TITLE : Plan Of Study For EIA AUTHORS : B. Dalton Nemai ...

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TITLE : Plan Of Study For EIA AUTHORS : B. Dalton Nemai Consulting C. Chidley Nemai Consulting STUDY NAME : Hazelmere Dam Raising EIA REPORT STATUS : Final DATE : April 2007 DEAT REF. NO. N/A KZN DAEA REF. NO.: EIA/2314 Approved By Nemai Consulting C.C. ___________________________________ C.T. Chidley Project Leader

Transcript of TITLE : Plan Of Study For EIA AUTHORS : B. Dalton Nemai ...

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TITLE : Plan Of Study For EIA

AUTHORS : B. Dalton Nemai Consulting

C. Chidley Nemai Consulting

STUDY NAME : Hazelmere Dam Raising EIA

REPORT STATUS : Final

DATE : April 2007

DEAT REF. NO. N/A

KZN DAEA REF. NO.: EIA/2314

Approved By Nemai Consulting C.C. ___________________________________ C.T. Chidley Project Leader

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. BACKGROUND TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT................................................................. 1

1.1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 1

1.2. DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA ........................................................................ 5

2. PURPOSE OF THIS PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIR.................................................................. 7

2.1. LISTED ACTIVITIES ...................................................................................................... 8

3. DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT AND CONSULTANT.......................................................... 10

3.1. APPLICANT ................................................................................................................. 10

3.2. INDEPENDENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT.................................................. 10

4. ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PROCESS TO DATE............................................. 11

4.1. ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PROCESS PRIOR TO 9TH FEBRUARY 2007

12

4.2. ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PROCESS AFTER THE 9TH FEBRUARY 2007

12

5. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS.................................................. 14

5.1. SUMMARY OF ISSUES............................................................................................... 14

5.2. RANKING OF ISSUES................................................................................................. 19

5.3. REASONABLE PROJECT ALTERNATIVES IDENTIFIED AND CONSIDERED........ 19

5.4. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED ................................................................. 20

6. EIA METHODOLOGY........................................................................................................... 40

6.1. CONSULTATION WITH AUTHORITIES ..................................................................... 40

6.2. UPDATE SPECIALIST STUDIES ................................................................................ 41

6.3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS (PPP) .............................................................. 41

6.4. EIR ............................................................................................................................... 44

7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................................... 51

7.1. NEED FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.................................................................. 51

7.2. WAY FORWARD.......................................................................................................... 51

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LIST OF TABLES Table 5.1 Critical impacts and suggested mitigation measures identified from a SIA .................. 30

Table 5.2 Estimated Average Monthly Flow Requirements for the Mdloti Estuary ....................... 37

Table 6.1 Assessment criteria for the evaluation of impacts......................................................... 45

Table 6.2 Definition of significance ratings.................................................................................... 46

Table 6.3 Definition of probability ratings ...................................................................................... 47

Table 6.4 Definition of confidence ratings ..................................................................................... 47

Table 6.5 Expected Time Frames for the EIA process for the Raising of Hazelmere Dam.......... 49

Table 7.1 Summary of Section 5.4: additional information required ............................................. 51

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LIST OF ACRONYMS

BIA Biophysical Impact Assessment

BID Background Information Document

DAEA Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs

DEAT Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism

DME Department of Minerals and Energy

DWAF Department of Water Affairs and Forestry

ECA Environment Conservation Act (Act 73 of 1989)

EFR Estuarine Freshwater requirement

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EIR Environmental Impact Report

EMC Ecological Management Class

EMP Environmental Management Plan

ESR Environmental Scoping Report

FSL Full Supply Level

GIS Geographic Information System

Gl-1 Grams per litre (Measure of dissolved oxygen concentration)

ha Hectare (Equivalent to 10 000m2)

I&APs Interested and Affected Parties

IFR Instream Flow Requirement

km Kilometer

KZN KwaZulu-Natal

m3 Cubic Meters

m3/a Cubic Meters per Annum

MAR Mean Annual Runoff

masl Meters Above Sea Level

MMTS-2 Mooi-Mgeni Transfer Scheme Phase Two

NCRWC North Coast Regional Water Corporation

PMC Project Management Committee

PoS Plan of Study

PPP Public Participation Process

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PSP Professional Service Provider

RMF Regional Maximum Flood

RoD Record of Decision

SASS South African Scoring System

SEF Safety Evaluation Flood

SIA Social Impact Assessment

UW Umgeni Water

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1. BACKGROUND TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT

1.1. Introduction

The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) and Umgeni Water have

identified an urgent need to augment water supply to the North Coast Region of

KwaZulu-Natal. In a report titled the North Coast Supply System Infrastructure

Master Plan, initiated by Umgeni Water, recognition of the need to increase water

availability to this region was identified and a number of methods proposed and

investigated. This was to become a dynamic model into which new projects and

findings could be integrated to address water concerns for the North Coast

Region. A proposal to raise Hazelmere Dam formed part of this report. This

process also considered alternative means of increasing the availability of water

to this region. These include Demand Management and the construction of the

proposed Isithundu Dam on the main Mvoti River.

With recent increases in development within the North Coast Region and

reductions in volumes available for supply due to siltation and fluctuations in

rainfall, assurance of supply has decreased to an unacceptable level for a

metropolitan area. The raising of Hazelmere Dam on the Mdloti River, north of

Durban and about 5km north of the town of Verulam, was found to be the most

viable option to augment this water demand. DWAF and Umgeni Water made an

application for authorisation in January 2001 and clearly identified the activities

involved with the proposed development and some preliminary issues needing

further investigation and possible mitigation. KZN DAEA reference number for

the project is EIA/2314.

To this end, Knight Piésold Consulting was contracted to prepare an

Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and a feasibility study for the proposed

raising of Hazelmere Dam, completed in June 2002 (DWAF Report No. PB

U300-00-0701; UW Report No. U3/02/F/8.10.3/EIA). The EIR and feasibility

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study conducted included a public participation process (PPP) and a number of

specialist studies (Refer to Section 5.4 below). However, due to a change in

water demand, the proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam was postponed until

demand justified the development. Therefore the implementation of this project

was delayed, during which time water demand within the region was monitored

and demand management principles implemented. However, with recent

increase for water demanded by the development of the North Coast Region, this

proposal has been resurrected and is in urgent need. Nemai Consulting C.C. has

been appointed by DWAF as an independent environmental consultant to review

and update the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the proposed raising

of Hazelmere Dam and to obtain the necessary approval.

1.1.1. Hazelmere Dam Phase One (1976)

In order to provide a reliable water supply to irrigation development in the

area and an increase in water demand from both urban and industrial users,

the North Coast Regional Water Corporation (NCRWC) (now Umgeni

Water) investigated a number of sites within the North Coast Region for the

construction of a dam to meet the increase in demand. A number of

methods for the construction of the dam wall were also investigated. A

concrete gravity dam to be completed in two phases was found to be the

most suitable structure. This was approved by Parliament in 1971 (White

Paper K-’71) and the first phase of the construction of Hazelmere Dam was

completed in 1976. To facilitate the second phase of construction, concrete

piers were incorporated into the dam wall for the support of steel radial

gates.

Hydrological surveys of Hazelmere Dam’s Full Supply Level (FSL) indicate

a capacity of 23.901 million m3 for the current contour level of 85.98masl.

Based on a sediment survey conducted in June 1993 by DWAF this volume

was reduced by 6.043 million m3 due to sediment, comprising 25% of the

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FSL. The proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam to contour level 93.00masl

would increase the FSL to 43.601 million m3.

1.1.2. Hazelmere Dam Phase Two (Proposed)

During the planning of Hazelmere Dam and anticipating the second phase

to development, the majority of the dam basin was expropriated for the FSL

of 93masl. However, a portion of land in the vicinity of the inflow into the

dam was not expropriated (Oakford Priory area) and this was in keeping

with state policy where land is only expropriated when absolutely necessary

and therefore not excluding opportunity for freehold land ownership.

A reduction to the original gross storage capacity of Hazelmere Dam from

approximately 21 million m3 to about 16.8 million m3 in 1999 was as a direct

result of increased sedimentation. A singular flood event in 1984 (Demoina)

reduced the storage capacity by 10%. From revised inflow data for

Hazelmere Dam (2001), water yield was calculated as 14.4 million m3/a with

a 99.5% assurance of supply and the additional provision of a Reserve

requirement for Ecological Management Class (EMC) C (11.4 million m3/a).

However, in 2001, the irrigation requirement alone was approximately 12.6

million m3/a with urban requirements being variable. The Umgeni Water

treatment works can handle 7.3 million m3/a. Additionally only 5.2 million

m3/a was released for the environment in the form of an ecological Reserve,

being only 8% of the Mean Annual Runoff (MAR) for the catchment. Raising

the FSL to 93masl will supply demands at the required assurance until 2030

if irrigation use is stopped.

The high rate of sedimentation coupled with increasing urban and industrial

demands for water prompted the undertaking of a feasibility study for the

raising of Hazelmere Dam and was completed in November 2002 (DWAF

Report No. PB U300-00-0901; UW Report No. U3/02F/02). This technical

study had a parallel Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and

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this was completed in June 2002 (DWAF Report No. PB U300-00-0701;

UW Report No. U3/02F/20).

Recommendations from the feasibility study can be summarised as follows:

1. The dam FSL be raised by the installation of conventional radial gates

on the spillway crest as per the original design and as verified by

environmental feasibility study;

2. The standby generator required to operate the gates under emergency

conditions be installed at a position higher than the non-overspill crest

of the dam;

3. A model study be conducted to establish the sequence in which the

gates should be opened to minimise scouring of the downstream river

channel;

4. Gate opening as well as the gate opening sequence be automatic as

the water level in the reservoir rises to ensure the safety of the dam

and to minimise flooding downstream of the dam;

5. Installation of gates be scheduled to take place during the dry season

to minimise the risk of flooding;

6. The public participation programme, including public meetings, be

resumed as soon as a decision is made to proceed with the raising;

7. The Reserve be formally determined prior to finalising operating rules

and final yield estimates for the raised dam;

8. A detailed environmental management plan be developed to guide the

various activities associated with the construction and operating

phases of the raised dam. The plan must include details of monitoring

requirements and be submitted to DEAT for approval;

9. The dam zonation plan be reviewed for the raised FSL scenario to

ensure a proper balance between functionality, development,

recreation and conservation.

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1.2. Description of the Study Area

Hazelmere Dam (29o 35’ 53S 31o 02’ 34E – center of the dam wall) is located

approximately 5km north-west of the town of Verulam on the Mdloti River. This

forms part of the Magisterial District of Verulam within the Province of KwaZulu-

Natal. Refer to Figure 1.1 for the location of Hazelmere Dam within KwaZulu-

Natal.

Figure 1.1 Hazelmere Dam Locality

Mean Annual Precipitation for this region is approximately 980mm (quaternary

catchment is U30B). The catchment area for Hazelmere Dam is approximately

380km2 and due to the steep terrain within this region of KwaZulu-Natal, runoff is

rapid. Vegetation cover upstream of Hazelmere Dam is generally good despite

the levels of siltation within the dam. A large proportion of this cover has however

been largely transformed and comprises predominantly alien vegetation.

Transformation of the vegetation within the vicinity of the Mdloti River is

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predominantly due to the farming of sugar cane and a number of sandwinning

operations.

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2. PURPOSE OF THIS PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIR

This plan of study for EIR (PoS) has been compiled in terms of the EIA

Regulations R1183, as specified by Sections 26 and 28 of the Environment

Conservation Act (No 73 of 1989) (ECA) and will outline the process and

activities associated with the EIA to ensure these satisfy the requirements of the

Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT).

As such the PoS will include the following:

1. A description of the environmental issues identified that may require

further investigation and assessment.

This will entail a description of the environmental issues identified during

scoping as a broad range of issues have been identified. These issues will

be evaluated and significant issues for further investigation and

assessment will be highlighted.

2. A description of the feasible alternatives identified that may be further

investigated

This will cover the feasible alternatives identified during scoping. A

number of alternatives were identified and evaluated according to a Least

Cost Planning principle where social, environmental, and economic

impacts are evaluated and rated according to significance.

3. Recommendations on additional information required to determine the

potential impacts of the proposed activity on the environment

A summary outlining areas requiring further information and/or updating

will be provided. This is however merely an indication based on the

recommendations set out by the various specialist studies. A formal

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acceptance of the specialist studies will be conducted in the form of an

acceptance letter to DEAT.

4. A description of the proposed method of identifying these impacts

The methodology for identifying the impacts associated with the proposed

development will be summarised in tabular format and include impacts

identified during scoping.

5. A description of the proposed method of assessing the significance of

these impacts

In an effort to attach an indication of the significance to the impacts

identified during scoping, a ranking technique will be outlined. Each impact

will be ranked according to the extent, magnitude, and duration. This will

allow for a more objective evaluation of the impacts identified.

2.1. Listed Activities

In terms of the ECA Regulations, the EIA covers the following listed activities:

“1(j). The construction or upgrading of: dams, levels or weirs affecting the

flow of a river;

1(k). The construction or upgrading of: reservoirs for public water supply;

2(c). The change of land use from: agriculture or undetermined use to any

other land use;

2(e). The change of land use from: use for nature conservation or zoned

open space to any other land use.”

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The application also includes subsidiary applications under the following listed

activities for ancillary works that may be required as the final design of the dam

raising is finalised:

• In the event that fuels are required to be stored on the site during

construction or operation, the following listed activity may apply

“1(c) transportation routes and structures, and manufacturing,

storage, handling or processing facilities for any substance

which is considered as dangerous or hazardous and is

controlled by national legislation;”

• In the event that additional access roads are required during

construction or that additional access is required around the

reservoir perimeter;

“1(d) roads, railways, airfields and associated structures and

activities outside the borders of town planning schemes;

In this context it may be possible that a "Road" means:

any road in a designated sensitive area or in any area

regarded by the relevant authority as sensitive.”

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3. DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT AND CONSULTANT

3.1. Applicant

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF)

Private Bag X 313

Pretoria

0001

Represented by:

Mr Johann J. Geringer

Tel: (012) 336 8332

Cel: 082 809 2014

Fax: (012) 336 7399

Email: [email protected]

3.2. Independent Environmental Consultant

Nemai Consulting C.C.

PO Box 1673

Sunninghill

2157

Represented by:

Mr Ciaran Chidley

Tel: (011) 781 1730

Cel: 082 788 1298

Fax: (011) 482 3587

Email: [email protected]

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4. ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PROCESS TO DATE

The environmental authorisation process can be divided into two distinct periods

as that which was conducted after the appointment of Nemai Consulting as

independent environmental consultants (9th February 2007) and that which was

conducted prior to this date.

Umgeni Water conducted a detailed feasibility study to ultimately provide a

development programme for the bulk water supplies to the North Coast Region

entitled the North Coast Supply System Bulk Infrastructure Masterplan. The

study identified the need for a detailed feasibility study to be conducted for the

raising of Hazelmere Dam. The objective was to establish whether this proposed

project would be technically feasible and socially and environmentally

acceptable.

An Environmental Scoping Report (ESR) was therefore conducted at the EIA

level for the raising of Hazelmere Dam by DWAF and Umgeni Water and

completed in 2003. The ESR was prepared in the form of a main report and was

supported by a number of feasibility level specialist reports including a full PPP.

This project was registered in 2003 with the KZN DAEA with the intention of

securing a RoD for the proposed development. However, submission to the KZN

DAEA was delayed as alternative methods to reduce water consumption were

employed with minimal effect. This effectively extended the development phase

past the two year window period the Record of Decision (RoD) remains valid.

Once water demand within the North Coast Region increased again beyond the

assurance of supply, the proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam was rekindled. This

project has therefore been registered with the KZN DAEA and put on hold by

DWAF to investigate and implement the water saving scheme.

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4.1. Environmental Authorisation Process prior to 9th February 2007

The following presents a concise summary of the process followed and

completed prior to Nemai Consulting being appointed as the independent

environmental consultants by DWAF:

1. Application and registration was made to the KZN DAEA (2003)

2. An ESR and feasibility study conducted by DWAF was incorporated into a

Main Report and this was completed in November 2002. There were a

number of technical and environmental supporting documents as follows:

2.1. Flood frequency analysis report

2.2. Hydrology report

2.3. Engineering report

2.4. Water quality report

2.5. GIS report

2.6. EIA report

This included the following specialist studies:

2.6.1. Specialist study of the flora

2.6.2. Specialist study of the fauna

2.7. Environmental water requirements report.

3. Application for EIA placed on hold to investigate water reduction strategies

4. An extensive public participation process (PPP) which included the

identification and communication with stakeholders and interested and

affected parties (I&APs).

4.2. Environmental Authorisation Process after the 9th February 2007

The following has been conducted by Nemai Consulting upon being appointed as

an independent environmental consultant:

1. An environmental authority meeting between DWAF and DEAT on the 16th

February 2007. The raising of Hazelmere Dam is to follow a similar

process as that outlined for Phase Two of the Mooi-Mgeni Transfer

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Scheme also discussed at this meeting. Refer to Section 6.1 below for a

summary of this meeting.

2. An application made to the KZN DAEA to transfer the project to DEAT

3. A series of consultations with DEAT to outline the methodology for the EIR

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5. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS

5.1. Summary of Issues

The following presents a summary of the findings for the feasibility study

conducted, the main aim of which was to establish, at a detailed level, whether

the planned raising of Hazelmere Dam was a feasible development option to

augment the water supply to the North Coast region. The study was based on

specialist studies of flora, fauna, archaeology, and a PPP that included public

meetings and interviews with key stakeholders. The following section presents

the Executive Summary from the feasibility study conducted and highlights on the

main positive and negative impacts of the proposed development and some

preliminary recommendations and conclusions.

5.1.1. Executive Summary of the Feasibility Study

‘Hazelmere Dam has already had a highly detrimental impact on the

ecology of the lower Mdloti River and the estuary. Additional detrimental

impacts that may be expected if the water level in the impoundment were to

be raised by seven metres aggravate some of these impacts, but none are

considered to be fatal environmental flaws. There is therefore no impact so

severe that the project should not continue. The proposed raising of the

dam will inundate an additional area of over 100ha, and increase the

shoreline of the impoundment by over 4km. This would occur within the

area already purchased for the dam basin, as well as a small area in the

headwaters where additional land acquisition is still necessary. The land

expropriated for the original reservoir appears, for the most part, to have

sufficiently catered for the proposed increase in the size of the reservoir.

One notable exception is that at Oakford Priory. Of particular note is that no

people will be displaced by the raised water levels, although workers

accommodation at Oakford Priory will be affected. The most significant

concern is the inundation of infrastructure at Oakford Priory, particularly the

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cemetery and septic tanks. The greatest threat to Hazelmere Dam has been

excessive rates of siltation. This will continue unless radical steps are taken

to address soil erosion in the catchment. If soil erosion is not significantly

reduced, the raising of Hazelmere Dam will provide a medium-term solution

to the water shortages that are expected in the North Coast region.

POSITIVE IMPACTS

The positive impacts of the proposed development are listed in Table A [not

attached], and the most significant of these are summarised as follows:

• Assurance of Supply: The most significant positive environmental impact

of raising the FSL is the improved assurance of existing domestic and

industrial water supplies in the North Coast region. The raised dam will

more than double the current storage capacity of Hazelmere Dam. This will

help to stabilise and promote economic growth in the region.

• Job Creation: The raising of the dam will create a limited number of job

opportunities (maximum of about 30) during the construction phase, which

estimated to be about 4.5 months. Manufacture of the gates will, in all

likelihood, take place in Gauteng or Durban, therefore restricting job

opportunities locally.

• Aquatic fauna: The increased water levels will increase the length of

shoreline, and this will create new aquatic habitats within the dam basin that

will benefit many aquatic and semi-aquatic species.

• Alien Vegetation: The raised water levels will also inundate degraded and

exotic terrestrial vegetation, which is considered a positive impact

NEGATIVE IMPACTS

The proposed development raises few negative environmental impacts,

mainly because the dam was planned to be raised. Issues concerning land

tenure, access roads, servitudes and relocation are relatively minor, or

otherwise of no concern because they are already in place. The negative

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impacts of the proposed development are listed in Table B [not attached],

and the most significant of these summarised as follows:

• Oakford Priory: The most significant detrimental impact would be the

partial inundation of the Oakford Priory cemetery, which contains 255

graves, of which 114 would be affected directly. In addition, there is a

number of buildings and other infrastructure that will be inundated, including

septic tanks, workers accommodation, unused fowl run, vegetable garden,

orchards, plant nursery, laundry and prayer cabins. These impacts,

particularly the cemetery, are considered serious. Even without the raising,

the low-lying area of the priory has suffered occasional flooding from 1 in 10

year flood events because of the increased sedimentation in the reservoir.

The Priory has recently given land to the Department of Housing for the

construction of 310 houses. This is in part to mitigate the impact of periodic

inundation of labourer’s houses close to the Mdloti River. The sisters have

indicated that they are reconciled to the fact that the Dam may be raised

and that the Priory will be impacted upon. The sisters have indicated that

there are no impacts that they regard as serious enough to be regarded as

fatal flaws. They do however stipulate that the raising should not

compromise the safety or health of any one associated with the Priory in

any way whatsoever.

• Recreational Area and Facilities: There will be a significant and permanent

loss of an important recreational area and associated facilities. In 1999 an

estimated 65 00 people visited these facilities, mostly from Tongaat,

Verulam and rural areas to the north. The reduction in recreational area

may create problems in terms of increased densities. It was well-known that

this area would be inundated when the dam was raised, and therefore

compensation for this loss is unlikely.

• Sandwinning: There will be a medium-term loss of sandwinning

possibilities. The license to mine sand deposits is granted by the

Department of Minerals and Energy, and the withdrawal of the licenses and

compensation will be handled in co-operation with the Department of

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Minerals and Energy. For the most part sandwinning is taking place within

agreed boundaries, and with the express permission of the Department of

Water Affairs and Forestry.

• Small-scale Commercial Farming: A limited area of the Cottonlands farm

that is used for small-scale commercial farming will be inundated. The

normal course of compensation should be sufficient to mitigate the impacts.

• Game Animals: Some terrestrial mammals may lose habitat, but this

applies mostly to game species that are fenced into the Msinsi Holdings

Recreational Facility. Most affected will be the grazing species (Impala,

Zebra and Blue Wildebeest). The reduction in the grassy areas used by

grazing species may lead to either a decline in the condition of the animals

and/or overgrazing and subsequent degradation of the vegetation.

Management can easily respond to changes by reducing animal numbers if

necessary.

• Alluvial wetlands: There will be almost total loss of the 8ha of wetlands

that have developed on the alluvial deposits in the upper reaches of the

impoundment. Mitigation for the loss is considered necessary as the areas

are used by a variety of animal species with birds probably being the most

important. It is highly likely that some areas of new wetland of this type will

develop, again in the upper reaches of the impoundment. They will not be

as extensive as the existing wetlands, but, if human intrusions into them can

be minimised, the new wetlands will compensate for the losses.

• Eels: Eels are able to cross the existing wall, although in low numbers

only. It is almost certain that they will be unable to cross the raised wall

unless special provision is made to facilitate upstream migration.

• Archaeological Importance: One archaeological site was recorded and

one scatter of artifacts was recorded. The site dates to the Mzonjani Phase

of the Early Iron Age, although one Middle Stone Age flake was noted. The

scatter consists of five pottery sherds and one upper grinding stone over a

±40 m distance. The sherds belong to thin-walled vessels and probably

date to the Late Iron Age or Historical Period. These sherds are too few to

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be defined as an archaeological site. However, they do indicate that sites

probably existed in the area prior to the Hazelmere Dam. The site is

significant in that it is the first recorded Early Iron Age site along the Mdloti

River Valley, and the pottery decorations may provide important

comparisons for inter-site decorations.

Alternative Options

It has been certified that the most economical and efficient way of raising

the dam will be by attaching steel radial gates to the piers that are already

in place on the spillway. An alternative option is to raise the level spillway

wall, but this was not considered in detail due to the higher costs.

Alternative means of increasing the availability of water in the area were

studied as part of the North Coast Supply System Bulk Infrastructure

Masterplan, initiated by Umgeni Water. These include Demand

Management and the proposed Isithundu Dam on the main Mvoti River.

The development costs of the Isithundu Dam and the associated water

treatment plant is very high (about R343 million), compared to the cost of

raising Hazelmere Dam (about R15 million)(based on prices in January

2000). The Isithundu Dam would therefore have a significantly higher

impact on water tariffs than raising Hazelmere Dam. This alternative was

not investigated further because of the significantly higher costs.

Preliminary Sustainable Utilisation Plan

This report summarises the Government’s new policy towards zoning of

water resources. The policy is intended to encourage and promote

equitable, sustainable, compatible and safe recreational water use of

government waterworks. It is concluded that the existing dam zonation

policy for Hazelmere Dam has been well thought out, and functions well in

terms of its desired goals. However, it is recommended that a

comprehensive Sustainable Utilisation Plan, accompanied by a full public

participation process, should be undertaken in further phases of the project.

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Compensation

Compensation will be provided for assets that are lost through inundation,

but only if they are situated outside state-owned land. This is limited to the

land and infrastructure at Oakford Priory and adjacent smallholdings on

Cottonlands Farm. The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and

Umgeni Water have no legal obligation to compensate for the loss of

recreational facilities on state-owned land.’

5.2. Ranking of Issues

In order to introduce a level of objectivity into the ranking of issues associated

with the raising of Hazelmere Dam criteria based on the extent, magnitude, and

duration of impact are to be used in an effort to assign a level significance.

The methodology for ranking the issues is outlined in detail for the environmental

impact report (EIR) in Section 6.4.1 below.

5.3. Reasonable Project Alternatives Identified and Considered

A number of alternative options were evaluated by Umgeni Water as part of the

North Coast Supply System Bulk Infrastructure Master Plan. The relative

appropriateness of the various alternatives was evaluated during the feasibility

study and can be summarised as follows:

1. Isithundu Dam

Construction of another dam on the main stem of the Mvoti River was considered

as an alternative to the raising of Hazelmere Dam. However, due to the

prohibitive expense (R343 million compared to R15 million for raising Hazelmere

Dam (2000)) water tariffs would be unacceptably high.

2. Demand management

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Although demand management is an increasingly important consideration for the

reduction in water demand throughout South Africa it would serve merely to

reduce pressure on supply in the short-term and would not avoid the

necessitation for increased water supply to the North Coast Region.

3. Clearing alien vegetation

Although not an alternative for the increased supply to the North Coast Region,

the removal of alien vegetation and rehabilitation of these areas will greatly

improve the ecological functioning of the catchment and may increase MAR.

4. Dredging

Dredging Hazelmere Dam of the sediment was considered an undesirable

alternative due to the following:

4.1. Costs incurred both initially and annually to maintain storage,

4.2. Increased expense in water treatment due to high turbidity levels,

4.3. The spoil needs to be properly disposed of.

5. Improved landuse practises

As with demand management implementing improved landuse practises still will

not meet the current demand for water in this region and therefore does not

negate the augmentation of water supply in the medium to long term.

Considering the above, the raising of Hazelmere Dam presents the most

reasonable alternative to the augmentation of water supply to the North Coast

Region both from a socio-economic and biophysical perspective.

5.4. Additional Information Required

The following presents a brief overview of the environmental work conducted

prior to February 2007. Nemai Consulting has reviewed the environmental and

technical reports incorporated into the Raising of Hazelmere Dam Feasibility

Study. The purpose of this section is to identify potential impacts omitted, identify

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broadly the steps necessary in collating the required information for the EIA

process and identify possible changes to any mitigation measures.

5.4.1. Introductory Overview

Umgeni Water undertook a detailed feasibility study which provided the

optimal development programme for future bulk water supplies to the North

Coast region entitled North Coast Supply System Bulk Infrastructure Master

Plan. The main aim of this study was to address the foreseeable water

shortages and develop a dynamic document or model for the future bulk

water supplies to this region. From this feasibility study recommendations

were given to develop either the Mdloti or Mvoti Rivers to meet this urgent

decrease in water supply.

The DWAF therefore conducted a detailed feasibility study to determine if

the raising of Hazelmere Dam was technically and both socially and

environmentally feasible. This feasibility study included an assessment of

possible water demand management measures in keeping with the

Integrated Least Cost Planning principle. The raising of Hazelmere Dam

and the associated contribution to the system needed to be reassessed and

cost estimates re-evaluated. This additional feasibility study therefore only

addressed issues surrounding the raising of Hazelmere Dam and did not

consider the need for or timing of this proposed development. Incorporated

into this was an evaluation of sedimentation levels, technical evaluation and

costing of various methods for raising the dams FSL, and identified a need

for specialist studies to be conducted. Therefore, a parallel EIA process

which incorporated a PPP and a number of technical and environmental

specialist reports was conducted.

The specialist reports have been critically reviewed and a summary for each

is presented below.

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5.4.2. Raising of Hazelmere Dam: EIA Report (June 2002)

This EIA report (DWAF Report No. PB U300-00-0701 UMGENI WATER

Report No. U3/02/F/8.10.3/EIA) formed part of the feasibility study

conducted by DWAF and aimed to establish, at a detailed level, whether the

planned raising of Hazelmere Dam is a feasible development option to

augment the water supply to the North Coast region. The EIA report

included a vegetation study, Biophysical Impact Assessment (BIA), Social

Impact Assessment (SIA), an Archaeological Survey, and a PPP that

included public meetings and interviews with key stakeholders. Additional to

this, specialist studies where conducted as part of the feasibility study,

including an engineering, hydrological, flood frequency analysis, water

quality, and a GIS report. Therefore these studies present a more thorough

investigation of the impacts associated with the proposed raising of

Hazelmere Dam than a feasibility level study.

The EIA process identified a number of positive and negative impacts

associated with the raising to FSL of 93masl. However, none of the impacts

were considered to be major environmental flaws and therefore no reason

why the project should not continue. However, should the project continue a

number of short-term and long-term recommendations were made, as

follows:

‘RECOMMENDATIONS: SHORT-TERM

• Negotiate Oakford Priory’s Compensation and Replanning: Even

if the dam is not raised, we recommend that negotiation between

DWAF and Oakford Priory regarding expropriation,

compensation and re-planning of the Priory’s infrastructure,

particularly the water and sewage system, should be undertaken

as a matter of urgency. This should be undertaken to ensure that

impacts associated with loss of workers houses, access roads,

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septic tanks, buildings, vegetable gardens and orchards are

minimised. After the land is expropriated, we suggest that the

land should be leased back to the Priory, on the understanding

that the government would not be held responsible for any losses

caused by flooding. The possibility of linking the Priory to the

Durban Metropolitan water services should also be considered.

• Negotiate Cottonlands Farm’s Compensation: Likewise, we

recommend negotiations between DWAF and affected

landowners on Cottonlands Farms regarding compensation for

inundated farm land. This should also be done even if the dam is

not raised immediately, although this is not as urgent as the

Priory.

• Discuss Sandwinning Operations with DME: Once the decision to

move forward with implementation is made, it is recommended

that the DWAF should notify the Department of Minerals and

Energy (DME) regarding the inundation of sand deposits in the

Hazelmere Dam Basin. This may be an important consideration

when drafting new permits for sandwinning in the area. It is not

the intention to stop sandwinning in the basin, but rather to allow

mining to continue until it is no longer possible.

• Investigate Feasibility of Eelway: Once the decision to move

forward with implementation is made, we suggest that a more

detailed study of the feasibility of an eelway should be

undertaken. The study should consider the design and extra

costs of including an eelway, collect baseline data on the

prevalence of eels upstream and downstream of the wall, and

recommend a monitoring programme, should the eelway be

considered feasible.

• Develop Sustainable Utilisation Plan: Should the dam be raised,

it is recommended the DWAF develop a detailed Sustainable

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Utilisation Plan accompanied by a full public participation

process, involving, inter alia, the Institute for Natural Resources.

• Develop an Environmental Management Plan: A detailed

Environmental Management Plan must be developed to guide

the various activities associated with the construction and the

operational phases. The plan must include details of monitoring

requirements (i.e. what, where, who and when), and be

submitted to the DEAT for approval.

• Archaeological Investigation: A more detailed investigation of the

archaeological site is recommended to determine the full value of

the site. The vegetation surrounding the site would need to be

cleared before this could be done. The primary aim of these pilot

excavations would be assess the need for a more thorough

excavation.

RECOMMENDATIONS: LONG-TERM

• Monitor and Manage Grazing Mammals: The condition of

both the grazing animals and the vegetation should be

monitored on an ongoing basis by Msinsi Holdings, and

populations adjusted if necessary.

• Monitor Eel Populations: Eel populations upstream and

downstream of the dam should be monitored according to

the recommendations of the proposed study to investigate

the feasibility of the proposed eelway.

• Monitor Water Quality: Standard water quality variables

should be monitored upstream and downstream of the

impoundment, as well as within the impoundment, as

detailed in the EMP. In addition to the standard water

quality variables, water temperature, aquatic invertebrates

(SASS) and populations of Microcystis should also be

monitored according to the requirements of the EMP.

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• Map and Protect Wetlands: The new wetlands which are

likely to develop at the headwaters of the dam should be

mapped by the DWAF, once they have stabilised, and this

mapping information should be held by DWAF. The reason

for delineating the new wetlands is that such baseline

information will help in developing EMPs for sandwinning

operations that are likely to want to operate in the area.

These wetlands should also be protected from human

intrusion as far as possible, partly because they will provide

habitats for a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic fauna, and

partly because they are likely to reduce the amount of

sediment that enters the impoundment.

• Implement and Monitor Downstream Ecological Releases:

The Operational Management of the downstream releases

should follow the recommendations for the downstream

ecological flow requirements. In particular, the speed at

which gates are opened and closed to release water

downstream should be controlled, and unnaturally sudden

changes in river flow should be avoided. Periodic audits

should be undertaken to check if the downstream ecological

flow requirements are being met or not.

• Report and Monitor Stability of Road Bridge: It is

recommended that the DWAF report the danger of

instability of the road bridge at the top end of the

impoundment to the appropriate Roads Authorities

(Provincial Roads Department), and that the condition of

the bridge should be monitored regularly by the roads

department.

RECOMMENDATIONS: GENERAL

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The following recommendations concern the catchment upstream of the

dam, and although they are not directly related to minimising the impacts of

raising the FSL, they have indirect implications for conditions in the

impoundment, and are therefore considered important.

• Reduce Soil Erosion in the Catchment: We recommend that

the Catchment Management Agency should consider a

comprehensive plan to reduce soil erosion in the

catchment, and in doing so, reduce turbidity levels in the

impoundment. Interventions would include protection of

suitable Buffer Zones on either side of all perennial streams

in the catchment, and rehabilitation of road crossings and

their stormwater drainage systems.

• Clear Alien Vegetation in Riparian Zone: Clearing alien

vegetation in the riparian zone of the Mdloti River and its

perennial tributaries is recommended to improve water

yield. We suggest that the Mdloti River Catchment should

be promoted as a priority area in the Working for Water

Programme.’

5.4.3. Vegetation study of the areas to be inundated around Hazelmere

Dam

The following communities were investigated in the areas to be inundated

around Hazelmere Dam for plant diversity and a combined species list

produced:

1. Mdloti River Floodplain

2. Wetland vegetation

3. Cliff communities

3.1. North-facing scarp forest

3.2. West-facing scarp forest

4. Savanna communities

5. Altered vegetation of the recreation area

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For each community an assessment of the impact, extent, duration,

severity, likelihood, significance, and suggested mitigation measures were

given. The loss of habitat and diversity to the flora was considered to be

minor with no mitigation measures to augment lost habitat types necessary

except for the rehabilitation of the recreational area.

This study made recognition of the FSL of 93masl and although the

vegetation assessment was conducted some time ago (July 2001) it is

highly unlikely that any significant positive changes to the flora and diversity

has occurred thereby necessitating an additional vegetation survey.

5.4.4. Assessment of Certain Biophysical Impacts Associated with the

Proposed Raising of Hazelmere Dam Water Level

Impacts associated with the proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam on the

following groups of fauna were investigated:

• Terrestrial fauna

• Mammals

• Birds

• Amphibians

• Amphibians and reptiles

• Fish

• Aquatic species

Although habitat and feeding areas will more than likely be lost for some of

the faunal species, this impact was considered minor and in general the

proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam will benefit the majority of species.

Therefore there was no foreseen reason why the proposed raising should

not continue, however a number of recommendations were given as

follows:

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Recommendations

‘Despite the apparent lack of issues of concern, there is some necessity for

future work should the project be carried out. To ensure that it is done it will

be necessary to produce an environmental management plan (EMP) in

which the following issues must be addressed.

• Removal of trees in the area to be inundated. There are

some trees in the area that will be inundated. It is

recommended that some are left in situ as they provide

roosting and nesting habitat for birds such as cormorants

and egrets.

• Trees, which are left standing, may be used as refugia by

certain reptiles such as lizards and chameleons. Periodic

checks should be made to see if any of these animals are

stranded, and, if so, they should be rescued and be

released on the nearby shoreline.

• Monitoring of the condition of the game animals in the

resort. The reduction in the grassy areas utilised by the

species may lead to either a decline in the condition of the

animals and/or overgrazing and subsequent degradation of

the vegetation. The condition of both the animals and the

vegetation should be monitored on an ongoing basis by

Msinsi Holdings.

• The new wetlands, which may develop at the headwaters of

the dam, should be mapped once they have stabilised and

should be protected from human intrusion as far as

possible. Of particular concern in this regard is the issue of

sandwinning. It may not be an issue at first but is bound to

happen as future floods leave new alluvium deposits.

• A zonation plan for the new water surface should be

prepared. Particular attention should be given in this regard

to keeping powerboat traffic away from the wetlands and

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from the cliffs near the dam wall, and destumping of trees in

areas used for power craft.’

Additionally provision will need to be made for an eelway to facilitate the

migration of eels upstream.

5.4.5. Raising of Hazelmere Dam: Social Impact Assessment

In order to assess the magnitude and significance of the potential impact of

raising Hazelmere Dam, interviews were conducted with the critical

stakeholders of the area surrounding and impacted by the proposed raising

of the dam. In addition meetings were held with the Mdloti Catchment

Management forum. The following issues were identified:

• Partial inundation of the Oakford priory cemetery

• Loss of an important recreational area and facilities

• Medium-term loss of sandwinning opportunities

• A limited area of the Cottonlands farm that is used for

small-scale commercial farming will be inundated

• A need for the rezoning of activities

Measures of mitigation and compensation were addressed and have been

summarised in Table 5.1. The SIA, PPP, interviews with stakeholders and

I&APs was conducted in 2001. Since this time a number of the critical

stakeholders and I&APs may have changed. For this reason a full PPP will

need to be re-conducted to re-identify these individuals and to inform the

general public of the proposed raising of Hazelmere Dam being restarted.

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Table 5.1 Critical impacts and suggested mitigation measures identified from the

SIA

IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION LIMITS OF MITIGATION

Flooding of Cemetery at

Oakford Priory

Very High

Briefing document to Bishops Conference to establish channels to be followed.

Exhumation and reburial once the process has been finalised.

Land is consecrated ground and emotional issues

associated with exhumation may be difficult to mitigate.

Could cause negative publicity for the project.

Flooding and/or

acquisition of infrastructure

within the expropriation

line at Oakford Priory.

High

Re-planning of infrastructure in Priory to accommodate lost

infrastructure. Set back zone policy of 0.6m vertical or 15m horizontal should be seriously considered to minimise loss of

land and infrastructure. Compensation for buildings

acquired.

Will be difficult to plan for redevelopment of all

infrastructure given loss of land.

Acquisition of land in

Cottonlands. Moderate

Ongoing consultation with landowners and compensation

for land/assets acquired.

Reduction in size of

Hazelmere recreational

area.

Moderate

Re-planning of area, and ongoing consultation with the

managing agent and representatives of recreational

bodies.

Re-planning is unlikely to compensate fully for loss of terrestrial recreational area.

Loss of sandwinning.

Moderate

Compensation for any fixed assets associated with the

operations that may be lost (if any). Discussions with

Department of Mineral and Energy as to legal rights that

DWAF has in this regard.

Security of water supply

to North Coast Region.

High (positive) Not Applicable.

5.4.6. Archaeological Survey

The archaeological survey of the Hazelmere Dam located and recorded one

archaeological site and a scatter of artefacts. The archaeological site is

located on the sand embankment between the existing FSL and grass

verges of the dam just below the manager’s office within the Hazelmere

Reserve. A number of artefacts were observed in a dirt road cutting and

isolated cleared areas immediately above the Mdloti River. These artefacts

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included many sherds, a few upper grinding stones, and one fragment of a

dagga floor.

The archaeological site is of medium significance in that it is the first Early

Iron Age site along the Mdloti River valley and would therefore require

further mitigation. The occurrence of the archaeological site is not of such

importance that it should be restrictive for the program to raise the water

level in Hazelmere Dam.

Recommendations

• It is necessary to excavate the sites more intensively to

determine extent and density of artefacts. Presently

however dense vegetation is hindering any further

investigation and would therefore require clearing.

• It will be necessary to incorporate a full heritage study on

the basis that the proposed development is greater than

10ha.

5.4.7. Flood Frequency Analysis Report

In-flow data for a 33 year period for Hazelmere Dam and comparison with

two other previous studies conducted for this catchment found the regional

maximum flood (RMF) to be 3200 m3/s and this should be considered the

flood peak for the safety evaluation flood (SEF). The RMF volume was

calculated as 122.267x106 m3. No update from this report is necessary for

the purpose of the EIA. However, it is important to consider the impact this

RMF volume could potentially have on the current dam and proposed

development in the dam design of the engineering report.

5.4.8. Hydrology Report

The hydrology study addressed the following topics:

• Sediment accumulation in the basin

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• Water demands

• System yield

• Flood hydrology

‘The study concluded that the historic rate of sediment is very high (25 % of

the MAR in 50 years) and that loss of storage will result in significant

reduction in yield from the dam over the next 25 to 30 years. The existing

dam can only supply projected demands at the required assurance of 98 %

until 2008 if the Reserve is not implemented. If the Reserve is implemented

the dam already cannot supply demands at the required assurance.

Irrigation is at present a major user. If irrigation is not supplied the dam

could supply urban demands until 2028 if the Reserve is not supplied and

2012 if the Reserve is supplied. If the dam is raised projected urban and

irrigation demands can be supplied at 98 % assurance until 2029 as long as

no releases are made for the Reserve. If the Reserve is supplied demands

can only be supplied until 2009 at 98 % assurance. The raised dam could

supply the Reserve and projected urban demands beyond 2030 if irrigation

is stopped.’

Recommendations

• The report made specific recommendations with regards

the ecological reserve determination. The ecological

reserve will be determined and implemented by the DWAF

Minister as deemed appropriate. It is not expected that the

reserve will have an impact upon the Hazelemere Dam

Raising EIA.

5.4.9. Engineering Report

Various methods of raising Hazelmere Dam were investigated to provide an

economical solution for increased water supply that will satisfy modern dam

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safety standards and environmental and social requirements. The following

methods for raising the dam were investigated:

• Electrically operated radial gates as allowed for in the

original design

• Hydraulically operated mechanical gates of various designs

• Fuse gates

• Raised concrete dam

Radial Gates

Phase one construction of Hazelmere Dam made provision for the raising of

Hazelmere Dam by seven meters through the installation of seven 13m x

5m radial gates. These radial gates were designed to top seal against an

existing overhead concrete beam below the deck bridge. These radial gates

would be operated by an automated computerized system that would open

individual gates in sequence as the reservoir levels changed due to

increased runoff associated with floods.

These radial gates will require careful design and good maintenance

procedures as faults with the gates have occurred previously. Phase one

construction included grooves in the side walls, pier walls, and spillway sills

for the installation of stoplog guides and seals for both the radial gates and

stoplogs. Provision has been made in the side walls and piers for tensioned

cables to take the trunnion loads. The trunnion thrust blocks are yet to be

constructed. The gate lifting equipment will be supported by platforms

located on downstream noses. Cable hoists of hydraulic cylinders will be

suitable for this purpose. A diesel generator will provide backup power in

the case of power failure and will need to be capable of opening three gates

simultaneously.

Automatic Water Level Controlled Gates

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Water level controlled gates operate simply through trunnion pivots above

the gate and water stored in a ballast tank downstream of the gate and

pivots maintain the gate closed. Draining water from the ballast tank

decreases the pressure necessary to keep the gate closed and upstream

water pressure enables the gate to open automatically. This method is

therefore not reliant on electrical power. A number of different gates were

considered as follows:

• Top Gates

• Aquagates

• Radial Ballast Gates

• Active Gates

These various methods all require different levels of civil modification to the

existing structure. Of the options mentioned above, top gates present the

most feasible option in that it would require the least amount of civil

modification and its use has been extensively tested with good result.

Fuse Gates

Fuse gates are self-operating non-mechanical units requiring no human

input or electrical power to operate once installed. There are no movable

parts or special systems that could result in non-functionality and are

therefore reliable. Drawbacks with this method is once the fuse gates tip

due to excessive flooding they have to be replaced and there is a

consequential loss of storage. The cost of this option is also greater as

substantial civil works will be necessary for their installation.

Concrete Raising

Raising the spillway and non-overflow section by the addition of concrete

would require the bridge and piers are demolished and approximately 17

000m3 of concrete to raise the dam wall to 93masl and the non-overflow

crest to 99masl. This method is prohibitively expensive and will not be able

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to control backwater inundation due to flooding. Additionally, the impact on

the Oakford Priory would be substantially greater as the sectional area is

increased.

Recommendations

• The raising of Hazelmere Dam was found to be both

technically and economically feasible. The use of radial

gates as per original design was verified as the best

method based on the simplicity of installation, cost involved,

and operation achieved.

The following additional recommendations were made:

• standby generator be installed at a position higher than the

non-overspill crest of the dam

• a model study be conducted to establish the sequence in

which the gates should be opened

• sequence of gate opening should be automatic as the water

level in the reservoir rises to ensure the safety of the dam

and downstream developments during times of flooding

• construction work should take place in the dry season in

order to avoid possible flooding of the works during the wet

season

5.4.10. Water Quality Report

The main aim of this report was to determine the Environmental Flow

Requirement, a part of the Reserve, between Hazelmere Dam and the

Mdloti estuary. Additional studies were included on the freshwater

requirements, condition of the estuary, and a ‘snap shot’ water quality

assessment.

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These have been summarised as follows:

Ecological Reserve Estimation

A Desktop Model was used to generate the Reserve estimates. High and

low flows generated from the model were compared with daily flow records

from U3H002. The estimation of the ecological Reserve was found to be

underestimated however it proved difficult to draw any final conclusions

from the study.

An instantaneous peak flow of between 15 and 20 m3/s would be

associated with a mean daily flow of 12 m3/s. The minimum duration

required for such an event would be 3 days with the rising limb lasting for

approximately 12 to 18 hours. An important consideration for the operation

of the Hazelmere Dam will be the calculation of high and low flow triggers

and will need to indicate when high flow releases are to be made.

From this a Management Class was determined using the Rapid

Determination method (DWAF 1999) and modelling. A Management Class

classifies the flow requirements for the Mdloti River downstream of the dam

and is an important consideration ecologically and economically. This

incorporates the present ecological status, ecological importance and

sensitivity, and Ecoregional type. The ecological Reserve was determined

for the requirements downstream and the effects of raising Hazelmere Dam

on river flow assessed. The Instream Flow Requirement (IFR) and the

Estuarine Freshwater Requirement (EFR) were determined using simple

methods suitable for planning purposes.

Freshwater Requirements of the Mdloti Estuary

The following findings were drawn from the study:

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The key aspect maintaining the environmental health of the estuary is

probably the frequency and duration of open mouth conditions.

The estuary was probably more frequently open prior to the construction of

Hazelmere Dam and before the increase in abstraction of water took place,

than is presently the case. The reduction in open mouth conditions is

probably a major reason for the deterioration of the ecology of the estuary

and further deterioration should be avoided.

Mouth closures could increase further in the future if the river flow and

especially the base flow is further reduced.

It is estimated that an outflow channel can be maintained at a base flow of

0,3 m3s-1 to 0,6 m3s-1.

A very first estimate of the average monthly flow requirements in m3s-1 is

presented in

Table 5.2 Estimated Average Monthly Flow Requirements for the

Mdloti Estuary

Month Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May1 Jun1 Jul1 Aug Sep

Q (m3/s) 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.6

% Time 100 100 100 100 100 100 50 50 50 100 1NOTE: During May, June and July the estuary should be open from 2 days before to 5 days after new moon. It is estimated that the discharge of 0.6m3/s would be required for a period of 2 weeks in these months.

It is recommended that field tests be undertaken to confirm or refine these

estimates.

The results could be used to design a water release program as part of a

management plan to meet the requirements of the estuary.

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Further investigations are required on the effects of floods on the estuary if

the occurrence and magnitudes of major floods will be reduced.

Water Quality of the Estuary

In October 1998 the depth of the system ranged from between 1.6m and

3.2m, with there being no evidence that this has changed greatly since

1978. Average water temperatures are 13oC to 27oC for the winter and

summer months. Good wind induced mixing of the surface water prevents

thermal stratification. The salinity of the water in the Mdloti estuary is

generally less than 5gl-1 and this is most likely due to the present closed

mouth conditions. Although dissolved oxygen values recorded are generally

low, these are still within the acceptable range of 80-120% of saturation.

These low figures could be due to organic loading. Average pH for the

Mdloti River was calculated as 8 and is unusually high. This may be due to

photosynthetic activity. Turbidity in the Mdloti estuary is linked with rainfall

where during the summer month’s turbidity levels are high and during low

flow winter conditions the system is relatively clam and clear.

Mineral trace levels can be summarised as follows:

Ammonia

Ammonia concentrations reported in the Mdloti estuary appear to be within

the target range for marine waters (0.6mgl-1).

Nitrate

The nitrate concentrations found in the Mdloti estuary were high and this is

possibly attributed to the application of fertilizers on sugarcane fields.

Nitrate values in 1964 ranged between 0.22mgl-1 in summer and 0.15mgl-1

in winter.

Phosphate

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Phosphate in 1964 ranged between 0.10mgl-1 in summer and 0.74mgl-1 in

winter. Treated effluent from sewage works situated upstream of the

estuary as well as agricultural runoff may be responsible for the slightly

elevated phosphate levels reported in the Mdloti estuary.

High bacterial levels have been recorded in the Mdloti estuary (Coliform

counts of between 5 300 to 21 00 per 100ml; E. coli ranging between 540

and 640 per 100ml and Salmonella reported).

The estuarine water quality index gave an overall rating of ‘fair’ for the

Mdloti River estuary.

Recommendations

The recommendations from the water quality report are as follows:

• The report made specific recommendations with regards

the required flow regime. For the purposes of the EIA, this

aspect is regarded as part of the ecological reserve

process. The ecological reserve for the Mdloti River will be

determined and implemented by the DWAF Minister as

deemed appropriate. It is not expected that this process will

have an impact upon the Hazelemere Dam Raising EIA.

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6. EIA METHODOLOGY

6.1. Consultation with Authorities

A meeting was held on the 16th February 2007 between DEAT, KZN DAEA, and

DWAF to review the EIA process for phase two of the Mooi-Mgeni Transfer

Scheme (MMTS-2) and to address specific issues regarding the environmental

application. Within the context of this meeting, the raising of Hazelmere Dam was

also discussed and reference made to the discussions and recommendations for

the MMTS-2. These can be summarised as follows:

1. Due to the nature of the project, the RoD will remain valid for a longer

period of time.

2. Although the application is still valid under the old EIA Regulations, it will

be necessary to adhere to a particular process. This should be as follows:

2.1. Request that KZN DAEA compile a letter referring the project to

national DEAT in terms of section 4(3)(c) of the EIA Regulations

R1183, on the basis that the applicant is a national government

department.

2.2. Apply to DEAT for an exemption from complying with the EIA

Regulations R1183 in terms of Section 28 of the ECA for the

submission of a scoping report.

2.3. An independent environmental consultant will need to review and

update the various technical reports and conduct another PPP on

behalf of DWAF. These will then be used to compile an environmental

impact report (EIR) with the various reports attached as appendices.

2.4. Apply to DEAT for the amendment of the existing application to ensure

that all relevant listed activities are included in the ROD.

2.5. Submit to DEAT a letter that the independent environmental

consultant accepts the contents of the reports compiled by other

consultants and the findings therein.

2.6. Submit to DEAT a Plan of Study for EIA.

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2.7. During the EIA process, submit to DEAT a letter from the DME

confirming that DWAF has been exempted from complying with

section 106 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act

(Act 28 of 2002).

6.2. Update Specialist Studies

It is important that a site visit be conducted during which all aspects of the

proposed development can be critically assessed and weighed against the

various technical reports. Nemai Consulting will then continue to review the work

conducted to date, update technical reports where necessary and formally accept

the specialist studies where appropriate. In order to accept the specialist studies

the following will need to be conducted:

1. Review and analyse available specialist and supporting reports

2. Identify possible constraints and impacts that may have been overlooked

3. Outline the steps to be followed to obtain and assemble the required

information for the EIA process

4. Identify possible changes to the mitigation measures.

6.3. Public Participation Process (PPP)

The objectives of the public participation process are to:

1. Inform the public of the environmental impacts associated with the proposed

raising of Hazelmere Dam.

2. Confirm previously identified and identify new interested and affected parties

(I&APs) and key stakeholders.

3. Disseminate information to all I&APs.

4. Solicit and register I&APs inputs on issues/concerns, alternatives and

mitigation measures. These inputs will be assessed and investigated further

in the EIA phase.

5. Provide feedback to the I&APs regarding the incorporation of their views in

decision making.

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The first phase of the PPP will be to re-identify the I&APs and stakeholders and

to inform them of the proposed project and progress at such time. As a PPP has

previously been conducted an outdated database comprising a number of I&APs

and stakeholders exists. The contact details will therefore need to be verified and

updated. Registration of additional I&APs will involve a clear description and

definition of the scope of the project and identify any consultation mechanisms

and procedures.

The following methods will be employed to notify I&APs of the proposed project

and of how they can participate:

1. Advertisements will be placed in two regional English newspapers, one

regional Zulu newspaper, and two local English newspapers.

2. Posters will be displayed at prominent public venues around the site of the

proposed project (e.g. libraries, community centres, etc.).

3. Notices will be sent to all I&APS on the database and to owners and

occupiers of land adjacent to the site of the proposed project, to the local

municipality and ward councillors, to community organisations and the

relevant government authorities.

4. A background information document (BID) will be compiled and contain

information regarding the EIA process and a registration form as an

I&APs. This will be made available to the I&APs on the database and at

various public venues.

Where necessary, notices and information documents will be translated into an

appropriate language to facilitate the incorporation of all I&APs to the PPP on an

informed basis.

6.3.1. Public Meeting

A suitable venue for the public meeting is to be located within the project area

and selected for its accessibility to all I&APs. Minutes of all proceedings will be

kept for the public meetings. These will be distributed to all registered I&APs.

I&APs will be afforded a minimum 14 day period in which to comment on whether

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the draft minutes is a true reflection of the meeting, after which the minutes will

be finalised.

A focus group session will be held prior to the public meeting to identify issues

and concerns. One public meeting is to be held which will discuss the project and

obtain public concerns and suggested mitigations. The way forward will be

discussed at the public meeting.

Notice will be given to allow for I&APs to respond and be identified. It is

envisaged that other meetings may be necessary to meet with the various

stakeholders.

6.3.2. Authorities Meeting

An individual meeting will be held with important stakeholders. Consultation with

the relevant authorities at national, provincial and local level will take place by

means of an authorities meeting. It is proposed that this be held early on in the

process to obtain concerns. A follow up may be held after the public meeting.

6.3.3. Feedback Period for I&APs and Reporting

A fixed period for feedback from I&APs will be set after which issues or concerns

raised will not enter into the EIA process. This will be clearly communicated to

the registered I&APs by letter. The I&APs will be able to employ the following

mechanisms to capture issues and concerns:

1. Comment sheets. The background information document will have as an

attachment a loose comment sheet which I&APs can use to raise issues

of concern, provide comment and feedback on the process and comment

on the proposed public meetings.

2. Public meeting. I&APs will be given an opportunity to raise issues of

concern at the public meeting. These are to be incorporated into an issues

and responses report which will be included in the EIR.

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3. Written feedback. I&APs may also indicate issues and concerns on

comment sheets, by telephone, e-mails, in writing, etc. All of these

comments will be captured into the relevant documentation.

Once the draft EIR has been completed a 30-day comment period will be

allocated to allow I&APs an opportunity to comment. This will be done prior to the

submission of the EIR to DEAT.

6.4. EIR

An environmental impact report (EIR) will be compiled once the following has

been completed:

1. An authorities and site meeting conducted

2. The PoS for EIA has been approved

3. A full PPP, including the public meeting, interviews with I&APs and critical

stakeholders

4. All the specialist and supporting studies have been reviewed and updated

The EIR will then be compiled and include all the updated reports as indicated in

Section 1.1 above.

6.4.1. Method of Assessing Impacts

Methods for assessing the potential environmental impacts have been

summarised in four Tables below and been adapted from Swart and

Agenbach (1998). For each impact the extent, magnitude and duration will

be summarised (Table 6.1). The impacts will encompass both the

construction and operational phase of the proposed development. These

criteria will then serve to determine the significance of the impact both with

and without mitigation (Table 6.2). Additionally, a probability of the impact

will be assigned (Table 6.3) and a confidence given as to the information

available in understanding the impact (Table 6.4). It is important to include

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both an understanding of the significance and the likelihood to better

quantify the impact and prioritise mitigation measures.

Table 6.1 Assessment criteria for the evaluation of impacts

CRITERIA CATEGORY DESCRIPTION Regional Beyond 10km of the site boundary

Local Within 10km of the site boundary Extent of impact Site Specific

On site or within 10m of linear infrastructure corridors

High Natural and/or social functions and/or

processes are severely altered

Medium Natural and/or social functions and/or

processes are notably altered

Low Natural and/or social functions and/or

processes are slightly altered

Very Low Natural and/or social functions and/or

processes are negligibly altered

Magnitude of impact

Zero Natural and/or social functions and/or

processes remain unaltered Construction period Up to 5 years

Medium Term 0-10 years after construction Duration of impact Long Term More than 10 years after construction

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Table 6.2 Definition of significance ratings

SIGNIFICANCE RATINGS LEVEL OF CRITERIA REQUIRED

High magnitude with a regional extent and long term duration. High High magnitude with either a regional extent and medium term

duration or a local extent and long term duration

Medium magnitude with a regional extent and long term duration High magnitude with a local extent and medium term duration

Medium High magnitude with a regional extent and construction period or a

site specific extent and long term duration

High magnitude with either a local extent and construction period duration or a site specific extent and medium term duration

Medium magnitude with any combination of extent and duration except site specific and construction period or regional and long term

Low magnitude with a regional extent and long term duration High magnitude with a site specific extent and construction period

duration Medium magnitude with a site specific extent and construction period

duration

Low

Low magnitude with any combination of extent and duration except site specific and construction period or regional and long term

Very low magnitude with a regional extent and long term duration Low magnitude with a site specific extent and construction period

duration Very low Very low magnitude with any combination of extent and duration

except regional and long term

Zero Zero magnitude with any combination of extent and duration

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Table 6.3 Definition of probability ratings

PROBABILITY RATINGS CRITERIA

Definite Estimated greater than 99 % chance of the impact

occurring.

Highly probable Estimated 80 to 99 % chance of the impact

occurring.

Probable Estimated 20 to 80 % chance of the impact

occurring.

Possible Estimated 1 to 20 % chance of the impact

occurring.

Unlikely Estimated less than 1 % chance of the impact

occurring.

Table 6.4 Definition of confidence ratings

CONFIDENCE RATINGS CRITERIA

Certain Wealth of information on and sound

understanding of the environmental factors potentially influencing the impact.

Sure

Reasonable amount of useful information on and relatively sound understanding of the

environmental factors potentially influencing the impact.

Unsure Limited useful information on and

understanding of the environmental factors potentially influencing this impact.

6.4.2. Method of Identifying Significance of Impacts

From the procedure outlined in Section 6.4.1 above, it is possible to

determine the significance of the various impacts and classify them

according to their prescribed severity as follows: Zero, Very Low, Low,

Medium, or High. The report will therefore discuss the ratings assigned to

the various impacts identified.

6.4.3. Method for Assigning Mitigation

Measures to reduce, avoid, or eliminate negative impacts potentially

associated with the proposed project are to be addressed in the report. This

will include an appraisal of when and how mitigation measures are to be

carried out and will address issues pertaining to compensation, relocation,

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and rehabilitation. Additionally, the effect of mitigation on the significance

rating will be summarised in a tabular format. It is important to note that

although a number of mitigation measures may have been investigated

within the EIR, this does not necessarily imply that they are to be

implemented. At the draft EIR stage the applicant will be asked which

mitigation measures are feasible to implement.

6.4.4. Activities and Associated Impacts during Phasing

The report would identify and summarise the activities for the environmental

management plan (EMP) to be complied for the various phases of

construction and is therefore meant to form an introductory overview to

impacts during phasing.

Preconstruction phase

Prior to construction a number of activities are likely to be identified and

these will be addressed. Activities are likely to include site set-up and

establishment as well as the required planning to the activities.

Construction phase

Although the raising of Hazelmere Dam has been previously planned for

and therefore constitutes a simple addition to the existing structure, a

number of important impacts on the environment and surrounding areas

need to be identified and mitigation measures possibly employed.

Operational phase

Due to the magnitude, location, and potential impacts on the environment

both up and down downstream care will be taken to incorporate a holistic

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view to ensure the raising of Hazelmere Dam continues sustainably for the

benefit of future generations.

6.4.5. Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

An EMP will be incorporated into the EIR and will serve to cover the impacts

associated with phasing identified in Section 6.4.4 above. The EMP will also

serve to ensure mitigation measures are in place and that monitoring and

reporting programmes are implemented and complied with.

6.4.6. Time Frames

Due to the urgency of the project, to be completed before 2008, a time

frame has been agreed upon and will need to be closely adhered to.

Nemai Consulting

The following tasks and their expected time frames have been agreed upon

by Nemai Consulting after consultation with DEAT and DWAF. These have

been summarised in Table 6.5.

Table 6.5 Expected Time Frames for the EIA process for the Raising of

Hazelmere Dam

TASK NAME DURATION START FINISH PROGRESS

Project Establishment 66 Days Mon 12/02/2007 Mon 14/05/2007

Project Inception Meetings 10 Days Mon 12/02/2007 Fri 23/02/2007 Complete

Consultations with DAEA 10 Days Mon 26/02/2007 Fri 09/03/2007 Complete

Takeover from DEAT 15 Days Mon 12/03/2007 Fri 30/03/2007 Complete

Consultations with DEAT 5 Days Mon 02/04/2007 Fri 06/04/2007 Complete

Applications to DEAT 5 Days Mon 09/04/2007 Fri 13/04/2007 Complete

Submit PoS for EIA 10 Days Mon 02/04/2007 Fri 30/04/2007

Site Visit 1 Day Mon 16/04/2007 Mon 16/04/2007

Review Specialist Studies 20 Days Tue 17/04/2007 Mon 14/05/2007

Approval of PoS for EIA 14 Days Mon 30/04/2007 Thu 16/05/2007

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Public Participation 55 Days Tue 13/03/2007 Mon 28/05/2007

List I&APs 10 Days Tue 13/03/2007 Mon 26/03/2007

Advertise Public Meeting 1 Day Fri 04/05/2007 Fri 04/05/2007

Public Meeting 1 Day Fri 25/05/2007 Fri 25/05/2007

Authorities Meeting 1 Day Mon 28/05/2007 Mon 28/05/2007

EIR 40 Days Fri 04/05/2007 Thu 28/06/2007

Update Specialist Studies 10 Days Fri 04/05/2007 Thu 17/05/2007

Update SIA 10 Days Fri 04/05/2007 Thu 17/05/2007

Compile EIR 10 Days Fri 18/05/2007 Thu 31/05/2007

Public Review of EIR 20 Days Fri 01/06/2007 Thu 28/06/2007

DEAT Review 114 Days Fri 29/06/2007 Wed 05/12/2007

Submission to DEAT for Review 1 Day Fri 29/06/2007 Fri 29/06/2007

ROD Received 90 Days Mon 02/07/2007 Fri 02/11/2007

Advertise ROD 23 Days Mon 05/11/2007 Wed 05/12/2007

Authorities

DEAT has agreed that 14 days is sufficient time to review and accept the PoS for

EIA, and 90 days for the review of the EIR and issuing of a RoD. DEAT also

agreed that 14 days notification for the public meetings is sufficient.

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7. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1. Need for Additional Information

Nemai Consulting has yet to critically review the work conducted to date and

identify components of the various reports that may need updating. As such a

summary of the recommendations from the various specialist studies is

presented Table 7.1 instead.

Table 7.1 Summary of Section 5.4: additional information required

REPORT STATUS RECOMMENDATIONS

EIA Report Update Update specialist reports where required

Conduct PPP

Flora Report Complete Review

Biophysical Report Complete Review

SIA Update Conduct PPP

Archaeological Survey Update Heritage Study

Flood Frequency Analysis Complete

Hydrology Report Complete

Engineering Report Complete

7.2. Way Forward

In conclusion, from this Plan of Study and from a meeting between KZN DAEA,

DEAT, and DWAF the following can be summarised and still necessary to

complete to be compliant with the old EIA Regulations:

• Application for exemption to DEAT to compile with the EIA Regulations

R1183 in terms of section 28 of the ECA for the submission of a scoping report

• Conduct a site visit to assess appropriateness of the various specialist

reports

• Re-conduct a full PPP

• Update specialist reports and compile an EIR

o Includes an operational and construction EMP

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REFERENCES

Abrahamson, C.J. (2003) Engineering Report. Supporting specialist report for the

Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. DAWF Report No. PB U300-00-0401.

Abrhamson, C.J. and Hansford, J.R. (2002) Main Report. Supporting specialist

report for the Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. Draft 1. DWAF Report No.

PB U300-00-0901.

Alletson, J. (2001) Assessment of certain biophysical impacts associated with the

proposed raising of the Hazelmere Dam water level. Supporting specialist report

for the Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study.

Anderson, G. (2002) Archaeological Survey. Supporting specialist report for the

Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. DWAF Report No. PBU300-0901.

Anon (2003) Flood Frequency Analysis Report. Supporting specialist report for

the Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. DAWF Report No. U300-R001-

9912.

Anon (2003) Water Quality Report. Supporting specialist report for the

Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. DAWF Report No. PB U300-00-0501.

DWAF (1999) Resources directed measures for protection of water resources,

river ecosystems. Version 1.0 DWAF Report number N/29/99

Edwards, T. (2001) Vegetation Study of the Areas to be Inundated around

Hazelmere Dam. Supporting specialist report for the Hazelmere Dam raising

feasibility study.

Hansford, J.R. (2003) Hydrology Report. Supporting specialist report for the

Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study. DWAF Report No. PB U300-00-0301.

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Huggins, S. and Mkhize, G. (2001) Social Impact Assessment. Supporting

specialist report for the Hazelmere Dam raising feasibility study.

Palmer, R.W., Huggins, G., Mkhize, S., Edwards, T., Alletson, J., and Chutter,

F.M. (2002) Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Hazelmere Dam raising

feasibility study (Final). DWAF Report No. PB U300-00-0701.

Swart, E. and Agenbach, C. (1998) Guideline document. EIA Regulations:

Implementation of Sections 21 22 and 26 of the Environment Conservation Act.

Environmental Impact Management, Department of Environmental Affairs and

Tourism.