERTED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER FOR THE INCLUSION OF THE NEW 2014 EIA REGULATIONS, WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT ON THE 4TH OF DECEMBER 2014.

List all the activities assessed during the Basic Assessment process in terms of the 2014 EIA Regulations:

GN No. R. 983

Activity No(s):



(GN No. R. 983)



12 The development of-

(i) Canals exceeding 100 square metres

in size;

(ii) Channels exceeding 100 square

metres in size;

(iii) Bridges exceeding 100 square metres

in size;

(iv) Dams, where the dam, including

infrastructure and water surface area

exceeds 10 square metres in size;

(v) Weirs, where the weir, including



(vi) Bulk storm water outlet structures

exceeding 10 square metres in size;

(vii) Marinas exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(viii) Jetties exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(ix) Slipways exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(x) Buildings exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(xi) Boardwalks exceeding 10 square

metres in size; or

(xii) Infrastructure or structures with a

physical footprint of 10 square metres

or more;

Where the development occurs-

(a) Within a watercourse;

(b) In front of a development

setback; or

(c) If no development setback exists,

within 32 metres of a

watercourse, measured from the

edge of a watercourse; -

Excluding-

(aa) the development of infrastructure or

structures within existing ports or harbours

The proposed construction of gabions along the

western bank of the Berg River will result in

structures with a physical footprint exceeding

100 square metres or more being built along the

western bank of the Berg River.

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that will not increase the development

footprint of the port or harbor;

(bb) where such development activities

are related to the development of a port

or harbor, in which case activity 26 in

Listing Notice 2 of 2014 applies;

(cc) Activities listed in activity 14 in Listing

Notice 2 of 2014 or activity 14 in Listing

Notice 3 of 2014, in which case that

activity applies;

(ee) where such development occurs

within existing roads or road reserves.

19 The infilling or depositing of any material

of more than 5 cubic metres into, or the

dredging, excavation, removal or

moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit,

pebbles or rock of more than 5 cubic

meters from;

(i) a watercourse;

(ii) the seashore; or

(iii) the littoral active zone, an estuary or

a distance of 100 metres inland of the

high-water mark of the sea or an estuary,

whichever distance is the greater~

But excluding where such infilling,

depositing, dredging, excavation,

removal or moving

(a) will occur behind a development

setback;

(b) is for maintenance purposes

undertaken in accordance with a

maintenance management plan; or

(c) falls within the ambit of activity 21 in

this Notice, in which case that activity

applies.

The proposed project is to rehabilitate the

western bank of the Berg River, therefore due to

the nature of the project, the location of the

project is in close proximity to the Berg River.

GN No. R. 985

Activity No(s):



(GN No. R. 985)



12

The clearance of an area of 300 square

meters or more of indigenous vegetation

except where such clearance of

indigenous vegetation is required for

maintenance purposes undertaken in

accordance with a maintenance

management plan.

In Western Cape:

i. Within any critically endangered or

endangered ecosystem listed in

Although the majority of the natural vegetation

have been transformed to cultivated lands,

the development will partially be located

within an area containing sensitive vegetation

of which more than 300m² will be removed.

15

terms of section 52 of the NEMBA or

prior to the publication of such a list,

within an area that has been

identified as critically endangered in

the National Spatial Biodiversity

Assessment 2004;

ii. Within critical biodiversity areas

identified in bioregional plans;

iii. Within the littoral active zone or 100

metres inland from high water mark

of the sea or an estuarine functional

zone, whichever distance is the

greater, excluding where such

removal will occur behind the

development setback line on erven

in urban areas; or

iv. On land, where, at the time of the

coming into effect of this Notice or

thereafter such land was zoned open

space, conservation or had an

equivalent zoning.

14

The development of –

(xiii) Canals exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(xiv) Channels exceeding 10 square

metres in size;

(xv) Bridges exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(xvi) Dams, where the dam, including



(xvii) Weirs, where the weir, including



(xviii) Bulk storm water outlet structures

exceeding 10 square metres in size;

(xix) Marinas exceeding 10 square

metres in size;

(xx) Jetties exceeding 10 square metres

in size;

(xxi) Slipways exceeding 10 square

metres in size;

(xxii) Buildings exceeding 10 square

metres in size;

(xxiii) Boardwalks exceeding 10 square

metres in size; or

The proposed construction of gabions along

the western bank of the Berg River will result in

structures with a physical footprint exceeding

100 square metres or more being built within

the Berg River.

16

(xxiv) Infrastructure or structures with a

physical footprint of 10 square metres

or more;

Where such development occurs –

(a) Within a watercourse;

(b) In front of a development

setback;

(c) If no development setback has

been adopted, within 32 metres

of a watercourse, measured from

the edge of a watercourse;

Excluding the development of

infrastructure or structures within

existing ports or harbours that will not

increase the development footprint

of the port or harbor.

In Western Cape:

i. Outside urban areas, in:

(aa) A protected area identified in

terms of NEMPAA, excluding

conservancies;

(bb) National Protected Areas

Expansion Strategy Focus areas;

(cc) World Heritage Sites;

(dd) Sensitive areas as identified in an

environmental management

framework as contemplated in

chapter 5 of the Act and as adopted

by the commenting authority;

(ee) Sites or areas listed in terms of an

International Convention;

(ff) Critical biodiversity areas or

ecosystem service areas as identified

in systematic biodiversity plans

adopted by the competent authority

or in bioregional plans;

(gg) Core areas in biosphere

reserves; or

(hh) Areas on the estuary side of the

development setback line or in an

estuarine functional zone where no

such setback line has been

determined.

GN No. R. 984

Activity No(s):

If permission was granted in terms of Regulation 20,

describe the relevant Scoping and EIA Activity(ies)

in writing as per Listing Notice 2 (GN No. R. 984)



N/A N/A N/A

17

Waste management activities in terms of the NEM: WA (Government Gazette No. 32368):

GN No. 718 - Category A

Activity No(s): Describe the relevant Category A waste management activity in writing.

N/A N/A

Please note: If any waste management activities are applicable, the Listed Waste Management Activities Additional

Information Annexure must be completed and attached to this Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.

If the application is also for waste management activities as per Category B and permission was granted to subject

the application to Basic Assessment, also indicate the applicable Category B activities:

GN No. 718 – Category B

Activity No(s): Describe the relevant Category B waste management activity in writing.

N/A N/A

Atmospheric emission activities in terms of the NEM: AQA (Government Gazette No. 33064):

GN No. 248

Activity No(s): Describe the relevant atmospheric emission activity in writing.

N/A N/A

(d) Please provide details of all components of the proposed project and attach diagrams (e.g. architectural

drawings or perspectives, engineering drawings, process flow charts etc.).

Buildings YES NO

Provide brief description:

N/A

Infrastructure (e.g. roads, power and water supply/ storage) YES NO


Gabions will be constructed along the western bank of the Berg River in order to arrest erosion on Digteby Farm. It is therefore recommended that a continuous gabion revetment be constructed along the western bank for a distance of 265m. The front face will be stepped outwards into the watercourse. Special treatment at the start and end of the revetment is required, namely that it will taper to vertical. At the start it will also turn into the bank for a length of 2m.

Processing activities (e.g. manufacturing, storage, distribution) YES NO


N/A

Storage facilities for raw materials and products (e.g. volume and substances to be stored)

Provide brief description YES NO

N/A

Storage and treatment facilities for solid waste and effluent generated by the project YES NO

18

Provide brief description

N/A

Other activities (e.g. water abstraction activities, crop planting activities) YES NO

Provide brief description

N/A

19

2. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

Size of the property:

(a) Indicate the size of the property (cadastral unit) on which the activity is to be undertaken. 438 759.1 m2

Size of the facility:

(b) Indicate the size of the facility (development area) on which the activity is to be undertaken. Approx. 660 m2

Size of the activity:

(c) Indicate the physical size (footprint) of the activity together with its associated infrastructure: Approx. 660 m2

(d) Indicate the physical size (footprint) of the activity: Approx. 660 m2

(e) Indicate the physical size (footprint) of the associated infrastructure: Approx. 660 m2

and, for linear activities:

Length of the activity:

(f) Indicate the length of the activity:

3. SITE ACCESS

(a) Is there an existing access road? YES NO

(b) If no, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built? N/A

(c) Describe the type of access road planned:

N/A

Please Note: indicate the position of the proposed access road on the site plan.

4. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY ON WHICH THE ACTIVITY IS TO BE UNDERTAKEN AND THE

LOCATION OF THE ACTIVITY ON THE PROPERTY

(a) Provide a description of the property on which the activity is to be undertaken and the location of the activity on

the property.

The Digteby farm is approximately 3.5 km south east of the town of Paarl. The boundary of the farm occurs

along the outside edge of a bend/meander in the Berg River channel. Existing infrastructure occurring along

the river include a house, outbuildings, a perimeter fence and a tarred access road. The predominant land use

is characterised by agricultural practices- in particular the farming of fruit.

It is proposed that gabions should be constructed along the western bank of the Berg River in order to arrest

erosion. The revegetation of indigenous vegetation is also proposed to stabilize the river bank. The cadastral

parcels of land on which the rehabilitation is proposed include the Remainder of Farm 811, Portions 2 and 36

of Farm 811, and Erf 6, Simondium.

The proposed site is located on the western bank of the Berg River in the Western Cape Province. The Berg

River at the site consist of a single channel approximately 20-30m wide. The Berg River flows in a northerly

direction. At the site there is a drop in elevation of the river bed. As the river bends the energy of the flow is

focused on the outer edge (western bank) of the bend and erosion occurs along the entire bend. However,

the extent of the erosion, as evidenced by the height of the cut bank, appears to be greatest within the site

20

where the gabions are proposed. The western bank is steep and being eroded away whilst the eastern bank

has a gradual slope with some deposition. There is a small island immediately upstream of the site. Please

refer to Addendum B in order to view Site Photos.

There are three vegetation types currently recognised as having occurred naturally within the vicinity of the

site of the proposed activity. These include a) Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland

Alluvial Vegetation; b) Swartland Alluvium Fynbos, which would naturally have occurred adjacent to the Upper

Berg River’s riparian zone; c) while outside of the riparian zone, the natural vegetation would have been

Swartland Shale Renosterveld. Although elements of these natural vegetation types do occur in places, the

vegetation has mostly been transformed.

(b) Please provide a location map (see below) as Appendix A to this report which shows the location of the property

and the location of the activity on the property; as well as a site map (see below) as Appendix B to this report;

and if applicable all alternative properties and locations.

Locality

map:

The scale of the locality map must be at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25

kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.

The map must indicate the following:

an accurate indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative

sites, if any;

road names or numbers of all the major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the

site(s)

a north arrow;

a legend;

the prevailing wind direction (during November to April and during May to October); and

GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the

centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and

decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate

accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or

local projection).

Site Plan:

Detailed site plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. The site plan

must contain or conform to the following:

The detailed site plan must be at a scale preferably at a scale of 1:500 or at an appropriate

scale. The scale must be indicated on the plan.

The property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50m of the site must be

indicated on the site plan.

The current land use (not zoning) as well as the land use zoning of each of the adjoining

properties must be indicated on the site plan.

The position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site must

be indicated on the site plan.

Services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply

pipelines, boreholes, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and access roads that will

form part of the development must be indicated on the site plan.

Servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude must be indicated on the site plan.

Sensitive environmental elements within 100m of the site must be included on the site plan,

including (but not limited to):

o Rivers.

o Flood lines (i.e. 1:10, 1:50, year and 32 meter set back line from the banks of a river/stream).

o Ridges.

21

o Cultural and historical features.

o Areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species).

Whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, then a contour map of the site must be submitted.

(c) For a linear activity, please also provide a description of the route.

N/A

Site Alternative

Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude

and longitude of the centre point of the site. The co-

ordinates must be in degrees, minutes and seconds.

The minutes should be given to at least three decimals

to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that

must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a

national or local projection.

Latitude (S): Longitude (E):

33° 47' 57.87" 18° 57' 29.33"

(d) or:

For linear activities: Latitude (S): Longitude (E):

Starting point of the activity: 33° 47' 58.40" 18° 57' 31.17"

Middle point of the activity: 33° 47' 58.35" 18° 57' 29.74"

End point of the activity: 33° 47' 58.74" 18° 57' 28.33"

Please Note: For linear activities that are longer than 500m, please provide and addendum with co-ordinates taken

every 100 meters along the route.

5. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Colour photographs of the site and its surroundings (taken of the site and from the site) with a description of each

photograph. The vantage points from which the photographs were taken must be indicated on the site plan, or

locality plan as applicable. If available, please also provide a recent aerial photograph. Photographs must be

attached as Appendix C to this report. It should be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features

on the site. Date of photographs must be included. Please note that the above requirements must be duplicated for

all alternative sites.

22

SECTION B: DESCRIPTION OF RECEIVING

ENVIRONMENT

Site/Area Description

For linear activities (pipelines, etc.) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete

copies of this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please

complete copies of Section B and indicate the area which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

Indicate the general gradient of the sites (highlight the appropriate box).

Flat Flatter than 1:10 1:10 – 1:4 Steeper than 1:4

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

(a) Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site (highlight the appropriate box(es).

Ridgeline Plateau Side slope of

hill/mountain

Closed

valley

Open

valley Plain

Undulating

plain/low

hills

Dune Sea-front

(b) Please provide a description of the location in the landscape.

The proposed site is located on the western bank of the Berg River in the Western Cape Province.

The Berg River at the site consist of a single channel approximately 20-30m wide. At the site there

is a 3 metre drop in elevation of the river bed. The western bank is steep and being eroded away

whilst the eastern bank has a gradual slope with some deposition.

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

(a) Is the site(s) located on or near any of the following (highlight the appropriate boxes)?

Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) YES NO UNSURE

Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies) YES NO UNSURE

Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil YES NO UNSURE

Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) YES NO UNSURE

Soils with high clay content YES NO UNSURE

Any other unstable soil or geological feature YES NO UNSURE

An area sensitive to erosion YES NO UNSURE

An area adjacent to or above an aquifer. YES NO UNSURE

An area within 100m of the source of surface water YES NO UNSURE

23

(b) If any of the answers to the above are “YES” or “unsure”, specialist input may be requested by the Department.

(Information in respect of the above will often be available at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it

exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by Geological Survey may also be used).

Please indicate the type of geological formation underlying the site.

Granite Shale Sandstone Quartzite Dolomite Dolorite Other

(describe)

Please provide a description.

A steeply dipping quartzitic sandstone is underlying the site. This feature would also assist with the footing

of the gabions to ensure additional stability.

4. SURFACE WATER

(a) Indicate the surface water present on and or adjacent to the site and alternative sites (highlight the appropriate

boxes)?

Perennial River YES NO UNSURE

Non-Perennial River YES NO UNSURE

Permanent Wetland YES NO UNSURE

Seasonal Wetland YES NO UNSURE

Artificial Wetland YES NO UNSURE

Estuarine / Lagoonal wetland YES NO UNSURE

(b) Please provide a description.

The proposed site is located on the river bank of the Berg River, which is a perennial river.

5. BIODIVERSITY

Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the biodiversity

occurring on the site and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. To assist with the identification of the

biodiversity occurring on site and the ecosystem status consult http://bgis.sanbi.org or [email protected].

Information is also available on compact disc (cd) from the Biodiversity-GIS Unit, Ph (021) 799 8698. This information

may be updated from time to time and it is the applicant/ EAP’s responsibility to ensure that the latest version is used.

A map of the relevant biodiversity information (including an indication of the habitat conditions as per (b) below) and

must be provided as an overlay map to the property/site plan as Appendix D to this report.

(a) Highlight the applicable biodiversity planning categories of all areas on site and indicate the reason(s) provided

in the biodiversity plan for the selection of the specific area as part of the specific category).

Systematic Biodiversity Planning Category If CBA or ESA, indicate the reason(s) for its selection in

biodiversity plan

Critical

Biodiversity

Area

(CBA)

Ecological

Support

Area (ESA)

Other

Natural

Area

(ONA)

No Natural

Area

Remaining

(NNR)

The Berg River is mapped as an ESA at the study site. Despite the high level of modifications to the river it remains an ecologically important feature.

http://bgis.sanbi.org/

mailto:[email protected]

24

(b) Highlight and describe the habitat condition on site.

Habitat Condition

Percentage of

habitat condition

class (adding up

to 100%)

Description and additional Comments and Observations

(including additional insight into condition, e.g. poor land

management practises, presence of quarries,

grazing/harvesting regimes etc).

Natural

Near Natural

(includes areas with low

to moderate level of alien

invasive plants)

Degraded

(includes areas heavily

invaded by alien plants)

5% The riparian zone of the Berg River is highly degraded and therefore the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank through the revegetation of indigenous vegetation will improve the ecological health of the site.

Transformed

(includes cultivation,

dams, urban, plantation,

roads, etc)

95% The site is surrounded by agricultural farming, hence land cover have been transformed from natural to agricultural. There is an existing gravel road which leads to the proposed site of development. The Berg River dam is situated 17 km upstream of the proposed site.

(c) Complete the table to indicate:

(i) the type of vegetation, including its ecosystem status, present on the site; and

(ii) whether an aquatic ecosystem is present on site.

(d) Please provide a description of the vegetation type and/or aquatic ecosystem present on site, including any

important biodiversity features/information identified on site (e.g. threatened species and special habitats).

Terrestrial Ecosystems Aquatic Ecosystems

Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland Alluvial Vegetation; Swartland Alluvium Fynbos; and Swartland Shale Renosterveld.

Critical

Wetland (including rivers,

depressions, channelled

and unchanneled

wetlands, flats, seeps

pans, and artificial

wetlands)

Estuary Coastline

Endangered

Vulnerable

Least

Threatened YES NO UNSURE YES NO YES NO

According to Mucina and Rutherford, both Swartland Alluvium Fynbos and Swartland Shale

Renosterveld is classified as critically endangered. It should however be noted that most of the

vegetation has been transformed to agricultural vineyards and orchards. Furthermore, the

proposed site is located on the banks of the Berg River dam which is an important water source in

the Western Cape.

25

6. LAND USE OF THE SITE

Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the land use character

of the area and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies.

Untransformed area Low density

residential

Medium density

residential

High density

residential Informal residential

Retail Commercial &

warehousing Light industrial Medium industrial Heavy industrial

Power station Office/consulting

room

Military or police

base/station/compound

Casino/entertainment

complex

Tourism &

Hospitality facility

Open cast mine Underground

mine Spoil heap or slimes dam

Quarry, sand or

borrow pit Dam or reservoir

Hospital/medical center School Tertiary education facility Church Old age home

Sewage treatment plant Train station or

shunting yard Railway line

Major road (4 lanes or

more) Airport

Harbour Sport facilities Golf course Polo fields Filling station

Landfill or waste treatment site Plantation Agriculture River, stream or

wetland

Nature

conservation area

Mountain, koppie or ridge Museum Historical building Graveyard Archeological site

Other land uses (describe): N/A

(a) Please provide a description.

The proposed site is located on the western bank of the Berg River where gabions are proposed to arrest erosion of the river bank.

26

7. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

(a) Highlight the current land uses and/or prominent features that occur within +/- 500m radius of the site and

neighbouring properties if these are located beyond 500m of the site.

Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the land use character

of the area and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies.

Untransformed area Low density

residential

Medium density

residential

High density

residential

Informal

residential

Retail Commercial &

warehousing Light industrial Medium industrial Heavy industrial

Power station Office/consulting

room

Military or police

base/station/compound

Casino/entertainment

complex

Tourism &

Hospitality facility

Open cast mine Underground mine Spoil heap or slimes dam Quarry, sand or

borrow pit Dam or reservoir

Hospital/medical center School Tertiary education

facility Church Old age home

Sewage treatment plant Train station or

shunting yard Railway line

Major road (4 lanes or

more) Airport

Harbour Sport facilities Golf course Polo fields Filling station

Landfill or waste

treatment site Plantation Agriculture

River, stream or

wetland

Nature

conservation

area

Mountain, koppie or

ridge Museum Historical building Graveyard

Archeological

site

Other land uses

(describe):

N/A

Please provide a description, including the distance and direction to the nearest residential area and industrial area.

The surrounding land use of the proposed site is dominated by agriculture, specifically the farming of fruit. The Val de Vie residential development is also in close proximity to the proposed rehabilitation.

8. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ASPECTS

Describe the existing social and economic characteristics of the community in order to provide baseline information.

The town of Paarl with an approximate population of 190 000 people, is the third oldest town in the country. Paarl is also the largest town in the Cape Winelands. The town is known for its agricultural practices, specifically the farming of fruit and prevalence of wineries. The proposed development will create short term economic advantages for the town of Paarl through the creation of job opportunities.

27

9. HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ASPECTS

(a) Please be advised that if section 38 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999), is applicable

to your proposed development, then you are requested to furnish this Department with written comment from

Heritage Western Cape as part of your public participation process. Section 38 of the Act states as follows: “38.

(1) Subject to the provisions of subsections (7), (8) and (9), any person who intends to undertake a development

categorised as-

(a) the construction of a road, wall, power line, pipeline, canal or other similar form of linear development

or barrier exceeding 300m in length;

(b) the construction of a bridge or similar structure exceeding 50m in length;

I any development or other activity which will change the character of a site-

(i) exceeding 5 000 m2 in extent; or

(ii) involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions thereof; or

(iii) involving three or more erven or divisions thereof which have been consolidated within the past five

years; or

(iv) the costs of which will exceed a sum set in terms of regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage

resources

authority;

(d) the re-zoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m2 in extent; or

(e) any other category of development provided for in regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage

resources authority,

must at the very earliest stages of initiating such a development, notify the responsible heritage resources

authority and furnish it with details regarding the location, nature and extent of the proposed development.”

(b) The impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2), excluding the national estate contemplated in

section 3(2)(i)(vi) and (vii), of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999), must also be

investigated, assessed and evaluated. Section 3(2) states as follows: “3(2) Without limiting the generality of

subsection (1), the national estate may include—

(a) places, buildings, structures and equipment of cultural significance;

(b) places to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage;

I historical settlements and townscapes;

(d) landscapes and natural features of cultural significance;

(e) geological sites of scientific or cultural importance;

(f) archaeological and palaeontological sites;

(g) graves and burial grounds, including—

(i) ancestral graves;

(ii) royal graves and graves of traditional leaders;

(iii) graves of victims of conflict;

(iv) graves of individuals designated by the Minister by notice in the Gazette;

(v) historical graves and cemeteries; and

(vi) other human remains which are not covered in terms of the Human Tissue Act, 1983 (Act No. 65 of 1983);

(h) sites of significance relating to the history of slavery in South Africa;

(i) movable objects, including—

(i) objects recovered from the soil or waters of South Africa, including archaeological and palaeontological

objects and material, meteorites and rare geological specimens;

(ii) objects to which oral traditions are attached or which are associated with living heritage;

(iii) ethnographic art and objects;

(iv) military objects;

28

(v) objects of decorative or fine art;

(vi) objects of scientific or technological interest; and

(vii) books, records, documents, photographic positives and negatives, graphic, film or video material or

sound recordings, excluding those that are public records as defined in section 1(xiv) of the National Archives

of South Africa Act, 1996 (Act No. 43 of 1996).”

Is section 38 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, applicable to the development?

YES NO

UNCERTAIN

If YES, explain:

The proposed development will trigger the following activities as listed in Section 38(1) of the National Heritage Resource Act:

(a) The construction of a road, wall, powerline, canal or other similar form of linear development or barrier exceeding 300m in length.

Will the development impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National

Heritage Resources Act, 1999?

YES NO

UNCERTAIN

If YES, explain:

Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO UNCERTAIN

If YES, explain:

Please Note: If uncertain, the Department may request that specialist input be provided.

10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

(a) Please list all legislation, policies and/or guidelines that have been considered in the preparation of this Basic

Assessment Report.

LEGISLATION ADMINISTERING AUTHORITY

TYPE

Permit/ license/

authorisation/comment /

relevant consideration (e.g.

rezoning or consent use,

building plan approval)

DATE

(if already obtained):

In terms of sections 24 and 24D of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (GN. No. R385, GN No. R. 386, 6 April 2006)

Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning

Environmental Authorization Pending

Section 38 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999

Heritage Western Cape Record of Decision Yes (18 April 2016)

The National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998)

Department of Water & Sanitation

General Authorisation Pending

29

POLICY/ GUIDELINES ADMINISTERING AUTHORITY

Provincial Spatial Development Framework Western Cape Provincial Government

DEA&DP NEMA EIA Regulations Guideline & Information Document Series Guideline on Public Participation July 2006


DEA&DP NEMA EIA Regulations Guideline & Information Document Series Guidelines on specialist input


DEA&DP NEMA EIA Regulations Guideline & Information Document Series Guideline on Alternatives July 2006


DEA&DP Guideline for environmental decision-making by municipalities in the Western cape


National Development Plan (November 2011)

Strategic Provincial Plan: Western Cape Strategic Objectives (2012) Western Cape Provincial Government

Provincial Spatial Development Framework (2013) Western Cape Provincial Government

Cape Winelands District Spatial Development Framework (2007) Cape Winelands District Municipality

Drakenstein Spatial Development Framework (2015) Drakenstein Local Municipality

Drakenstein Municipality Integrated Development Plant (2013) Drakenstein Local Municipality

(b) Please describe how the legislation, policies and/or guidelines were taken into account in the preparation of this

Basic Assessment Report.

LEGISLATION / POLICY / GUIDELINE

DESCRIBE HOW THE LEGISLATION / POLICY / GUIDELINE WERE TAKEN INTO

ACCOUNT

(e.g. describe the extent to which it was adhered to, or deviated from, etc).

Guidelines on specialist input Guidelines were taken into account in order to assess the need for a specialist.

Other policies and legislation All other policies and legislation were taken into account in order to assess whether the proposed project would clash or deviate from the policies presented.

Please note: Copies of any permit(s) or licences received from any other organ of state must be attached this

report as Appendix E.

30

SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

The public participation process must fulfil the requirements outlined in NEMA, the EIA Regulations, and if applicable

the NEM: WA and/or the NEM: AQA. This Department’s Guideline on Public Participation (August 2010) and Guideline

on Exemption Applications (August 2010), both of which are available on the Department’s website

(http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp), must also be taken into account.

Please highlight the appropriate box to indicate whether the specific requirement was undertaken or whether there

was a deviation that was agreed to by the Department.

1. Were all potential interested and affected parties notified of the application by –

(a) fixing a notice board at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of -

(i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is to be undertaken; and YES DEVIATED

(ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application; YES DEVIATED

(b) giving written notice to –

(i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in

control of the land; YES N/A

(ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is to be undertaken and to any alternative

site where the activity is to be undertaken; YES DEVIATED

(iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is to be undertaken

and to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; YES DEVIATED

(iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site and alternative site is situated and

any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area; YES DEVIATED

(v) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; YES DEVIATED

(vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and YES DEVIATED

(vii) any other party as required by the competent authority; YES DEVIATED

I placing an advertisement in -

(i) one* local newspaper; and YES DEVIATED

(ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public

notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations; YE S DEVIATED N/A

(d) placing an advertisement in at least one* provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if

the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the

metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken.

YE S DEVIATED N/A

* Please note: In terms of the NEM: WA and NEM: AQA a notice must be placed in at least two newspapers

circulating in the area in which the activity applied for is to be carried out.


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3. Please provide an overall summary of the Public Participation Process that was followed. (The detailed outcomes of

this process must be included in a comments and response report to be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report

(see note below) as Appendix F).

2. Provide a list of all the state departments that were consulted:

Department Of Environmental Affairs And Development Planning (DEA&DP): Land Management Region 2

Department Of Environmental Affairs And Development Planning (DEA&DP): Pollution Management

Department Of Water And Sanitation (DWS)

Department Of Agriculture

Cape Nature

Heritage Western Cape

WESSA

Drakenstein Municipality: Heritage

Drakenstein Municipality: Environmental Management

Drakenstein Municipality: Technical Services

Ward Councillor (Ward 1)

Berg River Irrigation Board

Berg River Water Quality Task Team

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Public participation is the involvement of all parties who potentially have an interest in a development or project, or may be affected by it. The principal objective of public participation, is to inform and enrich decision-making of Local and National Authorities.

Process Followed To Date

The first Draft Basic Assessment Report for the proposed rehabilitation of the Berg River bank was made available to the relevant commenting authorities and to the general public for comment on the 4th of November 2016.

Background Information Documents were hand delivered to residents where the proposed activity will take place (4 November 2016). Notification letters were sent via registered post to neighbouring land owners and potentially affected state departments, NGO’s and commenting authorities.

The First Draft Basic Assessment Report was delivered to the relevant authorities and was made available at the local Public Library in Paarl for public review. The following process was undertaken to facilitate a 30 day Public Participation Period, which commenced on Friday 4 November until Wednesday 7 November 2016.

Advertisement

An advertisement was placed in Paarl Post (Dated 3 November 2016) which is the local newspaper to inform residents within the area of the proposed rehabilitation of the Berg River

Site notices

To inform surrounding communities and immediately adjacent landowners of the proposed residential development one set (one being Afrikaans and one English) of site notices were erected at the entrance to the Digteby Farm along the R43.

Direct notification of identified I&APs

Identified I&APs, including key stakeholders representing the following sectors, were directly informed of the proposed rehabilitation by post.

Provincial Authorities

Local Authorities

Service providers

Ward Councillors and

Directly adjacent landowners

Local interest groups

Hand-delivered notifications

Letters were hand-delivered to adjacent landowners in a 100m radius of the property to notify and inform them of the proposed residential development.

Concerns raised by I&APs

No concerns has been received as of yet. The Public Participation period commences Friday 4 November 2016 – Wednesday 7 December 2016. All comments received from I&APs was captured on a stakeholder database, acknowledged by personal letters and forwarded to the relevant environmental specialists for consideration.

Comments and Response Report

Comments received from Interested and Affected Parties (I&AP’s) and Commenting Authorities (CA) during the first Public Participation period (4th of November until 7th of December 2016) were captured in a Comments and Response Report. Issues and concerns raised by I&AP’s and Commenting Authorities could be appropriately addressed in the Comments and Response Report. Please refer to Addendum F for the Comments and Response Report.

Second Draft BAR Public Participation

The second Draft BAR was made available for review from the 31st of January 2017 until the 3rd of March 2017 at the Paarl Public Library. Notification letters were also sent to all Interested and Affected Parties (I&AP’s) and Commenting Authorities on the same day. Furthermore, copies of the Second Draft BAR document were hand

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delivered to the relevant commenting authorities on the 31st of January 2017. The second public participation for the proposed rehabilitation will conclude on the 3rd of March 2017.

Please note:

Should any of the responses be “No” and no deviation or exemption from that requirement was

requested and agreed to /granted by the Department, the Basic Assessment Report will be rejected.

A list of all the potential interested and affected parties, including the organs of State, notified and a list

of all the register of interested and affected parties, must be submitted with the final Basic Assessment

Report. The list of registered interested and affected parties must be opened, maintained and made

available to any person requesting access to the register in writing.

The draft Basic Assessment Report must be submitted to the Department before it is made available to

interested and affected parties, including the relevant organs of State and State departments which

have jurisdiction with regard to any aspect of the activity, for a 40-day commenting period. With regard

to State departments, the 40-day period commences the day after the date on which the Department

as the competent/licensing authority requests such State department in writing to submit comment. The

applicant/EAP is therefore required to inform this Department in writing when the draft Basic Assessment

Report will be made available to the relevant State departments for comment. Upon receipt of the Draft

Basic Assessment Report and this confirmation, this Department will in accordance with Section 24O(2)

and (3) of the NEMA request the relevant State departments to comment on the draft report within 40

days.

All comments of interested and affected parties on the draft Basic Assessment Report must be recorded,

responded to and included in the Comments and Responses Report included as Appendix F to the final

Basic Assessment Report. If necessary, any amendments in response to comments received must be

effected in the Basic Assessment Report itself. The Comments and Responses Report must also include a

description of the public participation process followed.

The final Basic Assessment Report must be made available to registered interested and affected parties

for comment before submitting it to the Department for consideration. Unless otherwise indicated by the

Department, a final Basic Assessment Report must be made available to the registered interested and

affected parties for comment for a minimum of 21-days. Comments on the final Basic Assessment Report

does not have to be responded to, but the comments must be attached to the final Basic Assessment

Report.

The minutes of any meetings held by the EAP with interested and affected parties and other role players

which record the views of the participants must also be submitted as part of the public participation

information to be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix F.

Proof of all the notices given as indicated, as well as of notice to the interested and affected parties of

the availability of the draft Basic Assessment Report and final Basic Assessment Report must be submitted

as part of the public participation information to be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as

Appendix F.

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SECTION D: NEED AND DESIRABILITY

Please Note: Before completing this section, first consult this Department’s Guideline on Need and Desirability (August

2010) available on the Department’s website (http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp).

1. Is the activity permitted in terms of the property’s existing land use rights? YES NO Please explain

The proposed property is currently zoned for Agricultural purposes. No new land use rights will be required as the application is for the rehabilitation of the river bank, which is a temporary activity.

2. Will the activity be in line with the following?

(a) Provincial Spatial Development Framework (PSDF) YES NO Please explain

The Provincial Spatial Development Framework supports the preservation of the Western Cape’s natural resources.

(b) Urban edge / Edge of Built environment for the area YES NO Please explain

According to the Drakenstein Municipality’s SDF (2010) the proposed activity falls outside of the urban edge, however, due to the short lived nature of the activity, and its intention to facilitate the safe securing of the river bank and associated structures, this framework is not in contrast to the proposed development.

(c) Integrated Development Plan and Spatial Development Framework of the

Local Municipality (e.g. would the approval of this application compromise the

integrity of the existing approved and credible municipal IDP and SDF?).

YES NO Please explain

The proposed development creates opportunity for continued economic activity on the farm without creating substantial financial loss due to the loss of structures used in operation. This will be advantageous to the local community in terms of possible work creation and exposure.

(d) Approved Structure Plan of the Municipality YES NO Please explain


(e) An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) adopted by the Department

(e.g. Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing

environmental management priorities for the area and if so, can it be justified in terms

of sustainability considerations?)


The proposed site is considered to be environmentally sensitive and therefore care should be taken in protecting the river.

(f) Any other Plans (e.g. Guide Plan) YES NO Please explain


Due to the importance of the Berg River with regards to the provision of freshwater to numerous communities

and industries deriving goods and services from the river system, a Berg River Improvement Plan was created

in order to improve the quality of the Berg River. The vision of the Berg River Improvement Plan include “Berg

River water of acceptable quality and quantity for sustainable farming, industrial development, human

consumption and recreation, as well as ecological health.” Ensuring sustainable farming, as well as promoting


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ecological health, are two elements which are applicable to the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank

of the Berg River. The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is therefore in line with the Berg

River Improvement Plan. Not only will the rehabilitation of the Berg River ensure sustainable farming practices,

but will also improve the ecological health of the proposed site due to the revegetation of indigenous

vegetation along the river bank.


The River Environmental Management Plan (ERMP) provides information for managers regarding the best

practices to deal with ecological problems. These best practices have been formulated to move the state of

the Berg River and other rivers within the municipality towards specific objectives. Target B and C of the ERMP

focus on the maintenance and re-instatement of buffers around rivers and wetlands. A recommended buffer

of 115m where gabions are suggested on either side of the Berg River is proposed between the Wemmershoek

River confluence and N1 Bridge (the Lower Foothill stony-cobble run zone). This assumes a river width of 30-

50m at high flow. The purpose of the buffer is to act as an ecological corridor and for the area to be kept free

of alien flora, agriculture, grazing, drainage and berms.

The proposed gabions will be within this buffer. However, the purpose of the gabions is to protect existing

infrastructure also located within the proposed buffer zone. It should be noted that the proposed

rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will contribute towards reducing impacts and fostering

ecological integrity within the buffer zone thereby improving the buffer zone. Furthermore, the removal of

alien vegetation and re-vegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation will improve and enhance the

ecological corridor at the specified sites where rehabilitation is proposed.

3. Is the land use (associated with the activity being applied for) considered within

the timeframe intended by the existing approved Spatial Development

Framework (SDF) agreed to by the relevant environmental authority (i.e. is the

proposed development in line with the projects and programmes identified as

priorities within the credible IDP)?



4. Should development, or if applicable, expansion of the town/area concerned

in terms of this land use (associated with the activity being applied for) occur

here at this point in time?


The proposed development will facilitate the economic growth of the town of Paarl during the construction phase. It should also be noted that existing infrastructure is threatened by the erosion, and rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River can therefore not be postponed, due to the fact that the extent of the erosion may lead to large scale losses in infrastructure and damage to the Berg River.

5. Does the community/area need the activity and the associated land use

concerned (is it a societal priority)? (This refers to the strategic as well as local

level (e.g. development is a national priority, but within a specific local context

it could be inappropriate.)


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The proposed development will ensure the protection of the property of the Digteby land owner. During the construction phase of the proposed development numerous job opportunities will be created which will benefit the people of Paarl.

6. Are the necessary services with adequate capacity currently available (at the

time of application), or must additional capacity be created to cater for the

development? (Confirmation by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be

attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix E.)


All services are currently available for the proposed development to take place.

7. Is this development provided for in the infrastructure planning of the municipality,

and if not what will the implication be on the infrastructure planning of the

municipality (priority and placement of services and opportunity costs)?

(Comment by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the

final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix E.)


The proposed development has no implication on the municipal infrastructure planning and it should also be noted that all upgrades will be conducted by the client.

8. Is this project part of a national programme to address an issue of national

concern or importance? YES NO Please explain

N/A

9. Do location factors favour this land use (associated with the activity applied for)

at this place? (This relates to the contextualisation of the proposed land use

on this site within its broader context.)


The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will lead to successful agricultural practices. Furthermore, the infrastructure which is threatened by the erosion will be preserved. Therefore, it should be noted that the location factors of the proposed rehabilitation supports the proposed development.

10. How will the activity or the land use associated with the activity applied for,

impact on sensitive natural and cultural areas (built and rural/natural

environment)?


The impact on sensitive natural and cultural areas will not be significant due to the fact that the proposed rehabilitation will support the natural functioning of the river. The manner in which the river bank will be rehabilitated furthermore support the conservation of the natural vegetation in the area. The surrounding land use has largely been transformed from natural to cultivated and hence the natural areas have been transformed due to previous activities. Furthermore, due to the transformation, the area is not considered to be of significant cultural value.

11. How will the development impact on people’s health and wellbeing (e.g. in

terms of noise, odours, visual character and sense of place, etc)? YES NO Please explain

There will be no significant impact on the health or wellbeing of the community of Paarl as the proposed location of the development is situated on a farm located out of the town. The site is located on the western bank of the Berg River on Digteby Farm. The development will thus not have an impact on the sense of place. The construction of the proposed development is also temporary, hence possible noise impacts are temporary in nature.

12. Will the proposed activity or the land use associated with the activity applied

for, result in unacceptable opportunity costs? YES NO Please explain

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The proposed development will arrest the erosion of the western bank of the Berg River and protect the infrastructure on the farm. Therefore, the activity will not result in unacceptable opportunity costs.

13. What will the cumulative impacts (positive and negative) of the proposed land

use associated with the activity applied for, be? YES NO Please explain

Noise

There will be a temporary noise impact due to the construction of the development, however this will be short lived. During the operational phase of the activity, there will be no noise impacts resulting from the proposed development.

Traffic

There will be construction vehicles moving to and from the proposed site during the construction phase of the development, however this will only be temporary until construction is complete. During the operational phase of the proposed development there will be no traffic impact.

Agriculture

There will be no negative impact on the surrounding agricultural landscape as the activity will be confined to the proposed location. The proposed rehabilitation will ensure continued agricultural practices by improving the quality of the Berg River.

Freshwater

The proposed site for development is situated on the western bank of the Berg River. Therefore, strict guidelines, as stipulated in the River Maintenance Management Plan and Environmental Management Plan will be followed in order to protect the water source.

Botanical

The surrounding vegetation has largely been transformed for agricultural purposes. There will however be efforts made to prohibit impacts on surrounding indigenous vegetation. Strict guidelines, as stipulated in the River Maintenance Management Plant and Environmental Management Plan will be followed in order to minimise impacts on surrounding vegetation.

Odour Impact

The proposed development will not cause any odour impacts.

Storm water and Surface water impacts

The proposed site is located on the western bank of the Berg River which is an important freshwater source in the Western Cape Province. It is proposed that the development take place during the dry summer months in order to minimise potential impacts on the Berg River. Therefore, potential impacts may occur during the construction phase of the activity. However, during the operational phase the construction of gabions on the western bank of the Berg River will not have an impact on the water source.

Dust Impact

It is proposed that the construction of the gabions take place during the dry, summer months. This can potentially lead to increased levels of dust during the construction of the gabions. Mitigation measures aimed at minimising adverse impacts associated with dust is set out in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). During the operational phase there will be no dust impacts.

Economic

The proposed development will have a positive short term economic impact on the town of Paarl as it will lead to the creation of job opportunities during the construction phase of the development.

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(17) Please describe how the general objectives of Integrated Environmental Management as set out in section 23 of

NEMA have been taken into account:

The Impact Assessment process conforms to the principles of Integrated Environmental Management (IEM).

The process attempts to identify all potential impacts as well as identify practical means by which the

developer can develop the necessary mitigation measures to manage these impacts. The EIA process is

structured in a way to identify environmental risks, lessen community conflict by actively promoting public

participation, propose the means to minimise adverse environmental affects and inform all relevant

government decision makers.

The impact assessment will ensure that all environmental assessments are integrated into all aspects of the

proposed project’s life cycle, construction/operation and decommissioning.

The EIA process identified all possible impacts. These impacts were evaluated to determine the actual impact

on the environment. The triple bottom approach was taken whereby the socio, economic and environmental

impacts were assessed. This also ensured that Section 2(3) of NEMA was adhered to.

Section 2(4) of NEMA was further taken into consideration to ensure that ecosystems and loss of biological

diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied.

The development will be constructed in such a way as to ensure that pollution and degradation is avoided by

the enforcing of the attached EMP

The cultural impacts were also assessed and an application was submitted to Heritage Western Cape.

It is not foreseen that National and Cultural heritage will be disturbed by the proposed development. This has

been confirmed by Heritage Western Cape in the ROD received on the 18th of April 2016. Please refer to

Addendum J

Waste will be minimized by the implementation of the attached Waste Minimization plan which forms part

of the project EMP.

Although few, the alternatives were also assessed as required by Section 23 (2) (b).

A full public participation as per Section 54 is being undertaken as part of this assessment.

The effects of the activities were assessed to ensure the environmental aspects receive adequate

consideration before construction actions are taken.

Social

The proposed development will have a positive social impact as there will be more employment opportunities made available in this region, something which is needed in today’s economy.

14. Is the development the best practicable environmental option for this

land/site? YES NO Please explain

In order to protect the existing infrastructure on the Digteby Farm the construction of gabions and re-vegetation of the banks is the best environmental option for this site. The use of either solely vegetation or solely gabions will not successfully arrest the erosion of the western bank of the Berg River.

15. What will the benefits be to society in general and to the local communities? Please explain

The proposed development will have a positive social impact as there will be more employment opportunities

made available in this region, something which is needed in today’s economy. Furthermore, the ecological

health of the Berg River will be ensured which benefits the society as a whole.

16. Any other need and desirability considerations related to the proposed activity? Please explain

N/A

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(18) Please describe how the principles of environmental management as set out in section 2 of NEMA have been

taken into account:

The EIA process identified all possible impacts. These impacts were evaluated to determine the actual impact

on the environment. The triple bottom approach was taken whereby socio, economic and environmental

impacts were assessed. This also ensured that Section 2(3) of NEMA was adhered to.

Section 2(4) of NEMA was further taken into consideration to ensure that ecosystems and loss of biological

diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied.

The proposed development will be conducted in such a way as to ensure that pollution and degradation is

avoided by enforcing the attached EMP.

Cultural impacts were assessed in an application to Heritage Western Cape. It is not foreseen that any

National or Cultural heritage will be disturbed by the proposed development. This has been confirmed by

Heritage Western Cape in the ROD received on the 18th of April 2016. Please refer to Addendum J

Waste will be minimized by the implementation of the attached Waste Minimization plan which forms part

of the project EMP.

Although few, the alternatives were also assessed as required by Section 23(2)b.

A full public participation as per Section 54 is being undertaken as part of this assessment.

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SECTION E: ALTERNATIVES

Please Note: Before completing this section, first consult this Department’s Guideline on Alternatives (August 2010)

available on the Department’s website (http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp).

“Alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purposes and

requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to –

(a) the property on which, or location where, it is proposed to undertake the activity;

(b) the type of activity to be undertaken;

I the design or layout of the activity;

(d) the technology to be used in the activity;

(e) the operational aspects of the activity; and

(f) the option of not implementing the activity.

The NEMA prescribes that the procedures for the investigation, assessment and communication of the potential

consequences or impacts of activities on the environment must, inter alia, with respect to every application for

environmental authorisation –

ensure that the general objectives of integrated environmental management laid down in NEMA and the

National Environmental Management Principles set out in NEMA are taken into account; and

include an investigation of the potential consequences or impacts of the alternatives to the activity on the

environment and assessment of the significance of those potential consequences or impacts, including the

option of not implementing the activity.

The general objective of integrated environmental management is, inter alia, to “identify, predict and evaluate the

actual and potential impact on the environment, socio-economic conditions and cultural heritage, the risks and

consequences and alternatives and options for mitigation of activities, with a view to minimising negative impacts,

maximising benefits, and promoting compliance with the principles of environmental management” set out in NEMA.

1. In the sections below, please provide a description of any indentified and considered alternatives and

alternatives that were found to be feasible and reasonable.

Please note: Detailed written proof the investigation of alternatives must be provided and motivation if no

reasonable or feasible alternatives exist.

(a) Property and location/site alternatives to avoid negative impacts, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and

maximise positive impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives exist:

The proposed site for development is situated on the western bank of the Berg River where erosion is threatening the existing infrastructure on the Digteby farm. The erosion is location specific and in order to arrest the erosion threatening the infrastructure, development should occur at the affected site. Therefore, location alternatives for the proposed development do not exist.

(b) Activity alternatives to avoid negative impacts, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and maximise positive

impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives exist:


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Two activity alternatives have been proposed for the rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River. The first activity alternative is to revegetate the bank with indigenous plant species and reduce the need to construct gabions. It is known that certain species which grow within the riparian zone will aid in stabilizing the banks. Species such as Prionium serratum would, if established, absorb some of the energy of the flow which is causing the erosion at the site.

The bank is already vertical and therefore in order to establish vegetation which would stabilize the bank, from the base to the top, requires shaping. This would entail either collapsing the vertical bank or bringing in top soil to create a more gradual slope down to the river’s edge. The slope could then be revegetated but this activity would impact negatively on the existing structures present.

Plants which are planted in the summer struggle to survive the heat and dryness. It is best to plant native plants at different times of the year depending on the lateral zone being planted.

Flows within the Berg River are relatively controlled as a result of the Berg River Dam. However, should a large flood result in the dam being overtopped in the first winter after planting, it is likely that the plants will be washed away and will not aid in arresting further erosion. It cannot be guaranteed that revegetation alone would arrest the erosion at the site and is therefore not the preferred alternative.

The second activity alternative proposed is to stabilise the river bank using rip-rap. The use of rip-rap entails stabilising the river bank by depositing rocks (mostly granite and limestone) along the river bank. The aim of rip-rap is to absorb the impact of the water before the water impacts the river bank thereby reducing the force of the water on the eroding river bank. Although this alternative is proposed, the use of gabions in conjunction with active revegetation using indigenous species is preferred due to the fact that the preferred alternative will be structurally stable and hence be able to withstand the force of the water during a flooding event. Furthermore, the use of active re-vegetation as part of the preferred alternative will address the problem associated with the alien vegetation currently present on the river bank. The preferred alternative is therefore more effective with regards to stabilising the river bank.

(c) Design or layout alternatives to avoid negative impacts, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and maximise

positive impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives exist:

There are no layout alternatives for the proposed development due to the fact that the erosion is site specific and therefore only one layout exists.

(d) Technology alternatives (e.g. to reduce resource demand and resource use efficiency) to avoid negative impacts,

mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and maximise positive impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or

feasible alternatives exist:

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Alternative 2


Alternative 3


Alternative 4

The forth alternative for the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is to use rip-rap in order to stabilise the river bank. The use of rip-rap entails stabilising the river bank by depositing rocks (mostly granite and limestone) along the river bank. The aim of rip-rap is to absorb the impact of the water before the water impacts the river bank thereby reducing the force of the water on the eroding river bank. Although this alternative is proposed, the use of gabions in conjunction with active revegetation using indigenous species is preferred due to the fact that the preferred alternative will be structurally stable and hence be able to withstand the force of the water during a flooding event. Furthermore, the use of active re-vegetation as part of the rehabilitation process will address the problem associated with the alien vegetation currently present on the river bank. The preferred alternative is therefore more effective with regards to stabilising the river bank.

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(e) Operational alternatives to avoid negative impacts, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and maximise

positive impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives exist:

There are no operational alternatives for the proposed development.

(f) the option of not implementing the activity (the No-Go Option):

If no measures are taken to arrest the erosion at the site it has the potential to continue and eventually undercut the properties fence and road. Although this is undesirable, the cost to the land owner of establishing a new access road further from the river should be compared to the cost of constructing gabions to arrest the erosion. Should the erosion continue beyond the road it would threaten a number of buildings on the property.

(g) Other alternatives to avoid negative impacts, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts and maximise positive

impacts, or detailed motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives exist:

N/A

(h) Please provide a summary of the alternatives investigated and the outcomes of such investigation:

Please note: If no feasible and reasonable alternatives exist, the description and proof of the investigation of

alternatives, together with motivation of why no feasible or reasonable alternatives exist, must be provided.

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Alternative 2


Alternative 3


Alternative 4

The forth alternative for the proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River is to use rip-rap in order to stabilise the river bank. The use of rip-rap entails stabilising the river bank by depositing rocks (mostly granite and limestone) along the river bank. The aim of rip-rap is to absorb the impact of the water before the water impacts the river bank thereby reducing the force of the water on the eroding river bank. Although this alternative is proposed, the use of gabions in conjunction with active revegetation using indigenous species is preferred due to the fact that the preferred alternative will be structurally stable and hence be able to withstand the force of the water during a flooding event. Furthermore, the use of active re-vegetation as part of the preferred alternative will address the problem associated with the alien vegetation currently present on the river bank. The preferred alternative is therefore more effective with regards to stabilising the river bank.

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SECTION F: IMPACT ASSESSMENT, MANAGEMENT,

MITIGATION AND MONITORING MEASURES

Please note: The information in this section must be duplicated for all the feasible and reasonable alternatives (where

relevant).

1. PLEASE DESCRIBE THE MANNER IN WHICH THE DEVELOPMENT WILL IMPACT ON THE

FOLLOWING ASPECTS:

(a) Geographical and physical aspects:

The proposed development will not have a large visual impact due to the fact that the proposed site is located on an agricultural farm. The proposed development not only include the construction of gabions, but also entails the re-vegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation. The re-vegetation of the river bank will have numerous positive impacts, ranging from the stabilization of the bank to aesthetic benefits.

(b) Biological aspects:

Will the development have an impact on critical biodiversity areas (CBAs) or ecological support areas

(CSAs)? YES NO

If yes, please describe: It should be noted that although elements of a) Azonal Fynbos Riparian Vegetation transition to Cape Lowland Alluvial Vegetation; b) Swartland Alluvium Fynbos; and c) Swartland Shale Renosterveld (being outside of the riparian zone), occur in places, the vegetation has mostly been transformed. Furthermore, the proposed project is to rehabilitate the western bank of the Berg River. Therefore, the proposed project will improve the surrounding vegetation through the revegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation. Critical biodiversity areas will therefore be enhanced and not degraded.

Will the development have an impact on terrestrial vegetation, or aquatic ecosystems (wetlands,

estuaries or the coastline)? YES NO

If yes, please describe: In order to conduct the necessary maintenance, it might be necessary to re-locate and/or brush-cut vegetation in localised areas, both along the access road and where the work is to commence.

Will the development have an impact on any populations of threatened plant or animal species,

and/or on any habitat that may contain a unique signature of plant or animal species? YES NO

If yes, please describe:

Please describe the manner in which any other biological aspects will be impacted:

It should be noted that although small scale negative impacts on fauna and flora may be experienced during the construction phase of the rehabilitation, the long term effects of the rehabilitation will enhance the natural environment. Numerous mitigation measures was set out in the EMP in order to protect flora and fauna at the proposed site. Please refer to the EMP for mitigation measures relating to fauna and flora. The removal of alien vegetation and revegetation of indigenous vegetation will therefore ultimately result in a long term improvement on both plant and animal species.

The proposed rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will therefore, in the long term, not have adverse effects on plant or animal species, but will instead enhance the natural environment.

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(c) Socio-Economic aspects:

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? Not known at

this stage

What is the expected yearly income or contribution to the economy that will be generated by

or as a result of the activity?

Not known at

this stage

Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES NO

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the construction phase of the

activity?

Not known at

this stage

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the construction phase? Not known at

this stage

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? N/A

How will this be ensured and monitored (please explain):

Not applicable to the proposed project.

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the operational

phase of the activity?

Not known at

this stage

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10 years? Not known at

this stage

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? N/A

How will this be ensured and monitored (please explain):

Not applicable to the proposed project.

Any other information related to the manner in which the socio-economic aspects will be impacted:

N/A

(d) Cultural and historic aspects:

No cultural or historical aspects will be affected due to the proposed development. This has been confirmed

by Heritage Western Cape on the 18th of April 2016. Please refer to Addendum J for the ROD received.

2. WASTE AND EMISSIONS

(a) Waste (including effluent) management

Will the activity produce waste (including rubble) during the construction phase? YES NO

If yes, indicate the types of waste (actual type of waste, e.g. oil, and whether hazardous or not) and

estimated quantity per type?

Building rubble;

None of this waste will be hazardous.

Not known at

this stage

Will the activity produce waste during its operational phase? YES NO

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If yes, indicate the types of waste (actual type of waste, e.g. oil, and whether hazardous or not) and

estimated quantity per type?

N/A

Where and how will the waste be treated / disposed of (describe)?

All waste generated at the proposed site for development will be stored in large storage bins and the waste will be disposed of at a registered waste disposal site.

If yes, indicate the types of waste (actual type of waste, e.g. oil, and whether hazardous or not) and estimated quantity per

type per phase of the development?

Building rubble;

Quantities not known at this stage.

Has the municipality or relevant authority confirmed that sufficient capacity exist for treating / disposing of

the waste to be generated by this activity(ies)? If yes, provide written confirmation from Municipality or

relevant authority

YES NO

Will the activity produce waste that will be treated and/or disposed of at another facility other than into a

municipal waste stream? YES NO

If yes, has this facility confirmed that sufficient capacity exist for treating / disposing of the waste to be

generated by this activity(ies)? Provide written confirmation from the facility and provide the following

particulars of the facility: -

YES NO

Does the facility have an operating license? (If yes, please attach a copy of the license.)

N/A YES NO

Facility name:

Contact person:

Postal address:

Postal code:

Telephone: Cell:

E-mail: Fax:

Describe the measures that will be taken to reduce, reuse or recycle waste:

Please refer to the WASTE, WATER USE AND ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION MINIMIZATION PLAN AS PART OF THE EMP.

(b) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity produce emissions that will be disposed of into the atmosphere? YES NO

If yes, does it require approval in terms of relevant legislation? YES NO

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Describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration and how it will be treated/mitigated:

N/A

3. WATER USE

Please indicate the source(s) of water for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es)

Municipal Water board Groundwater River, Stream,

Dam or Lake Other The activity will not use water

If water is to be extracted from a groundwater source, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate

the volume that will be extracted per month: m3

Please provide proof of assurance of water supply (e.g. Letter of confirmation from municipality / water user associations, yield

of borehole)

Does the activity require a water use permit / license from DWS? YES NO

If yes, please submit the necessary application to Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this application.

Describe the measures that will be taken to reduce water demand, and measures to reuse or recycle water:


4. POWER SUPPLY

Please indicate the source of power supply eg. Municipality / Eskom / Renewable energy source

Municipal

If power supply is not available, where will power be sourced from?

N/A

5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient:


Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity,

if any:

Please refer to the energy reduction guideline as part of the EMP.

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6. DESCRIPTION AND ASSESSMENT OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACTS PRIOR TO AND AFTER

MITIGATION

Please note: While sections are provided for impacts on certain aspects of the environment and certain impacts,

the sections should also be copied and completed for all other impacts.

(a) Impacts that may result from the planning, design and construction phase (briefly describe and compare the

potential impacts (as appropriate), significance rating of impacts, proposed mitigation and significance rating of

impacts after mitigation that are likely to occur as a result of the planning, design and construction phase.

Potential impacts on geographical and physical

aspects:

Nature of impact: Impacts on existing vegetation

Extent and duration of impact: Site & Short Term

Probability of occurrence: Definite

Degree to which the impact can be reversed: High

Degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable

loss of resources: Possible

Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: High

Significance rating of impact prior to mitigation

(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) High

Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: High

Proposed mitigation:

The access road needs to be created at the least sensitive area

identified.

Prior to maintenance activities, plants that are small enough to easily

be replanted, which occur within the area to be impacted (both the

access route and the works area), need to be removed and re-

planted in an identified adjacent bare area. Larger shrubs, which

cannot be removed and re-planted, need to be brush cut to enable

natural re-sprouting after maintenance activities.

Only one access road must be used. Where multiple access is

required, the same access route is to be used. The maintenance team

needs to strictly stay on this access road. Adjacent natural areas

needs to be clearly cordoned off and seen as no-go areas.

The watercourse needs to be clearly seen as a “no-go area”.

Machinery will not be allowed to drive in the watercourse. After

maintenance activities, the disturbed areas needs to be ripped,

levelled and shaped and stabilized in such a way that it follows the

natural slope and contour of the site.

The disturbed section needs to be re-planted with plants from the list

provided as soon as possible.

Cumulative impact post mitigation: Low

Significance rating of impact after mitigation

(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) Low

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Potential impact on biological aspects:

Nature of impact: Impacts on biological aspects

Extent and duration of impact: Site & Short term

Probability of occurrence: Improbable



loss of resources: Possible

Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: Medium


(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) Medium



All activities on site must comply with:

The regulations of the Animal Protection Act, 1962 (Act No. 71 of

1962); and Marine Living Resources Act, 1998 (Act No. 18 of 1998).

All construction workers must be informed that the intentional killing of

any animal is not permitted as faunal species are a benefit to society.

Poaching is illegal and it must be a condition of employment that any

employee caught poaching will be dismissed. Employees must be

trained on how to deal with fauna species as intentional killing will not

be tolerated. In the case of a problem animal e.g. a large snake a

specialist must be called in to safely relocate the animal if the EO or

ECO is not able to.

All possible sensitive endemic faunal species within the maintenance

footprint must be rescued and relocated to the surrounding natural

area.

Adjacent natural areas need to be clearly cordoned off and seen as

no-go areas. This needs to be done in accordance with the ECO

before any maintenance activities may commence.

Only one access road must be used. Where multiple access is

required, the same access route is to be used. The maintenance team

needs to strictly stay on this access road. Adjacent natural areas

needs to be clearly cordoned off and seen as no-go areas.




Potential impacts on socio-economic aspects:

Nature of impact: Provision of temporary jobs.

Extent and duration of impact: Short term – construction.


Degree to which the impact can be reversed: N/A


loss of resources: N/A

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Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: Low Positive


(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) Low Positive

Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: N/A, do not want to mitigate positive impacts.

Proposed mitigation: N/A, do not want to mitigate positive impacts.

Cumulative impact post mitigation: Low Positive



Potential impacts on cultural-historical aspects:

Nature of impact: No impacts of the cultural/historical aspects are foreseen.

Extent and duration of impact: Long term

Probability of occurrence: Improbable



loss of resources: Highly unlikely

Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: Low



Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: Low


No archaeological or historical material of any significance was

noted on site.

In terms of the National Heritage Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999),

should any archaeological artefacts be exposed during

construction activities, work on the area where the artefacts were

found shall cease immediately and the ECO as well as the Local

Council shall be notified within 24 hours.

Upon receipt of such notification, the ECO will arrange for the

excavation to be examined by an Archaeologist.

Under no circumstances shall archaeological artefacts be removed,

destroyed or interfered with.

Any archaeological sites exposed during demolition or construction

activities must not be disturbed prior to authorisation by the Heritage

Western Cape and/or the South African Heritage Resources Agency

on the appropriate provincial heritage resource agency.




Potential noise impacts:

Nature of impact: Construction activities.

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Extent and duration of impact: Short term – Construction activities will last for a few months.


Degree to which the impact can be reversed: Medium


loss of resources: Low



(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) Low to Medium

Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: Low to Medium


All construction vehicles must be in a good working order to reduce

possible noise pollution.

Work hours during the construction phase shall be strictly enforced

unless permission is given (07H00 – 18H00). Permission shall not be

granted without consultation with the local industries and businesses

by the EO. No work to be done on Sundays.

Noise reduction is essential and Contractors shall endeavour to limit

unnecessary noise, especially loud talking, shouting or whistling,

radios, sirens or hooters, motor revving, etc. The use of silent

compressors is a specific requirement. All machinery to be muffed

where possible.

Noisy activities shall take place only during working hours. The EO

must inform the residents of houses and businesses adjacent to the

development in writing 24 hours prior to any planned activities that will

be unusually noisy or any other activities that could reasonably have

an impact on the adjacent sites. These activities could include, but

are not limited to use of pneumatic jack-hammers and compressors

etc. No noise louder than 70dB from the ambient noise level.

Machinery and equipment on site must be maintained so as to avoid

any unnecessary noises.




Potential visual impacts:

Nature of impact: Construction activities and operational activities

Extent and duration of impact: Construction - Short term

Operational – Long term (Not significant)








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Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: Low to Medium


Shade cloth must be utilised to conceal and minimise the visual

impact of contractor camps, lay down and storage areas.

Rubble and litter must be removed every two weeks or more often

as the need arises and be disposed of at a registered landfill site as

designated by the Local Municipality’s , Solid Waste removal

department.

Landscaping must enhance the aesthetic appeal of the

development.




Potential Dust fall impacts:

Nature of impact: Occurrence of air pollution in the form of dust due to construction

activities.

Extent and duration of impact: Short term

Probability of occurrence: Highly Likely




Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: Medium


(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) Medium



It is imperative that method statements regarding dust control be

supplied to the ECO by the contractor prior to the commencement of

any construction activities. Dust management and dust suppression

during the construction phase is deemed very important. The method

statement must provide information on the proposed source of water

to be utilised and the details of the licenses acquired for such usage.

Potable water cannot (as far as possible) be used as a means of dust

suppression, alternative measures must be sourced. The use of ‘grey’

water must be investigated as an alternative. The contractor will be

responsible to source this water and obtain the required approvals.

The construction camp shall be watered during dry and windy

conditions to control dust fallout.

Dust production must be controlled by regular watering of roads and

works area, should the need arise.

Stockpiles should be covered when not in use to prevent the

occurrence of dust in windy situations.




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(b) Impacts that may result from the operational phase (briefly describe and compare the potential impacts (as

appropriate), significance rating of impacts, proposed mitigation and significance rating of impacts after

mitigation that are likely to occur as a result of the operational phase.

Potential impacts on the geographical and physical

aspects:

Nature of impact: Appearance of the site due to infrastructure constructed

Extent and duration of impact: Permanent





Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: High Positive


(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) High Positive

Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: Medium


After construction the disturbed sections needs to be ripped, levelled,

shaped and stabilized in such a way that it blends in with the natural

contour of the site and surrounding area.

Since some of the slopes might be steep, erosion control, along with

preservation of the topsoil would be very important for rehabilitation.

Stabilization should be done by ensuring that the velocity of surface

water runoff is reduced through naturally aligned terracing. Terracing

can be done by using hand labour to create natural terraces.

The topsoil then needs to be spread over the naturally looking

prepared slopes.

Rehabilitated areas needs to be watered as the need arises for the first

3 months until the plants have successfully established.




Potential impact biological aspects:

Nature of impact: Impacts on biological aspects

Extent and duration of impact: N/A

Probability of occurrence: N/A




Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: N/A

55


(Low, Medium, Medium-High, High, or Very-High) N/A

Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: N/A

Proposed mitigation: N/A

Cumulative impact post mitigation: N/A



56

Potential impacts on the socio-economic aspects:

Nature of impact: Positive impacts as this project will provide temporary jobs during the

construction phase.

Extent and duration of impact: Short term.





Cumulative impact prior to mitigation: Low Positive



Degree to which the impact can be mitigated: N/A, do not want to mitigate positive impacts.

Proposed mitigation: N/A, do not want to mitigate positive impacts.




Potential noise impacts:

Nature of impact:

The noise impacts from the construction trucks will only have an

impact during the construction phase of the development. No noise

will be generated during the operational phase.

Extent and duration of impact: Short term









Proposed mitigation: N/A.




Potential visual impacts:

Nature of impact: Constructed gabions and re-vegetation of the river bank.

Extent and duration of impact: Long term

57




loss of resources: Highly unlikely





Proposed mitigation: Indigenous vegetation will be planted to stabilize the river bank and

replace alien vegetation at the site.




Potential storm water impacts:

Nature of impact: N/A














Potential Dust fall impacts:







58









(c) Impacts that may result from the decommissioning and closure phase (briefly describe and compare the potential impacts (as

appropriate), significance rating of impacts, proposed mitigation and significance rating of impacts after mitigation that are

likely to occur as a result of the decommissioning and closure phase.

Potential impacts on the geographical and physical

aspects: N/A















Potential impact biological aspects: N/A








59








Potential impacts on the socio-economic aspects: N/A















Potential impacts on the cultural-historical aspects: N/A












60




Potential noise impacts: N/A















Potential visual impacts: N/A















(d) Any other impacts:

61

Potential impact: N/A















62

7. SPECIALIST INPUTS/STUDIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Please note: Specialist inputs/studies must be attached to this report as Appendix G. Also take into account the Department’s

Guidelines on the Involvement of Specialists in EIA Processes available on the Department’s website

(http://www.capegateway.gov.za/eadp).

Specialist inputs/studies and recommendations:

GNEC, in our professional capacity as experienced and qualified environmental consultants, believe that the proposed project be issued a positive environmental authorisation; however this authorisation must be accompanied with the following requirements:

Appointment of an Environmental Control Officer (ECO) to oversee compliance with the EMP.

Weekly site audits during construction to ensure compliance and to advise on any mitigation measures necessary to negate any environmental degradation.

The ECO must compile monthly ECO Audit Reports on the state of the environment and areas of compliance and non-compliance with the EMP. These reports must be made available to DEA&DP and the Drakenstein Municipality.

Fines should be included in the EMP to ensure full compliance to the EMP.

Indigenous flora should be used for rehabilitation purposes.

Monitoring of the rehabilitation should be conducted after rehabilitation is completed. Therefore the riparian rehabilitation specialist, present on the site during initial plantings, should conduct follow up monitoring annually for at least three years after completion of the rehabilitation. Monitoring during the operational phase should also include the monitoring of changes in erosion and sediment deposition at least 1 km upstream and downstream of the site. Photographic records should be taken at designated points.

8. IMPACT SUMMARY

Please provide a summary of all the above impacts.

The surrounding land use is predominantly agricultural. Therefore, most of the land cover has been transformed from natural vegetation to cultivated. Therefore the proposed development will not have a large impact on the flora on the proposed site. Furthermore, indigenous vegetation will be planted along the river bank in order to stabilize the bank which will result in the clearing of alien vegetation.

No artefacts of historical or archaeological significance is expected to occur on the site. This was confirmed by Heritage Western Cape. Please refer to Addendum J for the Record of Decision from Heritage Western Cape.

Visual impact on the surrounding area should be very limited. The possible negative impacts experienced during the construction phase will only be temporary. No visual impacts during the operational phase of the activity are foreseen.

Noise impacts during the construction phase, due to construction activities, can be expected but this will however only be temporary in nature. There will be no noise impacts during the operational phase of the development.

No odour impact on the surrounding areas is expected during both the construction and operational phase.

During the construction phase of the proposed development, construction vehicles may cause an increase in traffic, but the impact is only short term. No negative impact to the traffic load is expected during the operational phase of the project.

The proposed development is set to take place during the dry summer months so as to reduce any impact on the Berg River. The construction of the gabions will not take place on site which lowers any potential impacts on the water source. The water source will also be seen as a no-go area for construction workers, hence the quality of the water will not be affected. During the operational phase the proposed development will have no impact on the Berg River.


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9. OTHER MANAGEMENT, MITIGATION AND MONITORING MEASURES

(a) Over and above the mitigation measures described in Section 6 above, please indicate any additional management, mitigation

and monitoring measures.

See attached EMP for complete mitigation measures for the proposed development.

(b) Describe the ability of the applicant to implement the management, mitigation and monitoring measures.

The Kevin Maree Trust is a successful agricultural company and will be financially and managerially able to construct and manage the proposed rehabilitation.

Please note: A draft ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME must be attached this report as Appendix H.

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SECTION G: ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGIES AND CRITERIA,

GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE, UNDERLAYING ASSUMPTIONS AND

UNCERTAINTIES

(a) Please describe adequacy of the assessment methods used.

The assessment methods used for the proposed project were adequate as all possible impacts were assessed in detail.

(b) Please describe the assessment criteria used.

The criteria for the description and assessment of environmental impacts were drawn from the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No.107 of 1998).

The level of detail was somewhat fine-tuned by assigning specific values to each impact. In order to establish a coherent framework within which all impacts could be objectively assessed it is necessary to establish a rating system, which is consistent throughout all criteria. For such purposes each aspect was assigned a value, ranging from 1-5, depending on its definition.

H-2.1 Potential Impact

This is an appraisal of the type of effect the proposed activity would have on the affected environmental component. Its description should include what is being affected and how it is being affected.

H-2.2 Extent

The physical and spatial scale of the impact is classified as:

Local

The impacted area extends only as far as the activity, e.g. a footprint.

Site

The impact could affect the whole, or a measurable portion of the site.

Regional

The impact could affect the area including the neighbouring erven and/or farms, the transport routes and the adjoining towns.

H-2.3 Duration

The lifetime of the impact, which is measured in relation to the lifetime of the proposed base.

Short term

The impact will either disappear with mitigation or will be mitigated through a natural process in a period shorter than any of the phases.

Medium term

The impact will last up to the end of the phases, where after it will be entirely negated.

Long term

The impact will continue or last for the entire operational lifetime of the Development, but will be mitigated by direct human action or by natural processes thereafter.

Permanent

This is the only class of impact, which will be non-transitory. Mitigation either by man or natural process will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient.

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H-2.4 Intensity

The intensity of the impact is considered here by examining whether the impact is destructive or benign, whether it destroys the impacted environment, alters its functioning, or slightly alters the environment itself. These are rated as:

Low

The impact alters the affected environment in such a way that the natural processes or functions are not affected.

Medium

The affected environment is altered, but functions and processes continue, albeit in a modified way.

High

Function or process of the affected environment is disturbed to the extent where it temporarily or permanently ceases.

This will be a relative evaluation within the context of all the activities and the other impacts within the framework of the project.

H-2.5 Probability

This describes the likelihood of the impacts actually occurring. The impact may occur for any length of time during the life cycle of the activity, and not at any given time. The classes are rated as follows:

Improbable

The possibility of the impact occurring is none, due either to the circumstances, design or experience.

Possible

The possibility of the impact occurring is very low, due either to the circumstances, design or experience.

Likely

There is a possibility that the impact will occur to the extent that provisions must therefore be made.

Highly Likely

It is most likely that the impacts will occur at some stage of the Development. Plans must be drawn up before carrying out the activity.

Definite

The impact will take place regardless of any prevention plans, and only mitigation actions or contingency plans to contain the effect can be relied on.

H-2.6 Determination of Significance – Without Mitigation

Significance is determined through a synthesis of impact characteristics, and is an indication of the importance of the impact in terms of both physical extent and time scale. The significance of the impact “without mitigation” is the prime determinant of the nature and degree of mitigation required. Where the impact is positive, significance is noted as “positive”. Significance is rated on the following scale:

No significance

The impact is not substantial and does not require any mitigation action.

Low

The impact is of little importance, but may require limited mitigation.

Medium

The impact is of importance and is therefore considered to have a negative impact. Mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels.

High

The impact is of great importance. Failure to mitigate, with the objective of reducing the impact to acceptable levels, could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable. Mitigation is therefore essential.

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H-2.7 Determination of Significance – With Mitigation

Significance is determined through a synthesis of impact characteristics. It is an indication of the importance of the impact in terms of both physical extent and time scale, and therefore indicates the level of mitigation required. In this case the prediction refers to the foreseeable significance of the impact after the successful implementation of the suggested mitigation measures. Significance with mitigation is rated on the following scale:

No significance

The impact will be mitigated to the point where it is regarded to be insubstantial.

Low

The impact will be mitigated to the point where it is of limited importance.

Low to medium

The impact is of importance, however, through the implementation of the correct mitigation measures such potential impacts can be reduced to acceptable levels.

Medium

Notwithstanding the successful implementation of the mitigation measures, to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels, the negative impact will remain of significance. However, taken within the overall context of the project, the persistent impact does not constitute a fatal flaw.

Medium to high

The impact is of great importance. Through implementing the correct mitigation measures the negative impacts will be reduced to acceptable levels.

High

The impact is of great importance. Mitigation of the impact is not possible on a cost-effective basis. The impact continues to be of great importance, and, taken within the overall context of the project, is considered to be a fatal flaw in the project proposal. This could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable.

(c) Please describe the gaps in knowledge.

Due to the fact that the site as well as the neighbouring areas have been severely disturbed by agricultural practices it is difficult to determine whether there are any archaeological artifacts present on the site, however this is highly unlikely.

(d) Please describe the underlying assumptions.

At present it is assumed that the proposed project will not have a significant impact on any cultural or archaeological artifacts in the area.

(e) Please describe the uncertainties.

The amount of temporary/permanent employees is currently uncertain. People will be appointed as required.

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SECTION H: RECOMMENDATION OF THE EAP

In my view (EAP), the information contained in this application form and the documentation attached hereto

is sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for. YES NO

If “NO”, list the aspects that should be further assessed through additional specialist input/assessment or whether this application

must be subjected to a Scoping & EIR process before a decision can be made:

N/A

If “YES”, please indicate below whether in your opinion the activity should or should not be authorised:

Activity should be authorised: YES NO

Please provide reasons for your opinion

Existing infrastructure on the Digteby farm is currently at risk due to the erosion of the western bank of the Berg River. The continuous construction of gabions for a distance of 265m, together with the indigenous revegetation of the western bank is the preferred option to arrest erosion. Vegetation with a strong root system is preferred.

There will be little visual impact due to the fact that the site of the proposed development is outside of the urban edge and therefore removed from any close residential development. During the construction phase of the proposed development job opportunities will be created which holds positive socio-economic impacts for the town of Paarl.

With effective mitigation, the impact on the surrounding landscapes due to the loss of flora on the proposed site will not be significant. The re-vegetation of the river bank with indigenous vegetation will stabilize the river bank and replace the alien vegetation which is currently present on site.

Attention should be focused on the fact that existing infrastructure is threatened by the erosion, and rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River can therefore not be postponed, due to the fact that the extent of the erosion may lead to large scale losses in infrastructure and damage to the Berg River. The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will ensure that the quality of the Berg River is preserved, thereby ensuring that sustainable farming practices continue. The rehabilitation of the western bank of the Berg River will ultimately be to the benefit of the larger society.

If you are of the opinion that the activity should be authorised, then please provide any conditions, including mitigation measures

that should in your view be considered for inclusion in an authorisation.

1. Compliance with the EMP.

2. Appointment of an Environmental Control Officer (ECO) to oversee compliance with the EMP and to advise on any mitigation measures necessary to negate any environmental degradation.

3. Weekly site audits during construction to ensure compliance and to advise on any mitigation measures necessary to negate any environmental degradation.

4. The ECO must compile monthly ECO Audit Reports on the state of the environment and areas of compliance and non-compliance with the EMP. These reports must be made available to DEA&DP should the department request to view them.

5. Construction must be carried out during the dry season (December to March) and at a time when planned summer freshets are not released from the Berg River Dam.

6. Engineers must construct the gabions to ensure that the footing of the structure is sound and cannot be undercut by the river; and to ensure that the backing of the structure is sound and the river cannot flow between the gabions and the western bank.

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7. Appropriate indigenous species should be planted along the base of the gabions, upstream, above and at the downstream end of the gabions to aid in the bank stabilization.

8. The selection of species and the specific placement of the plants along the bank should be advised by a specialist.

9. Monitoring of the rehabilitation should be conducted after rehabilitation is completed. Therefore the riparian rehabilitation specialist, present on the site during initial plantings, should conduct follow up monitoring annually for at least three years after completion of the rehabilitation. Monitoring during the operational phase should also include the monitoring of changes in erosion and sediment deposition at least 1 km upstream and downstream of the site. Photographic records should be taken at designated points.

Duration and Validity:

Environmental authorisations are usually granted for a period of three years from the date of issue. Should a longer period be

required, the applicant/EAP is requested to provide a detailed motivation on what the period of validity should be.

N/A

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SECTION I: APPENDICES

The following appendices must be attached to this report:

Appendix

Tick the box

if Appendix

is attached

Appendix A: Locality map

Appendix B: Site plan(s)

Appendix C: Photographs

Appendix D: Biodiversity overlay map

Appendix E: Permit(s) / license(s) from any other organ of state including service

letters from the municipality

Appendix F:

Public participation information: including a copy of the register of

interested and affected parties, the comments and responses report,

proof of notices, advertisements and any other public participation

information as required in Section C above.

Appendix G: Specialist Report(s)

Appendix H : Environmental Management Progamme

Appendix I: Additional information related to listed waste management activities (if

applicable) N/A

Appendix J: Any Other (if applicable) (describe) N/A

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THE INDEPENDENT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER (EAP)

I, Euonell Grundling, as the appointed independent environmental practitioner (“EAP”) hereby declare

that I:

act/ed as the independent EAP in this application;

regard the information contained in this report to be true and correct, and

do not have and will not have any financial interest in the undertaking of the activity, other than

remuneration for work performed in terms of the NEMA, the Environmental Impact Assessment

Regulations, 2010 and any specific environmental management Act;

have and will not have no vested interest in the proposed activity proceeding;

have disclosed, to the applicant and competent authority, any material information that have or may

have the potential to influence the decision of the competent authority or the objectivity of any

report, plan or document required in terms of the NEMA, the Environmental Impact Assessment

Regulations, 2010 and any specific environmental management Act;

am fully aware of and meet the responsibilities in terms of NEMA, the Environmental Impact

Assessment Regulations, 2010 (specifically in terms of regulation 17 of GN No. R. 543) and any specific

environmental management Act, and that failure to comply with these requirements may constitute

and result in disqualification;

have ensured that information containing all relevant facts in respect of the application was

distributed or made available to interested and affected parties and the public and that participation

by interested and affected parties was facilitated in such a manner that all interested and affected

parties were provided with a reasonable opportunity to participate and to provide comments;

have ensured that the comments of all interested and affected parties were considered, recorded

and submitted to the competent authority in respect of the application;

have kept a register of all interested and affected parties that participated in the public participation

process;

have provided the competent authority with access to all information at my disposal regarding the

application, whether such information is favourable to the applicant or not; and

am aware that a false declaration is an offence in terms of regulation 71 of GN No. R. 543.

Note: The terms of reference must be attached.

Signature of the environmental assessment practitioner:

Guillaume Nel Environmental Consultants

Name of company:

31/01/2017

Date:

2 Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010) · 2nd Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010)...

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Transcript of 2 Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010) · 2nd Draft BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (AUGUST 2010)...