4.4.2. Fauna - CESNET River Estuary... · 4.4.2. Fauna Invertebrates Loss of, ... turn species and seagull species. The transformed nature of the estuary mouth provides a sheltered

Draft Situation Assessment Report – March 2016

EOH Coastal & Environmental Services Buffalo River Estuary 49

4.4.2. Fauna Invertebrates Loss of, or changes in habitat significantly contribute to the decline in overall invertebrate health in an estuary. Changes in mouth state and a related loss of connectivity also influences overall invertebrate health in an estuary. Loss in flow variability and/or changes in baseflows are highlighted as a reason for a decline in invertebrate health, while the loss of resetting floods estimated to be significant in many estuaries. Shifts in the salinity regime also contribute. A decline in water quality (i.e. reduction in oxygen, increase turbidity or presence of toxins, e.g. herbicides and pesticides) further impacts on the invertebrate health in an estuary. In addition the loss or change in microalgae abundance in estuaries is also a significant factor in the reduction in invertebrate health. Van Niekerk et al. (2014) assigned a PES of D: Largely modified to the invertebrate health of the Buffalo River estuary. The key pressures indicated were loss of flow variability, loss of resettling floods, changes in the salinity regime, reduced water quality, physical habitat degradation, and changes in the microalgae and macrophyte communities. Fish Estuary size, mouth status and geographical location influence the production and value of individual estuaries. Estuarine biodiversity and fisheries considerations aside, estuaries are also important as nursery and source areas for marine fisheries. Coastwise, estuary-associated species comprise 85% of the catch of the commercial beach-seine and gillnet fisheries and 10% of that of the commercial and recreational boat linefisheries. Accounting for different degrees of estuary-association amongst fishes as well as differences in the value of individual fisheries, it is estimated that estuaries contribute 25% of the value of South African inshore marine fisheries (Lamberth & Turpie 2003). The total value of estuarine fisheries and estuary contribution to marine fisheries is R1.8-2 billion per annum (2014 rands adapted from Lamberth & Turpie 2003). Van Niekerk et al. (2014) assigned a PES of D: Largely modified to the fish health of the Buffalo River estuary. The key pressures indicated were loss of flow variability, loss of resettling floods, salinity, decreased water quality, physical habitat loss, changes in macroalgae community, changes in macrophyte community, and changes in food source (invertebrates). Birds In addition to being one of the most conspicuous forms of biodiversity in estuaries, birds are thought to play a significant ecological role in these systems, both in terms of the regulation of invertebrate and fish populations, and as an importer of nutrients into some systems. The waders, gulls and terns are the most numerous group overall, and tend to be the most common species on the larger estuarine systems, where they occur mainly on the intertidal areas in the lower parts of estuaries (Turpie and Clark 2007). The rest of the groups are associated with the channel areas, and some of them require marginal and bank vegetation. Most of these species are piscivorous, apart from the waterfowl which are predominantly herbivorous or omnivorious. While over 100 waterbird species have been recorded in estuaries, only 33 species were deemed to be dependent on estuaries (Turpie and Clark 2007). Van Niekerk et al. (2014) assigned a PES of E: Seriously modified to the bird health of the Buffalo River estuary. The key pressures indicated were physical habitat degradation, and changes in loss/change in macrophyte habitat, changes in food availability (invertebrates), and recreational activities.


EOH Coastal & Environmental Services Buffalo River Estuary

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5. ECOSYSTEM GOODS SERVICES AND THREATS TO ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING

5.1. Introduction The Buffalo River estuary is situated in the in town of East London in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Three Municipalities fall within the Buffalo River Catchment with a total of 48 electoral wards (Figure 5.1). These municipalities are the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (38 wards), the Amahlathi Local Municipality (9 wards) and the Ngqushwa Local Municipality (2 wards). The Buffalo River Catchment area has approximately 642 000 inhabitants and has one of the highest population densities in the Eastern Cape. The population density is highest in the middle and lower reaches of the catchment. The largest towns in this area are East London, Bhisho, King William’s Town, Zwelitsha and Mdanstane (River Health Programme, 2004).

Figure 5.1: Wards in the Buffalo River Catchment Area Estuarine ecosystems provide a variety of resources that contribute to their economic and social value. These resources contribute to the local and nation economic in two ways:

1. Direct contribution through the provision of subsistence resources as well as recreational resources, for example subsistence fisheries, tourism actives and cultural activities.

2. Indirect contribution through the provision of ecological services, for example providing nursery areas for economically important fish species (e.g. kob).



The resources provided by estuarine ecosystems are increasingly threatened by a variety of factors that can be attributed to both human activities (e.g. infrastructure development) and natural processes (e.g. climate change). It is important to understand the extent that these factors affect an estuarine system in order to effectively manage the sustainability of these resources.

5.2. Socio-economic profile The following is a summary of the socio-economic profile of the Buffalo River Catchment, largely drawn from the StatsSA 2011 –

Approximately 44% of the labour force is unemployed.

17% of households reported having no form of income, with approximately 62% of households reporting an annual income of R76 400 or less.

More than 91% of households’ main source of water is formally provided by a water services provider.

The majority of households (68%) have flush toilets connected to a sewage system or septic tank, with 27% using chemical, Pit or Bucket systems and 5% reported having no form of sanitation system.

Approximately 34% of households have no formal refuse removal. Agriculture is widespread in the middle reaches of the catchment, predominantly in the form of subsistence farming, goat, cattle and sheep farming are prevalent.

5.3. Goods and services provided by the Buffalo River Estuary

5.3.1. The resource Estuarine ecosystem goods and services are defined as the benefits that result from the ecological functioning of a healthy estuarine ecosystem. The ecosystem services that are provided are directly linked to the ecosystem goods. Table 5.1 identifies the ecosystem goods and services that are provided by the Buffalo River estuary. Table 5.1: The ecosystem goods and services provided by the Buffalo River estuary.

Ecosystem goods Ecosystem services

Clean air Air quality is improved and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced through the photosynthetic processes associated with the vegetation that is found along the banks of the Buffalo River estuary.

Improved water quality The Buffalo River Estuary contributes to the dilution and assimilation of waste that that enters the estuary as a result of activities that occur both within the estuarine zone and the catchment area. Waste is diluted by the water column as well as through the influence of tidal movements. Organic and inorganic wastes are also assimilated and accumulated in the sediment of the Buffalo River Estuary.

Natural resources Small scale subsistence and recreational fishing and bait collection is practiced in the Buffalo River estuary. However, the estuary does not support large scale or commercial fishing.

Habitat The Buffalo River estuary provides a nursery for fish and invertebrate species that require estuaries as a part of their life cycle. Examples of the species that have been recorded in the Buffalo River Estuary include dusky kob (Argyrosomus japonicas), spotted grunter (Pomadasys commersonnii), blacktail (Diplodus sargus capensis) and mullet (Family Mugilidae).



Ecosystem goods Ecosystem services

The banks of the estuary provide a habitat for numerous bird species. Those that have been recorded include, but are not limited to, African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer), goliath heron (Ardea goliath), numerous kingfisher species, sand piper species, turn species and seagull species. The transformed nature of the estuary mouth provides a sheltered habitat for mammals such as the resident bottle nosed dolphins (Tursiops sp.) and humpback dolphins (Sousa sp.).

Access to the coastal zone The Buffalo River estuary is the only river port in South Africa. The estuary mouth, although transformed and developed, provides safe access to the sea for port-related activities. The estuary also provides a sheltered refuge for various ships that have docked at the port. The port, and its associated access to the sea, provides an important link to the global market by facilitating the import and export market that operates from industry in East London. This forms an important part of the promotion of local economic development in East London. Important imported products that arrive at the Port of East London include grain and petro-chemical products. Important export products include automotive products.

Recreation Recreational activities take place within the Buffalo River estuary. These activities include rowing, yachting and ski boat launching and fishing. An active yacht club, ski boat club and rowing club operate within the Buffalo River estuary.

Tourism A small scale tourism industry has developed around the Buffalo River Estuary due to it being the only river port in South Africa. The historic Latimers Landing is a tourism landmark that is attributed to the rediscovery of the coelacanth. Other tourism operators are based in the Buffalo River Estuary, including a small scale cruise operator.

Research opportunities The Buffalo River estuary provides a number of research opportunities that cover a broad range of topics. Examples of these research topics include water quality, estuarine and marine ecology, ichthyology, microbiology, climate change, urban development, invasive species, etc.

Aesthetic/ Scenic value The Buffalo River Estuary provides aesthetic value through its unique topography, in particular the steep slopes that form the banks of the estuary, providing habitat for indigenous fauna and flora. The port also provides aesthetic value with regards to the infrastructure associated with it. This includes the restaurants, bars, yacht club and rowing club being located at the port.

5.3.2. Resource users Direct users Direct users utilise resources provided by the Buffalo River estuary for financial or recreational purposes and directly benefit from the utilisation of the resources provided by the estuary. The primary use associated with the Buffalo River Estuary is the use of the estuary mouth as South Africa’s only river port. It is through port activities that the majority of the economic value of the estuary is derived. Secondary to that are the recreation activities that are associated with the estuary.



The direct users include the tenants that are associated with the Port of East London, as well as members of the public who utilise the natural resources provided for both subsistence and recreational purposes (i.e. fishermen, bait collectors, etc.).The direct resource users associated with the Buffalo River estuary are:

BP South Africa

Chevron (Pty) Ltd

Engen

Total South Africa

Vukani Petroleum

East London Boating Association

Buffalo River Yacht Club (Figure 5.2)

Buffalo River Rowing Club (Figure 5.3)

East London Ski Boat club (Figure 5.4)

Sea Spirit Fisheries (Figure 5.5)

National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) (Figure 5.6)

Latimers Landing (Figure 5.7)

Ballhoo Restaurant and Cruises

A&F Freeshore

Footprints café

South African Police Service (SAPS): Water Wing (Figure 5.8)

Mercedes Benz South Africa (Figure 5.9)

General public i.e. recreational and small scale subsistence fishermen

Figure 5.5: East London Yacht Club

Figure 5.3: The Buffalo River Rowing Club

Figure 5.4: The Buffalo River Ski Boat Club



Figure 5.5: Sea Spirit Fisheries

Figure 5.6: The NSRI

Figure 5.7: Latimers Landing

Figure 5.8: SAPS Water Wing

Figure 5.9: Mercedes Benz South Africa

A list of the tenants associated with the Port of East London and their contact details are provided in Appendix A. Indirect Users Indirect users are defined as users that indirectly rely on resources the Buffalo River estuary provide. Examples of ways in which the Buffalo River is indirectly utilised includes tourism, nursery areas for marine fish and waste water disposal.



Tourism: The tourism value of the Buffalo River estuary is found in the fact the East London port is the only river port in South Africa. Due to the transformed state of the Buffalo River estuary, the estuary itself is not promoted as a tourist attraction by the BCMM’s tourism campaign. Other tourism attractions within the Buffalo River estuary include:

Steve Biko Bridge – named after the famous anti-apartheid activist who died in 1977.

Historical Pontoon Road – IN the late 1900’s, Pontoon Road denoted the boundary of the port.

Latimer’s Landing – The jetty at Latimer’s Landing is representative as typical example of early wooden jetties and has been reported to be the only remaining wooden jetty in South Africa. Historical records show that it is the jetty where Ms Courtney-Latimer identified the coelacanth among the catch of a local fisherman. The jetty was subsequently named after her. An application has been submitted to the South African Heritage Resources Agency to refurbish the wooden jetty at Latimers Landing, which is in a poor condition.

Kings Warehouse

Victoria slipway

Princess Elizabeth Graving Dock

Hood Point lighthouse – constructed in 1895 Nursery areas for marine fish: Historically the Buffalo River estuary is likely to have been an important nursery area for a number of species whose juveniles are entirely dependent on estuaries, including flathead mullet, dusky kob and spotted grunter. Despite the transformed state of the Buffalo River estuary, the estuary does still fulfil this function as adult and juvenile specimens of the above mentioned species are caught be recreation fishermen. However, the actual productivity of the estuary has not been determined and further studies would be required to ascertain whether the transformed state of the estuary has affected its functioning as a nursery for marine fish species. Waste disposal/ water purification: Wetlands and estuaries are widely considered to have the capacity to dilute, absorb and/or recycle wastes, and are commonly used for this purpose. Although there are no major discharges directly into Buffalo River estuary, the influent rivers all carry a pollution load. First Creek (Figure 5.10) and Second Creek (Figure 5.11) are examples of influent rivers that contribute to the inflow of sewerage, stormwater, domestic and industrial run off into the Buffalo River estuary. Moreover, there are a number of stormwater drains from the port and surrounding developments discharging into the estuary (Figure 5.12).



Figure 5.10: First Creek, where a significant contribution of non-point source pollution enters the Buffalo River estuary is derived from.

Figure 5.11: Second Creek, where a significant contribution of non-point source pollution enters the Buffalo River estuary is derived from.

Figure 5.12: A stormwater drain that discharges stormwater into the estuary from the port and surrounding areas

5.4. Threats to ecological functioning and ecosystem services The NBA 2011 Estuary Technical Report identifies the major pressure that affect the ecological functioning of the Buffalo River estuary as being change in water flow and pollution. Habitat loss and fishing effort were considered minor threats to the Buffalo River estuary’s ecological functioning. With regards to the specific ecological goods and services provided by the Buffalo River Estuary, a variety of factors threaten the sustainability of these ecological goods and services. The nature and significance of the threats that impact the provision of these ecological goods and services are discussed in Table 5.2 below:



Table 5.2: The nature and significance of identified threats to the ecosystem goods and services provided by the Buffalo River estuary.

Ecosystem goods and services Nature of threats

Clean air - The air quality is improved and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced through the photosynthetic processes associated with the vegetation that is found along the banks of the Buffalo River estuary.

Due to the steep topography of the banks of the Buffalo River estuary, the vegetation along the banks for the majority of the EFZ remains fairly intact and is not significantly threatened.

Small foot paths have been noted along the banks of the estuary, which are utilised by subsistence fisherman (Figure 6.12). Very little clearing of vegetation associated with the paths created by the fishermen have been observed.

However, the banks of the estuary within the port area have been entirely transformed and very little vegetation remains.

Improved water quality - Estuaries contribute the dilution and assimilation of waste that that enters the Buffalo River estuary as a result of activities that occur both within the estuarine zone and the catchment area. Waste is diluted by the water column as well as through the influence of tidal movements. Organic and inorganic wastes are assimilated and accumulated in the sediment of the Buffalo River estuary.

The areas surrounding the Buffalo River EFZ are characterised by the presence of light industrial, formal residential and informal residential settlements.

Waste water treatment works, landfill sites, cemeteries and stormwater run-off directly impact the two primary tributaries that feed into the Buffalo River estuary. These developments severely threaten the water quality of the Buffalo River estuary.

Raw sewerage has previously been observed by tenants of the port flowing into the Buffalo River estuary (Pers. Comm. from Mark McArthur – Sea Spirit Fisheries).

Industrial effluent being discharged into the estuary has also been observed and is depicted in Figure 6.13. BCMM has indicated that laboratory test results on the effluent revealed high levels of zinc (Pers. Comm. Syanda Yamba).

Dredging activities associated with the maintenance of the port result in organic and inorganic wastes assimilated in the sediment being released back into the water column.

Activities associated with the upgrading of the port infrastructure can contribute to the deterioration of the water quality of these activities are not properly monitored. For example, drilling activities associated with the construction of a new quay in the harbour resulted in drilling fluid and oil being released into the estuary (Figure 6.14).

Other port activities may contribute to the deteriorating water quality. For example the accidental release of ballast water from ships (the Port of East London does not permit the release of ballast water within the harbour), cleaning activities that take place on ships that have docked (Figure 6.15) and activities that occur within the dry dock when maintenance operations on vessels are




underway.

Natural resources – small scale and subsistence fisheries,

Small scale subsistence and recreational fishing and bait collection is practiced in the Buffalo River estuary.

However, the estuary does not support large scale or commercial fishing.

Habitat - The Buffalo River estuary provides a nursery for fish and invertebrate species that require estuaries as a part of their life cycle. Some examples of these species that have been recorded in the Buffalo River estuary include dusky kob, spotted grunter, blacktail, and mullet. The banks of the estuary provide habitat for numerous bird species. Species that have been recorded include, but are not limited to, African fish eagle, goliath heron, numerous kingfisher species, sand piper species, turn species, seagull species to name a few. The transformed nature of the estuary mouth provides a sheltered habitat for mammals such as the resident bottle nosed dolphins and humpback dolphins.

The poor water quality of the Buffalo River estuary may negatively affected the functioning of the Buffalo River estuary as a nursery area. However, no studies have been conducted to assess the importance of the Buffalo River as a nursery for marine fish and invertebrates.

The banks of the mid- and upper reaches of the estuary are not heavily threatened by development. The steep topography of the banks of the estuary makes it difficult for development and clearing of vegetation to occur. However, the banks of the easterly mouth have been completely transformed by the port and little natural vegetation remains.

Infrastructure has been constructed within the EFZ, which affects the availability and condition of habitats available within the Buffalo River estuary for estuarine fauna and flora. This infrastructure includes jetties (Figure 6.16), slipways (Figure 6.17), gabions (Figure 6.18), quays (Figure 6.19) and road and railway bridges (Figure 6.20).

Access to the sea - The Buffalo River estuary is the only river port in South Africa. The estuary mouth, although transformed and developed, provides safe access to the sea for port-related activities. The estuary also provides a sheltered refuge for ships that have docked at the port. The port, and its associated access to the sea, provides an important link to the global market by facilitating the import and export market that operates from industry in East London. This forms an important part of the promotion of local economic development in East London. Important imported products that arrive at the Port of East London include grain and petro-chemical products. Important export products include automotive products.

The primary use of the Buffalo River estuary is the estuary mouth as South Africa’s only river port. The primary source of income derived from the estuary is through the port activities.

The NBA (2011) identifies changes water flow as a threat to the ecological functioning of the Buffalo River estuary. Water flow is affected by dams that are located up river within the catchment and agricultural activities occurring on the banks of the Buffalo river in the upper reaches of the catchment resulting in increased sedimentation of the river.

However, the estuary mouth is dredged by the port authority to enable ships to access the port. Therefore, the likelihood of sedimentation affecting access to the sea as minimal.

Recreation - Recreational activities take place within the Buffalo River estuary. These activities include rowing, yachting and ski boat launching and fishing. An active yacht club, ski boat club and rowing club operate within the Buffalo River estuary.

While recreational activities are not the primary use for the Buffalo River estuary, the poor water quality of the Buffalo River estuary severely threatens recreational activities that take place, particularly with regards to the rowing club, yacht club. Swimming in the estuary rarely takes place due to the water quality being an issue and the resulting fear of disease and illness.

Tourism - A small scale tourism industry has The tourism industry surrounding the Buffalo River




developed around the Buffalo River Estuary due to it being the only river port in South Africa. The historic Latimers Landing is a tourism landmark that is attributed to the rediscovery of the coelacanth. Other tourism operators operate out of the Buffalo River estuary, including a small scale cruise operator.

estuary is primarily focused on the facilities and infrastructure located at the port with only a small part being played by the aesthetic value of the estuary.

The poor water quality associated with the estuary negatively impacts the tourism potential of the estuary by lowering the aesthetic, health and safety value of the estuary.

Research opportunities - The Buffalo River estuary provides a number of research opportunities that cover a broad range of topics. Examples of these research topics include water quality, estuarine and marine ecology, ichthyology, microbiology, climate change, urban development, invasive species, etc.

With water quality having been identified as the primary threat to the ecosystem functioning of the Buffalo River estuary, and little research having been conducted on the ecology of the estuary as a whole, there are many research opportunities within the Buffalo River estuary.

Figure 6.12: Fishermen’s footpaths and fishing

spots where little vegetation is removed

Figure 6.13: Industrial effluent being discharged

into the Buffalo River Estuary

Figure 6.14: Port activities such as upgrading of quays and piers taking place in the Buffalo River

Estuary

Figure 6.15: A docked ship’s deck and anchor being

cleaned in the port



Figure 6.16: Floating and fixed jetties have been

constructed within the Buffalo River estuary

Figure 6.17: The construction of slipways within the

Buffalo River estuary

Figure 6.18: the presence of gabions to stabilise the

banks of the Buffalo River estuary

Figure 6.19: Quays within the Buffalo River estuary

Figure 6.20: Road and railway bridges that have been constructed within the Buffalo River estuary



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6. OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE EMP

6.1. Opportunities The opportunities for effective integrated management of the Bufflo River Estuary were identified through the desktop assessment and site visits as well as through stakeholder engagement. The opportunities that were identified are described in detail below. 6.1.1. TNPA Long Term Port Framework The East London area of land within the port limits is currently 131ha, making it the smallest port after Mossel Bay. This area includes narrow land on both sides of the river, and an off-site liquid bulk tank farm. The steepness of the surrounding topography and restrictions caused by the upstream bridges mean that there is very limited opportunity to acquire additional quayside area. Seaward expansion through reclamation on the outside of the breakwater is possible but is not considered financially viable. Seventy-three hectares of port land is zoned as open space or for other TNPA usage, this high percentage of the total area confirming the extent of steeply sloping ground. Ten hectares is used for the MPT operation, 18ha for liquid bulk operations, and 9ha for vehicle handling. Short Term Planning Planned in the short term is the acquisition of land north of the multi-purpose container terminal for TNPA back of port use which is dedicated to operations for the maritime commercial sector. An existing ship repair facility has also been repaired and will become operational in the short term for use.

Figure 6.1: Short term plan for the Port of East London Medium Term Planning



The medium term plan proposes to lengthen the main breakwater and develop a new secondary breakwater, together with a deepened entrance channel. This will allow larger vessels to make use of the port as a result of the increased protected turning area. The maritime commercial areas will also undergo further expansion throughout the port as its dedicated land usage increases.

Figure 6.2: The medium term plan for the Port of East London Long Term Planning The long term layout indicates the potential for a new two berth terminal to be developed on the breakwater, with a reclaimed cargo handling area. 6.1.2. Research

Fort Hare University is currently conducting research on water quality in the Buffalo River and the estuary.

There is potential to study the status of the Buffalo River Estuary as nursery ground for marine species.

There are climate change research opportunities that look at the effect of climate change of the ecological processes of a transformed estuarine system.



6.1.3. Water quality monitoring

CSIR developed a comprehensive Water Quality Monitoring Plan in 2002. This plan needs to be reviewed and updated and then implemented within the Buffalo River Estuary.

TNPA have a water and sediment quality monitoring programme, which will also require review and will need to be updated.

DWS have a number of water quality monitoring programmes, which could benefit the integrated management requirements for the Buffalo River Estuary in terms of monitoring water quality within the catchment and the estuary itself.

BCMM also have a water quality monitoring programme. The Buffalo River Estuary will benefit from being incorporated into the BCMM water quality monitoring programme.

6.1.4. Infrastructure development

The construction of new bridge across Buffalo River Estuary has been proposed.

A permit application has been submitted to SAHRA for the proposed upgrade of Latimers Landing. The status of the application has not yet been confirmed.

6.1.5. Opportunities identified at the stakeholder workshop A stakeholder workshop was held on the 15th of March 2016 where a wide variety of stakeholder were present. Key stakeholder from DEA: Oceans and Coasts, DWS, TNPA and BCMM were present. Opportunities for the management of the Buffalo River Estuary were discussed and these opportunities include the following: Waste

Technical solutions for solid waste management need to be explored by engaging with engineers, particularly for Second Creek.

High-risk industries (E.g. Waste recycling facility) need to be targeted as major contributors to discharge into the Buffalo River Estuary and need to be held accountable. The implementation of a “polluter Pays” principal could be adopted.

A potential method of monitoring industrial waste that feeds into the Buffalo River Estuary is to ensure that Safety Disposal Certificates for hazardous waste be checked regularly by BCMM.

Some industrial facilities are audited while some are not. Therefore BCMM to improve auditing process.

BCMM would need to monitor and control the smaller, home-based body shops/ repair facilities in the areas surrounding the Bufflao River Estuary to minimise the amount of oil, petrol, paint and other related chemicals that are irresponsibly dumped and ultimately impact on the Buffalo River Estuary.

Litter control by BCMM needs to be improved to minimise the amount of solid waste that ends up in the Buffalo River Estuary.

Emergency Response plans for spillages of hazardous substances need to be developed and implemented.

Water quality monitoring

DWS have confirmed that they have current water quality data – EOH CES has been engaging directly with DWS to obtain this data.

Through Operation Phasiksa, the development and implementation of monitoring programmes can potentially be facilitated.



Better monitoring of trade effluent needs to be implemented.

BCMM participated in Green Drop programme and therefore should aim to maintain the Green Drop Status.

Cooperative governance

Establishment of an Estuary Management Forum with multifaceted stakeholder involvement needs to be prioritised.

The establishment of a BCMM Coastal Protection Unit is underway. DEDEAT are working with BCMM to outline the mandate of unit and the management of the Buffalo River Estuary could be incorporated into this Unit’s mandate.

Promote the sharing of best practice guidelines/protocols with regards to industrial waste disposal with private and government entities working together.

Collaboration between TNPA, BCMM, DEA: O+C, DWS Amatola Water, Industry, business, private entities, etc. needs to be prioritised.

There is an opportunity to link pollution and environmental issues with employment and local economic development in order to gain further institutional support for estuarine management.

Need to engage DTI, SALGA, BKCOB, ECPTA moving forward. Implementation, compliance and enforcement

A review of coastal bylaws to incorporate management issues relating to the Buffalo River Estuary could be considered.

Regulators need to apply the mechanisms that they have at their disposal.

Through Operation Phakisa, graduates can be employed to implement coastal and estuarine management through Working for the Coast programmes.

Research, education and awareness

There is an agreement in place that facilitates the sharing of information between universities (NMMU, FHU and WSU). A Memorandum of Understanding is already in place and this process is being facilitated by DEA.

Focus on creating awareness in communities about where their waste ends up needs to be implemented.

Petrol stations also need to be made aware of over filling tanks and the resulting pillage of fuel that washes into watercourses.

Tourism and recreation

East London Boating Association (ELBA) can contribute to the promotion of tourism through marketing of their regattas. ELBA has previously been approached to host the South African rowing championship but had to decline due to a lack of space to upgrade the rowing club infrastructure to be able to accommodate an event of this size. The annual Buffalo River Regatta has recently had Supersport coverage.

Protected areas

Identification of formalised conservation areas within the Estuarine Functional Zone needs to be prioritised in the EMP.



6.2. Constraints The constraints for the effective implementation of estuarine management objectives were identified during the desktop assessment, site visits and stakeholder engagement. The constraints that were identified are described below. 6.2.1. Data pertaining the Buffalo River Estuary No current water quality data for the estuary is available. Therefore it is difficult to determine the actual present state of the estuary. There is a lack of Buffalo River Estuary specific biotic data, with specific reference to birds, fish, invertebrates, mico-algae and macrophytes. Data from existing monitoring plans is often difficult to obtain. 6.2.2. Monitoring and enforcement Many current monitoring programmes have not been recently updated. Current monitoring programmes do not include biological monitoring. There is difficulty with regards to monitoring, capacity and enforcement within municipal structures, especially with regards to the enforcement of bylaws. There is a lack of coordination between public, private and government entities with regards to management of the estuary. 6.2.3. Estuarine Zone of Influence The estuarine zone of influence has not been finalised and incorporated a complex set of issues influences. This has implications with regards to the implementation of the estuarine management plan. 6.2.4. Challenges within the catchment A large majority of impacts affecting the Buffalo River Estuary are non-point sources of pollution and infrastructure, which occur within the catchment area. This has practical impacts on the implementation of the estuarine management plan, where implementation responsibilities may fall outside of the mandate of the implementing agents. 6.2.5. Infrastructure development The topography of the Buffalo River Estuary makes it difficult for expansion activities to take place. Expansion of the port and other businesses along the estuary are inhibited by the lack of space in which to expand and develop further. East London Boating Association (ELBA) have indicated that there is a need for them to expand their existing facilities to be able to host larger sporting events. However, there is limited space in which to expand to due to the topography of the area.



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7. RECOMMENDATIONS TO ADDRESS MAJOR INFORMATION GAPS

7.1. Major Information Gaps The major information gaps pertaining to the Stuation Assessment Report include the following:

A. There is a lack of current water quality data specific to the Buffalo River Estuary. B. There is a lack of current biotic data specific to the Buffalo River Estuary. C. The Ecological Reserve Study has been conducted but the information is difficult to access. D. The boundaries of the Estuarine Zone of Influence have not been finalised.

7.2. Recommendations to address gaps The following recommendations have been proposed to address the information gaps that have been identified:

A. There is a lack of current water quality data specific to the Buffalo River Estuary.

Current water quality data must be obtained from BCMM Scientific Services, BCMM Environmental Health and TNPA.

B. There is a lack of current biotic data specific to the Buffalo River Estuary.

Universities, SAIAB, East London Museum, BCMM Scientific Services and BCMM Environmental Health must assist in providing relevant information where available.

Unavailable information must be prioritised in the Buffalo River EMP as research opportunities.

C. The Ecological Reserve Study has been conducted but the information is difficult to access.

The Ecological Reserve Study must be finalised and the results must be made available.

D. The boundaries of the Estuarine Zone of Influence have not been finalised.

Collaboration between EOH CES, DEA: Oceans and Coasts, Universities, BCMM Scientific Services and BCMM Environmental Health must take place in order to finalise the boundaries of the EZI.



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8. REFERENCES Still to add reference list



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APPENDIX A: STAKEHOLDERS LIST OF STAKEHOLDERS Authorities and organs of State

Organisation Name Responsibility Resource Component (NEMP Protocol)

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Xola Mkefe Coastal Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Luvuyo Bali Specialist Monitoring Services Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Daisy Kotsedi Coastal Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Jabulile Nhleko Biodiversity and Coastal Research

Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Apiwe Mdunyelwa Coastal Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Ntombovuyo Madlokazi

Coastal Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation

DEA: Oceans and Coasts Kwanela Meva Coastal Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation

SANBI Andrew Skowno Biodiversity Research, Assessment & Monitoring Lead Scientist (National Biodiversity Assessment)

Conservation

DEDEAT: Amathole Region Briant Noncembu Regional Manager Conservation (Regional)

DEDEAT: Amathole Region Ricky Hannan Coastal Zone Management Conservation (Regional)

DEDEAT: Amathole Region Leigh-Ann Kretzmann

Coastal Zone Management Conservation (Regional)

DEDEAT: Amathole Region Loyiso Nondlebe Coastal Zone Management Conservation (Regional)

DEDEAT: Provincial Sandiso Zide Coastal Zone Management Conservation (Provincial)

DEDEAT: Provincial Xolani Nikelo Coastal Zone Management Conservation (Provincial)

DWS: Amathole Region Lizna Fourie Water (regional), Waste water

DWS: Amathole Region Landile Jack Water (regional), Waste water

DWS: Amathole Region Mlondolozi Mbikwana

Water (regional), Waste water

Amatola Water Nikite Muller Environmental Specialist Water (Catchment Management Agency?)

DAFF: Fisheries Lungile Nodwala Assistant Director: North East Coast Compliance

Living Resources

BCMM Planning Raymond Foster Land use planning and development (Local

BCMM Planning Director

BCMM Engineering Director



BCMM Water and Sanitation

Mark Westerberg Municipality), Solid waste management, Waste Water, Recreational Water Quality

BCMM Environmental Health

Ernest Tapile

BCMM Integrated Environmental Management

Jane Gallow

BCMM Waste Management Nompelo Daniels

BCMM Scientific Services Deanne Karshagen

TNPA Nelson Mbatha Ports

TNPA Nozuko Litile Ports

TNPA Lumko Ncapai Ports

ECPHRA Sello Provincial Heritage Authority Heritage Areas

East London Port – Tenants

Tenant Name Responsibility Email

MBSA Reggy Robert Environmental Officer

[email protected]

E L Boating Assoc Carl Muller President [email protected]

E L Boating Assoc Mark Lindström [email protected]

Buffalo River Yacht Club Derek Strutt Commodore [email protected]

Department of Public Works Sherleen Minnē Branch Manager [email protected]

East London Boating Ass. Andre Van Wyk Commodore [email protected]

East London Ski Boat Club Clive Bell Commodore [email protected]

East London Ski Boat Club Fred Dryer [email protected]

East London Yacht Club Bruce Muller Commodore [email protected]

East London Yacht Club Deon Mc Intyre Rear Commodore

[email protected]

East London Yacht Club Roy Crossley [email protected]

East London Yacht Club Colin Wilke [email protected]

East London Yacht Club Graham Wentworth

[email protected]

Sea Spirit Mark McArthur Owner [email protected]

NSRI Geoff McGregor Station Commander

[email protected]

Office at Latimer's Landing John Barry Owner [email protected]

A & F Freeshore Alfredo Naidoo Owner [email protected]

Corpclo 2605 cc t/a Footprints Lisinda Heathcote Owner [email protected]

Buffalo Rowing Club Linda Warner Marketing Liason [email protected]

SAPS Water Wing

[email protected]

BPSA Derick Zantsi Depot Manager [email protected]

Chevron (Pty) Ltd Lwandile Kuboni Terminal Manager

[email protected]

Engen Jama Mandla Depot Manager [email protected]

Engen Mandla Jama Act Depot Manager

[email protected]

Total S A Shane Scheel Depot Manager [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

























Vukani Petroleum Glenn De Villiers Director [email protected]

SA Maritime Safety Assoc Branch Manager [email protected]

Other

Organisation Name Responsibility Email

SAIAB Nicky James Estuarine Specialist [email protected]

SAIAB Paul Cowley Icthyologist [email protected]

NMMU Janine Adams Estuarine Specialist [email protected]

NMMU Meredith Fernandes Estuarine Specialist [email protected]

CSIR Susan Taljaard [email protected]










71

APPENDIX B: LEGISLATION NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION The South African Constitution South Africa's Constitution provides within its Bill of Rights that everyone has the right: to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being, and a) to have the environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations, through

reasonable legislature and other measures that: i. prevent pollution and ecological degradation;

ii. promote conservation; and iii. secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting

justifiable economic and social development National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) as amended The objective of NEMA is: To provide for co-operative environmental governance by establishing principles for decision-making on matters affecting the environment, institutions that will promote co-operative governance and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by organs of state. A key aspect of NEMA is that it provides a set of environmental management principles that apply throughout the Republic to the actions of all organs of state that may significantly affect the environment. Key principles include:

Development must be socially, environmentally and economically sustainable;

Environmental management must be integrated;

Equitable access to environmental resources, benefits and services to meet basic human needs and ensure human wellbeing must be pursued and special measures may be taken to ensure access thereto by categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination;

Participation of all interested and affected parties in environmental governance must be promoted;

Decisions must take into account the interests, needs and values of all interested and affected parties;

Community wellbeing and empowerment must be promoted through environmental education and awareness, and the sharing of knowledge and experience;

Decisions must be taken in an open and transparent manner, and access to information must be provided in accordance with the law; and

There must be intergovernmental coordination and harmonisation of policies, legislation and actions relating to the environment

Another key element of NEMA are the EIA regulations. National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (24 of 2008) (NEM: ICMA) The Integrated Coastal Management Act (ICMA) seeks to facilitate the implementation of the White Paper for Sustainable Coastal Development and to simplify the legislative framework regulating the use of coastal resources. The objectives of the Act are as follows:

Sets out a new and integrated approach to managing the nation’s coastal resources in order to promote social equity and to make best economic use of coastal resources, whilst protecting the natural environment. Specifically, the Act seeks to:

Provide a legal and administrative framework that will promote cooperative, coordinated and integrated coastal management;



Preserve, protect and enhance the status of the coastal environment as the heritage of all;

Ensure that coastal resources are managed in the interest of the whole community;

Ensure that there is equitable access to the opportunities and benefits derived from the coast; and

Give effect to South Africa’s international law obligations. The ICMA identifies various classes of precautionary zones in the coastal zone, including:

Coastal Access Land (s 13)

Composition of coastal protection zone (s 16)

Purpose of coastal protection zone (s 17)

Establishment of coastal set-back lines (s 25)

Duty to avoid causing adverse effects on coastal environment (s 58)

Implementation of land use legislation in coastal protection zone (s 62) The ICMA also covers issues relating to:

Estuaries and estuarine management plans for individual estuaries (s 34).

Institutional arrangements and the establishment of a: o Provincial Coastal Committees (s 39) o Municipal Coastal Committees (clause 42)

Coastal management and a system of coastal management programmes within each sphere of government

Protection of coastal resources

Marine and coastal pollution control and restrictions concerning the regulation of the disposal of effluent and waste into estuaries and the sea (s 69-73).

Figure 2.1: Definition of the Coastal Zone Marine Living Resources Act (18 of 1998) (MLRA) The MLRA is the chief statute dealing with conservation and management of marine living resources. The objects of MLRA are to provide for the:



Conservation of marine ecosystems,

Long-term sustainable utilization of marine living resources;

Orderly access to exploitation, utilization and protection of certain marine living resources; and

Exercise of control over marine living resource in a fair and equitable manner to the benefit of all citizens of South Africa.

National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (57 of 2003) (NEM:PAA) The Protected Areas Act mainly provides for the following:

Declaration of nature reserves and determination of the type of reserve declared;

Cooperative governance in the declaration and management of nature reserves;

A system of protected areas in order to manage and conserve biodiversity; and

Utilization and participation of local communities in the management of protected areas. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of 2004) – (NEM:BA) The Biodiversity Act mainly provides for the following:

Management and conservation of biological diversity;

Use of biological resource in a sustainable manner;

Equitable sharing of benefits arising from bio-prospecting; and

Cooperative governance in biodiversity management and conservation. National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (39 of 2004) – (NEM:AQA) The Air Quality Act has repealed the Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act 45 of 1965 (APPA), and therefore the Air Quality Act is the principal legislation regulating air quality. The objects of the Air Quality Act are to:

Give effect to section 24(b) of the Constitution in order to enhance the quality of ambient air for the sake of securing an environment that is not harmful to the health and well-being of people; and, o Protect the environment by providing reasonable measures for: o Protection and enhancement of the quality of air in the Republic; o Prevention of air pollution and ecological degradation; and

Securing ecologically sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social development.

National Water Act (36 of 1998) (NWA) The NWA replaces and repeals all previous legislation pertaining to water, and should be seen against the legislative background of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997. The NWA is concerned with the overall management, equitable allocation and conservation of water resources in South Africa. To this end, it requires registration of water users and licenses to be obtained for water use except for certain limited instances set out in the Act. These instances include domestic use, certain recreational use, where the use occurs in terms of an existing lawful use or where the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has issued a general authorisation that obviates the need for a permit. The Act further provides for the establishment of catchment management agencies for the integrated management of all aspects of water use in South Africa. National Forests Act (84 of 1998)

Documents

4.4.2. Fauna - CESNET River Estuary... · 4.4.2. Fauna Invertebrates Loss of, ... turn species and seagull species. The transformed nature of the estuary mouth provides a sheltered