1

PRELIMINARY ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

DELMAS NORTH SUBSTATION PROJECT;

NORTH WESTERN REGION,

ESKOM DISTRIBUTION DIVISION

Compiled for: Royal HaskoningDHV

BY:

Mr C.L.COOK Pr.Nat.Sci 400084/08 (MSc. Zool. U.P)

Ecological Consultant: Specialist Herpetological Consultant

Cell No. 082 688 9585

Giant. Bullfrog@Gmail.com

SUBMITTED: APRIL 2014

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1. Background Information

Eskom Transmission is responsible for providing a high quality supply of

electricity to meet the ever increasing needs of its end users. As a result, its

infrastructure of power lines and substations are continuingly being

established and expanded upon to support annual load growth.

Delmas Municipal Council applied in March 2006 for a bulk supply of

electricity due to enlargement by one of the industrial customers as well as

increasing developments in the distribution license area. Eskom is planning

to build a complete 44/11kV1 x 20MVA substation at one of the two

alternative sites selected in the Delmas area (henceforth called the Demas

North Substation Site). The project will also involve the construction of

approximately a 5km single circuit lines (loop-in-configuration) from the

existing DS-SAR Dryden 44kV lines towards the new Delmas North

Substation (see figure 1 below for locality of the proposed line).

Eskom Holdings Limited has, in line with the EIA Regulations, appointed

Royal HaskoningDHV (RHDHV) as the independent consultant to undertake

the EIA for the proposed Delmas North Substation and loop-in-line located in

Delmas in the Mpumalanga Province. Royal HaskoningDHV (RHDHV) has

appointed Mr C.L. Cook to investigate the potential biophysical related

impacts associated with the construction of the Delmas North Substation as

well as the proposed ±5km circuit line.

It must be stressed that due to time as well as financial constraints no

comprehensive vegetation or faunal surveys were conducted; but merely a

brief assessment of the current ecological status of the proposed substation

sites as well as loop-in-alignments. By surveying the actual site as well as

immediate habitats adjacent to the proposed site for specialised habitats, as

well as the remaining vegetation and specific habitats, one can make an

assumption of the possible presence or absence of threatened plant and

animal species. The survey was supplemented by literature investigations;

personal records, historic data and previous surveys conducted in the

Delmas-Nigel areas as well as in similar habitats from 1999-2014.

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The purpose of this document is to highlight potential impacts on the

biodiversity of the project from a potential faunal and vegetation perspective.

Special emphasis was placed on the potential occurrence of Red Listed/Data

plant and animal species likely to occur in the areas of the proposed

alternative substation sites as well as the 5km loop-in-line.

1.1 Objectives of the initial ecological survey/ habitat

assessment

• To provide a description of the vegetation as well as threatened

mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians occurring or likely to occur

on the proposed sub-station site as well as along the circuit line

alignments.

• To describe the available habitats on site including areas of important

conservation value or areas most likely to form important habitat for

remaining threatened species on or around the proposed sub-station

sites as well as along the circuit line alignments.

1.2 Scope of study

• A preliminary ecological survey with special emphasis on the current

status of threatened plant and animal species (Red Data Species),

within the proposed substation sites as well as along the circuit line

alignments.

• An assessment of the ecological habitats, evaluating conservation

importance and significance with special emphasis on the current

status of threatened animal species (Red Data Species), within the

proposed substation sites as well as along the circuit line alignments.

Identification of potential ecological impacts that could occur as a

result of the Delmas substation and circuit line and assess the

significance of these, where possible.

• Investigate feasible and practical management recommendations that

should be implemented to reduce or minimize the impacts, should the

project be approved

• Documentation of the findings of the study in a report.

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Figure1. Locality map of proposed Delmas North Substation sites as well as

circuit alignments.

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2. METHODOLOGY

2.1 Predictive methods

A 1:50 000 map of the study area was provided showing existing

infrastructure and the proposed alignments. This was used as far as

possible in order to identify potential “hot-spots” along the corridors, e.g.

Patches of undisturbed grassland vegetation, river crossings, palustrine

wetlands (valley bottoms, pans/depressions and hillslope seeps), dams

and agricultural areas. Satellite imagery of the area was obtained from

Google Earth was studied in order to get a three dimensional impression

of the topography and land use.

2.2 Literature Survey

A detailed literature search was undertaken to assess the current status of

threatened fauna that have been historically known to occur in the study

area for the 2628 BA quarter degree grid cell (or 1: 50 000 map unit),

within which the alignments are located. The literature search was

undertaken utilising The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and

Swaziland (Mucina & Rutherford 2006) for the vegetation description as

well as National Red List of Threatened Plants of South Africa (Raimondo

et al, 2009) as well as internet using POSA (http://posa.sanbi.org

accessed on the 31st March 2014). The Mammals of the Southern African

Subregion (Skinner & Chimimba 2005) and The Red Data Book of the

Mammals of South Africa: A Conservation Assessment (Friedmann and

Daly (editors) 2004) as well as ADU’s MammalMap

(http://vmus.adu.org.za/vm_sp_list.php accessed on the 31st of March

2014) for mammals. Hockey, P.A.R., Dean, W.R.J., Ryan, P.G. (eds).

2005. Roberts- Birds of Southern Africa VIIth ed. And BARNES, K.N. (ed.)

(2000) The Escom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and

Swaziland for avifauna (birds) as well as internet SABAP2 pentad 2420-

3055 (http://sabap2.adu.org.za accessed on the 31st March 2014). The

Atlas and Red Data Book of the frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and

Swaziland (Minter et al. 2004) for amphibians as well as SAFAP FrogMap

(http://vmus.adu.org.za accessed on the 31st March 2014) The Field

Guide to the Snakes and other Reptiles of Southern Africa (Branch 2001)

and South African Red Data Book-Reptiles and Amphibians (Branch 1988)

as well as SARCA (http://sarca.adu.org.za accessed on the 31st March

2014) for reptiles..

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2.3 Site Investigation Methodology

A preliminary assessment of the status, spatial requirements and habitat

preferences of all priority species around the proposed substation site as

well as along the proposed circuit line as well as potential threats to

adjacent sensitive habitats was conducted. For certain species, an

estimate of the expected or historical distribution for the area could be

extrapolated from published information and unpublished reports, while

habitat and spatial requirements were generally derived from the

literature. For other species, little of this information was readily available

and conservation targets remain speculative. Species assessments will be

updated when additional data becomes available and where appropriate,

proposed conservation targets will be revised.

Three general habitat sensitivity scans were carried out on the 14th of

March 2009; 14th of April 2009 and the 21st March 2014. . These site visits

did not entail intensive surveying or utilisation of any sampling methods

and can rather be viewed as being an opportunity to identify sensitive

habitats at the proposed Delmas substation as well as along the circuit

line alignment.

2.4 Uncertainties in predicting results

• Limitation to a base-line ecological survey for only 3 days (20

hours) during the late summer months (March-April).

• No comprehensive vegetation or faunal surveys were conducted

but merely a preliminary ecological assessment.

• The majority of threatened plant and animal species are

seasonal only emerging after sufficient early heavy summer

rainfalls between October and December.

• The majority of threatened faunal species are extremely

secretive and difficult to observe even during intensive field

surveys conducted over several years.

• The presence of threatened species on site is assessed mainly

on habitat availability and suitability as well as desk research

(literature, personal records and previous surveys conducted in

similar habitats between1999-2014).

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2.5 Gaps in the baseline data

• Little long-term, verified data of faunal species distribution on

micro-habitat level along the proposed powerline alignment.

• Little long-term, verified data on impacts of existing lines (bird-

collisions etc.) in the study area on fauna.

3. DESCRIPTION OF THE AFFECTED

ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Vegetation and Faunal habitat Availability

Vegetation structure is generally accepted to be more critical in

determining faunal habitat than actual plant composition. Therefore, the

description of vegetation presented in this study concentrates on factors

relevant to faunal species abundance and distribution, and does not give

an exhaustive list of plant species which occur in the study area.

The study area falls within the 2628 BA quarter degree grid cells.

Vegetation composition in the area consists of a transitional zone between

Eastern Highveld Grassland (Gm 12) as well as Rand Highveld

Grassland (Gm 11) (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). The majority of the line

and the proposed substation sites are situated within the Eastern

Highveld (Gm 12) vegetation unit with a section of alternative 2 and 3

alignments bisecting highly degraded Rand Highveld Grassland (Gm

11) previously classified as Bankenveld (Acocks 1988) or Rocky

Highveld Grassland (45%), Sandy Highveld Grassland (LR 38) (Low

& Rebelo 1995).

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Figure2. Vegetation units of proposed Delmas North Substation and

circuit line.

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3.2 Eastern Highveld Grassland (Gm 12)

Vegetation & Landscape Features:

Characterised by short dense grass dominated by the usual highveld grass

composition (Aristidia, Digitaria, Eragrostis, Themeda, Tristachya etc) with

small rocky outcrops with wiry, sour grasses and some woody species

(Acacia caffra, Celtis africana, Diospyros lycioides subs lyciodes, Parina

capensis, Protea caffra, P. welwithchii and Searsia magaliesmontanum)

(Mucina & Rutherford 2006).

Distribution: Eastern Highveld Grassland (Gm 12) is distributed in

Mpumalanga and Gauteng Province on the plains between Belfast in the

east and the eastern side of Johannesburg in the west and extending

southwards to Bethal, Ermelo and west of Piet Retief (Mucina & Rutherford

2006).

.

Geology and Soils: Eastern Highveld Grassland or Sour grassland

generally occurs in high rainfall areas on leached soils. The predominant

rock types are shales and sandstones of the Vryheid and Volksrust

Formations (Ecca Group, Karoo Sequence), giving rise to deep, red to

yellow, sandy soils (Mucina & Rutherford 2006).

.

Climate: Strongly seasonal summer-rainfall region, warm temperatures

with very dry winters. Mean annual precipitation ranges between 650-900

mm (overall MAP 726 mm) and relatively uniform across most of this unit,

but increases significantly in the extreme southeast. The incidence of frost

is from 13-42 days but higher at higher elevations (Mucina & Rutherford

2006).

Conservation:

Eastern Highveld grasslands are considered to be Endangered and are

very suitable for crop production, with the natural vegetation heavily used

for grazing of sheep and cattle. Approximately 44% has been transformed

by cultivation, plantations, mines, urbanization and by the building of

dams. The conservation status of this vegetation type is very poor. Moist

Sandy Highveld Grassland is now largely ploughed, with natural

vegetation restricted to patchy remnants, which are often heavily grazed.

The Nooitgedacht Dam Nature Reserve is the only official conservation

area of this vegetation type, but the Ermelo Game Park represents a good

example of this vegetation type (Bredenkamp & van Rooyen, 1996).

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Vegetation

Type

Eastern Highveld Grassland

(Gm 12)

Tree cover

0 %

Soil Light brown sandy soils as

well as sandy-loams

Shrub cover 0 %

Topography Undulating Plain Herb cover

(weedy

pioneers)

0-10 %

Land use Road & powerline

servitudes (Illegal dumping

activities)

Grass cover 0-90 %

Dominant

Grasses

Hyparrhenia hirta, Setaria sphacelata, Erogrostis curvula,

Setaria sphacelata, Melinis repens, Aristida congesta,

Heteropogon contortus, Cynodon dactylon and

Hyperthelia dissoluta

Dominant

Herb

Species

Hypoxis acuminata, Ledebouria ovatifolia

Alien

Invasive

Species

Argemone ochroleuca subsp. ochroleuca*, Solanum

sisymbrifolium*, Datura stramonium*, Robinia

pseudoacaia*, Ipomoea purpurea*, Lantana camara*,

Ricinus communis*, Solanum mauritianum*

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Figure3. A collage of photographs displaying the transformed

Eastern Highveld grasslands observed within the proposed

substation sites and circuit alignments A: The proposed substation

alternative site 1 is situated within a completely transformed and

degraded vegetation unit and have been heavily impacted on by adjacent

informal settlements. Extensive illegal dumping activities occur adjacent

to the informal access road. B: The alternative 2 substation site is situated

within transformed Hyparrhernia hirta grasslands. C & D: The proposed

circuit alignments follow an existing access road as well as existing

powerline and sewerage alignments dominated by completely transformed

vegetation and habitats.

The grasslands have been impacted on by anthropomorphic activities

during previous agricultural activities as well as current human activities.

Large areas of the proposed development area consists of homogenous

transformed old agricultural/fallow lands dominated by the

anthropomorphic grass Hyparrhenia hirta as well as several weedy plant

species such as Zinnia peruviana, Mirabilis jalapa, Tagetes minuta, Bidens

pilosa, Cosmos bipinnatus, Conyza albida as well as the secondary

succession grass Eragrostis curvula, E. chloromelas and Cynodon

dactylon.

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3.3 Rand Highveld Grassland (Gm 11)

Vegetation & Landscape Features:

Highly variable landscapes with extensive sloping plains and series of

ridges slightly elevated over undulating surrounding plains. The vegetation

is species-rich, wiry, sour grassland alternating with low, sour shrubland

on rocky outcrops and steeper slopes. Most common grasses on the plains

belong to the genera Themeda, Eragrostis, Heteropogon and Elionurus.

High diversity of herbs, many of which belong to the Asteraceae, is also a

typical feature (Mucina & Rutherford 2006).

Distribution: Gauteng, North-West, Free State and Mpumalnaga

Provinces. In areas between rocky ridges from Pretoria to Witbank,

extending onto ridges in the Stoffberg and Roosenekal regions as well as

Krugersdorp centered in the vicinity of Derby and Potchestroom,

extending southwards and north-eastwards from there (Mucina &

Rutherford 2006)..

Geology and Soils: Rand Highveld Grassland occurs on the Quartzite

ridges of the Witwatersrand Supergroup and the Pretoria Groups as well

as the Selons River Formation of the Rooiberg Group, supporting soils of

various quality (shallow Glenrosa and Mispah forms especially on rocky

ridges), typical Ba, Bc, Bd and lb land types.

Climate: Strongly seasonal summer-rainfall region, warm temperatures

with very dry winters. Mean annual precipitation (MAP 654 mm). The

incidence of frost is higher in the west (30-40 days) than in the east (10-

35 days). Temperatures vary between 0°C and 30°C, with an average of

15.8°C.

Conservation: Rand Highveld grasslands are considered to be

Endangered. The conservation target is 24%. Only 1 % is statutorily

conserved (Kweaggavoetpad, Van Riebeeck Park, Bronkhorstspruit,

Boskop Dam Nature Reserve) and in private conservation areas

(Doornkop, Zemvelo, Rhenosterpoort and Mpopomeni). Almost half has

been transformed mostly by cultivation, plantations, urbanisation or dam

building. Cultivation may also have had an impact on additional portion of

the surface area of the unit where old lands are currently classified as

grasslands in land-cover classifications and poor land management has led

to degradation of significant portions of the remainder of this unit (D.

Hoare, personal observations).

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Vegetation

Type

Rand Highveld Grassland

(Gm 11)

Tree cover

0 %

Soil Light brown sandy soils as

well as sandy-loams

Shrub

cover

0 %

Topography Low lying quartzite ridge Herb

cover

0-10 %

Land use Vacant (cattle grazing) Grass

cover

0-80 %

Dominant

Grasses

Hyparrhenia hirta, Setaria sphacelata, Erogrostis curvula,

Melinis repens, Aristida congesta, Heteropogon contortus,

Cynodon dactylon and Hyperthelia dissoluta

Dominant

Herb

Species

Babiana hypogea var. hypogea, Hypoxis rigidula,

Ledebouria ovatifolia, Ledebouria revolute, Trifolium

africanum var. africanum, Seriphium plumosum,

Pseudognaphalium luteo-album*

Alien

Invasive

Species

Agave americana*, Argemone ochroleuca subsp.

ochroleuca*, Solanum sisymbrifolium*, Campuloclinium

macrocephalum*, Ricinus communis*, Solanum

mauritianum*, Cirsium vulgare∗, Pennisetum

clandestinum*

∗ alien invasive vegetation

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Figure4. A collage of photographs displaying the transformed and

degraded Rand Highveld grasslands observed within the proposed

substation sites and circuit alignments A: The proposed circuit

alignment is situated within transformed and degraded grassland

vegetation units and have been heavily impacted on by adjacent informal

settlements. B: A patch of quartzite extrusions or ridge occurs on a low-

lying ridge adjacent to the channelled valley bottom. C: The entire area

has been heavily impacted on by extensive overgrazing by cattle and

goats hence the dominance of the dwarf shrublet Bankrupt Bush

Seriphium plumosum/Stoebe vulgaris, harvesting of traditional medicinal

plants and grasses as well as altered fire regimes (more frequent fires).

D: Several alien invasive plant species including Kikuyu Pennisetum

clandestinum*, Pom-Pom Weed Campuloclinium macrocephalum* and

Sisal Agave americana* were observed along the proposed alignments.

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3.4 RED LISTED PLANT SPECIES CONCLUSION

From a faunal and vegetation perspective both the proposed substation

sites are situated within transformed habitats and vegetation units. The

alternative 1 is the slightly preferred option as the alternative 2 site is

situated adjacent to a degraded seepage wetland. Both are however

situated in transformed grassland habitats with low sensitivity and low

conservation potential.

Remnant patches of degraded Rand Highveld Grassland occur around the

rocky hills adjacent to a channelled valley bottom as well as areas to the

north of the proposed line. The vegetation has been heavily impacted on

by overgrazing of livestock, frequent fires, harvesting of traditional

medicinal plants and alien vegetation invasion. The majority of Eastern

Highveld Grassland along and surrounding the alignments has been

completely transformed due to the large informal settlements and high

levels of human disturbances, previous and current agricultural activities

in the area and are dominated by weedy ruderals and pioneer species

such as Redstar Zinnia Zinnia peruviana*, Common Thorn Apple Datura

stramonium*, Black Jacks (Bidens pilosa), Khaki Bush (Tagetes minuta)

and Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus). The secondary succession grasslands

are severely degraded due extensive overgrazing, frequent fires,

harvesting of medicinal plants as well as invasion by alien plant and tree

species. The majority of tree species found along the alignments are

exotics as well as alien invasive species such as Eucalyptus sp., Acacia

mearnsii, Robinia pseudoacacia. Patches of secondary grasslands (old

agricultural lands) are situated along the proposed alignments. Alternative

1 and 2 run parallel to the degraded channelled valley bottom which is

dominated by hydrophilic grasses and sedges as well as pioneer weedy

plant species.

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Table1. Red listed plant species recorded from the 2628 BA Quarter

Degree Grid Cell (SANBI, POSA Website http://posa.sanbi.org

downloaded on the 9th of April 2014)

FAMILY SPECIES STATUS HABITAT PROBABILITY

OF OCCURRENCE

AMARYLLIDACEAE Crinum

bulbispermum

Declining

Near rivers,

streams,

seasonal

pans and in

damp

depressions.

Low

APOCYNACEAE Stenostelma

umbelluliferum

Near

Threatened

Deep black

turf in open

woodland

mainly in

the vicinity

of drainage

lines.

Pretoria into

North-West

Province.

None

ASPHODELACEAE Kniphofia

typhoides

Near

Threatened

Low lying

wetlands

and

seasonally

wet areas in

climax

Themeda

triandra

grasslands

on heavy

black clay

soils, tends

to disappear

from

degraded

grasslands.

Low

ASPHODELACEAE Trachyandra

erythrorrhiza

Black turf

marshes

Low

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ASTERACEAE Cineraria

longipes

Vulnerable Grassland,

amongst

rocks and

along

seepage

lines,

exclusively

on basalt

koppies on

south-facing

slopes.

None

MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Lithops lesliei Near

Threatened

Primarily in

arid

grasslands,

usually in

rocky

places,

growing

under the

protection

of forbs and

grasses.

Low

ORCHIDACEAE Habenaria

bicolor

Near

Threatened

Well-

drained

grasslands

at around

1600 m in

South

Africa.

Low

Extremely limited suitable habitat remains for any threatened red data

plant species due to the high levels of habitat degradation on and

surrounding the site. The channelled valley bottom wetland is heavily

degraded due to uncontrolled cattle grazing and trampling, invasion of

kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum* as well as extreme habitat degradation

due to raw sewerage entering system through bulk sewer line. No red

listed plant species were observed within the proposed alignments or

significant population are likely to occur around the site due to high levels

of anthropogenic disturbances from the adjacent informal settlements.

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4. PRELIMINARY FAUNAL HABITAT ASSESSMENT

No comprehensive faunal surveys were conducted and species lists

provided in the Appendix are of species most likely to occur on the site

using habitat as an indicator of species presence.

The following micro-habitats were identified in the study area during the

field investigation:

4.1 Open Grassland

Figure5. A collage of photographs displaying the current impacts

on the site and surrounding grassland include: A: Transformation

and degradation of grasslands through previous and current agricultural

activities; B: Several informal roads and human pathways bisect the open

grasslands resulting in increased human disturbances; C: A large informal

settlement occurs adjacent to the channelled valley bottom wetland, D:

Remnant patch of low-lying quartzite rocky outcrops occur to the north

and east of circuit line alignments. The frequent burning of the site results

in alteration of vegetation as well as impacting on remaining animal

species especially reptiles and smaller mammal species.

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The grasslands occurring along the alignment have been impacted on

by:

� Informal settlements occur around the site

� Previous and current agricultural activities (oldlands) have

transformed the majority of grassland habitat on site.

� Extensive overgrazing by cattle has resulted in the dominance of

the dwarf shrub (Stoebe vulgaris/ Seriphium plumosum).

� Sand harvesting and borrow pits.

� Eskom power-lines and servitudes bisect the grasslands.

� Numerous paths and an informal roads transverse the grasslands.

� Extensive littering occurs on the site especially adjacent to the

informal settlement.

� Extensive dumping of solid and organic waste throughout the site.

� Frequent burning of remaining grasslands

� Evidence of hunting (shot gun cartridges) and poaching (wire

snares) as well as hunting with dogs.

� Removal of majority of medicinal plant species (bulbous

geophytes); thatch harvesting, wood harvesting and collecting.

� Introduction of exotic and alien vegetation.

The remaining primary grasslands within the study area represent

important habitat for a variety of grassland dependant Red Data species

and should be considered as a sensitive habitat with high conservation

potential. The majority of the proposed circuit alignments follow informal

roads as well as transformed grasslands with minimal disturbances to

remaining open grasslands. Line Option 1 and 2 bisect larger portions of

the channelled valley bottom wetland. Line Option 3 bisects approximately

150m section of low lying quartzite rocky outcrops.

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4.2 Wetlands including Channelled Valley bottom and artificially

created dams.

Figure6. The proposed circuit alignments run parallel to and bisect a

channelled valley bottom wetland. The proposed alignment 1 and 2 bisect

large portions of the channelled valley bottom wetland and adjacent

seasonally inundated seepage wetlands. Option 3 is situated outside the

channelled valley and follows exiting access road across the valley bottom

and degraded seepage wetland areas. The proposed pylons as well as

access or maintenance road must be placed outside the temporary wet

zone of the channelled valley bottom wetland and seepage wetlands.

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Figure7. Recent observations (March 2014) of the channelled

valley bottom wetland. A: The channelled valley bottom has become

severely degraded due to continual pollution of raw or untreated sewerage

which enters into the system from a burst bulk sewer line situated within

the seasonal wet zones. B: Uncontrolled livestock drinking of the polluted

water as well as grazing and trampling within the seepage areas. C: Large

sections of the valley bottom have been invaded by kikuyu (Pennisetum

clandestinum*). D: Extensive illegal dumping activities within the valley

bottom wetland.

The valley bottom and associated riparian zone, of which grassland

vegetation is a major component, has a number of important functions

including:

• enhancing water quality in the river by the interception and

breakdown of pollutants;

• interception and deposition of nutrients and sediments;

• stabilisation of riverbanks and macro-channel floor;

• flood attenuation;

• provision of habitat and migration routes for fauna and flora;

• provision of fuels, building materials and medicines for communities

(if done on a sustainable basis); and

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• recreational areas (fishing - rod and line not shade or gill nets; bird

watching; picnic areas etc.).

Wetlands are characterized by hydric/hydromorphic soils and slow flowing

water and tall emergent vegetation, and provide habitat for many faunal

species including African Grass Owl. The conservation status of many of

the faunal species that are dependant on wetlands reflects the critical

status of wetland nationally, with many having already been destroyed. In

this study area wetlands, including seasonal dams offer the most suitable

habitats for species such as African Grass Owls; Giant Bullfrogs, Rough-

haired Golden Mole, Marsh Sylph which may possibly occur in the area.

The high levels of human disturbances associated with the informal

settlement along the valley bottom; significantly reduces the likelihood of

any African Grass Owls or Giant Bullfrogs occurring along the alignment or

remaining in the palustrine wetland system.

All remaining wetlands (permanent and seasonal) and their associated

indigenous grassland and sedge dominated vegetation must be considered

as sensitive habitats and of high conservation value. Indigenous

marshland vegetation such as that found adjacent to the proposed

alignment comprises a habitat which is restricted in extent, highly

productive and which contains a high diversity of plants and animals,

many of which are restricted or heavily dependant on such habitats.

Several mammal species including Vlei Rats, Cape Clawless Otter and

Marsh Mongoose may possibly occur along the valley bottom and

artificially created dams. The high levels of human disturbances as well as

hunting with dogs and snares will heavily impact on remaining mammal

species along the valley bottom. Waterbirds, which were formerly

restricted to high rainfall areas with natural wetland habitat, make use of

man-made dams, and surrounding areas, for feeding, roosting and

breeding. Certain amphibian species will utilize the shallow margins of the

dam for breeding purposes including Guttural Toad, Common River Frog,

Common Caco, Bubbling Kassina. Common Platanna will be found in

permanent waterbodies along the alignment. Reptile species such as the

Brown water Snake, Water Monitor are associated with wetland habitats

including permanent dams. Low amphibian diversity is expected due to

the continual deterioration of water quality due to raw sewerage

constantly entering into the system.

23

More comprehensive surveys must be conducted if the alternatives 1 and

2 alignment are considered especially pertaining to the position of towers

bisecting the valley bottom wetlands as well as potential collision of

avifauna (birds). This will include recommendations on the installation of

anti-collision devices along the section of line adjacent to the valley

bottom as well as alignments bisecting the valley bottom.

4.3 Quartzite Ridge

Figure8. The proposed alignment 3 runs adjacent to a quartzite

rocky outcrop or extrusion. The rocky ridge has been severely

degraded due to the high levels of anthropogenic disturbances. The

proposed alignment should be restricted to the degraded and overgrazed

grasslands on the mid slopes in order to prevent further disturbances to

the lower lying more extensive quartzite outcrops. Rocky outcrops provide

critical habitat for numerous rupicolous (living on or amongst rock) faunal

species including smaller mammals and reptiles.

24

The small rocky hill offers favourable habitat for several rupicolous (living

on or amongst rocks) animal species. A wide variety of bird groups utilise

ridges, koppies and hills for feeding, roosting and breeding. These groups

include several Spotted and Water Thick-Knees, Blacksmith and Crowned

Lapwings as well as a Northern Black Korhaan. Ridges provide important

habitats for certain rupicolous mammals such as the eastern rock elephant

shrew. The quartzite rocky outcrops must be considered as a sensitive

habitat with medium-high conservation value in a local scale.

4.4 Exotic trees

Figure8. Large areas surrounding the proposed alignments are heavily

invaded by Saligna Gum (Eucalyptus grandis) as well as Black Wattle

(Acacia mearnsii).

Significant patches of Black Wattle and Eucalyptus trees were observed in

the study area, particularly near human settlements as well as agricultural

lands. Whilst in general exotic vegetation has little value for most faunal

species, in this study area, the lack of other trees means that these

stands may be used by some faunal species such as Common Duiker,

Porcupine as refuge habitat.

25

4.5 Agricultural lands

Figure9. Large monoculture agricultural lands occur adjacent to the

existing 44kV line which the circuit line connects with.

Arable or cultivated land represents a significant feeding area for certain

rodent species such as Highveld Gerbil and Multimammate Mouse through

the tilling opening up the soil surface, land preparation makes many

insects, seeds, bulbs and other food sources are suddenly accessible.

Maize lands are dominated by seed eating birds such as Laughing Dove,

Cape Turtle Dove as well as Helmeted Guineafowls. Rodents construct

burrows in the sandy soils and attract other predators such as the slender

mongoose.

26

5. RESULTS OF THE INITIAL FAUNAL SURVEY OR

HABITAT ASSESSMENT

5.1 MAMMALS

No small mammal trapping was conducted. Fieldwork was augmented

with previous surveys in similar habitats as well as published data. The

area was initially traversed on foot to ascertain the presence of available

refuges. Refuges such as burrows, refuge piles, overgrazed and rank

grasslands were surveyed.

Table2. Mammal species recorded during field survey. Identification

was determined by visual observations, trapping and animal tracks

(footprints and droppings).

COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

Scrub Hare Lepus saxtalis

Common Molerat Cryptomys hottentotus

Highveld Gerbil Tatera brantsii

Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata

Slender Mongoose Galerella sanguinea

*House mouse Mus musculus

*House Rat Rattus rattus

*Domestic Dog Canis familiaris

*Feral Cat Felis catus

* introduced species

Threatened species

No sensitive or endangered mammals were recorded within the study area

or are likely to occur along the proposed alignment 1 or substation sites.

The proposed alternatives 1 and 2 run parallel and bisect the channelled

valley bottom which could potentially impact on the remaining (albeit

limited) wetland associated mammals. The majority of larger mammal

species are likely to have been eradicated or have moved away from the

area, as a result of habitat alteration and degradation as well as illegal

hunting and poaching. The sandy soils of the previously ploughed fallow

lands offers habitat for burrowing rodents such as the Highveld Gerbil. All

trees on the site are exotic and mainly invasive (Eucalyptus and Black

27

Wattle) and limited termite mounds were observed (due to previous

agricultural activities). Hunting with dogs was noted during the site visits.

Smaller mammal species are extremely vulnerable to snares and poaching

activities as well as feral cats and dogs. According to the “South African

Red Data Book of Terrestrial Mammals” (Smithers 1986) and Skinner and

Chimimba (2005), the study area falls within the distribution ranges of 12

species which are placed into one of known threatened species

(Endangered, Vulnerable and Rare). Due to the high level of human

activity (squatter camps) within the study area as well as the previous

agricultural activities it is however unlikely that the study area comprises

significant habitat for any species of threatened mammals. Several people

live in informal housing on or surrounding the site. Illegal hunting with

dogs and feral cats will lead to the disappearance of the majority of

mammals in the area. Suitable habitat occurs along the valley bottom for

Vlei Rats and Marsh/Water Mongoose.

5.2 AVIFAUNAL (BIRD) SURVEY

During the site visitation (total of 10 hrs), 32 bird species were recorded.

Species recorded during field survey are common, widespread and typical

of a disturbed grassland environment as well as wetland system. One

hundred and twenty five (125) species have been recorded for the

2605_2840 pentad in which the substation and powerline are situated. No

threatened birds were recorded during the survey or are likely to occur at

the proposed substation sites.

28

Table2: Bird species recorded during brief field survey (10hrs);

introduced species are in bold.

Roberts’

Number

Common name

Scientific Name

71 Cattle Egret Bulbulcus ibis

94 Hadeda Ibis Bostrychia hagedash

127 Blackshouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus

199 Swainson’s Francolin Francolinus swainsonii

200 Common Quail

Coturnix coturnix

203 Helmeted Guineafowl

Numida meleagris

Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afroides

255 Crowned Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus coronatus

258 Blacksmith Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus armatus

297 Spotted Dikkop Burhinus capensis

352 Redeyed Dove Stretopelia semitorquata

354 Cape Turtle Dove Streptopelia capicola

355 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis

391A Burchell’s Coucal Centropus burchellii

415 Whiterumped Swift Apus caffer

417 Little Swift Apus melba

424 Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus

451 Hoopoe Upupa epops

452 Redbilled Woodhoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus

464 Blackcollared Barbet Lybius torquatus

473 Crested Barbet Tracchyphonus vailantii

483 Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens

494 Rufousnaped Lark Mirafra africana

507 Redcapped Lark Calandrella cinerea

518 European Swallow Hirundo rustica

526 Greater Striped Swallow Hirundo cucullata

527 Lesser Striped Swallow Hirundo abyssinica

548 Pied Crow Corvus albus

29

568 Dark-capped (Black-eyed)

Bulbul

Pycnonotus barbatus

577 Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus

596 Stonechat Saxicola torquata

601 Cape Robin Cossypha caffra

645 Barthroated Apalis Apalis thoracica

664 Fantailed Cisticola Cisticola juncidis

672 Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana

683 Tawnyflanked Prinia Prinia subflava

701 Chinspot Batis Batis molitor

716 Grassveld Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus

727 Cape or Orange-throated

Longclaw

Macronyx capensis

732 Fiscal Shrike Lanius collaris

758 *Indian Myna Acridothermes tristis

787 Whitebellied Sunbird Nectarinia talatala

796 Cape White-Eye Zosterops pallidus

801 *House Sparrow Passer domesticus

814 Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus

815 Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius

824 Red Bishop Euplectes orix

860 Pintailed Whydah Vidua macroura

869 Yelloweyed Canary Serinus mozambicus

30

SENSITIVE OR ENDANGERED SPECIES

Table4. List of threatened and near-threatened bird species that occur in

the proposed 2605-2840 pentad and that could occur at or near proposed

site according to Barnes (2000).

Species Conservatio

n status (Barnes

2000)

Reporting

rate SABAP2

%

Habitat

requirements (Barnes

2000; Hockey et al 2005; Harrison et al

1997; personal

observations)

Probability of

Occurrence

Greater

Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber

Near

threatened

11.1 Endorheic

pans, saltworks, sewerage

works and large

impoundments

Medium-Low

Black-winged

Pratincole Glareola nordmanni

Near

threatened

11.1 Attracted to

agricultural lands which are regularly

ploughed

Medium-High

African Grass-

Owl Tyto capensis

Vulnerable

- Normally

associated with pristine, well

managed grasslands usually in close

proximity of water, but also

in alien vegetation structurally

resembling tall or rank

grassland, and hydrophilic sedges.

Medium-Low

Limited rank hydrophilic grass and sedge vegetation occurs along the

valley bottom. Trampling by cattle as well as high levels of human

disturbances limits the section of the valley bottom for African Grass Owls

as well as Grater Flamingo. The valley bottom wetland habitat on the site

is heavily impacted on by surrounding informal settlement. Limited

suitable habitat occurs on the site and surrounding areas for any of the

31

above-mentioned threatened bird species. The majority of species would

have disappeared during the previous agricultural activities on and

surrounding the site and surrounding areas. The large informal settlement

adjacent to the valley bottom and transformation and degradation of

surrounding grassland areas severely restricts the remaining bird

populations due to habitat destruction as well as increased disturbances

(catapults, hunting etc). The low lying quartzite ridge could potentially

offer suitable foraging and exploratory habitat for the nomadic Black-

winged Pratincole.

5.3 AMPHIBIANS

No actual survey was undertaken due to incorrect time of the year for a

herpetological survey. The majority of species in Mpumalanga Province

are classified as explosive breeders completing their short duration

reproductive cycle in the early summer months between (November-

January). These frog species only emerge after the first heavy summer

rainfalls and are dormant during the cold winter months. Explosive

breeding frogs utilise ephemeral pans or inundated grasslands for their

short duration reproductive cycles.

As the survey was undertaken for 2 days (no nocturnal surveys) during

the late summer months (March-April) only a few species of amphibians

were active. Four frog species were recorded namely Striped Stream Frog

(Strongylopus fasciatus) Common Plattana (Xenopus laevis), Guttural

Toad (Amietophrynus (Bufo) gutturalis) and Common River Frog (Amietia

angolensis). Comprehensive herpetological surveys can only be

undertaken throughout the duration of the wet season (November-March).

It is only during this period that accurate frog lists can be compiled.

32

Figure10. A conglomerate of photographs displaying frog species

likely to occur on the site. A: Common Caco (Cacosternum boettgeri)

breeds in shallow seasonally inundated grassland such as adjacent to the

valley bottom wetland. B: The Guttural Toad (Amietophrynus gutturalis) is

an urban exploiter and breeds in various man made habitats as well as

degraded wetlands. C: Tremelo Sand Frog (Tompoterna cryptotis) will

breed in seasonal roadside pools. D: Bubbling Kassina (Kassina

senegalensis) breed in seasonally inundated habitats. The ongoing

pollution by untreated sewerage entering the valley bottom wetland from

the outfall sewer line is an immediate threat to remaining frog species.

33

Table5. Frog species recorded for locus = 2628AC according to SAFAP.

Family Genus Species Common

name

Red list

category

Atlas

region

endemic

Bufonidae Amietophrynus garmani Olive

Toad

Least

Concern

-

Bufonidae Amietophrynus gutturalis Guttural

Toad

Least

Concern

-

Bufonidae Amietophrynus rangeri Raucous

Toad

Least

Concern

-

Bufonidae Schismaderma carens Red Toad Least

Concern

-

Hyperoliidae Kassina senegalensis Bubbling

Kassina

Least

Concern

-

Pipidae Xenopus laevis Common

Platanna

Least

Concern

-

Pyxicephalidae Amietia angolensis Common

or Angola

River

Frog

Least

Concern

-

Pyxicephalidae Amietia fuscigula Cape

River

Frog

Least

Concern

-

Pyxicephalidae Cacosternum boettgeri Common

Caco

Least

Concern

-

Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna cryptotis Tremelo

Sand

Frog

Least

Concern

-

Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna natalensis Natal

Sand

Frog

Least

Concern

-

34

HABITAT AVAILABLE FOR SENSITIVE OR ENDANGERED SPECIES

Figure11. Giant Bullfrogs (Pyxicephalus adspersus) have been recorded

from sites to the south of Delmas in the Nigel area.

Giant Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus)

The Giant Bullfrog is currently assigned as a near-threatened species

(IUCN Red List category). Giant Bullfrogs have been recorded from the

adjacent grid squares (Nigel area) during previous surveys as well as

during the South African Frog Atlas Project (SAFAP). Specimens recorded

were of road fatalities, migrating adult males as well as confirmed

breeding localities in the Nigel area. Bullfrog density commonly varies

within certain habitats (open grassland habitat). High densities are often

associated with specific microhabitats or patches (hygrophytic or aquatic

ephemerophytic grass and sedge dominated temporary pans) that can be

identified and randomly sampled. Emphasis must be placed on remaining

natural open grassland habitats (important migratory and foraging areas)

as well as seasonal wetlands (drainage and marshland vegetation)

surrounding the alignment. The channelled valley bottom wetland offers

no suitable breeding habitat for Giant Bullfrogs. Due to extensive habitat

transformation as well as high levels of human disturbances it is highly

unlikely that any Giant Bullfrogs remain in the area.

35

5.4 REPTILES

Reptile lists require intensive surveys conducted for several years.

Reptiles are extremely secretive and difficult to observe during field

surveys. The majority reptile species are sensitive to severe habitat

alteration and fragmentation. Due to human presence in the area coupled

with increased habitat destruction and disturbances around the alternative

sites are all causal factors in the alteration of reptile species occurring on

the site and surrounding areas. The small rocky hill provides favourable

refuges for certain snake and lizard species (rupiculous species). A few

termite mounds Trinervitermes haberlandii were observed along and

around the proposed alignments. Termite mounds offer important refuges

for numerous frog, lizard and snake species. Large number of species of

mammal, birds, reptiles and amphibians feed on the emerging alates

(winged termites). These mass emergences coincide with the first heavy

summer rains and the emergence of the majority of herpetofauna.

Termite mounds also provide nesting site for certain snake, lizards

(varanids) and frogs.

The indiscriminate killing of all snake species as well as the illegal

collecting of certain species for private and the commercial pet industry

reduces reptile populations especially snake populations drastically. The

frequent burning of the site will have a high impact on remaining reptiles.

Fires during the winter months will severely impact on the hibernating

species, which are extremely sluggish. Fires during the early summer

months destroy the emerging reptiles as well as refuge areas increasing

predation risks.

36

Figure12. Reptile species recorded from the quartzite outcrops

adjacent to the alignment 3 included A: The endemic Distant’s Ground

Agama (Agama aculeate distanti. B: Transvaal Gecko (Pachydactylus

affinis) was observed in a moribund termite mound. C: Mole Snake

(Pseudaspsis cana) was observed in the rocky hills to the north of the

alignment. D: Approximately 20 termite mounds including moribund

mounds were observed adjacent to the rocky outcrops increasing in

number towards the valley bottom. These moribund termite mounds offer

suitable habitat for several reptile species including the red listed Striped

Harlequin Snake.

37

Table6. Reptile species recorded from the 2628AC locus according to the

South African Reptile Conservation Assessment (SARCA).

Family Genus Species Subspecies Common

name

Red list

category

(SARCA

2014)

Atlas

region

endemic

Agamidae Agama aculeata distanti Distant's

Ground

Agama

Least Concern Yes

Agamidae Agama atra Southern

Rock Agama

Least Concern

Atractaspididae Aparallactus capensis Black-headed

Centipede-

eater

Least Concern

Atractaspididae Atractaspis bibronii Bibron's

Stiletto Snake

Least Concern

Atractaspididae Homoroselaps dorsalis Striped

Harlequin

Snake

Near

Threatened

Yes

Atractaspididae Homoroselaps lacteus Spotted

Harlequin

Snake

Least Concern Yes

Colubridae Boaedon capensis Brown House

Snake

Least Concern

Colubridae Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Red-lipped

Snake

Least Concern

Colubridae Dasypeltis scabra Rhombic Egg-

eater

Least Concern

Colubridae Duberria lutrix lutrix South African

Slug-eater

Least Concern Yes

Colubridae Lamprophis aurora Aurora House

Snake

Least Concern Yes

Colubridae Lycodonomorphus inornatus Olive House

Snake

Least Concern Yes

Colubridae Lycodonomorphus rufulus Brown Water

Snake

Least Concern

(SARCA 2014)

Colubridae Lycophidion capense capense Cape Wolf

Snake

Least Concern

Colubridae Prosymna sundevallii Sundevall's

Shovel-snout

Least Concern

Colubridae Psammophis crucifer Cross-marked

Grass Snake

Least Concern

(SARCA 2014)

Colubridae Psammophylax rhombeatus rhombeatus Spotted

Grass Snake

Least Concern

(SARCA 2014)

Cordylidae Cordylus vittifer Common

Girdled Lizard

Least Concern

Cordylidae Pseudocordylus melanotus melanotus Common

Crag Lizard

Least Concern Yes

38

Elapidae Elapsoidea sundevallii media Highveld

Garter Snake

Not listed

Elapidae Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals Least Concern

Gekkonidae Lygodactylus capensis capensis Common

Dwarf Gecko

Least Concern

Gekkonidae Pachydactylus affinis Transvaal

Gecko

Least Concern Yes

Gekkonidae Pachydactylus capensis Cape Gecko Least Concern

Gerrhosauridae Gerrhosaurus flavigularis Yellow-

throated

Plated Lizard

Least Concern

Lacertidae Nucras lalandii Delalande's

Sandveld

Lizard

Least Concern Yes

Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops scutifrons conjunctus Eastern

Thread Snake

Not listed

Leptotyphlopidae Leptotyphlops scutifrons scutifrons Peters'

Thread Snake

Not listed

Pelomedusidae Pelomedusa subrufa Marsh

Terrapin

Least Concern

Scincidae Afroablepharus wahlbergii Wahlberg's

Snake-eyed

Skink

Least Concern

Scincidae Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink Least Concern

Scincidae Trachylepis punctatissima Speckled

Rock Skink

Least Concern

Scincidae Trachylepis varia Variable

Skink

Least Concern

Testudinidae Stigmochelys pardalis Leopard

Tortoise

Least Concern

Typhlopidae Afrotyphlops bibronii Bibron's Blind

Snake

Least Concern

Typhlopidae Rhinotyphlops lalandei Delalande's

Beaked Blind

Snake

Least Concern

Viperidae Bitis arietans arietans Puff Adder Least Concern

Viperidae Causus rhombeatus Rhombic

Night Adder

Least Concern

39

HABITAT AVAIALBLE FOR SENSITIVE OR ENDANGERED SPECIES

The Striped Harlequin Snake (Homoroselaps dorsalis), which is

categorised as Near-Threatened in the latest Red Data List has been

recorded from the 2628AC grid square (ReptiMAP/SARCA 2014).

According to the habitat description (moribund/old termite mounds and

scattered loose rock) provided for this species by Broadley (1990) and

Branch (1988); extremely limited suitable habitat exists on the small

rocky hill in the form of moribund termite mounds as well as loosely

embedded rocks for the Striped Harlequin Snake. As a precautionary

measure a suitable qualified herpetologist should closely examine the

proposed tower positions for any loosely embedded rocks or moribund

termite mounds. If the termite mounds have to be destroyed they should

be carefully excavated and any reptile species recovered relocated in

suitable habitat away from the powerline.

40

Figure13. The proposed powerline and substation bisect mainly modified

(old lands) as well as limited natural areas according to the Mpumalanga

Conservation Plan (2014).

41

6. RANKING OF ALTERNATIVES 6.1. PROPOSED DELMAS NORTH SUBSTATION

The two proposed Delmas North Substations are situated in transformed

or secondary grasslands. Alternative 1 is situated adjacent to the Botleng

Cemetery. The second alternative site is situated within the McCains

property approximately 800m to the west of alternative 1. Extensive

dumping from the surrounding settlements occurs on and around the sites

as well as the frequent burning of the vegetation. The vegetation is

dominated by pioneer weedy plant species. From a faunal and vegetation

point the alternative substation site 1 is the slightly preferred option

as the alternative 2 site is situated adjacent to a degraded seepage

wetland. Both sites are however situated in heavily degraded or

transformed grassland habitats with low sensitivity and low

conservation potential.

6.2 LOOP-IN-LINE ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMNETS

Alternative 3 is the preferred alternative from a faunal and vegetation

perspective as the majority of the alignment occurs within transformed

grasslands such as agricultural lands, degraded grasslands and road

reserves. The alternative 3b is slightly preferred over 3a as it follows

completely transformed informal access roads. Alternative 1 will most

likely result in a low impact on remaining faunal species and limited

habitat destruction of mainly transformed or secondary grassland

vegetation within a local Delmas scale. It also only bisects a short section

of the valley bottom wetland adjacent to an existing access road.

Alternative 1 and 2 run parallel with the channelled valley bottom

wetland as well as bisecting larger sections of the valley-bottom wetland.

The proposed alignment could potentially result in further impacts on the

sensitive wetland system such as driving of vehicles in seasonal and

temporary wet zones of the wetland; compaction of the hydromorphic

soils, destruction of the hygrophytic vegetation as well as increased

disturbances to the associated fauna. Alternative 1 and 2 will have a

medium to low impact on remaining faunal species. More comprehensive

wetland as well as avifaunal surveys should be undertaken along the

valley bottom wetland if alternatives 1 or 2 are selected as the preferred

options.

42

Figure14. Preliminary sensitivity map for the Delmas substation and

circuit line

43

7. GENERIC DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

OF POWER LINES ON ASSOCIATED FAUNA

Because of their size and prominence, electrical infrastructures constitute

an important interface between wildlife and man. Negative interactions

between wildlife and electricity structures take many forms, but two

common problems in Southern Africa are electrocution of birds (and other

animals) and disturbance and habitat destruction during construction and

maintenance activities.

7.1 Habitat destruction and disturbance

During the construction phase and maintenance of powerlines, some

habitat destruction and alteration inevitably takes place. This happens

with the construction of access roads, and the clearing of servitudes.

Servitudes have to be cleared of excess vegetation at regular intervals in

order to allow access to the line for maintenance, to prevent vegetation

from intruding into the legally prescribed clearance gap between the

ground and the conductors and to minimize the risk of fire under the line

which can result in electrical flashovers. These activities have an impact

on fauna breeding, foraging and roosting in or in close proximity of the

servitude, both through modification of habitat and disturbance caused by

human activity. The proposed impact will be of medium-low; short-long

term impact on remaining (albeit) limited faunal species.

Mitigation and Recommendations

The following general recommendations are made to minimise the impacts

of proposed powerline construction on the immediate environment and

remaining fauna:

� Close site supervision must be maintained during construction.

� During the CONSTRUCTION phase workers must be limited to

areas under construction and access to the undeveloped areas,

especially the surrounding open areas must be strictly regulated

(“no-go” areas during construction activities).

� Provision of adequate toilet facilities must be implemented to

prevent the possible contamination of ground (borehole) water in

the area. Mobile toilets must be provided in order to minimise

unauthorised traffic of construction workers outside of the

designated areas.

44

� All temporary stockpile areas including litter and dumped material

and rubble must be removed on completion of construction. All

alien invasive plant should be removed from the site to prevent

further invasion.

� No servitudes should be constructed within any wetland habitat as

well as a 20m grassland buffer from the outer edge of the

temporary wet zone.

� Access to the powerline servitude must be restricted. Access to the

powerline servitude should ideally be fenced off and gated along the

main access roads. No quad-bikes, motorcycles or off road vehicles

and illegal hunting should be permitted along the valley bottom

wetland.

� Firearms or any other hunting weapons must be prohibited on site.

� Contract employees must be educated about the value of wild

animals and the importance of their conservation.

� Educational programmes for the contractor’s staff must be

implemented to ensure that project workers are alerted to the

possibility of snakes being found during vegetation clearance. The

construction team must be briefed about the management of

snakes in such instances. In particular, construction workers are to

go through ongoing refresher courses to ensure that threatened

snakes, such as Striped Harlequin Snakes, are not killed or

persecuted when found.

� Severe contractual fines must be imposed and immediate dismissal

on any contract employee who is found attempting to snare or

otherwise harm wild animals.

� No animals should be intentionally killed or destroyed and poaching

and hunting should not be permitted on the site.

� No specific recommendations are made for the protection of

burrowing red data mammals. Consideration could be given to

rescuing the animals where there burrows are found in advance of

construction. This is not recommended as a general prescription

since the chances of digging out live Aardwolf or Antbear are small.

Aardwolf are likely to vacate their burrows in the face of the

advancing construction. There is also a risk associated with

capturing animals dug out of burrows, and holding them in

captivity. If a section of many active burrows is found then

mitigation should be considered (minor deviation to the powerline

alignment or rescue operation for the animals).

45

7.2 VEGETATION/FLORA

Protected or endangered species may possibly occur along the line route.

Special care should be taken not to damage or remove any such species

unless absolutely necessary. Permits for removal must be obtained from

Provincial Nature Conservation should such species be affected. All plants

not interfering with the operation of the line shall be left undisturbed.

Collection of firewood and traditional medicinal plants is strictly prohibited.

No area should be cleared of trees, bushes and other vegetation for the

purpose of a camping site. The proposed alignments will have a low

impact if the following mitigatory measures are implemented.

Management objective

• Minimal disturbance to vegetation where such vegetation does not

interfere with construction and operation of the line. As the

alignments are situated within a grassland vegetation unit minimal

vegetation clearance is necessary.

• No unnecessary destruction to surrounding vegetation

• Prevention of litigation concerning removal of vegetation

Measurable targets

• Adequate protection of any endangered or threatened plant or tree

species. No endangered plant species were observed during brief field

assessment.

• No litigation due to removal of vegetation without the necessary

permits

Mitigation and recommendation

Remaining indigenous bulbous geophytes and Aloes should be retained or

replanted wherever possible. Where herbicides are used to clear

vegetation, specimen-specific chemicals should be applied to individual

plants only. General spraying should be prohibited.

All alien vegetation should be eradicated over a five-year period. Invasive

species (Acacia mearnsii, A. dealbata, Eucalyptus) should be given the

highest priority. No dumping of any materials in undeveloped open areas

and neighbouring properties. Activities in the surrounding open

undeveloped areas (especially valley bottom and rocky hill) must be

strictly regulated and managed.

46

The construction of the proposed powerline could result in limited

opening-up of the vegetal cover during the construction phase. The

opening up of existing vegetated areas, thereby creating corridors along

which animals can move, may result in increased predation levels on small

mammals, reptiles, amphibians, arachnids and scorpions along these

corridors. The limitation of the disturbance of vegetation cover as well as

rocky outcrops, logs, stumps, termite mounds within sensitive areas will

ameliorate this impact. Impact will be short-long term depending on the

amount of vegetation to be cleared. Excessive habitat destruction during

construction could reduce the amount of habitat available. This impact is

anticipated to be localised, of a long-term nature and of low significance,

provided that appropriate mitigation measures are implemented (e.g. the

limitation of vegetation clearance within sensitive areas).

Prior to construction and vegetation clearance a suitably qualified

Zoologist/Botanist or Environmental Control Officer (ECO) should closely

examine the proposed construction areas (tower supports) for the

presence of any animal burrows (including spiders and scorpions), rocky

outcrops, logs, stumps and other debris and relocate any affected animals

to appropriate habitat away from the servitude or tower.

7.3 REVEGETATION

Where necessary a suitable mixture of grass seed shall be used to re-seed

damaged areas. Badly damaged areas shall be fenced in to enhance

rehabilitation. Areas to be rehabilitated must be planted with a mixture of

endemic pioneer grass species endemic to the area, as soon as the new

growing season starts. To get the best results in a specific area, it is a

good idea to consult with a vegetation specialist or the local extension

officer of the Dept of Agriculture. Seed distributors can also give valuable

advice as to the mixtures and amount of seed necessary to seed a certain

area. Re-seeding, as well as fencing in of badly damaged areas, will

always be at the discretion of the Environmental Control Officer, unless

specifically requested by a Landowner.

Management objective

• Minimise damage to topsoil and environment at tower positions

• Successful rehabilitation of all damaged areas

• Prevention of erosion

47

Measurable targets

• No loss of topsoil due to construction activities

• All disturbed areas successfully rehabilitated within three months of

completion of the contract

• No visible erosion scars three months after completion of the contract

A mixture of seed can be used provided the mixture is carefully selected

to ensure the following:

a) Annual and perennial plants are chosen.

b) Pioneer species are included.

c) All the plants shall not be edible.

d) Species chosen will grow in the area without many problems.

e) Root systems must have a binding effect on the soil.

f) The final product should not cause an ecological imbalance in the area.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

• Disturbed areas of natural vegetation as well as cut and fills must be

rehabilitated immediately to prevent soil erosion.

• Re-seeding shall be done on disturbed areas as directed by the

Environmental Control Officer.

7.4 Surrounding Farming Activities

Domestic Livestock

Construction activities must be planned carefully so as not to interfere

with the calving and lambing season for most animal species. The

Contractor’s workforce will have to be very careful not to disturb the

animals as this may lead to fatalities which will give rise to claims from

the Landowners. Interference with any wildlife without the applicable

permits shall not be allowed. The Contractor shall under no circumstances

interfere with livestock without the Landowner being present. This

includes the moving of livestock where they interfere with construction

activities. Should the Contractors workforce obtain any livestock for eating

purposes, they must be in possession of a written note from the

Landowner. Speed limits must be restricted especially on farm roads

(30km/hr) preventing unnecessary road fatalities of surrounding livestock.

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Management objective

• Minimise disruption of surrounding farming activities

• Minimise disturbance of fauna

• Minimise interruption of breeding patterns of fauna

Measurable targets

• No hunting and poaching or intentional killing of animals (including

snakes, scorpions, spiders)

• No stock losses where construction is underway

• No complaints from Landowners or Nature Conservation

• No litigation concerning stock losses and animal deaths

7.5 ACCESS ROADS

Planning of access routes must be done in conjunction between the

Contractor, Eskom and the Landowner. All access to private farmland

must be negotiated in advance with land-owners. All agreements reached

shall be documented in writing and no verbal agreements should be

made. The condition of existing access / private roads to be used shall be

documented with photographs.

The Contractor shall properly mark all access roads. Markers shall show

the direction of travel as well as tower numbers to which the road leads.

Roads not to be used shall be marked with a "NO ENTRY" sign.

Unnecessary traversing of agricultural and natural open land is

discouraged. Where required, speed limits shall be indicated on the roads

(30km). All speed limits shall be strictly adhered to at all time.

Vehicle access to the powerline servitude must as far as possible be

limited to existing roads. If a new access roads need to be constructed it

should follow cleared areas such as cattle pathways. The following

mitigation should also be undertaken:

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7.6 VEGETATION CLEARANCE

Management objective

• Minimise damage to surrounding vegetation

• Minimise damage to topsoil

• Successful rehabilitation of barren areas

Measurable targets

• No damage to vegetation outside the road servitude

• No loss of topsoil

• No visible erosion three months after completion of the contract

• All disturbed areas successfully rehabilitated three months after

completion of the contract

The object of vegetation clearing is to trim, cut or clear the minimum

number of trees and vegetation necessary for the safe mechanical

construction and electrical operation of the transmission line. Only an 8m

strip may be cleared flush with the ground to allow vehicular passage

during construction. No scalping shall be allowed on any part of the

servitude road unless absolutely necessary. The removal of all

economically valuable trees or vegetation shall be negotiated with the

Landowner before such vegetation is removed. No indigenous tree species

occur within the proposed substation sites or alignments. Only trees are

alien invasive species which must be removed.

Vegetation clearing on tower sites must be kept to a minimum. Big trees

with large root systems shall be cut manually and removed, as the use of

a bulldozer will cause major damage to the soil when the root systems are

removed. Stumps shall be treated with herbicide. Smaller vegetation can

be flattened with a machine, but the blade should be kept above ground

level to prevent scalping. Any vegetation cleared on a tower site shall be

removed or flattened and not be pushed to form an embankment around

the tower.

No vegetation clearing in the form of de-stumping, scalping or uprooting

shall be allowed on river- and stream banks (riparian zone). Vegetation

shall only be cut to allow for the passage of the pilot-cables and

headboard. Trees and vegetation not interfering with the statutory

clearance to the conductors can be left under the line. Dense vegetation

under the line which could cause a fire hazard, particularly in the middle

third of the span in the vicinity of the lowest point of the conductors, will

50

be considered as a separate case. With permission of the landowner, the

total servitude under the line and up to 5m outside the outer phases can

be cleared.

Disturbed areas of natural vegetation as well as cut and fills must be

rehabilitated immediately to prevent soil erosion.

The use of herbicides shall only be allowed after a proper investigation

into the necessity, the type to be used, the long-term effects and the

effectiveness of the agent. Eskom's approval for the use of herbicides is

mandatory. Application shall be under the direct supervision of a qualified

technician. All surplus herbicide shall be disposed of in accordance with

the supplier’s specifications.

Upon completion of the stringing operations and before handover, the

servitude must be inspected and all vegetation interfering with the safe

operation of the line shall be removed / cut down. All alien vegetation in

the total servitude and densifiers creating a fire hazard shall be cleared

and treated with herbicides.

It is recommended that a contractor for vegetation clearing should comply

with the following parameters:

• the contractor must have the necessary knowledge to be able to

identify protected species as well as species not interfering with

the operation of the line due to their height and growth rate.

• the contractor must also be able to identify declared weeds and

alien species that can be totally eradicated.

• the contractor must be in possession of a valid herbicide

applicators licence.

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7.7 Fire Prevention

The frequent burning of the vegetation will have a high impact on

remaining reptile species. Fires during the winter months will severely

impact on the hibernating species, which are extremely sluggish. Fires

during the early summer months destroy the emerging reptiles as well as

refuge areas increasing predation risks.

Management objective

• Minimise risk of veld fires

• Minimise damage to grazing

• Prevent runaway fires

Measurable targets

• No veld fires started by the Contractor’s work force

• No claims from Landowners for damages due to veld fires

• No litigation

Mitigation and recommendations

No open fires shall be allowed on site under any circumstance. The

Contractor shall have fire-fighting equipment available on all vehicles

working on site, especially during the winter months.

7.7 Threatened animals

At a local Delmas North scale the study site and surrounding areas

comprises little or no suitable habitat for any threatened animal species.

Mitigation and recommendations

As a precautionary mitigation measure; a suitably qualified herpetologist

should examine all tower positions and moribund termite mounds for any

Striped Harlequin Snakes; prior to the commencement of construction

activities. In the event that any of the above-mentioned species are

discovered during construction activities the relevant conservation

authorities should be informed and activities surrounding the site

suspended until further investigations have been conducted.

52

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