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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

And
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME
REPORT

SUBMITTED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS IN TERMS OF THE NATIONAL


ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT, 1998 AND THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
WASTE ACT, 2008 IN RESPECT OF LISTED ACTIVITIES THAT HAVE BEEN TRIGGERED BY
APPLICATIONS IN TERMS OF THE MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT,
2002 (MPRDA) (AS AMENDED).

NAME OF APPLICANT: Mr. MJ Molebatsi: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd

TEL NO: 073 342 3893

FAX NO: N/A

POSTAL ADDRESS: 11786 Nathan Sidyiyo Street, Bloemanda, Kagisanong, 9323


PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 11786 Nathan Sidyiyo Street, Bloemanda, Kagisanong, 9323

FILE REFERENCE NUMBER SAMRAD: NW 30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM

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1. IMPORTANT NOTICE
In terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of
2002 as amended), the Minister must grant a prospecting or mining right if
among others the mining will not result in unacceptable pollution, ecological
degradation or damage to the environment.

Unless an Environmental Authorisation can be granted following the


evaluation of an Environmental Impact Assessment and an Environmental
Management Programme report in terms of the National Environmental
Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA), it cannot be concluded that the
said activities will not result in unacceptable pollution, ecological degradation
or damage to the environment.

In terms of section 16(3)(b) of the EIA Regulations, 2014, any report


submitted as part of an application must be prepared in a format that may be
determined by the Competent Authority and in terms of section 17 (1) (c) the
competent Authority must check whether the application has taken into
account any minimum requirements applicable or instructions or guidance
provided by the competent authority to the submission of applications.

It is therefore an instruction that the prescribed reports required in respect


of applications for an environmental authorisation for listed activities triggered
by an application for a right or a permit are submitted in the exact format of,
and provide all the information required in terms of, this template. Furthermore
please be advised that failure to submit the information required in the format
provided in this template will be regarded as a failure to meet the
requirements of the Regulation and will lead to the Environmental
Authorisation being refused.

It is furthermore an instruction that the Environmental Assessment


Practitioner must process and interpret his/her research and analysis and use
the findings thereof to compile the information required herein. (Unprocessed
supporting information may be attached as appendices). The EAP must
ensure that the information required is placed correctly in the relevant

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

sections of the Report, in the order, and under the provided headings as set
out below, and ensure that the report is not cluttered with un-interpreted
information and that it unambiguously represents the interpretation of the
applicant.

2. Objective of the basic assessment process


The objective of the basic assessment process is to, through a consultative process
(a) determine the policy and legislative context within which the proposed activity is
located and how the activity complies with and responds to the policy and
legislative context;

(b) identify the alternatives considered, including the activity, location, and technology
alternatives;

(c) describe the need and desirability of the proposed alternatives,

(d) through the undertaking of an impact and risk assessment process inclusive of
cumulative impacts which focused on determining the geographical, physical,
biological, social, economic, heritage , and cultural sensitivity of the sites and
locations within sites and the risk of impact of the proposed activity and
technology alternatives on the these aspects to determine:

(i) the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration, and probability of the
impacts occurring to; and
(ii) the degree to which these impacts
(aa) can be reversed;
(bb) may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and
(cc) can be managed, avoided or mitigated;
(e) through a ranking of the site sensitivities and possible impacts the activity and
technology alternatives will impose on the sites and location identified through the
life of the activity to
(i) identify and motivate a preferred site, activity and technology alternative;
(ii) identify suitable measures to manage, avoid or mitigate identified impacts; and
(iii) identify residual risks that need to be managed and monitored.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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Final Basic Assessment Report


Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province

Application Reference Number: NW 30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM

March 2017

Prepared for:
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd

Prepared by:
CSIR
P O Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599
Tel: +27 21 888 2432
Fax: +27 21 888 2693
Email: kstroebel@csir.co.za

Lead Authors:
Kelly Stroebel and Minnelise Levendal

CSIR 2017. All rights to the intellectual property and/or contents of this document remain vested
in the CSIR. This document is issued for the sole purpose for which it is supplied. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by
means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express written
permission of the CSIR. It may also not be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of
trade in any form of binding or cover than that in which it is published.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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PART A
SCOPE OF ASSSSMENT AND BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

3. Contact Person and correspondence address


a) Details of
i) Details of the EAP

Name of The Practitioner: Minnelise Levendal & Kelly Stroebel


Tel No.: 021 888 2432
Fax No. : 021 888 2473
e-mail address: kstroebel@csir.co.za
ii) Expertise of the EAP.
(1) The qualifications of the EAP
(with evidence).

Mrs. Minnelise Levendal

EDUCATION
M.Sc. (Botany) -Stellenbosch University-1998
B.Sc. (Hons.) (Botany) -University of the Western Cape - 1994
B.Sc. (Education) - University of the Western Cape- 1993

MEMBERSHIPS:
International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA), Western Cape (member of their steering
committee from 2001-2003)
IUCN Commission on Education and Communication (CEC); World Conservation Learning Network
(WCLN)
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Society of Conservation Biology (SCB)

Please see EAP CV attached to this report as Appendix B.

(2) Summary of the EAPs past experience.


(In carrying out the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure)
Minnelise joined the CSIR Environmental Management Services group (EMS) in 2008. She is focussing primarily
on managing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Basic Assessments (BAs) and Environmental Screening
studies for renewable energy projects including wind and solar projects. These include an EIA for a wind energy
facility near Swellendam, Western Cape South Africa for BioTherm (Authorisation granted in September 2011)
and a similar EIA for BioTherm in Laingsburg, Western Cape (in progress). She is also managing two wind farm
EIAs and a solar Photovoltaic BA for WKN-Windcurrent SA in the Eastern Cape. Minnelise was the project
manager for the Basic Assessment for the erection of ten wind monitoring masts at different sites in South Africa
as part of the national wind atlas project of the Department of Energy in 2009 and 2010. She was also a member
of the Project Implementation Team who managed the drafting of South Africas Second National Communication
under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The national Department of Environmental
Affairs appointed the South African Botanical Institute (SANBI) to undertake this project. SANBI subsequently
appointed the CSIR to manage this project.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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Please see Appendix B for a list of projects Minnelise has been involved in and a full CV.

b) Location of the overall Activity.

Farm Name: Kwaggaslaagte 121 Potion 1


Total area of the farm is 50 ha but the development
Application area (Ha) footprint will be 5 ha.
Magisterial district: Ditsobotla Local Municipality, within the Ngaka Modiri
Molema District Municipality
Distance and direction The nearest town is Ventersdorp and is approximately
from nearest town 35 km from the proposed site.

21 digit Surveyor T0IQ00000000012100001


General Code for each
farm portion

c) Locality map
(show nearest town, scale not smaller than 1:250000).

Locality Map is attached as Appendix C.

d) Description of the scope of the proposed overall activity.


Provide a plan drawn to a scale acceptable to the competent authority but not less than 1: 10 000 that shows
the location, and area (hectares) of all the aforesaid main and listed activities, and infrastructure to be placed
on site

Site Layout Plan is attached as Appendix D.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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(i) Listed and specified activities

NAME OF ACTIVITY Aerial LISTED APPLICABLE


extent ACTIVITY LISTING
(E.g. For prospecting - drill site, site camp,
ablution facility, accommodation, of the Mark with NOTICE
equipment storage, sample storage, site Activity an X where (GNR 544, GNR
office, access route etcetcetc
Ha or applicable 545 or GNR

E.g. for mining,- excavations, blasting, m or 546)


stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, affected.
Loading, hauling and transport, Water
supply dams and boreholes,
accommodation, offices, ablution, stores,
workshops, processing plant, storm water
control, berms, roads, pipelines, power
lines, conveyors, etcetcetc.)
Any activity including the operation of that 5 ha X GN R983 of 4
activity which requires a mining permit in December 2014,
terms of section 27of the Mineral and Activity 21.
Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002
(Act No. 28 of 2002), including associated
infrastructure, structures and earthworks
directly related to the extraction of mineral
resource, including activities for which an
exemption has been issued in terms of section
106 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources
Development Act (2002).

This project will include the open


cast/trenching (earthworks) method of
extraction.

The clearance of an area of 1 hectare or more, 5 ha X GN. R 983, 4


but less than 20 hectares, of indigenous December 2014,
vegetation, except where such clearance of Activity 27
indigenous vegetation is required for-
(i) The undertaking of a linear activity.
(ii) Maintenance purposes undertaken in
accordance with a maintenance management
plan.
The clearance of an area of 300 m or more of 5 ha X GN. R 985, 4
indigenous vegetation except where such December 2014,
clearance is required for maintenance Activity 12
purposes undertaken in accordance with a
maintenance plan.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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March 2, 2017

(ii) Description of the activities to be undertaken


(Describe Methodology or technology to be employed, including the type of commodity to be
prospected/mined and for a linear activity, a description of the route of the activity)

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is proposing a small-scale diamond mining endeavour (mineral exploration,
excavation, mining and washing) on 1.5 hectares of the 50 hectare farm of Kwaggaslagte 121-1 located
near the Ga-Motlatla Village, North West. This area falls under the Ditsobotla Local Municipality, within
the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and is approximately 35 km from Ventersdorp. The site
has been previously mined and Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd plans to re-excavate the mining site (Appendix C and
D). The proposed project will include the application for a mining permit which triggers a listed activity in
terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations, Government Notice Regulations
(GNR) 983 of December 2014, promulgated under the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA)
(Act no 107 of 1998).

The project will entail an open cast/trenching method of excavation. Trenching will be developed
according to the width of the vein following the lateral direction. Mined ore will be trammed using a 10
tonne dump truck to the washing facility. The material will be sorted using machinery in a processing
space of 20m x 30m. Open-cast mines are dug on benches, which describe vertical levels of the hole.
These benches are on four to sixty meter intervals (the determination of the use of benches will be
informed later in the development process). In terms of blasting, the weathering of the rocks will be
examined in order to determine the angle of the blast so as to minimize damage and danger from rock
falls. Additional ground support may be required such as rock bolts, cable bolts and shotcrete. De-
watering bores may be used to relieve water pressure by drilling horizontally into the wall, which is often
enough to cause failures in the wall by itself. A haul road will be situated at the side of the pit, forming a
ramp up which trucks can drive, carrying ore and waste rock. Waste rock will be piled up at the surface,
near the edge of the open pit (waste dump). The waste dump will be tiered and stepped, to minimize
degradation.

Advantages of open-pit mining include:


1. Powerful trucks and shovels can be used to move large volumes of rock.
2. Equipment not restricted by the size of the opening you are working in.
3. Faster production.
4. Lower cost to mine means lower grades of ore are economic to mine.

This simplified graphic below describes the sequence of events for open-cast mining:

The project activities will ultimately consist of the following components:

10 ft diamond rotary pan


Diesel generator (8.35 45 kw)
Jig
Feedbin

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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Feed conveyor
Concrete tapping bin
Storage Bin
Small Feeder
Stockpile area
Truck Load Backhoe (TLB)
Existing borehole
Water pump, pumpoing system and lighting.
Diesel storage tank
Machinery/vehicle maintenance area
Storage facility
Septic toilets
Security/Workers facility and office (portable trailer)
Sorting room
Stormwater management infrastructure
Access road (existing)
Clearance of an area of 5 ha of vegetation (See terrestrial ecology specialist study attached)

In terms of the phases of the project, due to the fact that there is an existing excavation, construction will
only include preparing the area for the mobile facilities and re-grading the existing road (Appendix D). Due
to the fact the Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd will be using mobile and temporary facilities and washing operations, no
destruction will be involved in the decommissioning phase. The surface area will be rehabilitated by
establishing the general topography of the surrounding area, ensuring that there are no remnants of the
structures. Closure and rehabilitation of pits will be undertaken during the operational phase of the
operation when the activities are completed in those pits. Post-closure monitoring will assist in determining
the success of the rehabilitation and also identify whether any additional measures need to be taken to
ensure the area is restored to a reasonable and acceptable condition. The figures below represent the
existing state of the excavation on site.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Figure 1 and 2: Existing excavation on site

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

e) Policy and Legislative Context


APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND REFERENCE HOW DOES THIS
GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE DEVELOPMENT COMPLIY
WHERE APPLIED
REPORT WITH AND RESPOND TO THE
(a description of the policy and legislative context within LEGISLATION AND POLICY
which the development is proposed including an CONTEXT.
identification of all legislation, policies, plans,
guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development
planning frameworks and instruments that are (E.g. In terms of the National
applicable to this activity and are to be considered in Water Act a Water Use License
the assessment process has/ has not been applied for)

National Environmental Management Act (Act S24(1) of NEMA This Basic Assessment
107 of 1998), as amended S28(1) of NEMA Report is the subject of this
Act.
National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Section 102 A mining permit application
Development Act (Act No 28 of 2002) has been applied for (Ref:
XXXX
National Water Act (NWA), 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) S21
National Environmental Management: Waste Act Category A and B There is the potential for
(Act No. 59 of 2008) the generation of some
general, hazardous and
non-hazardous wastes due
to proposed operations. If
required, a Waste License
will be applied for
separately.
National Environmental Management Air Quality Mining Activities Standards for particulates
Act (Act No. 39 of 2004, Government Gazette No. and dust used in IA to
27318) (NEMAQA) regulate the concentration
of a substance that can be
tolerated without any
environmental
deterioration
National Ambient Air Quality Standards Mining Activities See above
(Government Gazette No. 32816) (NAAQS)
National Dust Control Regulations (Government Mining Activities See above
Gazette No. 36974) (NDCR)
The National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 Management/monitoring Heritage Impact
of 1999) measures Assessment has been
conducted as part of this
Application.
National Environmental Management: Mining Activities The potential impact on
Biodiversity Act (Act No. 10 of 2004) Conservation Important
Floral and faunal species
in the Study Area, and the
management thereof is
addressed in this BAR.
North West Provincial Development Plan Needs and desirability Municipal plans were used
of the proposed to identify relevant socio-

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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activities economic information and


spatial development
information with regards to
the area relevant to the
project site.

f) Need and desirability of the proposed activities.


(Motivate the need and desirability of the proposed development including the need and desirability of the activity
in the context of the preferred location).

NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

Questions (Notice 792, NEMA, 2012) Answer

PART I: NEED
1. Is the land use associated with the activity Yes. The regional mining operations and
being applied for considered within the regional structures are an integral part of its
timeframe intended by the existing rationale to make use of the abundant natural
approved SDF agreed to be the relevant resources in the area to create strong, resilient
environmental authority? and prosperous districts. The Ditsobotla Local
Municipality revised their integrated
development plan for 2015/2016 2017/2018.
They also created a local Economic
Development Strategy that was adopted by
Council on 29th January 2016.

2. Should the development, or if applicable, Yes, according to the Regional Developmental


expansion of the town/area concerned in Overview for Ditsobotla, the proposed project
terms of this land use occurs here at this falls within an area which is demarcated as
point in time? rural, and the intention of development in this
area is to create vibrant, equitable and
sustainable rural development which provides
food and work opportunities.
3. Does the community/area need the activity Yes it does. According to the LED strategy of
and the associated land use concerned? 2016, this is a predominantly rural region.
This refers to the strategic as well as local Farming activities focus on cattle ranching,
level. game farming
(Zeerust), and maize, wheat, fruit and vegetable
cultivation. Several kinds of minerals, including
gold, diamonds, lime and salt are also mined.
Agriculture and mining form the economic
backbone of the district.
4. Are the necessary services with adequate Yes. The proposed project will be using water
capacity currently available (at the time of directly for the registered borehole and will not
application) or must additional capacity be rely on municipal water services. The road
created to cater for the development? networks are fully intact and the project will not
have a major impact on road congestion. Thus,
additional capacity does not need to be created
for the development.

5. Is this development provided for in the The development is not provided for in the
infrastructure planning of the municipality, infrastructure planning of the municipality as it is
and if not what will the implication be on the a small development of local importance. Thus,
infrastructure planning of the municipality the proposed project will not have any
(priority and placement of the services and implications for the infrastructure planning, as

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

Questions (Notice 792, NEMA, 2012) Answer

opportunity cost)? no services and/or infrastructure needs to be


upgraded or created to cater for this
development. The proposed project will be
making use of mobile structures and an already
existing mining pit that has been previously
mined, this it will have no impact on regional
infrastructure.
6. Is the project part of a national programme The mining sector is a significant contributor to
to address an issue of national concern or the National GDP as well as a massive
importance? employer of people. The mining sector
contributed 10% of the GVA of the local
economy during 2010 and 1.2% towards the
local economys employment. The average
annual GVA growth between 1995 and 2010 is -
8.5% with an annual average formal
employment contribution of 1.1% during the
same period.

In addition, The National Development Plan


(NDP) Vision for 2030 offers a long-term
perspective. It defines a desired destination and
identifies the role different sectors of society
need to play in reaching that goal. The main
goals highlighted in the NDP which pertain to
the proposed project are employment. Chapter
6 of the National Development Plan highlights
an inclusive rural economy and the objectives
of this plan are to create jobs in mining and
industry and activating rural economies through
service to small and micro mining.
PART II: DESIRABILITY
1. Is the development the best practicable Yes. This site does not have high crop
environmental option for this land/site? agricultural potential according due to over
grazing and previous mining. The current land
use map attached as Appendix C highlights the
current state of the site. The area is in
abundance of mineral resources and is
characterized by high levels of poverty. The
proposed project thus offers a solution fitting
with the surrounding environment.
2. Would the approval of this application No. The proposed project aligns itself with the
compromise the integrity of the existing Ditsobotla Local Municipalities IDP for
approved and credible IDP and SDF as 2015/2016 2017/2018 and their Local
agreed to by the relevant authorities? Economic Development Strategy that was
adopted by Council on 29th January 2016.The
following strategic objectives are sought to be
achieved and are aligned with the objectives of
the proposed project:

Promote shared economic growth and job


creation
Improve financial sustainability
Continue institutional development,
transformation and innovation

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

Questions (Notice 792, NEMA, 2012) Answer

3. Would the approval of this application No, the integrity of the existing environmental
compromise the integrity of the existing management priorities for the area will not be
environmental management priorities for compromised by this development. The
the area (e.g. as defined in EMFs), and if Ditsobotla Municipality states that there are only
so, can it be justified in terms of two important types of mining and quarrying
sustainability considerations? activities which impacts on the spatial
development of the Ditsobotla Local
Municipality: The quarrying of limestone
deposits associated with the manufacturing
activities of Lafarge and AfriSam. Thus, this
proposed project will have no spatial impact.

4. Do location factors favour this land use at Yes, as mentioned in Question 3 above, this
this place? (this relates to the area has been demarcated for mining
contextualization of the proposed land use development in the greater context of the
on this site within its broader context). province due to its location and adjacency to
favourable markets, high land capability and
high intensity of existing mining resulting in the
services, technologies support and labour to be
easily accessible in the area.
5. How will the activity of the land use The development of the proposed development
associated with the activity being applied associated mobile (temporary) infrastructure
for, impact on sensitive natural and cultural measuring around 5 ha in size will exert an
areas (built and rural/natural environment)? impact on the environment; but based on the
findings of the Specialist Studies (Appendix G),
and as per the specialist recommendations and
the locality of the site, the impacts associated
with this proposed development can be
mitigated to an acceptable level (Low, Low-
Medium).

6. How will the development impact on Kindly see Table 1 of this Report with regards to
peoples health and well-being? (E.g. In the Impact Assessment.
terms of noise, odours, visual character
and sense of place, etc.)? In summary, due to the fact that this area has
an extremely low density of residents and
dwellings and the site has been demarcated by
the tribunal council of Ga-Motlatla for mining
activities, the impacts on well-being, following
mitigation, will be as follows:

Visual: Low
Dust: Low
Noise: Low
Sense of place: Low
7. Will the proposed activity or the land use No. The diamond mining industry in South
associated with the activity being applied Africa has been a cornerstone of the economy
for, result in unacceptable opportunity for a long period of history.
costs?
South Africa offers ongoing proof that diamond
revenues can create sizeable benefits to the
economy in countries where they are sourced.
In these countries, diamonds have contributed
to funding impressive economic growth and

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

Questions (Notice 792, NEMA, 2012) Answer

stability.
8. Will the proposed land use result in No. The proposed project has only been
unacceptable cumulative impacts? identified to have minimal cumulative impacts
that can be mitigated to an acceptable level.
The measures outlined in the EMP attached will
serve as a method to keep the proposed project
from having any serious ling term cumulative
impacts on the receiving environment. impacts.

g) Motivation for the overall preferred site, activities and technology


alternative.

The project site is located in the Grootpan district of the Ditsobotla Local Municipality, and according to
the municipalitys 2016 Local Economic Development Strategy, the identified flagship projects of this
ward are diamond, manganese mining and services. The proposed method of open pit mining allows
easy access of machinery to the site and does not require extensive machinery as other methods,
making it feasible for small-scale miners. It reduces the overall costs associated with the mining
process, thus allowing financial viability in small scale mining of mineral deposits.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd has plans to boost local socio-economic development through this proposed
project, which is surrounded by the village of Ga-Motlatla, and will provide employment opportunities,
thus stimulating development in the community. The proposed project therefore is an effort to make
use of available opportunities and development prospects in line with the Ditsobotla 2016 Local
Economic Development Strategy as well as those of the North West Provincial Development Plan
aimed to promote Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMME) in communities with mining
potential.

The parameters taken into account when selecting a site included:


Environmental
Streams and rivers;
Wetlands;
Flora, fauna and vegetation;
Social
Homesteads;
Farming;
Technical
Topography; and
Access

h) Full description of the process followed to reach the proposed preferred


alternatives within the site.
NB!! This section is about the determination of the specific site layout and the location of infrastructure and
activities on site, having taken into consideration the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and the
consideration of alternatives to the initially proposed site layout.

i) Details of the development footprint alternatives considered.


With reference to the site plan provided as Appendix D and the location of the individual activities on site,
provide details of the alternatives considered with respect to:
(a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity;
(b) the type of activity to be undertaken;
(c) the design or layout of the activity;

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
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(d) the technology to be used in the activity;


(e) the operational aspects of the activity; and
(f) the option of not implementing the activity.
Alternatives:
a) With regards to property alternatives, the proposed location is the only alternative that will be assessed. The
reasons for this are as follows:

The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) commissioned the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) to run the Special Needs and Skills Development (SNSD) Programme which is aimed at
providing pro bono Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for people who are classified as special needs
clients/applicants, specifically Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), Community Trusts, Individuals
or Government Programmes. The CSIR received an application from Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd under the SNSD
Programme. The CSIR identified the Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd as a client or a special needs applicant and has
agreed to assist them with acquiring Environmental Authorization for the project on a pro bono basis,
including the cost of the basic assessment, specialist studies, site visits and human resources.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is a 100% black owned entity supported by government funding. The land is being
leased to Mosotetsi by the local tribal council of Ga-Motlatla who are in full support of this project. Thus, the
site which is being investigated in this report is the only site available to this entity and there are no available
alternative sites to be considered. The layout of the proposed project has been carefully informed by the
findings of the Specialist studies (Appendices G1, G2, G3, G4) so as to avoid removing too many areas
special concern.

b) No alternatives to the mining of diamonds have been considered; mining of these minerals was identified as
an important enterprise to the area and community. The operating plan for the proposed project has been
informed by extensive market research and an assessment of the need of the products that will be produced.
A robust economic assessment has been developed for the approval of this project. In addition to the
economic viability, the jobs being created by the proposed development will be sourced to local communities.

c) The site layout was determined by considering both spatial and practical mining operation aspects. The
proposed layout will allow for more effective management of mined ores.

d) No alternative technology has been considered for the proposed mining activity as support has been given by
mining industries who are able to advise on the best technology for the associated activity.

e) The optimal operational activities have been proposed, inclusive of the site layout and mobile infrastructure,
in consideration of spatial aspects, post-mining appearance, as well as reducing costs associated with
stripping down built infrastructure.

f) The no-go activity has been considered, and assumes that should the proposed activity not proceed then the
status quo would remain. This includes no clearing of land, no digging of trenches, no mining operations on
site and no decommissioning at the end of the project life cycle. This project is in an area of mineral potential
and that the proposed mining would lead to job creation, contribution to the GDP of the municipality and the
province, and be an opportunity to improve the local socio-economic situation. Thus, the no-go option will not
be taken forward into the assessment phase

ii) Details of the Public Participation Process Followed


Describe the process undertaken to consult interested and affected parties including public meetings and one on
one consultation. NB the affected parties must be specifically consulted regardless of whether or not they
attended public meetings. (Information to be provided to affected parties must include sufficient detail of the
intended operation to enable them to assess what impact the activities will have on them or on the use of their
land.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Public participation activities that have been / are to be undertaken to inform the public, stakeholders and
Organs of State of the applications and availability of the Basic Assessment Report are listed below.

Newspaper Adverts published on the 27 November 2015 in the Klerksdorp Record (English) and
The Lentswe (Tswana) (see copy of the adverts as Appendix E1).
Site notices (English and Tswana) placed at the following location on the 27 November 2015:
Entrance to the site (GPS co-ordinates: 260430.6S, 263351.3E). Proof of placement of the site
notices and contents of the site notices can be seen as Appendix E2.
A letter indicating the announcement of the Basic Assessment Process, a Background Information
Document (BID) and a comment and registration form was sent to all pre-identified I&APs on the
th
25 November 2015. This communication was sent electronically via email as well as via post to
I&APs whose email addresses were not available. Copies of the documents mentioned above can
be seen as Appendix E3. The I&AP database is attached as Appendix E4.
An email and post to registered I&APs, landowners, ward councillors and commenting authorities
(Local and District Municipalities) has been sent to notify these parties of the application and
availability of the Draft Report for 30-day commenting period. Comments received during the 30 day
public participation period have been incorporated in the Final Report which has been submitted to
the competent Authority (DMR) for their decision. The Draft Basic Assessment Report and Draft
Environmental Management Programme have therefore been made available at the following
th th
locations from the 30 January 2017 to the 28 February 2017 (30 day public participation period,
accounting for public holidays):
o Lichtenburg Library (Nelson Mandela Street, Lichtenburg)
o CSIR Special Needs and Skills Development Website under Draft Reports:
https://www.csir.co.za/environmental-impact-assessment
Copies and proof of correspondence to I&APs as well as Comments from I&APs can be seen in
Appendix E3 and E5 respectively.

17
iii) Summary of issues raised by I&Aps
(Complete the table summarising comments and issues raised, and reaction to those responses)
NOTE: The comments below were received following the release of the Draft Basic Assessment Report on 30 January 2017. A copy of the full I&AP database can
be seen in Appendix E4. Proof of notification of reports for comment can be seen in Appendix E3. Copies of the correspondence received by I&APs can be
found in Appendix E5.
Lines left blank are where no comments were received by that party.
Interested and Affected Parties Date Issues raised EAPs response to issues Section
Comments as mandated by the and
List the names of persons Received applicant paragraph
consulted in this column, and reference
Mark with an X where those who in this
must be consulted were in fact report
consulted. where the
issues and
or
response
were
incorporat
ed.
AFFECTED PARTIES
Landowner/s X
Lawful occupier/s of the X
land
Landowners or lawful X
occupiers
on adjacent properties

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Municipal councillor X
Municipality X
Organs of state X
(Responsible for
infrastructure that may be
affected Roads
Department,
Eskom, Telkom, DWA e
Mr. Jan Oliver X 04/02/2016 Applications and request for comments must be emailed to Noted. Thank you. Appendix
NRStatutory@nra.co.za and not to Victoria Bota (individuals). That E5.
SANRAL way, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and tracking of
the application by Ria Barkhuizen delegating the requests.

Enquiries as to the progress of applications and requests for


comments must be directed to Ms Ria Barkhuizen Tel 012 426 6201
email NRStatutory@nra.co.za.

The NRA has no comment/objection to this application as it does


not affect a national route.
Communities X
Dept. Land Affairs X
Traditional Leaders X
Dept. Environmental X
Affairs
Ms. Portia Krisjan 28/02/2017 1) The draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) which was submitted 1) Noted. Part B
for comment and received by this Department on 31 January Appendix
2017, including a site inspection undertaken by the Department 2a) Noted. Please see the G3
Director: Environmental official Mr. Sammy Mabula with Mr. Isaac Moshugi of Mosotetsi EMPr in Part B of this report Appendix
(Pty) Ltd on 03 February 2017 has reference. pertaining to the removal of E1
Quality Management
2) The Department has reviewed the Basic Assessment Report and Red Data species should any Appendix
has no objection to the submission of the Basic Assessment be encountered. E5.
Report to the Department of Mineral Resources for consideration
North West Province:
on condition that the following issues are considered and 2b) The EMPr will be followed
addressed in the Basic Assessment Report:- to remove any Critically
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Department of Rural, a) The probable occurrence of Red Data species on site endangered CI species.
must be further investigated and verified. Should such Please see Appendix G3 for
Environmental and
species be found on site, relevant permit regarding detailed information on which
Agricultural Development removal or disturbance of Red Data species must be CI species are present on site.
obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry
(READ)
and Fisheries prior to the removal or disturbance of such 2c) Please see Section D (iv)
species. highlighting that the fuel
b) This Department recommended that all plant species of storage will be under the
conservation importance (if any) be removed from the maximum and no additional
demarcated mining area prior to the commencement of listed activity need be applied
mining, and must either be relocated outside of the for.
development area or donated to the South African
National Biodiversity institute in consultation with 2d) The tearsheet of the actual
Biodiversity Management Directorate of this Department. newspaper advert needs to be
c) The Basic Assessment Report indicates that an area of 2 zoomed out so as to see the
hectares will be used for storage of hazardous substance date of publication at the top
(fuel). However, the report did not specify the quantity of right of the page (27
hazardous substances that will be stored on site. Kindly November 2015). A clearly
be advised that storage of hazardous substances in written copy of the contents of
certain quantities (80 cubic metres and more /30 cubic each advert has been placed
metres for Critical Biodiversity Area) may be a listed on the page before each
activity which requires environmental authorisation. In tearsheet. Please see
this regard, the applicant must ensure that hazardous Appendix E1.
substances to be stored on site are below the threshold
of any listed activity in terms of NEMA ElA Regulations, 2e) Please see Part B (EMPr)
2014, as this activity was not covered by the scope of for a description and mitigation
this application. All hazardous substance storage areas measures for water pollution.
must be bunded.
d) Proof of newspaper advertisement that was included in 2f) Please see Appendix E4
the BAR is not clearly visible. The newspaper indicating that DWS/DWA has
advertisement should be readable, and clearly indicate been consulted throughout this
the name and date of the publication. The Basic process and no comments
Assessment Report must contain all information of public have been received. The
participation process that was undertaken for this project, required mine operation
including proof of newspaper advertisement. volume falls within the General
e) The Basic Assessment Report indicates that a washing Authorisation, in terms of water
facility will be established on site; hence the report did use, of the farm portion, and
not describe the pollution state of water from the washing therefore a Section 21 (a)
facility and details of how such water will be managed. water use licence will not be
This information should be included in the BAR, as it is required by the mine.
important to determine pollution level of the mining
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

operation, and to propose adequate mitigation measures. 2g) This section (section H iii)
f) The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) must be shows responses to
consulted regarding the proposed abstraction of water comments. Copies of all
from the borehole for the purpose of mining, and to comments received can be
determine their water use licence requirements. seen in Appendix E5.
g) All comments received from registered interested and
affected parties must be addressed and incorporated in Thank you for your comments.
the Basic Assessment Report.

Should you have any queries regarding the above matter, please do
not hesitate to contact this office.
Other Competent X
Authorities affected
Mrs. Natasha Higgit X 03/06/2016 A Phase 1 PIA includes a field assessment of the impact footprint. As A full Heritage Specialist Study Appendix G1
the mining operations have already exposed the bedrock, the was conducted and is attached and Section J.
SAHRA palaeontologist can examine the geology and may identify fossil as Appendix G1
material. A full Palaeontological and Heritage specialist study is
required, including a field assessment as a desktop study cannot
accurately predict what is present at the site. The impact footprint
should be surveyed by a qualified palaeontologist and heritage
specialist. The mitigation measures provided in the reports should
then be included in the BAR and EMP.
OTHER AFFECTED PARTIES
Mr. Sampie van der Merwe 02/02/2017 Thank you for your comments Appendix
1. Thank you very much for informing us of this draft basic and they are noted. Please G3.
Reserve Manager assessment report in connection to this proposed mining activity. see Appendix G3 for the fauna
and flora specialist study.
Barberspan Bird Sanctuary 2. As the area is situated far from Barberspan Bird Sanctuary, which
is situated between Sannieshof and Delareyville, about 120 km to the
west of the proposed activity, it is my opinion that it will not has an
effect on our area [nature reserve/ ramsar site] and we will not
actively partake in the process.

3. The area is much closer to one of our other nature reserve,


Molemane nature reserve, near Ottoshoop. I forward your e mail to
the relevant reserve manager, if they want to give input on the
assessment report for propose mining activity.
INTERESTED PARTIES

6
i) The Environmental attributes associated with the alternatives.(The
environmental attributed described must include socio-economic, social, heritage, cultural,
geographical, physical and biological aspects)

(1) Baseline Environment

(a) Type of environment affected by the proposed activity.


(its current geographical, physical, biological, socio- economic, and cultural character).
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is located on the farm Kwaggaslaagte 121-1, near the Ga-Motlatla Village approximately
35 km from Ventersdorp. The study site falls within the 2626BA quarter degree square (QDGS). From
historical imagery, it is clear that the majority of the area over the last 20 years has been under agriculture
(crop fields).

Climatic Information

The study area receives rainfall, mostly during the summer months. Figure 3 shows monthly rainfall and
temperature data from January 2015 up until February 2016. The highest rainfall has been received over
January, with February and December receiving very little rainfall. The annual rainfall from January to
December 2015 was 218 mm, which indicates a dryer than usual year. The maximum temperatures range
from 30C in January and December and the minimum temperatures range from 1C in June and July.

Figure 3: Monthly Rainfall and Temperature Patterns for Lichtenburg from January 2015 to February
2016

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Geology

The Chuniespoort Group (situated within the Transvaal Basin of the Transvaal Supergroup), and specifically the
Neoarchaean (~2600-2500 million years old [Ma]) dolomites of the Malmani Subgroup, dominates the region
surrounding the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine. The chert-rich dolomites (i.e. magnesium-rich calcium
carbonate rock) of the Monte Christo Formation, which falls within the Malmani Subgroup, underlie the proposed
mine and dip shallowly (<10) to the north.
The depositional environment of the Malmani Subgroup is interpreted to have been a stable shallow marine
platform and basin e.g. something akin to the present day Great Barrier Reef, and has been subdivided into the
following formations (oldest to youngest): Oaktree, Monte Christo, Lyttelton, Eccles and Frisco Formations (See
Geo-hydrology specialist study attached as Appendix G3).
The ~10-200 m thick Oaktree Formation, which occurs 10 km SSE of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine,
forms the base of the Malmani Subgroup and consists of carbonaceous shales, stromatolitic dolomites and
locally developed. The Monte Christo Formation (which underlies the proposed mine as well as the immediate
area within a ~10 km radius of the mine) is ~300-500 m thick and consists of chert-rich dolomite and oolitic.
The remaining Malmani Subgroup formations that overlie the Monte Christo Formation occur east and north of
the proposed mine. The Lyttelton Formation immediately overlies the Monte Christo Formation ~1.5 km north of
the proposed mine, consists of 100-200 m of shales, quartzites and stromatolitic dolomites, and is rich in iron
and manganese. This is overlain by the 600 m thick cherty dolomites of the Eccles Formation. The Frisco
Formation forms the top of the Malmani Subgroup and consists of 400 m of stromatolitic dolomites.

Hydrology

The proposed site falls within the Middle Vaal Management Area (WMA) 9, Quaternary Catchment C24F and
Ecoregion 11.01 (Highveld eco-region) (Figure 4). According to the DWA (2012), the Middle Vaal WMA is
located downstream of the confluence of the Vaal and the Rietspruit Rivers and upstream of Bloemhof Dam. It
extends to the Skoonspruit River in the north and the Vet River in the south, and covers a total catchment area
of 52 563 km2. The Middle Vaal WMA incorporates portions of the Free State and North-West Provinces and is,
therefore, important to the regional economies of these provinces. Major rivers in the Middle Vaal WMA include
the Skoonspruit, Renoster, Vals, Vet and Vaal rivers (DWA, 2012).

The Monamaladi River (19km south west of the site) is a tributary of the Taaibosspruit, which flows south and
joins the Skoonspruit and eventually the Vaal River just downstream of the town of Orkney. In the Skoonspruit
Catchment, land use is predominately mining, dryland and limited irrigated agriculture and urbanization. The
Skoonspruit dolomitic eye represents an important resource in the upper part of the catchment, providing water
for irrigation agriculture and Ventersdorp as well as base flow in the river. There are also substantial irrigation
abstractions through boreholes from the dolomitic compartments feeding the eye. Major impacts include mining
and agricultural return flows, flow regulation for irrigation use, and water quality related problems due to
urbanization, mining and agriculture (DWA, 2012).

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Figure 4: Ecoregion and Quaternary Catchments in the Study Area

Fauna and Flora

The site is situated in the Grassland Biome, and more specifically the Gh 15 Carletonville Dolomite Grassland
(Figure 5). The Grassland Biome is found primarily on the high central plateau of South Africa. The majority of plant
species within grasslands are non-grassy herbs (forbs), most of which are perennial plants with large underground
storage structures. Frost, fire and grazing maintain the herbaceous grass and forb layer, and ultimately prevent the
establishment of tall woody plants. This vegetation unit occurs on slightly undulating plains dissected by prominent
rocky chert ridges. Species-rich grasslands forming a complex mosaic pattern dominated by many species

Habitat diversity within the small relatively flat chert-dominated Kwaggaslaagte site is low and as such a low faunal
diversity is expected to occur. In spite of this a number of Conservation Important Species (CIS) may utilise the site
albeit sporadically. Few (if any) are likely to be resident and most CIS will not be dependent on the site (Terrestrial
Ecology specialist study attached as Appendix G2).

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Figure 5: Vegetation Communities within the site (above) and Figure 6: Threatened Ecosystems (below)

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Socio-economic characteristics

The proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd small-scale diamond mining endeavour is on 1.5 hectares of the 50 hectare
farm of Kwaggaslagte 121-1 located near the Ga-Motlatla Village, North West. This area falls under the Ditsobotla
Local Municipality, within the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and is approximately 35 km from
Ventersdorp. Sometimes referred to as the Platinum Province, North West is well-known for significant production
of this valuable commodity. The province is centrally located with excellent road and rail infrastructure to all
Southern African countries. The North West has an area of 106,512 km which is 8.72% of the area of South
Africa and has a population of approximately 3.4 million people which is approximately 7.2% of the South African
population.

The Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality is situated in the centre of the North West Province, and shares a
border with Botswana. It covers an area of more than 27,985 km, which is about a quarter of the Province. Its
area of jurisdiction covers the local municipalities of Ditsobotla (the study area is the second largest municipality
with regards to area coverage 6,477 km), Mafikeng (the capital of the North West Province 3,706 km),
Ramotshere Moiloa (7,207 km) Ratlou (4,618 km) and Tswaing (5,977 km). The principal towns in the districts
are Mafikeng, Zeerust and Lichtenburg. This is a predominantly rural region. Farming activities focus on cattle
ranching, game farming (Zeerust), and maize, wheat, fruit and vegetable cultivation. Several kinds of minerals,
including gold, diamonds, lime and salt are also mined. Agriculture and mining form the economic backbone of the
district. Ditsobotla Local Municipality covers 6,477 km that hold extensive commercial farms. Farming is focused
on livestock (cattle, sheep and pigs) and crop production (cotton, peanuts, maize, soya and corn). The agricultural
sector is by far the largest provider of employment, both skilled and unskilled, in the region. Based on the latest
available data, Ditsobotla Municipality had a population of over 170,784 people in 2012 with a per annum growth
rate of 1% equalling that of the District (1%), and the Province (3%). There are slightly more females (51%) than
men (49%) in South Africa, and the male and female proportions have remained relatively equal for the years,
2011 and 2012. The Provincial, District and Municipal gender distributions are relatively in line with National
trends. The potentially economically active category includes members of the population who are not working but
who fall under the (15-64) age group and are not able to work due to different factors like disability, not wanting to
work, students, etc. The above Table shows that within the economically active population, the percentage of
employed population in South Africa and the North West Province is 67% and 69% respectively, while the
remaining 33% and 31% are unemployed. The Ngaka Modiri Molema District and Ditsobotla Municipality have
employment rates of 62% and 72% of the economically active population being employed respectively, while 38%
and 28% of the economic active population is respectively unemployed.

Table 1: Economically active population and employment status, 2012 (Ditsobotla LED Strategy, 2016)

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

In 2012, the community services sector by far made the largest contribution to the employment in Ditsobotla Municipality,
absorbing more than a quarter (26%) of the local employment (Figure 7). The share of contribution from this sector to
employment is slightly larger than the share of the same sector to the contribution of GDPR. This indicates that, while the
wholesale and trade industry remains an important economic sector for the Municipality, it is an even more important
sector in terms of supplying a large number of jobs opportunities. Trade (14%) and agriculture (18%) sectors also made
significant contributions to local employment. The agriculture sector is a large employment creator. However, the
agriculture sector is a far smaller GVA R contributor. This indicates that, while the agriculture sector is an important job
creating sector for the Municipality, it is not supplying high paid job opportunities and it is not contributing equally to the
economic contribution of the economy.

Figure 7: Sectoral Percentage distribution of employment, 2012 (Ditsobotla LED Strategy, 2016)

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Cultural Heritage

The site lies in a rural area just west of a village. There are no roads, power lines or any other infrastructure in
the general area. The farmland in the broader region is mostly used for livestock grazing. The National Cultural
History Museum (1995) conducted a broad survey of a large area to the north of Lichtenburg. They report on the
presence of Early Stone Age (ESA) artefacts at the diamond mines, while Van Schalkwyk (2008) notes that ESA
and Middle Stone Age (MSA) artefacts have been unearthed in the various diamond mines of the area and are
also sometimes found along river courses. Further west, the gravels of the lower Vaal River are very well known
for the ESA material and fossil animal bones that they have produced (Cooke 1949; Goodwin 1928; Klein 1988;
Peringuey 1911). Whether the same degree of archaeological and fossil material might be present further east in
palaeo-river channels is not known, but at least some artefactual material has been collected from the region
(Mitchell 2002; Peringuey 1911). The National Cultural History Museum (1995) also noted the existence of
earlier mining settlements near Lichtenburg with one (Carlisonia) having been reduced to rubble and another
(Grasfontein) being represented solely by its general dealers shop. In a more detailed survey of a site just north
of Lichtenburg, Hutten (2012) was unable to locate any heritage resources. Van Schalkwyk (2008), too, found no
Stone Age material on his linear survey extending north-westwards from Lichtenburg through Bakerville. We do
know, however, that Later Stone Age (LSA) engravings do occur on dolomitic rocks in the general area (Willcox
1963; Figure 8). The Gestoptefontein-Driekuil Complex is a well-known set of engraving sites occurring some
110 km to the southwest of the study area and that include both Stone Age and historical imagery (Hollman
2011). Iron Age archaeology is well-known to occur in the general region, although the lack of suitable building
rock in the area is the likely reason why kraal structures have not been recorded here. Mason (1968:172) noted
that Iron Age settlers avoided extensive grasslands such as the grasslands of the western Karoo Highveld on
the Lichtenburg Plain, possibly because of the rarity of surface streams and low relief which denied water and
natural topographic protection to settlers in such territory.

Lichtenburg was a farming community that developed during the latter half of the nineteenth century. The town
itself was established in 1873. The nearby village of Bakerville lies at the site of the early twentieth century
diamond diggings. Lichtenburg saw action during the South African War (a.k.a. Anglo-Boer War). The town was
a strategic position and was held by both the Boer and British forces in turn. Colonel Robert Baden-Powell led a
rd
large British force to secure the town and surrounding territory in November 1900, but on Sunday 3 March
1901 some 400 Boers under the joint commands of Generals De la Rey, Smuts, Celliers, Vermaas and Lemmer
attacked the town. This was the Battle of Lichtenburg. Fourteen Boers and eighteen British were killed, while 38
Boers and 24 British were wounded (Van Vuuren 2015).

The first diamond to be discovered in the area was found in 1924 on the farm Elandsputte by John Voorendyk
when digging a hole to construct a cattle dip. However, the State Geologist at the time, Dr Harger, was
unconvinced of the nature of the deposits and it was only two years later when diamonds were again discovered
in the area that Dr Harger commenced prospecting. Ironically, and due to a navigational error on his part
subsequent work by him was carried out on part of Elandsputte and his rich findings there precipitated the 1926
Lichtenburg diamond rush (Smith 2006). Voorendyks cattle dip was declared a National Monument (now a
Provincial Heritage Site [PHS]) in 1980 (SAHRA n.d.). Aerial photography shows that the area around the
th
present site has not been subjected to very much early 209 century excavation as compared to the region
closer to Lichtenburg.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Figure 8: Extract of a map showing the distribution of rock engravings (\\\) and paintings (///) in South Africa. The
present study area lies to the southwest of Site 16 on the map (red oval). Source: Willcox (1963: fig. 2).

The National Cultural History Museum (1995) noted that the historic diamond mining landscape was constantly
changing as a result of people reworking old mine dumps and sometimes using the material to refill old mine pits. The
area was also found to be littered with old equipment and machinery, while a variety of corrugated iron structures
dating to the old mining days were also noted. The National Cultural History Museum (1995) also recorded a number
of cemeteries in the area near Lichtenburg. These were for either black or white people and were generally in very
poor condition.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

(b) Description of the current land uses.

This Section details the varying land uses located within and surrounding the Study Area.

Residential

As previously stated the village of Ga-Motlala surrounds the Project Site. Some rural residential dwellings / villages
and farm worker residences are scattered throughout the Study Area.

Agriculture

The agricultural land uses surrounding the Project Site predominantly comprise grazing fields with smaller sections
of subsistence farming (maize crops). The majority of the area over the last 20 years has been under agriculture
(crop fields).

Tourism

There are no known tourist facilities located within the Study Area.

Transportation Systems

The Study Area is accessed via the R53 North from Ventersdorp, from there, an unnamed road (2603'44.7"S
2637'35.8"E) runs through the Ga-Motlala village arriving at a fork, which is where the entrance to the site is
located. That will be the main access road to the site. Other roads include the local farm and mine roads.

Mining

The area was first inhabited during a diamond rush in 1926, but is now dominated by the production of maize, cattle
and cement. Alluvial diamonds are still mined in the area from the proposed mine towards Ventersdorp.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

(c) Description of specific environmental features and infrastructure on


the site.

The following specific environmental features and/or infrastructure have been identified within the footprint of the
proposed main adit and overland conveyor:

Regional and Local Vegetation & Wetlands

The study area is situated in the Grassland Biome, and more specifically the Gh 15 Carletonville Dolomite Grassland
(Figure 5-4), as classified by Mucina & Rutherford (2006). The Grassland Biome is found primarily on the high central
plateau of South Africa. The majority of plant species within grasslands are non-grassy herbs (forbs), most of which
are perennial plants with large underground storage structures. Frost, fire and grazing maintain the herbaceous grass
and forb layer, and ultimately prevent the establishment of tall woody plants (Tainton, 1999).

This vegetation unit occurs on slightly undulating plains dissected by prominent rocky chert ridges. Species-rich
grasslands forming a complex mosaic pattern dominated by many species (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

From the field investigations the study area was predominantly flat to slightly undulating with very homogenous
vegetation structure. The majority of the site was transformed through previous mining (excavation) and agricultural
practices. Therefore only slight variations in vegetation structure could be seen with the following habitat groups being
defined:
Natural habitat pockets
o Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland
Transformed - Open pit
Transformed
o Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky Grassland (Past Farming)
o Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in recovery)

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Figure 9: Regional Vegetation and Land Types in the Study Area


Figure 10: National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas in the Study Area

13
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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Site Infrastructure

Currently no infrastructure exists on site apart from the previously mined area (1.5 ha) and the existing gravel
road which will need to be graded and upgraded slightly. No settlements will be displaced due to this
development and the nearest community point is approximately 3 km from the mine site.

(d) Environmental and current land use map.


(Show all environmental, and current land use features)

An environmental and current land use map has been attached as Appendix D.

ii) Impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance,


consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including
the degree to which these impacts
(Provide a list of the potential impacts identified of the activities described in the initial site layout that will
be undertaken, as informed by both the typical known impacts of such activities, and as informed by the
consultations with affected parties together with the significance, probability, and duration of the impacts.
Please indicate the extent to which they can be reversed, the extent to which they may cause
irreplaceable loss of resources, and can be avoided, managed or mitigated).

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Table 1 below provides a thorough assessment of the potential impacts associated with the proposed
development. This impact assessment matrix includes the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and
probability of the impacts as well as the degree to which these impacts can be mitigated, and significance before
and after mitigation. The key at the bottom of the table describes each aspects of the matrix. The impacts
described below have been informed by the specialist studies, as well as expertise in the impact assessment field.
The methodology used to inform the contents of this matrix are described in section (vi) below.

Note: This impact assessment matrix has been informed by the public comments on the Draft Report.

14
Table 1: Impact Assessment Matrix for the Proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Project

Phase where
impact is Irreplaceabili Can impact Significance
Significance of
Nature of most ty of Can be of residual Ranking of
Stat impact/risk Reversibility of Potential mitigation
Impact pathway potential anticipated2 Extent3 Duration4 Consequence Probability receiving impact be managed risk/impact impact/
us1 = consequence impact measures
impact/risk environment/ avoided? or (after risk
O& x probability
C D resource mitigated? mitigation)
M
Habitat and
Rehabilitation
loss of
Programme and
species of
Site Long-term Substantial Very likely High No Moderate x ensuring workers are Low 4
Conservation
Clearing of aware on the site
Importance
vegetation boundary.
(CI)
Exposed soil
Medium- Erosion Management
susceptible to Site Moderate Likely Low Yes Low x Very low 5
term Plan (EMPr)
erosion
Fauna and Alien plant
Yes (rehab after
Flora Disturbance of invasions in Plant Search and
Site Long-term Severe Very likely High decommissioning Low x Low 4
soils disturbed Rescue (EMPr)
)
areas
Align powerline
faunal routes to existing
Mortality and Local/regional routes so as to
Fauna Displacement (powerline Long-term Substantial Likely Moderate No Moderate x x concentrate the Low 4
(including CI route) impact in one area,
species) making the risk lower
for the birds.
Contaminatio
Pollution
Spills, pollution n of Local/regional Long-term Severe Likely High No Low Moderate 3
management (EMPr)
groundwater
Adaptive project
Altered
Yes (rehab after design to avoid
hydrological
Water runoff Local Permanent Substantial Likely Moderate decommissioning Low x watercourses; Storm Low 4
regimes and
) Water Management
water quality
Plan (EMPr)
Groundwater
monitoring network
Impact on
(both quality and
available
quantity) should be
Geo- groundwater
established in
hydrology resources and
Increase in use of Medium- association with the
water levels Local/regional Substantial Likely Moderate No Moderate x Low 4
water term DWS and
in the area,
surrounding small
even during
scale diamond mines
drought
in the Ga-Motlatla
conditions.
and northwest
Ventersdorp area.
Leaks, acid Proper set up and
mine maintenance of
Groundwater Medium-
drainage and Local/regional Substantial Likely Moderate No Moderate structures to avoid Low 4
quality term
pollution leaks and spillages.
impacting the Regular water quality

1
Status: Positive (+) ; Negative (-)
2
Construction (C ); Operation and Maintenance (O&M); Decommissioning (D)
3
Site; Local (<10 km); Regional (<100); National; International
4
Very short-term (instantaneous); Short-term (<1yr); Medium-term (1-10 yrs); Long-term (project duration); Permanent (beyond project decommissioning)
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Phase where Significance of Irreplaceabili Can impact Significance


Nature of Can Ranking of
Stat impact is 3 4 impact/risk Reversibility of ty of be Potential mitigation of residual
Impact pathway potential Extent Duration Consequence Probability impact be impact/
us1 most = consequence impact receiving managed measures risk/impact
impact/risk avoided? risk
anticipated2 x probability environment/ or (after
quality of the resource mitigated? monitoring. mitigation)
groundwater
Disruption of
social fabric
(e.g. crime) Locals first
Influx of people
and pressure Regional Short-term Moderate Very likely Low Yes Low x employment policy; Very low 5
(jobseekers)
on available Complaints register
services (e.g.
housing)
Labour required Locals first
for project Employment High employment policy High 2
+ Regional Short-term Moderate Likely Yes Low x
development and opportunities (positive) considering the skills (positive) (positive)
operation are adequate
Social Increase in
traffic and Trucking minimised
Traffic operations pressure on Local/regional Long-term Moderate Likely Moderate No Low x and kept to normal Low 4
the road operational hours
network
Proper training,
High risk Health and Safety
work precautions in place
Health and safety
environment Site Permanent Severe Unlikely Moderate No High and routing Low 4
of workers
causing injury maintenance of
and/or death equipment as per the
EMPr
Air Quality Keep within
disturbance due to Decrease in regulated acceptable
Local &
emissions from the quality of Long-term Substantial Unlikely Low No Low x emissions standards Very Low 5
regional
operations and the air & consider
trucks cumulative impacts
Air Quality Use of grey water for
Increase in
dust spraying and
road traffic
wetting, proper
Dust generation on dirt roads _ Site Short-term Moderate Very likely Moderate No Low No Yes Low 4
grading of roads and
causing dust
keeping traffic to a
generation
reasonable level

Project
expenditure (incl. Investment
direct capital and growth High High 2
+ Regional Long-term Severe Very likely Yes Moderate x None
investment, and in local (positive) (positive) (positive)
compulsory social economy
investment)
Economic
Proper construction
Development of Decreased and management;
the proposed property Regional Long-term Slight Unlikely Very low Yes High minimise other Very low 5
project values potential impacts
(e.g. tourism)
Buffer Zone Long term
Land Will only be utilizing 5
around Local (while Slight Very likely Very low Yes Low x x Very low 5
Sterilization ha of the farm
development facility is

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Phase where Significance of Irreplaceabili Can impact Significance


Nature of Can Ranking of
Stat impact is 3 4 impact/risk Reversibility of ty of be Potential mitigation of residual
Impact pathway potential Extent Duration Consequence Probability impact be impact/
us1 most = consequence impact receiving managed measures risk/impact
impact/risk avoided? risk
anticipated2 x probability environment/ or (after
operational resource mitigated? mitigation)
)
Noise disturbance
Disruption to Adaptive project
during
surroundings design to avoid
Noise construction, Local Long-term Severe Likely Moderate No High x Moderate 3
due to noise excessive noise
operation and
levels disturbance
decommissioning
Visual intrusion of
the project during Transformed
Maintain appearance
Visual construction, visual Regional Long-term Moderate Very likely Moderate No Low x x Moderate 3
of physical structures
operation and landscape
decommissioning
Gas explosions,
Routine
leakages,
Fuel related Local & maintenance, safety
Risk Factors poisoning etc. Permanent Severe Very unlikely Moderate No Low x Low 4
accidents Regional measure, good
during all phases
technology (EMPr)
of the project
Ensure emission
Increase in
levels are managed
harmful emissions local, regional
Climate and the air quality of
and Greenhouse Air emissions _ and national Permanent Severe Likely Moderate No Low x Low 4
Change the area is
gases into the (cumulative)
acceptable to human
atmosphere
and ecological health
Seismic
The area where the
activity
Seismic hazards _ Regional Long-term Slight Unlikely Low No High project is located is Low 4
causing
not seismically active.
damage
Aeolian erosion
should be managed
Aeolian
during the
Erosion erosion of _ site Long-term Moderate Unlikely Low Yes Moderate Low 4
construction phase
the substrate
via proper building
techniques.
Geo-
No reports of
technical
regional subsidence
When fluid is have been reported
removed, the in the site vicinity,
load is born and lack of intense
Regional
by the _ site Long-term Moderate Unlikely Low No Low removal of significant Low 4
Subsidence
sediment quantities of water or
alone and it oil in the area makes
settles the potential for
ground subsidence
highly unlikely
Report any findings
to the heritage
Destruction authorities and may
of _ site Permanent Slight Unlikely Low No Low x require inspection by Very Low 5
Clearing the 5 ha archaeology an archaeologist or
Heritage
site palaeontologist as
appropriate.
Destruction Report any findings
of _ site Permanent Slight Unlikely Low No Low x to the heritage Very Low 5
palaeontolog authorities and may

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Phase where Significance of Irreplaceabili Can impact Significance


Nature of Can Ranking of
Stat impact is 3 4 impact/risk Reversibility of ty of be Potential mitigation of residual
Impact pathway potential Extent Duration Consequence Probability impact be impact/
us1 most = consequence impact receiving managed measures risk/impact
impact/risk avoided? risk
anticipated2 x probability environment/ or (after
y resource mitigated? require inspection by mitigation)
an archaeologist or
palaeontologist as
appropriate.
Report any findings
to the heritage
Erosion of authorities and may
cultural _ site Permanent Slight Unlikely Low No Low x require inspection by Very Low 5
landscape an archaeologist or
palaeontologist as
appropriate.

6
iii) Methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance,
consequences, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental
impacts and risks;
(Describe how the significance, probability, and duration of the aforesaid identified impacts that were
identified through the consultation process was determined in order to decide the extent to which the initial
site layout needs revision).

METHODOLOGY OF IMPACT ASSESSMENT

CSIR have developed a clearly defined impact assessment methodology. It is our belief that the
impact assessment methodology is sound and adequate to assess the potential impacts and
opportunities associated with the proposed development and operation of the main adit, overland
conveyor and associated surface infrastructure. The methodology used to assess the potential
impacts is outlined below. According to the DEA IEM Series guideline on "Impact Significance"
(2002), there are a number of quantitative and qualitative methods that can be used to identify the
significance of impacts resulting from a development. The process of determining impact
significance should ideally involve a process of determining the acceptability of a predicted impact to
society. Making this process explicit and open to public comment and input would be an
improvement of the EIA/BA process. The CSIRs approach to determining significance is generally
as follows:

Use of expert opinion by the specialists ("professional judgement"), based on their experience, a
site visit and analysis, and use of existing guidelines and strategic planning documents and
conservation mapping (e.g. SANBI biodiversity databases);
Review of specialist assessment by all stakeholders including authorities such as nature
conservation officials, as part of the report review process (i.e. if a nature conservation official
disagreed with the significance rating, then we could negotiate the rating); and
Our approach is more a qualitative approach - we do not have a formal matrix calculation of
significance as is sometimes done.

2) SPECIALIST CRITERIA FOR IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The following methodology has been provided by the CSIR to all specialists, for incorporation into
specialist assessments:

Assessment of Potential Impacts

The assessment of impact significance is based on the following conventions:

Nature of Impact - this reviews the type of effect that a proposed activity will have on the
environment and should include what will be affected and how?

Spatial Extent - this should indicate whether the impact will be:
Site specific;
Local (<2 km from site);
Regional (within 30 km of site); or
National.

Duration - The timeframe during which (lifetime of) the impact will be experienced:
Temporary (less than 1 year);
Short term (1 to 6 years);
Medium term (6 to 15 years);
Long term (the impact will cease after the operational life of the activity); or

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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Permanent (mitigation will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be
considered transient).

Intensity - it should be established whether the impact is destructive or innocuous and should be
described as either:
High (severe alteration of natural systems, patterns or processes such that they temporarily or
permanently cease);
Medium (notable alteration of natural systems, patterns or processes; where the environment
continues to function but in a modified manner); or
Low (negligible or no alteration of natural systems, patterns or processes); can be easily avoided
by implementing appropriate mitigation measures, and will not have an influence on decision-
making.

Probability - this considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and should be described as:
Improbable (little or no chance of occurring);
Probable (<50% chance of occurring);
Highly probable (50 90% chance of occurring); or
Definite (>90% chance of occurring).

Reversibility - this considers the degree to which the adverse environmental impacts are reversible
or irreversible. For example, an impact will be described as low should the impact have little chance
of being rectified to correct environmental impacts. On the other hand, an impact such as the
nuisance factor caused by noise impacts from wind turbines can be considered to be highly
reversible at the end of the project lifespan. The assessment of the reversibility of potential impacts
is based on the following terms:
High - impacts on the environment at the end of the operational life cycle are highly reversible;
Moderate - impacts on the environment at the end of the operational life cycle are reasonably
reversible;
Low - impacts on the environment at the end of the operational life cycle are slightly reversible;
or
Non-reversible - impacts on the environment at the end of the operational life cycle are not
reversible and are consequently permanent.

Irreplaceability - this reviews the extent to which an environmental resource is replaceable or


irreplaceable. For example, if the proposed project will be undertaken on land that is already
transformed and degraded, this will yield a low irreplaceability score; however, should a proposed
development destroy unique wetland systems for example, these may be considered irreplaceable
and thus be described as high. The assessment of the degree to which the impact causes
irreplaceable loss of resources is based on the following terms:
High irreplaceability of resources (this is the least favourable assessment for the environment);
Moderate irreplaceability of resources;
Low irreplaceability of resources; or
Resources are replaceable (this is the most favourable assessment for the environment).

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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Figure 11: Guide to assessing risk/impact significance as a result of consequence and


probability.

The status of the impacts and degree of confidence with respect to the assessment of the
significance is stated as follows:

Status of the impact: A description as to whether the impact will be:


Positive (environment overall benefits from impact);
Negative (environment overall adversely affected); or
Neutral (environment overall not affected).

Degree of confidence in predictions: The degree of confidence in the predictions, based on the
availability of information and specialist knowledge. This should be assessed as:
High;
Medium; or
Low.

Based on the above considerations, the specialist provides an overall evaluation of the significance
of the potential impact, which should be described as follows:
Low to very low: the impact may result in minor alterations of the environment and can be
reduced or avoided by implementing the appropriate mitigation measures, and will only have an
influence on the decision-making if not mitigated;
Medium: the impact will result in moderate alteration of the environment and can be reduced or
avoided by implementing the appropriate mitigation measures, and will only have an influence on
the decision-making if not mitigated; or

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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High: Where it could have a no-go implication for the project unless mitigation or re-design is
practically achievable.

Furthermore, the following must be considered:


Impacts should be described both before and after the proposed mitigation and management
measures have been implemented.
All impacts should be evaluated for the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of
the project, where relevant.
The impact evaluation should take into consideration the cumulative effects associated with this
and other facilities which are either developed or in the process of being developed in the region,
if relevant.

Management Actions:
Where negative impacts are identified, mitigatory measures will be identified to avoid or reduce
negative impacts. Where no mitigatory measures are possible this will be stated.
Where positive impacts are identified, augmentation measures will be identified to potentially
enhance these.
Quantifiable standards for measuring and monitoring mitigatory measures and enhancements
will be set. This will include a programme for monitoring and reviewing the recommendations to
ensure their ongoing effectiveness.

Monitoring:
Specialists should recommend monitoring requirements to assess the effectiveness of mitigation
actions, indicating what actions are required, by whom, and the timing and frequency thereof.

Cumulative Impact:
Consideration is given to the extent of any accumulative impact that may occur due to the proposed
development. Such impacts are evaluated with an assessment of similar developments already in
the environment. Such impacts will be either positive or negative, and will be graded as being of
negligible, low, medium or high impact.

Mitigation:
The objective of mitigation is to firstly avoid and minimise impacts where possible and where these
cannot be completely avoided, to compensate for the negative impacts of the development on the
receiving environment and to maximise re-vegetation and rehabilitation of disturbed areas. For each
impact identified, appropriate mitigation measures to reduce or otherwise avoid the potentially
negative impacts are suggested. All impacts are assessed without mitigation and with the mitigation
measures as suggested.

iv) The positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity (in terms of
the initial site layout) and alternatives will have on the environment and
the community that may be affected.
(Provide a discussion in terms of advantages and disadvantages of the initial site layout compared to
alternative layout options to accommodate concerns raised by affected parties)

Advantages and disadvantages of the proposed site layout compared to other layout options in
order to incorporate concerns raised by affected parties (if any) will be addressed following the 30
day public participation period of the Draft Basic Assessment Report.

v) The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and the level of
risk.
(With regard to the issues and concerns raised by affected parties provide a list of the issues raised and
an assessment/ discussion of the mitigations or site layout alternatives available to accommodate or

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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address their concerns, together with an assessment of the impacts or risks associated with the mitigation
or alternatives considered).

Please see section H (iii) for the issues and responses report and how these concerns have been incorporated
into the report. The main issues raised by I&APs needing to be incorporated are as follows:

NW READs comments (28/02/2017)

1. The probable occurrence of Red Data species on site must be further investigated and verified. Should such
species be found on site, relevant permit regarding removal or disturbance of Red Data species must be
obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries prior to the removal or disturbance of
such species.
Where incorporated: Part B EMPr: Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases (section iv).

2. The Basic Assessment Report indicates that an area of 2 hectares will be used for storage of hazardous
substance (fuel). However, the report did not specify the quantity of hazardous substances that will be stored
on site. Kindly be advised that storage of hazardous substances in certain quantities (80 cubic metres and
more /30 cubic metres for Critical Biodiversity Area) may be a listed activity which requires environmental
authorisation. In this regard, the applicant must ensure that hazardous substances to be stored on site are
below the threshold of any listed activity in terms of NEMA ElA Regulations, 2014, as this activity was not
covered by the scope of this application. All hazardous substance storage areas must be bunded.
Where incorporated: Part B EMPr: Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases (section iv).

3. The Basic Assessment Report indicates that a washing facility will be established on site; hence the report
did not describe the pollution state of water from the washing facility and details of how such water will be
managed. This information should be included in the BAR, as it is important to determine pollution level of the
mining operation, and to propose adequate mitigation measures.
Where incorporated: Part B EMPr: Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases (section iv).

vi) Motivation where no alternative sites were considered.

Motivation for the exclusion of alternatives:

1. Site location and layout alternatives

The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) commissioned the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) to run the Special Needs and Skills Development (SNSD) Programme which is aimed at
providing pro bono Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for people who are classified as special needs
clients/applicants, specifically Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), Community Trusts, Individuals
or Government Programmes. The CSIR received an application from Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd under the SNSD
Programme. The CSIR identified Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd as a client or a special needs applicant and has agreed to
assist them with acquiring Environmental Authorization for the project on a pro bono basis, including the cost
of the basic assessment, specialist studies, site visits and human resources.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is a 100% black owned entity supported by government funding. The land is being leased
to Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd by the local Tribal Council (Confirmation attached as Appendix F). Government land
acquisition offers support to previously disadvantaged individuals who do not have the startup capital to launch
their own enterprise. Thus, the site which is being investigated in this report is the only site available to this
entity and there are no available alternative sites to be considered.

The layout of the proposed project has been carefully informed by the findings of the Ecological Impact
Assessment (Appendix G2) so as to avoid removing too many species of special concern.

2. Design, technology & operational alternatives

The operating plan for the proposed project has been informed by extensive market research and an
assessment of the need of the materials to be mined. A robust economic assessment has been compiled for
the approval of this project. In addition to the economic viability, the project will be making use of a previously

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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mined area, which highlights the feasibility. The jobs being created by the proposed development will be
sourced to local communities.

The operations of this facility will be under the constant supervision of a professional consultant in the field
who has experience and expertise. Thus, due to the nature of the industry, the support structures, knowledge
and experience of Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd and the support of the local Tribal Authority, the proposed project
alternatives are the only viable alternatives to take forward to the Impact Assessment phase.

vii) Statement motivating the alternative development location within the


overall site. (Provide a statement motivating the final site layout that is proposed)

As stated in (ix) above, there will be no alternative site locations taken forward to the Impact Assessment
phase. In terms of the site layout (offices, roads etc), the parameters taken into account to select the site for
the main adit and overland conveyor included:

Environmental
Streams and rivers;
Wetlands;
Flora, fauna and vegetation;
Social
Homesteads;
Farming;
Technical
Topography; and
Access

As informed by the specialist studies conducted for this project (Appendices G1, G2, G3 and G4), impacts to
groundwater, biodiversity and heritage resources will therefore be:
1. Avoided - by locating surface infrastructure within the consolidated Mining Right area; and /or
2. Reduced through implementation of the suggested mitigation measures (see Part B); and/or
3. Remedied through rehabilitation and monitoring programmes.

i) Full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts
and risks the activity will impose on the preferred site (In respect of the final site
layout plan) through the life of the activity. (Including (i) a description of all environmental issues
and risks that were identified during the environmental impact assessment process and (ii) an assessment of
the significance of each issue and risk and an indication of the extent to which the issue and risk could be
avoided or addressed by the adoption of mitigation measures.)

The impact assessment stage comprises a number of steps that assess the manner in which the proposed activity
will interact with elements of the physical, biological, cultural or human environment to produce impacts to
resources/receptors. Section (vi) above highlights the thorough methodology used by CSIR to identify, assess and
rank these impacts in order to depict the overall impact the proposed project will have on the receiving
environment. This is described in more detail below:

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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1) Project screening and understanding the baseline environment

In order to identify and fatal environmental or social flaws that the project may encounter, an initial project
screening s conducted where all knowledge sources of the area are assessed and analysed. Site visits and
consultation with specialists will determine the possible impacts the proposed project may have, and highlights
which impacts need to be studied further. The description of the baseline environmental and socio-economic
conditions above provides information on receptors and resources that have been identified as having the
potential to be significantly affected by the proposed Project. It also describes baseline conditions that have been
used to make the assessment. The description of the baseline is aimed at providing sufficient detail to meet the
following objectives:
To identify the key conditions and sensitivities in areas potentially affected by the proposed Project;
To provide a basis for extrapolation of the current situation, and development of future scenarios without the
proposed Project;
To provide data to aid the prediction and evaluation of possible impacts of the proposed Project;
To understand public concerns, perceptions and expectations regarding the proposed Project;
To allow the proposed Project to develop appropriate mitigation measures; and
To provide a benchmark to assess future changes and to assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures.

The following specialist studies were carried out for this Basic Assessment to inform the baseline. These studies
include:
Groundwater and Geohydrology Impact Assessment Report compiled by uMvoto 2016
Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report compiled by NSS 2016
Heritage Impact Assessment Report compiled by Jayson Orton 2016

These assessments have been appended to this DBAR as Appendices G1 to G4.

2) Public Participation

The key principle of consultation is to ensure that the views of the public are taken into account and reported in
the Final BAR. The objective is to ensure the assessment is robust, transparent and has considered the full range
of issues or perceptions, and to an appropriate level of detail.

Public participation is currently being undertaken and will continue throughout the Basic Assessment process to
ensure that legislative requirements and Project standards are met, that public concerns are addressed in the
assessment and that sources of existing information and expertise are identified.

An overview of the consultation programme that has been undertaken is described in Appendix E.

3) Assessment of Impacts and Mitigation

Please see Section (h) (vi) for the Impact Assessment Methodology used by CSIR and its specialists to identify,
assess and rank the potential impacts associated with the development and operation of the surface
infrastructure.

Please note: The assessment of impacts and mitigation will be revised following input from the public and
commenting authorities during the public participation period on the Draft Report.

9
a. Assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk
(This section of the report must consider all the known typical impacts of each of the activities (including those that could or should have been identified by knowledgeable persons)
and not only those that were raised by registered interested and affected parties).
NAME OF ACTIVITY POTENTIAL ASPECTS PHASE SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATION TYPE SIGNIFICANCE
IMPACT (Including AFFECTED In which impact is if not mitigated if mitigated
(E.g. For prospecting - the potential anticipated
drill site, site camp, ablution impacts for
facility, accommodation, cumulative impacts)
equipment storage, sample (e.g. Construction, (modify, remedy, control,
storage, site office, access commissioning, or stop)
route etcetcetc operational through
Decommissioning, (e.g. noise control
E.g. For mining,- (e.g. dust, noise, closure, post-closure) measures, storm-water
excavations, blasting, drainage surface control, dust control,
stockpiles, discard dumps disturbance, fly rock, Key: rehabilitation, design
or dams, Loading, hauling surface water C =Construction/ measures, blasting
and transport, Water contamination, Commissioning controls, avoidance,
supply dams and groundwater O = Operational relocation, alternative
boreholes, contamination, air D=Decommissioning/ activity etc. etc)
accommodation, offices, pollution Closure
ablution, stores, etc.etc) PC = Post Closure E.g.
workshops, processing Modify through alternative
plant, storm water control, method.
berms, roads, pipelines, Control through noise
power lines, conveyors, control
etcetcetc.) Control through
management and
monitoring through
rehabilitation..
Manage & Control via
Soil Erosion Soils Soil Management
Measures
Indigenous Species Fauna/Flora Remedy through
Site Clearance and
Loss C High Rehabilitation Measures, Moderate
removal of Vegetation
Conservation
Management Measures
and Alien Invasive
Management Measures
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Faunal Habitat Loss Fauna/Flora Remedy through


Rehabilitation Measures,
Conservation
Management Measures
Alien invasive Fauna/Flora Control through Alien
infestation Invasive Management
Measures
Ecological process Fauna/Flora Remedy through
loss Rehabilitation Measures,
Conservation
Management Measures
Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Loss of arable Agriculture Remedy through
land/land for grazing Rehabilitation Measures,
Conservation
Management Measures
Excavation and blasting of Soil Erosion Soils Low Manage & Control via Very Low
existing mining pit Soil Management
Measures
Loss of topsoil and Soils Remedy through
arable land Rehabilitation Measures,
Conservation
Management Measures
Noise Generation Noise Noise control
measures/daylight hours
Dust Generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
O
quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Groundwater Water Resources Monitor and remedy
contamination and through Emergency
extraction Response Plan and
Stormwater Management
Plan
Visual Intrusion and Visual Measure and Control by

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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loss of sense of maintaining an


place acceptable visual
landscape and neat site.
Use of natural colours
and materials as well as
no night lighting.
Stockpiling material from Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
excavation quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Visual Intrusion Visual Measure and Control by
O Low Very Low
maintaining an
acceptable visual
landscape and neat site.
Use of natural colours
and materials as well as
no night lighting.
Discarding material from Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
excavation quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
O Very Low Very Low
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Noise generation Noise Noise control
measures/daylight hours
Construction of Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
temp/mobile site quality standards and
infrastructure: i.e. Rotary implement dust control
pan, office and staff measures i.e. spraying
quarters. with grey water
Noise Generation Noise Noise control
C Low Very Low
measures/daylight hours
Visual intrusion for Visual Measure and Control by
nearby maintaining an
community/loss of acceptable visual
sense of place landscape and neat site.
Use of natural colours

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

and materials as well as


no night lighting.
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Soil disturbance Soils/Flora
Control through Alien
resulting in the
Invasive Management
spread of alien plant
Measures
species
Grading of existing gravel Noise generation Noise Low Noise control
Very Low
roads measures/daylight hours
Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Increased pressure Traffic C,O Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Decrease in water Water Measure and control
resources due to through water
spraying conservation measures
Better quality roads Socio- Moderate
economic/traffic Moderate N/A (Positive)
(Positive)
Construction of storm water Noise generation Noise Noise control
control measures measures/daylight hours
Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
quality standards and
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
C Very Low Very Low
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Soil disturbance Soils/Flora Control through Alien
resulting in the Invasive Management
spread of alien plant Measures
species
Crushing, washing and Water use Water O Low Measure and control Very Low

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

sorting of ore through water


conservation measures
Noise generation Noise Noise control
measures/daylight hours
Health and safety of Social Monitor and follow EHS
personnel plan and implement
safety
precuations/training
Emissions Air Quality Maintain Ambient Air
Quality standards through
control measures
Trucking of material off site Noise generation Noise Noise control
and other transportation measures/daylight hours
Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
quality standards and
implement dust control
C, O, D Moderate Low
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Storage of diesel and Potential water Water/Soil quality Monitor and remedy
vehicle/machinery and/or soil through Emergency
maintenance equipment. contamination Response Plan and
Stormwater Management
Plan
Health and safety of Social Monitor and follow EHS
personnel plan and implement
safety
O Low Very Low
precuations/training
Visual Intrusion Visual Measure and Control by
maintaining an
acceptable visual
landscape and neat site.
Use of natural colours
and materials as well as
no night lighting.
Water extraction from Pressure on Water Measure and control
borehole and/or tank. groundwater C,O Moderate through water Low
resources conservation measures

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Groundwater Water Monitor and remedy


contamination through Emergency
Response Plan and
Stormwater Management
Plan
Decrease in Water
Control through water
hydrological
conservation measures
processes
Non- toxic waste Increased pressure Social Measure and control
generation and disposal. on dumps/disposal through waste disposal
centres plans
Emissions, smells Air Quality Maintain Ambient Air
Quality standards through
control measures
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
C,O,D Low Very Low
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Contamination of Water/Soil quality Monitor and remedy
groundwater and through Emergency
soils Response Plan and
Stormwater Management
Plan
Demolition and/or removal Establishment and Fauna/Flora Control through Alien
of temporary spread of alien plant Invasive Management
infrastructure/equipment species. Measures
Noise generation Noise Noise control
measures/daylight hours
Dust generation Air Quality Abide to ambient air
D, PC Low quality standards and Very Low
implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
with grey water
Increased pressure Traffic Monitor and Control
on the road network through Traffic
Management Plan
Rehabilitation and Establishment and Fauna/Flora
restoration of disturbed spread of alien plant Control through Alien
areas species. D, PC Low Invasive Management Very Low
Pressure on water Water Measures
resources

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Re-introduction of Fauna/Flora
indigenous species
Re-introduction of Fauna/Flora
High (Positive) N/A High (Positive)
faunal habitat
Sense of place Social
N/A
restored

Note: Please refer to the detailed Specialist Reports appended to this Report, for the impact assessments conducted as part of this Study as
well as Sections (v) and (viii) of this report.

Cumulative impacts that may arise from the proposed project

Consideration must be given to the extent of any accumulative impact that may occur due to the proposed development. Such impacts are evaluated
with an assessment of similar developments already in the environment. Such impacts will be either positive or negative, and will be graded as being of
negligible, low, medium or high impact. Figure 6 below highlights an example of how cumulative impacts manifest in the environment due to the
impacts resulting from numerous developments on given spatial scale.

9
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Schematic diagram indicating an example of a cumulative impact

Cumulative Impacts which could result from the proposed project in addition to other projects in the area are described below:

CUMULATIVE IMPACTS: PROPOSED MOSOTETSI (PTY) LTD DIAMOND MINING


IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE PROPOSED MITIGATION SIGNIFICANCE
BEFORE AFTER
MITIGATION MITIGATION
Reduction in water availability Medium (negative) Water conservation should be practised throughout each Low (negative)
due to ground water abstraction phase.

Borehole abstraction devices should be monitored and


measured, and tanks should be inspected regularly for
leakages.
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
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Use of grey water should be implemented if possible.


Pressure on road network due Medium (negative) Improve roads if required. Low (negative)
to increase in vehicles
Implement traffic management plan and keep trucking
to daylight hours.

Increase job opportunities and Medium (positive) N/A Medium (positive)


boosting of local economy
Loss of CI species and Medium (negative) Ensure Red Data species are removed before clearing. Low (negative)
indigenous vegetation due to
other projects in the area also Submit Permits for removal of the Protected species
clearing land within the bounds of the site
Pollution of groundwater Low (negative) Ensure water pollution and stormwater measures are Very low (negative)
adhered to.

Do routine water quality tests.


Visual intrusion of the Low (negative) Ensure site is kept clean and equipment stored neatly. Very low (negative)
proposed project
Ensure site blends in with surrounding environment and
is kept within the bounds of the site.
Loss of Agricultural land Medium (negative) Create local employment opportunities. Low (negative)

Ensure land is returned to natural state after closure and


enforce proper rehabilitation measures.

Keep operations within the 5 ha boundaries of the site


only.

Maintain surrounding grasslands and monitor off site


pollution.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

b. Summary of specialist reports.


(This summary must be completed if any specialist reports informed the impact assessment and final site layout process and must be in the following tabular form):-
SPECIALIST REFERENCE TO
RECOMMENDA APPLICABLE SECTION OF
TIONS THAT REPORT WHERE
HAVE BEEN SPECIALIST
LIST OF INCLUDED IN RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE
RECOMMENDATIONS OF SPECIALIST REPORTS
STUDIES UNDERTAKEN THE EIA BEEN INCLUDED.
REPORT
(Mark with an X
where
applicable)
Heritage Impact Assessment for a Because there will be no significant impacts to heritage resources, it is X The mitigation measures, as
proposed small-scale alluvial recommended that the proposed mining project should be authorised but well as the environmental
diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte subject to the following condition (which should be included in the management programme
121-1, Lichtenburg Magisterial environmental authorisation): included in this report are
District, North West informed by the Heritage
If any archaeological or palaeontological material or human Impact Study undertaken,
burials are uncovered during the course of development then including the
work in the immediate area should be halted. The find would need recommendations provided
to be reported to the heritage authorities and may require therein. The Report produced
inspection by an archaeologist or palaeontologist as appropriate. as part of the study is included
Such heritage is the property of the state and may require in Appendix G1.
excavation and curation in an approved institution. The project
EMPr should make reference to this possibility so that appropriate
action can be taken as and when necessary.

Palaeontological Impact It is unlikely that significant impacts on exceptional, scientifically-important X The mitigation measures, as
Assessment for a proposed small- stromatolitic bedrocks within the Precambrian (Malmani Subgroup) well as the environmental
scale alluvial diamond mine on farm bedrocks will occur during diamond mining, which will focus on the management programme
Kwaggaslagte 121-1, Lichtenburg overlying diamond-bearing gravels. The karst-infill gravels are generally of included in this report are
Magisterial District, North West low palaeontological sensitivity, although rare petrified wood material informed by the
might occur here. Palaeontological Impact Study
undertaken, including the
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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

The proposed mining development is considered unlikely to entail recommendations provided


significant impacts on palaeontological heritage. Pending the potential therein. The Report produced
exposure of new fossil remains (e.g. petrified wood, mammalian bones as part of the study is included
and teeth) during excavation, no further specialist palaeontological studies in Appendix G2.
or mitigation are recommended for this project.
Ecological Impact Assessment for With the implementation of the mitigation measures suggested in this X The mitigation measures, as
a proposed small-scale alluvial report, the significance of most impacts on site from an ecological well as the environmental
diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte perspective are considered to be of Low Significance. Based on the management programme
121-1, Lichtenburg Magisterial information available to date, with the brief field scan of the site, it is included in this report are
District, North West NSSs opinion that there are no fatal flaws to the project and that provided informed by the Ecological
the mitigation set out is adhered to and that the developer shows Specialist study undertaken,
commitment to the sustainable development, NSS have no objections to including the
the project going forward. recommendations provided
therein. The Report produced
as part of the study is included
in Appendix G3.
Hydrogeological Specialist Study If the proposed mining development is authorised then the mitigation X The mitigation measures, as
for a proposed small-scale alluvial measures and recommendations associated with groundwater monitoring, well as the environmental
diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte groundwater registration and water use licensing and mining management management programme
121-1, Lichtenburg Magisterial plans captured in this report should be followed; in order to ensure included in this report are
District, North West groundwater quality and quantity of the underlying Monte Christo informed by the
Formation dolomitic aquifer is not impacted severely, and the surrounding Hydrogeological Specialist
community of Ga-Motlatla and local farmers who make use of Study undertaken, including
groundwater are not adversely affected the recommendations provided
therein. The Report produced
as part of the study is included
in Appendix G4.

13
c. Environmental impact statement

i. Summary of the key findings of the environmental impact assessment;

Key findings of the environmental impact assessment include:

The significance of potential environmental impacts can be reduced to low - very low significance with
implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring.

Impacts on the socio-economic environment and livelihoods of the community of Ga-Motlatla can be mitigated
to moderate low significance.

Cumulative noise, visual and air quality (dust) impacts are deemed to not be significant (low) when proper
mitigation measures are implemented.

It is expected that cumulative impacts on surface and groundwater quality as well as biodiversity will be
moderate - high prior to mitigation. Mitigation measures for these potential impacts include:
Application of best-practice water management after mine closure and continuous monitoring of
surface and groundwater quality.
These possible contaminants need to be managed and prevented through an effective Emergency
Response Plan and Stormwater Management Plan, as well as the development of an appropriate
Groundwater Monitoring Plan in order to reduce the significance of these impacts.
Vegetation loss is unavoidable during the activities of the proposed mining project and special care
must be taken to manage any species of special concern.

ii. Final Site Map


Provide a map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed overall activity and its associated structures and
infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site indicating any areas that should be avoided, including
buffers.

The Final Site map has been attached as Appendix D.

iii. Summary of the positive and negative impacts and risks of the proposed
activity and identified alternatives;

A summary of the positive and negative potential impacts associated with the project has been outlined in
Section l (i) above and Table 1. All impacts listed above are negative, apart from the impacts where it has been
stated positive in brackets.

d. Proposed impact management objectives and the impact management outcomes


for inclusion in the EMPr;
Based on the assessment and where applicable the recommendations from specialist reports, the recording
of proposed impact management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the development for
inclusion in the EMPr as well as for inclusion as conditions of authorisation.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
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The EMPr addresses the environmental impacts associated with the project during Construction, Operation,
Decommissioning and Post Closure Phases of the proposed project. This Environmental Management
Programme (EMPr) is prepared as part of the requirements of the National Environmental Management Act
(NEMA) EIA Regulations published in GNR 983, 984 and 985 on the 4 December 2014 Government Gazette
Number 38282, and NEM:WA Regulations published in GNR 921 on the 29 November 2013 Government
Gazette No 3708. The EMPr is to be submitted to DMR as part of the Application for Environmental
Authorisation for the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Endeavour. The objectives of the EMPr will
be to provide detailed information that will advise the planning design of Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd mining activities in
order to avoid and/or reduce impacts that may be detrimental to the environment.

The overall goal for environmental management for the proposed is to construct and operate the project in a
manner that:
Minimises the ecological footprint of the project on the local environment;
Facilitates harmonious co-existence between the project and other land uses in the area; and
Contributes to the environmental baseline and understanding of environmental impacts of piggeries
in a South African context.

The following environmental management objectives are recommended for the proposed mining development and
associated infrastructure:
Alien plant monitoring should take place after construction, throughout the lifecycle of the mine, as
well as post closure of the mine.
Monitor soils so as to avoid unnecessary erosion, and implement erosion control measures to
preserve the quality of the soil for rehabilitation.
Development planning must restrict the area of impact to minimum and designated areas only.
Monitor and prevent contamination, and undertake appropriate remedial actions.
Limit the visual and noise impact on receptors.
Avoid impact on possible heritage finds.
Promote health and safety of workers.
Limit dust and other emissions to within allowable limits.

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
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e. Aspects for inclusion as conditions of Authorisation.


Any aspects which must be made conditions of the Environmental Authorisation

Aspects for inclusion as conditions of the Environmental Authorisation:

Dustfall monitoring should commence during the construction phase and continue throughout the life of
the project.
Surface and groundwater monitoring every quarter.
Noise measurements to test and verify any noise complaints, as and when the need arises otherwise.
Implementation of an erosion monitoring programme throughout all phases of the Project.
Development of a project specific Recruitment Policy in accordance with the Employment Equity Act
(Act 55 of 1998), Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997 and The Broad-based Socio-economic
empowerment Charter for the South Africa Mining and Minerals Industry, 2010.
Mitigation and management measures described in the Ecological Report should be followed.
If the proposed mining development is authorised then the mitigation measures and recommendations
as captured in the geohydrology report should be followed, in order to ensure groundwater quality and
quantity of the underlying aquifer is not impacted severely, and the surrounding community of Ga-
Motlatla and local farmers who make use of groundwater are not adversely affected.
If any archaeological or palaeontological material or human burials are uncovered during the course of
development then work in the immediate area should be halted. Relocation of burial grounds and
graves must be in accordance with the National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999). The find
would need to be reported to the heritage authorities and may require inspection by an archaeologist or
palaeontologist as appropriate. Such heritage is the property of the state and may require excavation
and curation in an approved institution. The project EMPr should make reference to this possibility so
that appropriate action can be taken as and when necessary.

f. Description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge.


(Which relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed)

The following assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge have been made by CSIR and the appointed
specialists in the impact assessment and development of mitigation measures:

It is important to note that the absence of species on site does not conclude that the species is not
present at the site. Reasons for not finding certain species during the summer site visit may be due
to:
The small, fragmented nature of the site and disturbances from past excavation and farming activities
on site.
The short duration of fieldwork and the timing of the fieldwork, which occurred after a few months of
below average rainfall.
Some plant species, which are small, have short flowering times, rare or otherwise difficult to detect
may not have been detected even though they were potentially present on site.
Reporting including vegetation community descriptions, mapping of broad habitat types / vegetation
communities and CI species analysis. For CI floral species, Likelihood of Occurrence (LO) rating is
assigned to each species based on the availability of suitable habitat using the following scale:
Present; Highly likely; Possible; Unlikely or No Habitat available.
Cumulative impacts are assessed by adding expected impacts from this proposed development to
existing and proposed developments with similar impacts in a 20km radius.
The heritage study was carried out at the surface only and hence any completely buried
archaeological sites or palaeontological material was not readily located. Similarly, it is not always
possible to determine the depth of such material visible at the surface.
Assumptions in the geohydrology study include that there are no unidentified aquifers present, with

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

all analysis based on available data, information and specialist knowledge. Limitations to the
specialist study include that no invasive in-situ site investigations (i.e. trial pitting, drilling, testing,
detailed hydrochemical sampling, hydrogeological modelling etc.) were undertaken, and that no mine
works programme is currently available (indicating the exact mining methodology to be used on site,
potential equipment and materials to be used, infrastructure layout, areas and depth to be
excavated, and the exact amount and quality of water required for any mining processes).

g. Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be


authorised
i. Reasons why the activity should be authorized or not.

ii. Conditions that must be included in the authorisation


Based on the detailed environmental impact assessment undertaken and the proposed management measures
proposed, the EAP is of the opinion that the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Endeavour can be
granted Environmental Authorisation (EA) provided Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd adheres to the management and
mitigation measures proposed. Environmental Authorisation should include those conditions listed in Section (n).

h. Period for which the Environmental Authorisation is required.

Environmental Authorisation is required for the Life of the Project, approximately 8-10 years

i. Undertaking
Confirm that the undertaking required to meet the requirements of this section is provided at the end of the
EMPr and is applicable to both the Basic assessment report and the Environmental Management Programme
report.

The undertaking is provided at the end of the EMPr.

j. Financial Provision
State the amount that is required to both manage and rehabilitate the environment in respect of rehabilitation.

i. Explain how the aforesaid amount was derived.

The amounts were calculated according to the guideline for the Calculation of the Quantum for rehabilitation
as provided by DMR. . The mining operation will entail the excavation of pits in sections, where after
processing each pit will be closed/rehabilitated and a different/new pit will be excavated, within the 5 hectares
2
area. The open cast rehabilitation fee is thus calculated on a pit size of 5000 m .

ii. Confirm that this amount can be provided for from operating
expenditure. (Confirm that the amount, is anticipated to be an operating cost and is
provided for as such in the Mining work programme, Financial and Technical Competence
Report or Prospecting Work Programme as the case may be).

Mr. MJ Molebatsi (the Project Applicant), has confirmed that this amount can be provided for from operating
expenditure.

k. Specific Information required by the competent Authority

i. Compliance with the provisions of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) read with section
24 (3) (a) and (7) of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of
1998). the EIA report must include the:-

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

1. Impact on the socio-economic conditions of any directly affected


person. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation of the impact of the
mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any directly affected person including the
landowner, lawful occupier, or, where applicable, potential beneficiaries of any land restitution claim,
attach the investigation report as an Appendix .

The proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Endeavour is proposed on property under the jurisdiction
of the Tribal Council in the neighbouring Ga-Motlatla village, who has been informed and is in agreement
with the proposed project.

Please see Appendix F for written confirmation of this.

2. Impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National


Heritage Resources Act. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation
of the impact of the mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any national estate
referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) with the
exception of the national estate contemplated in section 3(2)(i)(vi) and (vii) of that Act, attach the
investigation report as Appendix 2.19.2 and confirm that the applicable mitigation is reflected in 2.5.3;
2.11.6.and 2.12.herein).

There are no significant heritage resources present on the site and significant impacts are thus not expected.
The only minor concern is palaeontology, but the only fossil material seen were small stromatolites that have
very little scientific value because they are very common. A Heritage Impact Assessment study was carried
out in this regard, and the applicable mitigation measures are included in this report and the supporting HIA
report attached as Appendix G1.

l. Other matters required in terms of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act.
(the EAP managing the application must provide the competent authority with detailed, written proof of an
investigation as required by section 24(4)(b)(i) of the Act and motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives, as
contemplated in sub-regulation 22(2)(h), exist. The EAP must attach such motivation as Appendix 4).

Note: Information on the preferred proposed alternative, as well the motivation for exclusion of other
alternatives has been included in Section g) and h), kindly refer to these sections above.

7
PART B

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
PROGRAMME REPORT

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm


Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

EMPr Compliance with Section 33 of the EIA Regulations 2014 and Section 24N of the
National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998):
Requirements of Section 24N of NEMA Where it is included in this
EMPr?
2) The environmental management programme must contain- Section (iv) and the columns
a) information on any proposed management, mitigation, protection or detailing the impact description,
remedial measures that will be undertaken to address the mitigation and management
environmental impacts that have been identified in a report objectives, and mitigation and
contemplated in subsection 24(1A), including environmental impacts management actions.
or objectives in respect of:
(i) planning and design;
(ii) pre-construction and construction activities;
(iii) the operation or undertaking of the activity in question;
(iv) the rehabilitation of the environment; and
(v) (v) closure, if applicable;
b) details of- Appendices B of the BA Report
(i) the person who prepared the environmental management to which this EMPr is attached.
programme; and
(ii) the expertise of that person to prepare an environmental
management programme;
c) a detailed description of the aspects of the activity that are covered by Section 1 (b)
the environmental management programme;
d) information identifying the persons who will be responsible for the Columns in Section (i) of the
implementation of the measures contemplated in paragraph (a); EMPr regarding the monitoring
responsibility, including the
requirements for monitoring and
reporting on compliance and the
responsible parties.
e) information in respect of the mechanisms proposed for monitoring The columns detailing the
compliance with the environmental management programme and for mitigation and management
reporting on the compliance; actions, and the monitoring
methodology, frequency and
responsibility in Sections (g) to
(k) of this EMPr.
f) as far as is reasonably practicable, measures to rehabilitate the Sections (g) to (k) of this EMPr,
environment affected by the undertaking of any listed activity or as applicable to the post-
specified activity to its natural or predetermined state or to a land use construction, rehabilitation
which conforms to the generally accepted principle of sustainable phase and the decommissioning
development; and phase.
g) a description of the manner in which it intends to- The columns detailing the
(i) modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process mitigation and management
which causes pollution or environmental degradation; objectives, mitigation and
(ii) remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of management actions, and the
pollutants; and monitoring methodology,
(iii) comply with any prescribed environmental management frequency and responsibility in
standards or practices. Sections (g) to (k) of this EMPr.
3) The environmental management programme must, where appropriate- The columns detailing the
a) set out time periods within which the measures contemplated in the mitigation and management
environmental management programme must be implemented; actions, and the monitoring

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Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Requirements of Section 24N of NEMA Where it is included in this


EMPr?
b) contain measures regulating responsibilities for any environmental methodology, frequency and
damage, pollution, pumping and treatment of polluted or extraneous responsibility in Sections (g) to
water or ecological degradation which may occur inside and outside (k) of this EMPr.
the boundaries of the operations in question; and
c) develop an environmental awareness plan describing the manner in
which-
(i) the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any
environmental risk which may result from their work; and
(ii) risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the
degradation of the environment.
5) The Minister, the Minister responsible for mineral resources or an MEC Not applicable at this stage.
may call for additional information and may direct that the environmental
management programme in question must be adjusted in such a way as
the Minister, the Minister responsible for mineral resources or the MEC
may require.
6) The Minister, the Minister responsible for mineral resources or an MEC Not applicable at this stage.
may at any time after he or she has approved an application for an
environmental authorisation approve an amended environmental
management programme.
7) The holder and any person issued with an environmental authorisation- Throughout the EMPr
a) must at all times give effect to the general objectives of integrated
environmental management laid down in section 23;
b) must consider, investigate, assess and communicate the impact of his
or her prospecting or mining on the environment;
c) must manage all environmental impacts
(i) in accordance with his or her approved environmental
management programme, where appropriate; and
(ii) as an integral part of the prospecting or mining, exploration or
production operation, unless the Minister responsible for mineral
resources directs otherwise;
d) must monitor and audit compliance with the requirements of the
environmental management programme;
e) must, as far as is reasonably practicable, rehabilitate the environment
affected by the prospecting or mining operations to its natural or
predetermined state or to a land use which conforms to the generally
accepted principle of sustainable development; and
f) is responsible for any environmental damage, pollution, pumping and
treatment of polluted or extraneous water or ecological degradation as
a result of his or her operations to which such right, permit or
environmental authorisation relates.
8) Notwithstanding the Companies Act, 2008 (Act No. 71 of 2008), or the Section 1 (a) details the
Close Corporations Act, 1984 (Act No. 69 of 1984), the directors of a responsibility of the Project
company or members of a close corporation are jointly and severally liable Applicant.
for any negative impact on the environment, whether advertently or
inadvertently caused by the company or close corporation which they
represent, including damage, degradation or pollution.

5
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

1) Environmental Management Programme.


a) Details of the EAP, (Confirm that the requirement for the provision of the details and expertise of the EAP
are already included in PART A, section 1(a) herein as required).

The requirements for the provision of the details and expertise of the EAP are included in Part A, Section a)
and as Appendix B.

The Project Developer (i.e. Mosotetsi) is the owner of the project and as such is responsible for ensuring that
the conditions of the Environmental Authorisation issued in terms of NEMA (should the project receive such
authorisation) are fully satisfied, as well as ensuring that any other necessary permits or licenses are obtained
and complied with. It is expected that the Project Developer will appoint the Environmental Control Officer,
EHS Manager and Construction Manager.

b) Description of the Aspects of the Activity (Confirm that the requirement to describe the aspects
of the activity that are covered by the environmental management programme is already included in PART A,
section (1)(h) herein as required).

The requirement to describe the aspects of the activity that are covered by the environmental management
programme is included in detail in Part A, Section (d) of this Report.

c) Composite Map
(Provide a map (Attached as an Appendix) at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity,
its associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site, indicating any
areas that any areas that should be avoided, including buffers)

The composite plan is included in Appendix C.

d) Description of Impact management objectives including management


statements
i) Determination of closure objectives. (ensure that the closure objectives are informed
by the type of environment described)

The proposed mining area can be divided into two main areas, which is transformed and degraded land,
mostly as a result of grazing activities and possible past clearing activities that have occurred in the area. The
transformed areas contain few or no indigenous species, whereas the degraded areas are mainly made up of
indigenous species with some invasive species in disturbed areas. The main potential environmental impacts
associated with the proposed project include:
loss of vegetation and faunal habitat;
Topography and visual alteration;
Soil erosion;
Soil and water resources contamination;
Impact on water quantity and quality;

6
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

Land capability reduction;


Spread of alien plant species.

Therefore, effective and practical measures need to be implemented to prevent, reduce or control and remedy
any impacts that may be detrimental to the environment, as well as to rehabilitate the site to a desired state
similar to that of the pre-mining state. These measures include:

Rehabilitate the site in accordance with a detailed closure plan, and implement an alien invasive
management plan to ensure the establishment of indigenous vegetation.
Rehabilitation of the disturbed areas to return the site to its similar visual state prior mining.
Identify and attend to possible areas of erosion.
Implement an effective waste management plan to contain waste on site, as well as any spills that may
occur.

Please see the Ecological Specialist Report for more detail on the above.

ii) Volumes and rate of water use required for the operation.

The proposed mine plans to use groundwater in the approximate amount of 10 000 litres per day, pumped
from a nearby borehole.

iii) Has a water use licence has been applied for?

The required mine operation volume falls within the General Authorisation, in terms of water use, of the farm
portion, and therefore a Section 21 (a) water use licence will not be required by the mine.

7
iv) Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases
Measures to rehabilitate the environment affected by the undertaking of any listed activity
ACTIVITIES PHASE SIZE AND MITIGATION MEASURES COMPLIANCE WITH TIME PERIOD FOR
SCALE of STANDARDS IMPLEMENTATION
(E.g. For prospecting - drill disturbanc
site, site camp, ablution (describe how each of the
(of operation in e Describe the time period when
facility, accommodation, recommendations in herein will
which activity the measures in the
equipment storage, sample (volumes, remedy the cause of pollution or (A description of how
will take place. environmental management
storage, site office, access tonnages degradation and migration of each of the
programme must be
route etcetcetc and pollutants) recommendations
State; implemented Measures must
hectares or herein will comply with
Planning and be implemented when
E.g. For mining,- m) any prescribed
design, required.
excavations, blasting, environmental
Pre- With regard to Rehabilitation
stockpiles, discard dumps or management
Construction specifically this must take
dams, Loading, hauling and standards or practices
Construction, place at the earliest
transport, Water supply dams that have been
Operational, opportunity. .With regard to
and boreholes, identified by
Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation, therefore state
accommodation, offices, Competent Authorities)
Closure, Post either:-..
ablution, stores, workshops,
closure). Upon cessation of the
processing plant, storm water
individual activity
control, berms, roads,
or.
pipelines, power lines,
Upon the cessation of mining,
conveyors, etcetcetc.)
bulk sampling or alluvial
diamond prospecting as the
case may be.
Management and monitoring of soil Manage & Control via Daily during construction and
stockpiles. Soils must be stored Soil Management thereafter quarterly reports.
properly and revegetated to prevent Measures
erosion and to enable re-use during
Site Clearance and removal rehabilitation.
C 5 ha Guidance from a suitably qualified Remedy through
of Vegetation
vegetation specialist or horticulturist Rehabilitation Measures,
regarding the collection, Conservation
Management Measures
propagation/storage and
and Alien Invasive
transplantation of plants is advised. Management Measures
3
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Adhere to law and best practice Remedy through


guidelines regarding the Rehabilitation Measures,
displacement and relocation of CI Conservation
Management Measures
fauna

Appropriately deal with fauna


encountered on site.

Time construction activities to


minimise faunal mortality

Limit indiscriminate killing,


persecution or hunting of fauna
The planted alien invasive vegetation Control through Alien
should be removed immediately (in Invasive Management
line with relevant municipal and Measures
provincial procedures, guidelines and
recommendations) and disposed of
at a licenced waste disposal facility.
Commence (and preferably Remedy through
complete) construction during winter, Rehabilitation Measures,
when the risk of disturbing active Conservation
Management Measures
(including breeding and migratory)
animals, should be least.
Set up PM Monitoring sites in the Abide to ambient air
area to monitor dustfall, using quality standards and
method ASTM D1739: 1970 (or implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
equivalent).
with grey water
Ensure proper rehabilitation Remedy through
measures are adhered to in order to Rehabilitation Measures,
return the soil quality to its natural Conservation
Management Measures
state.
Excavation and blasting of Collection of baseline hydrochemistry Manage & Control via Daily inspections and quarterly
2500m -
existing mining pit O samples for analysis. Soil and Water quality reports.
5000 m
Management Measures

4
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Ensure that infrastructure is kept to Ensure acceptable visual


its most natural state and keep a landscape is maintained.
tidy visually ordered site.

Rubble/litter/waste removal and


disposal to be monitored throughout
construction.

Complaints about night lights should


be investigated and documented in a
register.
Implement Traffic Monitoring plan by Monitor and Control
measuring peaks in traffic and through Traffic
developing a routine network for road Management Plan
use in order to maintain traffic flow.
There are limited aliens on site so Alien invasive vegetation
mechanical removal of any alien monitoring and control
species during clearing of vegetation through Alien Invasive
Management Plan
would be possible. These must be
disposed of in the correct manner.
Monitor the site during all phases for
any new emergents and remove as
necessary.
Water conservation to be practiced in Monitor and remedy
line with Energy Saving Policies as through Emergency
follows: Response Plan and
Stormwater Management
Cleaning methods utilised for
Plan
cleaning vehicles, floors, etc. should
aim to minimise water use (e.g.
sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water
systems are conducted to identify
possible water leakages
Water conservation to be practiced in Measure and control
line with Energy Saving Policies as through water

5
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

follows: conservation plan.


Cleaning methods utilised for
cleaning vehicles, floors, etc. should
aim to minimise water use (e.g.
sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water
systems are conducted to identify
possible water leakages
Stockpiling material from Measure noise levels routinely to Noise control measures Monitor daily + quarterly reports.
excavation ensure the noise levels are being must be implemented i.e.
kept within the acceptable ISO keep to daylight hours
for work and machinery
standards.
as defined in South
African National
Standards (SANS)
10103).
O 5t
Routine safety checks, safety training EHS standards to be
and Inspections to be carried out abided by.
during the construction phase to
enforce the use of respiratory
protection by construction personnel.
This must also be written into the
safety requirements of the Contract.
Discarding material from Ensure that cleared (excavated) Abide to ambient air Daily.
excavation areas and unpaved surfaces are quality standards and
sprayed with water (obtained from an implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
approved source) to minimise dust
with grey water.
generation. Approved soil stabilisers
O 5t
may be utilised to limit dust
generation.
Ensure the design of the facility is Monitor and manage
done in such a way to adequately through Stormwater
manage storm water. Management Plan
Construction of temp/mobile The Contractor must ensure that all Abide to ambient air Daily, weekly and quarterly.
site infrastructure: i.e. Rotary construction personnel are provided quality standards and
C 1 ha
pan, office and staff quarters. with adequate PPE (such as dust implement dust control
measures i.e. spraying
6
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

masks) for use where appropriate. with grey water


Ensure that cleared (excavated) Abide to ambient air
areas and unpaved surfaces are quality standards and
sprayed with water (obtained from an implement dust control
measures
approved source) to minimise dust
generation. Approved soil stabilisers
may be utilised to limit dust
generation.

Maintain good waste management


practices.

Ensure the design of the facility


compensates for good ventilation and
cleanliness.

Monitor odours regularly by


conducting assessments.
The construction site should be Monitor activities and
cleaned regularly and all construction record and report non-
waste (i.e. concrete, steel, rubble, compliance by
undertaking inspections.
packaging material etc.) must be
removed from site and disposed at a
licenced waste disposal facility by an
approved waste Contractor. Waste
disposal slips or waybills should be
kept on file for auditing purposes as
proof of disposal.
Guidance from a suitably qualified Environmental -
vegetation specialist or horticulturist Ecological Procedure
regarding the collection, /Plan
propagation/storage and
transplantation of plants is advised.
Adhere to law and best practice Environmental -
guidelines regarding the Ecological Procedure

7
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

displacement and relocation of CI /Plan


fauna

Appropriately deal with fauna


encountered on site.

Time construction activities to


minimise faunal mortality

Limit indiscriminate killing,


persecution or hunting of fauna
Grading of existing gravel The planted alien invasive vegetation Alien invasive vegetation
roads should be removed immediately (in monitoring and control
line with relevant municipal and through Alien Invasive
Management Plan
provincial procedures, guidelines and
recommendations) and disposed of
at a licenced waste disposal facility.
Commence (and preferably Environmental -
complete) construction during winter, Ecological Procedure
when the risk of disturbing active /Plan
(including breeding and migratory)
animals, should be least.
Set up PM Monitoring sites in the Abide to ambient air
C,O 2 km quality standards and
area to monitor dustfall, using
method ASTM D1739: 1970 (or implement dust control
measures
equivalent).
Ensure proper rehabilitation Rehabilitation Plan
measures are adhered to in order to
return the soil quality to its natural
state.
Monitoring water levels of the Manage through
boreholes found in close proximity to Groundwater Monitoring
the proposed mining site, through a Plan.
flow meter and water level
datalogger.

8
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Collection of baseline hydrochemistry


samples for analysis.
Construction of storm water Ensure new aliens do not flourish. Alien invasive vegetation Quarterly.
control measures monitoring and control
through Alien Invasive
Management Plan
Water conservation to be practiced in Water conservation plan
line with Energy Saving Policies as
follows:
C 5 ha Cleaning methods utilised for
cleaning vehicles, floors, etc. should
aim to minimise water use (e.g.
sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water
systems are conducted to identify
possible water leakages
Crushing, washing and Water conservation to be practiced in Measure and control Daily with quarterly reports on
sorting of ore line with Energy Saving Policies as through water water usage.
follows: conservation measures
Cleaning methods utilised for
cleaning vehicles, floors, etc. should
aim to minimise water use (e.g.
sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water
systems are conducted to identify
O 10 t possible water leakages
Ensure ground and surface water Water quality testing,
quality is not compromised by waste water management
washing the ore do routine water plan.
quality checks and implement proper
waste water measures.
Measure noise levels routinely to Noise control
ensure the noise levels are being measures/daylight hours
kept within the acceptable ISO
standards.
9
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Routine safety checks, safety training Monitor and follow EHS


and inspections to be carried out plan and implement
during the construction phase to safety
precautions/training
enforce the use of respiratory
protection by construction personnel.
This must also be written into the
safety requirements of the Contract.
Ensure that cleared (excavated) Maintain Ambient Air
areas and unpaved surfaces are Quality standards
sprayed with water (obtained from an through control measures
approved source) to minimise dust
generation. Approved soil stabilisers
may be utilised to limit dust
generation.
Trucking of material off site Ensure trucking and traffic activities Traffic Management Quarterly reports/monitor weekly
and other transportation C, O, D 10 t are kept to a schedule so as to avoid Plan.
congestion.
Storage of diesel and Ensure that cleared (excavated) Monitor waste Daily through all phases
vehicle/machinery areas and unpaved surfaces are generation and collection
maintenance equipment. sprayed with water (obtained from an throughout the phases.
approved source) to minimise dust
generation. Approved soil stabilisers
may be utilised to limit dust
generation.
2 ha and
between 10 Maintain good waste management
O and 20 cubic
practices.
metres of
fuel
Ensure the design of the facility
compensates for good ventilation and
cleanliness.

Monitor odours regularly by


conducting assessments.

10
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

All fuel storage facilities to be


bunded.
Management and monitoring of soil Inspection of stockpiles
stockpiles. Soils must be stored and erosion plan.
properly and revegetated to prevent
erosion and to enable re-use during
rehabilitation.
General waste and hazardous waste Inspection of the
should be stored temporarily on site temporary waste storage
in suitable (and correctly labelled) area.
waste collection bins and skips (or
similar). Waste collection bins and
skips should be covered with suitable
material, where appropriate
Water extraction from Reduce water usage during Measure and control Daily through all phases
borehole and/or tank. construction. through water
conservation measures
Carry out environmental awareness Control through water
training with a discussion on water conservation measures
C,O 10 000 litres usage and conservation.
Commence (and preferably N/A
complete) construction during winter,
when the risk of disturbing active
(including breeding and migratory)
animals, should be least.
Non- toxic waste generation Should the on-site storage of general Measure and control Daily waste management
and disposal. waste and hazardous waste exceed through waste disposal
3 3
100 m and 80 m respectively, then plans Quarterly reports
the National Norms and Standards
for the Storage of Waste (published
C,O,D 10 cubic m on 29 November 2013 under
Government Notice 926) must be
adhered to.
Ensure odours and emissions are Maintain Ambient Air
controlled. Quality standards
through control measures
11
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Ensure that sufficient general waste Measure and control


disposal bins are provided for all through waste disposal
construction personnel throughout plans
the site. These bins must be emptied
on a regular basis.
Ensure that infrastructure is kept to Monitor site neatness
its most natural state and keep a with regular inspections.
tidy visually ordered site.

Rubble/litter/waste removal and


disposal to be monitored throughout
construction.

Complaints about night lights should


be investigated and documented in a
register.
Demolition and/or removal of Implement Traffic Monitoring plan by Traffic Management Quarterly/bi-annually
temporary measuring peaks in traffic and Plan
infrastructure/equipment developing a routine network for road
use in order to maintain traffic flow.
Enhance the use of local labour and Labour Plan and
local skills as far as reasonably recruitment plan.
possible.
Erosion protection measures must be Erosion management and
implemented on the site to reduce rehabilitation plan.
D, PC 1 ha erosion and sedimentation of the
receiving environment. Measures
could include bunding around soil
stockpiles; and vegetation of areas
not to be developed.
Decommissioning personnel must EHS standards
wear proper hearing protection,
which should be specified as part of
the Decommissioning Phase Risk
Assessment carried out by the

12
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Contractor.
Rehabilitation and restoration Ensure that rubble and litter are Rehabilitation and EHS Decommissioning.
of disturbed areas appropriately stored and regularly plan.
removed from site to a licenced
waste disposal facility.
Ensure that normal sewage
management practices are
implemented during
decommissioning such as regularly
emptying toilets and ensuring safe
transport and disposal of sewage.
D, PC 5 ha The appointed Contractor should
compile a Method Statement for
Stormwater Management during the
decommissioning phase.
By law, remove and dispose of
Category 1b alien species on site. All
Category 2 species that remain on
site must require a permit.
7.12.1. Appropriately time demolition
/ rehabilitation activities to minimise
sensory disturbance to fauna.

13
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

e) Impact Management Outcomes


(A description of impact management outcomes, identifying the standard of impact management required for the aspects contemplated in paragraph ();

ACTIVITY POTENTIAL ASPECTS PHASE MITIGATION STANDARD TO BE


(whether listed or not IMPACT AFFECTED In which impact is TYPE ACHIEVED
listed). anticipated

(E.g. Excavations, (e.g. dust, (e.g. Construction, (modify, remedy, control, or (Impact avoided, noise
blasting, stockpiles, noise, drainage commissioning, stop) levels, dust levels,
discard dumps or dams, surface operational through rehabilitation standards,
Loading, hauling and disturbance, Decommissioning, (e.g. noise control measures, end use objectives) etc.
transport, Water supply fly rock, closure, post- storm-water control, dust
dams and boreholes, surface water closure) control, rehabilitation, design
accommodation, contamination, measures, blasting controls,
offices, ablution, stores, groundwater avoidance, relocation,
workshops, processing contamination, alternative activity etc. etc)
plant, storm water air pollution
control, berms, roads, etc.etc) E.g.
pipelines, power lines, Modify through alternative
conveyors, method.
etcetcetc.). Control through noise
control
Control through management
and monitoring
Remedy through
rehabilitation..
Please see section d (ii) Please see Please see Please see section Please see section j) of Part A for Please see section d (ii) of
of Part A for a list of section (v) and section j) of Part j) of Part A. mitigation type. Part A for a list of activities
activities to be (viii) of Part A A. to be undertaken.
undertaken. for the
description of
potential
impacts
associated with
the project.

14
f) Impact Management Actions
(A description of impact management actions, identifying the manner in which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraphs (c)
and (d) will be achieved).

ACTIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT MITIGATION TIME PERIOD FOR COMPLIANCE WITH


whether listed or not TYPE IMPLEMENTATION STANDARDS
listed.
(e.g. dust, noise, Describe the time period
(E.g. Excavations, drainage surface (modify, remedy, control, or when the measures in the (A description of how each of
blasting, stockpiles, disturbance, fly rock, stop) environmental management the recommendations in 2.11.6
discard dumps or dams, surface water through programme must be read with 2.12 and 2.15.2 herein
Loading, hauling and contamination, (e.g. noise control implemented Measures must will comply with any prescribed
transport, Water supply groundwater measures, storm-water be implemented when environmental management
dams and boreholes, contamination, air control, dust control, required. standards or practices that have
accommodation, pollution etc.etc) rehabilitation, design With regard to Rehabilitation been identified by Competent
offices, ablution, stores, measures, blasting controls, specifically this must take Authorities)
workshops, processing avoidance, relocation, place at the earliest
plant, storm water alternative activity etc. etc) opportunity. .With regard to
control, berms, roads, Rehabilitation, therefore
pipelines, power lines, E.g. state either:-..
conveyors, Modify through Upon cessation of the
etcetcetc.). alternative method. individual activity
Control through noise or.
control Upon the cessation of
Control through mining, bulk sampling or
management and alluvial diamond
monitoring prospecting as the case
Remedy through may be.
rehabilitation..
Please see section d (ii) Please see section (v) Please see section j) of Part A Please see section iv) above. Please see section iv) above in
of Part A for a list of and (viii) of Part A for for mitigation type. terms of compliance, as well as
activities to be the description of section e) of Part A for
undertaken. potential impacts compliance with legislation and
associated with the policy.
project.

3
i) Financial Provision
(1) Determination of the amount of Financial Provision.

(a) Describe the closure objectives and the extent to which they
have been aligned to the baseline environment described under the
Regulation.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd will be using temporary mobile infrastructure for its processing activities,
and therefore no infrastructure associated with the site will require breaking down or
demolishing at closure. The areas disturbed as a result of the mining operation will be
rehabilitated by maintaining the general topography, biodiversity and ecological state of the
surrounding area, ensuring that there are no remnants of the structures. The closure
objectives aim to return the affected area to a land use condition or desired state similar to
that of the pre-mining state. Closure and rehabilitation of pits will be undertaken during the
operational phase when the activities are completed in those pits, to achieve a desired land
condition as early as possible. At the end of the project life cycle, a thick soil layer will be
spread across the disturbed areas; thereafter the soil will be ripped, fertilised and re-
vegetated. Post-closure monitoring will assist in determining the success of the rehabilitation
and also identify whether any additional measures need to be taken to ensure the area is
restored to a reasonable and acceptable condition.

Rehabilitation measures and objectives will be undertaken in compliance with legislation and
policy governing the requirements for rehabilitation such as the National Environmental
Management Act 107 of 1998 and the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28
of 2002.

(b) Confirm specifically that the environmental objectives in


relation to closure have been consulted with landowner
and interested and affected parties.

This EMPr highlights the rehabilitation and management objectives with regards to mitigating
negative environmental impacts associated with the proposed mining operation. These
environmental objectives related to the closure of the mining operation contained in this EMPr
and DBAR are being subjected to a 30-day review period by Interested and Affected Parties
(currently). Contents of the EMPr with regard to rehabilitation may be altered following inputs from
the public commenting period.

(c) Provide a rehabilitation plan that describes and shows


the scale and aerial extent of the main mining activities,
including the anticipated mining area at the time of
closure.

The rehabilitation plan for the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd operation aims to mitigate the
negative impacts associated with the mining activities, and ultimately to return the affected land to
its desired land use standard. The objectives of the plan are to ensure that the condition of the
site post mining operation are suitable to and in agreement with the affected neighbouring
community, tribunal council (landowners) and the competent authority, that there is minimal loss
to the biodiversity of the area, and that rehabilitation restores the land use and capability of the
area/site.

The rehabilitation process will commence during the mining operation throughout the life of mine;
involving concurrent rehabilitation of pits when activities are completed in those pits and
thereafter the final rehabilitation will be undertaken during the mine closure phase. A more
detailed closure plan will be developed during the life of mine, prior to the cessation of mining

1
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near
Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

activities; adapted to the developed information and environmental impact status of the project in
order to achieve a site-specific closure plan.

In terms of the areal extent of the rehabilitation, Appendix C shows the site layout and aerial
extent of the proposed mining activities, depicting the anticipated mining permit area at the time
of closure. The entire 5 ha portion of the farm Kwaggalslaagte 121-1 will be rehabilitated post
closure.

(d) Explain why it can be confirmed that the rehabilitation


plan is compatible with the closure objectives.

The Rehabilitation plan for this project will allow the proposed mining operation to achieve the
following objectives:
Comply with relevant legislation and policy requirements with regards to mine
rehabilitation.
Avoid or mitigate impacts associated with the project which may be detrimental to the
environment.
Land rehabilitation to a predetermined and agreed upon state that allows sustainable
land use and capability of the site, that is to return the site to the condition that existed
prior to mining or an agreed upon state.
Cost effective and efficient closure of mining operations.
Management and monitoring of the area post-closure.

The rehabilitation plan will thus be aligned to the closure objectives and tailored to the project to
achieve these objectives. It will include information about the site prior to the mining operation
and provide information on the maintenance of resources required for the rehabilitation process,
as well detail how rehabilitation will be undertaken. It will also provide information on the
management and monitoring of disturbance to avoid or minimise detrimental impacts, as well as
an estimate of the financial closure provision. It will also include information associated with post-
closure environmental monitoring of the site to ensure that the rehabilitation plan is followed and
its objectives are achieved.

(e) Calculate and state the quantum of the financial


provision required to manage and rehabilitate the
environment in accordance with the applicable guideline.
This amount was calculated according to the guideline for the Calculation of the Quantum for
rehabilitation as provided by DMR. The mining operation will entail the excavation of pits in
sections, where after processing each pit will be closed/rehabilitated and a different/new pit will
be excavated, within the 5 hectares area.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd has allocated R500 000 to overall Rehabilitation, however, this figure will be
more closely assessed when the mining site is ready to be rehabilitated.

Refer to the table below for the Calculated Quantum Rehabilitation Financial Provision.

Notes with regards to the calculation of the quantum below:

Due to the fact that this proposed project will be using mobile and temporary structures, the cost
of rehabilitating structures does not apply. This ensures that the rehabilitation costs will be kept
relatively low compared to other mining endeavours.

2
CALCULATION OF THE QUANTUM

Applicant: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Ref No.: NW30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM


Evaluator: Date: 12-FEB-2017
A B C D E=A*B*C*D
No. Description Unit Quantity Master Multiplication Weighting Amount
Rate factor factor 1 (Rands)

Dismantling of processing plant and related structures


1 m3 0 12.84 1 1 0
(including overland conveyors and powerlines)
2 (A) Demolition of steel buildings and structures m2 4 178.87 1 1 715.48
2(B) Demolition of reinforced concrete buildings and structures m2 0 263.59 1 1 0
3 Rehabilitation of access roads m2 1 32 1 1 32
4 (A) Demolition and rehabilitation of electrified railway lines m 0 310.66 1 1 0
4 (A) Demolition and rehabilitation of non-electrified railway lines m 0 169.45 1 1 0
5 Demolition of housing and/or administration facilities m2 2 357.73 1 1 715.46
6 Opencast rehabilitation including final voids and ramps ha 0 182 063.65 1 1 0
7 Sealing of shafts adits and inclines m3 0 96.02 1 1 0
8 (A) Rehabilitation of overburden and spoils ha 1 125 016.15 1 1 125 016.15
Rehabilitation of processing waste deposits and evaporation
8 (B) ha 0.000325 155 705.36 1 1 50.604242
ponds (non-polluting potential)
Rehabilitation of processing waste deposits and evaporation
8(C) ha 0 452 242.17 1 1 0
ponds (polluting potential)
9 Rehabilitation of subsided areas ha 0 104 682.20 1 1 0
10 General surface rehabilitation ha 2 99 033.88 1 1 198067.76
11 River diversions ha 0 99 033.88 1 1 0
12 Fencing m 500 112.97 1 1 56485.00
13 Water management ha 0 37 655.47 1 1 0
14 2 to 3 years of maintenance and aftercare ha 5 13 179.41 1 1 65897.05
15 (A) Specialist study Sum 0 1 0
15 (B) Specialist study Sum 1 0
Sub Total 1 443979.5042

weighting factor 2
1 Preliminary and General 25000.00 25000.00
1
2 Contingencies 15000.00 15000.00
Subtotal 2 483979.50

VAT (14%) 67757.13

Grand Total 551736.63

1
(f) Confirm that the financial provision will be provided as
determined.

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd confirms that the financial provision will be provided as determined.

1
Mechanisms for monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme
and reporting thereon, including
g) Monitoring of Impact Management Actions
h) Monitoring and reporting frequency
i) Responsible persons
j) Time period for implementing impact management actions
k) Mechanism for monitoring compliance

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

For the purposes of the EMPr, the generic roles that need to be defined are those of the:

Project Developer;
Environmental Control Officer;
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager;
Construction Manager (Lead Contractor or Engineering Consultant); and

It is acknowledged that the specific titles for these functions will vary from project to project. The intent of this section is to give a generic outline of what these roles
typically require. It is expected that this will be appropriately defined at a later stage.

Project Developer

The Project Developer (i.e. Mosotetsi) is the owner of the project and as such is responsible for ensuring that the conditions of the Environmental Authorisation
issued in terms of NEMA (should the project receive such authorisation) are fully satisfied, as well as ensuring that any other necessary permits or licenses are
obtained and complied with. It is expected that the Project Developer will appoint the Environmental Control Officer, EHS Manager and Construction Manager

Environmental Control Officer

An independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to monitor the compliance of the proposed project with the conditions of Environmental
Authorisation (should such authorisation be granted by DMR) during the construction phase (and possibly the operational phase, depending on the requirements of
DMR). The ECO must also monitor compliance of the proposed project with environmental legislation and recommendations of the EMPr.

The ECO will be responsible for preparing the Final EMPr based on the Draft EMPr, as well as updating the EMPr as and when necessary, and compiling a
monitoring checklist based on the EMPr. The roles and responsibilities of the ECO should include the following:

The ECO must undertake periodic environmental audits during the relevant phases of the proposed project in order to monitor and record environmental

1
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

impacts and non-conformances. It is recommended that weekly or bi-weekly environmental audits be undertaken by the ECO during the construction phase.
Environmental compliance reports must be submitted by the ECO to the Competent Authority (i.e.GDARD) on a regular basis (i.e. monthly during the
construction phase or as stipulated by the DMR).
The ECO must maintain a diary of site visits and audits, a copy of the Environmental Authorisation (should such authorisation be granted by DMR) and relevant
permits for reference purposes, a non-conformance register, a public complaint register, and a copy of previous environmental audits undertaken.
Prior to the commencement of construction, the ECO must meet on site with the Construction Manager to confirm the construction procedure and designated
construction areas.

EHS Manager

It is important to note that the EHS Manager will be appointed to fulfill the roles of the Environmental Officer during the construction phase and the Environmental
Manager during the operational phase. A generic term has therefore been assigned to this sector of roles and responsibilities. The responsibility of the EHS Manager
include overseeing the implementation of the EMPr during the construction and operational phases, monitoring environmental impacts, record-keeping and updating
of the EMPr as and when necessary. The EHS Manager is also responsible for monitoring compliance with the conditions of the Environmental Authorisation that
may be issued to Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd.

The lead contractor and sub-contractors may have their own Environmental Officers, or designate Environmental Officer functions to certain personnel.

During construction, the EHS Manager will be responsible for the following:

Meeting on site with the Construction Manager prior to the commencement of construction activities to confirm the construction procedure and designated
activity zones.
Daily or weekly monitoring of site activities during construction to ensure adherence to the specifications contained in the EMPr and Environmental
Authorisation (should such authorisation be granted by DMR), using a monitoring checklist that is to be prepared at the start of the construction phase.
Preparation of the monitoring report based on the daily or weekly site visit.
Reporting of any non-conformances within 48 hours of identification of such non-conformance to the relevant agents.
Conducting an environmental inspection on completion of the construction period and signing off the construction process with the Construction Manager.

During operation, the EHS Manager will be responsible for:

Overseeing the implementation of the EMPr and monitoring programmes for the operation phase.
Reviewing the findings of the monitoring and highlight concerns to management and TNPA where necessary.
Ensuring compliance with the Environmental Authorisation conditions.
Ensuring that the necessary environmental monitoring takes place as specified in the EMPr.
Updating the EMPr and ensuring that records are kept of all monitoring activities and results.

2
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

During decommissioning, the EHS Manager will be responsible for:

Overseeing the implementation of the EMPr for the decommissioning phase; and
Conducting an environmental inspection on completion of decommissioning and signing off the site rehabilitation process.

At the time of preparing this EMPr, the EHS Manager appointment is still to be made by the proponent. The appointment is dependent upon the project proceeding to
the construction phase.

Construction Manager (Lead Contractor or Engineering Consultant)

The lead contractor will be responsible for the following:

Overall construction programme, project delivery and quality control for the construction of the facility.
Overseeing compliance with the Health, Safety and Environmental Responsibilities specific to the project construction.
Promoting total job safety and environmental awareness by employees, contractors and sub-contractors and stress to all employees and contractors and sub-
contractors the importance that the project proponent attaches to safety and the environment.
Ensuring that each subcontractor employ an Environmental Officer (or have a designated Environmental Officer function) to monitor and report on the daily
activities on-site during the construction period.
Ensuring that safe, environmentally acceptable working methods and practices are implemented and that sufficient plant and equipment is made available, is
properly operated and maintained in order to facilitate proper access and enable any operation to be carried out safely.
Meeting on site with the EHS Manager prior to the commencement of construction activities to confirm the construction procedure and designated activity
zones.
Ensuring that all appointed contractors and sub-contractors are aware of this EMPr and their responsibilities in relation to the programme.
Ensuring that all appointed contractors and sub-contractors repair, at their own cost, any environmental damage as a result of a contravention of the
specifications contained in the EMPr, to the satisfaction of the EHS Manager.

At the time of preparing this EMPr, the appointment of a lead contractor has not been made and will depend on the project proceeding to the construction phase.

3
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ROLES AND MONITORING AND
REQUIRING MONITORING RESPONSI REPORTING FREQUENCY
MONITORING BILITIES and TIME PERIODS FOR
PROGRAMMES (FOR THE IMPLEMENTING IMPACT
EXECUTION MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
OF THE
MONITORIN
G
PROGRAM
MES)

See above
description
of roles and
responsibili
ties
Site Clearance and removal of Soil Erosion Management and monitoring of soil stockpiles. ECO Compile monthly reports.
Vegetation Soils must be stored properly and revegetated
Excavation and blasting of existing to prevent erosion and to enable re-use during
mining pit rehabilitation.
Stockpiling material from excavation Indigenous Guidance from a suitably qualified vegetation ECO Collect at least bi-annually
Species Loss specialist or horticulturist regarding the during Life of Mine, and
Discarding material from excavation
collection, propagation/storage and annually post mine closure.
Construction of temp/mobile site
transplantation of plants is advised.
infrastructure: i.e. Rotary pan, office
Faunal Habitat Adhere to law and best practice guidelines ECO Collect at least bi-annually
and staff quarters.
Loss regarding the displacement and relocation of during Life of Mine, and
Grading of existing gravel roads
CI fauna annually post mine closure.
Construction of storm water control
measures
Appropriately deal with fauna encountered on
Crushing, washing and sorting of ore site.
Trucking of material off site and other
transportation Time construction activities to minimise faunal
Storage of diesel and mortality
vehicle/machinery maintenance
equipment. Limit indiscriminate killing, persecution or
Water extraction from borehole and/or hunting of fauna
tank. Alien invasive The planted alien invasive vegetation should ECO Collect at least bi-annually

4
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Non- toxic waste generation and infestation be removed immediately (in line with relevant during Life of Mine, and
disposal. municipal and provincial procedures, annually post mine closure.
Demolition and/or removal of temporary guidelines and recommendations) and
infrastructure/equipment disposed of at a licenced waste disposal
Rehabilitation and restoration of facility.
disturbed areas Ecological Commence (and preferably complete) ECO Collect at least bi-annually
process loss construction during winter, when the risk of during Life of Mine, and
disturbing active (including breeding and annually post mine closure.
migratory) animals, should be least.
Dust generation Set up PM Monitoring sites in the area to ECO Compile monthly reports.
monitor dustfall, using method ASTM D1739:
1970 (or equivalent).
Loss of arable Ensure proper rehabilitation measures are ECO Annually post mine closure.
land/land for adhered to in order to return the soil quality to
grazing its natural state.
Groundwater Manage through Groundwater Monitoring Plan. ECO Compile monthly reports.
contamination
and extraction Monitoring water levels of the boreholes found
in close proximity to the proposed mining site,
through a flow meter and water level
datalogger.

Collection of baseline hydrochemistry samples


for analysis.
Visual Intrusion Ensure that infrastructure is kept to its most ECO Ongoing during the Life of
and loss of sense natural state and keep a tidy visually ordered Mine.
of place site.

Rubble/litter/waste removal and disposal to be


monitored throughout construction.

Complaints about night lights should be


investigated and documented in a register.
Increased Implement Traffic Monitoring plan by ECO Ongoing during the Life of
pressure on the measuring peaks in traffic and developing a Mine.
road network routine network for road use in order to
maintain traffic flow.

5
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

Soil disturbance Alien invasive vegetation monitoring and ECO Collect at least bi-annually
resulting in the control through Alien Invasive Management during Life of Mine, and
spread of alien Plan annually post mine closure.
plant species
Decrease in water Water conservation to be practiced in line with ECO Compile monthly reports.
resources due to Energy Saving Policies as follows:
spraying Cleaning methods utilised for cleaning
vehicles, floors, etc. should aim to minimise
water use (e.g. sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water systems
are conducted to identify possible water
leakages
Water use Water conservation to be practiced in line with ECO Compile monthly reports.
Energy Saving Policies as follows:
Cleaning methods utilised for cleaning
vehicles, floors, etc. should aim to minimise
water use (e.g. sweep before wash-down).
Ensure that regular audits of water systems
are conducted to identify possible water
leakages
Noise generation Measure noise levels routinely to ensure the ECO Compile monthly reports.
noise levels are being kept within the
acceptable ISO standards.
Health and safety Routine safety checks, safety training and EHS Quarterly
of personnel Inspections to be carried out during the
construction phase to enforce the use of
respiratory protection by construction
personnel. This must also be written into the
safety requirements of the Contract.
Emissions Ensure that cleared (excavated) areas and ECO Compile monthly reports.
unpaved surfaces are sprayed with water
(obtained from an approved source) to
minimise dust generation. Approved soil
stabilisers may be utilised to limit dust
generation.
Potential water Monitor and manage through Stormwater ECO Compile monthly reports.
and/or soil Management Plan

6
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province
March 2, 2017

contamination
Decrease in Monitor and Management through water ECO Compile monthly reports.
hydrological conservation plan
processes
Increased Monitor and Management through water D Compile monthly reports.
pressure on conservation plan
dumps/disposal
centres
Emissions, smells Ensure that cleared (excavated) areas and ECO Compile monthly reports.
unpaved surfaces are sprayed with water
(obtained from an approved source) to
minimise dust generation. Approved soil
stabilisers may be utilised to limit dust
generation.

Maintain good waste management practices.

Ensure the design of the facility compensates


for good ventilation and cleanliness.

Monitor odours regularly by conducting


assessments.

7
l) Indicate the frequency of the submission of the performance assessment/
environmental audit report.

The Environmental Control Officer will undertake audits in compliance with the provided EMP contents and
guidelines and will compile audit reports, which will ultimately be submitted to the DMR every two years.

m) Environmental Awareness Plan

(1) Manner in which the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of
any environmental risk which may result from their work.

Mosotetsi Management has to appoint an independent Environmental Control Officer whose duty is to also
implement an effective environmental awareness plan aimed to educate workers and contractors in terms of
the biodiversity on site, environmental risks associated with the proposed development and land management
of the site. Training and/or awareness should be raised and effectively communicated prior to the
commencement of the construction phase. Training sessions should incorporate the management plans
addressed in this EMPr as well as any new information and documentation provided by the ECO, as well as
that of the Environmental Health & Safety Officer. The ECO would be the most suitable person to conduct
these training sessions, identifying sensitive environments as well as all the risks and impacts associated with
the mining operation and the methods in which to deal with the impacts in order to avoid environmental
degradation. Training sessions can be monitored by providing an attendance register indicating the workers
that received training as well as evidence of the training and/or awareness received. These sessions would
also need to be carried out throughout the Life of Mine, at least once a year, or as new information becomes
available.

(2) Manner in which risks will be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the
degradation of the environment.

Kindly refer to the table of possible mitigation measures that could be applied in section (viii) of Part A for an
indication of the manner in which risks will be dealt with.

n) Specific information required by the Competent Authority


(Among others, confirm that the financial provision will be reviewed annually).

N/A

Please note that 2 requests for comments on the Draft Basic Assessment Report were sent to the
Competent Authority prior to the close of the comment period.

3
Final Basic Assessment Report: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp,
North West Province
March 2, 2017

2) UNDERTAKING

The EAP herewith confirms

a) the correctness of the information provided in the reports X

b) the inclusion of comments and inputs from stakeholders and I&APs ; X

c) the inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where
relevant; X and

d) that the information provided by the EAP to interested and affected parties and
any responses by the EAP to comments or inputs made by interested and
affected. parties are correctly reflected herein. X

Signature of the environmental assessment practitioner:

CSIR
Name of company:

02/03/2016
Date:

-END-

4
Draft Basic Assessment Report

Appendices

Appendix A Requirements according to Appendix 1 of


GNR 982 of 4 December 2014 Scope of
Assessment and Content of BAR.
Appendix B CVs of the project team
Appendix C Locality Maps of the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty)
Ltd Diamond Mine
Appendix D Site Layout Plan and Current Land Use Map
Appendix E Public Participation
Appendix F Land ownership consent for this application
Appendix G Specialist Reports (x4)

1
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix A: Requirements according to Appendix 1 of GNR
982 of 4 December 2014 Scope of Assessment and Content
of BAR.

SECTION IN
Scope of Assessment and Content of BAR
BAR

1) A basic assessment report must contain all the information that is


necessary for the competent authority to consider and come to a decision
on the application, and must include -
Appendix B
(a) details of

i. the EAP who prepared the report; and

ii. the expertise of the EAP, including a curriculum vitae; Appendix B

(b) the location of the activity, including:

(i) the 21 digit Surveyor General code of each cadastral land parcel;

(ii) where available, the physical address and farm name; Part A

(iii) where the required information in items (i) and (ii) is not available, the 3 b
coordinates of the

boundary of the property or properties;

(c) a plan which locates the proposed activity or activities applied for as
well as associated structures and infrastructure at an appropriate
scale;

or, if it is-
Appendix C, D
(i) a linear activity, a description and coordinates of the corridor in which the
proposed activity or activities is to be undertaken; or

(ii) on land where the property has not been defined, the coordinates within which
the activity is to be undertaken;

(d) a description of the scope of the proposed activity, including-

(i) all listed and specified activities triggered and being applied for; and Part A

(ii)a description of the activities to be undertaken including associated 3 d (i)


structures and infrastructure ;

(e) a description of the policy and legislative context within which the
Part A
development is proposed including-

2
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
SECTION IN
Scope of Assessment and Content of BAR
BAR

(i) an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, 3 d


municipal development planning frameworks, and instruments that are applicable
to this activity and have been considered in the preparation of the report; and

(ii) how the proposed activity complies with and responds to the legislation and Part A
policy context, plans, guidelines, tools frameworks, and instruments;

(f) a motivation for the need and desirability for the proposed development Part A
including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred
location; 3f

Part A
(g) a motivation for the preferred site, activity and technology alternative;
3g

(h) a full description of the process followed to reach the proposed preferred
alternative within the site, including:

(i) details of all the alternatives considered;

(ii) details of the public participation process undertaken in terms of regulation 41


of the Regulations, including copies of the supporting documents and inputs;

(iii) a summary of the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and an
indication of the manner in which the issues were incorporated, or the reasons for
not including them;

(iv) the environmental attributes associated with the alternatives focusing on the
geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects; Part A

(v) the impacts and risks identified for each alternative, including the nature, Part B
significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts,
including the degree to which these impacts- Appendix G

(aa) can be reversed

(bb) may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and

(cc) can be avoided, managed or mitigated;

(vi) the methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance,
consequences, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental impacts
and risks associated with the alternatives;

(vii) positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity and alternatives will
have on the environment and on the community that may be affected focusing on
the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural

3
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
SECTION IN
Scope of Assessment and Content of BAR
BAR

aspects;

(viii) the possible mitigation measures that could be applied and level of residual
risk;

(ix) the outcome of the site selection matrix;

(x) if no alternatives, including alternative locations for the activity were


investigated, the motivation for not considering such; and

(xi) a concluding statement indicating the preferred alternatives, including


preferred location of the activity;

(i) a full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the
impacts the activity will impose on the preferred location through the life of the
activity, including-
Part A
(i) a description of all environmental issues and risks that were identified during
Appendix G
the environmental impact assessment process; and
B (iii)
(ii) an assessment of the significance of each issue and risk and an indication of
the extent to which the issue and risk could be avoided or addressed by the
adoption of mitigation measures;

(j) an assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk,


including-

(i) cumulative impacts;

(ii) the nature, significance and consequences of the impact and risk;

(iii) the extent and duration of the impact and risk; Part A

(iv) the probability of the impact and risk occurring; Part B

(v) the degree to which the impact and risk can be reversed; Appendix G

(vi) the degree to which the impact and risk may cause irreplaceable loss of I a
resources; and

(vii) the degree to which the impact and risk can be avoided, managed or
mitigated;

(k) where applicable, a summary of the findings and impact management


measures identified in any specialist report complying with Appendix 6 to these Part A
Regulations and an indication as to how these findings and recommendations have I b
been included in the final report;

4
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
SECTION IN
Scope of Assessment and Content of BAR
BAR

(l) an environmental impact statement which contains-

(i) a summary of the key findings of the environmental impact assessment;


Part A
(i) a map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity and
its associated structures and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of I c
the preferred site indicating any areas that should be avoided, including buffers;
and Appendix D

(iii) a summary of the positive and negative impacts and risks of the proposed
activity and identified alternatives;

(m) based on the assessment, and where applicable, impact management


measures from specialist reports, the recording of the proposed impact
Part B
management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the
development for inclusion in the EMPr;

Part A
(n) any aspects which were conditional to the findings of the assessment either by
Ic
the EAP or specialist which are to be included as conditions of authorisation;

(o) a description of any assumptions, uncertainties, and gaps in knowledge which Part A
relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed; Ic

(p) a reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be Part A
authorised, and if the opinion is that it should be authorised, any conditions that
should be made in respect of that authorisation; Ic

(q) where the proposed activity does not include operational aspects, the period
for which the environmental authorisation is required, the date on which the Part A
activity will be concluded, and the post construction monitoring requirements I c
finalised;

(r) an undertaking under oath or affirmation by the EAP in relation to:

(i) the correctness of the information provided in the reports;


Part A
(ii) the inclusion of comments and inputs from stakeholders and l&APs;
Part B
(iii) the inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports
where relevant; and

(iv) any information provided by the EAP to interested and affected parties and
any responses by the EAP to comments or inputs made by interested and affected

5
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
SECTION IN
Scope of Assessment and Content of BAR
BAR

parties; and

(s) where applicable, details of any financial provisions for the rehabilitation,
closure, and ongoing post decommissioning management of negative Part B
environmental impacts;

(t) any specific information that may be required by the competent authority; and N/A

(u) any other matters required in terms of section 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act. N/A

6
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix B: CVs of the project team

Minnelise Levendal (Project Leader)

CSIR Phone: +27 21 888 2400


Jan Cilliers Street Fax: +27 21 888 2693
PO Box 320 Email: mlevendal@csir.co.za
Stellenbosch 7600
South Africa
July 2016

CURRICULUM VITAE OF MINNELISE LEVENDAL PROJECT LEADER

Name of firm CSIR


Name of staff Minnelise Levendal
Profession Environmental Assessment and Management
Position in firm Project Manager
Years experience 8 years
Nationality South African
Languages Afrikaans and English

CONTACT DETAILS:

Postal Address: P O Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599


Telephone Number: 021-888 2495/2661
Cell: 0833098159
Fax: 0865051341
e-mail: mlevendal@csir.co.za

BIOSKETCH:

Minnelise joined the CSIR Environmental Management Services group (EMS) in 2008. She is focussing primarily on
managing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Basic Assessments (BAs) and Environmental Screening studies
for renewable energy projects including wind and solar projects. These include an EIA for a wind energy facility
near Swellendam, Western Cape South Africa for BioTherm (Authorisation granted in September 2011) and a
similar EIA for BioTherm in Laingsburg, Western Cape (in progress). She is also managing two wind farm EIAs and a
solar Photovoltaic BA for WKN-Windcurrent SA in the Eastern Cape. Minnelise was the project manager for the
Basic Assessment for the erection of ten wind monitoring masts at different sites in South Africa as part of the
national wind atlas project of the Department of Energy in 2009 and 2010..She was also a member of the Project
Implementation Team who managed the drafting of South Africas Second National Communication under the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The national Department of Environmental Affairs
appointed the South African Botanical Institute (SANBI) to undertake this project. SANBI subsequently appointed
the CSIR to manage this project.

7
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
EDUCATION

M.Sc. (Botany) Stellenbosch University 1998


B.Sc. (Hons.) (Botany) University of the Western Cape 1994
B.Sc. (Education) University of the Western Cape 1993

MEMBERSHIPS:

International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA), Western Cape (member of their steering
committee from 2001-2003)
IUCN Commission on Education and Communication (CEC); World Conservation Learning Network
(WCLN)
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Society of Conservation Biology (SCB)

EMPLOYMENT RECORD:

1995: Peninsula Technicon. Lecturer in the Horticulture Department.


1996: University of the Western Cape. Lecturer in the Botany Department.
1999: University of Stellenbosch. Research assistant in the Botany Department (3 months)
1999: Bengurion University (Israel). Research assistant (Working in the Arava valley, Negev Israel; 2
months). Research undertaken was published (see first publication in publication list)
1999-2004: Assistant Director at the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
(DEA&DP). Work involved assessing Environmental Impact Assessments and Environmental Management
Plans; promoting environmental management and sustainable development.
2004 to present: Employed by the CSIR in Stellenbosch:
September 2004 May 2008: Biodiversity and Ecosystems Services Group (NRE)
May 2008 to present: Environmental Management Services Group (EMS)

PROJECT EXPERIENCE RECORD:

The following table presents a list of projects undertaken at the CSIR as well as the role played in each project:

Completion
Project description Role Client
Date
2011 EIA for the proposed Electrawinds Project Electrawinds
(in progress) Swartberg wind energy project near Manager
Moorreesburg in the Western Cape
2010-2011 EIA for the proposed Ubuntu wind Project WKN Windkraft SA
(in progress) energy project, Eastern Cape Manager
2010-2011 EIA for the proposed Banna ba pifhu Project WKN Windkraft SA
(in progress) wind energy project, Eastern Cape Manager
2010-2011 BA for a powerline near Swellendam in Project BioTherm Energy (Pty Ltd
the Western Cape Manager
2010-2011 EIA for a proposed wind farm near Project BioTherm Energy (Pty Ltd
(Environmental Swellendam in the Western Cape Manager
Authorisation granted in
September 2011)
2010 Basic Assessment for the erection of two Project BioTherm Energy (Pty Ltd
(complete) wind monitoring masts near Swellendam Manager
and Bredasdorp in the Western Cape
2010 Basic Assessment for the erection of two Project Windcurrent (Pty Ltd

8
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Completion
Project description Role Client
Date
(complete) wind monitoring masts near Jeffreys Manager
Bay in the Eastern Cape
2009-2010 Basic Assessment Process for the Project Department of Energy
((Environmental proposed erection of 10 wind Manager through SANERI; GEF
Authorisations granted monitoring masts in SA as part of the
during 2010) national wind atlas project
2010 South Africas Second National Project SANBI
Communication under the United Manager
Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change
2009 Basic Assessment Report for a proposed Project Transnet Ltd
(Environmental boundary wall at the Port of Port Manager
Authorisation granted in Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
2009)
2008 Developing an Invasive Alien Plant Co-author Eastern Cape Parks Board
Strategy for the Wild Coast, Eastern
Cape
2006-2008 Monitoring and Evaluation of aspects of Project Internal project awarded
Biodiversity Leader through the Young
Researchers Fund
2006 Integrated veldfire management in Co- author Working on Fire
South Africa. An assessment of current
conditions and future approaches.
2004-2005 Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Co-author Wilderness Foundation
Wild Coast, Eastern Cape, SA
2005 Western Cape State of the Environment Co- author Department of
Report: Biodiversity section. (Year One). and Project Environmental Affairs
Manager and Development
Planning

PUBLICATIONS:

Bowie, M. (n Levendal) and Ward, D. (2004). Water status of the mistletoe Plicosepalus acaciae parasitic on
isolated Negev Desert populations of Acacia raddiana differing in level of mortality. Journal of Arid Environments
56: 487-508.
13
Wand, S.J.E., Esler, K.J. and Bowie, M.R (2001). Seasonal photosynthetic temperature responses and changes in C
under varying temperature regimes in leaf-succulent and drought-deciduous shrubs from the Succulent Karoo,
South Africa. South African Journal of Botany 67:235-243.
Bowie, M.R., Wand, S.J.E. and Esler, K.J. (2000). Seasonal gas exchange responses under three different
temperature treatments in a leaf-succulent and a drought-deciduous shrub from the Succulent Karoo. South
African Journal of Botany 66:118-123.

LANGUAGES

Language Speaking Reading Writing


English Excellent Excellent Excellent
Afrikaans Excellent Excellent Excellent

Minnelise Levendal

9
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Kelly Stroebel (Project Manager)

CURRICULUM VITAE KELLY FAYE STROEBEL (Cand.Sci.Nat)


July 2016

PO Box 320 Office: +27 21 888 2432


Stellenbosch 7600 Cell : +2782 660 1907
South Africa Fax: +27 21 888 2473
Email: kstroebel@csir.co.za

Position in Firm: Environmental Assessment Practitioner (Intern)


Full Name: Kelly Faye Stroebel
Professional Registration: Cand.Sci.Nat Environmental Sciences
Date of Birth: 11/01/1991
Nationality: South African
Marital Status: Single
Language Proficiency: English (Fluent), Afrikaans (Moderate)

BIOSKETCH:

Kelly holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Environmental Science from Rhodes University in Grahamstown.
Her undergraduate degree was a Bachelor of Science with majors in Environmental Science and Zoology. She is
currently working as an environmental assessment practitioner intern at the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR). Kelly has been the Project Manager of a Basic Assessment for the development of a sugarcane
farm for a rural community trust in KZN as part of the Special Needs and Skills Development [Programme. She has
assisted in the SIP projects including the National Wind & Solar Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and
Electricity Grid Infrastructure SEA as SEA which were commissioned by the national Department of Environmental
Affairs. On a personal level, Kelly enjoys the outdoors, traveling and SCUBA diving and is passionate about the field
of environmental science and management.

EMPLOYMENT TRACK RECORD:

The following table presents a list of projects that Kelly Stroebel has been involved in to this date:

Completion
Project description Role Client
Date
In progress Special Needs and Skills Project Manager conducting Various SMMEs and
Development Programme Environmental services such as basic Community Trusts
(DEA-CSIR) Assessments and Environmental
Screening Studies.
In progress Strategic Environmental Project member-stakeholder National Department
Assessment (SEA) for engagement and project support. of Environmental
Electricity Grid Infrastructure Affairs
In Progress EIA for two proposed Project member- Public Participation Umgeni Water
Desalination plants on the Process, stakeholder engagement and
KZN coast. project support.

10
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Completion
Project description Role Client
Date
August National Strategy for Project member- research and report National Department
2014 Sustainable Development development. of Environmental
Review (NSSD1) Affairs
2013-2014 Strategic Environmental Project member- Stakeholder National Department
Assessment (SEA) for roll engagement and project support of Environmental
out of photovoltaic solar and Affairs
wind energy in South Africa.

EMPLOYMENT RECORD:

2014 Environmental Scientist and Assessment Practitioner (Intern). Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research Consulting and Analytical Services (CAS) - Stellenbosch
2013 Environmental Education Counselor: Fernwood Cove Summer Camp, USA.
2012 Graduate Assistant: Rhodes University Department of Environmental Science.
2011 Vacation Internship: Environmental Management Department of Mittal Steel, Newcastle.
2011 Vacation Internship: Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal branch of WWF.

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION:

BSc Hons. Environmental Science (Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa)


o Honours modules including Environmental Impact Assessment, Statistics, Climate Change
Adaptation, Urban Ecology and Environmental Water Quality.
o Honours thesis: Water use and conservation by households of different economic status in King
Willliams Town
Bachelor of Science with Distinction (Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa)
o Undergraduate courses including Environmental Science, Zoology, Ichthyology, Chemistry, Earth
Science, Botany and Computer Science.
IEB Matric Certificate, 5 Distinctions (St Dominics Academy, Newcastle)

TRAINING, CONFERENCES AND PROFFESIONAL REGISTRATIONS:

Conflict Management Accredited through Conflict Dynamics (2015)


Media and Science Training Accreditation through Jive Media Africa (2015)
IAIA WC Workshop for Integrating Climate Change into EIA practice (2015)
Presented on the DEA-CSIR Special Needs and Skills Development Programme at the 2014 Annual IAIA
(International Association for Impact Assessment) South Africa Conference.
Project Management accreditation through the CSIRs Innovation, Leadership and Learning Academy
Project Management Course (2014)
Attended the IAIA Air Quality Management Workshop for EAPs (2014)
Attended the WRCs Seminar on Desalination in South Africa (2014)
Environmental Impact Assessment Training Course accreditation through Coastal and Environmental
Services, Grahamstown (2012)
Participated in the ACCESS Student Energy Summit (2014)
DEA&DP Training on the EIA Regulations (2014)
Registered as a Candidate Natural Scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific
Professions (SACNASP) (Reg #: 100151/14)
Member of the South African Affiliate of the International Association for Impact Assessment
(Membership no: 3588 )

11
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix C: Locality Map of the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mine (1)

12
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Locality Map of the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mine (2)

Lat: -26.0789; Lon: 26.5500

13
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix D: Site Layout Plan and Current Land Use Map

Site Layout Plan: Proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Endeavour

Access road (existing)

5ha site to be cleared

Offices and staff quarters

10 ft Pan Plant

Pit excavation
(existing)

Over Burden

Lat: -26.0789; Lon: 26.5500

14
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Environment and Current Land use Map: Proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Endeavour

15
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix E: Public Participation

Appendix E1: Proof of placement of newspaper


advertisements (27 November 2015)

(1) Klerksdorp Record (English); (2) The Lentswe (Tswana)

16
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
17
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
18
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
19
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix E2: Site Notices

English and Tswana: placed at the entrance to the site (27 November 2015) (GPS co-ordinates: 260430.6S, 263351.3E)

20
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
21
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
22
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
23
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix E3: Proof of Project announcement on the 25th
November 2015 and Draft Basic Assessment Report released
for comment on 30th January 2017:

A letter indicating the announcement of the Basic Assessment Process

24
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Background Information Document (BID)

25
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
26
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
27
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
28
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Comment and Registration Form

29
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Email sent to I&APs: Project Announcement

From: Kelly Stroebel


To:
BC mrabothata@environment.gov.za; SHlela@environment.gov.za; tnemarude@environment.gov.za;
ncamisile.nkabinde@drdlr.gov.za; mashuduma@daff.gov.za; kgauta.mokoena@dmr.gov.za; MohapiN@dwa.gov.za;
MuthraparsadN@dwa.gov.za; khayalethu.matrose@dmr.gov.za; MMolefane@thedti.gov.za; lfourie@nwpg.gov.za;
Pieter.Swart@dmr.gov.za; Ipeleng.Wesi@dmr.gov.za; aaron.kharivhe@dmr.gov.za; tmakhoana@salga.org.za;
mbila@nwpg.gov.za; smukhola@nwpg.gov.za; tboshoff@nwpg.gov.za; ntnango@nwpg.gov.za; cmmutle@nwpg.gov.za;
mtumane@nwpg.gov.za; okgathea@nwpg.gov.za; lmotlhanke@nwpg.gov.za; rmathebula@nwpg.gov.za;
mosadim@nwpg.gov.za; pkhrisjan@nwpg.gov.za; avanstraaten@nwpg.gov.za; leroivanniekerk@gmail.com;
snnete@gmail.com ; lesego.molotwane@gmail.com; Goitsetau123@gmail.com; gontsanat@nmmdm.gov.za;
ematjione@ventersdorp.co.za; andrew.mvundle@gmail.com ; barbersp@lantic.net; Sfoya@geoscience.org.za;
makoam@nra.co.za; stephaniea@ewt.org.za; mosotetsimj@gmail.com
Date: 25/11/2015 15:20
Subject: Announcement the Basic Assessment Process: Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining, North West
Attachments: Letter to I&APs_BID.pdf; Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd BID September2015.pdf; Comments & Reg Form.docx

Dear Stakeholder,

Project announcement
Basic assessment for the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1
near Ventersdorp, North West Province
CSIR Reference No: CSIR/CAS/EMS/IR/2015/0006/A

Please see the attached letter and Background Information Document pertaining to the initiation of a Basic Assessment
Process for the above-mentioned project.

In terms of Government Notice Regulations (GNR) 983, 984 and 985 of 8 December 2014 of the National Environmental
Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) published in Government Gazette 38282 on 4 December 2014, Environmental Authorisation
from the Competent Authority, in this case the North West Department of Mineral Resources, is required for the activities
associated with this project.

In order to register as an interested and/or affected party for this process or to obtain any further information, kindly complete
the attached comments and registration form and send to the Project Manager (contact details below) on or before the 18th
January 2016 :

Ms. Kelly Stroebel (Project Manager)

Postal address: PO Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa

Tel: 021 888 2432

Fax: 021 888 2693

E-mail: kstroebel@csir.co.za

Kind Regards,

Kelly Stroebel

Junior Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)


Environmental Management Services (EMS)
CSIR Stellenbosch
________________
kstroebel@csir.co.za
Tel. : 021 888 2432

30
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Release of Draft Basic Assessment Report for Comment 30/01/2017
28/02/2017

From: Kelly Stroebel


To: mrabothata@environment.gov.za; SHlela@environment.gov.za;
tnemarude@environment.gov.za; ncamisile.nkabinde@drdlr.gov.za; mashuduma@daff.gov.za;
kgauta.mokoena@dmr.gov.za; MohapiN@dwa.gov.za; MuthraparsadN@dwa.gov.za;
khayalethu.matrose@dmr.gov.za; MMolefane@thedti.gov.za; lfourie@nwpg.gov.za;
Pieter.Swart@dmr.gov.za; Ipeleng.Wesi@dmr.gov.za; aaron.kharivhe@dmr.gov.za;
tmakhoana@salga.org.za; mbila@nwpg.gov.za; smukhola@nwpg.gov.za; tboshoff@nwpg.gov.za;
ntnango@nwpg.gov.za; cmmutle@nwpg.gov.za; mtumane@nwpg.gov.za; okgathea@nwpg.gov.za;
lmotlhanke@nwpg.gov.za; rmathebula@nwpg.gov.za; mosadim@nwpg.gov.za;
pkhrisjan@nwpg.gov.za; avanstraaten@nwpg.gov.za; leroivanniekerk@gmail.com;
snnete@gmail.com ; lesego.molotwane@gmail.com; Goitsetau123@gmail.com;
gontsanat@nmmdm.gov.za; ematjione@ventersdorp.co.za; andrew.mvundle@gmail.com ;
barbersp@lantic.net; Sfoya@geoscience.org.za; makoam@nra.co.za; stephaniea@ewt.org.za;
mosotetsimj@gmail.com; NRStatutory@nra.co.za
Date: 30/01/2017 10:19
Subject: Notice of release of DBAR for comment: Mosotetsi Pty Ltd Mining NW
30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM
Attachments: CSIR Letter to I&APs_Mosotetsi BAR.pdf

Dear Stakeholder,
Notice of 30 day public comment period on the Draft Basic Assessment Report:

Basic assessment for the proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on Farm
Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West Province

DMR Reference number: NW 30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM

Please see attached letter notifying you of the release of the Draft BA Report to all I&APs for a 30-day
th
review period, which will extend to the 28 February 2017 (excluding public holidays). Please submit
any comments on the Draft BA Report to the CSIR Project Manager at the contact details provided
below by no later than 28th February 2017:

Ms Kelly Stroebel
CSIR
PO Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599
kstroebel@csir.co.za
021 888 2432

A hard copy of the Draft BA Report is available for public viewing at the Lichtenburg Public Library
(Nelson Mandela Road, Lichtenburg, North West). The Draft BA Report can also be downloaded
from the following website under "Special Needs and Skills Development Programme: Draft
Reports":

https://www.csir.co.za/environmental-impact-assessment
Kind Regards,
Kelly Stroebel
Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)
CSIR Stellenbosch
_____________________
kstroebel@csir.co.za
Tel. : 021 888 2432
PO Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599

31
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
32
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Proof of delivery of hard copies and electronic copies of the Draft Basic
Assessment Report to key stakeholders and Competent Authority

33
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
34
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix E4: I&AP Database

comment form
BID + letter 1 +
Physical
Company/organization Name Phone Postal Cell Email
Address

NATIONAL
Department of Mmatlala Fedsure Fedsure Building mrabothata@environment.g email + post
Environmental Affairs- Rabothata Building, Private Bag X447 ov.za
National Pretoria, 315 Pretorius Street
0002 Pretoria 0002

Department of Sibusisiwe Fedsure Fedsure Building SHlela@environment.gov.za email + post


Environmental Affairs- Hlela Building, Private Bag X447
National Pretoria, 315 Pretorius Street
0002 Pretoria 0002

Department of Takalani Fedsure Fedsure Building tnemarude@environment.go email + post


Environmental Affairs- Nemarude Building, Private Bag X447 v.za
National Pretoria, 315 Pretorius Street
0002 Pretoria 0002

Department of Rural Bonginkosi 012 312 Fedsure Building ncamisile.nkabinde@drdlr.go email


Development and Land Zulu 9351 Private Bag X447 v.za
Reform 315 Pretorius Street
Pretoria 0002

35
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Department of Mashudu 20 Steve Private Bag X138 mashuduma@daff.gov.za email + post
Agriculture, Forestry Marubini Biko Pretoria
and Fisheries (Formerly 0001
Beatrix)
Street
Arcadia
Pretoria
0002
National Department Kgauta (012) 444 Private Bag X59, kgauta.mokoena@dmr.gov.za email + post
of Mineral Resources Mokoena 3831 / 3821 Arcadia 0007
National Department Ms Ndileka K (012) 336 MohapiN@dwa.gov.za email
of Water Affairs mohapi 8234
National Department Namisha 012-336- MuthraparsadN@dwa.gov.za email
of Water Affairs Muthraparsad 8083
National Department Khayalethu 012) 444 Private Bag X59, khayalethu.matrose@dmr.go email + post
Mineral Resources Matrose 3308 Arcadia 0007 v.za
National Department Maoto 012-394- MMolefane@thedti.gov.za email
of Trade and Industry Molefane 5026
PROVINCIAL & MUNICIPALITY
Local Government & Lucky Fourie 018-388- lfourie@nwpg.gov.za email
Traditional Council 1083
Department Mineral Pieter Swart (018) 487 Private Bag A 1, Pieter.Swart@dmr.gov.za email + post
Resources North West 9830 KLERKSDORP, 2570
Department Mineral I Wesi (018) 487 Private Bag A 1, Ipeleng.Wesi@dmr.gov.za email + post
Resources North West 9830 KLERKSDORP, 2570
Department Mineral Aaron 0184879847 Private Bag A 1, aaron.kharivhe@dmr.gov.za email + post
Resources North West Kharivhe KLERKSDORP, 2570
South African Local Tikologo 018-464- tmakhoana@salga.org.za email
Government Makhoana 9387
Association: North
West (SALGA: NW)
DEDECT Nedick Bila 078-256- mbila@nwpg.gov.za email

36
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
1298
DEDECT Steven 018-389- smukhola@nwpg.gov.za email
Muklola 5959
DEDECT Tharina 018-389- tboshoff@nwpg.gov.za email
Boshoff 5656
North West Lovemore T 014-594- email
Development Makunike 2570
Corporation
Department of Local Nonkululeko 014-838- ntnango@nwpg.gov.za email
Government and Myeza 82642
Human Settlement
Department of Local Colleen 018-388- cmmutle@nwpg.gov.za email
Government and Mmutle 3598
Human Settlement
North West Mercy 018-387- mtumane@nwpg.gov.za email
Department of Tumane 7778
Finance, Economy &
Enterprise
Development (FEED)
North West Opgopleng 018-387- okgathea@nwpg.gov.za email
Department of Kgathea 7789
Finance, Economy &
Enterprise
Development (FEED)
North West Lebogang 018-387- lmotlhanke@nwpg.gov.za email
Department of Motlhanke 7795
Finance, Economy &
Enterprise
Development (FEED)
NW READ Rhuleni 018-389- rmathebula@nwpg.gov.za email
Mathebula 5122
NW READ Malefyane 081-304- mosadim@nwpg.gov.za email
Mosadi 4891

37
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
NW READ Portia 018-389- pkhrisjan@nwpg.gov.za email
Khrisjan 5995
NW READ Adriaan Van avanstraaten@nwpg.gov.za email
Straaten
Ditsobotla Local Le.Roi van PO Box 7, 084- leroivanniekerk@gmail.com email + post
Municipality Niekerk Lichtenburg 2740 931-
5705
Ditsobotla Local Municipal PO Box 7, 018 snnete@gmail.com email + post
Municipality Manager Lichtenburg 2740
633
3880
Ditsobotla Local Municipal PO Box 7, lesego.molotwane@gmail.com email + post
Municipality Manager PA Lichtenburg 2741
Ngaka Modiri Molema Goitsimosimo 073-529- Goitsetau123@gmail.com email
District Municipality Tau 2969
Ngaka Modiri Molema Thandi 072-260- gontsanat@nmmdm.gov.za email
District Municipality Gontsana 9549
Ventersdorp Local Elizabeth 018-064- Private Bag X1010 ematjione@ventersdorp.co.za email+post
Municipality Majione 8598 Ventersdorp
2710
Ward Councillor: Ga- Ward PO Box 7, post
Motlala Village Councillor: Lichtenburg 2740
Ga-Motlala
Village
Ward Councillor: Ward PO Box 7, post
Lichtenburg Councillor: Lichtenburg 2740
Lichtenburg
LANDOWNERS & NEIGHBOURS
Ga-Motlala Traditional Chief KS PO Box 90, post
Council (Landowner) Serobatse Ventersdorp,2710
Neighbouring Mr A du Preez PO Box 2309, post
Landowner- Lichtenburg, 2740

38
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Goedvooriutzicht 120
IP
Neighbouring Mr JJ du PO Box 64, post
Landowner- Grootpan Preez Lichtenburg, 2740
117 IP
Neighbouring Mr CZH PO Box 1689, post
Landowner- Corsendae Pretorius Lichtenburg, 2740
118 IP
Neighbouring Mr D PO Box 1940, post
Landowner- Corsendae Bisschoff Lichtenburg, 2740
118 IP
Neighbouring Mr J van der PO Box 954, post
Landowner- Corsendae Merwe Lichtenburg, 2740
118 IP
Neighbouring Mr HP PO Box 1133, post
Landowner- Rietpan Conradie Lichtenburg, 2740
479 JP
Neighbouring Mr H Jooste PO Box 1300, post
Landowner- Zwartrand Lichtenburg, 2740
123 IP
OTHER
North West Parks & Andrew 078-921- andrew.mvundle@gmail.com email
Tourism Board Mvundle 1916
NW Parks Board Bird Sampie van 082- barbersp@lantic.net email
Sanctuary der Merwe 443-
9777
South African National Dr. Howard PO Box 787, howard.hendricks@sanparks.o email+post
Parks (SANParks) Hendriks Pretoria, 0001 rg
Council for Geoscience Dr Stewart 280 Private Bag x112, Sfoya@geoscience.org.za email+post
Foya Pretoria Pretoria 0001
Street,
Silverton

39
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
South African Heritage Marie South PO Box 4637, Cape post
Resources Agency Town, 8000
(SAHRA)
South African National Ms Mpati (012) 844 makoam@nra.co.za email
Roads Agency Makoa 8013
Endangered Wildlife Stephanie 011-372- stephaniea@ewt.org.za email
Trust (EWT) Aken 3600
AgriLand Anneliza Private Bag X120, post
Collett Pretoria 0001
Grasslands Society of Feyni Du Toit P.O. Box 41, Hilton, post
South Africa 3245
Client Mr. MJ 11786 Nathan mosotetsimj@gmail.com email + post
Moletabsi Sidyiyo Street,
Bloemanda,
Kagisanong, 9323

40
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix E5: Correspondence from I&APs

Comments received prior to release of DBAR

41
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
42
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
43
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
44
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
45
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Comments received on the Draft Basic Assessment Report

From: "Sampie van der Merwe" <barbersp@lantic.net>


To: "Kelly Stroebel" <KStroebel@csir.co.za>, <mrabothata@environment.gov.za>,
<SHlela@environment.gov.za>, <tnemarude@environment.gov.za>, <ncamisile.nkabinde@drdlr.gov.za>,
<mashuduma@daff.gov.za>, <kgauta.mokoena@dmr.gov.za>, <MohapiN@dwa.gov.za>,
<MuthraparsadN@dwa.gov.za>, <khayalethu.matrose@dmr.gov.za>, <MMolefane@thedti.gov.za>,
<lfourie@nwpg.gov.za>, <Pieter.Swart@dmr.gov.za>, <Ipeleng.Wesi@dmr.gov.za>,
<aaron.kharivhe@dmr.gov.za>, "Tikologo Makhoana" <tmakhoana@salga.org.za>, <mbila@nwpg.gov.za>,
<smukhola@nwpg.gov.za>, <TBoshoff@nwpg.gov.za>, <ntnango@nwpg.gov.za>, <cmmutle@nwpg.gov.za>,
<mtumane@nwpg.gov.za>, <okgathea@nwpg.gov.za>, <lmotlhanke@nwpg.gov.za>,
<RMathebula@nwpg.gov.za>, <Mosadim@nwpg.gov.za>, <pkhrisjan@nwpg.gov.za>, "Adriaan Van Straaten"
<Avanstraaten@nwpg.gov.za>, <leroivanniekerk@gmail.com>, <snnete@gmail.com>,
<lesego.molotwane@gmail.com>, <Goitsetau123@gmail.com>, <gontsanat@nmmdm.gov.za>,
<ematjione@ventersdorp.co.za>, <andrew.mvundle@gmail.com>, <howard.hendricks@sanparks.org>,
<Sfoya@geoscience.org.za>, <makoam@nra.co.za>, <stephaniea@ewt.org.za>, <mosotetsimj@gmail.com>,
<NRStatutory@nra.co.za>
CC: "Molemane Nature Reserve" <molemanenr@nwptb.co.za>, "WILFRED SEITLHAMO"
<wseitlhamo@nwpb.org.za>, "Phuti Mahloko" <phuti@nwpb.org.za>, "PIETER NEL" <hpnel@mweb.co.za>
Date: 02/02/2017 09:36
Subject: Re: Notice of release of DBAR for comment: Mosotetsi Pty Ltd Mining NW
30/5/1/3/3/2/1/10446 EM
Attachments: Part.002

GOOD MORNING ME STROEBEL

1. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR INFORMING US OF THIS DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
IN CONNECTION TO THIS PROPOSED MINING ACTIVITY.

2. AS THE ARE IS SITUATED FAR FROM BARBERSPAN BIRD SANCTUARY, WHICH IS SITUATED
BETWEEN SANNIESHOF AND DELAREYVILLE, ABOUT 120 KM TO THE WEST OF THE PROPOSED
ACTIVITY, IT IS MY OPINION THAT IT WILL NOT HAS AN EFFECT ON OUR AREA [NATURE
RESERVE/ RAMSAR SITE] AND WE WILL NOT ACTIVELY PARTAKE IN THE PROCESS.

3. THE ARE IS MUCH CLOSER TO ONE OF OUR OTHER NATURE RESERVE, NL MOLEMANE
NATURE RESERVE, NEAR OTTOSHOOP. I FORWARD YOUR E MAIL TO THE RELEVANT RESERVE
MANAGER, IF THEY WANT TO GIVE INPUT ON THE ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR PROPOSE
MINING ACTIVITY.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

FRIENDLY REGARDS.

SAMPIE VAN DER MERWE

RESERVE MANAGER

BARBERSPAN BIRD SANCTUARY


Sampie van der Merwe
North West Parks Board
Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
Reserve Manager
Tel: 087 151 1770
Cell: 082 443 9777
Fax: 086 524 0873
Email: barbersp@lantic.net

46
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
From: "Moragorago Mabula" <mmabula@nwpg.gov.za>
To: <kstroebel@csir.co.za>
Date: 02/02/2017 14:38
Subject: NWP/DMR/142/2016: Proposed Mosetetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on
farm Kwaggaslagte 121 IQ

Good day,

I have received a request for comments with regards to the above mentioned project and request that
site inspection be conducted.
Proposed date and time: 07 February 2017 at 11:00.

Regards,

Mr. Sammy Mabula


Sub Directorate - Development Impact Management
Department of Rural Environment and Agricultural Development
No. 114 Chris Hani Street,
Potchefstroom
Tel: 018 299 6710
Cell: 084 028 9393
Fax: 086 632 5930

47
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
48
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
49
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Acknowledgement of Application letter from DMR

50
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
51
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix F: Land ownership consent for this application

52
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
53
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
Appendix G: Specialist studies

G1 Heritage Impact Assessment for a proposed small-scale


alluvial diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1,
Lichtenburg Magisterial District, North West

G2 Palaeontological Impact Assessment for a proposed small-


scale alluvial diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1,
Lichtenburg Magisterial District, North West

G3 Ecological Impact Assessment for a proposed small-scale


alluvial diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1,
Lichtenburg Magisterial District, North West

G4 Hydrogeological Specialist Study for a proposed small-scale


alluvial diamond mine on farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1,
Lichtenburg Magisterial District, North West

54
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd DBAR: Appendices
HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR A PROPOSED
SMALL-SCALE ALLUVIAL DIAMOND MINE ON FARM
KWAGGASLAGTE 121-1, LICHTENBURG MAGISTERIAL
DISTRICT, NORTH WEST

SAHRA Case No.: 9492

Required under Section 38 (8) of the National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999).

Report for:

CSIR Environmental Management Services


P.O. Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599
Tel: (021) 888 2432
Email: kstroebel@csir.co.za

On behalf of:

Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd

Dr Jayson Orton
ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd
6A Scarborough Road, Muizenberg, 7945
Tel: (021) 788 8425 | 083 272 3225
Email: jayson@asha-consulting.co.za

5 July 2016
ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd | Reg. no.: 2013/220482/07 ii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR) to conduct an assessment of the potential impacts to heritage resources that might occur
through the proposed establishment of a small-scale alluvial diamond mine on Kwaggaslagte 121-
1, some 38 km east of central Lichtenburg.

The site is flat and covered in indigenous vegetation, but a large excavation has taken place in its
central part. The spoil heaps from this excavation are on site. The substrate is largely composed of
gravel and rock fragments.

The site inspection revealed three small mounds of rocks located 20 m outside the eastern corner
of the site as well as one small fossil stromatolite on a fragment of dolomite from one of the spoil
heaps. The mounds of rocks were likely cleared from the now abandoned agricultural lands
occurring on the site.

The finds reported here are not considered to have high cultural significance and, as such, no
further heritage actions are required prior to the commencement of mining. However, the project
Environmental Control Officer (ECO) and/or mine manager should be aware of the possibility of
uncovering fossil wood and/or large stromatolites during excavations. Should any such finds be
made they should be safeguarded, preferably in situ, and reported to SAHRA (Tel: 021 462 4502).
A palaeontologist may need to be appointed to examine and, if necessary rescue the finds and
associated scientific data.

Because there will be no significant impacts to heritage resources, it is recommended that the
proposed mining project should be authorised but subject to the following condition (which
should be included in the environmental authorisation):

If any archaeological or palaeontological material or human burials are uncovered during


the course of development then work in the immediate area should be halted. The find
would need to be reported to the heritage authorities and may require inspection by an
archaeologist or palaeontologist as appropriate. Such heritage is the property of the state
and may require excavation and curation in an approved institution. The project EMPr
should make reference to this possibility so that appropriate action can be taken as and
when necessary.

ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd | Reg. no.: 2013/220482/07 iii


Glossary

Early Stone Age: Period of the Stone Age extending approximately between 2 million and 200 000
years ago.

Later Stone Age: Period of the Stone Age extending over the last approximately 20 000 years.

Middle Stone Age: Period of the Stone Age extending approximately between 200 000 and 20 000
years ago.

Abbreviations

APHP: Association of Professional Heritage MSA: Middle Stone Age


Practitioners
NEMA: National Environmental Management
ASAPA: Association of Southern African Act (No. 107 of 1998)
Professional Archaeologists
NHRA: National Heritage Resources Act (No.
BAR: Basic Assessment Report 25) of 1999

CRM: Cultural Resources Management NWPHRA: North West Provincial Heritage


Resources Authority
CSIR: Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research PHS: Provincial Heritage Site

ECO: Environmental Control Officer PPP: Public Participation Process

ESA: Early Stone Age SAHRA: South African Heritage Resources


Agency
GPS: global positioning system
SAHRIS: South African Heritage Resources
HIA: Heritage Impact Assessment Information System

LSA: Later Stone Age

ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd | Reg. no.: 2013/220482/07 iv


Compliance with Appendix 6 of the 2014 EIA Regulations

Requirements of Appendix 6 GN R982 Addressed in the


Specialist Report
1. (1) A specialist report prepared in terms of these Regulations must contain- Section 1.4
a) details of- Appendix 1
i. the specialist who prepared the report; and
ii. the expertise of that specialist to compile a specialist report including a
curriculum vitae;
b) a declaration that the specialist is independent in a form as may be specified by page ii
the competent authority;
c) an indication of the scope of, and the purpose for which, the report was Section 1.3
prepared;
d) the date and season of the site investigation and the relevance of the season to Section 3.2
the outcome of the assessment;
e) a description of the methodology adopted in preparing the report or carrying out Section 3
the specialised process;
f) the specific identified sensitivity of the site related to the activity and its Section 1.1
associated structures and infrastructure;
g) an identification of any areas to be avoided, including buffers; n/a
h) a map superimposing the activity including the associated structures and n/a
infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the site including areas to be
avoided, including buffers;
i) a description of any assumptions made and any uncertainties or gaps in Section 3.5
knowledge;
j) a description of the findings and potential implications of such findings on the Section 6
impact of the proposed activity, including identified alternatives on the
environment;
k) any mitigation measures for inclusion in the EMPr; Sections 7 & 9
l) any conditions for inclusion in the environmental authorisation; Section 11
m) any monitoring requirements for inclusion in the EMPr or environmental Section 9
authorisation;
n) a reasoned opinion- Section 11
i. as to whether the proposed activity or portions thereof should be
authorised; and
ii. if the opinion is that the proposed activity or portions thereof should be
authorised, any avoidance, management and mitigation measures that
should be included in the EMPr, and where applicable, the closure plan;
o) a description of any consultation process that was undertaken during the course n/a (Section 3.6)
of preparing the specialist report;
p) a summary and copies of any comments received during any consultation process n/a
and where applicable all responses thereto; and
q) any other information requested by the competent authority. n/a

ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd | Reg. no.: 2013/220482/07 v


Contents

Glossary ........................................................................................................................................ iv
Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................... iv
Compliance with Appendix 6 of the 2014 EIA Regulations ............................................................... v
1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. Project description....................................................................................................................1
1.2. Terms of reference ...................................................................................................................2
1.3. Scope and purpose of the report .............................................................................................2
1.4. The author ................................................................................................................................3
2. HERITAGE LEGISLATION .............................................................................................................. 3
3. METHODS................................................................................................................................... 4
3.1. Literature survey and information sources ..............................................................................4
3.2. Field survey ...............................................................................................................................5
3.3. Impact assessment ...................................................................................................................5
3.4. Grading .....................................................................................................................................5
3.5. Assumptions and limitations ....................................................................................................5
3.6. Consultation processes undertaken .........................................................................................5
4. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT ........................................................................................ 5
4.1. Site context ...............................................................................................................................5
4.2. Site description .........................................................................................................................6
5. CULTURAL HERITAGE CONTEXT ................................................................................................... 7
5.1. Archaeological aspects .............................................................................................................7
5.2. Historical aspects and the built environment ..........................................................................7
6. FINDINGS OF THE HERITAGE STUDY .......................................................................................... 10
6.1. Palaeontology .........................................................................................................................10
6.2. Archaeology ............................................................................................................................10
6.3. Graves .....................................................................................................................................11
6.4. Built environment ...................................................................................................................11
6.5. Cultural landscape ..................................................................................................................11
6.6. Statement of significance .......................................................................................................12
6.7. Summary of heritage indicators and provisional grading ......................................................12
7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................... 13
8. LEGISLATIVE AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................... 15
9. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME INPUTS .......................................................... 15
10. CONCLUSIONS ........................................................................................................................ 15
11. RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................................. 15
12. REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................... 16
APPENDIX 1 Curriculum Vitae .................................................................................................... 18
APPENDIX 2 Palaeontological study ........................................................................................... 20

ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd | Reg. no.: 2013/220482/07 vi


1. INTRODUCTION

ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) to conduct an assessment of the potential impacts to heritage resources
that might occur through the proposed establishment of a small-scale alluvial diamond mine
on Kwaggaslagte 121-1 (Figures 1 & 2). The site lies some 38 km east of central Lichtenburg.

2626 (Mapping information supplied by Chief


Directorate: National Geo-Spatial Information.
Website: wwwi.ngi.gov.za)

Figure 1: Map (1:250 000) showing the location of the site some 38 km east of the town of
Lichtenburg. The area enclosed by the box is enlarged in Figure 2.

1.1. Project description

The establishment of a small-scale alluvial diamond mine has been proposed by Mosotetsi
(Pty) Ltd. The mine will cover 5 ha of land and will include a camp where mining equipment
and associated processing infrastructure and facilities will be located. The mining operations
will involve excavation within 1.5 ha of land and processing (crushing, grading, washing and
sorting) of minerals.

All aspects of the proposed project have the potential to impact on heritage resources.

No alternatives have been identified for the project.

1
GA-MOTLATLA
R53

2626BA (Mapping information supplied by


Chief Directorate: National Geo-Spatial
Information. Website: wwwi.ngi.gov.za)

Figure 2: Map (1:50 000) showing the location of the site (red star) 2 km east of the village
of Ga-Motlatla.

1.2. Terms of reference

ASHA Consulting was requested to conduct a heritage impact assessment that would meet
the requirements of the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). SAHRA, when
notified about the project, requested that a heritage impact assessment be carried out. The
assessment should include archaeology and any other applicable heritage components
(SAHRA comment dated 07 June 2016).

It should also be noted, however, that following S.38(3) of the National Heritage Resources
Act (No. 25 of 1999), even though certain specialist studies may be specifically requested, all
heritage resources should be identified and assessed.

1.3. Scope and purpose of the report

A heritage impact assessment (HIA) is a means of identifying any significant heritage


resources before development begins so that these can be managed in such a way as to
allow the development to proceed (if appropriate) without undue impacts to the fragile
heritage of South Africa. This HIA report aims to fulfil the requirements of the heritage
authorities such that a comment can be issued for consideration by North West Department

2
of Mineral Resources who will review the Basic Assessment (BAR) and grant or withhold
authorisation. The HIA report will outline any mitigation requirements that will need to be
complied with from a heritage point of view and that should be included in the conditions of
authorisation should this be granted.

1.4. The author

Dr Jayson Orton has an MA (UCT, 2004) and a D.Phil (Oxford, UK, 2013), both in
archaeology, and has been conducting Heritage Impact Assessments and archaeological
specialist studies throughout the western half of South Africa since 2004 (Please see
curriculum vitae included as Appendix 1). He has also conducted research on aspects of the
Later Stone Age in Northern and Western Cape and published widely on the topic. He is an
accredited heritage practitioner with the Association of Professional Heritage
Practitioners (APHP) and also holds archaeological accreditation with the Association of
Southern African Professional Archaeologists (ASAPA) CRM section (Member #233) as
follows:

Principal Investigator: Stone Age, Shell Middens & Grave Relocation; and
Field Director: Colonial Period & Rock Art.

2. HERITAGE LEGISLATION

The National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA) No. 25 of 1999 protects a variety of heritage
resources as follows:
Section 34: structures older than 60 years;
Section 35: palaeontological, prehistoric and historical material (including ruins)
more than 100 years old;
Section 36: graves and human remains older than 60 years and located outside of a
formal cemetery administered by a local authority; and
Section 37: public monuments and memorials.

Following Section 2, the definitions applicable to the above protections are as follows:
Structures: any building, works, device or other facility made by people and which is
fixed to land, and includes any fixtures, fittings and equipment associated
therewith;
Palaeontological material: any fossilised remains or fossil trace of animals or plants
which lived in the geological past, other than fossil fuels or fossiliferous rock
intended for industrial use, and any site which contains such fossilised remains or
trace;
Archaeological material: a) material remains resulting from human activity which
are in a state of disuse and are in or on land and which are older than 100 years,
including artefacts, human and hominid remains and artificial features and
structures; b) rock art, being any form of painting, engraving or other graphic
representation on a fixed rock surface or loose rock or stone, which was executed by
human agency and which is older than 100 years, including any area within 10m of
such representation; c) wrecks, being any vessel or aircraft, or any part thereof,
3
which was wrecked in South Africa, whether on land, in the internal waters, the
territorial waters or in the maritime culture zone of the Republic, as defined
respectively in sections 3, 4 and 6 of the Maritime Zones Act, 1994 (Act No. 15 of
1994), and any cargo, debris or artefacts found or associated therewith, which is
older than 60 years or which SAHRA considers to be worthy of conservation; and
d) features, structures and artefacts associated with military history which are older
than 75 years and the sites on which they are found;
Grave: means a place of interment and includes the contents, headstone or other
marker of such a place and any other structure on or associated with such place;
and
Public monuments and memorials: all monuments and memorials a) erected on
land belonging to any branch of central, provincial or local government, or on land
belonging to any organisation funded by or established in terms of the legislation of
such a branch of government; or b) which were paid for by public subscription,
government funds, or a public-spirited or military organisation, and are on land
belonging to any private individual.

While landscapes with cultural significance do not have a dedicated Section in the NHRA,
they are protected under the definition of the National Estate (Section 3). Section 3(2)(c)
and (d) list historical settlements and townscapes and landscapes and natural features of
cultural significance as part of the National Estate. Furthermore, Section 3(3) describes the
reasons a place or object may have cultural heritage value; some of these speak directly to
cultural landscapes.

Section 38 (2a) states that if there is reason to believe that heritage resources will be
affected then an impact assessment report must be submitted. This report fulfils that
requirement.

Under the National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998; NEMA), as amended,
the project is subject to a BAR. SAHRA (for archaeology and palaeontology) and the North
West Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (NWPHRA; for built environment and
landscapes) are required to provide comment on the proposed project in order to facilitate
final decision making by the North West Department of Mineral Resources.

3. METHODS

3.1. Literature survey and information sources

A survey of available literature was carried out to assess the general heritage context into
which the development would be set. This literature included published material,
unpublished commercial reports and online material, including reports sourced from the
South African Heritage Resources Information System (SAHRIS). The 1:50 000 and 1:250 000
maps and the historical aerial photographs were sourced from the Chief Directorate:
National Geo-Spatial Information.

4
3.2. Field survey

The site was subjected to a detailed foot survey on 28 June 2016. This was during mid-
winter. Vegetation was low and dry and ground visibility was generally good, although just
under 1 ha of the site was already disturbed by an excavation and its associated spoil heaps.
During the survey the positions of finds were recorded on a hand-held GPS receiver set to
the WGS84 datum. Photographs were taken at times in order to capture representative
samples of both the affected heritage and the landscape setting of the proposed
development.

3.3. Impact assessment

For consistency, the impact assessment was conducted through application of a scale
supplied by the CSIR.

3.4. Grading

Section 7 of the NHRA provides for the grading of heritage resources into those of National
(Grade 1), Provincial (Grade 2) and Local (Grade 3) significance. Grading is intended to allow
for the identification of the appropriate level of management for any given heritage
resource. Grade 1 and 2 resources are intended to be managed by the national and
provincial heritage resources authorities, while Grade 3 resources would be managed by the
relevant local planning authority. These bodies are responsible for grading, but anyone may
make recommendations for grading.

3.5. Assumptions and limitations

The study is carried out at the surface only and hence any completely buried archaeological
sites or palaeontological material will not be readily located. Similarly, it is not always
possible to determine the depth of such material visible at the surface. It should be noted,
however, that sections through the deposits were available for inspection within the
existing excavations and that the spoil heaps could be inspected for fossil material.

3.6. Consultation processes undertaken

The NHRA requires consultation as part of an HIA but, since the present study falls within
the context of an EIA which includes a public participation process (PPP), no dedicated
consultation was undertaken as part of the HIA.

4. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT

4.1. Site context

The site lies in a rural area just west of a village. There are no roads, power lines or any
other infrastructure in the general area. The farmland in the broader region is mostly used
for livestock grazing.

5
4.2. Site description

The site is very flat and coated in short grass and rock fragments (Figures 3 and 4). A large
excavation is placed in the centre of the site and this reveals gravel and rock in its spoil
heaps. There are also a number of termite mounds in the area.

Figure 3: View across the site facing towards the southwest showing the vegetation cover in
the foreground and the spoil heaps in the background.

Figure 4: View of the ground surface showing the Figure 5: Smaller gravel clasts on
typical rock fragments coating the surface. the excavation spoil heaps.

6
5. CULTURAL HERITAGE CONTEXT

This section of the report contains the desktop study and establishes what is already known
about heritage resources in the vicinity of the study area. What was found during the field
survey as presented below may then be compared with what is already known in order to
gain an improved understanding of the significance of the newly reported resources.

5.1. Archaeological aspects

The National Cultural History Museum (1995) conducted a broad survey of a large area to
the north of Lichtenburg. They report on the presence of Early Stone Age (ESA) artefacts at
the diamond mines, while Van Schalkwyk (2008) notes that ESA and Middle Stone Age
(MSA) artefacts have been unearthed in the various diamond mines of the area and are also
sometimes found along river courses. Further west, the gravels of the lower Vaal River are
very well known for the ESA material and fossil animal bones that they have produced
(Cooke 1949; Goodwin 1928; Klein 1988; Peringuey 1911). Whether the same degree of
archaeological and fossil material might be present further east in palaeo-river channels is
not known, but at least some artefactual material has been collected from the region
(Mitchell 2002; Peringuey 1911). The National Cultural History Museum (1995) also noted
the existence of earlier mining settlements near Lichtenburg with one (Carlisonia) having
been reduced to rubble and another (Grasfontein) being represented solely by its general
dealers shop. In a more detailed survey of a site just north of Lichtenburg, Hutten (2012)
was unable to locate any heritage resources. Van Schalkwyk (2008), too, found no Stone Age
material on his linear survey extending north-westwards from Lichtenburg through
Bakerville. We do know, however, that Later Stone Age (LSA) engravings do occur on
dolomitic rocks in the general area (Willcox 1963; Figure 6). The Gestoptefontein-Driekuil
Complex is a well-known set of engraving sites occurring some 110 km to the southwest of
the study area and that include both Stone Age and historical imagery (Hollman 2011). Iron
Age archaeology is well-known to occur in the general region, although the lack of suitable
building rock in the area is the likely reason why kraal structures have not been recorded
here. Mason (1968:172) noted that Iron Age settlers avoided extensive grasslands such as
the grasslands of the western Karoo Highveld on the Lichtenburg Plain, possibly because of
the rarity of surface streams and low relief which denied water and natural topographic
protection to settlers in such territory.

5.2. Historical aspects and the built environment

Lichtenburg was a farming community that developed during the latter half of the
nineteenth century. The town itself was established in 1873. The nearby village of Bakerville
lies at the site of the early twentieth century diamond diggings.

7
Figure 6: Extract of a map showing the distribution of rock engravings (\\\) and
paintings (///) in South Africa. The present study area lies to the southwest of Site 16 on the
map (red oval). Source: Willcox (1963: fig. 2).

Lichtenburg saw action during the South African War (a.k.a. Anglo-Boer War). The town was
a strategic position and was held by both the Boer and British forces in turn. Colonel Robert
Baden-Powell led a large British force to secure the town and surrounding territory in
November 1900, but on Sunday 3rd March 1901 some 400 Boers under the joint commands
of Generals De la Rey, Smuts, Celliers, Vermaas and Lemmer attacked the town. This was
the Battle of Lichtenburg. Fourteen Boers and eighteen British were killed, while 38 Boers
and 24 British were wounded (Van Vuuren 2015).

The first diamond to be discovered in the area was found in 1924 on the farm Elandsputte
by John Voorendyk when digging a hole to construct a cattle dip. However, the State
Geologist at the time, Dr Harger, was unconvinced of the nature of the deposits and it was
only two years later when diamonds were again discovered in the area that Dr Harger
commenced prospecting. Ironically, and due to a navigational error on his part subsequent
work by him was carried out on part of Elandsputte and his rich findings there precipitated
the 1926 Lichtenburg diamond rush (Smith 2006). Figures 7 and 8 show early mining scenes
from the area. Voorendyks cattle dip was declared a National Monument (now a Provincial
Heritage Site [PHS]) in 1980 (SAHRA n.d.). Aerial photography shows that the area around
the present site has not been subjected to very much early 209 th century excavation as
compared to the region closer to Lichtenburg.

8
Figure 7: Grasfontein Diamond Diggings, 1927 (Source: Smith 2006).

Figure 8: Vaalboschpatte Diamond Diggings (Source: Smith 2006).

The National Cultural History Museum (1995) noted that the historic diamond mining
landscape was constantly changing as a result of people reworking old mine dumps and
sometimes using the material to refill old mine pits. The area was also found to be littered
with old equipment and machinery, while a variety of corrugated iron structures dating to
the old mining days were also noted.

The National Cultural History Museum (1995) also recorded a number of cemeteries in the
area near Lichtenburg. These were for either black or white people and were generally in
very poor condition.

9
6. FINDINGS OF THE HERITAGE STUDY

This section describes the heritage resources recorded in the study area during the course
of the project.

6.1. Palaeontology

The palaeontological resources of the study area include stromatolites within the dolomites
of the Malmani Subgroup and possible fossil wood and pollens within the gravels. One small
stromatolite was seen on site but these are common and of far less significance than larger
examples. Please see the palaeontological specialist study by Dr John Almond contained in
Appendix 2 for further details.

6.2. Archaeology

No archaeological material, whether Stone Age or Iron Age, was found during the ground
survey. The only signs of human activity consisted of the large excavation and three small
piles of stones that are likely to have been cleared from the now abandoned agricultural
lands (waypoint 162; Figures 9 and 10). The stone piles are not within the study area.

The excavation seems likely to have been carried out within the last decade.

Figure 9: The three small piles of Figure 10: Aerial view of the area around waypoint 162
stones found at waypoint 162. showing the abandoned agricultural lands of the area.

10
Figure 11: Aerial view of the study area showing the location of the stone mounds (waypoint
162). The blue lines indicate the walk paths created during the survey and the red polygon is
the study area.

6.3. Graves

There was no evidence of any graves within the study area. Unmarked graves are highly
unlikely because of the rocky substrate. The three piles of stones noted above are certain to
have been removed from the agricultural lands.

6.4. Built environment

There were no built heritage features within the study area.

6.5. Cultural landscape

The cultural landscape relates to the agricultural use of the area over many years. Although
currently used for livestock grazing, historical aerial photography shows that the area was
intensively cultivated in the past (Figure 12). The only remaining evidence of this is stones
moved out of fields and farm fences in places.

11
Figure 12: Aerial view of the study area as seen in 1944 (Job 77, Strip 006, photograph
03083). Note that the site polygon (in red) is a best estimate as there are insufficient
features to exactly locate it.

6.6. Statement of significance

Section 38(3)(b) of the NHRA requires an assessment of the significance of all heritage
resources. In terms of Section 2(vi), cultural significance means aesthetic, architectural,
historical, scientific, social, spiritual, linguistic or technological value or significance.

The palaeontological heritage is deemed to have low cultural significance for its scientific
value.

The cultural landscape has low heritage significance for its aesthetic value.

6.7. Summary of heritage indicators and provisional grading

No significant heritage indicators were found in the study area and no significant impacts to
heritage resources are expected. There are no heritage resources worthy of grading.

12
7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Any heritage resources (palaeontology, possible archaeology and the cultural landscape)
that are affected by the proposed development would be impacted during the construction
and operation phases when the site is cleared and then excavated. The impacts would be
direct but because of their very low significance would not require any further action prior
to the commencement of development.

Although no archaeological resources were located on the site, it is assumed for the
purposes of assessment that there could be some traces of past occupation still present on
the land. These would, however, have been heavily impacted by many years of ploughing.
As such, the impacts to archaeological heritage resources are rated as being of very low
significance.

Impacts to palaeontology, however, will certainly occur because fossil stromatolites were
recorded within the study area. However, they are of very limited scientific value and the
impact consequence is thus moderate. It is recommended that the Environmental Control
Officer (ECO) and mine staff should be made aware of the possibility of uncovering fossils
such as wood in the gravels and large stromatolites in the dolomite bedrock. With this plan
in place the significance of impacts would be reduced from low to very low.

Mining is not generally compatible with the local rural landscape but a precedent has
already been set by the large excavation currently located on the site. For this reason the
status of landscape impacts has been noted as neutral because the status quo will be
retained.

Table 1 below provides a formal assessment of the expected impacts. Cumulative impacts
are not of any great concern because:
No archaeological resources are present;
The only recorded fossils on the site are common and of low significance; and
The site is very small in relation to the broader cultural landscape and there are no
other similar developments in the vicinity that contribute similar impacts.

Overall, only impacts of low to very low significance are expected.

13
Table 1: Impact assessment summary table Construction Phase direct impacts.

Nature of potential impact/risk


Significance of

Potential mitigation measures


Irreplaceability of receiving
impact/risk
Aspect/ Impact pathway

environment/resource

Ranking of impact/risk
Reversibility of impact
= consequence x

Confidence level
Spatial Extent

Consequence
probability

Probability
Duration
Status

With mitigation
/management

/management

risk/impact)
mitigation

(residual
Without
CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION PHASES
Extreme
Destruction of
Negative Site Permanent Slight ly No High None required Very low Very low 5 High
archaeology
unlikely
Clearing
and Destruction of Very
Negative Site Permanent Moderate No High None required Low Very low 5 Medium
excavation palaeontology likely
of site
Erosion of
Loca Very Yes (with
cultural Neutral Long term Slight Moderate None required Very low Very low 5 High
l likely rehabilitation)
landscape
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

Destruction of
Negative Site Permanent Slight Unlikely No High None required Very low Very low 5 High
archaeology
Clearing
and Destruction of Very
Negative Site Permanent Slight No High None required Very low Very low 5 Medium
excavation palaeontology likely
of site Erosion of
Loca Very Yes (with
cultural Neutral Long term Slight Moderate None required Very low Very low 5 High
l likely rehabilitation)
landscape
8. LEGISLATIVE AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
The project will not be subject to any heritage permits. Only in the event that important heritage
was discovered during mining, and which needed mitigation, would an archaeologist or
palaeontologist need to apply for a permit in their own name to undertake the work.

9. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME INPUTS

Only one aspect requires further consideration as part of the EMPr. The project Environmental
Control Officer (ECO) and/or mine manager should be aware of the possibility of uncovering fossil
wood and/or large stromatolites during excavations. Should any such finds be made they should
be safeguarded, preferably in situ, and reported to SAHRA (Tel: 021 462 4502). A palaeontologist
may need to be appointed to examine and, if necessary rescue the finds and associated scientific
data.

10. CONCLUSIONS

There are no significant heritage resources present on the site and significant impacts are thus not
expected. The only minor concern is palaeontology, but the only fossil material seen was a small
stromatolite that has very little scientific value because such finds are very common.

It is also noted that the NHRA requires a consideration of social need and, since this project is a job
creation initiative, it must be given preference over heritage resources of low significance.

11. RECOMMENDATIONS

Because there will be no significant impacts to heritage resources, it is recommended that the
proposed mining project should be authorised but subject to the following condition (which
should be included in the environmental authorisation):

If any archaeological or palaeontological material or human burials are uncovered during


the course of development then work in the immediate area should be halted. The find
would need to be reported to the heritage authorities and may require inspection by an
archaeologist or palaeontologist as appropriate. Such heritage is the property of the state
and may require excavation and curation in an approved institution. The project EMPr
should make reference to this possibility so that appropriate action can be taken as and
when necessary.

15
12. REFERENCES

Cooke, H.B.S. 1949. Fossil mammals of the Vaal River deposits. Geological Survey of South Africa
Memoir 35(3): 1-109.

Goodwin, J.H. 1928. The archaeology of the Vaal River gravels. Transactions of the Royal Society of
South Africa 1: 77-102.

Heritage Western Cape. 2016. Grading: purpose and management implications. Document
produced by Heritage Western Cape 16 March 2016.

Hollman, J.C. 2011. The cutting edge: Khoe-San rock-markings at the Gestoptefontein-Driekuil
engraving complex, North West Province, South Africa. Unpublished PhD thesis, University
of the Western Cape.

Hutten, M. 2012. Heritage Impact Assessment: heritage impact assessment for the proposed
Lichtenburg Solar Park north of Lichtenburg, North West Province. Unpublished report
prepared for Africa Geo-Environmental Services. Louis Trichardt: Hutten Heritage
Consultants.

Klein, R.G. 1988. The archaeological significance of animal bones from Acheulean sites in southern
Africa. African Archaeological Review 6: 3-25.

Mason, R. 1968. Transvaal and Natal Iron Age settlement revealed by aerial photography and
excavation. African Studies 27: 167-180.

Mitchell, P.J. 2002. Catalogue of Stone Age artefacts from Southern Africa in the British Museum.
The British Museum Occasional Paper 108. London: The British Museum.

National Cultural History Museum. 1995. Reconnaissance of remaining cultural resources in the
Bakerville Diamond Fields. Unpublished report prepared for the Department of
Environmental Affairs and Tourism. Sunnyside: National Cultural History Museum.

Peringuey, L. 1911. The Stone Ages of South Africa as represented in the Collection of the South
African Museum. Annals of the South African Museum 8: 1-177.

SAHRA. n.d. Historic cattle dip, Elandsputte, Lichtenburg District. Accessed online on 20 June 2016
at: http://www.sahra.org.za/sahris/node/33381.

Smith, M. 2006. "On The Rand": a web site devoted to the history of early South African mining
related postcards, tokens & medals. Accessed online on 20th June 2016 at: http://www.on-
the-rand.co.uk/Index.htm.

Van Schalkwyk, J. 2008. Heritage impact report for the proposed 88kV power line from Watershed
Substation, Lichtenburg, to the Mmabatho Substation, North West Gauteng Province.
Unpublished report prepared for ARCUS Gibb (Pty) Ltd. Monument Park: J. van Schalkwyk.

16
Van Vuuren, D. 2015. Battle of Lichtenburg. Boer and Brit: our last South African Heritage.
Accessed online on 29 June 2016 at: http://www.boerenbrit.com/archives/4800.

Willcox, A.R. 1963. The rock art of South Africa. Johannesburg: Thomas Nelson and Sons (Africa)
(Pty) Ltd.

17
APPENDIX 1 Curriculum Vitae

Curriculum Vitae

Jayson David John Orton


ARCHAEOLOGIST AND HERITAGE CONSULTANT

Contact Details and personal information:

Address: 6A Scarborough Road, Muizenberg, 7945


Telephone: (021) 788 8425
Cell Phone: 083 272 3225
Email: jayson@asha-consulting.co.za

Birth date and place: 22 June 1976, Cape Town, South Africa
Citizenship: South African
ID no: 760622 522 4085
Drivers License: Code 08
Marital Status: Married to Carol Orton
Languages spoken: English and Afrikaans

Education:

SA College High School Matric 1994


University of Cape Town B.A. (Archaeology, Environmental & Geographical Science) 1997
University of Cape Town B.A. (Honours) (Archaeology)* 1998
University of Cape Town M.A. (Archaeology) 2004
University of Oxford D.Phil. (Archaeology) 2013

*Frank Schweitzer memorial book prize for an outstanding student and the degree in the First Class.

Employment History:

Spatial Archaeology Research Unit, UCT Research assistant Jan 1996 Dec 1998
Department of Archaeology, UCT Field archaeologist Jan 1998 Dec 1998
UCT Archaeology Contracts Office Field archaeologist Jan 1999 May 2004
UCT Archaeology Contracts Office Heritage & archaeological consultant Jun 2004 May 2012
School of Archaeology, University of Oxford Undergraduate Tutor Oct 2008 Dec 2008
Associate, Heritage & archaeological
ACO Associates cc Jan 2011 Dec 2013
consultant
Director, Heritage & archaeological
ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd Jan 2014
consultant

Memberships and affiliations:

South African Archaeological Society Council member 2004


Assoc. Southern African Professional Archaeologists (ASAPA) member 2006
ASAPA Cultural Resources Management Section member 2007
UCT Department of Archaeology Research Associate 2013
Heritage Western Cape APM Committee member 2013
UNISA Department of Archaeology and Anthropology Research Fellow 2014
Fish Hoek Valley Historical Association 2014

18
Professional Accreditation:

ASAPA membership number: 233, CRM Section member


Principal Investigator: Coastal shell middens (awarded 2007)
Stone Age archaeology (awarded 2007)
Grave relocation (awarded 2014)
Field Director: Rock art (awarded 2007)
Colonial period archaeology (awarded 2007)

Fieldwork and project experience:

Extensive fieldwork as both Field Director and Principle Investigator throughout the Western and Northern Cape, and
also in the western parts of the Free State and Eastern Cape as follows:

Phase 1 surveys and impact assessments:


Project types
o Notification of Intent to Develop applications (for Heritage Western Cape)
o Heritage Impact Assessments (largely in the Environmental Impact Assessment or Basic Assessment
context under NEMA and Section 38(8) of the NHRA, but also self-standing assessments under Section
38(1) of the NHRA)
o Archaeological specialist studies
o Phase 1 test excavations in historical and prehistoric sites
o Archaeological research projects
Development types
o Mining and borrow pits
o Roads (new and upgrades)
o Residential, commercial and industrial development
o Dams and pipe lines
o Power lines and substations
o Renewable energy facilities (wind energy, solar energy and hydro-electric facilities)

Phase 2 mitigation and research excavations:


ESA open sites
o Duinefontein, Gouda
MSA rock shelters
o Fish Hoek, Yzerfontein, Cederberg, Namaqualand
MSA open sites
o Swartland, Bushmanland, Namaqualand
LSA rock shelters
o Cederberg, Namaqualand, Bushmanland
LSA open sites (inland)
o Swartland, Franschhoek, Namaqualand, Bushmanland
LSA coastal shell middens
o Melkbosstrand, Yzerfontein, Saldanha Bay, Paternoster, Dwarskersbos, Infanta, Knysna, Namaqualand
LSA burials
o Melkbosstrand, Saldanha Bay, Namaqualand, Knysna
Historical sites
o Franschhoek (farmstead and well), Waterfront (fort, dump and well), Noordhoek (cottage), variety of
small excavations in central Cape Town and surrounding suburbs
Historic burial grounds
o Green Point (Prestwich Street), V&A Waterfront (Marina Residential), Paarl

19
APPENDIX 2 Palaeontological study

20
1

PALAEONTOLOGICAL HERITAGE COMMENT: RECOMMENDED EXEMPTION FROM


FURTHER PALAEONTOLOGICAL SPECIALIST STUDIES

Proposed Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining Operation on


Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 near Ventersdorp, North West
Province

John E. Almond PhD (Cantab.)


Natura Viva cc,
PO Box 12410 Mill Street,
Cape Town 8010, RSA
naturaviva@universe.co.za

June 2016

1. PROJECT OUTLINE

The company Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is proposing to undertake small-scale diamond mining on a small
(1.5 ha) site on the farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1, located c. 2 km west of the village of Ga-Motlatla, c.
35 km northwest of Ventersdorp and c. 40 km east of Lichtenburg, North West Province (Fig. 1).
This area falls under the Ditsobotla Local Municipality, within the Ngaka Modiri Molema District
Municipality. The site has been previously mined and features an open pit surrounded by flat-lying
agricultural lands.

The present desktop palaeontological heritage comment contributes to a Heritage Assessment for
the project that is being co-ordinated by Dr Jayson Orton of ASHA Consulting (Pty) Ltd (Address:
6A Scarborough Road, Muizenberg, 7945. E-mail: jayson@asha-consulting.co.za. Tel: 021 788
8425. Cell: 083 272 3225).

2. GEOLOGICAL CONTEXT

The proposed diamond mining operation will centre on an existing pit (26 04 46 S, 26 33 40 E) in
flat-lying agricultural terrain at an elevation of around 1520 m amsl, some 2 km west of the village
of Ga-Motlata.

The geology of the study area is shown on 1: 250 000 sheet 2626 Wes-Rand (Fig. 3) Council for
Geoscience, Pretoria) for which a sheet explanation has not yet been published. The development
footprint overlies Precambrian (Proterozoic) dolomites and associated marine sedimentary rocks
that are assigned to the Malmani Subgroup (Chuniespoort Group) within the Transvaal
Supergroup (Eriksson & Altermann 1998, Eriksson et al. 2006). The 2 km-thick Malmani
Subgroup succession consists of a series of formations of stromatolitic and oolitic carbonates
(limestones and dolomites), cherts and black carbonaceous shales. These marine sediments were
laid down in a range of supratidal, intertidal and subtidal settings over a major epicontinental
carbonate platform in Late Archaean to Early Proterozoic times, roughly 2.55 to 2.50 Ga (billion
years ago). The bedrock unit represented at the study site is the Monte Christo Formation that
comprises some 300-500 m of breccias as well as stromatolitic and oolitic platform carbonates,
principally cherty dolomites in this area. The Malmani carbonates in the study area have been
subject to karstic (solution) weathering processes with near-surface concentration of insoluble
materials (chert, ferromanganese minerals etc) through downwasting (Fig. 2).
John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc
2

The diamond deposits in the Lichtenburg area are in part associated with weathered, kaolinitised
alluvial or eluvial (residual) gravels of Late Cretaceous or younger Tertiary age that may have
been associated with south-flowing tributaries of the palaeo-Harts drainage system across the
Cargonian palaeo-highlands (De Wit 1981, De Wit et al. 2000, Partridge et al. 2006, cf Dollar
1998). According to the first authors, these gravels occur as surface stringers (see N-S dark
yellow strips in Fig. 3) or inside karstic hollows (sinkholes) within the underlying dolomitic bedrocks,
as at the present study site. The sinkholes may be related to an extensive ancient (Late
Cretaceous) African erosion surface. The basal productive Older Gravels consist mainly of
downwasted angular clasts of chert and vein quartz within a kaolinitic matrix. This facies is overlain
by similar but reddish gravels comprising chert, agate, vein quartz and rare diamonds. The Older
Gravels are largely of non-fluvial origin and may be of Late Cretaceous age. They are
unconformably overlain by greyish to reddish-brown, locally cross-bedded and diamondiferous
Younger Gravels of fluvial origin. Surface gravels in the area surrounding the pit are dominated by
cherty clasts downwasted from the Malmani dolomites.

Figure 1: Google earth satellite image of the Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond Mining
Operation (red dot) on the western part of Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 (white polygon)
situated c. 40 km east of Lichtenburg, North West Province.

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


3

Figure 2: Cut face in the existing small quarry on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 showing
karstified, thin-bedded cherts and dolomite of the Precambrian Monte Christo Formation at
the base. These are unconformably overlain by reddish-brown, chert-rich residual gravels
of possible Late Cretaceous age (Image kindly supplied by Dr J. Orton of ASHA Consulting
(Pty) Ltd).

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


4

3 km

Figure 3: Extract from 1: 250 000 geological map 2626 Wes-Rand (Council for Geoscience,
Pretoria) showing the approximate location (red dot) of the Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd Diamond
Mining Operation on the western part of Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1, c. 40 km east of
Lichtenburg, North West Province. The bedrock geology in the region comprises cherty
dolomites (solid blue-green) and banded cherts and dolomites of the Precambrian Monte
Christo Formation (Malmani Subgroup, Chuniespoort Group, Transvaal Supergroup) that
are locally stromatolitic. Qg (dark yellow) = stringers of Quaternary gravels, some
diamondiferous (Da = alluvial diamonds). Qs (pale yellow) = soils.

3. PALAEONTOLOGICAL HERITAGE

The Malmani Subgroup platform carbonates of the Transvaal Basin, including the Monte Christo
Formation, host a variety of stromatolites (microbial laminites), ranging from supratidal mats to
intertidal columns and large subtidal domes. These biogenic structures are of biostratigraphic as
well as palaeoecological interest; for example, the successive Malmani dolomite formations are in
part differentiated by their stromatolite biotas (e.g. Truswell and Eriksson 1972, 1973, and 1975,
Schopf 2006 and Eriksson et al. 2006, among others). Microbial filaments and unicells have been
reported from stromatolites of the Transvaal Supergroup.

The non-fluvial, karstic-infill gravels and younger alluvial gravels are generally of low
palaeontological sensitivity. Fossil pollens and petrified woods of Late Cretaceous age have been
recorded from a sinkhole on Farm Grasfontein to the northwest of Lichtenburg, however (De Wit
1981, De Wit et al. 2000; cf also De Wit et al. 2009). Downwasted dolomitic clasts within the karst-
infill gravels on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 contain occasional small-scale stromatolitic domes (Fig.
4).

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


5

Figure 4: Dolomite clast from karst-infill gravels on Farm Kwaggaslagte 121-1 featuring a
small (few cm wide) domical stromatolite (Image kindly supplied by Dr J. Orton of ASHA
Consulting (Pty) Ltd).

4. CONCLUSIONS

It is unlikely that significant impacts on exceptional, scientifically-important stromatolitic bedrocks


within the Precambrian (Malmani Subgroup) bedrocks will occur during diamond mining, which will
focus on the overlying diamond-bearing gravels. The karst-infill gravels are generally of low
palaeontological sensitivity, although rare petrified wood material might occur here.

The proposed mining development is considered unlikely to entail significant impacts on


palaeontological heritage. Pending the potential exposure of new fossil remains (e.g. petrified
wood, mammalian bones and teeth) during excavation, no further specialist palaeontological
studies or mitigation are recommended for this project.

In the case of any significant chance fossil finds during mining operation, these should be
safeguarded - preferably in situ - and reported by the ECO as soon as possible to the South
African Heritage Resources Agency, SAHRA (Contact details: SAHRA. P.O. Box 4637, Cape Town
8000. Tel: 021 462 4502. Email: cscheermeyer@sahra.org.za), so that appropriate mitigation by a
professional palaeontologist can be considered. Such mitigation usually involves the judicious
sampling, collection and recording of fossils as well as of relevant contextual data concerning the
surrounding sedimentary matrix. The palaeontologist concerned would need to apply beforehand
for a collection permit from SAHRA. These recommendations should be incorporated into the
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for this mining development.

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


6

5. REFERENCES

DE WIT, M.C.J. 1981. A geophysical investigation and geological interpretation of part of the
diamondiferous gravels on the farm Grasfontein (356JP), west of Bakerville. Unpublished MSc
thesis, University of Pretoria.

DE WIT, M.C.J. 1999. Post-Gondwana drainage and the development of diamond placers in
western South Africa. Economic Geology 94: 721-740.

DE WIT, M.C.J., MARSHALL, T.R. & PARTRIDGE, T.C. 2000. Fluvial deposits and drainage
evolution. In: Partridge, T.C. & Maud, R.R. (Eds.) The Cenozoic of southern Africa, pp.55-72.
Oxford University Press, Oxford.

DE WIT, M.C.J., WARD, J.D., BAMFORD, M.K. & ROBERTS, M.J. 2009. The significance of the
Cretaceous diamondiferous gravel deposit at Mahura Muthla, Northern Cape Province, South
Africa. South African Journal of Geology 112, 89-108.

DOLLAR, E.S.J. 1998. Palaeofluvial geomorphology in southern Africa: a review. Progress in


Physical Geography 22,325-349.

ERIKSSON, P.G. & ALTERMANN, W. 1998. An overview of the geology of the Transvaal
Supergroup dolomites (South Africa). Environmental Geology 36, 179-188.

ERIKSSON, P.G., ALTERMANN, W. & HARTZER, F.J. 2006. The Transvaal Supergroup and its
precursors. In: Johnson, M.R., Anhaeusser, C.R. & Thomas, R.J. (Eds.) The geology of South
Africa, pp. 237-260. Geological Society of South Africa, Marshalltown.

PARTRIDGE, T.C., BOTHA, G.A. & HADDON, I.G. 2006. Cenozoic deposits of the interior. In:
Johnson, M.R., Anhaeusser, C.R. & Thomas, R.J. (Eds.) The geology of South Africa, pp. 585-604.
Geological Society of South Africa, Marshalltown.

SAHRA 2013. Minimum standards: palaeontological component of heritage impact assessment


reports, 15 pp. South African Heritage Resources Agency, Cape Town.

SCHOPF, J.W. 2006. Fossil evidence of Archaean life. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal
Society B (2006) 361, 869-885.

TRUSWELL, J.F. & ERIKSSON, K.A. 1972. The morphology of stromatolites from the Transvaal
Dolomite northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. Transactions of the Geological Society of
South Africa 75, 99-110.

TRUSWELL, J.F. & ERIKSSON, K.A. 1973. Stromatolite associations and their
palaeoenvironmental significance: a reappraisal of a Lower Proterozoic locality in the North Cape
Province, South Africa. Sedimentary Geology 10, 1-23.

TRUSWELL, J.F. & ERIKSSON, K.A. 1975. A palaeoenvironmental interpretation of the early
Proterozoic Malmani Dolomite from Zwartkops, South Africa. Precambrian Research 9, 277-303.

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


7

6. QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE OF THE AUTHOR

Dr John Almond has an Honours Degree in Natural Sciences (Zoology) as well as a PhD in
Palaeontology from the University of Cambridge, UK. He has been awarded post-doctoral
research fellowships at Cambridge University and in Germany, and has carried out
palaeontological research in Europe, North America, the Middle East as well as North and South
Africa. For eight years he was a scientific officer (palaeontologist) for the Geological Survey /
Council for Geoscience in the RSA. His current palaeontological research focuses on fossil record
of the Precambrian - Cambrian boundary and the Cape Supergroup of South Africa. He has
recently written palaeontological reviews for several 1: 250 000 geological maps published by the
Council for Geoscience and has contributed educational material on fossils and evolution for new
school textbooks in the RSA.

Since 2002 Dr Almond has also carried out palaeontological impact assessments for developments
and conservation areas in the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga,
Kwazulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State and North West Province under the aegis of his Cape Town-
based company Natura Viva cc. He has been a long-standing member of the Archaeology,
Palaeontology and Meteorites Committee for Heritage Western Cape (HWC) and an advisor on
palaeontological conservation and management issues for the Palaeontological Society of South
Africa (PSSA), HWC and SAHRA. He is currently compiling technical reports on the provincial
palaeontological heritage of Western, Northern and Eastern Cape for SAHRA and HWC. Dr
Almond is an accredited member of PSSA and APHP (Association of Professional Heritage
Practitioners Western Cape).

Declaration of Independence

I, John E. Almond, declare that I am an independent consultant and have no business, financial,
personal or other interest in the proposed development project, application or appeal in respect of
which I was appointed other than fair remuneration for work performed in connection with the
activity, application or appeal. There are no circumstances that compromise the objectivity of my
performing such work.

Dr John E. Almond
Palaeontologist
Natura Viva cc

John E. Almond (2016) Natura Viva cc


Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

Natural Scientific Services CC


i
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

ECOLOGICAL OPINION FOR THE PROPOSED MOSOTETSI (PTY) LTD


DIAMOND MINING OPERATION ON FARM KWAGGASLAAGTE 121-1
NEAR VENTERSDORP, NORTH WEST.

Compiled For:

CSIR Stellenbosch (CAS, EMS)


11 Jan Cilliers Street
Stellenbosch, 7600
Western Cape, South Africa
Tel: (021) 888 2432
Fax: (021) 888 2473

Compiled By:

Natural Scientific Services CC


126 Ballyclare Dr
Morningside ext 40
Sandton, Johannesburg
Tel: (011) 787 7400
Fax: (011) 7847599

COPYRIGHT WARNING
With very few exceptions the copyright of all text and presented information is the exclusive property of Natural Scientific Services. It
is a criminal offence to reproduce and/or use, without written consent, any information, technical procedure and/or technique
contained in this document. Criminal and civil proceedings will be taken as a matter of strict routine against any person and/or
institution infringing the copyright of Natural Scientific Services.

Ref No: 2236


Date: March 2016, edited April 2016

Natural Scientific Services CC


ii
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is undertaking the necessary
environmental authorisations for a proposed diamond mining operation (Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd) in
the North West Province. The CSIR is undertaking the work pro-bono as part of a Special
Needs Skills and Development Programme for the Dani Property Trust. In line with legislation,
Natural Scientific Services CC (NSS) performed the ecological component for the proposed
project.

The Project is located on the farm Kwaggaslaagte 121-1 near Ga-Motlatla Village, about 35 km
from Ventersdorp, North-West. From historical imagery, it is clear that the majority of the area
over the last 20 years has been under agriculture (crop fields). The site is also situated in the
Grassland Biome, and more specifically the Gh 15 Carletonville Dolomite Grassland. This
vegetation unit occurs on slightly undulating plains dissected by prominent rocky chert ridges.
Species-rich grasslands forming a complex mosaic pattern dominated by many species.

The ecological scan involved desktop research and fieldwork, which was performed during a site
visit on 18 February 2016. From the field investigations the study area was predominantly flat to
slightly undulating with very homogenous vegetation structure. The majority of the site was
transformed through previous mining (excavation) and agricultural practices. Therefore only
slight variations in vegetation structure could be seen with the defined habitat groups. These
included the natural habitat pockets referred to as Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky
Grassland and the transformed Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky Grassland (Past Farming) and
Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in recovery). In terms of floral Conservation
Important (CI) species, the Declining Boophone disticha and the Declining Hypoxis
hemerocallidea were, identified on Site. These are also considered Protected species under the
Nature Conservation Ordinance, 12 of 1983 that require a permit from North West Province.

As mentioned, habitat diversity within the small relatively flat chert-dominated Kwaggaslaagte
site is low and as such faunal diversity is expected to to be low. In total nine mammal, 32 bird, 5
reptile, 6 butterfly and one scorpion species were detected on site during the ecoscan. In spite
of this, a number of CI species may utilise the site albeit sporadically. Few (if any) are likely to
be resident and most CIS will not be dependent on the site.

A Site Significance assessment was based on the findings from the ecological scan, as well as
relevant international, national and provincial planning and other biodiversity conservation
initiatives. Ratings were assigned to each habitat, with the Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky
Grassland containing the highest rating (Moderate Significance). This community still shows
signs of a typical Carltonville Dolomitic Grassland indicative of the species recorded and also
contains Declining floral species, potential CI faunal species and shows limited disturbances.

Natural Scientific Services CC


iii
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

Although the site is small, and relatively transformed through past agricultural practices, a
number of potential impacts could still occur and were highlighted within the report. This
included the direct loss of terrestrial vegetation and faunal habitat, faunal mortality and
displacement, the loss of CI floral species, potential introduction of Alien (plant) and feral - pest
(Faunal) species and sensory disturbances affecting behavioural patterns.

With the implementation of the mitigation measures suggested in this report, the significance of
most impacts on site from an ecological perspective are considered to be of Low Significance.
Based on the information available to date, with the brief field scan of the site, it is NSSs opinion
that there are no fatal flaws to the project and that provided the mitigation set out is adhered to
and that the developer shows commitment to the sustainable development, NSS have no
objections to the project going forward.

Natural Scientific Services CC


iv
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction............................................................................................................................ 1

2. Terms of Reference ............................................................................................................... 3

3. Project Team .......................................................................................................................... 3

4. Applicable Legislation ........................................................................................................... 4


4.1. International Agreements ................................................................................................ 4
4.2. International Policies and Agreements ............................................................................ 4
4.3. Regional Agreements ..................................................................................................... 4
4.4. National Legislation......................................................................................................... 4
4.5. National Policies, Guidelines and Programmes ............................................................... 5
4.6. North West Legislation, Policies & Guidelines ................................................................. 5

5. Study Site Description........................................................................................................... 6


5.1. Locality & Land Use ........................................................................................................ 6
5.2. Climate ........................................................................................................................... 6
5.3. Geology and Soils ........................................................................................................... 7
5.4. Hydrology ....................................................................................................................... 8
5.5. Regional and Local Vegetation ....................................................................................... 9

6. Methodology ........................................................................................................................ 13
6.1. Vegetation & Floral Communities .................................................................................. 13
6.2. Fauna ........................................................................................................................... 15
6.3. Impact Assessment....................................................................................................... 16

7. Terrestrial Biodiversity Results .......................................................................................... 19


7.1. Vegetation Communities / Habitats ............................................................................... 19
7.2. Fauna ........................................................................................................................... 27

8. Areas of Significance .......................................................................................................... 33


8.1. International Areas of Significance ................................................................................ 34
8.2. National and Regional Areas of Significance................................................................. 34
8.3. Local Areas of Significance ........................................................................................... 35

9. Impact Assessment & Recommendations ......................................................................... 42


9.1. Construction and Operational Phases ........................................................................... 42
9.2. Decomissioning Phase.................................................................................................. 43
9.3. Management and Mitigatory Recommendations ........................................................... 43

10. Concluding Remarks ........................................................................................................... 44

11. References ........................................................................................................................... 47

12. Appendices .......................................................................................................................... 49


12.1. Appendix 1 Present and potentially occurring mammal species ................................... 49
12.2. Appendix 2 Present and potentially occurring bird species ............................................ 51

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12.3. Appendix 3 Present and potentially occurring reptile species ....................................... 59


12.4. Appendix 4 Present and potentially occurring frog species .......................................... 61
12.5. Appendix 5 Present and potentially occurring butterfly species .................................... 61
12.6. Appendix 6 Present and potentially occurring arachnid species ................................... 63
12.7. Appendix 7 Main CVs .................................................................................................. 64

LIST OF TABLES

Table 3-1 Project team with associated areas of specialisation ....................................... 4


Table 5-1 Soil forms, their wetland potential, coverage, and erodibility classes within the
terrain units of land type Fa15 ......................................................................... 8
Table 5-2 Summary of the Monamaladi Rivers Ecostatus and impacts ........................... 9
Table 5-3 Dominant species found within the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland .............. 9
Table 6-1 Potential Intensity (CSIR) .............................................................................. 17
Table 6-2 Impact Assessment - Spatial Extent .............................................................. 18
Table 6-3 Impact Assessment - Duration ....................................................................... 18
Table 6-4 Impact Assessment Probability ................................................................... 18
Table 6-5 Impact Assessment - Significance ................................................................. 19
Table 7-1 Top ten dominant families and most dominant growth forms obtained from the
POSA website for the QDS 2626B and on Site .............................................. 20
Table 7-2 Broad Habitat/Vegetation communities .......................................................... 21
Table 7-3. Plant species identified within the study area................................................. 21
Table 7-4 Numbers of conservation important plant species per Red Data category within
South Africa and North West (date accessed: March 2016) ........................... 26
Table 7-5. Faunal species detected on site .................................................................... 28
Table 7-6. Present and potentially occurring CI mammal species ................................... 30
Table 7-7. Present and potentially occurring CI bird species .......................................... 31
Table 7-8. Present and potentially occurring CI arachnid species ................................... 33
Table 8-1. Scoring Range for the Areas of Significance.................................................. 35
Table 8-2 Descriptions and ratings of the various Areas of Significance ........................ 36
Table 9-1. A Summary of Impacts and Significance with Mitigation ................................ 43
Table 9-2. Impact Assessment ....................................................................................... 45
Table 9-3. Management and Mitigatory Recommendations ............................................ 46

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1 Locality Map of the area .................................................................................. 2


Figure 5-1 Historic disturbances on site (Google Earth Imagery) ...................................... 6
Figure 5-2 Monthly Rainfall and Temperature Patterns for Lichtenburg from January 2015
to February 2016 7

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Figure 5-3 Terrain units occurring within land type Fa15 (AGIS, 2014) ............................. 8
Figure 5-4 Regional Vegetation and Land Types in the Study Area ................................ 11
Figure 5-5 Ecoregion and Quaternary Catchments in the Study Area ............................. 12
Figure 6-1 Main vegetation sampling points.................................................................... 14
Figure 7-1 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area. ............................................ 23
Figure 7-2 Photographs of the different habitats within the bounds of the study area ..... 24
Figure 7-3. Examples of indigenous plant species on site................................................ 25
Figure 7-4 Photographs of Conservation Important plant species on Site ....................... 27
Figure 7-5. Examples of faunal species on site ................................................................ 28
Figure 8-1 National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas in the Study Area .................. 38
Figure 8-2 Threatened Ecosystems and SANBI Priority Areas ....................................... 39
Figure 8-3 North West Biodiversity Conservation Assessment ....................................... 40
Figure 8-4 On Site Significance ...................................................................................... 41

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LIST OF ACRONYMS

ACRONYM DESCRIPTION
AoC Areas of Concern
CARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act 43 of 1983)
CAS Consulting and Analytical Services
CBA Critical Biodiversity Areas
CR Critically Endangered a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for
describing species in serious danger of facing extinction
CI Conservation Important Species
CSIR Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
DD Data Deficient a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for
describing species for which there is inadequate data available to
assess their danger of facing extinction
DEA Department of Environmental Affairs
DWA Department of Water Affairs (Previously known as DWAF)
DWAF Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
DWS Department of Water and Sanitation (Previously known as DWA)
ECA Environmental Conservation Act (Act 73 of 1989)
EI Ecological Importance
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Programme
EMPR Environmental Management Programme Report
EN Endangered a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for
describing species in danger of facing extinction
ES Ecological Sensitivity
FEPA Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas
GG Government Gazette
GN Government Notice
IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature, based in Gland,
Switzerland
LC Least Concern a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for
describing species not in danger of facing extinction
MBG Mining and Biodiversity Guideline
MBSP Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan
MNCA Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act (Act 10 of 1998)
MPBA Mpumalanga Parks Board Act (Act 6 of 1995)
MTPAA Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency Act (Act 5 of 2005)
NAEHMP National Aquatic Ecosystem Health Monitoring Programme
NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
NEM:AQA National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (Act 39 of 2004)
NEM:BA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004)

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ACRONYM DESCRIPTION
NEM:PAA National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of
2003)
NEMA National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998)
NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act (Act 59 of 2008)
NFA National Forest Act (Act 48 of 1998)
NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas
NHRA National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999)
NMPRD National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of
2002)
NSBA National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment
NSS Natural Scientific Services CC
NVFFA National Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998)
NWA National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998)
NT Near Threatened a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for
describing species not yet in danger of facing extinction, but close to
such a state
PES Present Ecological State
PrSciNat Registration as a Professional Natural Scientist
PS Protected Species
QDGS Quarter Degree Grid Square the basic unit used by the Surveyor
General for creation of 1:50 000 topographical maps
RHP River Health Programme
SAIAB South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity
SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute
SASS5 South African Scoring System version
SMP Strategic Management Plans
ToR Terms of Reference
TSP Threatened Species Programme a programme managed by SANBI
to assess the Red Data status of South African plants
VU Vulnerable a Red Data classification used by the IUCN for describing
species in danger of facing extinction
WMA Water Management Area
WQ Water Quality
WSA Water Service Act (WSA, Act 108 of 1997)

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DECLARATION

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1. Introduction

In South Africa, recent legislation has affirmed the national commitment to conservation. The
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2004) has been
assented by the South African President and was published in the Government Gazette in June
2004 (Vol. 467; No. 26426). The objective of this Act is to provide for, amongst others the
management and conservation of South Africas biodiversity within the framework of the
National Environmental Management Act, 1998; the protection of species and ecosystems that
warrant national protection; and the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is


undertaking the necessary environmental authorisations for
a proposed diamond mining operation (Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd)
in the North West Province. The CSIR is undertaking the
work pro-bono as part of a Special Needs Skills and
Development Programme for the Dani Property Trust. The
Project is located on the farm Kwaggaslaagte 121-1 near
Ga-Motlatla Village, about 35 km from Ventersdorp, North-
West (Figure 1-1). In line with legislation, Natural Scientific
Services CC (NSS) was approached by Environmental
Management Services (EMS) under the CSIRs Consulting
and Analytical Services (CAS) to perform an ecological scan for the proposed project. Any
additional biodiversity work that may be required as a result of this ecological scan would be
highlighted through this assessment.

This report includes the findings of an ecological scan with an impact assessment for the site.

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Figure 1-1 Locality Map of the area

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2. Terms of Reference

As agreed between the CSIR and NSS, our assessment was performed according to the
methodology described under Appendix 1, and this report includes:
A broad description of the biophysical attributes of the study area (relevant to an eco
assessment);
A list of any applicable legislation, guidelines, standards and criteria to be considered in
project planning (e.g. whether permits required for removal of certain species);
Broad determination of the conservation importance (in terms of national and provincial
priorities) of the sampled area;
the different vegetation types found, including overview on structure, dominant plant
composition and condition;
Species of Conservation Concern, if any, (Red Data / endemics / medicinal value) that
could potentially occur in the site and surrounds
An assessment of the potential impacts and a list of mitigation measures that will be
required to reduce these impacts (no detailed impact assessment was presented in the
Scope of Work, just a list of potential impacts).
Identification of any potential future work that may be required on site through the
assessment and motivation as to why.

3. Project Team

This assessment was conducted and managed by NSS. The NSS team have extensive
experience in project management and fieldwork for numerous ecological and biodiversity
studies as well as aquatic and wetland assessments. The team have also been involved in the
management and undertaking of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Environmental
Management Programme Reports (EMPRs), Strategic Management Plans (SMPs) and
Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), thereby having a good understanding and
knowledge of impacts associated with different development sectors (Conservation, Mining,
Industrial and Commercial). In terms of accreditation and professional registrations the following
is applicable to NSS:
The senior team members are registered Professional Natural Scientists in the
ecological, environmental, aquatic and zoological fields.
The aquatics team are accredited with Department of Water and Sanitation (DWA) to
perform the SASS5 (South African Scoring System version 5) for aquatic macro-
invertebrate monitoring.
The Wetland Specialists is acknowledged by the DWS as a Competent Wetland
Delineator.

The details of the project team are included in Table 3-1 and Main CVs in Appendix 7.

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Table 3-1 Project team with associated areas of specialisation


ASPECT SPECIALIST QUALIFICATIONS
INVESTIGATED
Vegetation & Project Susan Abell M.Sc. Resource Conservation Biology (WITS).
Management Pr.Sci.Nat. Registered Ecology & Environmental
Science.
Fauna Tyron Clark B.Sc. Honours - Zoology (WITS).

Dr Caroline Ltter Ph.D. Zoology (UP).


Pr.Sci.Nat. Registered Zoology.
GIS mapping Tim Blignaut M.Sc. Geography (UJ) in progress.

4. Applicable Legislation

Legislation, policies and guidelines, which could apply to impacts of the proposed project on
biodiversity, are listed below. Although the list is comprehensive, additional legislation, policies
and guidelines that have not been mentioned may apply.

4.1. International Agreements


(Bonn) Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.
Convention on Biological Diversity including eco-systems and genetic resources.
Agenda 21 regarding the sustainable development at global and national levels.
Johannesburg Declaration and Plan of Implementation for sustainable development.

4.2. International Policies and Agreements


International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM): good practice guidance on mining and
biodiversity (Johnson & Starke, 2006).

4.3. Regional Agreements


Action Plan of the Environmental Initiative of NEPAD for sustainable development in
Africa.

4.4. National Legislation


Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA, Act 43 of 1983).
Environmental Conservation Act (ECA, Act 73 of 1989).
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996).
Water Services Act (WSA, Act 108 of 1997).
National Water Act (NWA, Act 36 of 1998).
National Forests Act (NFA, Act 84 of 1998) and Protected Tree Species.
National Veld and Forest Fire Act (NVFFA, Act 101 of 1998).

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National Environmental Management Act (NEMA; Act 107 of 1998).


National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA, Act 25 of 1999).
National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (NMPRD, Act 28 of 2002).
National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA, Act 57 of 2003).
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA; Act 10 of 2004):
o Threatened, Protected, Alien and Invasive Species Regulations (2007).
o Alien and Invasive Species Regulations (Government Gazette [GG] 37885, 1
August 2014).
o National list of Ecosystems Threatened and in need of Protection under Section
52(1) (a) of NEM: BA (GG 34809, Government Notice [GN] 1002, 9 December
2011).
National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (NEM:AQA, Act 39 of 2004).
Transport Infrastructure Act (Act No 8 of 2001)
Government Notice (GN) R. 704: regulating the use of water for mining and related
activities.
National Water Resource Strategy (2004).

4.5. National Policies, Guidelines and Programmes


National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) (DEA, 2005).
National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (NSBA) (Driver et al. 2004) including Priority
Areas and Threatened Ecosystems.
National Aquatic Ecosystem Health Monitoring Programme (NAEHMP) & River Health
Programme (RHP) (initiated by the DWAF, now the DWS).
National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas project (NFEPA) (Driver et al. 2011).
Review of biodiversity management in the mining industry in South Africa by Kuntonen-
vant Riet (2007).
National Water Resource Strategy (DWAF, 2013).
SANBI Grasslands Programme.
Threatened Grassland Species Programme of the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).
Mining & Biodiversity Guideline (MBG) (DEA et al. 2013)

4.6. North West Legislation, Policies & Guidelines


The Provincial department responsible for environmental matters in North West Province is the
Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environmental and Rural Development (DACERD).
Development of the North-West Biodiversity Conservation Bill
Includes the former Bophuthatswana, Western Transvaal and the Cape of Good Hope
Provinces. Each of these pre-1994 provinces had its own parts of legislation to manage
and conserve biodiversity and is still applicable, namely:
o Bophuthatswana Nature Conservation Act No. 3 of 1973;
o Cape Problem Animal Control Ordinance 26 of 1957;
o Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance12 of 1983, and

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o Cape Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974.


Development of Provincial & Municipal Strategic Environmental Assessments.
NWDACERD has undertaken the following SEA's within the province:
o SEA for Rustenburg (Phases 1 and 2);
o Mafikeng SEA;
o SEA for the North West Provincial SDF;
o Ditsobotla SEA;
o Vredefort Dome SEA; and
o Greater Taung SEA.
North West Province Environmental Implementation Plan (EIP) (GN Notice 657 of 2008)
as required by Section 11 of NEMA (Act 107 of 1998)
North West Conservation Plan (NW CPlan)
North West Environmental Outlook Report, 2008
North West State of the Environment Report, 2002 (SoER)

5. Study Site Description

5.1. Locality & Land Use


Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd is located on the farm Kwaggaslaagte 121-1, near the Ga-Motlatla Village
(Figure 1-1), approximately 35 km from Ventersdorp. The study site falls within the 2626BA
quarter degree square (QDGS). From historical imagery, it is clear that the majority of the area
over the last 20 years has been under agriculture (crop fields) (Figure 5-1).

Historical Image -1985 Historical Image -2010


Figure 5-1 Historic disturbances on site (Google Earth Imagery)

5.2. Climate
The study area receives rainfall, mostly during the summer months. Figure 5-2 shows monthly
rainfall and temperature data from January 2015 up until February 2016 (with the NSS fieldwork

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undertaken in February 2016). The highest rainfall has been received over January, with
February and December receiving very little rainfall. The annual rainfall from January to
December 2015 was 218 mm, which indicates a dryer than usual year. The maximum
temperatures range from 30C in January and December and the minimum temperatures range
from 1C in June and July (www.weathersa.co.za, www.accuweather.com).

120 35

100 30

Mean Monthly Temperature (C)


25
80
Monthly Rainfall (mm)

20
60
15
40
10

20 5

0 0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
2015 2016

Rainfall Months
Min Temperature
Max Temperature
Mean Temperature

Figure 5-2 Monthly Rainfall and Temperature Patterns for Lichtenburg from January 2015 to
February 2016

5.3. Geology and Soils


The geology of the Kwaggaslaagte comprises of dolomite and chert belonging to the
Chuniespoort Group (AGIS, 2014), supporting mostly shallow Mispah and Glenrosa soil forms
typical of the Fa land type (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). Chert gravels are abundant on
midslopes and footslopes including valley bottoms (AGIS, 2014).

Land types represent areas that are uniform with respect to climate, terrain form, geology and
soil. According to AGIS (2014), the study site is situated in land type Fa15 (Figure 5-4). Across
a landscape, usually five terrain units can be identified. Wetlands occur most frequently in valley
bottoms (unit 5), but can also occur on crests, mid slopes and foot slopes (units 1, 3 and 4). The
catena within land type Fa15 incorporate all of the four terrain units 1, 3, 4 and 5, as shown in
Figure 5.3. Presented in Table 5-1 is an overview of the soil forms and their extent of
coverage, which can be expected within different terrain units in land type Fa15.

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Figure 5-3 Terrain units occurring within land type Fa15 (AGIS, 2014)

Table 5-1 Soil forms, their wetland potential, coverage, and erodibility classes within the
terrain units of land type Fa15
% COVER PER TERRAIN UNIT
SOIL FORM
1 3 4 5
SLOPE (%) 0-2% 2-5% 1-2% 0-1%
Soil-rock complex
Rock/Rots 16 7 17 6
Mispah Ms10, KlipfonteinMs11,Platt Gs14, Glenrosa Gs15, 72 46 33 14
Trevanian Gs17
Msinga Hu26, Clansthal Hu24,Lichtenburg Hu23 12 47 50 40
Devon We22, Newport Cv27,Southwold Cv26, Avalon Av26,Chinyika 40
Wo21

5.4. Hydrology
The study site falls within the Middle Vaal Management Area (WMA) 9, Quaternary Catchment
C24F and Ecoregion 11.01 (Highveld eco-region), (Figure 5-5). According to the DWA (2012),
the Middle Vaal WMA is located downstream of the confluence of the Vaal and the Rietspruit
Rivers and upstream of Bloemhof Dam. It extends to the Skoonspruit River in the north and the
Vet River in the south, and covers a total catchment area of 52 563 km2. The Middle Vaal WMA
incorporates portions of the Free State and North-West Provinces and is, therefore, important to
the regional economies of these provinces. Major rivers in the Middle Vaal WMA include the
Skoonspruit, Renoster, Vals, Vet and Vaal rivers (DWA, 2012).

The Monamaladi River (19km south west of the site) is a tributary of the Taaibosspruit, which
flows south and joins the Skoonspruit and eventually the Vaal River just downstream of the town
of Orkney. In the Skoonspruit Catchment, land use is predominately mining, dryland and limited
irrigated agriculture and urbanization. The Skoonspruit dolomitic eye represents an important
resource in the upper part of the catchment, providing water for irrigation agriculture and
Ventersdorp as well as base flow in the river. There are also substantial irrigation abstractions
through boreholes from the dolomitic compartments feeding the eye. Major impacts include
mining and agricultural return flows, flow regulation for irrigation use, and water quality related
problems due to urbanization, mining and agriculture (DWA, 2012).

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A summary of the Present Ecological State (PES), Ecological Importance (EI), Ecological
Sensitivity (ES) and current impacts on the Monamaladi River is presented in Table 5-2 (DWS,
2014). The Desktop PES of the Monamaladi River is moderately modified (a Category) and a
loss and change of natural habitats and biota have occurred but the basic ecosystem functions
are predominately unchanged. According to the DWS (2014), the water quality (WQ) as well as
the instream and riparian habitats are impacted on by agriculture, trampling (by cattle), instream
dams, and roads. The EI of the Monamaladi River is moderate due to the presence of 48
species (riparian, wetland and aquatic species) in this sub-quaternary catchment as well as one
protected species. The main habitats for these species include an incised channel with surface
flows, grassy edges, riparian trees and shrubs as well as seepage and oxbow wetlands. The
size of stream, morphology and geomorphic habitat units determine the ES. The Monamaladi
River has a moderate sensitivity to modified flow conditions and water level changes (DWS,
2014). The degree of flow change will elicit a particular level of response and the smaller
streams are usually more sensitive i.e. rapid loss of useable habitats as flows decrease. The
Monamaladi River is a Lower Foothill and Endangered (EN) system and not protected (Nel &
Driver, 2012; Driver et al. 2011).

Table 5-2 Summary of the Monamaladi Rivers Ecostatus and impacts


Quaternary Water Present Ecological Ecological Current Impacts
Catchment Resource Ecological Importance Sensitivity
State (EI) (ES)
(PES)
C24F Monamaladi C Moderate Moderate Agriculture, trampling, instream
River & Moderately dams and roads
Taaibosspruit Modified

5.5. Regional and Local Vegetation


The study area is situated in the Grassland Biome, and more specifically the Gh 15 Carletonville
Dolomite Grassland (Figure 5-4), as classified by Mucina & Rutherford (2006). The Grassland
Biome is found primarily on the high central plateau of South Africa. The majority of plant
species within grasslands are non-grassy herbs (forbs), most of which are perennial plants with
large underground storage structures. Frost, fire and grazing maintain the herbaceous grass and
forb layer, and ultimately prevent the establishment of tall woody plants (Tainton, 1999).

This vegetation unit occurs on slightly undulating plains dissected by prominent rocky chert
ridges. Species-rich grasslands forming a complex mosaic pattern dominated by many species
(Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

Table 5-3 Dominant species found within the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland
Vegetation Type Carletonville Dolomite Grassland
Low Shrubs: Anthospermum rigidum subsp. pumilum, Indigofera comosa, Pygmaethamnus
zeyheri var. rogersii, Searsia magaliesmontana, Tylosema esculentum, Ziziphus
zeyheriana,

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Vegetation Type Carletonville Dolomite Grassland


Geoxylic Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Parinari capensis subsp. capensis
suffrutex:
Graminoids: Aristida congesta, Brachiaria serrata, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria tricholaenoides,
Hiheteropogon ampletens, Eragrostis chloromelas, E. racemosa, Heteropogon
contortus, Loudetia simplex, Schizachyrium sanguineum, Setaria sphacelata,
Themeda triandra, Alloteropsis semilata subsp. eckloniana, Andropogon
schirensis, Aristida canescens, A. diffusa, Bewsia bifola, Bulbostylis burchellii,
Cymbopogon caesius, Elinonurus muticus, Eragrostis curvula, E. gummiflua, E.
plantana, Eustachys paspaloides, Hyparrhenia hirta, Melinis nerviglumis, M.
repens subsp. repens, Monocymbium ceresiiforme, Panicum coloratum,
Pogonarthria squarrosa, Trichoneura grandiglumis, Triraphis andropogonoides,
Tristachya leucothrix, T. rehmannii
Herbs: Acalypha angustata, Chamaecrista mimosoides, Euphorbia inaequilatera, Crabbea
angustifolia, Dianthus mooiensis, Dicoma anomala, Helichrysum caespititium, H.
miconiifolium, H. nudifolium var. nudifolium, Ipomoea ommaneyi, Justicia
anagalloides, Kohautia amatymbica, Kyphocarpa angustifolia, Ophrestia
oblongifolia, Pollichia campestris, Senecio coronatus, Hillardia oligocephala.
Geophytic herbs: Boophane disticha (Declining Red List), Habenaria mossii

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Figure 5-4 Regional Vegetation and Land Types in the Study Area

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Figure 5-5 Ecoregion and Quaternary Catchments in the Study Area

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6. Methodology

The ecological scan involved desktop research and fieldwork, which was performed during a site
visit on 18 February 2016.

6.1. Vegetation & Floral Communities


As this is an ecological scan for a 5 hectare site, transformed through previous excavation (mining)
activities, detailed sampling for vegetation communities was not conducted. Due to the extent of the
site, the field investigation included an additional 35 ha around the site. Although the site was
largely disturbed and transformed, sampling methods such as Braun-Blanquet cover-abundance
approach (Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg, 1974) was, however, used as a basis to form broader
habitat units but not analysed using TWINSPAN. The vegetation component therefore included:
A desktop assessment of the vegetation within the region and potential community structure
based on the information obtained from:
1
o SANBIs Plants of South Africa (POSA) 2626B and specifically 2626BA QDS
o Mucina & Rutherfords (2006) vegetation map of southern Africa.
o The current North West C-Plan.
o CI plant species records in the study region obtained through POSA
A one day field investigation walking transects through the site:
o Noting species, habitats and cover abundance. Sampling points are presented in
Figure 6-1. Plant taxa were identified to species level (some cases, cf would be used
if identification was limiting cf means confer or looks like). Scientific names follow
POSA (Accessed, March 2016).
o Recording any observed alien and invasive plant species on site was also conducted.
The identification of declared weeds and invader species as promulgated under: the
NEMBA August 2014 regulations (GG37885); and the amended regulations
(Regulation 15) of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of
1983).
Reporting including vegetation community descriptions, mapping of broad habitat types /
vegetation communities and CI species analysis. For CI floral species, Likelihood of
Occurrence (LO) rating is assigned to each species based on the availability of suitable
habitat using the following scale: Present; Highly likely; Possible; Unlikely or No Habitat
available.

1
The South African National Biodiversity Institute

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Figure 6-1 Main vegetation sampling points

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6.1.1 Limitations
It is important to note that the absence of species on site does not conclude that the species is
not present at the site. Reasons for not finding certain species during the summer site visit may
be due to:
The small, fragmented nature of the site and disturbances from past excavation and
farming activities on site.
The short duration of fieldwork and the timing of the fieldwork, which occurred after a few
months of below average rainfall.
Some plant species, which are small, have short flowering times, rare or otherwise difficult
to detect may not have been detected even though they were potentially present on site.
Reporting including vegetation community descriptions, mapping of broad habitat types /
vegetation communities and CI species analysis. For CI floral species, Likelihood of
Occurrence (LO) rating is assigned to each species based on the availability of suitable
habitat using the following scale: Present; Highly likely; Possible; Unlikely or No Habitat
available.

6.2. Fauna

6.2.1 Desktop Research


A list of species potentially occurring in the study area was compiled for:
Mammals using the published species distribution maps in Friedmann & Daly (2004),
Stuart & Stuart (2007) and Monadjem et al. (2010) as well as online species distribution
data from MammalMap (2016).
Birds, using the latest online list of bird species from the first and second Southern African
Bird Atlas Projects (SABAP 1 & 2) for pentad 2600_2630. Bird species were grouped
according to a modified version of Newmans (2002) 12 bird categories.
Reptiles, using the published species distribution maps in Bates et al. (2014) and online
species distribution data from ReptileMap (2016).
Frogs, using the published species distribution maps in Minter et al. (2004) and online
species distribution data from FrogMap (2016).
Butterflies, using LepiMaps (2016) online list of recorded butterfly species from QDS
2626BA, and supplemental information published in Mecenero et al. (2013).
Scorpions, using the published species distribution maps in Leeming (2003). Currently,
ScopionMap cannot be used to generate geographic species lists.
Baboon spiders using Dippenaar-Schoeman (2002).

The lists were refined based on field observations, where the Likelihood of Occurrence (LO) of
each species was rated using the following scale:
1 Present: the species, or signs of its presence, was observed on Site or in the immediate
surrounding area by NSS, or in the region by SABAP observers.
2 High: the species is highly likely to occur, based on available distribution data, and
observed habitats.

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3 Moderate: the species may occur, based on available distribution data, and observed
habitats and disturbances.
4 The species is unlikely to occur based on marginal distribution or a lack of suitable
habitat.

6.2.2 Fieldwork
Faunal observations were made while driving, walking, and inspecting different habitats on site
and in the area. Taxa were identified based on observations specimens, spoor, droppings,
burrows and other evidence. Rocks and logs were turned in search of reptiles, scorpions, frogs
and invertebrates. A sweep net was used to catch butterflies.

6.2.3 Conservation Status of Species


In the appended faunal lists, the Global IUCN Red List status of species is provided, in addition
to the status of species as indicated on the Threatened or Protected Species list (ToPS2015)
under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA 2004), and as
determined during the latest national assessment for:
Mammals by Friedmann& Daly (2004).
Birds by Taylor et al. (2015).
Reptiles by Bates et al. (2014).
Frogs by Minter et al. (2004) and Measey (2011).
Butterflies by Mecenero et al. (2013).
Dragonflies and damselflies (i.e. odonata) by Samways (2006).

An atlas and Red Data book for South African scorpion or baboon spider species has not yet
been published. Note that due to spatio-temporal variation in human disturbances, the
conservation status of some species differs between the IUCN, the relevant national Red Data
assessment publication, and the ToPS list. Unless otherwise stated, the most threatened
status of a species is provided (in abbreviated form) in text, whether this is at a global or
national scale.

6.2.4 Limitations
Our visit was limited to a single day and, therefore, not all potentially occurring (especially
nocturnal) species were likely to be detected.
Some species, which are uncommon, small, migratory, secretive or otherwise difficult to
detect may not have been detected even though they were potentially present.

6.3. Impact Assessment


The Impact Assessment (IA) methodology was based on the CSIR Assessment Methodology
template. The IA took was based on the following:
Nature of the impact (direct, indirect and cumulative impact);
Status of the impact (positive, negative or neutral);
Potential intensity (Very High/Fatal Flaw, High, Medium or Low), (Table 6-1);

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Spatial extent (Table 6-2);


Duration (Table 6-3);
Reversibility (highly reversible, moderate reversibility, low reversibility and irreversible);
Irreplaceability of resource (high irreplaceability, moderate, low, resources are
replaceable);
Probability (Table 6-4);
Degree of confidence;
Significance (Table 6-5). Based on the above considerations, the specialist must provide
an overall evaluation of the significance of the potential impact, which should be described
as follows:

Significance rating = Impact magnitude * Probability

Impact Magnitude = Potential Intensity + duration + extent

Table 6-1 Potential Intensity (CSIR)


Potential Intensity Description (negative) Rating Score
Potential to severely impact Human Health
2
(morbidity/mortality); or to lead to Loss of species (fauna Very High/Fatal Flaw 16
and/or flora)
Potential to reduce faunal/flora population or to lead to
severe reduction/alteration of natural process, loss of
3 High 8
livelihoods or sever impact on quality of life , individual
economic loss
Potential to reduce environmental quality air, soil, water.
Medium 4
Potential Loss of habitat, loss of heritage, reduced amenity
Nuisance Medium-Low 2

Negative change with no other consequence Low 1

Potential Intensity Description (positive) Rating Score


Potential Net improvement in human welfare High 8
Potential to improve environmental quality air, soil, water.
Medium 4
Improved individual livelihoods
Potential to lead to Economic Development Medium-Low 2
Potential positive change with no other consequence Low 1
Note that the concept of irreplaceable loss of a resource is to be taken into account in the Potential Intensity score of an
impact

2
Note that a Loss of species is a global issue and is differentiated from a loss of flora/fauna population
3
Note that a visual impact or air emissions for example could be considered as severely impacting on
quality of life should it constitute more than a nuisance but not being life threatening

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Table 6-2 Impact Assessment - Spatial Extent


Extent Description Score
Site specific 1
Local (<2 km from site) 2

Regional (within 30 km of site) 3

National 4

International/Global 5

Table 6-3 Impact Assessment - Duration


Duration Description Score
Temporary (less than 2 year) or duration of the construction
period. This impact is fully reversible. E.g. the construction
1
noise temporary impact that is highly reversible as it will stop at
the end of the construction period

Short term (2 to 5 years). This impact is reversible. 2

Medium term (5 to 15 years). The impact is reversible with the


implementation of appropriate mitigation and management 3
actions.
Long term (> 15 years but where the impact will cease after the
operational life of the activity). The impact is reversible with the
implementation of appropriate mitigation and management
actions. E.g. the noise impact caused by the desalination plant 4
is a long term impact but can be considered to be highly
reversible at the end of the project life, when the project is
decommissioned
Permanent (mitigation will not occur in such a way or in such a
time span that the impact can be considered transient). This
impact is irreversible. E.g. The loss of a palaeontological 5
resource on site caused by construction activities is permanent
and would be irreversible.

Table 6-4 Impact Assessment Probability


Probability Description Score

Improbable (little or no chance of occurring <10%) 0.1

Low Probability(10 - 25% chance of occurring) 0.25

Probable (25 - 50% chance of occurring) 0.5

Highly probable (50 90% chance of occurring) 0.75

Definite (>90% chance of occurring). 1

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Table 6-5 Impact Assessment - Significance


Scoring Significance rating Description
The project cannot be authorised unless major changes
18-26 Fatally flawed to the engineering design are carried out to reduce the
significance rating.
The impacts will result in major alteration to the
environment even with the implementation on the
10-17 High
appropriate mitigation measures and will have an
influence on decision-making.
The impact will result in moderate alteration of the
environment and can be reduced or avoided by
5-9 Medium implementing the appropriate mitigation measures, and
will only have an influence on the decision-making if not
mitigated.
The impact may result in minor alterations of the
environment and can be easily avoided by implementing
<5 Low
appropriate mitigation measures, and will not have an
influence on decision-making.

On completion of the Impact Assessment, where negative impacts are identified, the study
should set mitigation objectives (i.e. ways of avoiding or reducing negative impacts), and
recommend possible mitigation actions. Where no mitigation is feasible, this will be stated and
the reasons given. Where positive impacts are identified, management actions to enhance the
benefit may also be recommended.

7. Terrestrial Biodiversity Results

7.1. Vegetation Communities / Habitats

SANBI frequently collect/collate floral data within Southern Africa and update their PRECIS
database system (National Herbarium Pretoria (PRE) Computerised Information System) which
is captured according to quarter degree squares (QDSs). This is referred to the POSA database.
For this study, the Site falls with 2626BA. This QDG is under sampled as species recorded do
not exceed 65 species (Date extracted March 2016). For the purpose of comparative analysis,
the 2626B set of QDGs was used. This yielded 185 species of 52 families. The dominant
families being, POACEAE, FABACEAE, and ASTERACEAE (Table 7-1), with the herbs
representing 36.76%, graminoids representing 15.14% and dwarf shrubs (woody species)
representing over 12.43% of the total species listed for the area (Table 7-1).

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In terms of the site, structural representation was following the trend presented within the larger
region (2626B QDGs), with forbs (herbs) and graminoids being the most dominant typical of
grassland habitats (Table 7-1).

Table 7-1 Top ten dominant families and most dominant growth forms obtained from the
POSA website for the QDS 2626B and on Site
No. OF % TOTAL
IMPORTANT FAMILIES GROWTH FORMS ON SITE
SPP SPP
POACEAE 28 Herb 36.76 40
FABACEAE 24 Graminoid 15.14 21.54
ASTERACEAE 16 Dwarf shrub 12.43 7.69
APOCYNACEAE 10 Geophyte 8.11 6.15
MALVACEAE 10 Shrub 7.03 6.15
CYPERACEAE 7 Succulent 5.41 7.69
ACANTHACEAE 6 Cyperoid 3.78 1.54
LAMIACEAE 6 Shrub / tree 3.78 -
ANACARDIACEAE 5 Climber / Scrambler 2.7 1.54
ASPHODELACEAE 4 Parasite 2.7 -

7.1.1 Vegetation Communities

From the field investigations the study area was predominantly flat to slightly undulating with
very homogenous vegetation structure. The majority of the site was transformed through
previous mining (excavation) and agricultural practices (Table 7-2, Figure 7-2 and Figure 7-1).
Therefore only slight variations in vegetation structure could be seen with the following habitat
groups being defined (Figure 7-2):
Natural habitat pockets
o Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland
Transformed - Open pit
Transformed
o Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky Grassland (Past Farming)
o Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in recovery)

As mentioned, species variations within the different habitats were slight and therefore species
recorded within the sampling area are grouped and provided in Table 7-3. Common species
through the site included: Brachiaria serrata, Conyza podocephala, Cymbopogon cf. excavatus,
Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis chloromelas, Helichrysum rugulosum, Hermannia depressa,
Ocimum obovatum, Pogonarthria squarrosa, Selago densiflora, Themeda triandra, Trichoneura
grandiglumis and Ziziphus zeyheriana

In addition, within the habitats present on site, alien species were not prevalent.

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Table 7-2 Broad Habitat/Vegetation communities


Vegetation Community Area - Ha Area - % Conservation Significance
Transformed - Open pit 1.11 2.65 Low-None
Transformed: Seriphium- Melinis-
Themeda Rocky Grassland (in recovery) 2.12 5.05 Low-Medium
Transformed: Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky
Grassland (Past Farming) 23.55 56.19 Low
Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky
Grassland 15.14 36.11 Medium

Table 7-3. Plant species identified within the study area


Family Species
EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha cf. angustata Sond.
AMARANTHACEAE Aerva leucura Moq.
HYACINTHACEAE Albuca spp
ASPHODELACEAE Aloe greatheadii Schonland var. davyana (Schonland)
POACEAE Aristida diffusa Trin. subsp. burkei (Stapf) Melderis
ACANTHACEAE Barleria macrostegia Nees
ASTERACEAE Berkheya pinnatifida (Thunb.) Thell. subsp. stobaeoides (Harv.)
ACANTHACEAE Blepharis angusta (Nees) T.Anderson
AMARYLLIDACEAE Boophone disticha (L.f.) Herb.
POACEAE Brachiaria serrata (Thunb.) Stapf
ACANTHACEAE Chaetacanthus costatus Nees
FABACEAE Chamaecrista comosa E.Mey. var. capricornia (Steyaert) Lock
VERBENACEAE Chascanum adenostachyum (Schauer) Moldenke
ASPHODELACEAE Chortolirion angolense (Baker) A.Berger
POACEAE Chrysopogon serrulatus Trin.
COMMELINACEAE Commelina spp
ASTERACEAE Conyza podocephala DC.
ACANTHACEAE Crabbea angustifolia Nees
ACANTHACEAE Crabbea hirsuta Harv.
APOCYNACEAE Cryptolepis oblongifolia (Meisn.) Schltr.
CUCURBITACEAE Cucumis hirsutus Sond.
CUCURBITACEAE Cucumis zeyheri Sond
COMMELINACEAE Cyanotis speciosa (L.f.) Hassk.
POACEAE Cymbopogon cf. excavatus (Hochst.) Stapf ex Burtt Davy (C caesius)
POACEAE Cymbopogon pospischilii (K.Schum.) C.E.Hubb.
POACEAE Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.
CYPERACEAE Cyperus obtusiflorus Vahl var. obtusiflorus
POACEAE Digitaria eriantha Steud.
POACEAE Eragrostis chloromelas Steud.
ASTERACEAE Gazania krebsiana Less. subsp. serrulata (DC.) Roessler
AMARANTHACEAE Gomphrena celosioides Mart.
ASTERACEAE Helichrysum nudifolium (L.) Less. var. nudifolium
ASTERACEAE Helichrysum rugulosum Less.

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Family Species
ASTERACEAE Helichrysum setosum Harv.
ASTERACEAE Helichrysum spp
MALVACEAE Hermannia depressa N.E.Br.
MALVACEAE Hermannia transvaalensis Schinz
MALVACEAE Hibiscus microcarpus Garcke
HYPOXIDACEAE Hypoxis hemerocallidea Fisch., C.A.Mey. & Av-Lall.
FABACEAE Indigofera comosa N.E.Br.
FABACEAE Indigofera spp
CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea ommanneyi Rendle
CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea spp
ACANTHACEAE Justicia anagalloides (Nees) T.Anderson
HYACINTHACEAE Ledebouria spp
VERBENACEAE Lippia cf. rehmannii H.Pearson
POACEAE Melinis repens (Willd.) Zizka
CONVOLVULACEAE Merremia verecunda Rendle
GERANIACEAE Monsonia burkeana Planch. ex Harv.
LAMIACEAE Ocimum obovatum E.Mey. ex Benth. subsp. obovatum var. obovatum
FABACEAE Ophrestia oblongifolia (E.Mey.) H.M.L.Forbes var. oblongifolia
POLYGONACEAE Oxygonum dregeanum Meisn. subsp. canescens
POACEAE Pogonarthria squarrosa (Roem. & Schult.) Pilg.
PORTULACACEAE Portulaca cf. quadrifida L.
RUBIACEAE Pygmaeothamnus zeyheri (Sond.) Robyns
SCROPHULARIACEAE Selago densiflora Rolfe
ASTERACEAE Senecio venosus Harv.
ASTERACEAE Seriphium plumosum
Setaria sphacelata (Schumach.) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. ex M.B.Moss var.
POACEAE sphacelata
POACEAE Sporobolus spp
POACEAE Themeda triandra Forssk.
POACEAE Trichoneura grandiglumis (Nees) Ekman
ASTERACEAE Ursinia nana DC. subsp. leptophylla Prassler
RHAMNACEAE Ziziphus zeyheriana Sond.
FABACEAE Zornia milneana Mohlenbr.

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Figure 7-1 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area.

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Transformed - Open pit Seriphium - Berkheya Rocky Grassland

Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in


recovery)
Figure 7-2 Photographs of the different habitats within the bounds of the study area

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Ziziphus zeyheri Barleria cf. macrostegia

Chaetacanthus costatus Berkheya pinnatifida

Cyanotis speciosa Chortolirion angolense


Figure 7-3. Examples of indigenous plant species on site

7.1.2 Conservation Important Species


It is well documented that heterogeneous landscapes, diverse geology and a range of
environmental conditions, provide a diverse number of habitats for plant species (Pickett,
et.al. 1997; OFarrell, 2006; KNNCS, 1999). These areas are normally associated with high
levels of species endemism and richness. For example, at least 74% of the 23 threatened
Highveld plant taxa occur on the crests and slopes of ridges and hills (Pfab & Victor 2002).

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However, homogenous landscapes, either natural or that have been transformed through
historical farming practices and infrastructural development contain minimal diversity and
endemism. The current site has been affected within the past (at least the past 20 years) by
agricultural practices and those pockets that remain semi-natural are limited in terms of
habitat heterogeneity. Although considered a brief Eco Scan report, NSS has included a
section on Conservation Important (CI) species that were detected or could possibly be
detected on site. Within this section the CI species are discussed. These include the
National Threatened Plant Species Programme (TSP) lists, any Protected species according
to the Nature Conservation Ordinance (12 of 1983) and any specific Endemic or Rare
species.

The Threatened Plant Species Programme (TSP) is an ongoing assessment that revises all
threatened plant species assessments made by Craig Hilton-Taylor (1996), using IUCN Red
Listing Criteria modified from Davis et al. (1986). According to the TSP Red Data list of
South African plant taxa (accessed March 2016), there are 46 Red Data listed species
(Table 7-4) within North West Province (including Data Deficient species) of which 2 species
are Critically Endangered (CR), 4 Endangered (EN) and 8 are Vulnerable (VU).

Table 7-4 Numbers of conservation important plant species per Red Data category within
South Africa and North West (date accessed: March 2016)
SOUTH
NORTH
THREAT STATUS AFRIC 2626B
WEST
A

EX (Extinct) 28 - 0
EW (Extinct in the wild) 7 - 0
CR PE (Critically Endangered, Possibly Extinct) 57 - 0
CR (Critically Endangered) 332 2 0
EN (Endangered) 716 4 0
VU (Vulnerable) 1 217 8 0
NT (Near Threatened) 402 8 2
Critically Rare (known to occur only at a single site) 153 1 0
Rare (Limited population but not exposed to any direct or
1 212 4 0
potential threat)
Declining (not threatened but processes are causing a continuing
47 7 0
decline in the population)
LC (Least Concern) 13 856 1935 124
DDD (Data Deficient - Insufficient Information) 348 - 0
DDT (Data Deficient - Taxonomically Problematic) 904 12 1
Total spp (including those not evaluated) 23 399 2416 141
**Date accessed March 2016

From the POSA website (QDS 2626B) 1 CI species has been recorded in the Study Region.
This is the Near Threatened Cleome conrathii. A rare species recorded from central Gauteng
into the North West Province and the Kuruman District in northern Cape Province. It occurs

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on stony slopes, usually on sandy soil. The possibility of this species occurring on site
(based on habitat requirements) is considered unlikely. The Carltonville Dolomitic
Grasslands are also known to house the DDT Delosperma davyi and the EN Habenaria
mossii. Delosperma davyi is known to occur on dolomite rocks at the edge of dense, shady
scrub above river lines and Habenaria mossii prefers open grassland on dolomite or in black
sandy soil. Both species have not been recorded this far west of Gauteng and the possibility
of occurrence on site is Unlikely.

The Declining Boophone disticha and the Declining Hypoxis hemerocallidea were, however,
identified on Site (Figure 7-4). These are also considered Protected species under the
Nature Conservation Ordinance, 12 of 1983. Protected Species may not be cut, disturbed,
damaged, destroyed without obtaining a permit from North West Province or a delegated
authority.

Boophone disticha Hypoxis hemerocallidea


Figure 7-4 Photographs of Conservation Important plant species on Site

7.2. Fauna

Habitat diversity within the small relatively flat chert-dominated Kwaggaslaagte site is low
and as such a low faunal diversity is expected to occur. In spite of this a number of
Conservation Important Species (CIS) may utilise the site albeit sporadically. Few (if any)
are likely to be resident and most CIS will not be dependent on the site.

In total nine mammal, 32 bird, 5 reptile, 6 butterfly and one scorpion species were detected
on site during the ecoscan. These, mostly widespread and common species are presented
in Table 7-5. Some examples illustrated in Figure 7-5. Lists of potentially occurring faunal
species for the study area (based on nation-wide distribution maps and habitat availability
are presented in Appendices 1-6.

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Cape Gecko Cape Gecko Wahlberg's Snake-eyed Holubs Sandveld Lizard


(Pachydactylus capensis) (Pachydactylus capensis) Skink (Afroablepharus (Nucras holubi)
juvenile adult wahlbergii)

Northern Black Korhaan Barn Swallow Anteating Chat Banded Martin


(Afrotis afraoides) (Hirundo rustica) (Myrmecocichla (Riparia cincta)
formicivora)

Cape Ground Squirrel Aardvark Stinger scorpions Dotted blue


(Xerus inauris) (Orycteropus afer) (Uroplectes triangulifer) (Tarucus sybaris sybaris)
Figure 7-5. Examples of faunal species on site

Table 7-5. Faunal species detected on site


SPECIES COMMON NAME SPECIES COMMON NAME
Mammals
Orycteropus afer Aardvark Tatera brantsii Highveld Gerbil
Lepus sp. Hare Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose
Cryptomys hottentotus Common Mole-rat Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker
Hystrix africaeaustralis Porcupine Raphicerus campestris Steenbok
Xerus inauris Cape Ground Squirrel
Birds
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret Spreo bicolor Pied Starling
White-browed Sparrow-
Falco amurensis Amur Falcon Plocepasser mahali weaver
Vanellus coronatus Crowned Lapwing Passer melanurus Cape Sparrow
Columba guinea Speckled Pigeon Sporopipes squamifrons Scaly-feathered Finch
Streptopelia
senegalensis Laughing Dove Ploceus velatus Southern Masked-weaver
White-backed
Colius colius Mousebird Quelea quelea Red-billed Quelea

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SPECIES COMMON NAME SPECIES COMMON NAME


Chersomanes
albofasciata Spike-heeled Lark Euplectes afer Yellow-crowned Bishop
Calandrella cinerea Red-capped Lark Amadina erythrocephala Red-headed Finch
Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow Ortygospiza atricollis African Quailfinch
Greater Striped-
Hirundo cucullata swallow Serinus atrogularis Black-throated Canary
Riparia cincta Banded Martin Columba livia Rock Dove
Myrmecocichla
formicivora Anteating Chat Afrotis afraoides Northern Black Korhaan
Cisticola textrix Cloud Cisticola Mirafra fasciolata Eastern Clapper Lark
Southern Greyheaded
Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike Passer diffusus Sparrow
Acridotheres tristis Common Myna Cisticola ayresii Wing-snapping Cisticola
Lamprotornis nitens Cape Glossy Starling Alopochen aegyptiacus Egyptian Goose
Reptiles
Pachydactylus Afroablepharus Wahlberg's Snake-eyed
capensis Cape Gecko wahlbergii Skink
Holubs Sandveld
Nucras holubi Lizard Trachylepis varia Variable Skink
Gerrhosaurus Yellow-throated Plated
flavigularis Lizard
Butterflies
Danaus chrysippus
Belenois aurota Brown-veined white orientis African monarch
Junonia orithya
Catopsilia florella African migrant madagascariensis Eyed pansy
Broad-bordered grass
Eurema brigitta brigitta yellow Tarucus sybaris sybaris Dotted blue
Scorpions
Uroplectes triangulifer Stinger scorpions

7.2.1 Mammals
Some 60 species are likely to occur based on habitat and distribution (LO of 1, 2 or 3 in
Appendix 1) of which sixteen are known to occur in the QDS (MammalMap, 2016). Nine
mammal species were detected on site (Table 7-6) only one of which is considered to be of
conservation importance namely Aardvark (PS). Fourteen of the 16 regionally occurring non-
game CIS are likely to occur (LO value of 2 or 3 in Table 7-6) albeit mostly non-resident and
fleeting.

Three NT bat species Geoffroy's Horseshoe Bat, Darling's Horseshoe Bat and Natal Long-
fingered Bat may utilise the site for foraging. Although no suitable subterranean roosting
habitat exists on site for these species (cherty flats), a large dolomitic outcrop situated 7.8
km east holds several significant cave systems which are known to support large numbers of
horseshoe bats (pers. obs). The distribution of White Tailed Rat (EN) overlaps the site.
However, one major requirement of this grassland species, namely dense vegetation cover
(Skinner & Chimimba, 2005; Coetzee & Monadjem, 2008.), is distinctly lacking. All seven
naturally occurring CI carnivore species may occur sporadically, but are likely sparse and
under pressure from farmers and local communities. The presence of Aardvark, a recent

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addition to the ToPS (2015) list (PS), was confirmed based on burrows encountered on site.
Southern African Hedgehog may well occur on site. Hedgehogs inhabit a diversity of habitats
in the temperate to semi-arid interior of South Africa where there is thick, dry vegetation
cover suitable for nesting, and an abundance of insects and other food items (Skinner &
Chimimba 2005; Stuart & Stuart 2007). Although widespread, hedgehogs are nowhere
common. Tiny Musk Shrew and Swamp Musk Shrew are precluded by marginal distribution
and a lack of marshy habitat respectively.

Table 7-6. Present and potentially occurring CI mammal species


CONSERVATION STATUS

6
2,4,6
1

ATLAS
ORDER & 2,4
2,4 COMMON NAME GLOBAL 2 S.A.

LoO
SPECIES 5 ATLAS 3
IUCN NEM:BA
EULIPOTYPHLA (Hedgehogs & shrews)
Crocidura mariquensis Swamp Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 4
Crocidura fuscomurina Tiny Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 4
Crocidura hirta Lesser Red Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 2
Atelerix frontalis Southern African Hedgehog LC (S) NT - 2
CHIROPTERA (Bats)
Rhinolophus clivosus Geoffroy's Horseshoe Bat LC (U) NT - 2
Rhinolophus darlingi Darling's Horseshoe Bat LC (U) NT - 2
Miniopterus natalensis Natal Long-fingered Bat LC (U) NT - 2
RODENTIA (Rodents)
Mystromys
3
albicaudatus White-tailed Rat EN (D) EN -
CARNIVORA (Carnivores)
Hyaena brunnea Brown Hyaena NT (D) NT PS 3
Panthera pardus Leopard NT (D) LC PS 2
Felis nigripes Black-footed Cat VU (D) LC PS 3
Otocyon megalotis Bat-eared Fox LC (U) LC PS 2
Vulpes chama Cape Fox LC (S) LC PS 2
Mellivora capensis Honey Badger LC (D) NT - 3
Poecilogale albinucha African Weasel LC (U) DD - 2
TUBULIDENTATA (Aardvark)
Orycteropus afer Aardvark LC (U) LC PS 1
PERISSODACTYLA (Zebras & Rhinoceros)
Ceratotherium simum White Rhinoceros NT (I) LC PS 5
Black Rhinoceros - North-
Diceros bicornis 5
eastern Race CR (I) VU EN
Equus zebra zebra Cape Mountain Zebra VU (U) VU VU 5 x
Equus quagga Plains Zebra LC (S) LC PS* 5 x
RUMINATA (Even-toed ungulates)
Connochaetes gnou Black Wildebeest LC (I) LC PS* 5 x
Connochaetes taurinus Blue Wildebeest LC (S) LC PS* 5 x
Alcelaphus buselaphus Red Hartebeest LC (D) LC PS* 5 x
Damaliscus pygargus
phillipsi Blesbok LC (S)* LC PS* 5 x
Key
Status: CR = Critically Endangered; D = Declining; DD = Data Deficient; EN = Endangered; I = Increasing; LC = Least
Concern; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected Species; S = Stable; U = Unknown; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low; 5 = May occur as a managed
population

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CONSERVATION STATUS

6
2,4,6
1

ATLAS
ORDER & 2,4
2,4 COMMON NAME GLOBAL 2 S.A.

LoO
SPECIES 5 ATLAS 3
IUCN NEM:BA
1 2 3 4 5
Sources: Stuart & Stuart (2007); Friedmann & Daly (2004); ToPS List (2015); Monadjem et al. (2010); IUCN
6
(2013.1); MammalMap (2016)
*Listed on ToPS (2015) as Protected Game

7.2.2 Birds
Fewer than 300 bird species are likely to occur regionally. Collated data from the SABAP 1
and 2 list 226 for the relevant pentad 2600_2630. The number of species actually likely to
occur on site (ca. 200 species; in Appendix 2) is limited by the lack of open waterbodies,
wetlands and rocky outcrops. As such the bird community on site is characterised by
common and widespread grassland species (Table 7-7).

No CI bird species or signs thereof were detected on site. Of the 19 regionally occurring CIS
only six are likely to be encountered sporadically namely Cape Vulture (EN) and White-
backed Vulture (EN), Secretarybird (NT), Blue Crane (VU), Red-footed Falcon (NT) and
Melodious Lark (NT). With the exception of Melodious Lark these species are only likely to
utilise the site occasionally from a foraging perspective. Melodious Lark typically favours
short climax grassland with an abundance of bare patches between tufts (Hockey et al.
2006). On site the species is most likely to occur in areas of the site associated with the
Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland vegetation community especially those
along the western boundary.

Table 7-7. Present and potentially occurring CI bird species


CONSERVATION STATUS
1 3 4

ATLAS
CATEGORY & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
3 5 2
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA

2. Inland water birds LO


Mycteria ibis Yellow-billed Stork LC (D) EN/LC - 4 x
Ciconia nigra Black Stork LC (U) VU/LC - 4 x
Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo LC (I) NT/LC - 4 x
Phoenicopterus minor Lesser Flamingo NT (D) NT/NT - 4
Glareola nordmanni Black-winged Pratincole NT (D) NT/NT - 4 x
3. Ducks & wading birds
Oxyura maccoa Maccoa Duck NT (D) NT/NT - 4
Rostratula benghalensis Greater Painted-snipe LC (D) VU/LC - 4
4. Large terrestrial birds
Sagittarius serpentarius Secretarybird VU (D) VU/VU - 3
Anthropoides paradiseus Blue Crane VU (S) NT/VU PS 3 x
Eupodotis senegalensis White-bellied Korhaan LC (D) VU/LC - 4
5. Raptors
Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture VU (D) EN/VU EN 3 x
Gyps africanus White-backed Vulture EN (D) EN/EN EN 3 x
Torgos tracheliotos Lappet-faced Vulture VU (D) EN/VU EN 4 x
Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon LC (I) VU/LC - 4
Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon NT (D) NT/NT - 3

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CONSERVATION STATUS
1 3 4

ATLAS
CATEGORY & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
3 5 2
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA

LO
Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle VU (D) EN/VU EN 4
Circus ranivorus African Marsh-harrier LC (D) EN/LC PS 4
9. Cryptic & elusive insect-eaters
Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark NT (D) LC/NT - 2 x
Agulhas Long-billed
Certhilauda brevirostris Lark LC (S) NT/NR - 4 x
Key
Status: D = Declining; EN = Endangered; I = Increasing; LC = Least Concern; NB = Non-breeding; NR =
Not Recognised by Birdlife International; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected Species; S = Stable; U =
Unknown population trend; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low
1 2 3 4 5
Sources: Newman (2002); ToPS List (2016); IUCN (2013.1); SABAP (2016); Taylor (2015)

7.2.3 Reptiles
ReptileMap (2016) lists five species for the QDS covering the study area but as many as ca.
30 reptile species may occur. During the site visit five species were detected four of which
represent additional species not recorded in ReptileMap (2016). Cape Gecko and Variable
Skink were by far the most ubiquitous species on site (numerous individuals of varying age
classes and eggs were encountered under rocks). Wahlberg's Snake-eyed Skink, Holubs
Sandveld Lizard, and Yellow-throated Plated Lizard were encountered less frequently.

No Red Data reptile species are likely to occur but the site may support three South African
endemics namely Thin-tailed Legless Skink, Eastern Ground Agama and Aurora Snake,
none of which were detected (Appendix 3).

7.2.4 Frogs
FrogMap (2016) lists 7 species for the QDS covering the study area and as many as 14 are
known to occur regionally. However the lack any open water bodies, streams or marshes on
site preclude the presence of at least five of these species. Species that are likely occur on
site are generally those that are less strictly tied to permanent water bodies and often found
some distance from water such as Bushveld Rain Frog, Eastern Olive Toad, Guttural Toad,
Red Toad, Snoring Puddle Frog, Boettgers Caco and Tremolo Sand Frog. Giant Bullfrog
(NT) may occur based on distribution, however no suitable breeding habitat was observed
on site. A pan that may provide potentially suitable breeding habitat is located 2.9 km south
of the site. As such dispersing juveniles or foraging individuals may occasionally move
across the site.

7.2.5 Terrestrial Macro-invertebrates.


Just less than 60 butterfly species (Appendix 5) are likely to occur based on distribution
(Henning et al. 2009; Mecenero et al. 2013). LepiMap (2016) lists only one species for the
QDS covering the study area. During the site visit six species were detected. No CIS are

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likely to occur on site. Although Potchefstroom Blue may occur (recognised as a LC


Endemic Rare Habitat Specialist) the species is not of conservation concern and it is
unlikely that the project will adversely affect this species as large tracts of similar habitat
occur for some distance on all sides of the site.

The stinger scorpion Uroplectes triangulifer was frequently encountered inhabiting shallow
scrapes beneath rocks on site. The species is known to enter houses but is not medically
important. Other species likely to occur on site include the stinger scorpion Uroplectes
carinatus and the burrowing scorpions Opistopthalmus pugnax and Opistopthalmus
carinatus. The latter two were formerly recognised as Protected under the old ToPS (2007)
but have since been omitted from the ToPS (2015) lists. The distribution ranges of
Parabuthus mossambicensis and Pseudolychas pegleri overlap the study area (Leeming,
2003) but are likely precluded by a lack of sandy soils and trees / surface debris
respectively.

At least two baboon spider species are reported to occur in the North-west Province
Harpactirella flavipilosa and Pterinochilus crassispinus (Dippenaar-Schoeman, 2002) (Table
7-8). As with the aforementioned scorpions although Pterinochilus spp. were formerly
recognised as Protected under the old ToPS (2007) they have since been removed from the
ToPS (2015) lists. Despite extensive searching no baboon spiders nor their burrows were
detected on site.

Table 7-8. Present and potentially occurring CI arachnid species


2,3 2,3 1 2,3
SPECIES & FAMILY COMMON NAME STATUS LO
SCORPIONIDAE
Opistopthalmus pugnax Burrowing scorpions PS* 2
Opistopthalmus carinatus Burrowing scorpions PS* 2
THERAPHOSIDAE
Pterinochilus crassispinus PS*
Key
Status: NT = Near-threatened; PS = Protected Species; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low
1 2 3
Sources: ToPS (2007); Leeming (2003); Dippenaar-Schoeman (2002)
*Old ToPS (2007) list status,ToPS (2015) no longer lists these species as Protected.

8. Areas of Significance

The Site Significance assessment, which includes a significance map for terrestrial
biodiversity on the site, was based on the findings from the ecological scan, as well as
relevant international, national and provincial planning and other biodiversity conservation
initiatives as described below.

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8.1. International Areas of Significance

On an International level the site does not fall into any:


Ramsar Sites
World Heritage Sites
Important Bird Areas (IBAs)

8.2. National and Regional Areas of Significance

On a National level the site does not fall into any (refer to Figure 8-1 and Figure 8-2):
Protected Areas
Considerable international, regional and national legislation and guidelines promote
the protection of biodiversity. This includes the National Environmental Management:
Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA; Act 57 of 2003), which is focussed on the
conservation management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africas
biological diversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes. There are no Protected
areas within or surrounding the site.
Terrestrial Priority Areas & Threatened Ecosystems
Nine terrestrial Priority Areas were identified for conservation in South Africa (Driver et
al., 2004). These Priority Areas were allocated where broad-scale habitat remained
unprotected, or was inadequately conserved. Threatened Ecosystems within each
Priority Area was gazetted on 9 December 2011 in the National Environmental
Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA; Act 10 of 2004). The identified Threatened
Ecosystems occupy 9.5% of South Africa. The site does not fall within either Priority or
Threatened Ecosystems.
Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (FEPAs)
The National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area (NFEPA) project (Driver et al., 2011)
provides strategic spatial priorities for conserving freshwater ecosystems and
supporting sustainable use of water resources in South Africa. There were no NFEPAs
located on or surrounding the site.

On a Regional level the following was considered:


North West Conservation Plan (NW:C Plan 2012).
The NW:C Plan was based on a provincial Biodiversity Assessment (Desmet et al.
2009), and provides important guidance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable
development in the province. Among other things, the C Plan will be used to inform the
development of provincial biodiversity Sector Plans, bioregional plans, Spatial
Development Frameworks (SDFs), Environmental Management Frameworks (EMFs),
Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) and the Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) process in the province.

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According to the NW:C Plan, the study area (Figure 8-3) is situated in a Category 1
Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA 1). CBAs are areas of the landscape that need to be
maintained in a natural or near-natural state to ensure the continued existence and
functioning of species and ecosystems, and the delivery of ecosystem services. If
these areas are not maintained in a natural or near-natural state, then biodiversity
conservation targets cannot be met. Maintaining an area in a natural state can include
a variety of biodiversity-compatible land uses and resource uses. Similarly to Protected
Areas, Category 1 CBAs also include natural landscapes where:
o Ecosystems and species remain fully intact and undisturbed;
o These are areas with high irreplaceabilility or low flexibility in terms of meeting
biodiversity pattern targets. If the biodiversity features targeted in these areas
are lost then targets will not be met.
o These are landscapes that are at or past their limits of acceptable change.

8.3. Local Areas of Significance


A map was compiled based on the above and ecoscan assessment to depict local Areas of
Significance for the conservation of terrestrial flora and fauna (Figure 8-4). Areas of
significance include areas that have been highlighted because of their:
Ecological sensitivity (including renewability/success for rehabilitation);
Level/Extent of disturbance.
Presence of CI species (identified at the vegetation unit/habitat level); and
Conservation value (at a regional, national, provincial and local scale);

Identified habitat units within the study site were ranked into High, Medium-high, Medium,
Medium-low or Low classes in terms of significance. This was undertaken according to a
sensitivity-value analysis (scoring in Table 8-1) and included input based on knowledge of
the area, on the ground investigations and experience when dealing with ecological systems
and processes. A summary overview of scoring the Areas of Local Conservation
Significance is presented in Table 8-2 and illustrated in Figure 8-4.

Table 8-1. Scoring Range for the Areas of Significance


Category Scoring Range
Upper Lower
High 15 11
Moderate - High 10.9 7
Moderate 6.9 3
Moderate - Low 2.9 -1
Low -1.1 -5
Low to None No Rating (no habitat remains)

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Table 8-2 Descriptions and ratings of the various Areas of Significance
Vegetation Type Ecological Conservation Value Presence of CI Level/Extent of Disturbance Total
Sensitivity (Rating 1-5) species* (Rating -1-5) Score
(Rating 1-5) (Rating 1-5)
Yes (2) Flora:
Declining Signs of disturbances such as cattle
Signs of a typical Carltonville Dolomitic
species grazing, frequent burning.
Themeda-Ziziphus- Grassland indicative of the species
Fauna: Moderate
Seriphium Rocky Mod-Low (2) recorded.
Potentially If alien species present, they are mainly (5)
Grassland
Melodious Lark, weedy species such as Gomphrena.
Within a North West Province CBA1. (2)
South African (-1)
Hedgehog;
Possible (1) A number of Pioneer species present
lower ranked such as Melinis repens, Signs of
species disturbances such as past farming
Transformed: Some recovery showing Carltonville
practices (dating back prior to 1985)
Seriphium- Melinis- and cattle grazing as well as frequent Moderate
Dolomitic Grassland species
Themeda Rocky Mod-Low (2) burning. Low
Grassland (in (2.5)
Within a North West Province CBA1. (2)
recovery) If alien species present, they are
dominated by weedy species, with
some invasives.
(-2.5)
Floral: Unlikely A number of Pioneer species present as
Fallow fields with some recovery and due to all the well as woody encroacher species such
Transformed: limited weedy species present Less past tillage as Seriphium (although not extensive
Seriphium -
diverse that the Themeda-Ziziphus- practices over the site), Low (-
Berkheya Rocky Low (1)
Seriphium Rocky Grassland Past farming practices (dating back 1.5)
Grassland (Past
Fauna: Possible prior to 1985) have altered the
Farming)
Within a North West Province CBA1. (1) (1) vegetation structure and habitat

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Vegetation Type Ecological Conservation Value Presence of CI Level/Extent of Disturbance Total
Sensitivity (Rating 1-5) species* (Rating -1-5) Score
(Rating 1-5) (Rating 1-5)
If alien species present, they are
dominated by weedy species, with
some invasives.
(-4.5)
Completely transformed through
Transformed - None excavations no current rating, unless Highly Unlikely No vegetation structure remaining
Low-
Open pit None
rehabilitated

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Figure 8-1 National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas in the Study Area

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Figure 8-2 Threatened Ecosystems and SANBI Priority Areas

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Figure 8-3 North West Biodiversity Conservation Assessment

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Figure 8-4 On Site Significance

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9. Impact Assessment & Recommendations

Although the site is small, and relatively transformed through past agricultural practices, a
number of potential impacts could still occur. These impacts are discussed below. A
summary of these impacts with significance ratings is provided in Table 9-2.

9.1. Construction and Operational Phases

9.1.1 Direct loss of terrestrial vegetation and faunal habitat


The loss of Medium to Low Significance habitat will occur due to site clearance and
continued mining of the pit. Habitats to be lost are:
Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in recovery)
Transformed: Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky Grassland (Past Farming)
Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland

Fragmentation of these habitats is seen as negligible due to the scale of the development.

9.1.2 Faunal Mortality and Displacement (including CI species)


The loss or displacement of fossorial and less mobile species is highly probably as a result
of site clearing, blasting and continuous movement of vehicle traffic. To a lesser extent, this
impact extends to snaring and poaching.

For example, although not detected during the survey, Giant Bullfrog is highly likely to occur
within the area and therefore aestivating individuals may be unearthed during
construction/operation and dispersing frogs may enter the site during the rainy season. This
species will be prone to road kill and persecution.

9.1.3 Loss of CI floral species


TSP listed Declining floral species such as Boophone disticha and Hypoxis hemerocallidea
were detected on site and may be damaged or destroyed during construction. These species
also hold cultural/medicinal significance and may be further harvested during operations in
the surrounding area, thereby depleting the surrounding populations of Conservation
Important species.

9.1.4 Introduction of Alien (Plant) and Feral - Pest (Faunal) Species


Although alien plant species are limited on site, these may be introduced through soil
transport or disturbance during construction and operation.

An influx of pest - feral animals is expected to accompany the influx of people on site. This is
likely to have an impact on, for example, small carnivores and ground nesting birds.

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9.1.5 Sensory Disturbances affecting behavioural patterns


Sensory Disturbances to fauna may be caused by noise, blasting, dust and light pollution.
These can affect behavioural patterns and interfere with life history strategies such as
breeding etc. This mainly impacts on taxa such as potentially occurring avifauna (Secretary
Birds, Blue Crane, Melodious Lark) and mammals such as the South African Hedgehog.

9.2. Decommissioning Phase

9.2.1 Continued Degradation of Habitat


If no rehabilitation and monitoring efforts are implemented (i.e. no rehabilitation of the open
pit), there will be continued degradation of Carltonville Dolomitic Grassland Habitat.

9.2.2 Creation of Artificial (suboptimal) habitat


The inactive pit and associated overburden/ rocks may in time provide alternative habitat
(albeit suboptimal) for biodiversity (e.g. Typha and Phragmites establishment and therefore
an influx of water birds around water accumulations within the pit/s)

9.2.3 Proliferation of Alien Species


If no rehabilitation and monitoring efforts are implemented, it is likely that any alien species
that were established during operation will continue after closure and spread to surrounding
areas.

9.3. Management and Mitigatory Recommendations

Management and Mitigatory Recommendations are highlighted within Table 9-3 below. With
Mitigation measures implemented, the significance of most impacts on site from an
ecological perspective are reduced to a Low Significance as highlighted in below.

Table 9-1. A Summary of Impacts and Significance with Mitigation

POTENTIAL IMPACTS MITIGATION STATUS SIGNIFICANCE


CONSTRUCTION & OPERATION
Direct loss of terrestrial vegetation and faunal habitat
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low
Faunal Mortality and Displacement (including CI species)
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low
Loss of CI floral species
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low
Introduction of Alien (Plant) and Feral - Pest (Faunal) Species
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low

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POTENTIAL IMPACTS MITIGATION STATUS SIGNIFICANCE


Sensory Disturbances affecting behavioural patterns
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low
DECOMMISSIONING
Continued Loss/Degradation of Habitat
Without Negative Medium
With Negative Low
Creation of Artificial (suboptimal) habitat
Without Positive Low
With Positive Medium
Proliferation of Alien Species

Without Negative Medium


With Negative Low

10. Concluding Remarks

With the implementation of the mitigation measures suggested in this report, the significance
of most impacts on site from an ecological perspective are considered to be of Low
Significance. Based on the information available to date, with the brief field scan of the site,
it is NSSs opinion that there are no fatal flaws to the project and that provided the mitigation
set out is adhered to and that the developer shows commitment to the sustainable
development, NSS have no objections to the project going forward.

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Table 9-2. Impact Assessment

POTENTIAL IMPACTS MITIGATION STATUS EXTENT EXTENT DURATION DURATION INTENSITY INTENSITY REVERSIBILITY IRREPLACEABILITY PROBABILITY PROBABILITY SIGNIFICANCE CONFIDENCE CONFIDENCE
RATING SCORE RATING SCORE RATING SCORE RATING RATING RATING SCORE RATING SCORE RATING SCORE
CONSTRUCTION & OPERATION
Direct loss of terrestrial vegetation and faunal habitat
Loss of Medium to Low Significance habitat due to site
clearance and continued mining of the pit. Habitats to
be lost are:
Seriphium- Melinis- Themeda Rocky Grassland (in
recovery)
Without Negative Site specific 1 Long term (>15 years) 4 Medium 4 Low reversibility Low irreplaceability Definite (>90% chance) 1 Medium 9 High 3

Transformed: Seriphium -Berkheya Rocky Grassland


(Past Farming)
Themeda-Ziziphus-Seriphium Rocky Grassland

Fragmentation of these habitats is seen as negligible With Negative Site specific 1 Long term (>15 years) 4 Medium-low 2 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 4 Medium 2
due to the scale of the development
Faunal Mortality and Displacement (including CI species)

Loss or displacement of fossorial and less mobile


species is highly probably as a result of site clearing,
blasting and continuous movement of vehicle traffic. To
a lesser extent, this impact extends to snaring and
poaching.
E.g. Giant Bullfrog Without Negative Local (<2km from site) 2 Medium term (5-15 years) 3 Low 1 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 5 High 3
Although not detected during the survey, this species is
highly likely to occur within the area and therefore
aestivating individuals may be unearthed during
construction/operation and dispersing frogs may enter
site during the rainy season. This species will be
prone to road kill and persecution.
With Negative Site specific 1 Short term (2-5 years) 2 Low 1 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 2 Medium 2
Loss of CI floral species
Negative
Declining species were detected on site and may be
damaged or destroyed during construction. These Without
species also hold cultural/medicinal significance and Local (<2km from site) 2 Permanent 5 Low 1 Low reversibility Moderate irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 6 High 3
may be further harvested during operations
With Negative Site specific 1 Temporary (<2 years) 1 Low 1 Moderate reversibility Moderate irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Low 2 Medium 2
Introduction of Alien (Plant) and Feral - Pest (Faunal) Species

Although alien plant species are limited on site, these


may be introduced through soil transport or
disturbance.
Without Negative Local (<2km from site) 2 Long term (>15 years) 4 Medium-low 2 Low reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 6 High 3
An influx of pest - feral animals is expected to
accompany the influx of people on site. This is likely to
have an impact on, for example, small carnivores and
ground nesting birds
With Negative Site specific 1 Temporary (<2 years) 1 Low 1 High reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 2 High 3
Sensory Disturbances affecting behavioural patterns

Sensory Disturbances to fauna caused by noise,


blasting, dust and light pollution. These can affect
behavioural patterns and interferes with life history
Without Negative Local (<2km from site) 2 Long term (>15 years) 4 Medium 4 High reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 8 Medium 2
strategies such as breeding etc. This mainly impacts
on taxa such as potentially occurring avifauna
(Secretary Birds, Blue Crane, Melodious Lark) and
mammals such as South African Hedgehog
With Negative Local (<2km from site) 2 Medium term (5-15 years) 3 Low 1 High reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 3 Medium 2
DECOMMISSIONING
Continued Loss/Degradation of Habitat
Continued Loss/Degradation of Carltonville Dolomitic Negative
Grassland Habitat due to no rehabilitation and Without
monitoring efforts Site specific 1 Permanent 5 Medium-low 2 Low reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 6 Medium 2
With Negative Site specific 1 Temporary (<2 years) 1 Low 1 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 2 Medium 2
Creation of Artificial (suboptimal) habitat
Positive
The inactive pit and associated overburden/ rocks may
in time provide habitat (albeit suboptimal) for Without
biodiversity (e.g. Typha and waterbirds around water Site specific 1 Permanent 5 Low 1 Low reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Low 4 Medium 2
accumulations within the pit/s)
With Positive Site specific 1 Long term (>15 years) 4 Low 1 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Medium 5 Medium 2
Proliferation of Alien Species
Negative
As no rehabilitation and monitoring is expected (no
mitigation measures implemented), it is likely that any
Without
alien species that were established during operation
will continue after closure - if no monitoring is put in Local (<2km from site) 2 Long term (>15 years) 4 Medium 4 Moderate reversibility Low irreplaceability Probable (25-50% chance) 0.5 Medium 5 High 3
place.
With Negative Site specific 1 Short term (2-5 years) 2 Low 1 High reversibility Low irreplaceability Highly probable (50-90% chance) 0.75 Low 3 Medium 2

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Table 9-3. Management and Mitigatory Recommendations

OBJECTIVE / TARGET MITIGATION / MANAGEMENT ACTION MONITORING


METHODOLOGY FREQUENCY RESPONSIBILITY
CONSTRUCTION & OPERATION
Direct loss of terrestrial vegetation and faunal habitat
Vegetation clearing will occur. The *Infrastructural footprint must be clearly demarcated and fenced *Fencing onsite during construction At the onset Construction Team
objective is therefore to ensure that there *Ensure construction crew are aware of the development For every new team or Environmental
is no 'spill over' effects in surrounding boundary *Through the Induction Process team member arriving on Officer (EO)
habitats. I.e. Keep the disturbance to the *Diciplinary action implemented for any construction activities * Procedure enforced through Joint - EO and
exact footprint as per approved layouts outside these zones Diciplinary Code As and when required Human Resources
EO, Landscape
*Restore to similar habitat structure prior to development - ie. designer, Ecologist
create a rocky habitat during rehabilitation. Keep the rock at * Implementation through a and on the ground
surface (not all embedded) Rehabilitation Programme As and when required team
EO, Landscape
designer, Ecologist
*As per topsoil stockpiling, stockpile surface rock for future * Implementation through a and on the ground
rehabilitation Rehabilitation Programme As and when required team
EO, Landscape
*Create potential new habitat during rehabilitation - During rehabilitation of designer, Ecologist
depressions to allow surface water build up (perhaps 2m deep * Implementation through a areas - As and when and on the ground
and sloped) Rehabilitation Programme required team
Faunal Mortality and Displacement (including CI species)
To reduce mortality rates and continued *Collect specimens prior to clearance and remove to *Commission an Ecologist to remove Senior
displacement of fauna in the surrounding surrounding areas and relocate species Prior to construction Management
areas *Plan for future emergence of species on site - providing *Environmental -Ecological Plan to be created on the
protocol and contact details Procedure /Plan onset of the project EO and Ecologist
*Ensure snake removals are conducted when these species are *Contract a specialist offsite or train EO and Snake
detected by the team on site the EO for removal of snakes onsite As and when required Handler
For every new team or
*Incorporate into the Induction team member arriving on EO and Senior
* Education of teams on site on biodiversity process site Management
* Create speed bumps entering site as well as ensure road *Through Engineering design for the
designs minimise pooling on surface site roads and infrastructure Prior to Construction Engineering and EO
Loss of CI floral species
To ensure the survival of CI species *Submit Permits for removal of the Protected species within the
individuals found in and surrounding the bounds of the site Fill in Permit Applications Pre-Construction EO and Ecologist
site
* Collect and store plants for replanting in the surrounding areas *Environmental -Ecological
or later during rehabilitation of certain areas. Procedure /Plan and onsite removals Pre-Construction EO and Ecologist
Introduction of Alien (Plant) and Feral - Pest (Faunal) Species
To prevent the influx of alien species and * There are limited aliens on site so mechanical removal of any Pre-educate the clearing team on
pest faunal speces from surrounding alien species during clearing of vegetation would be possible. what alien species are within the Pre-Construction and
regions These must be diosposed of in the correct manner. area and how they can be disposed during Construction - as Construction team
of and when required and EO
Weekly within the rainy
*Monitor the site during all phases for any new emergents and season and monthly in the EO and removal
remove as necessary. Implement Alien Invasive Plan dry season team
Sensory Disturbances affecting behavioural patterns
Minimise sensory disturbance to Engineers/ EO and
surrounding faunal communities *As part of the infrastructure, ensure lights around the small Incorporate design within layout Senior
mine fall within the red spectrum and angle down plans Pre-Construction Management
*No mitigation is provided for blasting- refer to blasting report
*Dust suppression - wetting of the roads twice a day as a Wet the roads using water trucks Construction Team
minimum onsite Twice a day and EO

DECOMMISSIONING
Continued Loss/Degradation of Habitat
Once off and then
Reduce any edge effects occurring and monitoring quarterly for EO and
affected natural remaining pockets of four years, thereafter Rehabilitation
vegetation in the area Rehabilitate the site as per the Rehabilitation Plan Implement the Rehabilitation Plan yearly Team
Creation of Artificial (suboptimal) habitat

*Ideally the pit would need to be rehabilitated. New habitat can EO, Landscape
As a small positive, the open pit may be created to increase habitat variability in the area. Create During rehabilitation of designer, Ecologist
provide a wetland habitat long term if potential new habitat during rehabilitation - depressions to * Implementation through a areas - As and when and on the ground
water collects within it allow surface water build up (perhaps 2m deep and sloped) Rehabilitation Programme required team
Proliferation of Alien Species
Weekly within the rainy
season and monthly in the
dry season for the first
To prevent the influx of alien species and three years after closure.
pest faunal speces from surrounding *Monitor the site during all phases and after closure for any new Revisit Plan after the EO and removal
regions after closure emergents and remove as necessary. Implement Alien Invasive Plan three years team

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11. References

AGIS, 2014. Agricultural Geo-Referenced Information System land type data. Website:
www.agis.agric.za.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AFFAIRS (DWA), 2012. Classification of Significant Water
Resources (Rivers, Wetland, Groundwater and Lakes) in the Upper, Middle and Lower
Vaal Management Area (WMA) 8, 9, 10: Management Classes of the Vaal River
Catchment Report. Report No. RDM/WMA8,9,10/00/CON/CLA/0212.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND SANITATION (DWS), 2014. A Desktop Assessment of the
Present Ecological State, Ecological Importance and Ecological Sensitivity per Sub
Quaternary Reaches for Secondary Catchments in South Africa. Secondary: C2.
Compiled by RQIS-RDM: http://www.dwa.gov.za/iwqs/rhp/eco/peseismodel.aspx
DRIVER A., NEL J.L., SNADDON K., MURRAY K., ROUX D.J., HILL L., SWARTZ E.R.,
MANUEL J. & FUNKE N. 2011. Implementation Manual for Freshwater Ecosystem
Priority Areas. Water Research Commission, Pretoria.
DU PREEZ, L. & CARRUTHERS, V. 2009. A Complete Guide to the Frogs of Southern
Africa. Struik Nature, Cape Town.
FRIEDMANN, Y. & DALY, B. 2004. Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A
Conservation Assessment. CBSG Southern Africa, Conservation Breeding Specialist
Group (SSC/IUCN), Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.
FROGMAP. 2016. Website: http://vmus.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.
HENNING, G.A., TERBLANCHE, R.F. & BALL, J.B. 2009. South African Red Data Book:
Butterflies. SANBI Biodiversity Series 13. South African National Biodiversity Institute,
Pretoria.
HILL, M.O. 1979. TWINSPAN. A Fortran Program for Arranging Multivariate Data in an
Ordered Two-way Analysis. Cornell University, New York.
HILTON-TAYLOR, C. 1996. Red Data List of Southern African Plants. Strelitzia 4. National
Botanical Institute, Pretoria.
IUCN (INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE AND NATURAL
RESOURCES). 2012. IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. IUCN,
Gland, Switzerland.
IUCN. 2013.1. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2013.1. Widely
recognized as the most comprehensive, objective global approach for evaluating the
conservation status of plant and animal species. Website: www.iucnredlist.org.
Accessed in 2016.
LEEMING, J. 2003. Scorpions of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape Town.
LEPIMAP. 2016. Website: http://vmus.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.
MAMMALMAP. 2016. Website: http://vmus.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.

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MEASEY, G.J. 2011. Ensuring a Future for South Africas Frogs: A Strategy for
Conservation Research. SANBI Biodiversity Series 19. South African National
Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
MECENERO, S., BALL J.B., EDGE, D.A., HAMER, M.L., HENNING, G.A., KRUGER, M.A.,
PRINGLE, E.L., TERBLANCHE, R.F. & WILLIAMS, M.C. Conservation Assessment of
Butterflies of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland: Red List and Atlas. Saftronics and
the Animal Demography Unit, University of Cape Town.
MINTER, L., BURGER, M., HARRISON, J.A., BRAACK, H.H., BISHOP, P.J. & KLOEPFER,
D. 2004. Atlas and Red Data Book of the Frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and
Swaziland. SI/MAB Series #9. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC.
MONADJEM, A., TAYLOR, P.J., COTTERILL, F.P.D. & SCHOEMAN, M.C. 2010. Bats of
Southern and Central Africa A Biogeographic and Taxonomic Synthesis. Wits
University Press, Johannesburg.
MUELLER-DOMBOIS & ELLENBERG. 1974. Aims and Methods of Vegetation Ecology.
John Wiley and Sons, New York.
MUCINA, L & RUTHERFORD, M.C. (eds). 2006. The vegetation map of South Africa,
Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19, South African National Biodiversity Institute.
NEL, J.L. & DRIVER, A. 2012. South African National Biodiversity Assessment 2011:
Technical Report. Volume 2: Freshwater Component. CSIR Report Number
CSIR/NRE/ECO/IR/2012/0022/A, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research,
Stellenbosch.
NEL, J.L., MURRAY, K.M., MAHERRY, A.M., PETERSON, C.P., ROUX, D.J., DRIVER,
A.L., HILL, L., VAN DEVENTER, H., FUNKE, N., SWARTZ, E.R., SMITH-ADOA, L.B.,
MBONA, N., DOWNSBOROUGH, L. & NIENABER, S. 2011. Technical Report for
Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas project. Water Research Commission. WRC
Report No. 1801/2/11.
REPTILEMAP. 2016. Website: http://vmus.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.
SABAP 1 & 2 (FIRST AND SECOND SOUTHERN AFRICAN BIRD ATLAS PROJECTS).
2016. Website: http://sabap2.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.
SCORPIONMAP. 2016. Website: http://vmus.adu.org.za. Accessed in 2016.
STUART, C. & STUART, T. 2000. Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa. Struik
Publishers.
TAINTON, N. 1999. Veld management in South Africa. University of Natal press,
Pietermaritzburg.

Websites:
www.accuweather.com
www.weathersa.co.za

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12. Appendices

12.1. Appendix 1 Present and potentially occurring mammal species


CONSERVATION STATUS

ATLAS
2,4,6
1 2,4 2,4
ORDER & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 2 S.A.
5 ATLAS 3

LO
IUCN NEM:BA
MACROSCELIDEA (Elephant-shrews)
Elephantulus myurus Rock Elephant-shrew LC (S) LC - 3
EULIPOTYPHLA (Hedgehogs & shrews)
Crocidura mariquensis Swamp Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 4
Crocidura fuscomurina Tiny Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 4
Crocidura cyanea Reddish-grey Musk Shrew LC (S) DD - 2
Lesser Grey-brown Musk
3
Crocidura silacea Shrew LC (S) DD -
Crocidura hirta Lesser Red Musk Shrew LC (U) DD - 2
Atelerix frontalis Southern African Hedgehog LC (S) NT - 2
CHIROPTERA (Bats)
Rhinolophus clivosus Geoffroy's Horseshoe Bat LC (U) NT - 2
Rhinolophus darlingi Darling's Horseshoe Bat LC (U) NT - 2
Tadarida aegyptiaca Egyptian Free-tailed Bat LC (U) LC - 2
Miniopterus natalensis Natal Long-fingered Bat LC (U) NT - 2
Pipistrellus rusticus Rusty Pipistrelle LC (U) LC - 2
Neoromicia capensis Cape Serotine LC (S) LC - 2
Scotophilus dinganii Yellow-bellied House Bat LC (U) LC - 2
Nycteris thebaica Egyptian Slit-faced Bat LC (U) LC - 2
LAGOMORPHA (Hares & rabbits)
Lepus capensis Cape Hare LC (D) LC - 2
Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare LC (D) LC - 2
Lepus sp. Hare - - - 1
RODENTIA (Rodents)
Cryptomys hottentotus Common Mole-rat LC (S) LC - 1
Hystrix africaeaustralis Porcupine LC (S) LC - 1
Pedetes capensis Springhare LC (U) LC - 2
Thryonomys swinderianus Greater Cane Rat LC (U) LC - 2
Xerus inauris Cape Ground Squirrel LC (S) LC - 1 x
Mystromys albicaudatus White-tailed Rat EN (D) EN - 3
Lemniscomys rosalia Single-striped Mouse LC (S) DD - 2
Rhabdomys pumilio Striped Mouse LC (S) LC - 2
Mastomys coucha Multimammate Mouse LC (S) LC - 2
Thallomys paedulcus Tree Rat LC (U) LC - 3
Aethomys namaquensis Namaqua Rock Mouse LC (S) LC - 2
Aethomys ineptus Tete Veld Rat LC (U) LC - 2
Otomys angoniensis Angoni Vlei Rat LC (S) LC - 4
Otomys irroratus Vlei Rat LC (S) LC - 4
Tatera leucogaster Bushveld Gerbil LC (S) DD - 2
Tatera afra Cape Gerbil LC (U) LC - 3
Tatera brantsii Highveld Gerbil LC (U) LC - 1
Saccostomus campestris Pouched Mouse LC (S) LC - 2
Dendromus melanotis Grey Climbing Mouse LC (S) LC - 2
Steatomys krebsii Krebs's Fat Mouse LC (S) LC - 3

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CONSERVATION STATUS

ATLAS
2,4,6
1 2,4 2,4
ORDER & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 2 S.A.
5 ATLAS 3

LO
IUCN NEM:BA
CARNIVORA (Carnivores)
Proteles cristatus Aardwolf LC (S) LC - 2
Hyaena brunnea Brown Hyaena NT (D) NT PS 3
Panthera pardus Leopard NT (D) LC PS 2
Caracal caracal Caracal LC (U) LC - 2
Felis silvestris African Wild Cat LC (D) LC - 2
Felis nigripes Black-footed Cat VU (D) LC PS 3
Genetta genetta Small-spotted Genet LC (S) LC - 2
Genetta tigrina Large-spotted Genet LC (U) LC - 2
Suricata suricatta Suricate LC (U) LC - 2
Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose LC (S) LC - 1
Galerella sanguinea Slender Mongoose LC (S) LC - 2 x
Ichneumia albicauda White-tailed Mongoose LC (S) LC - 2
Atilax paludinosus Water Mongoose LC (D) LC - 2
Mungos mungo Banded Mongoose LC (S) LC - 3
Otocyon megalotis Bat-eared Fox LC (U) LC PS 2
Vulpes chama Cape Fox LC (S) LC PS 2
Canis mesomelas Black-backed Jackal LC (S) LC - 2 x
Aonyx capensis Cape Clawless Otter LC (S) LC - 4
Mellivora capensis Honey Badger LC (D) NT - 3
Poecilogale albinucha African Weasel LC (U) DD - 2
Ictonyx striatus Striped Polecat LC (S) LC - 2
TUBULIDENTATA (Aardvark)
Orycteropus afer Aardvark LC (U) LC PS 1
HYRACOIDEA (Hyraxes)
Procavia capensis Rock Hyrax LC (U) LC - 4
PERISSODACTYLA (Zebras)
Ceratotherium simum White Rhinoceros NT (I) LC PS 5
Black Rhinoceros - North-
Diceros bicornis 5
eastern Race CR (I)* VU EN
Equus zebra zebra Cape Mountain Zebra VU (U)* VU VU 5 x
Equus quagga Plains Zebra LC (S) LC PS* 5 x
SUIFORMES (Pigs & hogs)
Phacochoerus africanus Warthog LC (S) LC - 2
RUMINATA (Even-toed ungulates)
Giraffa camelopardalis Giraffe LC (D) LC - 5 x
Tragelaphus strepsiceros Kudu LC (S) LC - 5 x
Tragelaphus oryx Eland LC (S) LC - 5 x
Connochaetes gnou Black Wildebeest LC (I) LC PS* 5 x
Connochaetes taurinus Blue Wildebeest LC (S) LC PS* 5 x
Alcelaphus buselaphus Red Hartebeest LC (D) LC PS* 5 x
Damaliscus pygargus
5
phillipsi Blesbok LC (S)* LC PS* x
Oryx gazella Gemsbok LC (S) LC - 5 x
Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker LC (S) LC - 1
Redunca arundinum Reedbuck LC (S) LC - 5 x
Antidorcas marsupialis Springbok LC (I) LC - 2 x
Raphicerus campestris Steenbok LC (S) LC - 1
Aepyceros melampus Impala LC (S) LC - 5 x

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CONSERVATION STATUS

ATLAS
2,4,6
1 2,4 2,4
ORDER & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 2 S.A.
5 ATLAS 3

LO
IUCN NEM:BA
Oreotragus oreotragus Klipspringer LC (S) LC - 2
Key
Status: CR = Critically Endangered; D = Declining; DD = Data Deficient; EN = Endangered; I =
Increasing; LC = Least Concern; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected Species; S = Stable; U =
Unknown; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low; 5 = May occur as a
managed population
1 2 3 4
Sources: Stuart & Stuart (2007); Friedmann & Daly (2004); ToPS List (2015); Monadjem et al.
5 6
(2010); IUCN (2013.1); MammalMap (2016)
*Listed on ToPS (2015) as Protected Game

12.2. Appendix 2 Present and potentially occurring bird species


CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
2. Inland water birds
White-breasted
Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant LC (I) LC - 4 x
Phalacrocorax africanus Reed Cormorant LC (D) LC - 4 x
Anhinga rufa African Darter LC (D) LC - 4
Ardea cinerea Grey Heron LC (U) LC - 2 x
Ardea melanocephala Black-headed Heron LC (I) LC - 2 x
Ardea goliath Goliath Heron LC (S) LC - 4
Ardea purpurea Purple Heron LC (D) LC - 3
Egretta alba Great White Egret LC (U) LC - 4 x
Egretta garzetta Little Egret LC (I) LC - 4 x
Egretta intermedia Yellow-billed Egret LC (D) LC - 3 x
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret LC (I) LC - 1 x
Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron LC (D) LC - 4
Butorides striata Green-backed Heron LC (D) LC - 4
Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron LC (S) LC - 4 x
Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern LC (D) LC - 4
Black-crowned Night-
Nycticorax nycticorax heron LC (D) LC - 4
Scopus umbretta Hamerkop LC (S) LC - 3
Mycteria ibis Yellow-billed Stork LC (D) EN/LC - 4 x
Ciconia abdimii Abdim's Stork LC (D) LC (NB) - 3
Ciconia nigra Black Stork LC (U) VU/LC VU 4 x
Ciconia ciconia White Stork LC (I) LC (NB) - 3 x
Threskiornis aethiopicus African Sacred Ibis LC (D) LC - 3 x
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis LC (D) LC - 4 x
Bostrychia hagedash Hadeda Ibis LC (I) LC - 2 x
Platalea alba African Spoonbill LC (S) LC - 4 x
Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo LC (I) NT/LC - 4 x
Phoenicopterus minor Lesser Flamingo NT (D) NT/NT - 4

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Black-winged
Glareola nordmanni Pratincole NT (D) NT/NT - 4 x
Larus cirrocephalus Grey-headed Gull LC (S) LC - 4
Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Tern LC (S) LC (NB) - 4 x
Chlidonias hybrida Whiskered Tern LC (S) LC - 4
3. Ducks & wading birds
Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe LC (U) LC - 4
Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe LC (D) LC - 4 x
Plectropterus gambensis Spur-winged Goose LC (I) LC - 4 x
Alopochen aegyptiacus Egyptian Goose LC (D) LC - 1 x
South African
Tadorna cana Shelduck LC (I) LC - 4 x
Sarkidiornis melanotos Comb Duck LC (D) LC - 4 x
Anas smithii Cape Shoveler LC (I) LC - 4 x
Anas sparsa African Black Duck LC (D) LC - 4
Anas undulata Yellow-billed Duck LC (S) LC - 4 x
Anas erythrorhyncha Red-billed Teal LC (D) LC - 4 x
Anas capensis Cape Teal LC (I) LC - 4 x
Anas hottentota Hottentot Teal LC (D) LC - 4 x
Dendrocygna viduata White-faced Duck LC (I) LC - 4 x
Dendrocygna bicolor Fulvous Duck LC (D) LC - 4
Netta erythrophthalma Southern Pochard LC (D) LC - 4 x
Oxyura maccoa Maccoa Duck NT (D) NT/NT - 4
Thalassornis leuconotus White-backed Duck LC (D) LC - 4
Rallus caerulescens African Rail LC (U) LC - 4 x
Amaurornis flavirostris Black Crake LC (U) LC - 4 x
Porphyrio African Purple
madagascariensis Swamphen LC (U) LC - 4 x
Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen LC (U) LC - 4 x
Fulica cristata Red-knobbed Coot LC (D) LC - 4 x
Actophilornis africanus African Jacana LC (S) LC - 4
Rostratula benghalensis Greater Painted-snipe LC (D) VU/LC - 4
Charadrius pecuarius Kittlitz's Plover LC (U) LC - 4 x
Charadrius tricollaris Three-banded Plover LC (U) LC - 4 x
Vanellus coronatus Crowned Lapwing LC (I) LC - 1 x
Vanellus armatus Blacksmith Lapwing LC (I) LC - 2 x
African Wattled
Vanellus senegallus Lapwing LC (S) LC - 3
Gallinago nigripennis African Snipe LC (U) LC - 4 x
Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper LC (I) LC (NB) - 4 x
Calidris minuta Little Stint LC (D) LC (NB) - 4 x
Philomachus pugnax Ruff LC (D) LC (NB) - 4 x
Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper LC (D) LC (NB) - 4 x

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper LC (D) LC (NB) - 4 x
Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank LC (S) LC (NB) - 4 x
Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper LC (S) LC (NB) - 4 x
Recurvirostra avosetta Pied Avocet LC (U) LC - 4
Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt LC (I) LC - 4 x
4. Large terrestrial birds
Struthio camelus Common Ostrich LC (D) LC - 5
Sagittarius serpentarius Secretarybird VU (D) VU/VU - 3
Peliperdix coqui Coqui Francolin LC (S) LC - 3
Orange River
Scleroptila levaillantoides Francolin LC (S) LC - 2 x
Pternistis swainsonii Swainson's Spurfowl LC (S) LC - 2 x
Coturnix coturnix Common Quail LC (D) LC - 2 x
Numida meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl LC (S) LC - 2 x
Anthropoides paradiseus Blue Crane VU (S) NT/VU EN 3 x
Eupodotis senegalensis White-bellied Korhaan LC (D) VU/LC - 4
Burhinus capensis Spotted Thick-knee LC (S) LC - 2 x
Cursorius temminckii Temminck's Courser LC (S) LC - 2 x
Double-banded
Rhinoptilus africanus Courser LC (S) LC - 3 x
Northern Black
Afrotis afraoides Korhaan - LC - 1 x
5. Raptors
Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture VU (D) EN/VU EN 3 x
Gyps africanus White-backed Vulture EN (D) EN/EN EN 3 x
Torgos tracheliotos Lappet-faced Vulture VU (D) EN/VU EN 4 x
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon LC (S) LC VU 4
Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon LC (I) VU/LC - 4
Falco amurensis Amur Falcon LC (S) LC (NB) - 1 x
Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon NT (D) LC (NB) - 3
Falco rupicoloides Greater Kestrel LC (S) LC - 2 x
- Rock Kestrel - LC - 4 x
Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel LC (S) LC VU 2 x
Milvus migrans Black Kite LC (U) LC (NB) - 3 2
Milvus aegyptius Yellow-billed Kite - LC - 3 x
Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite LC (S) LC - 2 x
Aquila spilogaster African Hawk Eagle LC (D) LC - 4
Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle VU (D) EN/VU VU 4
Circaetus cinereus Brown Snake-eagle LC (S) LC - 4
Black-chested Snake-
Circaetus pectoralis eagle LC (U) LC - 2
Haliaeetus vocifer African Fish-eagle LC (S) LC - 3
Buteo vulpinus Steppe Buzzard LC (I) LC (NB) - 2 x

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Accipiter ovampensis Ovambo Sparrowhawk LC (I) LC - 3
Accipiter minullus Little Sparrowhawk LC (S) LC - 3
Accipiter melanoleucus Black Sparrowhawk LC (D) LC - 3
Melierax gabar Gabar Goshawk LC (S) LC - 3
Southern Pale
Melierax canorus Chanting Goshawk LC (S) LC - 3
Circus ranivorus African Marsh-harrier LC (D) EN/LC PS 4
Polyboroides typus African Harrier-hawk LC (S) LC - 3
6. Owls & nightjars
Tyto alba Barn Owl LC (S) LC - 3 x
Asio capensis Marsh Owl LC (S) LC - 3 x
Bubo africanus Spotted Eagle-owl LC (S) LC - 3 x
7. Sandgrouse, doves etc
Pterocles namaqua Namaqua Sandgrouse LC (S) LC - 2 x
Columba guinea Speckled Pigeon LC (S) LC - 1 x
Streptopelia semitorquata Red-eyed Dove LC (I) LC - 2 x
Streptopelia capicola Cape Turtle Dove LC (I) LC - 2 x
Streptopelia senegalensis Laughing Dove LC (S) LC - 1 x
Oena capensis Namaqua Dove LC (I) LC - 2 x
Corythaixoides concolor Grey Go-away-bird LC (S) LC - 3
Cuculus solitarius Red-chested Cuckoo LC (S) LC (B) - 4 x
Clamator jacobinus Jacobin Cuckoo LC (S) LC (B) - 3 x
Chrysococcyx caprius Dideric Cuckoo LC (S) LC (B) - 2 x
Columba livia Rock Dove LC (D) AL - 1 x
Centropus superciliosus White-browed Coucal LC (S) LC - 4 x
Centropus burchelli Burchell's Coucal LC (S) LC - 2 x
8. Aerial feeders, etc
Apus apus Common Swift LC (D) LC (NB) - 2
Apus barbatus African Black Swift LC (S) LC - 2
Apus caffer White-rumped Swift LC (I) LC (B) - 2 x
Apus affinis Little Swift LC (I) LC - 2 x
Cypsiurus parvus Palm Swift LC (I) LC - 4
Colius striatus Speckled Mousebird LC (I) LC - 2 x
White-backed
Colius colius Mousebird LC (I) LC - 1 x
Urocolius indicus Red-faced Mousebird LC (U) LC - 2 x
Ceryle rudis Pied Kingfisher LC (U) LC - 4 x
Alcedo cristata Malachite Kingfisher LC (S) LC - 4
Brown-hooded
Halcyon albiventris Kingfisher LC (S) LC - 3 x
Merops apiaster European Bee-eater LC (D) LC (B/NB) - 2 x
White-fronted Bee-
Merops bullockoides eater LC (I) LC - 3

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5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Merops pusillus Little Bee-eater LC (D) LC - 4
Swallow-tailed Bee-
Merops hirundineus eater LC (S) LC - 4 x
Coracias caudatus Lilac-breasted Roller LC (S) LC - 4 x
Upupa africana African Hoopoe - LC - 2 x
Phoeniculus purpureus Green Wood-hoopoe LC (D) LC - 2
Rhinopomastus
cyanomelas Common Scimitarbill LC (D) LC - 4 x
Tockus nasutus African Grey Hornbill LC (S) LC - 3 x
Lybius torquatus Black-collared Barbet LC (D) LC - 2 x
Tricholaema leucomelas Acacia Pied Barbet LC (I) LC - 2 x
Trachyphonus vaillantii Crested Barbet LC (D) LC - 2 x
Indicator indicator Greater Honeyguide LC (I) LC - 3
Indicator minor Lesser Honeyguide LC (S) LC - 3
Golden-tailed
Campethera abingoni Woodpecker LC (S) LC - 4
Dendropicos fuscescens Cardinal Woodpecker LC (S) LC - 4
Jynx ruficollis Red-throated Wryneck LC (I) LC - 2
Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow LC (D) LC (NB) - 1 x
White-throated
Hirundo albigularis Swallow LC (I) LC - 2 x
Pearl-breasted
Hirundo dimidiata Swallow LC (S) LC - 3 x
Hirundo semirufa Red-breasted Swallow LC (I) LC - 2 x
Greater Striped-
Hirundo cucullata swallow LC (I) LC - 1 x
Lesser Striped-
Hirundo abyssinica swallow LC (I) LC - 3
South African Cliff-
Hirundo spilodera swallow LC (I) LC (B, N-End) - 2 x
Hirundo fuligula Rock Martin LC (S) LC - 4
Riparia paludicola Brown-throated Martin LC (D) LC - 2 x
Riparia cincta Banded Martin LC (I) LC - 1 x
9. Cryptic & elusive insect-eaters
Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark NT (D) LC/NT - 2 x
Mirafra passerina Monotonous Lark LC (D) LC - 3 x
Mirafra africana Rufous-naped Lark LC (D) LC - 2 x
Calendulauda
africanoides Fawn-coloured Lark LC (S) LC - 3 x
Calendulauda sabota Sabota Lark LC (I) LC - 3 x
Chersomanes
albofasciata Spike-heeled Lark LC (D) LC - 1 x
Chestnut-backed
Eremopterix leucotis Sparrowlark LC (S) LC - 2 x
Grey-backed
Eremopterix verticalis Sparrowlark LC (S) LC - 3 x
Calandrella cinerea Red-capped Lark LC (I) LC - 1 x

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5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Spizocorys conirostris Pink-billed Lark LC (D) LC - 3 x
African Red-eyed
Pycnonotus nigricans Bulbul LC (I) LC - 2 x
Pycnonotus tricolor Dark-capped Bulbul - LC - 2 x
Sylvia borin Garden Warbler LC (D) LC - 3 x
Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler LC (D) LC (NB) - 3 x
Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler LC (D) LC (NB) - 2 x
Yellow-bellied
Eremomela icteropygialis Eremomela LC (S) LC - 3 x
Acrocephalus gracilirostris Lesser Swamp-warbler LC (S) LC - 4 x
Sylvietta rufescens Long-billed Crombec LC (S) LC - 2 x
Cisticola juncidis Zitting Cisticola LC (I) LC - 2 x
Cisticola aridulus Desert Cisticola LC (I) LC - 2 x
Cisticola textrix Cloud Cisticola LC (D) LC (N-End) - 1 x
Wing-snapping
Cisticola ayresii Cisticola LC (D) LC - 1
Cisticola fulvicapilla Neddicky LC (S) LC - 2 x
Cisticola lais Wailing Cisticola LC (S) LC - 3 x
Cisticola chiniana Rattling Cisticola LC (S) LC - 4 x
Cisticola tinniens Le Vaillant's Cisticola LC (S) LC - 4 x
Prinia subflava Tawny-flanked Prinia LC (S) LC - 2 x
Prinia flavicans Black-chested Prinia LC (S) LC - 2 x
Motacilla capensis Cape Wagtail LC (S) LC - 2 x
Anthus cinnamomeus African Pipit LC (S) LC - 2 x
Anthus similis Long-billed Pipit LC (S) LC - 2 x
Anthus leucophrys Plain-backed Pipit LC (S) LC - 2 x
Anthus vaalensis Buffy Pipit LC (I) LC - 2 x
Macronyx capensis Cape Longclaw LC (S) LC - 2 x
Mirafra fasciolata Eastern Clapper Lark - LC - 1 x
Agulhas Long-billed
Certhilauda brevirostris Lark LC (S) NT/NR - 4 x
Benguela Long-billed
Certhilauda benguelensis Lark LC (S) LC - 4 x
Certhilauda curvirostris Cape Long-billed Lark LC (D) LC (End) - 4 x
Eastern Long-billed
Certhilauda semitorquata Lark LC (D) LC (N-End) - 2 x
Certhilauda subcoronata Karoo Long-billed Lark LC (S) LC - 4 x
Mirafra apiata Cape Clapper Lark LC (D) LC (N-End) - 4 x
10. Regular insect-eaters
Parus cinerascens Ashy Tit LC (S) LC - 3 x
Dicrurus adsimilis Fork-tailed Drongo LC (S) LC - 3 x
Corvus albus Pied Crow LC (S) LC - 2 x
Corvus capensis Cape Crow LC (I) LC - 2 x
Anthoscopus minutus Cape Penduline-tit LC (S) LC - 3 x

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Turdoides jardineii Arrow-marked Babbler LC (S) LC - 3 x
Turdus libonyanus Kurrichane Thrush LC (U) LC - 3 x
Psophocichla litsipsirupa Groundscraper Thrush LC (U) LC - 3 x
Oenanthe monticola Mountain Wheatear LC (S) LC - 3 x
Oenanthe pileata Capped Wheatear LC (S) LC (B) - 2 x
Cercomela familiaris Familiar Chat LC (S) LC - 2 x
Myrmecocichla
formicivora Anteating Chat LC (S) LC - 1 x
Saxicola torquatus African Stonechat LC (S) LC - 2 x
Cossypha caffra Cape Robin-chat LC (S) LC - 2 x
White-throated Robin-
Cossypha humeralis chat LC (S) LC - 3 x
Cercotrichas paena Kalahari Scrub-robin LC (S) LC - 2 x
White-browed Scrub-
Cercotrichas leucophrys robin LC (S) LC - 3 x
Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher LC (D) LC (NB) - 2 x
Chestnut-vented Tit-
Parisoma subcaeruleum babbler - LC - 2 x
Bradornis mariquensis Marico Flycatcher LC (S) LC - 3
Sigelus silens Fiscal Flycatcher LC (S) LC (N-End) - 2 x
Batis molitor Chinspot Batis LC (S) LC - 2 x
Stenostira scita Fairy Flycatcher LC (S) LC (N-End) - 3 x
African Paradise-
Terpsiphone viridis flycatcher LC (S) LC - 3 x
Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike LC (D) LC (NB) - 2 x
Lanius collaris Common Fiscal LC (I) LC - 2 x
Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike LC (D) LC (NB) - 1 x
Laniarius ferrugineus Southern Boubou LC (S) LC - 3 x
Crimson-breasted
Laniarius atrococcineus Shrike LC (I) LC - 3 x
Dryoscopus cubla Black-backed Puffback LC (D) LC - 3 x
Brown-crowned
Tchagra australis Tchagra LC (S) LC - 2 x
Black-crowned
Tchagra senegalus Tchagra LC (S) LC - 3 x
Telophorus zeylonus Bokmakierie LC (S) LC - 2 x
Nilaus afer Brubru LC (S) LC - 2 x
Acridotheres tristis Common Myna LC (I) AL - 1
Creatophora cinerea Wattled Starling LC (S) LC - 2 x
Lamprotornis nitens Cape Glossy Starling LC (S) LC - 1 x
Onychognathus morio Red-winged Starling LC (I) LC - 3
Spreo bicolor Pied Starling LC (S) LC (N-End) - 1 x
Turdus smithi Karoo Thrush - LC (N-End) - 2 x
Turdus olivaceus Olive Thrush LC (U) LC - 4 x
11. Oxpeckers & nectar feeders

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Nectarinia famosa Malachite Sunbird LC (S) LC - 4 x
Cinnyris talatala White-bellied Sunbird LC (S) LC - 3 x
Chalcomitra amethystina Amethyst Sunbird LC (S) LC - 3 x
Orange River White-
Zosterops pallidus eye LC (U) LC - 3 x
Zosterops capensis Cape White-eye - LC (N-End) - 2 x
12. Seed-eaters
White-browed
Plocepasser mahali Sparrow-weaver LC (S) LC - 1 x
Passer domesticus House Sparrow LC (D) AL - 2 x
Passer motitensis Great Sparrow LC (S) LC - 3
Passer melanurus Cape Sparrow LC (S) LC - 1 x
Yellow-throated
Petronia superciliaris Petronia LC (S) LC - 3 x
Sporopipes squamifrons Scaly-feathered Finch LC (S) LC - 1 x
Ploceus capensis Cape Weaver LC (S) LC (N-End) - 3 x
Southern Masked-
Ploceus velatus weaver LC (S) LC - 1 x
Quelea quelea Red-billed Quelea LC (S) LC - 1 x
Euplectes orix Southern Red Bishop LC (S) LC - 2 x
Yellow-crowned
Euplectes afer Bishop LC (S) LC - 1 x
Red-collared
Euplectes ardens Widowbird LC (S) LC - 3 x
White-winged
Euplectes albonotatus Widowbird LC (S) LC - 3 x
Euplectes progne Long-tailed Widowbird LC (S) LC - 2 x
Amadina erythrocephala Red-headed Finch LC (S) LC - 1 x
Pytilia melba Green-winged Pytilia LC (S) LC - 3 x
Lagonosticta rhodopareia Jameson's Firefinch LC (S) LC - 3 x
Lagonosticta senegala Red-billed Firefinch LC (S) LC - 3 x
Orange-breasted
Amandava subflava Waxbill LC (S) LC - 2 x
Uraeginthus angolensis Blue Waxbill LC (S) LC - 3 x
Granatina granatina Violet-eared Waxbill LC (S) LC - 4 x
Estrilda erythronotos Black-faced Waxbill LC (S) LC - 4 x
Estrilda astrild Common Waxbill LC (S) LC - 2 x
Ortygospiza atricollis African Quailfinch LC (S) LC - 1 x
Vidua macroura Pin-tailed Whydah LC (S) LC - 2 x
Vidua regia Shaft-tailed Whydah LC (S) LC - 3 x
Vidua funerea Dusky Indigobird LC (S) LC - 3
Vidua chalybeata Village Indigobird LC (S) LC - 3
Long-tailed Paradise-
Vidua paradisaea whydah LC (S) LC - 2 x
Serinus mozambicus Yellow-fronted Canary LC (D) LC - 3 x
Serinus atrogularis Black-throated Canary LC (S) LC - 1 x

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CONSERVATION STATUS

5
1

ATLAS
CATEGORY & 4
3 COMMON NAME GLOBAL ATLAS S.A.
SPECIES

4
3 5 2

LO
IUCN (REG/GLOB) NEM:BA
Serinus flaviventris Yellow Canary LC (S) LC - 2 x
Emberiza impetuani Lark-like Bunting LC (S) LC - 3 x
Cinnamon-breasted
Emberiza tahapisi Bunting LC (S) LC - 3 x
Emberiza capensis Cape Bunting LC (S) LC - 3 x
Golden-breasted
Emberiza flaviventris Bunting LC (S) LC - 3 x
Southern Greyheaded
Passer diffusus Sparrow LC (S) LC - 1 x
Northern Grey-headed
Passer griseus Sparrow LC (S) LC - 3 x
Key
Status: D = Declining; EN = Endangered; I = Increasing; LC = Least Concern; NB = Non-breeding; NR =
Not Recognised by Birdlife International; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected Species; S = Stable; U
= Unknown population trend; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low; 5 = Managed
populations
1 2 3 4 5
Sources: Newman (2002); ToPS List (2016); IUCN (2013.1); SABAP (2016); Taylor (2015)

12.3. Appendix 3 Present and potentially occurring reptile species


CONSERVATION STATUS

4
ATLAS
1 1
SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 1 S.A.
3 ATLAS 2

4
IUCN NEM:BA

LO
PELOMEDUSIDAE (Terrapins)
Pelomedusa subrufa Marsh Terrapin - 2LC - 4
TESTUDINIDAE (Tortoises)
Psammobates oculifer Serrated Tent Tortoise - 1LC - 4
Stigmochelys pardalis Leopard Tortoise - 1LC - 2
GEKKONIDAE (Geckos)
Lygodactylus capensis
capensis Common Dwarf Gecko - 1LC - 2
Pachydactylus capensis Cape Gecko - 2LC - 1
AMPHISBAENIDAE (Worm lizards)
Monopeltis capensis Cape Worm Lizard - 1LC - 4
LACERTIDAE (Typical lizards)
Holubs Sandveld
Nucras holubi Lizard - 2LC - 1
Pedioplanis lineoocellata
lineoocellata Spotted Sand Lizard - 2LC - 3
CORDYLIDAE (Girdled lizards & relatives)
Common Girdled
Cordylus vittifer Lizard - 1LC - 2 x
GERRHOSAURIDAE (Plated lizards & relatives)
Yellow-throated Plated
Gerrhosaurus flavigularis Lizard - 2LC - 1
SCINCIDAE (Skinks)
Thin-tailed Legless 1LC
Acontias gracilicauda Skink LC (U) (END) - 2

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CONSERVATION STATUS

4
ATLAS
1 1
SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 1 S.A.
3 ATLAS 2

4
IUCN NEM:BA

LO
Wahlberg's Snake-
Afroablepharus wahlbergii eyed Skink - 2LC - 1
Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink - 2LC - 2
Trachylepis punctatissima Speckled Rock Skink LC (S) 2LC - 2 x
Trachylepis punctulata Speckled Sand Skink - 2LC - 3
Trachylepis varia Variable Skink - 2LC - 1 x
VARANIDAE (Monitors)
Varanus albigularis albigularis Southern Rock Monitor - 2LC - 4
Varanus niloticus Nile Monitor - 2LC - 2
CHAMAELEONIDAE (Chamaeleons)
Common Flap-neck
Chamaeleo dilepis Chameleon LC (S)* 2LC - 4
AGAMIDAE (Agamas)
Eastern Ground 1LC
Agama aculeata distanti Agama - (END) - 2
Agama atra Southern Rock Agama - 1LC - 2
TYPHLOPIDAE (Blind snakes)
Afrotyphlops bibronii Bibrons Blind Snake - 1LC - 2
Delalande's Beaked
Rhinotyphlops lalandei Blind Snake - 2LC - 2
LEPTOTYPHLOPIDAE (Thread snakes)
Leptotyphlops scutifrons Peters Thread Snake - 1LC - 2
LAMPROPHIIDAE (Advanced snakes)
Black-headed
Aparallactus capensis Centipede-eater LC (S) 2LC - 2
Common House
Boaedon capensis Snake - 2LC - 2
1LC
Lamprophis aurora Aurora Snake LC (D) (END) - 2
Lycodonomorphus rufulus Brown Water Snake - 1LC - 4
Lycophidion capense capense Cape Wolf Snake - 2LC - 2
Short-snouted Grass
Psammophis brevirostris Snake - 1LC - 3
Fork-marked Sand
Psammophis trinasalis Snake - 2LC - 3 x
Psammophylax rhombeatus
rhombeatus Spotted Grass Snake - 2LC - 4
Psammophylax tritaeniatus Striped Grass Snake LC (S) 2LC - 2
Pseudaspis cana Mole Snake - 2LC - 2
ELAPIDAE (Cobras & relatives)
Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals LC (S) 1LC - 2
Naja nivea Cape Cobra - 2LC - 3
COLUBRIDAE (Typical snakes)
Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Red-lipped Snake - 2LC - 2
Dasypeltis scabra Rhombic Egg-eater LC (U) 2LC - 2 x
Key
Status: D = Declining; End = Endemic; LC = Least Concern; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected
Species; U = Unknown; VU = Vulnerable; 1 = Global; 2 = Regional
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low; 5 = May occur as a
managed population

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CONSERVATION STATUS

4
ATLAS
1 1
SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 1 S.A.
3 ATLAS 2

4
IUCN NEM:BA

LO
1 2 3 4
Sources: Bates et al. (2014); ToPS List (2015); IUCN (2013.1); ReptileMap (2016)

12.4. Appendix 4 Present and potentially occurring frog species


CONSERVATION STATUS

3,5
ATLAS
1,4 4 3
FAMILY & SPECIES COMMON NAME GLOBAL 3 S.A.

3,5
4,6 ATLAS 2
IUCN NEM:BA

LO
BREVICIPITIDAE (Rain frogs)
Breviceps adspersus pentheri Bushveld Rain Frog LC (U)* LC - 2
BUFONIDAE (True toads)
Amietophrynus garmani Eastern Olive Toad LC (U) LC - 2 x
Amietophrynus gutturalis Guttural Toad LC (I) LC - 2 x
Schismaderma carens Red Toad LC (U) LC - 2 x
HYPEROLIIDAE (Leaf-folding & reed frogs)
Kassina senegalensis Bubbling Kassina LC (U) LC - 4 x
PHRYNOBATRACHIDAE (Puddle frogs)
Phrynobatrachus natalensis Snoring Puddle Frog LC (S) LC - 2
PIPIDAE (Platannas (African clawed frogs))
Xenopus laevis Common Platanna LC (I) LC - 4
PYXICEPHALIDAE (River, stream, moss & sand frogs)
Cacosternum boettgeri Boettgers Caco LC (U) LC - 2 x
Amietia angolensis Common River Frog LC (S) LC - 4 x
Amietia fuscigula Cape River Frog LC (S) LC - 4
Pyxicephalus adspersus Giant Bullfrog LC (D) NT PS* 3
Strongylopus fasciatus Striped Stream Frog LC (U) LC - 4
Tomopterna cryptotis Tremolo Sand Frog LC (S) LC - 2 x
Tomopterna natalensis Natal Sand Frog LC (U) LC - 3
Key
Status: LC = Least Concern; I = Increasing; NT = Near Threatened; PS = Protected Species; S = Stable; U =
Unknown
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low; a = November site visit; b =
December site vist; c = both site visits
1 2 3 4 5
Sources: ToPS List (2007); IUCN (2013.1); Minter et al. (2004); Du Preez & Carruthers (2009); FrogMap (2015);
6
BEC (2006)
*Old ToPS (2007) status, awaits inclusion into new ToPS (2015)

12.5. Appendix 5 Present and potentially occurring butterfly species


1 1 1 1,2 2
FAMILY & SPECIES COMMON NAME STATUS LO ATLAS
HESPERIIDAE
Gegenes niso niso Common Hottentot Skipper 1LC 3
Gegenes pumilio gambica Dark Hottentot 1LC 2
Kedestes lepenula Chequered ranger 1LC 3
Spialia asterodia Star Sandman 1LC 3
Spialia diomus ferax Common Sandman 1LC 2
Spialia mafa mafa Mafa sandman 1LC 2
Spialia spio Mountain sandman 1LC 2
PAPILIONIDAE
Papilio demodocus demodocus Citrus swallowtail 1LC 2

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1 1 1 1,2 2
FAMILY & SPECIES COMMON NAME STATUS LO ATLAS
PIERIDAE
Belenois aurota Brown-veined white 1LC 1
Catopsilia florella African migrant 1LC 1
Colias electo electo African clouded yellow 1LC 2
Colotis evagore antigone Small orange tip 1LC 3
Colotis evenina evenina Orange tip 1LC 3
Eurema brigitta brigitta Broad-bordered grass yellow 1LC 1
Pinacopteryx eriphia eriphia Zebra white 1LC 4
Pontia helice helice Common meadow white 1LC 2 x
NYMPHALIDAE
Acraea horta Garden acraea 1LC 3
Acraea lygus Lygus acraea 1LC 4
Acraea neobule neobule Wandering donkey acraea 1LC 2
Byblia ilithyia Spotted joker 1LC 2
Danaus chrysippus orientis African monarch 1LC 1
Hamanumida daedalus Guinea-fowl butterfly 1LC 3
Hypolimnas misippus Common diadem 1LC 2
Junonia hierta cebrene Yellow pansy 1LC 2
Junonia oenone oenone Blue pansy 1LC 3
Junonia orithya madagascariensis Eyed pansy 1LC 1
Phalanta phalantha aethiopica African Leopard 1LC 2
Precis archesia archesia Garden commodore 1LC 3
Telchinia rahira rahira Marsh acraea 1LC 2
Telchinia serena Dancing acraea 1LC 2
Vanessa cardui Painted lady 1LC 2
LYCAENIDAE
Actizera lucida Rayed blue 1LC 3
Aloeides aranda Aranda copper 1LC 3
Aloeides molomo molomo Molomo copper 1LC 2
Anthene amarah amarah Black striped hairtail 1LC 2
Anthene definita definita Common hairtail 1LC 3
Azanus jesous Topaz babul blue 1LC 2
Azanus moriqua Thorn-tree babul blue 1LC 2
Azanus ubaldus Velvet-spotted babul blue 1LC 2
Chilades trochylus Grass jewel 1LC 2
Cigaritis mozambica Mozambique bar 1LC 3
Cigaritis natalensis Natal bar 1LC 3
Crudaria leroma Silver spotted grey 1LC 3
Cupidopsis jobates jobates Tailed meadow blue 1LC 2
Eicochrysops messapus
mahallakoaena Cupreous blue 1LC 2
Lampides boeticus Pea blue 1LC 2
Lepidochrysops glauca Silvery blue 1LC 2
Lepidochrysops ignota Zulu blue 1LC 2
Lepidochrysops letsea Free State blue 1LC 3
Lepidochrysops patricia Patricia blue 1LC 2
Lepidochrysops plebeia plebeia Twin-spot blue 1LC 3
1LC
Lepidochrysops procera Potchefstroom blue (RHS) 3
Lycaena clarki Eastern sorrel copper 1LC 3
Tarucus sybaris sybaris Dotted blue 1LC 1

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1 1 1 1,2 2
FAMILY & SPECIES COMMON NAME STATUS LO ATLAS
Thestor basutus capeneri Basuto skolly 1LC 2
Tuxentius melaena melaena Black pie 1LC 2
Virachola antalus Brown playboy 1LC 3
Zizeeria knysna knysna Sooty blue 1LC 2
Zizula hylax Gaika blue 1LC 2
Key
Status: LC = Least Concern; RHS = Rare Habitat Specialist; 1 = Global
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 1 = Present; 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low
1 2
Sources: Mecenero et al. (2013); LepiMap (2016)

12.6. Appendix 6 Present and potentially occurring arachnid species


2,3 2,3 1 2,3
SPECIES & FAMILY COMMON NAME STATUS LO
BUTHIDAE
Parabuthus mossambicensis Thick-tailed scorpions - 4
Pseudolychas pegleri - - 4
Uroplectes carinatus Stinger scorpions - 2
Uroplectes triangulifer Stinger scorpions - 1
SCORPIONIDAE
Opistopthalmus pugnax Burrowing scorpions PS* 2
Opistopthalmus carinatus Burrowing scorpions PS* 2
THERAPHOSIDAE
Harpactirella flavipilosa -
Pterinochilus crassispinus PS*
Key
Status: NT = Near-threatened; PS = Protected Species; VU = Vulnerable
Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO): 2 = High; 3 = Moderate; 4 = Low
1 2 3
Sources: ToPS (2007); Leeming (2003); Dippenaar-Schoeman (2002)
*Old ToPS (2007) list status,ToPS (2015) no longer lists these species as Protected.

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12.7. Appendix 7 Main CVs


CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: SUSAN ABELL (ne BRADLEY)


Position: Senior Ecologist and Co-Owner of Natural Scientific
Services

Date of Birth: 29 March 1976


Nationality: South African
Languages: English (mother tongue), Afrikaans

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

MSc Resource Conservation Biology (Ecology) (2000 2001)


B Sc Hons University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (1999)
B Sc University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (1998)

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Environmental Impact Assessment:

Compiled numerous Environmental Impact Assessments, Scoping Reports and


Environmental Management Programmes as required by the Environment Conservation
Act (Act No. 73 of 1989) and the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of
1998).

Specialist Assessments:

Over 14 years performing ecological and vegetation surveys within Southern Africa.
Expertises are strong in the Savanna and Grasslands within Gauteng, North West, Limpopo,
Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Lesotho and Botswana. Further experience within the Karoid
Shrub, Kalahari and Fynbos Areas.

GIS Mapping, Database management, GIS Modelling undertaken within specialist projects

Strategic / Spatial Planning:

Co-ordinated and managed strategic spatial planning projects in Gauteng, North West

Province and Mpumalanga including the:

State of Environment Reporting


Gauteng Agricultural Potential Atlas (GAPA)
North West Biodiversity Site Inventory and Database Development Atlas
Tshwane Macro Open Space Policy
Biodiversity Database for Optimum Collieries (BHP Billiton)

Conference Presentations:

Natural Scientific Services CC


64
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

Undertaken numerous presentations at conferences (SAAB; IAIA)

Educational Training:

Education training for organisations such as Wits University and Induction Training in
Biodiversity Conservation for Mining Operations

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Member & Senior Ecologist: Natural Scientific Services. Johannesburg


(November 2004-Present)
Project management and administration
Project management and compilation of biodiversity assessments within savanna, karoid,
fynbos and grassland systems including:
Ecological assessments
Vegetation/Habitat assessments;
Red Data Scans;
Ecological Screening, Opinions & Statements;
Wetland Assessments.
Ecological Sensitivity Mapping;
Project management and compilation of Biodiversity Management & Action Plans (BMAPS);
Reserve Management Plans (examples below):
Blyde River Reserve Strategic Management Plan
Monate Reserve Management Plan
Alien Invasive Management Plans;
Project Management for Rehabilitation and Land-Use Plans;
Management and specialist input into Green Star Rating Projects (Ecological Component);
Environmental Impact Assessments and Scoping Reports;
Project management and compilation of a number of Environmental Impact Control Reports
(EICR) for waste management projects;
Compilation of Conceptual Closure Plans for a number of mining operations;
Tender and proposal compilation;
Marketing;
Liaison with clients and government officials; and
Involvement in Specific GIS-related projects (examples below):
Blyde Strategic Management Plan
Visual Assessment for Natalspruit Hospital
Biodiversity Database Optimum Collieries

Project Manager: Strategic Environmental Focus (SEF) (November 2003-


October 2004)
Project management and administration
Project Management of and input into Ecological Assessments
Tender and proposal compilation
Marketing
Liaison with clients and government officials
Involvement in GIS-related projects.
Tshwane Open Space Project
Numerous State of the Environment Reports

Environmental Manager: SEF, Pretoria (April 2001- November 2003)


Project management and administration
Compilation of environmental assessments and scoping reports including:
Tourism & Recreational developments
Residential developments

Natural Scientific Services CC


65
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

Commercial and industrial developments


Liaison with government officials
Management and input into GIS-related projects:
Gauteng Agricultural Potential Atlas (GAPA )
Gauteng Open Space Plan (GOSP)
North West Biodiversity Database Development
Ecological Assessments / vegetation surveys / opinions/ Red Data Scans for various indus-
tries mining, industrial, business, residential and sampling
Sensitivity mapping

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) 1999 2001


Teaching Assistant:
Mammalian surveys within Wits Rural Facility, Mpumalanga
Vegetation sampling for SAFARI 2000- Kruger National Park
Scientific Paper: Koedoe Journal 44/1 2001
Vegetation sampling Nylsvley Nature Reserve (2000)
Monitoring and growth experiments (1998-1999) Electron and Transmission microscopy

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (Pr.Sci.Nat)


Botanical Society of South Africa
International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA)

PAPERS PUBLISHED

Koedoe Journal 44/1 2001


Proceedings: Microscopy Society of South Africa, 1999

PAPERS PRESENTED

Proceedings of the Microscopy Society of Southern Africa, 1999


Population dynamics and regeneration ecology of Acacia nilotica and Acacia tortilis in
Nylsvley Nature Reserve, SAAB Conference 2000
Tools for Cooperative Governance: North West Biodiversity Site Inventory And Database
Development, IAIA Conference 2003

CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: TYRON KEN CLARK

Name of Firm: Natural Scientific Services CC


Position: Terrestrial Ecologist
Date of Birth: 30 January 1987
Nationality: South African
Languages: English (first language), Afrikaans

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

BSc Honours Zoology (2014). Zoology (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg).


BSc Botany and Zoology (2010). (University of South Africa, Pretoria).

Natural Scientific Services CC


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Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

KEY EXPERIENCE

Specialist Assessments:

Five years specialist consulting experience on over 70 projects in six countries (South Africa,
Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Sao-tome & Principe and Sierra Leone) and all provinces
in RSA conducting and / or managing the following:
Faunal assessments.
Wetland assessments.
Landscape Function Analysis.
Floral assessments (assisting).
Aquatic biomonitoring (assisting) and water sampling.
Public participation meetings.
Green Star ratings, Green Building Council.
Biodiversity management and action plans.
Impact assessments.

Research
The potential application of ground-penetrating radar for faunal research in South Africa
(current)
Climatic niche modelling; investigating the susceptibility of South Africa to invasion by
exotic reptiles using Maxent (2014).
Geographic Information Systems, ArcGIS and Diva GIS (2014).
Statistical analysis, R statistical computing program (2013).
Time-activity budgets of Rock Hyrax (2010).
Vegetation sampling, analysis and classification (2009-2010).
Preparation of samples for DNA sequencing and analysis (2009).
Amphibian acoustic recordings and analysis (2009).

Environmental Tutoring:

Four years at Happy Acres environmental centre actively educating youth on biological topics
in a practical setting.

Courses Completed:

2015: Wetland Management: Introduction and Delineation (University of the Free State)
2013: First aid Level 1 and 2 (Wilcare Safety Solutions)
2013: Off Road Driving (Proactive Driving for Sasol Botswana)
2010: Snake identification course (African Reptiles and Venom)
2010: Venomous snake handling course (African Reptiles and Venom)
2010: Snakebite treatment and IV course (African Reptiles and Venom)

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

Natural Scientific Services, Johannesburg (November 2010-Present)

Position Title: Terrestrial Ecologist


Key Focus Area: Ecological surveys, expanded below:
Project Management
Fieldwork, validating data and interpreting field findings
Report writing for EIAs, EMPRs and water use Licences

Natural Scientific Services CC


67
Ecological Opinion for the proposed Mosotetsi Development

Administrative activities including: Presentations, meetings, desktop research, general


project management and support to other staff members in implementing specific pro-
jects.
Research activities

Happy Acres Environmental Education Centre 2007

Teaching school groups about the environment with emphasis on biology in a practical setting.

Holly Brooke Horse Farms 2006

Guiding horse trails around the Magaliesberg area, part time (ongoing).

London Equestrian Centre 2005

Employee at the LEC in London, England:


General care of horses including all stabling, livery and day to day duties.
Education attained several British Horse Society qualifications.

RVS enterprises invoicing and sales, for DOMESTI hardware fixtures 2004-2005

Invoicing
Orders
Sales
Admin

MEMBERSHIPS

Herpetological Association of Africa


Magaliesberg Biosphere Project

Natural Scientific Services CC


68
MOSOTETSI (PTY) LTD SMALL SCALE
DIAMOND MINING

Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Prepared for: Prepared by:

Environmental Final Draft


Management Services
June 2016
8 Beach Road, Muizenberg, 7945
P.O. Box 61, Muizenberg, 7950
Tel: +27 21 709 6700
Fax: +27 86 685 5725
E-mail: amanzi@umvoto.com
Earth Water Science Life
Website: www.umvoto.com

UMVOTO AFRICA (PTY) LTD SPECIALIST DECLARATION

We, Dylan Blake and David Colquhoun McGibbon (both of Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd), as the appointed
independent hydrogeological specialists, in terms of the National Environmental Management Act
(NEMA) (No. 107 of 1998) 2014 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations (No. R. 982),
hereby declare that we:

Act as independent hydrogeological specialists in this application;


Perform the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views
and findings that are not favourable to the applicant;
Regard the information contained in this report as it relates to our specialist input/study to be true
and correct, and do not have and will not have any financial interest in the undertaking of the
activity, other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the NEMA and the 2014 EIA
Regulations;
That there are no circumstances that may compromise our objectivity in performing such work;
Have hydrogeological and geological expertise in conducting this hydrogeological specialist
report relevant to this application (see attached CVs in Appendix A), including knowledge of the
NEMA, 2014 EIA Regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;
Will comply with the NEMA, 2014 EIA Regulations and all other applicable legislation;
Have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity;
Have no vested interest in the proposed activity proceeding;
Undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in our
possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing:
o any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and
o the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by ourselves for submission
to the competent authority;
All the particulars furnished by us in this specialist input/study are true and correct; and
Realise that a false declaration is an offence in terms of Regulation 48 of the 2014 EIA
Regulations and is punishable in terms of Section 24F of the NEMA.

Signature of the Specialist Signature of the Specialist


Name: Dylan Blake Name: David Colquhoun McGibbon
Qualification: BSc (Honours) Geology Qualification: MSc Geology
UA Position: Associate / Principal Geologist UA Position: Trainee Geologist / Hydrogeologist
Date: 20 June 2016 Date: 20 June 2016
Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd. Directors: E R Hay, C J H Hartnady, K Riemann
Registration Number: 2001/013609/07 Associates: R T Wonnacott, D Blake, F S Botha, W J Gouws
8 Beach Road, Muizenberg, 7945
P.O. Box 61, Muizenberg, 7950
Tel: +27 21 709 6700
Fax: +27 86 685 5725
E-mail: amanzi@umvoto.com
Earth Water Science Life
Website: www.umvoto.com

Ms Kelly Stroebel 20 June 2016


Environmental Management Services (EMS) Our Ref: 866/2/1/2016
CSIR Stellenbosch KStroebel@csir.co.za

Dear Ms Stroebel

MOSOTETSI SMALL SCALE DIAMOND MINING


HYDROGEOLOGICAL SPECIALIST STUDY

INTRODUCTION
Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd was commissioned by Ms Kelly Stroebel of the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) Environmental Management Services (EMS) in Stellenbosch to undertake a
hydrogeological specialist study for a basic assessment of the proposed small scale diamond mining by
Mosotetsi (Pty) Ltd near Ga-Motlatla, located ~35 km east of Lichtenburg in the North West Province.
The study aims to determine the geological and hydrogeological setting of the area as well as any
potential contamination impacts posed by the proposed small scale diamond mining activities, and
possible mitigation thereof. Umvoto Africa proposed the following:
A preliminary desktop study was undertaken comprising of:
1. Analysis of available 1:50 000 topographical, climate, drainage/surface water, land use and digital
elevation model (DEM) data in order to describe the hydroclimatological and physical setting of
the site;
2. Analysis of the 1:250 000 West Rand 2626 geological maps, 1:500 000 Johannesburg 2526
hydrogeological map, available DEMs, Google Earth/satellite imagery and any existing
geological/hydrogeological/EIA/geotechnical/consulting reports of the surrounding area, to
determine the geological and hydrogeological setting of the site;
3. Analysis of available Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) datasets, namely the National
Groundwater Archive (NGA), Water Management System (WMS) and Water Authorisation and
Registration Management System (WARMS). The data from these records assisted in the
planning of a basic field hydrocensus, and provided an idea of the hydrogeological conditions in
the vicinity of the site.
4. Analysis of potential contaminants arising from small scale mining at the site, and the identification
of potential risk to pollution receptors (i.e. contaminant source);
5. Identification of potential pollution receptors (groundwater users, groundwater bodies,
environmentally sensitive areas) (i.e. potential receptors).
A day and a half long site investigation was proposed to verify information collated during the desktop
groundwater assessment, and involved:

Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd Directors: E R Hay, C J H Hartnady, K Riemann


Registration Number: 2001\013609\07 Associates: R T Wonnacott, D Blake, F S Botha, W J Gouws
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

1. Identification of receptors, including boreholes, groundwater discharge points (e.g. springs and
seeps) and connectivity of site to any surface water sources e.g. rivers or wetlands (i.e. potential
groundwater-surface water interaction);
2. Basic hydrocensus: groundwater point type (borehole, spring, seep etc.) data (within similar
geological and hydrogeological conditions ~1-2 km from the proposed mining site), such as the
XYZ co-ordinates of the point, hydrochemistry (electrical conductivity, pH and temperature), and
water levels, yields, pumping rates etc. (for boreholes, if available) will be collected;
3. Hydrogeological and contamination potential reconnaissance determining site-specific
parameters.
Assumptions include that there are no unidentified aquifers present, with all analysis based on available
data, information and specialist knowledge. Limitations to the specialist study include that no invasive
in-situ site investigations (i.e. trial pitting, drilling, testing, detailed hydrochemical sampling,
hydrogeological modelling etc.) were undertaken, and that no mine works programme is currently
available (indicating the exact mining methodology to be used on site, potential equipment and materials
to be used, infrastructure layout, areas and depth to be excavated, and the exact amount and quality of
water required for any mining processes). The above findings are presented in this specialist report,
along with recommended mitigation measures for any potential impacts related to mining activities.

LOCALITY
The proposed Mosotetsi small scale diamond mining operation is located on 1.5 hectares (ha) of the
50 ha Kwaggaslaagte 1/121 farm located near Ga-Motlatla, ~35 km east of Lichtenburg (Ditsobotla Local
Municipality [LM], Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality [DM], North West) (see Figure 1 and Figure
2). The topography of the proposed 1.5 ha Mosotetsi mine is flat, with elevations ranging between
~1523-1524 meters above mean sea level (mamsl) (see Figure 3).
The proposed Mosotetsi mine falls within the northeastern corner of the C24F quaternary catchment, of
the Vaal Water Management Area (WMA). The main river within the C24F quaternary catchment is the
Taaibosspruit River (flowing southeastwards into the Skoonspruit River, which in turn flows southwards
into the Vaal River), although the headwaters of the Skoonspruit River are ~20 km southwest of the
proposed mining area. Ga-Motlatla, situated ~2 km east of the proposed mine, forms part of the Grootpan
Water Supply Scheme in terms of water supply management, and relies solely on groundwater for its
supply of water (Department of Water Affairs [DWA], 2010a).
The proposed Mosotetsi mine is situated in a semi-arid area, with a mean annual precipitation (MAP) of
~550-600 mm/annum (falling mostly during mid-summer) (see Table 1). The average midday
temperatures range between 18C in June (winter) to 30C in January (summer), with a mean annual
evaporation (MAE) of ~1750-1850 mm/a (see Table 1). The area was first inhabited during a diamond
rush in 1926, but is now dominated by the production of maize, cattle and cement. Alluvial diamonds are
still mined in the area from the proposed mine towards Ventersdorp.

Table 1 Summarised GRDM 2010 and WR2005 values for the C24C (eastern neighbouring quaternary
catchment) and C24F (highlighted blue, within which the proposed Mosotetsi mine occurs)
quaternary catchments within the Vaal WMA.
Current Exploitation
Quaternary Total Area MAP MAE Recharge
Groundwater Potential
Catchment (km2) (mm/a) (mm/a) (mm/a) 3
Use (hm /a) (hm3/a)
C24C 1350 587 1750 39.09 14.87 22
C24F 2020 577 1830 26.95 1.30 34

2
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Figure 1 The proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine (represented by the yellow circle) on Kwaggaslaagte
1/121 (red polygon), situated near the catchment boundary/watershed of the C24C and C24F
quaternary catchments (Ditsobotla LM, North West).

Figure 2 Locality of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine (represented by the yellow polygon) on
Kwaggaslaagte 1/121 (red polygon), near the village of Ga-Motlatla.

3
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

a)

b)
Figure 3 a) Flat topography of Kwaggaslaagte 1/121 (looking westwards) where the proposed
Mosotetsi mine is situated; b) Previous alluvial diamond mine diggings on the proposed
Mosotetsi mine concession, looking southeastwards towards Ga-Motlatla in the distance.

GEOLOGY
The Chuniespoort Group (situated within the Transvaal Basin of the Transvaal Supergroup), and
specifically the Neoarchaean (~2600-2500 million years old [Ma]) dolomites of the Malmani Subgroup,
dominates the region surrounding the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine. The chert-rich dolomites (i.e.
magnesium-rich calcium carbonate rock) of the Monte Christo Formation, which falls within the Malmani
Subgroup, underlie the proposed mine (see Figure 4) and dip shallowly (<10) to the north.
The depositional environment of the Malmani Subgroup is interpreted to have been a stable shallow
marine platform and basin e.g. something akin to the present day Great Barrier Reef, and has been
subdivided into the following formations (oldest to youngest) (see Table 2): Oaktree, Monte Christo,
Lyttelton, Eccles and Frisco Formations (see Button [1976] and Eriksson and Truswell [1974] for more
detailed descriptions of the various formations).

4
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

The ~10-200 m thick Oaktree Formation, which occurs 10 km SSE of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond
mine, forms the base of the Malmani Subgroup and consists of carbonaceous shales, stromatolitic
dolomites and locally developed quartzites (Button [1976] and Eriksson and Truswell [1974]). The Monte
Christo Formation (which underlies the proposed mine as well as the immediate area within a ~10 km
radius of the mine) is ~300-500 m thick and consists of chert-rich dolomite and oolitic (Button [1976] and
Eriksson and Truswell [1974]).
The remaining Malmani Subgroup formations that overlie the Monte Christo Formation occur east and
north of the proposed mine. The Lyttelton Formation immediately overlies the Monte Christo Formation
~1.5 km north of the proposed mine, consists of 100-200 m of shales, quartzites and stromatolitic
dolomites (Button [1976] and Eriksson and Truswell [1974]), and is rich in iron and manganese (Taylor
1983). This is overlain by the 600 m thick cherty dolomites of the Eccles Formation (Button [1976] and
Eriksson and Truswell [1974]). The Frisco Formation forms the top of the Malmani Subgroup and consists
of 400 m of stromatolitic dolomites (Button [1976] and Eriksson and Truswell [1974]).

Figure 4 Geology (from the 2626 West Rand 1:250 000 geological map) of the area underlying and
surrounding the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine (red icon indicates the location of the
proposed mine). The teal (including dotted and white dashed) area represents the dolomitic
Monte Christo Formation (Vmm), the blue dotted area represents the dolomitic Lyttelton
Formation (Vml), the light blue area represents the dolomitic Eccles Formation (Vme), and
the light yellow and yellow areas represent overlying Quaternary (sometimes
diamondiferous) gravels (Qg) and surface sediment (Qs) respectively. Red Da and Cs
symbols represent alluvial diamond and brick clay mines within the Monte Christo
Formation and overlying Quaternary sediment respectively.
5
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Table 2 Stratigraphy of units in the vicinity of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine (with the blue
highlighted Monte Christo Formation, which underlies the proposed mine).
Map
Supergroup Group Subgroup Formation
Symbol
undifferentiated
- - - Quaternary gravels and Qg / Qs
surface sediment
Frisco Vmf
Eccles Vme
Transvaal Chuniespoort Malmani Lyttelton Vml
Monte Christo Vmm
Oaktree Vmo

Quaternary (~2.5 Ma to Recent) surface sediment, soil and sometimes diamondiferous (i.e. diamond-
bearing) alluvial (river-sourced) gravels overlie the Malmani Subgroup in the vicinity of the proposed
mine. In the Lichtenburg and Ventersdorp area diamondiferous alluvial gravels were deposited on the
irregular bedrock of the Malmani Subgroup dolomites (and specifically Lyttelton and Monte Christo
Formations) (see Wilson et al. [2006] and Marshall and Norton [2009] for a detailed overview of
diamondiferous gravel deposits and the sources of theses alluvial diamonds in the Lichtenburg and
Ventersdorp region). Over time karstification (i.e. dissolution of carbonate material by surface and/or
groundwater) has resulted in sinkholes forming within the dolomites, which in turn have been filled with
(sometimes diamondiferous) alluvial gravels when surface water transporting alluvial diamonds drained
over the sinkholes in the past these are known as potholes or runs (see Figure 5), with some
extending as deep as 70 meters below ground level (mbgl; e.g. the deep freshwater diving spot
Wondergat, ~40 km northwest of the proposed mine). These diamondiferous potholes can often form
positive topographic expressions because of the hard overlying gravels protecting the underlying strata
from being eroded, whilst the rest of the dolomitic material is denuded/eroded.

Figure 5 Old alluvial diamond diggings in the proposed Mosotetsi mine area. The alluvial gravels
overly the Monte Christo Formation dolomite, which was most likely deposited in a pothole
(or other karst dissolution feature) within the dolomites.
6
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

HYDROGEOLOGY
Dolomitic Karst Aquifers
Dolomite is a magnesium-rich calcium carbonate rock that can dissolve in the presence of water
combined with carbon dioxide (i.e. carbonic acid, H2CO3), which generally happens naturally as part of
weathering processes (DWA, 2009). This dissolution weathering can result in subsurface solution
cavities/cave systems and surface sinkholes/dolines forming, with the resulting dissolution landscape
being known as karst terrain (DWA, 2009). Any local or regional fault or fracture systems can further
enhance dissolution and karst development. These subsurface dissolution systems form excellent
secondary porosity features along which strong flowing groundwater can occur, often forming high-
yielding karst aquifer systems (provided sufficient recharge is present). The Malmani Subgroup in the
vicinity of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine forms such a fractured dolomitic karst aquifer, with
potential yields of ~5-20 litres/second (l/s) or ~0.15-0.5 million cubic metres per annum (hm3/a) per
borehole, which is significantly higher than most other rock formations (see Figure 6). Wetlands, pans,
springs, sinkholes and a lack of surface drainage may also be indicative of subsurface groundwater
bearing solution cavities (Taylor, 1983). Subsidence above major water conduits results in the
accumulation of chert breccia rubble covered by red soil, which is characteristically found adjacent to
ENE-WSW trending dykes in the Lichtenburg area (Taylor, 1983). Generally the dolomite karst aquifers
are unconfined to semi-confined, with compartmentalisation by dolerite dykes occurring (although no
known dykes are observed in the vicinity of the mine).

Figure 6 Hydrogeology (from the 2526 Johannesburg 1:500 000 hydrogeological map) of the area
underlying and surrounding the proposed Mosotetsi mine. According to the map, the
proposed mine is situated on aquifer c5 (green squares), which is classified as a
carbonate karst aquifer with median borehole yields of >5 l/s. Pink dots represent springs
with yields of >5 l/s (~40 km southeast of the proposed mine), whereas yellow and blue
triangles represent groundwater quality and level monitoring points respectively. Red
circles southeast of the proposed mine represent groundwater abstraction of >10 hm3/a for
irrigation and 2-5 hm3/a for domestic supply respectively.
7
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Due to partial dissolution of the dolomitic rock material, dolomite aquifers commonly experience surface
geotechnical problems such as sinkhole/doline formation, representing a local safety risk. Sinkhole
development can occur naturally along dykes, rivers, fractures/fault zones and above subsurface
dissolution cavities, but also can be caused by unmanaged and uncontrolled abstraction and/or
dewatering of dolomite aquifers (more than 5-10 m of drawdown), as well as the uncontrolled flow of acid
mine drainage (DWAF [2006a] and Howard et al. [2002]). It is recommended that the Guideline for the
Assessment, Planning and Management of Groundwater Resources within Dolomitic Areas in South
Africa (DWAF, 2006a) is closely followed during the establishment and mining of the site, along with
other documents referred to in DWA (2009).

Aquifer Properties and Groundwater Use


The transmissivity of the Monte Christo Formation dolomitic karst aquifer on Kwaggaslaagte is variable
(due to the heterogeneous nature of karst aquifers caused by dissolution features), and ranges between
8-500 m2/day (VSA, 1995). Pumping test results from boreholes drilled on Kwaggaslaagte in 1995 show
that groundwater levels recovered to their original states within minutes, indicating the presence of a
highly transmissive unconfined dolomitic aquifer (VSA, 1995). The most transmissive areas are
expectedly associated with fractures, faults and cavities, whereas solid, unfractured and undissolved
dolomite can be dry (DWAF, 2006b). As with transmissivity, storage is highly variable due to the
heterogeneous nature of the dolomites and ranges between 1-5 % (Bredenkamp, 1995).
DWS NGA yield data from recorded boreholes within ~5 km of the proposed mine ranges from
~0.7-60 l/s (average yield of ~19 l/s), with boreholes depths of ~6-90 mbgl (average depth of ~41 mbgl)
and rest water levels (RWL) of ~23-37 mbgl (average RWL of ~29 mbgl, correlating with average water
levels of 25-30 mbgl for the area from the North West groundwater map) (see Table 3, Figure 7 and
Figure 8). The variation in yield is likely the result of some boreholes intersecting high-yielding karst
features, with lower yielding borehole intersecting more solid, undissolved dolomite. General groundwater
flow in the vicinity of the proposed mine is likely in a south to southwesterly direction, based on NGA
RWLs and topography (this is highly dependent on underlying karst conditions however). DWS WARMS
data within ~10 km of the proposed mine indicates registered volumes of ~9 600-1 969 200 m3/a, with a
total groundwater abstraction of ~19.3 million m3/a in the vicinity of the mine (see Table 4 and Figure 9).
No recorded NGA boreholes, or WARMS water use registrations/licences, are present within the
boundaries of the proposed mine.
Based on the Grootpan Water Supply Scheme, the villages of Grootpan and Ga-Motlatla currently
abstract 0.02 million m3/a of groundwater, which is projected to increase to 0.029 million m3/a by 2030
(DWA, 2010a). The available yield of the aquifer in the immediate area of these villages is predicted at
~3.1 million m3/a, while the potential exploitable groundwater for the whole C24C and C24F quaternary
catchments is ~22 million m3/a and 34 million m3/a (see Table 1), which indicates that there is significant
groundwater available for growth and further development in the region (DWA, 2010a).

Groundwater Quality
Groundwater quality is relatively good within the North West, with 60% of groundwater samples falling
within drinking water limits (Howard et al., 2002). On a regional 1:500 000 hydrogeological scale the
karst aquifers in the vicinity of the proposed mine have electrical conductivities (ECs) of
~0-70 milliSiemens per metre (mS/m), which is well below the SANS 241:2015 drinking water quality EC
limit of 170 mS/m. It is noted however that groundwater in the province is prone to salinization through
irrigation due to the semi-arid climatic conditions, relatively low rainfall and high evapotranspiration
(Howard et al., 2002). The geological and hydrogeological features responsible for dolomites being such
good aquifers (as described above, namely unconfined to semi-confined in nature, and surface to depth

8
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

dissolution features with high transmissivities and yields) also results in them being highly vulnerable to
anthropogenic contamination.
Groundwater quality in the Monte Christo Formation dolomites in the area surrounding the proposed mine
is good but hard (i.e. elevated alkalinity, calcium and magnesium concentrations, which is expected from
dolomitic aquifers). DWS WMS groundwater samples within ~5 km of the proposed mine (see Figure 10
and Figure 11) were compared to the SANS 241:2015 drinking water quality limits (see Table 5), with
groundwater being generally suitable for potable and industrial use. No WMS trace metal analyses or
data were available for boreholes within ~5 km of the proposed mine.

Table 3 DWS NGA borehole data within a ~5 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine.
Field BH BH Rest Water
Quaternary Discharge EC RWL
BH ID Latitude Longitude Farm Name Q (l/s) Chemistry Depth Diameter Level (RWL)
Catchment (Q) Date (mS/m) (mbgl)
Date (mbgl) (mm) Date
2626BA00090 -26.06719 26.56632 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F 5-Feb-10 2.63 - - 44.8 152 5-Feb-10 34.14
2626BA00091 -26.06720 26.56632 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F 23-Mar-10 2.63 - - 44.2 203 23-Mar-10 35.36
2626BA00092 -26.06719 26.56633 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F 1-Apr-39 1.51 - - 43.28 152 1-Apr-39 36.58
2626BA00176 -26.08891 26.57243 GA-MOTLATLA VILLAGE C24F 26-Mar-95 0.73 - - 74.2 203 11-Mar-95 36.56
2626BA00178 -26.07318 26.56769 GA-MOTLATLA VILLAGE C24F 29-Mar-95 2 - - 6.5 152 - -
2626BA00179 -26.07734 26.57259 GA-MOTLATLA VILLAGE C24F 30-Mar-95 9.8 - - 6.5 219 - -
2626BA00181 -26.08890 26.57242 GA-MOTLATLA VILLAGE C24F - - - - 43 152 - -
2626BA00184 -26.03791 26.53693 CORSENDAE C24F - - - - 42 152 - -
2626BA00190 -26.10185 26.53515 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 30 152 - -
2626BA00201 -26.11124 26.51740 GOEDVOORUITZIGHT C24F - - - - 30 152 - -
2626BA00202 -26.11130 26.51762 GOEDVOORUITZIGHT C24F - - - - 30 152 - -
2626BA00203 -26.08946 26.57268 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F - - - - 30 152 - -
2626BA00219 -26.11095 26.51574 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - - - - -
2626BA00263 -26.08913 26.57270 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F - - 25-Mar-87 49.5 - - - -
2626BA00265 -26.07302 26.56881 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F - - 25-Mar-87 54 44 152 - -
2626BA00267 -26.07302 26.56881 KWAGGASLAAGTE C24F - - 25-Mar-87 52.1 44 152 25-Mar-87 31.8
2626BA00328 -26.05468 26.59548 ZWARTRAND C24C - - - - 24.38 152 26-Mar-87 29.32
2626BA00329 -26.06052 26.60187 ZWARTRAND C24C 26-Mar-87 5 - - 91.44 152 - -
2626BA00330 -26.06052 26.60576 ZWARTRAND C24C 26-Mar-87 25 26-Mar-87 44.1 42.67 152 - -
2626BA00331 -26.06163 26.60548 ZWARTRAND C24C 26-Mar-87 25 - - 45.12 152 - -
2626BA00332 -26.06052 26.60659 ZWARTRAND C24C 26-Mar-87 25 - - 45.72 152 26-Mar-87 25.51
2626BA00333 -26.06218 26.60630 ZWARTRAND C24C 26-Mar-87 25 - - 33.53 152 26-Mar-87 26.46
2626BA00383 -26.10385 26.53798 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 34.14 152 23-Apr-87 28.9
2626BA00384 -26.10552 26.54020 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 61 23-Apr-87 48.5 60 152 - -
2626BA00385 -26.10468 26.54076 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 25 - - 60 152 23-Apr-87 27.1
2626BA00386 -26.10218 26.54631 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 25 23-Apr-87 49.3 60 152 23-Apr-87 29.33
2626BA00387 -26.10218 26.54659 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 28 23-Apr-87 49.3 60 152 23-Apr-87 29.26
2626BA00388 -26.10274 26.54687 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 38 23-Apr-87 49.3 60 152 - -
2626BA00389 -26.10135 26.54659 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 24 23-Apr-87 49.3 60 152 23-Apr-87 29.3
2626BA00390 -26.11357 26.51770 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 36.58 152 23-Apr-87 23.48
2626BA00391 -26.11496 26.51770 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 36.58 152 23-Apr-87 23.48
2626BA00392 -26.11163 26.51687 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 36.58 152 23-Apr-87 23.54
2626BA00393 -26.10802 26.51687 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F 23-Apr-87 24 - - 27 152 - -
2626BA00394 -26.10274 26.51103 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 28.04 152 23-Apr-87 23.38
2626BA00396 -26.10690 26.51465 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - - - 36.58 152 23-Apr-87 22.93
2626BA00400 -26.08079 26.50798 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - 23-Apr-87 54.8 - 152 26-Apr-87 31.59
2626BA00401 -26.08052 26.50826 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - 23-Apr-87 54.8 - 152 26-Apr-87 31.56
2626BA00402 -26.07996 26.50687 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - 23-Apr-87 54.8 - 152 - -
2626BA00403 -26.07885 26.50826 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - 26-Apr-87 54.8 - 152 - -
2626BA00404 -26.07857 26.50603 GOEDVOORUITZICHT C24F - - 26-Apr-87 54.8 - 152 - -
2626BA00433 -26.10913 26.53687 ROODEPOORTJE C24F 23-Apr-87 1 15-Apr-87 58 36.58 152 - -
2626BA00437 -26.11552 26.52131 ROODEPOORTJE C24F - - - - 36.58 152 15-Apr-87 29.16
2626BA00474 -26.04107 26.53687 CORSINDAE C24F 30-Mar-87 25 - - 36.58 152 30-Mar-87 30.15
2626BA00475 -26.04024 26.53798 CORSINDAE C24F 30-Mar-87 23 - - 36.58 152 - -
2626BA00476 -26.04108 26.53799 CORSINDAE C24F 1-Jan-87 23 30-Mar-87 39.5 36.58 152 - -
Average 19.2 - 51.1 41.4 - - 29.0

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Figure 7 DWS NGA boreholes (red circles) within a ~5 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond
mine (red marker).

Figure 8 DWS NGA boreholes (red circles) within a ~5 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond
mine (red marker), overlaid on the 2626 West Rand 1:250 000 geological map.
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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Table 4 DWS WARMS borehole data within a 10 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine.
Register Quaternary Resource Registered
Latitude Longitude Water Use Sector
No. Catchment Type Volume (m 3/a)
23027733 -26.057220 26.632780 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 850450
23028572 -26.017200 26.626400 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 108300
23028778 -26.098330 26.643330 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1816000
23029081 -26.157100 26.538100 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 685000
23029232 -26.000000 26.550000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 289360
23032193 -26.150000 26.500000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 60450
23033717 -26.036389 26.537222 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 854500
23033824 -26.020000 26.550000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 883125
23036180 -26.037200 26.618100 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1429454
23037394 -26.113400 26.502800 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 410750
23038115 -26.133600 26.532900 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 656400
23038142 -26.010200 26.478800 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1107480
23038721 -26.053890 26.622220 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 140000
23038749 -26.157100 26.538100 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 832000
23038954 -26.090000 26.500000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 294000
23039098 -26.099800 26.522400 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1190000
23039604 -26.002800 26.534000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1969200
23043118 -26.020000 26.510000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 602794
23048355 -26.028610 26.603330 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 585650
23048916 -26.140000 26.530000 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1024000
23049158 -26.026670 26.615280 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 1222000
23050234 -26.090280 26.651390 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 876730
23053561 -26.019470 26.540335 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 500000
23055435 -26.119100 26.517400 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 73500
23055444 -26.119100 26.517400 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 73500
23055453 -26.119100 26.517400 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 73500
23058897 -26.081389 26.594444 C24F MINING BOREHOLE 9600
23068519 -26.067000 26.472100 C24C AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 533660
23071140 -26.067610 26.473130 C24F AGRICULTURE: IRRIGATION BOREHOLE 105750
Total 19257153

Figure 9 DWS WARMS boreholes (purple circles) within a ~10 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi
diamond mine (red marker).
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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Figure 10 DWS WMS boreholes (orange circles) within a ~5 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi
diamond mine (red marker).

Figure 11 DWS WMS boreholes (orange circles) within a ~5 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi
diamond mine (red marker), overlaid on the 2626 West Rand 1:250 000 geological map.
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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Table 5 DWS WMS hydrochemical data from boreholes within a ~5 km radius of the proposed
Mosotetsi diamond mine. The samples are compared to the SANS 241:2015 drinking water
standard, with samples that do not meet the standard being highlighted in red.
Macrochemical constituents are measured in milligrams per litre (mg/l), with the exception
of pH and electrical conductivity (mS/m).
Quaternary Sample
Sample ID Latitude Longitude pH EC TAL Ca Mg Na K Si Cl F NH4 NO3 PO4 SO4
Catchment Date
2626BA00184 -26.03739 26.53728 C24F 22-Mar-01 8.70 52.60 260.99 63.37 32.61 4.64 1.21 8.74 5.00 0.12 0.02 3.76 0.02 2.00
2626BA00190 -26.10139 26.53550 C24F 13-Mar-01 8.46 58.70 241.36 60.56 35.49 4.51 0.72 8.44 5.00 0.15 0.02 12.18 0.01 4.15
2626BA00201 -26.11072 26.51775 C24F 13-Mar-01 8.34 71.60 336.65 82.45 44.26 3.60 0.83 7.59 12.08 0.14 0.02 9.19 0.01 7.94
2626BA00202 -26.11078 26.51797 C24F 13-Mar-01 8.31 71.80 338.34 83.32 45.61 3.50 0.76 7.11 12.73 0.14 0.02 8.79 0.01 14.41
2626BA00203 -26.08894 26.57303 C24F 16-Mar-01 8.28 60.30 292.59 66.76 37.51 6.51 1.43 9.76 5.00 0.20 0.02 7.00 0.02 2.00
GOEDVOORUITZICHT 12382 -26.10194 26.51750 C24F 25-Oct-76 7.99 59.80 134.60 40.90 42.70 7.00 1.54 7.80 68.30 0.05 0.18 12.89 0.00 2.00
KWAGGASLAAGTE 12366 -26.06778 26.58444 C24C 22-Oct-76 8.17 59.60 246.50 53.10 35.30 3.80 1.07 6.12 29.10 0.05 3.37 3.54 0.01 2.00
KWAGGASLAAGTE 985 -26.06667 26.56667 C24F 22-Oct-76 7.98 49.10 221.10 28.60 39.40 6.40 1.29 8.53 9.40 0.05 1.29 7.45 0.02 2.00
ROODEPOORTJIE -26.08444 26.51750 C24F 26-Oct-76 8.11 47.60 208.30 30.00 44.00 3.00 0.86 4.82 20.00 0.05 1.93 4.45 0.01 2.00
Average 8.26 59.01 253.38 56.56 39.65 4.77 1.08 7.66 18.51 0.10 0.76 7.69 0.01 4.28

Existing hydrochemical concerns include:


Elevated ammonia (NH4) concentrations at two boreholes (Kwaggaslaagte 12366 and
Roodepoortjie) above the SANS 241:2015 drinking water quality limit of 1.5 mg/l the presence
of ammonia is likely from the use of ammonia/nitrate and/or livestock manure fertilizer, or human
and/or animal waste contamination from the nearby village of Ga-Motlatla entering the dolomite
aquifers at surface;
Elevated nitrate (NO3) concentrations for all boreholes (and above the SANS 241:2015 drinking
water quality limit of 11 mg/l at two boreholes, namely 2626BA00190 and Goedvooruitzicht
12382) the presence of nitrates is likely from the use of nitrate and/or livestock manure fertilizer,
or human and/or animal waste contamination from the nearby village of Ga-Motlatla entering the
dolomite aquifers at surface;
Naturally elevated calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and total alkalinity (TAL; and associated
hardness) concentrations, which can lead to the scaling and carbonate salt encrustation of any
water reticulation infrastructure and equipment that may make use of the groundwater.

FIELD HYDROCENSUS
A hydrocensus and site visit by an Umvoto Africa staff member took place from the 7 th to 9th June 2016
(winter, at the end of a prolonged El Nino induced drought, which might result in lowered groundwater
levels) (see Table 6 and Figure 12). Five boreholes (including one that supplies Ga-Motlatla village) in
the vicinity of the proposed mine were visited it was noted however that the majority of the NGA
boreholes identified around Ga-Motlatla are no longer functioning due to poor maintenance or rocks being
thrown down the boreholes, resulting in the boreholes been blocked. Mr Molebatsi (owner of the
proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine) stated that there is a borehole (BH 3) ~1 km southwest of the mine
concession that has previously been used for mining, which has a good yield of ~2 l/s (the borehole could
however not be located during the hydrocensus, and the position on the map has been estimated). The
proposed mine owner was unsure of the exact water requirements for the mine, but it is likely they will
be in the range of ~10 000 l/day from (~0.35 l/s pumping rate based on an 8 hour pumping day). EC of
the measured boreholes was ~58 mS/m, meeting the SANS 241:2015 drinking water standard.
It was noted by a nearby Profet farmer that water levels within the Monte Christo Formation dolomite
aquifer east of the R53 (~6 km east of Ga-Motlatla) are ~40 mbgl and have dropped over the past 2 years
(likely due to drought conditions and associated groundwater overabstraction), and that water levels
further east within the Lyttelton Formation dolomite aquifer were even deeper at ~100 mbgl.

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Table 6 Boreholes within a ~2 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine visited during the
field hydrocensus.
Borehole Latitude Longitude RWL (mbgl) Yield (l/s) EC (mS/m) pH Comments
BH 1
26.07915 26.57280 - ~5 58 7 Ga-Motlatla village borehole
(2626BA00179)
BH 2 26.08266 26.57218 - ~2 - - Ga-Motlatla borehole blocked with rocks
Kwaggaslaagte farm borehole not located during the visit but
BH 3 - - - ~2 - -
~1 km southwest of proposed Mosotetsi mine
BH 4 26.07358 26.58838 - - 58.8 7.7 Windmill east of Ga-Motlatla village
BH 5 26.05544 26.62884 ~40 - - - Profet farm boreholes, noted dropping RWL over last 2 years

Figure 12 Boreholes within a ~2 km radius of the proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine (yellow polygon)
within Kwaggaslaagte 1/121 (red polygon), visited during the June 2016 field hydrocensus.

SMALL SCALE DIAMOND MINING METHOD


The Department of Minerals Resources (DMR) has in recent years promoted small scale/artisanal mining
because of its ability to create jobs, and also generate wealth for poorer communities whom have no
other means of supporting themselves (Naidoo-Vermaak, 2006). Artisanal alluvial diamond mining, which
mainly involves the recovery of alluvial diamonds found in fluvial deposits or potholes (which are common
in the Lichtenburg area), is described as a small scale operation with less than 600 000 tonnes of earth
mined per annum (Naidoo-Vermaak, 2006). It is characterised by the use of low-end technology, and

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

labour intensive and unskilled operations, with mining generally being undertaken using pick and shovels
or with basic digging, extraction and sifting/sorting equipment.
The proposed Mosotetsi diamond mine aims to use basic equipment for mining, consisting of a JLB
excavator for digging, collection/storage bins, conveyer belt, sifter/sorter, and 10 foot pan (for washing),
although none of this has been finalised as part of a mine works programme (see Figure 13). A small
tailings dam facility might also be required. The proposed mine also plans to build a fuel storage area,
workshop, store room, ablution block, accommodation, dining room and kitchen, office, staff room, sorting
room and security office on the land surrounding the 1.5 ha mining concession.

Figure 13 Example of the basic machinery used for small scale diamond mining near Carlisonia.

POTENTIAL HYDROGEOLOGICAL IMPACTS


Environmental impacts are often associated with small scale mining because of the lack of money to
execute sound environmental practices, and also a lack of knowledge regarding potential negative
impacts from low-end technology mining practices (Naidoo-Vermaak, 2006).
Potential hydrogeological impacts include (based on general small scale mining methods, as no
defined/detailed mining work programme is currently available):
Groundwater Quality Unconfined dolomite aquifers, especially in the presence of surface to
depth karst dissolution voids and cavities with increased hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity,
are highly vulnerable to anthropogenic surface contamination hazards such as:
o machinery fuel leaks and oil spills (hydrocarbons);
o acid mine drainage (AMD) and mobilised trace metals, if mineralised dolomite is exposed
to the atmosphere in tailings piles, mining pits and trenches, and filled during rainfall
recharge events resulting in ponding and infiltration;

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

o infiltration of possible AMD water and trace metals into the aquifer from tailings dams, if
present and unlined (also potential tailings dam leakage during large rainfall/flooding
events); and
o sewage leaks from staff buildings or portable toilets on-site (nitrates, microbiological
contamination and trace metals).
Due to the small scale nature and size of the proposed mining activity (and therefore small
amounts of potential contaminants involved, although this is also highly dependent on the extent
of any mineralisation present within the dolomites), the actual contamination hazard at a local
scale is likely to be low, resulting in a low risk of groundwater contamination (despite the high
vulnerability of the underlying dolomite aquifers). However this contamination risk to the entire
dolomitic aquifer system may increase to moderate at a regional level, when taking into account
numerous other small scale mining operations in the surrounding area (if unregulated from an
environmental perspective). Potential contamination receptors, other than the entire Monte
Christo Formation dolomitic aquifer underlying the mine area, include irrigation boreholes in the
nearby vicinity (closest potential irrigation boreholes ~2.5-4 km west and southwest of the
proposed mining site, based on NGA records). Provided groundwater flow direction is still in a
south-southwest direction, the Ga-Motlatla village abstraction boreholes are up-gradient of any
potential contamination plume from the proposed mine, and are therefore at very low risk to any
potential contamination originating from the proposed mine.
Groundwater Quantity The proposed mine plans to use groundwater from a nearby borehole,
at likely volumes of up to 10 000 l/day (10 m3/day / 3650 m3/a, or ~0.35 l/s pumping rate based
on an 8 hour pumping day). Due to the extensive groundwater resources available in the
immediate area (likely to be ~3 million m3/a), the abstraction of ~3650 m3/a for mining is highly
unlikely to have an impact on available groundwater resources and water levels in the area, even
during drought conditions. The risk of mining to groundwater quantity can therefore be defined
as very low.
Groundwater Recharge Mining operations may influence groundwater recharge in both a
positive and negative sense. Tailings dams, open mine diggings and trenches may increase
recharge into the aquifer locally artificially, via the ponding of surface water. These same tailings
dams, diggings and trenches may however alter runoff flow, negatively reducing recharge in other
parts of the aquifer locally. Mine vehicles used may compact the aquifer surface reducing
recharge locally as well. Due to the small extent of the proposed mining operation, the risk of
significantly negatively altering groundwater recharge into the aquifer is considered very low.
Groundwater Dewatering It is expected that the proposed mining will take place above the
highest encountered groundwater water levels in the area (~25-40 mbgl), therefore the risk of
groundwater dewatering through mining is considered very low.
Sinkhole Development Due to the low volumes expected to be abstracted and unlikely reduction
in water levels, the risk of sinkhole development via karst collapse from lowered water levels is
considered very low. Local zones of increased recharge via tailings dams, diggings and trenches,
in association with potential AMD may result in the development of new karst features below the
mine however, which might result in a low to moderate local risk of surface subsidence features.
Surface Water Impacts No surface drainage or rivers are present within the immediate vicinity
of the proposed mine, with the headwaters of the Taaibosspruit River being ~20 km from the mine
area (with the closest related high yielding discharge springs being ~40 km south of the proposed
mine). Any leaks or flow from tailings dams etc. will also likely infiltrate into the surrounding
dolomite aquifer (see above), with any contamination likely to be attenuated and diluted before
reaching regional discharge springs. Surface water impacts are therefore considered very low
risk.

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

RECOMMENDATIONS AND MITIGATION MEASURES


By monitoring and regulating small scale mining, the potential hydrogeological impacts to the receiving
environment and be reduced. The following mitigation measures and future studies is recommended:
Pre-Mining Studies The following essential additional studies should be undertaken prior to any
mining at the proposed Mosotetsi mine
o Mineral Resource Assessment Determination of where various potential diamondiferous
potholes are within the proposed mining area, through detailed geological mapping,
geophysics and mineralogical analysis (see African Diamond AB [2015] for an example of
a nearby alluvial diamond resource assessment). This will affect where mining is to take
place within the concession as well as the associated mine design and mine works
programme (e.g. length of trenches and diggings, depth of trenching, size of tailings dam
facility if required etc.), and therefore what the severity of potential hydrogeological
impacts may be.
o Geotechnical Assessment Due to the risk of sinkhole development in karst dolomitic
terranes, detailed geotechnical assessments should be taken prior to mining to determine
any high risk zones that should be avoided during mining.
o Mine Design and Mine Works Programme Essential in determining the risk of various
hydrogeological impacts/hazards to a greater degree of confidence.
Groundwater Monitoring A groundwater monitoring network (both quality and quantity) should
be established in association with the DWS and surrounding small scale diamond mines in the
Ga-Motlatla and northwest Ventersdorp area. This is to determine and monitor any potential
impacts on groundwater quantity (reduced yields and declining water levels) and quality (acidity,
hydrocarbons, trace metals, microbiology etc.) from the proposed mining. This should include:
o Monitoring of water levels and abstraction volumes from the proposed BH 3 abstraction
borehole at Mosotetsi pre-, during the duration of, and post-mining, through the installation
of a flow meter and water level datalogger (to be implemented by Mosotetsi, and a
requirement of any groundwater registration/WUL).
o Monitoring of water levels and abstraction volumes from the Ga-Motlatla village
abstraction borehole pre-, during the duration of, and post-mining, through the installation
of a flow meter and water level datalogger (to be implemented by the DWS if not already
currently done).
o Monitoring of water levels and abstraction volumes from any other nearby mine
abstraction boreholes pre-, during the duration of, and post-mining, through the installation
of a flow meter and water level datalogger (to be implemented by the other mine owners
and regulated by DWS if not already currently done).
o Collection of baseline hydrochemistry samples for analysis from BH 3 at the proposed
Mosotetsi mine, from the Ga-Motlatla abstraction boreholes, and from the nearest farming
irrigation borehole to the southwest of the proposed mine. This hydrochemical sampling
and analysis is to be repeated at least bi-annually during mine operation, and annually
after mine closure. Hydrochemical constituents to be analysed should include, but not be
restricted to the following:
Macrochemistry pH, EC, total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand
(COD), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), alkalinity, hardness, calcium,
magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, fluoride, sulphate, phosphate, ammonia,
nitrate, nitrite, total petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease

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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

Dissolved metals aluminium, iron, manganese, copper, cobalt, chromium, nickel,


arsenic, lead, zinc, selenium, vanadium, titanium, silver, lithium, beryllium, boron,
strontium, molybdenum, cadmium, tin, antimony, barium, mercury, thallium,
uranium
Microbiology Total coliforms and E. coli
Groundwater Quality A variety of mitigation measures to reduce the impacts of potential
groundwater contamination are as follows:
o Portable toilets must be set up correctly and regularly emptied to prevent any leaks and
potential contamination of the aquifer, while any office rubbish must be removed to a
landfill site.
o Fuel needs to be stored in a specified lined area to prevent any chance of contamination
to the soil and aquifer.
o Mining equipment is regularly maintained to prevent any fuel or oil leaks.
o Correct lining of any tailings dam facilities, as well as ensuring correct dam wall heights,
in order to prevent infiltration of potential contaminants and overflow respectively.
o Tailings piles should be lined covered, to reduce exposure to the atmosphere and prevent
infiltration of potential contaminants.
o Funnelling of all drainage from mining operations to tailings dam facilities via lined
channels with bund walls and swales, in order to reduce infiltration of potential AMD water
into the aquifer.
o Concurrent rehabilitation of diggings and trenches once excavated zones are complete
through re-filling with excavated material to existing surface levels and re-vegetation at
surface, in order to prevent the exposure of any mineralised zones within the dolomite to
the atmosphere and reduce the potential development of AMD, and subsequent infiltration
into the aquifer.
Groundwater Registration and Water Use Licensing Section 21 (attached below) of the National
Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) defines what water use is, and therefore deals with what would
require a WUL from the regulatory authorities (namely DWS).

The C24F quaternary catchment (within which the proposed Mosotetsi mine occurs) does not
have a Section 21 (a) General Authorisation (GA) for groundwater abstraction, hence a.
Section 21 (a) and (b) deal with taking water from a resource and storing it. Groundwater use,
i.e. Section 21 (a), for domestic use and non-commercial use (called Schedule 1 use), is excluded
from this requirement. To lower the administrative burden on the DWS, the Minister can declare
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Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

a General Authorisation (GA) for any water use, subject to limits and conditions. Although water
use under the GA is not required to be licenced, it must still be registered with the DWS (if
abstraction over 10 m3 occurs on any given day). Any water use that exceeds the GA limits, with
the exception of Schedule 1, requires a WUL. There is currently no GA for Section 21 (a)
groundwater abstraction for the C24F quaternary catchment (within which the proposed BH 3
abstraction borehole and Mosotetsi mine are situated). This means all groundwater abstraction
within the catchment requires a WUL, with the exception of Schedule 1 use and small industrial
users (which the proposed mine could potentially be classified as, and would only then require
groundwater registration with the DWS). Borehole details (geographic position, construction,
geology etc.) are also required to be registered on the DWS NGA.
It is unlikely water will be stored in dams on-site if abstracted (and any tailings dams will be small
volume dams), so Section 21 (b) would not apply. Sections 21 (c), (d) and (i) deal with impending,
diverting, altering or reducing stream flow in surface watercourses. These sections may apply to
the proposed Mosotetsi mine, depending on:
the definition of what a surface watercourse is and whether watercourses and/or wetlands
are present within the mining concession (to be determined by a hydrology expert); and
whether mining and associated activities will occur within these defined watercourses
and/or.
Sections 21 (e) to (h) deals with discharging waste in a water resource, which may apply to the
proposed mine, if tailings dam facilities are constructed, or there is potential for mine wastewater
to infiltrate into the underlying dolomite aquifer, and a WUL may be required in this instance.
Section 21 (k) refers to using water for recreational activities and Section 21 (j) is the activity that
includes dewatering for mining purposes, which both do not apply to the proposed mine (providing
trenching and digging is to occur above the groundwater table with respect to the latter).
If the proposed mining development is authorised then the mitigation measures and recommendations
as captured in this report should be followed, in order to ensure groundwater quality and quantity of the
underlying Monte Christo Formation dolomitic aquifer is not impacted severely, and the surrounding
community of Ga-Motlatla and local farmers who make use of groundwater are not adversely affected.

Yours sincerely

Dylan Blake David Colquhoun McGibbon


Associate / Principal Geologist Pr.Sci.Nat Trainee Geologist Cand.Sci.Nat
Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd

19
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

REFERENCES

African Diamond AB. (2015). African Diamond AB Bakerville Presentation, September 2015
(http://adiam.se/Presentasjon_Bakerville.pdf).

Bredenkamp, D. B. (1995). Dolomitic Groundwater Resources of the Republic of South Africa.

Button, A. (1976). Stratigraphy and relations of the Bushveld floor in the eastern Transvaal. Transactions
of the Geological Society of South Africa, 79, 3-12.
Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs. (1986). 1:250 000 2626 West Rand Geological Series Map.
Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs, Pretoria, South Africa.

Department of Water Affairs (DWA). (2009). Dolomite Guideline: A short guide to available documents
on procedures for developing dolomitic land. DWA, Pretoria, 23pp.

Department of Water Affairs (DWA). (2010a). Development of a Reconciliation Strategy for All Towns in
the Northern Region. Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Ditsobotla Local Municipality.
First Order Reconciliation Strategy for Grootpan Water Supply Scheme: Grootpan and Ga-
Motlatla. Prepared by SRK Consulting for DWA Directorate: National Water Resource Planning,
Pretoria, 12pp.
Department of Water Affairs (DWA). (2010b). Groundwater Resource Directed Measures (GRDM)
software. DWA, Pretoria, 137pp.
Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF). (1999). 1:500 000 2526 Johannesburg
Hydrogeological Map Series of the Republic of South Africa. DWAF, Pretoria, South Africa.

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF). (2006a). A Guideline for the Assessment, Planning
and Management of Groundwater Resources within Dolomitic Areas in South Africa, Edition 1.
Prepared by G. Hubert, F. Wimberely T. and Pieterson for the DWAF. DWAF, Pretoria, 22pp.

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF). (2006b). Vaal River System: Large Bulk Supply
Reconciliation Strategy. Groundwater Assessment: Dolomite Aquifers. DMM Development
Consultants, Golder Associates Africa, SRK, WRP Consulting Engineers and Zitholele Consulting
on behalf of DWAF. DWAF Report Number: P RSA C000/00/4406/06, Pretoria, 64pp.

Eriksson, K. A. and Truswell, J. F. (1974). Tidal flat associations from the lower Proterozoic carbonate
sequence in South Africa. Sedimentology, 21, 293-309.

Howard, M., Mangold, S. and Mpambane, S. (2002). North West Province State of the Environment
Report. Chapter 10: Water Resources (http://www.nwpg.gov.za/soer/FullReport/water.html#2).

Marshall, T. R. and Norton, G. A. (2009). The nature of the alluvial diamond deposits of the Ventersdorp
District, North West Province, South Africa. South African Journal of Geology, 112, 109-124.

Middleton, B. J. and Bailey, A. K. (2008). Water Resources of South Africa 2005 Study (WR2005). WRC
Report Number TT 381/08.

Naidoo-Vermaak, M., (2006). The impacts of small scale artisanal diamond mining on the environment.
Unpublished MScEng mini dissertation, University of Johannesburg, 156pp.

Taylor, C. J. (1983). A geohydrological investigation in the Lichtenburg area, Bo-Molopo Subterranean


Water Control Area. Department of Water Affairs, Pretoria, 38pp.

20
Mosotetsi Hydrogeological Specialist Study

VSA Earth Science Consultants, (1995). RDP1 Community Water Supply Project: Brits, Marico, Koster,
Rustenburg and Ventersdorp Districts. Drilling and Testing of Boreholes March 1995 April 1995.
Prepared by VSA Earth Science Consultants for the Department of Water Affairs, 5pp.

Wilson, M. G. C., Henry, G. and Marshall, T. R., (2006). A review of the alluvial diamond industry and the
gravels of the North West Province, South Africa. South African Journal of Geology, 109, 301-
314.

APPENDIX A: HYDROGEOLOGICAL SPECIALIST CVs

21
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
Full Name Dylan Blake
Position/Profession Associate-Principal Geologist / Earth Scientist
Year of Birth 1983
Experience 10 years
Nationality South African (ID No: 830911 5006 089)

LANGUAGES
Read Write Speak
English Fluent Fluent Fluent
Afrikaans Fair Fair Fair

TERTIARY EDUCATION

2006 BSc (Hons) Geology (Cum Laude) University of KwaZulu-Natal


2003 BSc Geology and Environmental University of Natal
Science (Summa Cum Laude)

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Registered SACNASP Professional Natural Scientist 400048/13 (Geological Science, Earth


Science, Environmental Science)
Member Geological Society of South Africa (Main Society - 964917, Groundwater Division -
273)
Member Water Institute of Southern Africa (Member - 24109, Young Water Professional)
Reviewer UNEP GEO-6 Africa Regional Assessment Reviewer
Member Golden Key International Honours Society

PROFESSIONAL AWARDS

Runner-up / WISA Excellence in Water Research Award for Outstanding Young Researcher, 2010
Special Mention
Honours Award Third best Geology Honours thesis in South Africa, 2006
Honours Scholarship UKZN Honours Scholarship, 2004
Rosenbach Placed first among University of Natal undergraduate students, 2003
Scholarship
Prestige Scholarship Placed second amongst University of Natal undergraduate students, 2002
Brenda Gourley Placed third amongst University of Natal undergraduate students, 2001
Scholarship

PAPERS AND PUBLICATIONS

Conference Papers and Presentations: 25+


Journals / Books: 7
Consulting Reports: 100+

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES

2016 Growing Companies Through High-Performance Boards Governance Workshop (Sirdar)


2016 Accident Prevention, Collision Avoidance and Skid Control (Killarney Training Centre)
2011 4 x 4 Off Road Training (SANOTA/GearUp 4x4)
2010 Thinking, Innovation & Problem Solving Skills (TIPS) (Synnovation)

OVERVIEW OF EXPERIENCE

2016 - present Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd Associate / Principal Geologist


2014 - 2016 Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd Senior Geologist

1
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
2007 - 2014 Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd Geologist
2006 - 2007 Council for Geoscience (Marine Research Assistant
Geoscience Unit)
2004 - 2006 University of KwaZulu-Natal Tutor / Demonstrator

KEY SKILLS

Dylan Blake received 42 distinctions during the course of his undergraduate and Honours degree studies in
Geology and Environmental Science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he specialised in coastal and
marine geology. During this time he undertook work in the fields of geological and geomorphological field
mapping, sediment analysis, differential GPS surveying and transmitted and reflected light microscopy, as
well as becoming familiar with many of the standard geological analysis software packages and GIS tools,
and report writing requirements.
Since joining Umvoto in 2007, Dylan has become proficient in hydrogeological desktop (DWS NGA, WARMS
and WMS data) and field monitoring data collection and analysis, groundwater assessments, South African
environmental/resource legislation (NWA, NEMA, NEMA: ICM, MPRDA etc.) and groundwater use licensing,
and rotary/core drilling supervision/contract management. He has significant experience in Table Mountain
Group and Sandveld/Bredasdorp Group stratigraphic analysis, and structural modelling and fractured rock
reservoir estimates of the Peninsula and Skurweberg Formation aquifers. Dylan has sited high yielding
boreholes in structurally complex regions of the Table Mountain and Bokkeveld Groups, and has undertaken
numerous groundwater assessments for farms, towns, schools, solar facilities and municipalities across the
Western and Eastern Cape (including Villiersdorp and Voorstekraal, farms near McGregor, Wellington,
Queenstown and George, and numerous other towns as part of the Southern All Towns Reconciliation
Strategy Study), North West and Limpopo (including the Bela-Bela, Modimolle and Mookgophong Local
Municipalities for the Magalies Water to Waterberg project) provinces. He has an extensive knowledge of the
geology and hydrogeology of South Africa, Ethiopia and Namibia, having grown up and studied in KZN,
worked for the past 5 years in the Western and Eastern Cape, and having frequently travelled to the northern
provinces of South Africa, Ethiopia and Namibia as part of various geological field trips and hydrogeological
projects.
His knowledge of coastal zone dynamics, sedimentary formations, environments and processes along the
South African coastline has introduced additional expertise to the company, and he has undertaken large-
scale coastal hazard assessments for the City of Cape Town and Provincial Government of the Western
Cape. He has also worked on various mineral exploration and disaster risk reduction projects and initiatives,
assisting the remote sensing team with geological and structural interpretations, and has a personal interest
in the potential effects of shale gas exploitation on water resources. Dylan is currently completing his MSc in
Geology, is involved in mentoring and training junior staff and interns at Umvoto Africa, and has also trained
government officials in basic hydrogeology. He received the young male runner-up and special mention for
Excellence in Water Research Award for Young Researcher from the Water Institute for Southern Africa in
2010. Dylan is a member of the Geological Society of South Africa and Water Institute for Southern Africa,
and is a registered professional natural scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific
Professionals.

EXPERIENCE

Hydrogeology

2016 Private Client: Rusthof LSEN School Groundwater Assessment


Hydrogeological assessment, borehole siting and project management.
2016 Private Client: Hermanus Golf Club Groundwater Development
Sub-contractor (drilling and testing) management and supervision.
2016 Private Client: Tokai Estate Groundwater Development
Hydrogeological assessment, borehole siting and project management.
2015 present City of Cape Town Landfill Site Monitoring Borehole Infrastructure Assessment
Project manager for the assessment and upgrade of groundwater monitoring borehole
infrastructure at landfill sites within the City of Cape Town municipal area.
2015 present Private Client: Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence
Project management and completion of a complex water use licence application for a
2
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
farm in the Stanford area.
2015 present Private Client: Quaggaskloof Hydrogeological and Geothermal Assessment
Project management and hydrogeological assessment: Desktop and fieldwork for a
hydrogeological assessment of a proposed eco-estate at Quaggaskloof, next to
Brandvlei Dam (Western Cape).
2015 Private Client: Verlorenvalley Borehole Siting
Project management and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on
Verlorenvalley Farm near Touws River (Western Cape), to determine groundwater
potential including determination and siting of boreholes, and provision of licencing
recommendations.
2015 Private Client: Jan Fouries Kraal Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting
Project management and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on Jan
Fouries Kraal Farm in Calitzdorp (Western Cape), to determine groundwater potential
including determination and siting of boreholes, and provision of licencing
recommendations.
2014 present AMDA Developments: Solar Facility Groundwater Assessments
Hydrogeological investigations and hydrocensuses for proposed solar facilities in
Beaufort West (Western Cape), Reivilo (North West), Vryburg (North West) and
Kenhardt (Northern Cape).
2014 present Circum Minerals Potash Ltd: Danakil Potash Project Hydrogeology Study
Hydrogeological investigation and project management for groundwater supply to
proposed potash mining in the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia.
2014 present Private Client: Philippi Horticultural Area Silica Sand Prospecting Hydrogeological
Specialist Studies
Groundwater specialist studies for an environmental management plan for silica sand
prospecting in the Philippi Horticultural Area.
2014 WorleyParsons RSA: ASIDI Schools Groundwater Assessments
Hydrogeological investigations and hydrocensuses for primary schools at Bonnievale,
Swellendam and Philippi (Cape Town)
2014 Water Research Commission: Trace Metal Contamination of South African Aquifers
WRC funded study on the potential of trace metal contamination of aquifers from
phosphate fertilizers, specifically focusing on cadmium contamination.
2013 2014 Private Client: Propet SA Borehole
Siting, drilling and pumping test supervision of a borehole at Propet SA in Table View,
Cape Town.
2013 2014 Private Client: Takkap Farm Groundwater Assessment
Project management and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on Takkap
Farm in McGregor (Western Cape), to determine groundwater potential including
determination and siting of boreholes, and provision of licencing recommendations.
2013 Aurecon/Department of Public Works: Groote Schuur Estate Upgrade Hydrogeological
Assessment
Project management and reporting: A hydrocensus and hydrogeological study of
Groote Schuur Estate in Cape Town.
2007 present Oudtshoorn Municipality: Deep Artesian Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn
Supply (DAGEOS)
Geological, structural and hydrogeological mapping of Table Mountain Group aquifer
systems. Undertaking of reserve determination and licence application. Aquifer
surface and storage modelling, using GIS software, focusing on stratigraphic analysis,
structural modelling and fractured rock reservoir estimates. Logging of TMG core from
Paardepoort borehole (460 m) and new exploratory Blossoms boreholes (1000 m+).
Contract and on-site management of exploratory borehole drilling at Blossoms.
2007 present City of Cape Town: Table Mountain Group Aquifer Feasibility Study and Pilot Project
Geological, structural and hydrogeological mapping of Table Mountain Group aquifer
systems. Aquifer surface and storage modelling, using GIS software, focusing on
stratigraphic analysis, structural modelling and fractured rock reservoir estimates.
Undertook preparation of Excel-based balanced cross-sections to update the
Peninsula and Skurweberg Formation aquifer yield estimates. Logging of TMG core
from Wemmershoek (1050 m), Steenbras (750 m) and Nuweberg (1600 m).
Assistance with development of ecological monitoring protocol, and on-site
management of exploratory core borehole drilling.
2007 present Overstrand Municipality: Water Source Development and Management Plan for the
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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
Greater Hermanus Area
Geological, structural and hydrogeological mapping of Table Mountain Group aquifer
systems. Responsible for storage modelling and collection of routine geological,
hydrological and hydrochemical monitoring data and processing. Geophyiscal analysis.
Contract and on-site management of deep production borehole drilling and
rehabilitation.
2007 present Overstrand Municipality: Stanford Aquifer Development
Geological and hydrogeological mapping of Bredasdorp Group aquifer systems.
Responsible for collection of routine geological, hydrogeological and hydrochemical
monitoring data and processing. Geophysical analysis. Contract and on-site
management of production borehole drilling.
2012 present Department of Water Affairs: Determination of Resource Quality Objectives in the
Olifants-Doorn Water Management Area
Geological and hydrogeological desktop investigation for prioritisation of areas for
RQO development within the Olifants-Doorn WMA.
2013 City of Cape Town/Arcus Gibb: Sir Lowrys Pass River Stormwater Infiltration Potential
and Contamination Risk Assessment
Managed and undertook a stormwater infiltration potential and contamination risk
assessment for the Sir Lowrys Pass River catchment, which assisted in the
development of a detailed stormwater asset management plan.
2011 2012 City of Cape Town/Arcus Gibb: City of Cape Town Eastern Catchments Stormwater
Infiltration Potential and Contamination Risk Assessment
Managed and undertook a stormwater infiltration potential and contamination risk
assessment for the eastern catchments (Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Durbanville,
Kuils River, Somerset West and Gordons Bay areas), which assisted in the
development of a high-level stormwater asset management plan.
2012 Private Client: Lakewood Village Borehole Siting
Siting, drilling and pumping test supervision of a borehole at Lakewood Village in
Hermanus. Provision of licencing recommendations.
2011 - 2012 Private Clients: Thaba Tholo Groundwater Assessment / Bonniebrook Farm
Groundwater Assessments / Knuy Farm Weir Siting
Project management and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on Thaba
Tholo farm in Limpopo and Bonniebrook Farm in Stanford, to determine groundwater
potential including determination and siting of boreholes, and provision of licencing
recommendations. Analysis of surface-groundwater interactions at Knuy Farm in
Ladismith, and siting of a new river weir.
2011 City of Cape Town: Installation of Groundwater Monitoring Boreholes at Solid Waste
Disposal Sites
Hydrogeological mapping, siting and design of monitoring boreholes for the Athlone
Refuse Transfer Station and Kraaifontein Waste Management Facility
2008 2011 Department of Water Affairs: Development of Reconciliation Strategies for Selected
Towns in the Southern Sub-Regions
Assessment of current groundwater resources and determination of possible
groundwater augmentation options.
2010 - 2011 Private Client: Steenboksvlakte Groundwater Assessment
Project management and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on a
Steenboksvlakte farm to determine groundwater potential including determination and
siting of boreholes.
2007 2010 Department of Water Affairs and Forestry: The Assessment of Water Availability in the
Berg Catchment Area by means of Water Resource Related Models
Aquifer surface and storage modelling, using GIS software, focusing on stratigraphic
analysis, structural modelling and fractured rock reservoir estimates. Undertook
preparation of Excel-based balanced cross-sections to update the Peninsula and
Skurweberg Formation aquifer yield estimates.
2010 BKS Consulting Engineers: Assessment of Possible Groundwater Seepage on Trunk
Road 22 (Gouda to Wolseley)
Desktop study and site investigation into possible seepage on trunk road near
Wolseley.
2010 Mandalay Farms, Woodville, Southern Cape: Groundwater resource assessment
Groundwater resource assessment for a private farm near George.
2010 Du Toit Group: Groundwater Assessment for Skaapkraal Farms
4
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
Desktop groundwater assessment using NGDB and WARMS databases and
completion of hydrocensus for licencing at a farm near Malmesbury.
2010 Property Pro Development: Groundwater Assessment for Morgenson, Klipkraal,
Kransfontein and Res Van Plase Farms
Desktop review of farm groundwater resources in the Eastern Cape and Free State.
2009 Gwaing Nature Estates: Desktop Study into Groundwater Potential for Leeuwenfontein
Farm.
Undertook major part of desktop groundwater study and report writing for a farm near
Wellington.
2008 2009 Overstrand Municipality: Waste Site Closure Monitoring Boreholes
Rotary percussion and rotary mud drilling supervision for three 20-30 m boreholes
within Quaternary sediment at Gansbaai landfill site.
2008 Theewaterskloof Municipality: Voorstekraal and Villiersdorp Boreholes
Geological, structural and hydrogeological mapping of Table Mountain Group aquifer
systems. Hydrocensus, geophysics and borehole siting for Villiersdorp and
Voorstekraal.
2008 PD Naidoo & Associates/DWAF: Magalies Water to Waterberg Feasibility Study
Groundwater resource assessment for the Bela-Bela, Modimolle and Mookgophong
Local Municipalities in the Waterberg District Municipality, Limpopo Province.
2007 2008 Hondekloof Nickel: Groundwater Exploration and Development for Mining Operations
in Namaqualand
Groundwater hydrocensus and structural and geological interpretation for preliminary
borehole siting in southern Namaqualand. Rotary percussion drilling supervision and
rock chip logging for two 150 m boreholes in gneissic terrane in Kliprand.

Geology
2016 Private Clients: South Peninsula Geological Assessments
Geological and coastal hazard assessments for coastal properties in the South
Peninsula, Cape Town
2013 Oshkosh Energy & Minerals: Proposed Sand Mining of Portion 6 Elandsfontyn Farm
349
Geology and hydrogeology specialist for mine works programme, environmental
scoping and EIA for sand mining along the west coast of the Western Cape.
2012 CSIR/Tullow Ethiopia: South Omo Block ESIA
Geology and hydrogeology specialist study as part of a larger environmental and social
impact assessment for onshore exploration drilling in southern Ethiopia.
2010 Private Client: Opinion on Advasols Southern Cape Gas Exploration Rights
Desktop geological and hydrogeological study and opinion on Advasols Environmental
Management Plan for proposed gas exploration in the southern Cape.
2010 Private Client: Oudekraal Baseline Assessment
Geology, hydrogeology and coastal processes specialist study as part of a baseline
assessment for proposed development at Oudekraal, Cape Town.
2008 Sasol Gas: MSP Seismic Investigation
Desktop and remote sensing geological and structural assessment for the
Mozambique to South Africa gas pipeline.
2007 Private Client: Diamond Exploration in NE Angola
Desktop and remote sensing geological assessment for diamond exploration within the
Camatu Concession, Lunda Norte Province (northeast Angola).
2007 Private Client: Vredenburg Sands Resource Estimation
Desktop resource assessment for sand mining in the Vredenburg area.

Disaster Risk Reduction


2010 2014 Water Research Commission: Investigating the Social Vulnerability of People and their
Livelihoods and their Response to Water Infrastructure
Development of a risk-based methodology to assess social vulnerability in the context
of water infrastructure and hydrometeorological hazards, focusing on the village of
Tsengiwe in the Eastern Cape as a case study.

5
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
2012 Rand Water EMS: Research Project to Investigate Acid Water Plumes, Decants and
Intersects with Rand Waters Potable Water Pipelines, and Environmental Mitigation
Thereof
Desktop geological and hydrogeological input into, and development of a risk
assessment tool to analyse the risk of Rand Waters pipelines to AMD.
2010 2012 Department of Environmental Affairs & Development Planning Western Cape: Sea
Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment
Literature review, data collection, development of modelling and risk assessment
methodology for study into the effect of sea level rise in vulnerable areas on the
Western Cape coastline (West Coast, Overberg and Eden District Municipalities), and
assessment of flood risk.
2009 Aurecon/City of Cape Town: Disaster Risk Assessment
Undertook investigations and reporting for hazards relating to hydrogeological, coastal
zone and geological processes for the City of Cape Town.
2008 World Bank: Situation Analysis of Disaster Risk Reduction Policies and Practices
Assisted in the review of DRR policies and programmes in Malawi.
2007 UN/ISDR and Commonwealth Secretariat: Publication
Assisted with editing of a booklet entitled Sustainable Disaster Risk Reduction in
Africa: Mainstreaming Gender Concerns in the Hyogo Framework for Action and a
book chapter titled Integrating sustainable development into national frameworks:
Policy approaches for key sectors in small states.

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Attended
2014 Application of Remote Sensing in Geological Mapping and Mineral Exploration
(University of Witwatersrand School of Geosciences)
Dr Roy Miller Symposium Damara Belt Excursion (GSN)
Unconventional Gas: Just the Facts Symposium (GSSA-Groundwater Division/WISA-
Mine Water Division/WRC)
2013 WRC Wat-Indaba: Unconventional Gas Drilling (WRC)
2012 1st SA-GEO Symposium (NEOSS/DST); Shale Gas Southern Africa (Vital Training)
2011 SUN Department of Civil Engineering, Stellenbosch: Setbacks 2: Development of
Coastal Setback Lines
2010 SUN Department of Civil Engineering, Stellenbosch: Setback Lines for Coastal
Developments
2010 University of Cape Town, Cape Town: 1st Shale Gas Workshop and GASH-SA Launch
(presented by Africa Earth Observatory Network)
2009 Institute for Water Studies University of the Western Cape, Cape Town: International
Geophysics Short Course (presented by UNESCO Chair in Hydrogeology)
2009 Institute for Water Studies University of the Western Cape, Cape Town: International
Short Course on Fractured Rock Aquifer Assessment (presented by UNESCO Chair in
Hydrogeology)
2008 SA Institute for Engineering and Environmental Geologists, Cape Town: Geotechnical
Soil Profiling and Core Logging Course
2008 Geological Society of South Africa, Cape Town: Drilling Methods and Techniques in
Exploration and Mining Course
2007 Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF), Cape Town: Groundwater
Resources Directed Measures Training Course

CONFERENCES AND SEMINARS


Presentations

1. Blake, D. (2015). Cadmium contamination of groundwater in South Africa The potential hazard of
phosphate fertilizers. 14th South African Groundwater Division Conference, Muldersdrift, South Africa,
2015.
2. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., McGibbon, D. C., Hartnady, M. I. H. and Molzen, G. A. (2015).
Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project: Exploratory drilling results from the Blossoms Wellfield. Poster

6
UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
exhibited at the 14th South African Groundwater Division Conference, Muldersdrift, South Africa,
2015.
3. McGibbon, D. C., Hartnady, C. J. H., Riemann, K. and Blake, D. (2015). Flow test analysis and
monitoring of the deep confined Peninsula Aquifer in Blossoms (Oudtshoorn), Western Cape, South
Africa. 14th South African Groundwater Division Conference, Muldersdrift, South Africa, 2015.
4. Blake, D. (2015). Natural coastal hazards along the South African coastline: Lecture 1 Sea level
change and associated coastal threats. University of Cape Town Summer School, January 2015.
5. Blake, D. (2015). Natural coastal hazards along the South African coastline: Lecture 2 Tsunami risk
in South Africa. University of Cape Town Summer School, January 2015.
6. Blake, D. (2014). Groundwater potential of the Swartland region. Malmesbury Agricultural Society
Dairy Study Group Annual General Meeting, Malmesbury, South Africa, June 2014.
7. Riemann, K., Blake, D. and Lee, P. (2014). Groundwater Development and Management. Module 6
to 8 of the Training on Integrated Water Resource Management: Continuation of the All Towns
Reconciliation Strategy Study, 26 to 29 May 2014.
8. Hay, E. R., Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2013). A future Oudtshoorn groundwater heritage trail.
Geoheritage Conference, Oudtshoorn, South Africa, 2013.
9. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. Groundwater exploration at Nuweberg
near Grabouw, for the City of Cape Town Table Mountain Group Aquifer Project. 3rd Regional
Conference of the Southern African Young Water Professionals, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2013.
10. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2013). Shale gas exploration in South Africa and possible future
groundwater quality and quantity issues. Shale Gas Southern Africa, Cape Town, South Africa, 2013.
11. Hartnady, C. J. H. and Blake, D. (2012). Karoo shale gas development: Environmental impacts and
geophysical risks. Geological Society of South Africa Energy Options Conference, Johannesburg,
South Africa, 2012.
12. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., Isaacs, G. and Chimboza, N. (2012). Rapid qualitative sea level rise
risk assessment for coastal district municipalities of the Western Cape, South Africa. 1st SA-GEO
Symposium, Cape Town, South Africa, 2012.
13. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2011a). Shale gas exploration in South Africa and possible future
groundwater quality and quantity issues. Geosynthesis, Cape Town, South Africa, 2011.
14. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2011b). Shale gas exploration in South Africa and possible future
groundwater quality and quantity issues. 12th South African Groundwater Division Conference,
Pretoria, South Africa, 2011.
15. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. (2011a). Exploratory drilling results from the Table
Mountain Group aquifers, southwestern Cape, South Africa. 23rd Colloquium of African Geology,
Johannesburg, South Africa, 2011.
16. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. (2011b). Exploratory drilling results from the Table
Mountain Group aquifers, southwestern Cape, South Africa. Geosynthesis, Cape Town, South Africa,
2011.
17. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. (2011c). Exploratory drilling results from the Table
Mountain Group aquifers, southwestern Cape, South Africa. 12th South African Groundwater Division
Conference, Pretoria, South Africa, 2011.
18. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., Chimboza, N. C., Laidler, D. and Isaacs, G. (2011). Coastal hazard risk
assessment for parts of the Western Cape, South Africa. 23rd Colloquium of African Geology,
Johannesburg, South Africa, 2011.
19. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Chimboza, N. C. (2010). Rapid coastal hazard risk assessment for
the coastline administered by the City of Cape Town. Urban risk reduction: building resilient cities,
addressing urban disaster risk Disaster Management Conference for Africa 2010, Jeffreys Bay,
South Africa, 2010.
20. Blake, D., Laidler, D. and Isaacs, G. (2010). Sea level rise risk assessment for the Eden District
Municipality coastline. Urban risk reduction: building resilient cities, addressing urban disaster risk
Disaster Management Conference for Africa 2010, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, 2010.
21. Blake, D., Mlisa, A. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2010). Large scale quantification of aquifer storage and
volumes from the Peninsula and Skurweberg Formations in the southwestern Cape. 1st Regional
Conference of the Southern African Young Water Professionals. Pretoria, South Africa, 2010.
22. Blake, D., Mlisa, A. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2009). Large scale quantification of aquifer storage and
volumes from the Peninsula and Skurweberg Formations in the southwestern Cape. 11th South
African Groundwater Division Conference. Cape Town, South Africa, 2009.
23. Blake, D. and Riemann, K. (2009). The importance of geological understanding in local groundwater
development: Case studies from the Overberg region, Western Cape. 11th South African
Groundwater Division Conference. Cape Town, South Africa, 2009.

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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
24. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., Chimboza, N. C. and Kuhudzai, A. T. (2009). Coastal hazard risk
assessment for the coastline administered by the City of Cape Town. AfricaGIS 2009 International
Conference. Kampala, Uganda, 2009.
25. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., Mlisa, A. and Thompson, I. (2009). Large scale quantification of aquifer
storage and volumes: Case studies from the Berg WAAS. Poster exhibited at the International
Conference on Implementing Environmental Water Allocations. Port Elizabeth, South Africa, 2009.
26. Umvoto Africa, DiMP (University of Cape Town) and Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
(2007). Women and Environmental Health in Informal Settlements. Poster exhibited at the UN/ISDR
Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction conference. Zurich, Switzerland, 2007.
27. Umvoto Africa, DiMP (University of Cape Town) and Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
(2007). Women Plan(t) the Future. Poster exhibited at the UN/ISDR Global Platform for Disaster Risk
Reduction conference. Zurich, Switzerland, 2007.

PUBLICATIONS
Journal Articles and Books

1. Blake, D. (2014). Non-point Source Trace Metal Contamination of South African Aquifers - Role of
Fertilizers in Trace Metal (Specifically Cadmium) Contamination of Groundwater. WRC Project
K8/1031/1, 53pp.
2. Hay, E. R., Hay, P., DOr, G, Lee, P., Blake, D. and Conradie, S. (2014). Capacity Building for
Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction in Rural Communities: Tsengiwe, Eastern
Cape. Water Research Commission Report No. 2126/1/14.
3. Hay, E. R., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Blake, D. (2011). Disaster risk reduction and adaptation to climate
change. In: Strachan, J. and Vigilance, C. (Eds.), Integrating sustainable development into national
frameworks. Policy approaches for key sectors in small states. Commonwealth Secretariat, London,
United Kingdom, 17-36.
4. Hay, E. R., Hay, P., Mlisa, A., Blake, D., Imrie, S. and Goldberg, K. (2011). Investigating the social
vulnerability of people and their livelihoods and their response to water infrastructure: A risk-based
methodology to assess social vulnerability in the context of water infrastructure. Water Research
Commission Report No. 1888/1/11.
5. Blake, D., Mlisa, A. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2010). Large scale quantification of aquifer storage and
volumes from the Peninsula and Skurweberg Formations in the southwestern Cape. Water SA, 36
(2), 177-184.
6. Colvin, C., Riemann, K., Brown, C., Le Maitre, D., Mlisa, A., Blake, D., Aston, T., Maherry, A.,
Engelbrecht, J., Pemberton, C, Magoba, R., Soltau, L. and Prinsloo, E. (2009). Ecological and
environmental impacts of large-scale groundwater development in the Table Mountain Group (TMG)
aquifer system. Water Research Commission Report No. 1327/1/08.
7. Riemann, K., and Blake, D. (2009). Groundwater Reserve Determination for current and potential
Wellfield Development of TMG Aquifers. The Undertaking of the Rapid Reserve Determination for
the Oudtshoorn Municipality (WRC Project K8/871/1). Water Research Commission Report No. KV
236/10.

Consulting Reports

1. Blake, D. (2016). Kommetjie Erf 4170 Desktop Geological and Coastal Hazard Assessment.
Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Mr Bruce Campbell Smith. Report No. 864/02/01/2016 (May
2016), 12pp.
2. Jack, S. O, Blake, D., Wise, E. A, Fusa, M. M. and Towers, L. C. (2016). Annual Monitoring Report
October 2014 to September 2015. Gateway, Camphill and Volmoed Wellfields. Water Source
Development and Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Prepared for the Overstrand
Local Municipality (May 2015), 71pp.
3. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2016). Heldervue Estate Water Resource Development T1/T2
Drilling and Hydrochemistry. Prepared for Mr Charles Edmonds of UNIVEG South Africa (April 2016),
7pp.
4. Jack, S. O, Blake, D. and Fusa, M. M. (2016). Annual Monitoring Report October 2014 to September
2015. Kouevlakte Wellfield. Water Source Development and Management Plan for the Stanford
Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (April 2016), 43pp.
5. Blake, D. (2016). Scarborough Erf 158 Basic Geological Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa
(Pty) Ltd for Mr Chris Mace of Village Homes. Report No. 864/01/01/2016 (March 2016), 3pp.

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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
6. Blake, D. and McGibbon, D. C. (2016). Rusthof LSEN School Groundwater Assessment and
Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Hatch Goba (Pty) Ltd. Report No.
859/03/01/2016 (February 2016), 16pp.
7. Blake, D. and McGibbon, D. C. (2016). Faircape Tokai Groundwater Development. Phase 1
Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Faircape
Group Holdings (Pty) Ltd). Report No. 857/01/01/2016 (February 2016), 26pp.
8. Blake, D., Hay, E. R., Riemann, K., Molzen, G. A., McGibbon, D. C., Towers, L., Adler, A., Nolakana,
L. and Lee, P. (2015). Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence Application Water Use Licence
Application. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Middelberg H2O (Pty) Ltd. Report No.
828/01/01/2015 (December 2015), 56pp.
9. Molzen, G. A., Blake, D. and Lee, P. (2015). Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence Application
Middelberg Groundwater Monitoring Protocol. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Middelberg
H2O (Pty) Ltd. Report No. 828/03/01/2015 (December 2015), 14pp.
10. Towers, L., Lee, P. and Blake, D. (2015). Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence Application
Sanitation Infrastructure Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Middelberg H2O (Pty)
Ltd. Report No. 828/02/02/2015 (December 2015), 12pp.
11. Blake, D., Adler, A. and Towers, L. (2015). Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence Application
Groundwater Hydrocensus. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Middelberg H2O (Pty) Ltd.
Report No. 828/02/01/2015 (December 2015), 15pp.
12. Riemann, K. and Blake, D. (2015). Motivation for Stanford Aquifer Model. Water Source
Development and Management Plan for the Stanford Area. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for
the Stanford Aquifer Monitoring Committee (November 2015), 11 pp.
13. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2015). Verlorenvalley 344 Water Resource Development
Groundwater Management and Borehole Siting. Prepared for Mr Charles Edmonds of UNIVEG South
Africa (October 2015), 12pp.
14. Blake, D. (2015). Orchards End Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Mr Russel
Hanly of Orchards End (August 2015), 5pp.
15. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Interim Monitoring Report October 2014 to March 2015.
Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Local
Municipality (August 2015), 8pp.
16. McGibbon, D. C., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Blake, D. (2015). Monitoring Report 2011-2014 Update.
Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Local
Municipality (August 2015), 64pp.
17. Shoko, V., Lee, P. and Blake, D. (2015). Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Slope Soaring
in the Table Mountain National Park and Fernkloof Nature Reserve (Western Cape). Prepared by
Umvoto Africa Pty (Ltd) on behalf of Two Oceans Slope Soarers (August 2015), 17pp.
18. Jack, S. O, Blake, D. and Fusa, M. M. (2015). Interim Monitoring Report October 2014 to March
2015. Gateway, Camphill and Volmoed Wellfields. Water Source Development and Management
Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (July 2015),
20pp.
19. Jack, S. O, Blake, D. and Fusa, M. M. (2015). Interim Monitoring Report October 2014 to March
2015. Kouevlakte Wellfield. Water Source Development and Management Plan for the Stanford
Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (July 2015), 13pp.
20. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D., Hartnady, M. I. H., Botha, F. S., Hay, E. R., Nolokana, L., McGibbon, D.
C., Riemann, K. and Kuhudzai, A. (2015). Danakil Potash Project Groundwater Modelling and
Water Resource Analysis. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Circum Minerals Ltd (July 2015),
114pp.
21. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Outeniqua Mountains Geological Update. Oudtshoorn
Groundwater Project Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Local Municipality (July
2015), 8pp.
22. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Jan Fouries Kraal Farm Groundwater Assessment and
Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Mr Gerrie Mathee (Uhuru Guest
Farm) (July 2015), 21pp.
23. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Brakfontein Solar Facility Hydrogeological Assessment:
Phase 2 Pumping Test and Hydrochemical Analysis. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf
of AE-AMD Renewable Energy (Pty) Ltd (June 2015), 17pp.
24. Blake, D., Jack, S. O, Shoko, V. and Fusa, M. M. (2015). Annual Monitoring Report October 2013 to
September 2014. Gateway, Camphill and Volmoed Wellfields. Water Source Development and
Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality
(March 2015), 66pp.

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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
25. Blake, D. and Jack, S. O (2014). Interim Monitoring Report April 2014 to October 2014. Kouevlakte
Wellfield. Water Source Development and Management Plan for the Stanford Area. Prepared for the
Overstrand Local Municipality (December 2014), 20pp.
26. Blake, D. and Jack, S. O (2014). Annual Monitoring Report April 2013 to March 2014. Kouevlakte
Wellfield. Water Source Development and Management Plan for the Stanford Area. Prepared for the
Overstrand Local Municipality (December 2014), 37pp.
27. Riemann, K. and Blake, D. (2014). Stanford Aquifer Monitoring Protocol Version 2.0. Water Source
Development and Management Plan for the Stanford Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local
Municipality and Stanford Aquifer Monitoring Committee (December 2014), 21pp.
28. Molzen, G. A. and Blake, D. (2014). Drorivier Solar Facility Hydrogeological Assessment: Phase 1
Desktop Groundwater Resource Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of AE-
AMD Renewable Energy (Pty) Ltd (November 2014), 19pp.
29. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2014). Brakfontein Solar Facility Hydrogeological Assessment:
Phase 1 Desktop Groundwater Resource Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on
behalf of AE-AMD Renewable Energy (Pty) Ltd (November 2014), 14pp.
30. Lee, P, McGibbon, D. C., Mazibuko, S, Hay, E. R and Blake, D. (2014). Klip River Monitoring for Alien
Vegetation Control. Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project WCR17. Prepared by Umvoto Africa Pty (Ltd)
on behalf of Oudtshoorn Local Municipality (October 2014), 15pp.
31. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D. and Hay, E. R. (2014). Danakil Potash Project Phase 2 Hydrogeology
Study. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Remote Exploration Services for Circum
Minerals Potash Ltd (October 2014), 27pp.
32. Blake, D. (2014). CFB Sands (Pty) Ltd Philippi Southwest Silica Sand Prospecting Hydrogeological
Specialist Study. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Klipberg Consulting (Pty) Ltd for
DHS Silica Sands (Pty) Ltd (September 2014), 40pp.
33. Blake, D. (2014). DHS Silica Sands (Pty) Ltd Philippi Schaap Kraal Silica Sand Prospecting
Hydrogeological Specialist Study. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Klipberg
Consulting (Pty) Ltd for DHS Silica Sands (Pty) Ltd (September 2014), 40pp.
34. Blake, D. (2014). Western Cape Silica Sands (Pty) Ltd Philippi North Silica Sand Prospecting
Hydrogeological Specialist Study. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Klipberg
Consulting (Pty) Ltd for Western Cape Silica Sands (Pty) Ltd (September 2014), 38pp.
35. Blake, D. and Wise, E. A. (2014). Swellendam Primary School Hydrogeological Study Groundwater
Feasibility and Hydrocensus. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of WorleyParsons RSA
(Pty) Ltd for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works (August 2014), 24pp.
36. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D. and Riemann, K. (2014). Umvoto Response to AGES Fractured
Aquifer Hydraulics and Hydrogeology of the Confined Oudtshoorn Basin. Contribution to the
Groundwater Reserve Study in the Gouritz WMA (August 2014).
37. Baker, K. V., Jack, S. O and Blake, D. (2014). Interim Monitoring Report October 2013 to March
2014. Volume 1: Gateway Wellfield. Water Source Development and Management Plan for the
Greater Hermanus Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (July 2014), 10pp.
38. Baker, K. V., Jack, S. O and Blake, D. (2014). Interim Monitoring Report October 2013 to March
2014. Volume 2: Camphill and Volmoed Wellfields. Water Source Development and Management
Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (July 2014),
10pp.
39. Blake, D., Baker, K. V. and Wise, E. A. (2014). Khanya Primary School Hydrogeological Study
Groundwater Feasibility and Hydrocensus. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of
WorleyParsons RSA (Pty) Ltd for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works
(May 2014), 18pp.
40. Jack, S. O., Blake, D. and Burgers, K. (2014). Bonnievale Primary School Hydrogeological Study
Groundwater Feasibility and Hydrocensus. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of
WorleyParsons RSA (Pty) Ltd for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works
(March 2014), 13pp.
41. Hay, E. R., Baker, K. V., Blake, D., Dor, G. and Riemann, K. (2014). Support to the Continuation of
the Water Reconciliation Strategy for the Western Cape Water Supply System Cape Flats Aquifer:
Situation Assessment & Potential for Successful Urban Groundwater Development and
Management. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) for the Department of Water Affairs, South Africa,
47pp.
42. Blake, D. (2014). Takkap Farm Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting. Prepared for
Koningskap BK (January 2014), 16pp.
43. Hartnady, C. J. H., Baker, K. V., Halenyane, K. and Blake, D. (2014). Zwaanswyk Farms
Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting. Prepared for Mr. Neil Paterson (January 2014), 24pp.

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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
44. Blake, D. and Baker, K. V. (2013). Propet SA Borehole Drilling and Pumping Report. Prepared for
Propet SA (Pty) Ltd (November 2013), 14pp.
45. Blake, D. (2013). Groote Schuur Estate Upgrade Hydrogeological Investigation. Prepared by
Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Department of Public
Works (October 2013), 27pp.
46. Blake, D. (2013). Upgrading of the Sir Lowrys Pass River Hydrogeological/Geotechnical
Investigation. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Gibb (Pty) Ltd, for the City of Cape
Town; Directorate: Roads and Stormwater; Branch: Catchment, Stormwater and River Management
(July 2013).
47. Blake, D. and von Scherenberg, L. (2012). Lakewood Village Borehole Drilling and Pumping Test
Report. Prepared for the Lakewood Village Trust (December 2012), 17pp.
48. Hartnady, C. J. H., Mlisa, A., Turton, A., Blake, D., Goyns, A., Simpson, G., von Scherenberg, L.,
Kuhudzai, A., Burgers, K. and Seyler, H. G. P. (2012). Research project to investigate acid water
plumes, decants and intersects with Rand Waters potable water pipelines, and environmental
mitigation thereof: Phase I. Prepared for Rand Water: Environmental Management Services
(November 2012), 136pp.
49. Burgers, K. M., Seyler, H. G. P and Blake, D. (2012). Water Source Development and Management
Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Results of Monitoring Programme April 2011 to September
2011. Volume 2: Hemel en Aarde Valley. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (September
2012), 39pp.
50. Blake, D. (2012). Thaba Tholo Game Farm Borehole Siting and Field Report. Prepared for the Thaba
Tholo Trust (September 2012), 31pp.
51. Blake, D. (2012). Water Supply at Bonniebrook Farm Groundwater Assessment and Borehole
Siting Report. Prepared for Mr. Jon Kark (August 2012), 14pp.
52. Blake, D. (2012). Knuy Farm (Ladismith) Hydrogeological Investigation Weir Siting Report.
Prepared for Dr. Neels de Villiers (August 2012), 12pp.
53. Blake, D. (2012). Lakewood Village Borehole Siting Report. Prepared for the Lakewood Village Trust
(July 2012), 10pp.
54. Blake, D., Riemann, K., Seyler, H. G. P. and Chimboza, N. (2012). Stormwater Asset Management
Plan (Phase 2B): High Level Master Planning for the Eastern Catchments Aquifer Infiltration
Potential and Contamination Risk Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of
Arcus Gibb (Pty) Ltd, for the City of Cape Town; Directorate: Roads and Stormwater; Branch:
Catchment, Stormwater and River Management (July 2012).
55. Seyler, H. G. P and Blake, D. (2012). Water Source Development and Management Plan for the
Greater Hermanus Area. Results of Monitoring Programme April 2011 to September 2011. Volume
1: Gateway Wellfield. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (May 2012), 57pp.
56. Galley, E. and Blake, D. (2012). Water Source Development and Management Plan for the Greater
Hermanus Area. Gateway Wellfield Borehole GWP02 Rehabilitation and Testing. Prepared for the
Overstrand Local Municipality (May 2012), 34pp.
57. Riemann, K., Joubert, A. and Blake, D. (2012). Determination of Resource Quality Objectives in the
Olifants Doorn Water Management Area Prioritisation Report. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd
in association with Southern Water Ecological Research and Consulting cc on behalf of the
Department of Water Affairs Directorate: RDM Compliance. 32pp.
58. Blake, D. (2012). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase B: Overberg District Municipality. Phase 3 Report: Sea Level Rise
and Flood Hazard Risk Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial
Government of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning:
Strategic Environmental Management (March 2012), 27pp.
59. Blake, D. and Chimboza, N. (2012). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster
Prone Area Along the Western Cape Coast. Phase B: Overberg District Municipality. Phase 2 Report:
Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Modelling. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial
Government of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning:
Strategic Environmental Management (March 2012), 26pp.
60. Blake, D. (2012). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase B: Overberg District Municipality. Phase 1 Report: Sea Level Rise
and Flood Risk Literature Review. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial Government
of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning: Strategic
Environmental Management (March 2012), 36pp.
61. Hartnady, C. J. H., von Scherenberg, L., Blake, D., Chimboza, N. and Kuhudzai, A. (2012). Geology,
hydrology and hydrogeology specialist study. Undertaken as part of the larger Environmental & Social

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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
Impact Assessment (ESIA) for Onshore Exploration Drilling in the South Omo Block, Ethiopia, for
Tullow Ethiopia B. V. (March 2012), 53 pp.
62. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. (2012). Exploratory Phase: Engineering and Drilling.
Prepared by the TMG Aquifer Alliance as part of the Exploratory Phase of the Table Mountain Group
Aquifer Feasibility Study and Pilot Project.
63. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Riemann, K. (2012). Exploratory Phase: Hydrogeological
Reconnaissance. Prepared by the TMG Aquifer Alliance as part of the Exploratory Phase of the
Table Mountain Group Aquifer Feasibility Study and Pilot Project.
64. Riemann, K., Imrie, S., Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Hay, E. R. (2012). Exploratory Phase:
Wellfield Operation. Prepared by the TMG Aquifer Alliance as part of the Exploratory Phase of the
Table Mountain Group Aquifer Feasibility Study and Pilot Project.
65. Seyler, H. G. P., Hemsted, T., Galley, E., von Scherenberg, L. and Blake, D. (2011). Water Source
Development and Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Gateway Wellfield
Infrastructure Upgrade Technical Report. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (December
2011), 57pp.
66. Blake, D., von Scherenberg, L. and Seyler, H. G. P. (2011). Water Source Development and
Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Borehole GWP12 Drilling and Pumping Test
Report. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (December 2011), 30pp.
67. Blake, D. (2011). C1c2 Deepening Report. Prepared for Oudtshoorn Local Municipality as part of
Phase E of the Deep Artesian Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn Municipal Supply (DAGEOS)
project (December 2011).
68. Baleta, M., Blake, D., Seyler, H. G. P. and Hay, E. R. (2011). Installation of groundwater monitoring
boreholes for the City of Cape Town - Solid Waste Disposal: Drilling Report for Athlone Refuse
Transfer Station and Kraaifontein Waste Management Facility. Prepared for the City of Cape Town
Solid Waste Disposal unit (September 2011), 50pp.
69. Baleta, M. A. S., Blake, D. and Seyler, H. G. P. (2011). Water Source Development and Management
Plan for the Stanford Area Overstrand Local Municipality. Drilling Report for 2010-2011: SWS01 and
STM03. Prepared by for the Overstrand Local Municipality (September 2011), 22pp.
70. Imrie, S., Seyler, H. G. P., Blake, D., Riemann, K. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2011). Water Source
Development and Management Plan for the Stanford Area Overstrand Local Municipality. Licence
Application for Kouevlakte Wellfield Geohydrology Summary Report. Prepared for Overstrand
Local Municipality (August 2011), 75pp.
71. Blake, D. (2011). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase A: West Coast District Municipality. Phase 3 Report: Sea Level Rise
and Flood Hazard Risk Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial
Government of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning:
Strategic Environmental Management (July 2011), 26pp.
72. Blake, D. and Chimboza, N. (2011). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster
Prone Area Along the Western Cape Coast. Phase A: West Coast District Municipality. Phase 2
Report: Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Modelling. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the
Provincial Government of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development
Planning: Strategic Environmental Management (July 2011), 30pp.
73. Blake, D. (2011). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase A: West Coast District Municipality. Phase 1 Report: Sea Level Rise
and Flood Risk Literature Review. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial Government
of the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning: Strategic
Environmental Management (July 2011), 33pp.
74. Blake, D. (2011). Steenboksvlakte Phase 2 Field Report. Prepared for Mr. and Mgrs. Cloete
(February 2011), 9pp.
75. Blake, D. (2010). Optimum Coal Basic Groundwater Assessment. Prepared for Mr. Jon Lijens
(December 2010), 2pp.
76. Blake, D. and Baleta, M. A. S. (2010). Steenboksvlakte Groundwater Assessment: Letter Report.
Prepared for Mr. Gert Cloete (November 2010), 14 pp.
77. Blake, D. (2010). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase 3 Report: Eden District Municipality Sea Level Rise and Flood
Hazard Risk Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial Government of the
Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning: Strategic
Environmental Management (May 2010), 22pp.
78. Blake, D. and Chimboza, N. (2010). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster
Prone Area Along the Western Cape Coast. Phase 2 Report: Eden District Municipality Sea Level
Rise and Flood Risk Modelling. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial Government of
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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning: Strategic
Environmental Management (May 2010), 23pp.
79. Blake, D. (2010). Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk Assessment for a Select Disaster Prone Area Along
the Western Cape Coast. Phase 1 Report: Eden District Municipality Sea Level Rise and Flood Risk
Literature Review. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for the Provincial Government of the Western
Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning: Strategic Environmental
Management (May 2010), 30pp.
80. Blake, D. (2010). Reconstruction of Trunk Road 22 Section 1 and Main Road 305 between Gouda
and Wolseley: Investigation of Possible Groundwater Seepage at Kilometre 17 along Trunk Road 22
Section 1. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for BKS (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Western Cape
Provincial Department of Transport and Public Works (May 2010), 11pp.
81. Seyler, H. G. P., Mlisa, A., Chimboza, N. and Blake, D. (2010). Water Source Development and
Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Results of Gateway and Camphill Wellfield
Monitoring Programme April 2009 to September 2009. Prepared for the Overstrand Local
Municipality (March 2010), 55pp.
82. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2010). Opinion on Advasols southern Cape gas exploration rights:
Letter Report. Prepared for Marcec Legal Consulting, 15pp.
83. Blake, D. and Rosenkranz, A. (2010). Oudekraal Baseline Assessment: Geological, Hydrogeological
and Coastal Processes Analysis. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Doug Jeffery
Environmental Consultants (Pty) Ltd (January 2010), 26pp.
84. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Seyler, H. G. P. (2010). Water Source Development and
Management Plan for the Stanford Area Overstrand Local Municipality. Kouevlakte Exploration Siting
and Drilling Report. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (June 2010), 21pp.
85. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D., Baleta, M. A. S. and Seyler, H. G. P. (2010). Blossoms (Target Site C1)
Drilling Report. Prepared for Oudtshoorn Local Municipality as part of Phase E of the Deep Artesian
Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn Municipal Supply (DAGEOS) project, 40pp.
86. Hay, E. R., Riemann, K., Blake, D., Galley, E. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2009). City of Cape Town
Disaster Risk Assessment Summary Report. Prepared for Aurecon for the City of Cape Town
Disaster Risk Assessment, City of Cape Town, 44pp.
87. Galley, E., Riemann, K., Blake, D. and Hay, E. R. (2009). City of Cape Town Disaster Risk
Assessment Aquifer Hazards. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd. for Aurecon for the City of
Cape Town Disaster Risk Assessment, City of Cape Town, 116pp.
88. Hartnady, C. J. H. and Blake, D. (2009). City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Assessment
Geohazards. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd. for Aurecon for the City of Cape Town Disaster
Risk Assessment, City of Cape Town, 64pp.
89. Blake, D. (2009). Skaapkraal Groundwater Investigation and Hydrocensus: Letter Report. Prepared
for Skaapkraal-Dutoit Group (July 2009), 16pp.
90. Blake, D. (2009). Property Pro Development Farms Groundwater Assessment Morgenson and
Queenstown Farms: Letter Report. Prepared for Property Pro Development (June 2009), 15pp.
91. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2009). City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Assessment Coastal
Zone Hazards. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd. for Aurecon for the City of Cape Town Disaster
Risk Assessment, City of Cape Town (June 2009), 34pp.
92. Seyler, H. G. P., Blake, D. and Goldberg, K. (2009). Water Source Development and Management
Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Monitoring results of Gateway Wellfield Monitoring Programme
October 2008 to March 2009. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (May 2009), 41pp.
93. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2009). Leeuwentuin Farm Groundwater Assessment: Summary
Report. Prepared for Kwezi V3 Engineers (April 2009), 21pp.
94. Blake, D. (2009). Mandalay Farms Groundwater Assessment: Letter Report. Prepared for Mr. Peter
Leppan (March 2009), 10pp.
95. Blake, D. (2008). Mount Rhodes Seepage Study: Letter Report. Prepared for the Body Corporate of
Mount Rhodes (December 2008), 6pp.
96. Riemann, K., Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D. and Mlisa, A. (2008). Updated Geology and Water
Balance Model Report. Prepared for Oudtshoorn Local Municipality as part of Phase E of the Deep
Artesian Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn Supply (DAGEOS) project, Report No.
603/E.09/01/08 (December 2008), 59pp.
97. Riemann, K., Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D., Mlisa, A., Chimboza, N. and Hay, E. R. (2008). License
Application for C1 & C2 wellfields Geohydrology Summary Report. Prepared for Oudtshoorn Local
Municipality as part of Phase E of the Deep Artesian Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn
Municipal Supply (DAGEOS) project. Report No. 603/E.10/01/2008 (December 2008), 103pp.
98. Blake, D., Groenewald, L. and Riemann, K. (2008). Villiersdorp New Boreholes: Summary Report.
Prepared for Theewaterskloof Local Municipality (November 2008), 25pp.
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UMVOTO AFRICA Dylan Blake
99. Blake, D., Groenewald, L. and Riemann, K. (2008). Voorstekraal New Boreholes: Summary Report.
Prepared for Theewaterskloof Local Municipality (November 2008), 24pp.
100. Blake, D., Seyler, H. G. P., Groenewald, L. and Riemann, K. (2008). Magalies Water to
Waterberg: Groundwater Resource Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd. in association
with P. D. Naidoo & Associates for the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Limpopo
(September 2008), 44pp.
101. Riemann, K., Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Hay, E. R. (2008). The Assessment of Water
Availability in the Berg Catchment (WMA 19) by Means of Water Resource Related Models:
Groundwater Model Report Volume 8 TMG Aquifer, Witzenberg-Nuy Model. Prepared by Umvoto
Africa (Pty) Ltd. in association with Ninham Shand (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Directorate: National
Water Resource Planning. DWAF Report No. P WMA 19/000/00/0408, 59pp.
102. Riemann, K., Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H. and Hay, E. R. (2008). The Assessment of Water
Availability in the Berg Catchment (WMA 19) by Means of Water Resource Related Models:
Groundwater Model Report Volume 7 TMG Aquifer, Piketberg Model. Prepared by Umvoto Africa
(Pty) Ltd. in association with Ninham Shand (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Directorate: National Water
Resource Planning. DWAF Report No. P WMA 19/000/00/0408, 54pp.
103. Hartnady, C. J. H., Mlisa, A. and Blake, D. (2008). Mozambique to South Africa Gas Pipeline
(MSP) Seismic Investigation: Preliminary Desktop and Field Reconnaissance Study. Prepared for
Sasol Gas (Pty) Ltd. (June 2008), 74 pp.
104. Groenewald, L. and Blake, D. (2008). Verlorenvalley 344 Borehole Siting: Letter Report.
Prepared for Mr. Charles Edmonds (May 2008), 2pp.
105. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D. and Groenewald, L. (2008). Boyes Drive Borehole Siting: Letter
Report. Prepared for Mr. Peter Wright (January 2008), 5pp.
106. Groenewald, L., Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H and Riemann, K. (2008). Hydrogeological
Assessment of the Kliprand Area, Southern Namaqualand, Summary Report. Prepared for
Hondekloof Nickel (Pty) Ltd. (January 2008), 28 pp.
107. Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2007). Vredenburg Sands Preliminary Sand Estimation:
Letter Report. Prepared for Vredenburg Sands, 5pp.
108. Hartnady, C. J. H., Jackson, C., Mlisa, A., Blake, D. and MacLennan, S. A. (2007). Desktop
study in support of Diamond exploration within the Camatu Concession, Lunda Norte Province,
North-East Angola. Prepared for T-Junction Trade and Investment 39 (Pty) Ltd. (August 2007), 35
pp.
109. Hartnady, C. J. H., Seyler, H. G. P. and Blake, D. (2007). Water Source Development and
Management Plan for the Greater Hermanus Area. Interim Report on the Revised Geology and
Preliminary Aquifer Storage. Prepared for the Overstrand Local Municipality (April 2007), 29 pp.

Other

1. Blake, D. (2006). Beach dynamics along the Durban Bight coastline, KwaZulu-Natal. Unpublished
Honours thesis. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 96pp.

14
UMVOTO AFRICA David McGibbon
Full Name David Colquhoun McGibbon

Profession Trainee Geologist / Hydrogeologist

Year of Birth 1988

Experience 2 Years

Nationality South African (Passport No: 8804235076087)

LANGUAGES Read Write Speak


English Fluent Fluent Fluent
Afrikaans Fluent Fluent Fluent

TERTIARY EDUCATION

2013 - 2014 M Sc (Structural Geology) University of Cape Town


2012 - 2012 B Sc (Hons) (Applied Geology) University of Stellenbosch
2008 - 2011 B Sc (Earth Science) University of Stellenbosch

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Registered SACNASP, Cand Nat Sci 100219/14 (Earth Science)


Member Geological Society of South Africa (Main Society, Groundwater Division)
Member Golden Key International Honours Society

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES

Accident Prevention, Collision Avoidance and Skid Control (Killarney Training Centre)
The Application of Remote Sensing in Geologic Mapping and Mineral Exploration (Dr.Tsehaie Woldai)

OVERVIEW OF EXPERIENCE

2014 - Present Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd, Trainee Geologist/Hydrogeologist


2013 2014 University of Cape Town Tutor/Demonstrator
2011 - 2012 University of Stellenbosch Tutor/Demonstrator

KEY SKILLS

David McGibbon received 13 distinctions during the course of his undergraduate and Honours degree
studies in Geology at the University of Stellenbosch, where he specialised in structural geology and
mapping. He completed three months of fieldwork in Antarctica for his MSc which he was awarded in early
2014. During this time he undertook work in the fields of geological and structural field mapping,
geochemistry, differential GPS surveying and transmitted and reflected light microscopy, as well as
becoming familiar with many of the standard geological/hydrogeological analysis software packages
(Illustrator, Datamine, ERDAS, SgeMS, PhreeqC, AQTESOLV, AquaChem, FC programme) and GIS tools
(Arc GIS and Goodle Earth), and report writing requirements. Since joining Umvoto in 2014 he has gained
experience in hydrogeological field monitoring, percussion drilling and core drilling supervision, contract
supervision, undertaking hydrocensuses, ECO and drilling report writting, Carbon 14 sampling, tenders and
proposals, groundwater assessments, pumping test analysis and sustainable yield determination. He is
currently being trained in hydrogeology under the supervision of Dr. Chris Hartnady.

EXPERIENCE

2016 Private Client: Rusthof LSEN School Groundwater Assessment


Hydrogeological assessment, borehole siting and project management.

2016 Private Client: Hermanus Golf Club Groundwater Development


1
UMVOTO AFRICA David McGibbon
Pumping test analysis.

2016 Private Client: Tokai Estate Groundwater Development


Hydrogeological assessment and borehole siting.

2015 - present Private Client: Quaggaskloof Hydrogeological and Geothermal Assessment


Desktop and fieldwork for a hydrogeological assessment of a proposed eco-estate at
Quaggaskloof, next to Brandvlei Dam (Western Cape).

2015 Private Client: Midnight Storm Water License Middelberg Farm


Hydrogeological and geological study for the water license application.

2015 WWF: Review of Water Stewardship Webtool


Reviewing the webtool designed by the WWF for water stewardship.

2015 Private Client: Comments on Regulations Published under Government Notice R466
(Shale Gas Fracking)
Reviewing the fracking regulations for South Africa.

2015 Private Client: Danakil Potash Project Groundwater Modelling and Water Resource
Analysis
Pumping test analysis, water balance determination and sustainable yield determination of
exploration boreholes in the Danakil Depression for a Water Resource Evaluation for a
proposed potash mine.

2015 Private Client: Jan Fouries Kraal Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting
Mapping and reporting: A hydrogeological and geological study on Jan Fouries Kraal Farm in
Calitzdorp (Western Cape), to determine groundwater potential including determination and
siting of boreholes, and provision of licencing recommendations

2014 present Oudtshoorn Municipality: Deep Artesian Groundwater Exploration for Oudtshoorn
Supply (DAGEOS)
Geological, structural and hydrogeological mapping of Table Mountain Group aquifer
systems. Analysis of flow test data to estimate aquifer dynamics, such as recovery
predictions. Logging of TMG chips from C1d3 borehole (525 m). Contract and on-site
management of exploratory borehole drilling at Blossoms.
2014 2015 AE-AMD Renewable Energy: Solar Facility Groundwater Assessments
Hydrogeological investigations and hydrocensuses for proposed solar facilities in Reivilo
(North West). Pumping test analysis and sustainable yield determination.
2014 present Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation: Support to the Continuation of the Water
Reconciliation Strategy for the Western Cape Water Supply System
Cape Flats Aquifer Urban Groundwater Management Strategy development and analysising
potential point and non-point sources of pollution in the Berg River Catchment.
2008 2013 University field work and mapping
MSc field work in Antarctica for three months and Hons field work near Yzerfontein for one
month. Field trips during university to Aggeneys, Cape Columbine and Laingsburg.
Demonstrator for 3rd year field trips to Aggeneys and Nous Wells (2013), Nuy Valley (2013)
and Yzerfontein (2012). Demonstrator for practicals in 2013 for: structural geology to 2nd
and 3rd years, UCT, geography environmental science to 1st years, UCT.
2011 Bloy Resource Evalutaion located in George, South Africa
Resource evaluation internship

Consulting Reports

1. Blake, D. and McGibbon, D. C. (2016). Rusthof LSEN School Groundwater Assessment and
Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Hatch Goba (Pty) Ltd. Report No.
859/03/01/2016 (February 2016), 16pp.

2
UMVOTO AFRICA David McGibbon
2. Blake, D. and McGibbon, D. C. (2016). Faircape Tokai Groundwater Development. Phase 1
Groundwater Assessment and Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Faircape
Group Holdings (Pty) Ltd). Report No. 857/01/01/2016 (February 2016), 26pp.
3. Blake, D., Hay, E. R., Riemann, K., Molzen, G. A., McGibbon, D. C., Towers, L., Adler, A., Nolakana,
L. and Lee, P. (2015). Middelberg 12/643 Water Use Licence Application Water Use Licence
Application. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Middelberg H2O (Pty) Ltd. Report No.
828/01/01/2015 (December 2015), 56pp.
4. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Outeniqua Mountain Geological Update. Prepared by
Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Municipality, Report No. 603/F1.7/2/2015 (July 2015), 8pp.
5. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Interim Monitoring Report October 2014 to March 2015.
Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Municipality, Report No. 603/2.2/1/2015 (August
2015), 8pp.
6. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D., Hartnady, M. I. H., Botha, F. S., Hay, E. R., Nolokana, L., McGibbon,
D. C., Riemann, K., Lourens, J. B. Lourens and Kuhudzai, A. (2015). Danakil Potash Project
Groundwater Modelling and Water Resource Analysis. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for
Circum Minerals Ltd (July 2015), 117pp.
7. McGibbon, D. C., Blake, D. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2015). Monitoring Report 2011 2014 Update.
Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Municipality, Report No. 603/2.2/1/2014 (August
2015), 64pp.
8. McGibbon, D. C. and Hartnady, C. J. H. (2015). Pumping Test Report 2014. Prepared by Umvoto
Africa (Pty) Ltd for Oudtshoorn Municipality, Report No. 603/2.2/2/2014 (August 2015), 96pp.
9. Hartnady, C. J. H., Blake, D., Hartnady, M. I. H., Botha, F. S., Hay, E. R., Nolokana, L., McGibbon,
D. C., Riemann, K., Lourens, J. B. Lourens and Kuhudzai, A. (2015). Danakil Potash Project
Groundwater Modelling and Water Resource Analysis. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd for
Circum Minerals Ltd, Report No. 838/06-08/01/2015 (July 2015), 117pp.
10. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Jan Fouries Kraal Farm Groundwater Assessment and
Borehole Siting. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Mr Gerrie Mathee (Uhuru Guest
Farm) (July 2015), 21pp.
11. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2015). Brakfontein Solar Facility Phase 2 Pumping Test and
Hydrochemical Analysis Report. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on behalf of AE-AMD
Renewable Energy (Pty) Ltd (June 2015), 17pp.
12. Lee. P., McGibbon. D., Mazibuko. S., Hay. R. and Blake. D., 2014. Klip River Monitoring for Alien
Vegetation Control. Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project WCR 17. Prepared for Oudtshoorn Local
Municipality.
13. McGibbon, D. C. and Blake, D. (2014). Brakfontein Solar Facility Hydrogeological Assessment:
Phase 1 Desktop Groundwater Resource Assessment. Prepared by Umvoto Africa (Pty) Ltd on
behalf of AE-AMD Renewable Energy (Pty) Ltd (November 2014), 14pp.

Conferences and Seminars

Presentations

1. McGibbon, D. C. (2015). Flow test analysis and monitoring of the deep confined Peninsula aquifer in
Blossoms (Oudtshoorn), Western Cape, South Africa. 4th South African Young Water Professional
and 1st African Young Water Professional Conference, Council for Scientific and Industrial research
(CSIR), Pretoria, South Africa, 2015.
2. Hay, R., McGibbon, D. C., Botha, F. (2015). Cape Flats and False Bay Opportunity to Change.
IMESA Conference, Cape Town, South Africa, 2015.
3. McGibbon, D. C. (2015). Flow test analysis and monitoring of the deep confined Peninsula aquifer in
Blossoms (Oudtshoorn), Western Cape, South Africa. 14th South African Groundwater Division
Conference, Muldersdrift, South Africa, 2015.
4. Blake, D., Hartnady, C. J. H., McGibbon, D. C., Hartnady, M. I. H. and Molzen, G. A. (2015).
Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project: Exploratory drilling results from the Blossoms Wellfield. Poster
exhibited at the 14th South African Groundwater Division Conference, Muldersdrift, South Africa,
2015.

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