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ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
AND
STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
Namakwa District Municipality
Final Report
4 March 2011
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CONSULTANTS
147 Bram Fisher Drive
FERNDALE
2194
Phone: (011) 781 1730
Fax: (011) 781 1731
Email: ciaran@nemai.co.za
Copyright Nemai Consulting 2011
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. i
TITLE AND APPROVAL PAGE
TITLE: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
AND STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN
CLIENT : Namakwa District Municipality
P O Box 5
Van Riebeeck street
SPRINGBOK
8240
PREPARED BY Nemai Consulting C.C.
P.O. Box 1673
Sunninghill
2157
Telephone: (011) 781 1730
Facsimile : (011) 781 1731
AUTHORS C. Chidley, R. Le Roux, E. Holton
__________________________ __________________
Signature Date
APPROVAL
__________________________ __________________
Signature Date
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Nemai Consulting C.C. ii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Namakwa Environmental Management Framework (EMF) and Strategic
Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) was developed in order to provide a
high level plan for sustainable development in the Namakwa District Municipality
of the Northern Cape Province.
The EMF and SEMP provides an evaluation of the state of the environment,
sets out an environmental vision and details the constraints, opportunities,
management measures, monitoring indicators and desired state of the
environment for the various environmental elements. The EMF, the spatial
section of the study, is presented as a series of environmental management
zones which present the sensitive aspects of the environment, which land uses
are suitable in each zone and which environmental studies should be conducted
for proposed developments in each zone.
The status quo in the district can be characterised as a large arid area with a
dispersed population and high population densities where settlements have
been established. Water sources include the Orange River to the north of the
district, which has allocable water available. Groundwater sources are limited
and both ground water and surface water pollution represent a threat. The
central region of the district is dominated topographically by the Kamiesberg
Mountains which provide important habitats for both flora and fauna. The
southern and eastern regions of the district are largely plains.
The coastline has been highly impacted upon by diamond mining and access
has been restricted for the best part of two generations. As diamond resources
become fully exploited, and access to the coastline improves, the extent of the
damage, and of the opportunities that the change of landuse presents will
become evident to the residents of the district and the region.
Higher biodiversity is generally found to the north-west and along the coastline
than in the interior and eastern areas of the district. The district is home to the
Succulent Karoo biome and is a biodiversity hotspot of worldwide significance.
Due to the importance of biodiversity to the tourism economy, the district has a
well-developed biodiversity plan that has formed an important input to this
SEMP and EFM. The district supports a large variety of fauna, which include
endemic reptile, tortoise, frogs, scorpion and the Riverine Rabbit. There is large
variety of buck including Grey Reedbuck, Steenbok, Springbok and Gemsbok.
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District geology is generally stable and the district has general poor quality soils
that do not readily support cropping. Soil quality increases in the south and
supports agricultural crops.
With regards the impact of climate change, the district is expected to get warmer
and drier which will have important downstream impacts upon social and
economic development. The impacts will first be felt by various environmental
elements including water availability and habitat change.
The district’s population is located in relatively few settlements and is generally
poor with low education levels. Due to the relatively highly concentrated
economy with its focus on mining, agriculture, government service and tourism,
economic dislocations affect the population more than it would in larger and
more diverse economies. The population of the district is ageing and migrating
towards the better economic opportunities in the district and the broader region.
The district is has a rich and long history with many heritage artefacts that merit
preservation.
The Strategic Environmental Management Plan considers fourteen
environmental elements in the District. These fourteen are:
Climate;
Hydrology;
Groundwater;
Topography;
Soils;
Flora;
Fauna;
Coastal Environment;
Social Environment;
Tourism;
Mining; and
Agriculture.
Each of these elements are important components of the biophysical, economic
and social environment of the Namakwa District Municipality.
The management measures acknowledge the need for social and economic
development and provide strategic issues which should be addressed to take
advantage of the environmental goods and services in the district. On the other
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hand, the strategic issues in the SEMP provide strategic actions that should be
taken to protect and conserve environmental resources.
Noteworthy amongst the strategic action plans is the once-in-a-generation
opportunity to re-make the coastal strip and to secure its use for the greater
good. This opportunity presents itself as coastal diamond mining activities
decline and access to the coastal strip becomes available.
The Environmental Management Framework is presented as a map showing the
Environmental Management Zones in the Namakwa District Municipality. There
are six Environment Managements Zones and one additional zone for areas
where insufficient information exists to make a determination. The seven zones
are named from A to G. The zone descriptions are as follows:
A. The zone includes a number of environmentally sensitive features
and development should be avoided. If the development is critical to
the economic and social wellbeing of the local population, utmost
care should be taken to avoid impacts and mitigate where possible.
B. Several environmentally sensitive features are present. Development
should be restricted in terms of type and magnitude of impact. This
rating is not very lenient in terms of development but does recognise
that development cannot be excluded where compelling economic
and social benefits will be derived for the local and regional
population. All legislative requirements should be adhered to and a
fully inclusive consideration of the biophysical receptors should be
undertaken. Development in these areas will also require a
comprehensive public participation process with input from
stakeholders and government organisations.
C. These areas include environmentally sensitive features. Development
in this zone must serve to complement the area and should be limited
where relevant. Adequate provision should be made for the protection
of environmental features and a fully inclusive participation process
should be conducted.
D. These areas include environmentally sensitive features which are
relatively common in the study area. Development must be guided by
the constraints offered by the site and must be ensure that adequate
provision is made for protection of environmental features. Applicable
legislation should drive the process to be followed.
E. The area is regarded to have little environmental sensitivity in
comparison to the Zones A to D. Development should be facilitated in
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this area whilst ensuring compliance to existing legislation and best
practice approaches.
F. The area is regarded to have been potentially has been heavily
impacted upon. Development should be facilitated in this area whilst
ensuring compliance to existing legislation and best practice
approaches.
G. No rating was provided due to lack of relevant information.
The focus of the Environmental Management Zones is to restrict development in
the zones with the greatest sensitivity, and allow development in the zones of
low sensitivity.
The EMF does not prohibit development in any one zone, neither does it give
carte blanche for un-restricted development in any zone. The EMF should be
used as guidance to the sensitivities of the proposed development area and
tailor development planning and environmental authorisation approaches to the
level of sensitivity in each zone.
The blocks forming the components of each zone are large and reflect the size
of the study area, as well as the degree of certainty of the input data. The use of
these large component blocks provides environmental planners with the
necessary latitude to strike the balance between the use of environmental goods
and services, and protection of environmental resources.
The SEMP and EMF serves as a framework for environmental planning and a
desktop tool for the analysis of development proposals. The tool should be
reviewed in five years’ time to keep pace with development in the district.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................. II
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................................. VI
TABLE OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................... IX
ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................. XII
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................... 1
1.1 Background ............................................................................................. 1
1.2 Project Area ............................................................................................. 2
1.3 Environmental Orientation ....................................................................... 4
1.4 Aims and Objectives of the EMF .............................................................. 6
1.5 Methodology and Approach ..................................................................... 6
1.6 Assumptions and Limitations ................................................................... 7
CHAPTER 2. ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION REVIEW ............................. 8
2.1 National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) .................... 8
2.2 NEMA Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations ................ 11
CHAPTER 3. STAKEHOLDERS CONSULTATION AND PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION ................................................................................... 13
3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................ 13
3.2 Project Steering Committee ................................................................... 14
3.3 Public Open Days .................................................................................. 14
3.4 Stakeholder Consultation ....................................................................... 16
CHAPTER 4. STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT ............................................. 17
4.1 Physical Environment ............................................................................ 17
4.1.1 Climate ................................................................................................................. 17 4.1.2 Geology ................................................................................................................ 24 4.1.3 Hydrology ............................................................................................................. 26 4.1.4 Groundwater ........................................................................................................ 32 4.1.5 Topography .......................................................................................................... 38 4.1.6 Soils ..................................................................................................................... 39 4.1.7 Flora ..................................................................................................................... 40 4.1.8 Fauna ................................................................................................................... 61
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4.1.9 Coastal Areas ...................................................................................................... 66
4.2 Social Environment ................................................................................ 75
4.2.1 Municipal Setting .................................................................................................. 75 4.2.2 Demographic Profile ............................................................................................ 88 4.2.3 Household and Population Analysis .................................................................... 91 4.2.4 Population Structure ............................................................................................ 94 4.2.5 Income Distribution .............................................................................................. 96 4.2.6 Education and Literacy ........................................................................................ 99 4.2.7 Living Conditions ................................................................................................ 102
4.3 Economic Environment ........................................................................ 106
4.3.1 General Economy and Employment .................................................................. 106 4.3.2 Tourism .............................................................................................................. 112 4.3.3 Land Use ............................................................................................................ 119 4.3.4 Mining ................................................................................................................ 124 4.3.5 Agriculture .......................................................................................................... 131 4.3.6 Infrastructure and Service Provision .................................................................. 133
CHAPTER 5. STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 148
5.1 Environmental Management Planning Considerations ......................... 148
5.2 Vision for the Environment ................................................................... 149
5.2.1 Natural Environment .......................................................................................... 150 5.2.2 Socio-Economic Environment ............................................................................ 151 5.2.3 Services Environment ........................................................................................ 152 5.2.4 Land Use Environment ...................................................................................... 152 5.2.5 Policy Environment ............................................................................................ 153
5.3 Legislative Framework ......................................................................... 153
5.3.1 Environmental Law ............................................................................................ 154 5.3.2 Management of Environmental Elements .......................................................... 162
5.4 Environmental Elements ...................................................................... 167
5.4.1 Climate ............................................................................................................... 168 5.4.2 Hydrology ........................................................................................................... 176 5.4.3 Groundwater ...................................................................................................... 184 5.4.4 Topography ........................................................................................................ 193 5.4.5 Soils ................................................................................................................... 201 5.4.6 Flora ................................................................................................................... 208 5.4.7 Fauna ................................................................................................................. 219 5.4.8 Coastal Environment.......................................................................................... 229 5.4.9 Social Environment ............................................................................................ 240 5.4.10 Infrastructure and Service Provision .................................................................. 247 5.4.11 Economic Environment ...................................................................................... 251 5.4.12 Tourism .............................................................................................................. 255 5.4.13 Mining ................................................................................................................ 260
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5.4.14 Agriculture .......................................................................................................... 267
CHAPTER 6. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ZONES ......................... 275
6.1 Purpose ............................................................................................... 275
6.2 Methodology ........................................................................................ 276
6.2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................ 276 6.2.2 Process for Development of Environmental Management Zones ..................... 276
6.3 Environmental Management Zones ..................................................... 280
6.3.1 Critical Sites ....................................................................................................... 281 6.3.2 Important Sites ................................................................................................... 282 6.3.3 Protected Areas ................................................................................................. 282 6.3.4 Coastal line ........................................................................................................ 282 6.3.5 Priority Areas ..................................................................................................... 283 6.3.6 Ecological Supporting Areas .............................................................................. 283 6.3.7 Rivers ................................................................................................................. 284 6.3.8 Wetlands ............................................................................................................ 284 6.3.9 Slopes ................................................................................................................ 284 6.3.10 Population Centres ............................................................................................ 285 6.3.11 Cultural and Historical Features ........................................................................ 285 6.3.12 Mines.................................................................................................................. 286
6.4 Management of Environmental Management Zones ............................ 286
6.5 Environmental Investigations ............................................................... 289
CHAPTER 7. MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT .................................... 292
7.1 Monitoring ............................................................................................ 292
CHAPTER 8. REFERENCES ........................................................................ 293
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TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Rainfall Regions of South Africa 18
Figure 2 Climatic regions within the NDM. 20
Figure 3 Wind Rose at Alexander Bay 22
Figure 4 Geological Map, NDM. 25
Figure 5 National Water Management Areas 28
Figure 6 NDM Water Management Areas 29
Figure 7 TDS Mapping in the Lower Orange Water Management Area 34
Figure 8 Wetlands, NDM. 37
Figure 9 SKEP Priority Areas, NDM 43
Figure 10 Vegetation Map, NDM 45
Figure 11 Municipal Setting: Richtersveld Local Municipality 77
Figure 12 Municipal Setting: Nama Khoi Local Municipality 79
Figure 13 Municipal Setting: Khai Ma Local Municipality 81
Figure 14 Municipal Setting: Kamiesberg Local Municipality 83
Figure 15 Municipal Setting: Hantam Local Municipality 85
Figure 16 Municipal Setting: Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality 87
Figure 17 Namakwa Demarcation Population Centres, NDM. 89
Figure 18 Total Employment by Industry 111
Figure 19 Cultural and Historical Features, NDM. 118
Figure 20 Location of Conservation Areas 121
Figure 21 Active Mines, NDM. 126
TABLE OF TABLES
Table 1 Details for Round One Public Meetings 14
Table 2 Status Quo Public Meetings – Newspaper Adverts 15
Table 3 Minimum and maximum temperatures - main towns of the NDM 21
Table 4 Water Management Areas in the NDM 27
Table 5 Biomes, vegetation types and area covered within the NDM (SANBI, 2006) 44
Table 6: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Hantam Local Municipality 46
Table 7: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Kamiesberg Local Municipality 48
Table 8: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality 49
Table 9 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Khai - Ma Local Municipality 50
Table 10 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Nama Koi Local Municipality 51
Table 11 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Richtersveld Local Municipality 53
Table 12 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the DMA 56
Table 13 SANParks New Biodiversity Corridors, NDM. 60
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Table 14 Population Centres, NDM. 90
Table 15 Number of individuals by urban / non urban 91
Table 16 Total number of persons within the NDM 92
Table 17 Total number of households within the NDM, (Community Survey 2007 and
Census 2001) 94
Table 18 Age structure within the NDM (Census, 2001). 94
Table 19 Gender structure within the NDM 96
Table 20 Person Income per Income Bracket and Municipality (% of District Total) 96
Table 21 Person Income per Income Bracket and Municipality (% of LM Total) 97
Table 22 Percentage of households by annual household income within the NDM
(Census, 2001) 98
Table 23 Number of individuals (age 20+) by highest education level reached (Census
2001) 100
Table 24 Number of individuals (age 20+) by higher education levels (Census 2001) 100
Table 25 Percentage distribution of households by type of main dwelling 103
Table 26 Percentage distribution of households by type of water source 104
Table 27 Percentage distribution of households by tenure status 105
Table 28 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for cooking
105
Table 29 Local municipalities contribution to NDM GGP 108
Table 30 Number of individuals (Age 15-65) by employment status (Census 2001) 108
Table 31 Number of employed individuals (age 15-65) by industry (Census 2001) 110
Table 32 Number of employed individuals (age 15-65) by occupation (Census 2001) 112
Table 33 Cultural and historical features, NDM. 115
Table 34 Types of mining activities within the NDM 127
Table 35 Types of farming within the NDM 132
Table 36 Types of crops within the NDM 132
Table 37 Transport Mode within the Northern Cape Province and the NDM (Census,
2001) 133
Table 38 Percentage distribution of households by type of water source in the NDM
(Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 134
Table 39 Percentage distribution of households by type of toilet facilities in the NDM
(Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 138
Table 40 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for lighting
within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 139
Table 41 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for heating
within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 140
Table 42 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for cooking
within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 141
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Table 43 Percentage distribution of households by type of refuse disposal within the
NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001) 143
Table 44 Percentage distribution of households by type of refuse disposal by local
municipalities (Community Survey 2007) 143
Table 45 Landfill sites mixed use within the NDM. 145
Table 46 Environmental Sensitivity Index 280
Table 47 Development Types Suitable for Each Environmental Management Zone 287
Table 48 Environmental Investigations Suitable for Each Environmental Management
Zone 289
TABLE OF APPENDICES
Appendix A. THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ........................................... 298
Appendix B. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ZONES ........................................ 324
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ABBREVIATIONS
ABET Adult Basic Education Training Programme
ADEs Aquifer Dependent Ecosystems
AKTP Artisan Skills Training Programmes
BCLME Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem
BID Background Information System
CARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983)
CBA’s Critical biodiversity areas
CEPF Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund
CITES The Convention on the Trade In Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora
CPP Coastal Public Property
CPZ Coastal Protection Zone
DALREC Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, Environment and
Conservation:
DEAT Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
DMA District Management Area
DWA Department of Water Affairs
DWAF Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
ECA Environmental Conservation Act
ECO Environment Control Officer
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMF Environmental Management Framework
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EMPRs Environmental Management Programme Reports
EPWP Expanded Public Works Programme
ESI Environmental Sensitivity Index
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GGP Gross Geographic Product
GIS Geographical Information System
HACCP Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point
HLM Hantam Local Municipality
IDP Integrated Development Plan
IEM Integrated Environmental Management
IWMP Integrated Waste Management Plan
KHLM Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality
KLM Kamiesberg Local Municipality
KMLM Khai-Ma Local Municipality
LOWMA Lower Orange Water Management Area
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NCDALR Northern Cape Department of Agriculture and Land Reform
NC DENC Northern Cape Department of Environment and Nature
Conservation
NDM Namakwa District Municipality
NEMA National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998)
NEMAQA National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act
NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act
NEMPAA National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act
NGO Non-Governmental Organisation
NHRA National Heritage Resources Act (25 of 1999)
NKLM Nama Khoi Local Municipality
NWA National Water Act (38 of 1998)
MEC Member of the Executive Council
ORM Orange River Mouth
PSC Project Steering Committee
RLM Richtersveld Local Municipality
SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency
SALT South African Large Telescope
SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute
SANParks South Africa National Parks
SDF Spatial Development Framework
SEMP Strategic Environmental Management Plan
SKA Square Kilometre Array
SKEP Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme
SMME Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise
TDS Total dissolved solids
WMAs Water Management Areas
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CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) and Strategic Environmental
Management (SEMP) plan is a document that aims to ensure that environmental
limits to development are included in spatial planning documents. The need for
spatial environmental information is critical both as a guide to areas that should
be protected from excessive development, as well as to highlight to other
planning disciplines the opportunities those environmental resources present to
enhancing development.
It is often the case that planning disciplines neglect environmental constraints
and opportunities owing to a lack of information or of knowledge with regards to
the resources and services that the environment of a particular areas offers.
With this in mind, an EMF and SEMP was commissioned by the Northern Cape
Department of Environment and Nature Conservation (NC DENC) and the
Namakwa District Municipality (NDM) for the entire area of the NDM. Nemai
Consulting was appointed to carry out the work.
The aim of the EMF is to facilitate decision-making that will ensure sustainable
management of natural resources. The EMF will be used as an input to the
revised Namakwa Spatial Development Plan and will provide a basis for co-
ordinated decision-making between the local and district municipalities to
manage sustainable development.
The EMF will include a biophysical assessment of the status quo of the
environment in the NDM and an assessment of the factors affecting the natural
environment. These factors such as pollution, population growth, poverty and
development negatively impact the natural resources and the ecosystem.
A challenge facing the Northern Cape province is to engage in a multi-
dimensional approach to spatial planning and development that goes beyond
single perspectives (i.e. economic growth, infrastructure provision, poverty
alleviation etc) to, both space and time (long- & short-term). This calls for a
socio-spatial approach to planning, taking into account the need for a place-
making approach, while simultaneously considering the bigger whole and the
public good (both in the short term and over the long term). This implies flexible,
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yet institutional, readiness and capacity in governance to ensure a balance
between short-term needs and long term visions and costs.
This entails the balancing of elements of development that are:
based on economic potentials and marginal environmental impacts;
based on identification of resource potentials;
based on achieving development readiness – resources, infrastructure,
institutional;
based on balanced development – urban/rural;
based on social need identification; and
based on measurable targets and indicators (Provincial Growth and
Development Strategy Abridged Discussion Document, www.info.gov.za).
This draft of the document is intended to be gazetted for public comment, prior
to adoption.
1.2 Project Area
The NDM is situated in the north western area of South Africa and in the
western part of the Northern Cape. It borders Namibia to the north, the Western
Cape Province to the south, the Siyanda and Pixley ka Seme Districts of the
Northern Cape Province to the north-east and east and the Atlantic Ocean to the
west.
The NDM is the largest district municipality in the country measured by surface
area (approximately 126 747km2). It comprises the following local municipalities:
Nama Khoi Local Municipality (NKLM);
Hantam Local Municipality (HLM);
Khai-Ma Local Municipality (KMLM);
Kamiesberg Local Municipality (KLM);
Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality (KHLM); and
Richtersveld Local Municipality (RLM).
Major towns in the NDM include Springbok, Calvinia. Williston and Sutherland.
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Figure 1 Locality Map: NDM.
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1.3 Environmental Orientation
Although environmental practitioners are well aware, and of no need of,
orientation with regards to what the term ‘environment’ means and what aspects
encompass sustainable management, it is worthwhile repeating this information
for practitioners and interested parties outside the field.
The environment comprises the social, biophysical and economic spheres.
The social sphere encompasses all community interactions with the
environment, it represents the human element of the field and is of paramount
importance. One has to look no further than the National Environmental
Management Act, which holds as one its principles that “Environmental
management must place people and their needs at the forefront of its concern,
and serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural and social
interests equitably”. This admonition should not be forgotten when conducting a
study such as this.
The second sphere is biophysical. This area encompasses all the areas that
have traditionally been the preserve of ecological and geographical scientists.
Areas include the land, water and atmosphere of the earth, micro organisms,
plant and animal life and the intersections and interaction between these
aspects.
The third sphere is the economic sphere. Economics enters the environmental
field owing to there being an economic cost and benefit from impacting upon the
environment. This aspect is closely linked to the social aspect, since economic
considerations are a human construct and regulate the resources that should be
allocated to environmental protection, or non-protection, as the case may be.
These three spheres interact and create the field “environment” that is used in
this document.
Central to this document, and any other environmental protection and
management measure is the notion that the environment is a necessary
condition for human advancement. All human activity is linked to the
environment in some way or another. It is true to say that without the ecosystem
services that the environment provides, human development and human
happiness will both be negatively impacted.
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To illustrate this point and to persuade the reader of the centrality of the
environment to all of our lives, it is necessary to list the goods and services that
the environment provides.
In terms of goods, the environment provides the following:
Food;
Fresh water;
Construction material;
Medicinal ingredients;
Recreation; and
Tourism.
This list is not exhaustive but demonstrates that these goods are essential to
human life.
The services that the environment provides include the following:
Maintaining hydrological cycles – rainwater cycles, providing
water, the essences of life;
Regulating climate – an amenable climate is essential to
human existence;
Purification of air and water – again, central to human
existence;
Storing and cycling of nutrients; and
Flood regulation.
The services again go the heart of human existence and demonstrate the need
for environmental protection.
Consequent to the above, any threats to the environment will eventually impact
upon the quality of life. The key threats to the environment, and which will be
addressed during the EMF process include:
Pollution;
Loss of Biodiversity;
Mining;
Climate Change; and
Erosion.
This EMF and SEMP is one of many tools that can be used to ensure that the
environment is managed in such way as to continue providing these goods and
services in order to sustain the livelihoods of the people resident in the NDM.
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1.4 Aims and Objectives of the EMF
The aim of the project is to develop an EMF that will guide local and provincial
decision-making to manage sustainable development of the NDM. This EMF will
outline the environmental, social and economic aspects of the NDM. The EMF
will also provide the provincial, district and local authorities with decision support
guidelines that will assist in executing their respective mandates in an objective
and efficient manner. The specific objectives of the EMF include the following:
To develop an EMF and a SEMP to facilitate decision-making
which will ensure sustainable management of the natural
resources;
To provide strategic guidance on both environmental,
economic and social issues in the EMF area;
To identify environmentally sensitive areas;
To identify the environmental and development opportunities
and constraints;
To assess the economic and environmental potential of the
area;
To provide a decision support system in respect of
environmental issues and priorities in the EMF area;
To formulate a strategy that will incorporate issues such as
land use, planning and sensitive environmental resources; and
To include existing policies as frameworks for establishing
values, guidelines and standards for future developments.
1.5 Methodology and Approach
An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) is a framework of spatially
represented information connected to parameters, such as ecology, hydrology,
infrastructure and services. The main purpose of an EMF is to proactively
identify areas of potential conflict between development proposals and
critical/sensitive environments (DEAT, 1998).
An EMF provides a framework that defines the environmental attributes of an
area in a manner that evaluates the environmental opportunities and constraints
of the area. A Spatial Development Framework (SDF) defines the framework to
interpret future development and planning principles.
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Specific areas such as the ones listed below need to be addressed as a
minimum requirement:
Geology;
Hydrology;
Climate;
Vegetation;
Fauna;
Agriculture; and
Land Use.
The technical development of an EMF consists of the integration of spatially
represented data with environmental policies and management frameworks. The
EMF is an information source which provides guidance for all environmental and
development initiatives and aims at minimizing the gap between the policy
jurisdiction of local and provincial departments.
1.6 Assumptions and Limitations
The following limitations and assumptions are implicit in this report:
Environmental and social descriptions are based on limited
available literature; and
Various available data sources were used and it is assumed
that this data is accurate and correct;
The Terms of Reference for the project were based upon
Regulation 385, the EIA regulations, gazetted on 21 April 2006
regulations, not upon Regulation 547, the EMF regulations,
gazetted in 18 June 2010.
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CHAPTER 2. ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION REVIEW
The legislative framework that governs the development of an EMF consists of
the following acts, regulations and guidelines:
The National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of
1998), in particular Sections 2, 23 and 24; and
The NEMA Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Regulations (Government Notices R 385, R 386 and R 387)
promulgated in terms of chapter 5 NEMA, 1998, in particular
the guidelines and regulations relating to Environmental
Management Frameworks.
Key aspects of each of these legislative and regulatory documents are
described below.
2.1 National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998)
National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998), or NEMA, as it is
simply known, is the foundation piece of legislation for environmental
management on South Africa. EMFs are covered in Sections 2, 23 and 24.
Section 2 covers the principles that govern environmental management in the
country. This section covers the sustainable development factors that should be
considered when carrying out environmental planning, these are:
That the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity are
avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and
remedied;
that pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where
they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied; that the
disturbance of landscapes and sites that constitute the nation’s cultural
heritage is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, is
minimised and remedied;
that waste is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, is
minimised and re-used or recycled where possible and otherwise
disposed of in a responsible manner;
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that the use and exploitation of non-renewable natural resources is
responsible and equitable, and takes into account the consequences of
the depletion of the resource;
that the development, use and exploitation of renewable resources and
the ecosystems of which they are part do not exceed the level beyond
which their integrity is jeopardised;
that a risk-averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into
account the limits of current knowledge about the consequences of
decisions and actions; and
that negative impacts on the environment and on people’s environmental
rights be anticipated and prevented, and where they cannot be altogether
prevented, are minimised and remedied.
Coupled with these considerations, the following is stipulated with regards to
integrating social and economic aspects into the purely biophysical aspects of
the environment:
Environmental management must be integrated, acknowledging that all
elements of the environment are linked and interrelated, and it must take into
account the effects of decisions on all aspects of the environment and all people
in the environment by pursuing the selection of the best practicable
environmental option.
Thus, the principles to be followed by EMFs are established.
Section 24 (3) of NEMA, as amended which provides the legal standing of EMF
initiation, development and adoption and also lays out the objectives of such
tools. These objectives are to:
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promote the integration of the principles of environmental
management set out in section 2 into the making of all
decisions which may have a significant effect on the
environment;
identify, predict and evaluate the actual and potential impact
on the environment, socio-economic conditions and cultural
heritage, the risks and consequences and alternatives and
options for mitigation of activities, with a view to minimising
negative impacts, maximising benefits, and promoting
compliance with the principles of environmental management
as set out in section 2;
ensure that the effects of activities on the environment receive
adequate consideration before actions are taken in connection
with them;
ensure adequate and appropriate opportunity for public
participation in decisions that may affect the environment;
ensure the consideration of environmental attributes in
management and decision-making which may have a
significant effect on the environment; and
identify and employ the modes of environmental management
best suited to ensuring that a particular activity is pursued in
accordance with the principles of environmental management
set out in section 2.
The final paragraph of the section instructs the Director-General to co-ordinate
the development of such tools and to issue guidelines and manuals on how to
develop each tool.
One such tool has proven to be the EMF and SEMP, the subject of this study.
This tool has been relatively widely used in South Africa, especially in sensitive
or protected areas, and its development is the subject of debate and refinement.
There is currently no formal EMF guideline or manual which stipulates the
methodologies, content and format to be followed in the development of the
document.
Section 24 gives the Minister and her provincial counter-part, the MEC, the
power to regulate which activities need permission to proceed and to accept
spatial plans to assist in the authorization of new activities.
The relevant paragraph states:
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“…prepare compilations of information and maps that specify the attributes of
the environment in particular geographical areas, including the sensitivity,
extent, interrelationship and significance of such attributes which must be taken
into account by every organ of state charged by law with authorising, permitting
or otherwise allowing the implementation of a new activity, or with considering,
assessing and evaluating an existing activity”
In the case of the EMF and SEMP, this is clause that gives the authority to use
such a document as guidance for future EIA approvals.
The rest of section 24 provides the procedures for the development of
regulations and for the authorization of new activities.
2.2 NEMA Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations
The NEMA Regulations were promulgated in April 2006 and consist of a set of
three separate regulations: GNR 385, GNR 386 and GNR 387.
GNR 385 gives the requirements for authorizing new activities. These detail the
administrative procedures and the evaluation processes to be followed for any
new activity that has been listed in the following two regulations.
GNR 386 provides a list of activities that require a Basic Assessment in order for
them to be authorised. These apply to activities that have a lesser impact upon
the environment.
GNR 386 provides a list of activities that require a so-called “full EIA”, which
consists of a Scoping Report and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report
in order for them to be authorized. These apply to activities that have a greater
impact upon the environment.
GNR 385 is the regulation most relevant to the EMF and SEMP, in particular,
section 69 to 72.
Section 69 gives the “compilations of information and maps that specify the
attributes of the environment in particular geographical areas” to in section 24 of
NEMA the name, Environmental Management Framework and links the
development of an EMF to NEMA.
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Section 70 states that either the Minister or the MEC should formally initiate and
complete an EMF process. This is to present a draft EMF for public review and
comment and then to review the draft in the light of any comments received.
Section 71 provides the contents for a draft EMF. These are to:
identify by way of a map or otherwise the geographical area to
which it applies;
specify the attributes of the environment in the area, including
the sensitivity, extent, interrelationship and significance of
those attributes;
identify any parts in the area to which those attributes relate;
state the conservation status of the area and in those parts;
state the environmental management priorities of the area;
indicate the kind of activities that would have a significant
impact on those attributes and those that would not;
indicate the kind of activities that would be undesirable in the
area or in specific parts of the area; and
include any other matters that may be specified.
These requirements will be built into the EMF and SEMP developed for the
NDM.
Section 72 deals with the adoption and use of EMFs. It states that once
adopted, the EMF must be taken into account when reviewing EIA applications
for new activities. Formal adoption is achieved by notice in the Government
Gazette.
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CHAPTER 3. STAKEHOLDERS CONSULTATION AND
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
3.1 Introduction
Public Participation in the development of the EMF was required in terms of the
principles of NEMA as well as it being formally required during the process of
adoption of the EMF.
The aim of stakeholders’ consultation is to identify issues of concern and
suggestions as to the strategic actions to be taken regarding the content of the
SEMP and EMF.
Public participation began by identifying stakeholders in the project.
Stakeholders are the people and organizations that are involved and affected by
changes.
The stakeholders identified for this project are as follows:
The Namakwa District Municipality;
Nama Khoi Local Municipality;
Hantam Local Municipality;
Khai-Ma Local Municipality;
Kamiesberg Local Municipality;
Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality;
Richtersveld Local Municipality;
The local ward councillors;
The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry;
South African National Parks;
Department of Environmental Affairs and Nature Conservation;
The Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Plan (SKEP);
The Farmers Association;
The Department of Minerals and Energy;
Local communities;
Private Sector;
NGO’s; and
Local and provincial government.
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In order for the adoption of the EMF to proceed with few comments during the
public review period, prior to adoption, the project strategy has been to involve
the stakeholders and the public in the development of this draft document.
Stakeholder involvement and public participation was achieved through the
establishment of a Project Steering Committee (PSC), with regular meetings
and through the holding of public meetings during the Status Quo phase of the
project.
3.2 Project Steering Committee
The PSC’s membership includes all government departments and municipalities
affected by the EMF as well as the most prominent environmental Non-
Governmental Organisation active in the District. The PSC’s aim was to guide
the development of the document, provide information to be used in the
document and approve the stages of the document.
The inception meeting of the PSC was held in Springbok on 29 July 2009 and
the finalisations meeting was held, after numerous delays and postponed
meetings, on 27 Janaury 2011.
3.3 Public Open Days
The public open days was conducted at the following venues with the dates and
times provided in the table below:
Table 1 Details for Round One Public Meetings
Alexander Bay Springbok Calvinia
Venue: Alexander Bay City Hall Venue: Namakwa High
School Hall
Venue: Calvinia Show
Hall
Date: 6 October 2009 Date: 7 October 2009 Date: 8 October 2009
Time: 13h00 – 17h00 Time: 13h00 – 17h00 Time: 13h00 – 17h00
A Background Information Document (BID) was made available to all
stakeholders. The purpose of the open days was to present the Status Quo
Report and to allow the public and other stakeholders to raise concerns and to
provide input on the status quo. The Comment and Reply Form attached to the
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BID as well as the newspaper ads that provided the consultant’s contact details
were the methods used for feedback.
The project was advertised in the following newspapers:
Table 2 Status Quo Public Meetings – Newspaper Adverts
Newspaper Distribution Area Date Of Publication Distribution
The Diamond Field
Advertiser Springbok 17 September 2009 10 000 copies
The Noordwester Calvinia 17 September 2009 3 000 copies
Die Gemsbok Upington 23 September 2009 10 000 copies
Die Eland Alexander Bay 25 September 2009 9 000 copies
Die Burger NDM 25 September 2009 15 000 copies
Die Gemsbok was used even though it is published in the Siyanda District
Municipality, centred around Upington, because it is a major urban centre in the
Northern Cape and that may contain a number of environmental groups
interested in the project.
The Plattelander (circulation 4 000) and The Rooihand (circulation 3 000) were
not used because their circulation is low and overlaps with The Diamond Field
Advertiser and Die Burger. No contact details were found for The
Richtersvelder.
The public open days did not achive the degree of participation that the project
managers had anticipitated. It did not appear, despite the advertisements, and
the following up with local cpouncillors, that the project was suffieicntly
interesting to attract large numbers of the public to the meetings.
However, valuable suggestions as to the environmental resources in each area,
their sensitivities and plans to take advange of the resources that existed were
made by the people who attended the meetings. These comments and
suggestions have been worked into this document.
The lack of attendance at the public meetings prompted the project managers to
review the use of this tool in favour of individual stakeholder consultation and
reviews at the PSC meetings. This approach was, with modifications, was taken
for the remainder of the development of document.
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3.4 Stakeholder Consultation
The public and the stakeholders were provided with the opportunity to give input
into the project. One-on-one meetings with the targeted groups were undertaken
within a 30 days review period.
The tools that will be used during the Stakeholder Consulation process were as
follows:
Registering of all I&APs and compilation of a comments and responses
database. The database will be continually updated throughout the
process;
A series of project meetings to explain the EMF to key stakeholders;
Email correspondence with IAPs to inform them of the availability of the
document and an appeal for comments.
This phase was undertaken from March 2010 to May 2010, with formal
responses being received from DENC:Conservation and IEM. Consultations
were also held with DEA: Decision Support Tools and Conersavtion
International, a prominent NGO operating in the NDM.
All comments and suggestions received during this phase were incorporated
into the document.
The Public Participation process is documented in Appendix A and comments
received from stakeholders are contained in Annexure A.
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CHAPTER 4. STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT
This section describes the state of the natural, social and economic environment
within the NDM.
4.1 Physical Environment
4.1.1 Climate
The NDM is characterised as a dry region with weather that is typical of desert
and semi-desert areas. Summer temperatures usually reach between 30 and
35°C degrees during the month of January and can sometimes exceed 40°C.
Winter temperatures are mild during the day reaching between 20 and 25°C.
Nights can be extremely cold with night temperatures often below 0°C (Northern
Cape Tourism Board, 2007).
According to the Northern Cape Tourism Board (2007), the highest temperature
to date of 47.8°C was recorded in 1939 at Goodhouse on the Orange River.
Sutherland, in the Hantam Karoo, is one of the coldest towns in South Africa
and often experiences snow and its average minimum temperature in June is -
6°C.
The rainfall is low and unreliable. The annual rainfall is between 50 mm to
400mm. Potential annual evapotranspiration is between 12-15 times the mean
annual precipitations. The Atlantic Ocean located west of the NDM influences
the climatic conditions within the District by producing coastal fog and dew
during winter months.
The figure below shows the mean annual rainfall across the entire Republic of
South Africa.
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Figure 1 Rainfall Regions of South Africa (http://134.76.173.220/rainfall/database/images/annual/1141500_3.gif)
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Figure1 clearly demonstrates that rainfall in the area of the district is amongst
the lowest in the country. This has implications for the ability of the area to be
used for crop and livestock production, with most parts of the country being
better suited to these activities than the NDM Municipal area.
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Figure 2 Climatic regions within the NDM.
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From the above map (Figure 2) it can be seen that the majority of the NDM is
characterised by arid climatic regions with an average annual temperature of
less than 18°C. These climatic regions include Steinkopf, Kamieskroom,
Namakwaland, Brandvlei and Williston.
Arid and warm areas with an average annual temperature of more than 18° C
include Kuboes, Alexander Bay, Lekkersing, Komaggas, Voolsdrift, Aggeneys
as well as areas south of Namakwaland and areas north and south of
Nieuwoudtville.
The arid areas that receive most of the rainfall in summer are Onseepkans,
Pofadder and Pella.
The areas that are characterised by winter rainfall are Kleinzee, Koiingnaas,
Garies and areas west and south of Lekkersing. The semiarid areas with annual
rainfall and cool average annual temperatures of less than 18°C include
Sutherland and areas northwest and southeast of Sutherland.
The semiarid areas with winter rainfall and cool and an average annual
temperature of less than 18°C include Nieuwoudtville and areas north and south
of Nieuwoudtville.
The table below (Table 3) indicates the minimum and maximum temperatures
within the main towns of the NDM.
Table 3 Minimum and maximum temperatures - main towns of the NDM
Namakwa Min Temperature Max Temperature
Alexander Bay 9°C 19°C
Calvinia 8°C 20°C
Springbok 13°C 18°C
Sutherland 0°C 16°C
In the NDM, the cold Benguela current has a strong influence on climate and
temperature with relatively mild temperatures, for example, Port Nolloth with
average daily maximum and minimum temperatures of 22°C and 14°C
respectively.
Wind measurements are taken for various stations in South Africa, the most
reliable of which being the seventeen automatic stations situated throughout the
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country which have high data availability and integrity. The only one of these
stations that is located in the NDM is the station at Alexander Bay. The wind
rose from this station (Sadco, 2005) is shown in the figure 3 below.
Figure 3 Wind Rose at Alexander Bay (Sadco, 2005)
The wind rose shows that the predominant wind is southerly and reaches
maximum speeds of 20 m/s, about 39 knots. These figures are likely to be
representative of the coastal areas of the NDM, but will be invalid for inland
wind.
An American company, Third Planet Enterprises, has erected a 60m mast on a
farm in the Richtersveld Local Municipality to measure wind for the possible
generating of wind energy (Richtersveld IDP, 2008).
Insolation, a measure of solar radiation received per square meter of surface
area, in the NDM ranges between 2 200 and 2 600 kWh/m2. The greater the
height above sea level, the greater the insolation. Thus areas such as those
around Springbok and southwards along the Kamiesberg to the Garies
mountains experiences insolation in the higher end of the range. The coastal
areas experience insolation at the lower end of the range (Reason et al., 2006).
There is growing consensus from climate modelling of the reality of climate
change. Variability in atmospheric circulation over the southern African region
has significant influences on the climate of South Africa, producing patterns over
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several years or decades, particularly with regard to the timing, duration and
intensity of rainfall and drought (Reason et al., 2006). There has been a trend of
increasing temperature over the long term, and this has affected southern Africa
by producing a progressive increase in the duration of dry spells. An overall
decreasing trend in summer rainfall was also noted (Reason et al 2006). Climate
change modelling has predicted these trends to continue, with a drier west
coast, wetter east coast, and less frequent but more intense precipitation
(Hewitson, 2007, Reason et al., 2006; DEAT, 2005).
The NDM is predicted to become generally warmer and drier, but with more
severe storms. Rainfall is anticipated to become more variable (Bates, et al.,
2008; Hewitson, 2007; Reason et al., 2006; DEAT, 2005).
Natural reserves of water, both surface water and groundwater, are likely to be
detrimentally impacted by the less frequent, but more intense, precipitation
(DEAT 2005). Overall, the amount of precipitation is anticipated to decrease,
although the intensity of storm events is expected to be greater (DEAT, 2005).
The design of existing infrastructure is not able to exploit this adequately, and
could potentially be damaged by flooding.
Flooding will also become more common, with increased scouring as a
consequence of faster-moving water through watercourse channels.
Groundwater recharge will be impaired with the more rapid movement of water
across the landscape, as well as the infiltration capacity of the soil being
exceeded by heavy precipitation, which limits the effectiveness of percolation
(Bates et al., 2008).
Periodic flooding followed by drought would also affect the efficiency of dams,
which would become prone to increased siltation, thus shallowing, and having
reduced capacity (DEAT, 2005). The reliability (and thus predictability) of stream
flow would decrease, and the effects of variable rainfall would affect the
reserves of groundwater as people would overexploit these during dry periods
(Mukheibir & Sparks, 2006).
Agriculture demands the greatest amount of the NDM`s water, and in a warming
climate, the water loss to evapotranspiration through agricultural crops will
increase (Mukheibir, 2007; DEAT, 2005). Much of the existing land surface used
for agriculture and grazing is only marginally productive, with low arable (or
long-term grazing) potential, further stretching the available water resources with
their additional irrigation demands (DEAT, 2005). The demand for water is
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expected to increase as the country becomes warmer and drier, and more land
becomes only marginally productive.
During drought periods more water is abstracted from groundwater sources
which may have higher dissolved mineral concentrations. This affects human
health directly, and where this water is used to irrigate, the effects of salinisation
are exacerbated. Water reuse is enhanced, and often includes water from
polluted sources.
Reduced river flow volumes impair their ability to dilute effluent, which makes
outbreaks of disease more likely (as pathogens are concentrated), increases the
solute load, and makes treatment of water more difficult (Bates et al., 2008;
DEAT, 2005).
Flooding, however, has a greater impact on water quality. Eutrophication,
increased sediment load, the occurrence and spread of disease, the
contamination of water courses with pollutants, and the overburdening of
wastewater treatment processes are the most common consequences (Bates et
al., 2008; DEAT, 2005).
Due to changing climatic conditions as a result of global warming, future
proposed activities in the region should seek to:
Include actions to manage the existing and predicted effects of climate
change, including impacts on temperature, rainfall and water availability;
Consider the mitigation of climate change, including the curbing of
greenhouse emissions associated with transport and electricity use.
4.1.2 Geology
The northern section of the NDM is dominated by the Namakwaland
Metamorphic Sequence with a section of the Gariep Supergroup on the west
coast at the border of South Africa and Namibia, as indicated in Figure 4.
Relatively small patches of the Cape Granite Suite and the Nama Group occur
in the north west of the District Municipality (Council of Geosciences; 2010).
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Figure 4 Geological Map of NDM .
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The Namakwaland Metamorphic consists of sedimentary, volcanic and intrusive
rock types. There is a wide variety of intrusive rock types, however they are
predominantly granites. The Gariep Supergroup consists of both igneous and
sedimentary rocks. The Kuboos Pluton is part of the Cape Granite Suite, the
Pluton is a gronadioritic intrusion (Council of Geosciences; 2010).
To the south of the District Municipality are the Dwyka and Ecca Groups with a
small section of the Nama Group on the border with the Western Cape (Council
of Geosciences; 2010).
The Nama Group is believed to have been formed from a peripheral basin; a
discontinuous conglomerate layer lies at the base of this Group. The Nama
Group also consists of quartzites and shales. The Ecca Group predominantly
consists of dark grey shales with interlayered sandstones. The Dwyka Group
contains sedimentary rocks such as shales and mudstones. The presence of
scraped and faceted pebbles as well as conglomerate is thought to be from
glacial movement and deposition (Council of Geosciences; 2010).
The geology of the NDM is stable with very little influence from seismic activity.
This despite the fact that Springbok suffered a light tremor of 1.6 on the Richter
scale on 25 May 2009. The closest known area of seismic activity is the
Milnerton Fault, 8 kilometres offshore in the vicinity of Cape Town. Seismic
activity in South Africa is monitored by the South African Seismograph Network,
which has 23 stations placed countrywide. One of these stations is located in
Komaggas, in the NDM. The network is maintained by the Council for
Geoscience (Linzer et al., 2007).
4.1.3 Hydrology
The NDM has within its boundaries two Water Management Areas, as indicated
in Table 4. Water Management Areas (WMAs) are the division between water
boards, both existing and future planned entities. They are established as a
management unit in the National Water Resource Strategy.
Catchment boundaries fall within WMAs and are, like the WMAs, based upon
the topography of a region and do not follow administrative boundaries, hence
the Water Management Areas do not fit into the district boundaries at all.
The two water management areas which fall within the district are tabulated
below.
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Table 4 Water Management Areas in the NDM
Designation Name Locality Capacity
[m3]
14 Lower Orange
Major Rivers include the Ongers,
Hartbees and Orange. Stretches
from Alexander Bay in the west to
Hanover and Richmond in the East
36 000
17 Olifants Doorn
Major Rivers include Olifants, Doorn,
Krom Sand and Sout. Stretches from
north of Loeriesfontein to De Doorns
in the South
128 000
The capacity figures indicate the capacity, in cubic meters, of each WMA. The
figures area placed in context by the Upper Orange WMA, which has the largest
capacity in the country of 11 566 000 m3and contains cities and towns such as
Bloemfontein, Barkley East, Hanover and Jacobsdal. The Lower Orange Water
Management Area occupies the largest geographic area of any WMA, but also
has the smallest capacity, by a factor of three, from the next smallest WMA. The
WMA with the next smallest capacity is a group of two, one of which is the
Olifants/Doorn WMA.
The figure 5 below provides additional locality information on the Water
Management Areas in South Africa.
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Figure 5 National Water Management Areas (Oosthuizen)
The locations of the two WMAs that lie within the NDM are shown in the figure 6 below.
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Figure 6 NDM Water Management Areas
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The Lower Orange WMA is the furthest downstream in the Orange River Basin
and as such is affected by upstream activities. Flows are largely supported by
means of releases from Gariep and Vanderkloof dams in the Upper Orange
WMA. Ninety percent of the runoff generated in the two Orange River WMAs is
generated in the Upper Orange WMA. Approximately 60% of the runoff
generated in the Lower Orange comes from the Fish River in Namibia which
enters the Orange River close to the river mouth (DWAF, 2004).
Sheep and goat farming is practised over most of the area. Large parts of the
WMA contain conservation areas. Cultivation is restricted to isolated patches
where higher rainfall occurs, and extensive irrigation is practised in the fertile
alluvial soils along the Orange River valley. Irrigation water is supplied by
releases from the Vanderkloof Dam.
Large mining operations occur in various parts of the WMA. There are no large
urban developments or power stations. Groundwater plays a major role in
meeting the water requirements of the towns and rural settlements along the
tributaries of the Orange.
Less than 1% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP, 2003) of South Africa
originates from the Lower Orange WMA. Economic activity is largely
concentrated along the Orange River, with several towns located on the banks
of the river, and at mining developments. (DWAF, 2004).
There are no storage dams in the WMA, with only a few smaller dams on some
of the main tributaries, all of which lie outside the NDM.
Potential for a dam in the Lower Orange River has been identified for the re-
regulation of releases from Vanderkloof Dam as well as the storage of flood
flows mainly from the Upper Orange WMA. This would facilitate more water
being made available for use in agriculture (DWAF, 2004).
Irrigation is the dominant water use sector in the Lower Orange WMA,
representing 94% of the total requirement for water of 1 130 million m³/a. Water
requirements for urban, rural and mining use respectively represents 3%, 2%
and 1% of the total water requirements in the WMA. Virtually all of the irrigation
developments are situated along the main stem of the Orange River, with most
of the irrigation being for high-value orchard crops (DWAF, 2004).
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Water is transferred from the Orange River for urban and mining use. Water
requirements in this regard are small and are associated with towns such as
Springbok, Steinkopf and Port Nolloth, as well as the mines in the area.
The Lower Orange WMA is in surplus which is available for allocation to users
or to large projects and also ecological reserve at Orange River mouth Ramsar
site (DWAF, 2004).
Water quality in the Orange River has been severely impacted upon by
extensive upstream developments. Salinity has increased due to the transfer of
high quality water out of the Orange River for development use and due to high
salinity irrigation return flows along the Orange River. Poor quality water from
the Vaal River, which contains a high proportion of irrigation return flows as well
as treated urban effluent, also enters the Orange.
There are algal blooms experienced in the main stem due to a combination of
irrigation return flows, diffuse sources, and poor quality water from the upstream
Vaal WMAs.
The Olifants-Doring WMA has a total area of 49 066 km2. It extends from the
Bokkeveld Plateau and Cedarberg mountains in the east and to the coastal
plains in the west and from the Hex River Mountains in the south to the
Knersvlakte in the north. The area has several high mountain ranges running in
a north-south direction and smaller ranges and valleys running in a north-
easterly direction (DWAF, 2002).
The WMA is generally arid, with an average annual rainfall of less than 300mm
per annum, although this varies considerably. The northern part of the basin,
which lies within the NDM, is extremely arid, with an average rainfall of less than
100mm. The southern areas of the WMA dominate the hydrology and contribute
the bulk of the flows in the basin. The area that lies within the NDM is
hydrologically unimportant. The mean annual runoff (MAR) for the entire WMA is
low, with the natural MAR to the estuary estimated to be 1 070 000 m3,
corresponding to about 2% to the country’s natural MAR (DWAF, 2002).
The Olifants River is the main river in the WMA, and is a perennial river which
rises 280 km from the mouth at about 800 m altitude on the Witzenberg plateau
- a winter rainfall area. Two major tributaries, the Doring and Hol Rivers, join the
river near Klawer and Vredendal, respectively (Figure 3).
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There are two major dams on the WMA, the Clanwilliam Dam and the Bulshoek
Dam (DWAF, 2005), both of which do not lie in the NDM. Hence river flows
control does not lie within the NDM. Since the estuary of the Olifants River
contains the largest salt marshes in South Africa, protection of this resource, in
terms of water quantity, does not fall to the NDM.
The Olifants/Doorn WMA contributes almost 3% of the agricultural output of the
national economy, and 1.5% of trade output, with most other sectors
contributing less than 0.3%. Overall, the Olifants/Doorn WMA makes the
smallest contribution of any WMA in the country, contributing under 0.5% of the
national economic output, and less than 1% of formal employment. Given that
the bulk of the hydrology lies outside the NDM, this WMA can be said to
contribute negligible value to the NDM Gross Geographic Product (DWAF,
2005).
The Olifants/Doorn WMA is in deficit, no surplus water is available for allocation
(DWAF, 2002).
4.1.4 Groundwater
Groundwater represents one of the most important water sources in NDM as it
services most of the community water supply schemes. Groundwater has a vital
role in providing water supply in urban and rural areas within the NDM.
Groundwater is supplied for agricultural, municipal and industrial use by
constructing and operating extraction wells.
The NDM does not play host to many Aquifer Dependent Ecosystems (ADEs),
since groundwater contributes less than one percent to total water flows (Colvin
et al, 2008), thus groundwater is a not a major risk to natural floral and faunal
communities. There are areas around in the KLM, west of Garies, towards the
coast where ADEs exist, in addition, ADEs exist in the areas north of
Hondeklipbaai in the NKLM.
Groundwater utilisation is of major importance in the Lower Orange WMA and
often constitutes the only source of water for many rural towns and settlements.
Groundwater availability in the Coastal sub-area, near Alexander Bay and Port
Nolloth is very limited.
In the NDM, the hydrogeology is such that the unconsolidated sub-structure
hosts intergranular aquifers which have low yield due to the presence of fine and
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clayey materials. Aquifers are dependent upon rainfall for recharge. Recharge
varies with, amongst others, the frequency of rainfall, rock type, soil and ground
cover. It is estimated that for rainfall events larger than 20mm, between 1 and
10% of the rainfall will infiltrate to aquifers. Episodic weather events such as the
flood events of 1973-6 and in 1988 and the droughts on 1985, 1985 and 1992
are large determinants of the full recharge or large recession of groundwater
levels. In general, the major recharge events occur with a frequency of fifteen
years (DWAF, 2008).
The periods in between these events are characterised by gradual natural draw
downs, which fluctuates by season. Groundwater abstraction for social and
economic purposes is superimposed on this drawdown and can have great
impacts upon the rate of draw down. Once an aquifer has been de-watered,
surface instability is possible, especially in areas of dolomites. This will
negatively influence the structure of the aquifer and limited future recharge.
Groundwater quality in the Lower Orange WMA varies from good to
unacceptable, with a bias towards unacceptable, and is one of the main factors
affecting the development of available groundwater resources. Total dissolved
solids (TDS), nitrates and fluorides represent the majority of water quality
problems that occur. Water quality issues that need to be addressed include
diffuse pollution sources from agriculture, management of local sanitation
problems at small towns, and the algae problem on the Orange River main stem
(DWAF, 2004).
TDS, a measure of the total organic and inorganic substances in the water, is an
indicator of the aesthetic characteristics of the ground water, and it is an
indicator for chemical contamination. Thus high values present water that is
cloudy in appearance and which may be polluted from various point of diffuse
pollution sources (DWAF, 2004). Generally TDS are high in all areas of the
NDM apart from the areas around Springbok, as indicated in figure 7.
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Figure 7 TDS Mapping in the Lower Orange Water Management Area
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Nitrates are a concern since they are a health risk (particularly to bottle fed
infants and livestock), and are water soluble and do not bind to the soil. Thus
they migrate very easily into ground water. The main source of nitrates in the
WMA is from agricultural fertilisers. Areas of intensive irrigated agriculture are
most at risk from pollution by nitrates, and these include areas along the Orange
River. There is an area of high nitrate concentration in the groundwater near
Garies and the surrounding area. Concentrations of between 50 mg/l and
greater than 200mg/l have been observed in the area (DWAF, 2004).
Pollution sources for the groundwater in the area are most likely to be from the
use of agricultural soil enhancers. It is also likely that most of these pollutants
enter the groundwater from agricultural activity in the Upper Orange Catchment.
(DWAF, 2004). Other sources of groundwater pollution are from poorly
managed sewer treatment works, landfill sites, on-site sanitation (mainly in
informal settlements), and mining activities. Additional sources of nitrates
include feedlots and dairy farms (Colvin et al, 2008).
In general, the NDM groundwater flow pattern is towards the coast and there is
usually little connection between surface water flows and groundwater aquifer.
This is mainly due to the lack of surface water in the Northern Cape generally
and in the NDM in particular (DWAF, 2004). However, this is an area of further
study and the comment above should be viewed with the appropriate caution.
The aquifers in the RLM, KMLM are currently at levels observed in 1990 and
boreholes sunk into these aquifers should have sustainable yields, if used within
their limits. An exception to this is the aquifer in Port Nolloth/MacDougalls Bay,
which is between 10 and 50m below levels observed in 1990 (DWAF, 2008).
Aquifers in the KLM are also generally at levels observed in 1990, however
boreholes in all the population centres i.e. Garies, Kamieskroon, Hondeklipbaai,
Koiingnaas, amongst others, exhibit levels that are between 5 to 50m lower than
those observed in 1990 (DWAF, 2008).
NKLM’s aquifers are generally at their natural levels, the baseline for which was
established in 1990. The area east of Concordia has limited groundwater
monitoring information, thus boreholes sunk in this area should be thoroughly
tested for yield and sustainability.
Wetlands are important for biodiversity conservation and should, as far as
possible, be protected and conserved. Services performed by wetlands are flood
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attenuation; trapping sediments, nutrients and pathogens and supporting high
levels of biodiversity. Wetlands can also serve as popular tourist attractions
(Bledzki, 2008).
The wetlands within the NDM (Figure 8) are mainly situated in the eastern part
of the District around Brandvlei. Some wetlands also feature north and east of
Kamieskroon; north and southeast of Garies; north and south of Hondeklipbaai;
north of Koiingnaas; and north of Kleinzee. Wetland areas are also registered
south of Alexander Bay; south of Lekkersing; near Port Nolloth; southeast of
MacDougalls Bay; north and south of Koiingnaas; north and south of
Hondeklipbaai; north and south of Kamieskroon; north and south of Garies; west
and south of Aggeneys; north and south of Loeriesfontein; north and south of
Niewoudtville; north, south and east of Calvinia; north and south of Williston;
north, north and southeast of Sutherland and southeast of Fraserburg.
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Figure 8 Wetlands, NDM.
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Wetlands in the Brandvlei area, in the east of the study, area are often used for
the planting of wheat (Plate 1). This is done to improve crop yields due to the
improved availability of water and to reduce the need for irrigation.
Plate 1 Wheat planting in Wetlands near Brandvlei
Given the low rainfall in the NDM and the consequent shortage of surface water
flows, wetlands in the NDM are generally used to support human activities.
Small livestock watering has been observed in wetlands in the Kamiesberg and
this practice, along with crop production is likely to affect all but the most
inaccessible wetlands.
4.1.5 Topography
The topography of the region is diverse and is characterised by mountainous
areas, ridges, steep slopes, undulating hills and plateaus, flat plains and coastal
dunes.
The eastern side of the NDM area forms the escarpment that is characterized by
the Kamiesberg Mountain range. The escarpment is followed by the hardveld or
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granitic uplands which feature to the west the Richtersveld National Park. The
coastal belt located west thereof is very narrow. The coastal plain is very
shallow and features a small coastline with no natural harbours.
The Kamiesberg Mountain Range lies from Garies in the south to Springbok in
the north. The Kamiesberg Mountain Range is characterised by various granite
rock formations and gneisses and steep and rocky scarp slopes, separated by
sandy plains. The area features rocky upland and sandy lowland areas. The
topography ranges from gently undulating to steeply rolling with large areas
featuring granitic boulders. The Kamiesberg region is characterised by unique
landscapes with unique rock formations. The diverse vegetation of the region is
largely supported by the Kamiesberg Mountain Range which represents an
important rain catchment (http://www.openafrica.org/route/kamiesberg-route).
The coastal belt is characterised by sandy dunes located north to northwest
from Alexander Bay to Port Nolloth, McDougall’s Bay and Hondeklipbaai.
Khai Ma Local Municipality is characterized by undulating landscapes. The
Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality features a flat undulating landscape. The
Hantam Local Municipality consists of undulating rocky plains in the east and
mountainous areas in the west. Kamiesberg Local Municipality consists of
mountainous areas as well as coastal areas with undulating coastal plains. The
Nama Khoi Local Municipality is characterized by coastal plains and granite hills
in the west and low lying Bushmanland plains to the east of Springbok. The
Richtersveld Municipality consists of a diverse geology including mountains,
lowlands and undulating hills. The landscape features low-lying coastal plains in
the west and the escarpment in the east (www.northerncape.org.za).
4.1.6 Soils
The NDM is characterised by considerable variation in the types of soils. The
area is characterised as semi-arid to arid and this indicates that the soil moisture
deficit is high. The soil characteristics over most of the area are a function of
insitu weathering.
The coastal areas are characterized by a dune landscape with deep red sandy
soils. Richtersveld is characterized by rocky soils which are more suited to crop
production than the soils of the rest of the NDM, but the unfavourable climatic
conditions and the steep mountainous topography make crop production non-
viable (NDM Economic Profile Report).
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NDM is characterized by generally poor quality soils due to scarce or no water
retaining capabilities. Due to the sandy nature of the soils within the region,
many areas in the District are prone to wind erosion when the natural vegetation
cover is disturbed. The erosion levels within an area depend on slopes’
steepness, rainfall patterns and land-use activities in the area. Soils on steep
gradients are subject to geological erosion. Extreme topography and soil
characteristics within the NDM indicate that soil erosion is an important factor
that limits development options (NDM Economic Profile Report).
The most significant negative impacts on soils are overgrazing and mining. The
marginal nature of the soils, combined with lower rain, makes the vegetation
vulnerable to overuse. Small livestock, such as goats and sheep crop the
vegetation close to the ground, further increasing the vulnerability. This
phenomenon is located mainly in the rural areas of the NDM, particularly the old
rural reserves. Areas around the following towns or areas are most affected:
Pella;
Komagas;
The Richtersveld Municipality;
Steinkopf;
Concordia and
Kamiesfontein.
In a similar vein, off-road recreational driving has the same impact on the natural
vegetation as small livestock. Large-scale evidence of habitat destruction due to
this activity has not been uncovered, but cognisance should be taken of the
issue.
4.1.7 Flora
The Succulent Karoo (winter rainfall system), the Nama Karoo (summer rainfall
system) and the Fynbos (Mediterranean climate) provide the NDM with a high
floral diversity. The Succulent Karroo, in particular, is one of two semi-arid
biodiversity hotspots in the world
(http://www.biodiversityhotspots.org/xp/hotspots/karoo/Pages/biodiversity.aspx).
Biodiversity is important for economic, cultural, aesthetic, scientific and
educational purposes. For example biodiversity conservation makes a variety of
genes available that can be used for food, materials and medicine (Young;
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1999). There are many threats to biodiversity, most as a direct or indirect result
of human interference, for example:
The introduction of invasive species;
Habitat loss due to destruction or degradation such as agriculture, mining
and urbanisation;
Overexploitation of species of interest; and
Climate change.
Vegetation has been divided into biomes and their associated vegetation units.
According to Mucina and Rutherford (2006) a biome is a “broad ecological
spatial unit...defined mainly by vegetation structure, climate as well as major
large-scale disturbance factors”. Nested within the biomes are the vegetation
units. A vegetation unit is a unit of plant communities that share similar climatic,
geological and soil requirements and consequently have similar management
and conservation requirements and the same potential uses.
The NDM has a rich biodiversity and there are several areas that government
and non-government organisations are conserving in order to preserve this
biodiversity. These areas include, but are by no means limited to:
The Orange River Mouth, a Ramsar wetland site;
The Richtersveld Community Conservancy, the centre of a World
Heritage Site. The Richtersveld Community Conservancy falls within the
Succulent Karoo Biodiversity Hotspot;
Namakwa National Park;
Goepag Nature Reserve;
Nababiep Nature Reserve;
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve;
Tankwa Karoo National Park; and
Richtersveld National Park.
The Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme (SKEP) is a bi-national initiative,
between South African and Namibia, with the aim of promoting the conservation
of biodiversity and sustainable land-use within the Succulent Karoo biodiversity
hotspot. Through a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process, nine
priority conservation areas were identified. All, or most, of five of these areas fall
within the NDM (Figure 9). The purpose of these priority areas is to expand the
protected area corridors through public, private and community partnerships
(SKEP; 2003).
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According to Turpie & Joubert (2004), the Bokkeveld Plateau is situated at the
interface between the Cape Floristic Region and the Succulent Karoo and has
high levels of endemism and plant biodiversity. During spring, the area attracts
tourists to view the wildflowers in bloom. Wildflower tourism has been suggested
as a means to protect the plant biodiversity of the region. It was estimated that
R2,35 million is spent annually in the area. According to the travel-cost analysis,
the average consumer surplus was R28 per person. On average, 37 per cent of
visitor enjoyment came from seeing expanses or carpets of flowers and 26 per
cent from seeing the variety of flowers. The average length of stay would be
reduced to 37 per cent of its original length if there were no flowers present. The
conjoint analysis showed that seeing carpets of flowers contributed by far the
most to the scores given to scenarios, as compared with seeing a variety of
species of flowers or bulbs. Biodiversity conservation will therefore depend on
marketing the biodiversity and other attributes of the area rather than relying on
the visual displays that are highly weather dependent.
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) is working closely with SKEP
in promoting biodiversity conservation in the Succulent Karoo. In 2003 the
Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund allocated $8 million over five years to
support civil society groups and conservation initiatives in the Succulent Karoo.
A key objective of which was to develop approaches that will promote local
community involvement with sustainable development and conservation projects
(CEPF; 2008).
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Figure 9 SKEP Priority Areas, NDM
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There are several biomes within the NDM, these are the:
Desert Biome;
Fynbos biome;
Nama Karoo biome;
Succulent Karoo biome; and
Azonal Vegetation types.
Table 5 below provides a general description on the location of the various
biome types within the District Municipality, the number of vegetation types as
well as the area each type encompasses.
Table 5 Biomes, vegetation types and area covered within the NDM (SANBI, 2006)
Biomes Area No. of Veg
Types Area (Ha)
Azonal Vegetation
Mainly Brandvlei; Williston;
Fraserburg; west and south of
Nieuwoudtville; east of Pofadder
and smaller areas around
Kleinzee; Hondeklipbaai and
Garies. Minimal occurrences
feature south of Alexander Bay
and Port Nolloth.
9 539 076
Desert Biome To the north, including Alexander
Bay and Pofadder. 15 707 039
Fynbos Biome
Niewoudtville and surrounds; north
and south of Calvinia; Sutherland
and surrounds; and smaller areas
south of Kleinzee; south of
Hondeklipbaai and south of
Kamieskroon.
12 663 854
Nama Karoo Biome Aggeneys; Brandvlei; Williston;
Fraserburg. 9 5 679 603
Succulent Karoo Biome
Port Nolloth; Steinkopf; Kleinzee;
Springbok; Hondeklipbaai;
Kamieskroon; Garies; Calvinia and
the south of Calvinia.
48 5 083 128
TOTAL 93 12 672 701
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Figure 10 Vegetation Map, NDM
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4.1.7.1 Hantam Local Municipality
According to the NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan (2009), the Hantam Local
Municipality is regarded world-wide as a centre for bulb endemism and
consequently the vegetation and vegetation types are highly diverse.
The Hantam Local Municipality has 10 vegetation types that are endemic
to the region. The Vanrhynsdorp Gannabosveld and Bokkeveld Sandstone
Fynbos are classified as vulnerable. The Nieuwoudtville Shale
Renosterveld is endemic to the Local Municipality and is classified as
endangered (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft, 2009).
Table 6 below shows the biomes and vegetation types found within the
Hantam Local Municipality. The status of the vegetation unit is in relation to
its conservation status in South Africa.
Table 6: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Hantam Local Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal
Vegetation
Bushmanland Vloere Least threatened
Namakwaland Riviere Least threatened
Tanqua Wash Riviere Least threatened
Fynbos Bokkeveld Sandstone Fynbos Vulnerable
Hantam Plateau Dolerite Renosterveld Least threatened
Nieuwoudtville Shale Renosterveld Endangered
Niewoudville-Roggeveld Dolerite
Renosterveld
Least threatened
Roggeveld Shale Renosterveld Least threatened
Vanrhynsdorp Shale Renosterveld Least threatened
Nama Karoo Bushmanland Arid Grassland Least threatened
Bushmanland Basin Shrubland Least threatened
Upper Karoo Hardeveld Least threatened
Western Upper Karoo Least threatened
Succulent Agter-Sederberg Shrubland Least threatened
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Biome Vegetation Type Status
Karoo Doringrivier Quartzite Karoo Least threatened
Hantam Karoo Least threatened
Kamiesberg Mountains Shrubland Least threatened
Knersvlakte Shale Vygieveld Least threatened
Namakwaland Arid Grassland -
Namakwaland Blomveld -
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland Least threatened
Northern Knersvlakte Vygieveld Least threatened
Roggeveld Karoo Least threatened
Tanqua Escarpment Shrubland Least threatened
Tanqua Karoo Least threatened
Vanrhynsdorp Gannabosveld Vulnerable
Western Bushmanland Klipveld
Least threatened
Fifty- eight percent of the Bokkeveld Sandstone Fynbos occurs within the
Hantam Local Municipality. This vegetation is estimated to be 60% - 80%
transformed.
4.1.7.2 Kamiesberg Local Municipality
To the north of the town of Garies, the Kamiesberg Local Municipality
contains the Kamiesberg centre of endemism, a biodiversity hotspot (NDM
Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft, 2008).
The Kamiesberg Granite Fynbos is restricted to the Kamiesberg Uplands.
This vegetation type has 29 plant species that are either restricted to, or
primarily found within, the vegetation type.
This Local Municipality contains 48 known endemic species, 11 threatened
species and 9 near threatened species. More endemics are found within
the mountainous areas of this Municipality, 19 species within the
Kamiesberg Granite Fynbos and 15 in the Namakwaland Klipkoppe
Shrubland.
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Table 7 below indicates the vegetation types and their status within the
Kamiesberg Local Municipality.
Table 7: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Kamiesberg Local Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal Vegetation Bushmanland Vloere Least threatened
Namakwaland Riviere Least threatened
Arid Estuarine Salt Marshes Least threatened
Namakwaland Salt Pans Least threatened
Namakwaland Seashore Vegetation -
Fynbos Kamiesberg Granite Fynbos Least threatened
Namakwaland Granite Renosterveld Vulnerable
Namakwaland Sand Fynbos Least threatened
Nama Karoo Bushmanland Arid Grassland Least threatened
Succulent Karoo Kamiesberg Mountains Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Arid Grassland -
Namakwaland Blomveld -
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Coastal Duneveld -
Namakwaland Heuweltjieveld -
Namakwaland Inland Duneveld Least threatened
Namakwaland Strandveld -
Platbakkies Succulent Shrubland Not protected (Endemic)
Riethuis-Wallekraal Quartz Vygieveld -
Western Bushmanland Klipveld
Least threatened
4.1.7.3 Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality
The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality contains of 14 vegetation types
with 3 endemic species, 10 threatened species and 4 near threatened
species. The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality also features a large
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variety of endemic bulb species such as the critically endangered and
endemic rye grass Secale strictum subsp. africanum. Another important
species is Daubenis (Daubenya aurea) which is classified as vulnerable.
Roggeveld Koekoemakranka (Gethyllis roggeveldensis) is found only
within the Karoo Hoogland District Municipality but there is limited
information regarding its habitat (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft,
2008).
Table 8 below indicates the vegetation types and their status within the
Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality.
Table 8: Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Karoo Hoogland Local
Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal Vegetation Bushmanland Vloere Least threatened
Tanqua Wash Riviere Least threatened
Fynbos Central Mountain Shale Renosterveld Least threatened
Niewoudville-Roggeveld Dolerite
Renosterveld
Least threatened
Roggeveld Shale Renosterveld Least threatened
Nama Karoo Bushmanland Basin Shrubland Least threatened
Eastern Upper Karoo Least threatened
Gamka Karoo Least threatened
Upper Karoo Hardeveld Least threatened
Western Upper Karoo Least threatened
Succulent Karoo
Koedoesberge-Moordenaars Karoo Least threatened
Roggeveld Karoo Least threatened
Tanqua Escarpment Shrubland Least threatened
Tanqua Karoo
Least threatened
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4.1.7.4 Khai-Ma Local Municipality
Khai Ma Local Municipality is characterized by desert grasslands and
inselbergs; ancient rocky outcrops. The region contains numerous rare
habitat types including the fine grain quartz patches featuring special dwarf
succulents.
The Khai Ma Local Municipality contains 11 vegetation types of which 3
are entirely endemic and one endangered, the Lower Gariep Alluvial
Vegetation. There are 854 recorded plant species with 41 endemic species
(i.e. Conophytum ratum and Trachyandra species), 20 potentially endemic
species, 5 threatened species and 3 Near Threatened species. Some of
the local plant species include Conopithum burgheri (Burger’s onion),
Lithops dorotheae (Pella se bababoudtjie) and Pachypodium
namakwanum (halfmens). The bushmanland inselbergs have 429 plant
species with 67 only found in the inselbergs and 87 red listed species
(NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft, 2008).
Table 9 below indicates the biomes and vegetation types within the Khai-
Mai Local Municipality.
Table 9 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Khai - Ma Local Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal Vegetation Lower Gariep Alluvial Vegetation Endangered
Bushmanland Vloere Least threatened
Desert Eastern Gariep Plains Desert -
Eastern Gariep Rocky Desert -
Nama Karoo Blouputs Karroid Thornveld Least threatened
Bushmanland Arid Grassland Least threatened
Bushmanland Basin Shrubland Least threatened
Bushmanland Sandy Grassveld Least threatened
Lower Gariep Broken Veld Least threatened
Succulent Karoo Aggeneys Gravel Vygieveld Least threatened
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Biome Vegetation Type Status
Bushmanland Inselberg Shrubland
Threatened
4.1.7.5 Nama Koi Local Municipality
The Nama Khoi Local Municipality contains 37 vegetation types of which
23 are endemic; this indicates the high degree of diversity in the region.
The Aggeneys Gravel Vygieveld contains 17 endemic species and the
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland 15 species. The endemic vegetation
species includes amongst others, the critically endangered Eselore
(Cheiridopsis peculiaris), Komaggas camelthorn forest (Acacia erioloba)
and Komaggas Aloe (Aloe striata subsp. komaggasensis) listed as
vulnerable (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft, 2008).
Table 10 indicates the biomes and their associated vegetation units within
the Nama Koi Local Municipality.
Table 10 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Nama Koi Local Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal Vegetation Arid Estuarine Salt Marshes Least threatened
Lower Gariep Alluvial Vegetation Endangered
Namakwaland Salt Pans Least threatened
Desert Eastern Gariep Plains Desert -
Eastern Gariep Rocky Desert -
Helskloof Canyon Desert Least threatened
Kahams Mountain Desert Least threatened
Northern Nababiepsberge Mountain
Desert
Least threatened
Southern Nababiepsberge Mountain
Desert
Least threatened
Fynbos Namakwaland Granite Renosterveld Vulnerable
Namakwaland Sand Fynbos Least threatened
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Biome Vegetation Type Status
Nama Karoo Bushmanland Arid Grassland Least threatened
Bushmanland Sandy Grassland Least threatened
Succulent Karoo Aggenys Gravel Vygieveld Least threatened
Anenous Plateau Shrubland Least threatened
Bushmanland Inselberg Shrubland Threatened
Eenriet Plains Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Kamiessberg Mountains Shrubland Least threatened
Kosiesberg Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Arid Grassland -
Namakwaland Blomveld -
Namakwaland Coastal Duneveld -
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Shale Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Strandveld -
Reithuis-Wallekraal Quartz Vygieveld -
Rooiberg Quartz Vygieveld Not protected
(Endemic)
Southern Richtersveld Inselberg
Shrubland
Least threatened
Southern Richtersveld Scorpionstailveld Least threatened
Umdaus Mountains Succulent Shrubland
Least threatened
4.1.7.6 Richtersveld Local Municipality
The Richtersveld Local Municipality contains 41 vegetation types of which
34 are endemic. This indicates that there is a high degree of vegetation
diversity in the region. The Richtersveld Coastal Duneveld and the Namib
Coastal Vegetation are classified as vulnerable and the Lower Gariep
Alluvial Vegetation is listed as endangered. The Namib Lichen Fields and
the Alexander Bay Coastal Duneveld are critically endangered. The
Richtersveld Local Municipality contains the largest and the most varied
types of endemic species such as the endangered Baster kokerboom (Aloe
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pillansii); Halfmens (Pachypodium namakwanum) and the Window plant
(Fenestraria rhodophylla subsp. aurantiacum). There are approximately
200 plant species endemic to the Richtersveld Local Municipality (NDM
Biodiversity Sector Plan Draft, 2008).
The biomes and vegetation types within the Richtersveld Local Municipality
are provided in Table 11 below.
Table 11 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the Richtersveld Local Municipality
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal
Vegetation
Arid Estuarine Salt Marshes Least threatened
Lower Gariep Alluvial Vegetation Endangered
Namakwaland Salt Pans Least threatened
Namakwaland Seashore Vegetation -
Namib Seashore Vegetation Vulnerable
Desert Alexander Bay Coastal Duneveld Critically
endangered
Kahams Mountain Desert Least threatened
Kwaggarug Mountain Desert Least threatened
Namib Lichen Fields Critically
endangered
Noms Mountain Desert Least threatened
Richtersberg Mountain Desert Least threatened
Richtersveld Sheet Wash Desert Least threatened
Southern Nababiepsberge Mountain Desert Least threatened
Western Gariep Hills Desert - (Endemic)
Western Gariep Lowland Desert - (Endemic)
Western Gariep Plains Desert - (Endemic)
Fynbos Stinkfonteinberge Quartzite Fynbos Least threatened
Succulent Karoo Central Richtersveld Mountain Shrubland Least threatened
Die Plate Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Goariep Mountain Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
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Biome Vegetation Type Status
Kosiesberg Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Lekkersing Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Coastal Duneveld - (Endemic)
Namakwaland Heuweltjieveld - (Endemic)
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Strandveld -
Northern Richtersveld Scorpionstailveld Least threatened
Northern Richtersveld Yellow Duneveld Least threatened
Oograbies Plains Sandy Grassland Least threatened
Richtersveld Coastal Duneveld Vulnerable
Richtersveld Red Duneveld Least threatened
Richtersveld Sandy Coastal Scorpionstailveld Least threatened
Rooiberg Quartz Vygieveld Not protected
(Endemic)
Rosyntjieberg Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Southern Richtersveld Inselberg Shrubland Least threatened
Southern Richtersveld Scorpionstailveld Least threatened
Southern Richterveld Yellow Duneveld Least threatened
Stinkfonteinberge Eastern Apron Shrubland Least threatened
Tatasberg Mountain Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Upper Annisvlakte Succulent Shrubland Least threatened
Vyftienmyl se Berge Succulent Shrubland
- (Endemic)
4.1.7.7 District Management Area (DMA)
The District Municipality manages an area that does not form part of the six
Local Municipalities.
The biomes within the DMA and their associated vegetation types are
provided in
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Table 12.
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Table 12 Biomes and Vegetation Types within the DMA
Biome Vegetation Type Status
Azonal Vegetation Bushmanland Vloere Least threatened
Tanqua Wash Riviere Least threatened
Fynbos Swartruggens Quartzite Fynbos Least threatened
Nama Karoo Bushmanland Arid Grassland Least threatened
Bushmanland Basin Shrubland Least threatened
Bushmanland Sandy Grassland Least threatened
Succulent Karoo Agter-Sederberg Shrubland Least threatened
Namakwaland Blomveld -
Namakwaland Klipkoppe Shrubland Least threatened
Platbakkies Succulent Shrubland Not protected
(Endemic)
Swartruggens Quartzite Karoo Least threatened
Tanqua Karoo Least threatened
Western Bushmanland Klipveld Least threatened
The following photographs are examples of the flora found within the NDM.
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Plate 2: The lichen field at Alexander Bay, Richtersveld Local Municipality.
The lichen field (Plate 2) is classed as Critically Endangered (NDM Biodiversity
Sector Plan, 2008)
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Plate 3: Conophytum burgeri near Aggeneys
The Conophytum burgeri (Plate 3) is located within the Khai Ma Local
Municipality (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2008)
Plate 4: Protea namaquana (Critically Endangered)
The Protea namaquana (Plate 4), which is considered as Critically endangered,
is located within the Kamiesberg Local Municipality (NDM Biodiversity Sector
Plan, 2008)
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Plate 5: Spring flowering bulbs near Nieuwoudtville
The spring flowering bulbs (Plate 5) near Nieuwoudtville are located within the
Hantam Local Municipality (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2008).
The comments made about overgrazing and the potential impacts of
recreational off-road driving made in Section 4.1.6, holds true for this section.
Ecological supporting areas are defined as areas that allow fauna and flora to
travel from one part of a natural area to another. These ecological supporting
areas provide shelter, food and protection of indigenous vegetation. Ecological
supporting areas can help maintain the long-term survival of the species
following local disturbances and habitat fragmentation. Ecological supporting
areas in NDM, according to SANParks are indicated in Table 13.
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Table 13 SANParks Ecological supporting areas, NDM.
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4.1.8 Fauna
The NDM has a rich biodiversity, it contains all, or the majority of, five of the nine
Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Programme’s geographic priority areas. The
majority of these five areas are outside of formally protected areas, therefore in
order to conserve these areas, favourable land-use practices must be
implemented (Todd et. al; 2009).
There are several threats to the District Municipality’s biodiversity (Todd et. al.,
2009), these include:
Livestock grazing;
Mining and crop growing;
Illegal plants and reptiles collection;
Alien invasive plants;
Climate change and
Unsustainable water abstraction.
These threats may result in habitat transformation and local extinctions (Todd et.
al., 2009). A Provincial Development Initiative and hence an initiative the District
Municipality must strive to uphold, is to conserve and protect, by 2014, 6.5% of
the biodiversity.
In addition to its terrestrial biodiversity, the Namakwa coast is adjacent to one of
the richest and most prolific marine eco-systems in the world (DTI, 2008).
The Succulent Karoo is a biodiversity hotspot. There are 115 reptile species, 36
of which are endemic. The majority of the reptile species are lizards. There are
70 recorded lizard species, 30 of these are endemic. Four of the recorded 38
snake species are endemic. There are eight tortoise species in the Succulent
Karoo hotspot and three of these species are endemic. Of the 17 recorded frog
species, five are endemic, this includes the Desert Rain Frog (Breviceps
macrops). Eighteen out of the 70 scorpion species are endemic. There are also
several insect groups with high endemism; Monkey Beetles (Rutelinae: Hoplini),
wasps and various specialised bees. The Namakwa Pollen Wasp (Ceramius
rex) is confined to small refuge populations. There are 269 recorded bird
species and 24 are near-endemic. There are 78 mammal species including four
small endemic mammals (SKEP, 2003).
The Succulent Karoo and Nama Karoo provide habitats for the Riverine Rabbit
(Bunolagus monticularis). The Riverine Rabbit is endemic to the semi-arid Great
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Karoo and parts of the Klein Karoo, and is Critically Endangered. The Riverine
Rabbit is a habitat specialist that occupies the discontinuous and dense
vegetation associated with the seasonal rivers of the Karoo. These areas along
the rivers are however favoured for livestock grazing and crop growing (EWT,
2010).
The mouth of the Orange River is within the Richtersveld Local Municipality. The
wetland at the mouth of the Orange River forms an important stop over for a
great variety of migratory birds and has accordingly been declared a Ramsar
site. The endemic Barlow's Lark, a must for any birder, is also found along the
riverbanks, along with smooth pebbles and semi-precious stones for rock and
gemstone enthusiasts. Unfortunately this wetland is currently under major threat
from several sources including reduced flow and desertification, but efforts are
underway to restore this wetland. Also of interest are fields of green and orange
lichen growing on a hill near the turnoff of the town. These lichen fields are soon
to be declared a national monument (DALREC, 2003).
The fauna that inhabits the Khai Ma Local Municipality include, amongst others,
the endemic Red Lark which occurs in the Koa River Valley. It is also expected
that a wide variety of unique invertebrates are found in the area especially the
south-facing slopes of the inselbergs and kloofs that have a much more
moderated micro-climate. The aquatic pans in the region provide habitat for
wading birds when inundated.
The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality provides habitat for the critically
endangered Riverine Rabbit and the endangered Visagie’s Golden Mole which
is unique to the area. These species are amongst the ten most threatened
species in the country. Local fauna also includes the rare nomadic lark species,
indigenous fish species, amphibians, various species of birds, as well as a wide
variety of insects such as bees, wasps and beetles (NDM Biodiversity Sector
Plan, 2008).
The fauna that inhabits the Hantam Local Municipality includes a variety of small
fauna such as, amphibians; indigenous fish species, various species of birds
such as the blue crane and the black harrier and a variety of insects such as
monkey beetles, bees and wasps.
The fauna that inhabits the Richtersveld Local Municipality includes the
klipspringer, grey reebok, steenbok, duiker, springbok and gemsbok,
Hartmann’s mountain zebra, baboon, vervet monkey, caracal (Plate 6), black-
backed jackal (Plate 8), black-footed cat, brown hyena, leopard; Cape clawless
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otter, the De Winton’s golden mole (occuring in the sand dunes of Port Nolloth)
and the Namakwa dune molerat. A variety of birds feature within the
Richtersveld Local Municipality along the river courses including the Barlows
lark, the Cape long-billed lark, the red lark, the Karoo scrub robin, the Namakwa
prinia and the damera tern. The area also features a variety of insect types
(i.e.scorpions, beetles, bees and wasps); reptiles including a variety of lizard
species and snakes (i.e. the Namakwa dwarf adder and the desert mountain
adder – both endemic) and frogs (i.e. the Namakwa rain frog - endemic; the
marbled rubber frog and the paradise toad). Fish species include the Namakwa
barb, the small mouth yellow fish, the large mouth yellow fish and Orange River
mudfish (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2008).
Plate 6 Felis caracal
(http://ekapa.ioisa.org.za/module6/Reserves/images/species/Caracal.
jpg)
Plate 7 Cephalopus sp (http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife)
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Plate 8 Canis mesomelas (http://www.sa-
venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_jackal.htm)
Plate 9 Raphicerus campestris (http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife)
Plate 10 Panthera pardus (http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife)
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Plate 11 Cercopithecus aethiops (http://www.sa-
venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_vmonkey.htm)
Plate 12 Anthropoides paradiseus (Source: SANBI)
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Plate 13 Sagittarius serpentarius (Source: SANBI)
Domestic animals within the NDM include sheep, goats, cattle, horses and
donkeys. Stock farming is one of the major economic sectors within the NDM
and it includes sheep, goat and cattle farming. Horses and donkeys are used for
agricultural activities and as a mode of transport by the local people. Karoo
Hoogland and Hantam Local Municipalities are the main agricultural centres
where stock farming is the main economic activity.
4.1.9 Coastal Areas
The Namakwa Coastline extends over three municipalities – Kamiesberg, Nama
Khoi and Richtersveld – and stretches over a length of approximately 313
kilometres. This coastline is also referred to as the Diamond Coast due to the
abundant diamond deposits found in this region. The coast of NDM is rich in
marine resources and the coastal and offshore environments have had a
significant impact on the development of these areas as well as on the ability of
the local residents to use these resources for financial, subsistence and
recreational benefits.
Large sections of the coastline have been transformed through diamond mining
and the remainder of this section will review the most important aspects
applicable to the Namakwa coast.
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The coastline is very active and the cold water current makes the average sea
temperatures lower than most tourists would accept. Hence the coastline is a
generally unfriendly environment for recreational swimming.
Biodiversity
The coastal zone south of the Orange River and to the Olifants River, 30
kilometres wide contains the so-called “Strandveld Coastal Zone”. In the north of
this zone the rainfall is lower than in the south, with 50mm being the norm near
Port Nolloth and 150mm being the annual average near Papendorp, overlooking
the Olifants River Estuary (which is not within the NDM).
This coast includes some 432 terrestrial plant species of which 85 are unique to
the Succulent Karoo Hotspot and 44 of which are classified as globally
threatened.
The Strandveld Coastal Zone has four distinctive flora types (de Beers, 2008):
Short Strandveld;
Tall Strandveld;
Strandveld Dune Field
Grassy Sandveld.
Vegetation in all of these types is sparse and scrubby and well adapted to
limited moisture. The coastal zone experiences strong winds in summer which
limits the growth potential of the vegetation. They are sensitive to disturbance.
Agricultural potential of the Strandveld is poor but the annual flower displays
are, potentially, important tourist attractions. The Grassy Sandveld provides
forage for, amongst others, springbok and gemsbok. The largest carnivore in the
area is the brown hyena (de Beers, 2008).
SANParks intends to gazette a marine protected area and is acquiring private
land to establish the proposed Namakwa Coastal Park as well as the
biodiversity conservation corridor between it and the existing Namakwa National
Park in the vicinity of Kamieskroon.
Mining
The Namakwa coast mining activities are dominated by two mining houses –
Alexkor and De Beers Namakwaland (Pty) Ltd. Diamond mining houses control
the majority of the Namakwa coastal areas. This restricts public access to
coastal resources and, being a dominant employer, influences the lives of
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people in the area to a large extent. Opportunities for local economic
development have been limited and physical infrastructure of the area is poorly
developed and those that do exist are mostly related to mining use.
Alexkor operates from the Orange River mouth to just south of Port Nolloth,
while De Beers operates from Alexkor’s border to slightly north of the Olifants
River. In addition to the onshore concessions, the diamond companies also hold
concessions for offshore diamond mining. This has implications for fishing.
Due to the fact that both companies are national and international entities
respectively, the benefits of these companies are limited to local employment,
taxes and secondary economic opportunities that develop around the mining
operations.
Both operations are scaling down. Alexkor has curtailed all land-based
operations and is now concentrating on marine mining. De Beers is mainly also
mining on the coastal shelf, after alluvial diamond mining activities were
suspended in December 2009. A date for the resumption of these activities has
not been set.
Smaller operators will continue in the area until all the resources have been
exhausted. The most significant newcomer will be the joint venture between the
Richtersveld Community and Alexkor, the so-called Pooling and Sharing Joint
Venture. This joint venture was formed after the Richtersveld Community won a
land claim over the area and all land mining operations will be transferred to the
joint venture. Alexkor will retain its marine mining rights. Trans Hex has a small
operation in Port Nolloth, but this seems to be secondary to their lower Orange
River operations. Trans Hex terminated all their marine diamond mining
activities in 2008.
The transformation of the coastline due to diamond mining activities is dramatic.
This transformation has affected the entire Coastal Protection Zone, along a
large percentage of the NDM coastline, as can be seen from the Google Earth
images shown below.
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Plate 14 Coastal Transformation – 63km south of Alexander Bay
Plate 14 shows alluvial diamond mining activities 63 kilometres south of
Alexander Bay, in Alexkor’s mining area. What is shown is a network of haul
roads, spoil and processing heaps and access tracks into the dune areas of the
beach and into the high and low water marks. This activity is typical of the
activity between Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth. The plate15 below shows
some of the most intensive activity and transformation.
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Plate 15 Coastal Transformation – 20km south of Alexander Bay
The plate above (Plate 15) shows a processing complex near Collins Harbour.
The perimeter of the dam south of Collin’s Harbour comes within 50 meters of
the wave zone of the coastline in this area.
These plates serve to demonstrate the degree of transformation that has taken
place in the northern sections of the coastline. It is presumed that a
rehabilitation operation, funded by Alexkor, will accompany the final closure of
this mine.
The Plate 16 shows the alluvial diamond mining activity undertaken by De Beers
Namakwaland around Kleinzee, about 50 kilometres south of Port Nolloth.
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Plate 16 Coastal Transformation – 50km south of Port Nolloth, Kleinzee
The transformation of the Coastal Protected Zones in the area show is total, and
although this is the highest area of impact between Port Nolloth and Kleinzee,
visible evidence of diamond mining activity is clear along this entire distance.
Other areas which exhibit large areas of disturbance are Koiingnaas, and
Hondeklipbaai, which is shown in the Plate 17 below.
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Plate 17 Coastal Transformation – Hondeklipbaai
The remaining length of coastline is less heavily impacted, with the Plate 18
showing the level of impacts near Skurfbaai, which is 8 kilometres north of the
end of the NDM coastline.
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Plate 18 Coastal Transformation – Skurfbaai
Here transformation, when viewed at this scale, is limited to access roads and
the occasional small diggings.
Fishing and mari/agriculture
Fisheries along the NDM coast benefit from the presence of the Benguela
Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME). It is estimated that the BCLME is
one of the most productive ocean areas in the world and an important centre of
marine biodiversity and marine food production (Northern Cape Province -
Fishing and Mariculture Sector Development Strategy).
In theory, this abundance of marine and coastal resources could stimulate a
successful fishing and mariculture industry. However, due to the relative under-
development of the coastal infrastructure, insufficient fish quotas, distance from
markets and lack of access to the coast, this aspect has been developed only to
a small extent.
Despite this, the coastal towns of Port Nolloth and Hondeklipbaai have
developed as regional fishing nodes and in both localities existing infrastructure,
resource allocations, and levels of skills amongst local communities are
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sufficient to sustain the fishing industry, albeit at a relatively low level of
development.
The lack of a safe deep-water harbor is a major constraint to the development of
the fishing industry in NDM. The town of Port Nolloth possesses a shallow water
harbor but the absence of a man-made breakwater means that the harbor is
exposed to a strong current and swells during storms when access to the harbor
is severely limited. The town of Hondeklipbaai has sheltered launching and a
jetty suitable for small vessels in close proximity to the disused Oceana fish
processing factory. Access to this town is however poor.
The only facility currently capable of operating as a fish processing facility is the
John Ovenstone factory in Port Nolloth developed in the 1930’s by the Premier
Group. It has a capacity of 3000t of fish a year and is currently completely
unutilized (Northern Cape Province - Fishing and Mariculture Sector
Development Strategy). During 1995 it was upgraded to Hazard Analysis Critical
Control Point (HACCP) health standards for the export of fresh fish during the
hake long-line experiment. Due to the low quota allocation, and the fact that no
other fish has been landed in Port Nolloth recently, the factory has been running
at a loss and Premier Fishing withdrew from the area in 2002.
As a consequence of the fact that fishing and the processing of fish has taken
place at Port Nolloth and Hondeklipbaai for many years, a well developed skills
base exists in the industry. In addition, recent transformation of the fishing
industry in line with government’s policies for small, medium and micro
enterprise development and black economic empowerment has also seen the
emergence of black-owned businesses in the industry in Port Nolloth.
The Namakwa Coast is a high-energy coastline with few sheltered bays and is
therefore not conducive to in-sea mariculture. The only possible exception is the
deep-water bay at Buchuberg where the use of the high-seas cages could be
evaluated for the farming of salmon or other high-value fish species. Buchuberg
Bay is characterised by very deep water (30 meters within one kilometre of the
shore) and is sheltered from the prevailing westerly swell (Northern Cape
Province - Fishing and Mariculture Sector Development Strategy).
Tourism
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Tourism is not widely practised on the coastal areas of NDM. This can be
ascribed to the limited access to coastal areas, due to diamond mining activities,
and the distances from main areas.
An opportunity exists for the possible development of the Namakwa Coastal
Park, as mentioned above, to develop coastal areas for tourism and recreational
facilities. This will contribute to job creation and reduce the dependence of these
settlements on the mining industry as dominant employer.
4.2 Social Environment
4.2.1 Municipal Setting
The NDM covers the largest area (approximately
126 747km2) of all South African District Municipalities. Two national roads, the
N7 (between Western Cape and Namibia) and N14 (between Springbok,
Upington and Gauteng) pass through the District. The seat of governance of the
NDM is in Springbok (NMD annual report, 2008/9).
The NDM (DC06) comprises of the following municipalities with the main centre
as indicated:
Richtersveld Municipality (NC061) - Port Nolloth;
Nama Khoi Municipality (NC062) – Springbok;
Khai Ma Municipality (NC067) – Pofadder;
Kamiesberg Municipality (NC064) – Garies;
Hantam Municipality (NC065) – Calvinia;
Karoo Hoogland Municipality (NC066) – Williston; and
District Management Area, DMA, (NCDMA06).
The DMA is a largely un-inhabited area 24 428 km2 is extent. The population in
this area numbers 897, which gives a population density of 0.04 persons per
square kilometre.
Average population density for the Northern Cape Province is 2.9 per square
kilometre, whilst the average for South Africa is 40 persons per square
kilometre, forty times the population density of the NDM.
Richtersveld Local Municipality includes various towns such as Sanddrif,
Kuboes, Alexander Bay, Eksteenfontein, Lekkersing, MacDougalls Bay and
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Baken, with the largest being Port Nolloth (Figure 11). The Municipality features
four wards with eight councillors. The area covers 9 607kms2 with a total
population estimated at 14 613 people. Population density is thus 1.5 people per
square kilometre. The majority of the population lives in the towns of Alexander
Bay and Port Nolloth, both located on the coast. The population living outside
the urban areas is very sparse and consists of scattered sheep and goat
herders (Community Survey, 2007).
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Figure 11 Municipal Setting: Richtersveld Local Municipality
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Port Nolloth, situated along the West Coast is a small-scale diamond mining and
crayfish industry centre as well as a tourist resort. Alexander Bay and Baken are
the main mining centres for alluvial diamond mining. Alexander Bay features a
shopping centre, banking facilities and numerous sporting facilities, however
these facilities need upgrading. Baken, a very small town adjacent to Sanddrif
has a number of facilities and social infrastructures such as a clinic, shop and
restaurant. Small scale harbours feature at Port Nolloth and Alexander Bay.
Nama Khoi Local Municipality includes towns such as Kleinzee, Komaggas,
Steinkopf and Nababeep with the largest being the towns of Springbok,
Concordia and O’kiep. Springbok is located along the N7 Highway and is in
close proximity to the border of Namibia and South Africa. Nama Khoi is
considered the hub of the NDM in terms of economic activities and population
(Figure 12). The Nama Khoi area covers 15 025 kms2 and the population is
estimated at 54 644 people. Population density is thus 3.6 people per square
kilometre (Community Survey, 2007). Springbok is the administrative,
commercial, farming and industrial centre. Springbok was the first commercial
mining operations centre where the first copper mine was developed. O’kiep and
Nababeep are copper mining towns. Steinkopf is a small stock sheep farming
town.
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Figure 12 Municipal Setting: Nama Khoi Local Municipality
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Khai Ma Local Municipality includes various towns with the largest being the
towns of Pofadder and Aggeneys (Figure 13). Khai Ma Local Municipality has
the smallest land cover of all the local municipalities within the NDM with an
area of 8 331km2 and has a population of approximately 12 571 people.
Population density is thus 1.5 people per square kilometre (Community Survey,
2007). Pofadder is situated on the N14 Highway between Springbok and
Kakamas is situated between Pofadder and Keimoes. Other towns within the
Khai Ma Local Municipality include Goodhouse, Pella and Onseepkans.
Pofadder is a sheep farming centre. Located on the Springbok-Pofadder road,
Aggeneys is a copper, zinc and lead mining town.
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Figure 13 Municipal Setting: Khai Ma Local Municipality
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Kamiesberg Local Municipality has Hondeklipbaai, Garies and Kamieskroon as
the largest towns (Figure 14). The area covers 11 742km2 and has a population
of approximately 12 117 people. Population density is thus 1.0 people per
square kilometre (Community Survey, 2007). The area is sparsely populated at
about one person per km2. Kamiesberg Local Municipality is located in Garies.
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Figure 14 Municipal Setting: Kamiesberg Local Municipality
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The Kamiesberg Local Municipality is divided into four municipal wards and
provides services to the towns and settlements of Camasses, Rooifontein,
Nourivier, Leliefontein, Paulshoek, (Ward 4), Kamieskroon, Kharkams,
Tweerivier (Ward 3) Koiingnaas, Hondeklipbaai, Soebatsfontein, Spoegrivier
(Ward 1) Garies, Lepelfontein, Klipfontein and Kheis (Ward 2).
Hondeklipbaai is a seaside town and has a harbour which serves fishing and
diamond-mining boats. It is also a mariculture (i.e. crayfish) and tourist centre
(i.e. scenic drives and 4 x 4 routes). Garies and Kamieskroon situated along the
N7 Highway are known for their abundance of spring wildflowers. Kleinzee is a
mining town for alluvial diamonds. Kamieskroon, Kharkams and Paulshoek are
tourist destinations.
Hantam Local Municipality has Calvinia, Niewoudtville and Loeriesfontein as the
main towns (Figure 15). Smaller towns in the region include Brandvlei and
Middelpos. The area covers 27 967 km2 and has a population of approximately
21 234 people. Population density is thus 0.8 people per square kilometre
(Community Survey, 2007). Hantam Local Municipality has the greatest number
of rural households.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 85
Figure 15 Municipal Setting: Hantam Local Municipality
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 86
Calvinia has a local airport with a 1 250m long landing strip and the town is
considered to be the second largest wool-producing district in South Africa and
is also known for its spring wildflower shows. Nieuwoudtville is a farming (i.e
rooibos plantations) and tourist town known for its wild flowers and is referred to
as the “Bulb Capital of the World”. Loeriesfontein is a wool-production centre as
well as a salt-mining town (http://www.sa-
meanders.co.za/pubphp/region.php?lang=eng&x_reg_id=89).
Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality has Sutherland, Williston and Fraserburg as
the main towns (Figure 16). The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality has the
biggest land area of all the local municipalities within the NDM. It covers an area
of 29 396 km2 and has a population of approximately 10 419 people (Community
Survey, 2007). Population density is thus 0.4 people per square kilometre.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 87
Figure 16 Municipal Setting: Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 88
Sutherland is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory and is known
for its excellent visibility of the stars (http://www.saao.ac.za/). It is also an
important wool and mutton producing centre. Williston is known as a sheep
farming centre and is home to the Tombstone Route. Fraserburg is a
commercial farming and tourist destination town.
4.2.2 Demographic Profile
The NDM covers the largest area of all South African District Municipalities. It
features scattered human settlements with a population of approximately 126
000 people (Figure 17). The majority of the population is located in urban areas
with approximately 55% within the Richtersveld and Nama Khoi Local
Municipalities (Community Survey, 2007).
The NDM which was previously characterised by mainly rural settlements
experienced a rapid urbanization between the 1996 and the 2001 census.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
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Figure 17 Namakwa Demarcation Population Centres, NDM.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 90
The population centres within the NDM are presented in the table 14 below.
Table 14 Population Centres, NDM.
Municipality Population Centres
Richtersveld
Kuboes
Alexander Bay
Port Nolloth
MacDougalls Bay
Lekkersing
Eksteenfontein
Nama Khoi
Springbok
Nababeep
Vioolsdrif
Kleinzee
Komaggas
Steinkopf
Khai Ma
Onseepkans
Pofadder
Aggeneys
Pella
Kamiesberg
Koiingnaas
Kamieskroon
Kharkams
Hondeklipbaai
Garies
Paulshoek
Kheis
Soebatsfontein
Tweerivier
Hantam
Niewoudtville
Calvinia
Loeriesfontein
Brandvlei
Middelpos
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 91
Municipality Population Centres
Karoo Hoogland
Williston
Sutherland
Fraserburg
Table 15 Number of individuals by urban / non urban
Municipality Urban Non-Urban Total
Hantam 14 609 5 204 19 813
Kamiesberg 8 495 2 257 10 752
Karoo
Hoogland 7 169 3 344 10 513
Khai-Ma 7 309 4 034 11 343
Nama Khoi 41 380 3 367 44 747
Richtersveld 9 567 556 10 123
Total 88 529 18 762 107 291
Table 15 above indicates that the highest number of individuals within urban
areas was recorded within the Nama Khoi Local Municipality and the lowest
number was recorded within the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality. The
highest number of individuals within rural areas was recorded within Hantam
Local Municipality and the lowest number was recorded within the Richtersveld
Local Municipality. Table 15 above indicates that the majority of people within
the NDM live in urban areas – 88 529 and only 18 762 people live within rural
areas.
It should be noted that the density of these urban settlements is much lower
than comparable settlements in the rest of South Africa, hence these is scope
for densification of human settlements in the NDM.
4.2.3 Household and Population Analysis
Table 16 indicates the number of persons recorded during the 2007 Community
Survey and the 2001 Census.
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Table 16 Total number of persons within the NDM
Municipality CS 2007 Census 2001 Annual Growth
Rate
Richtersveld 14 613 10 125 6.31
Nama Khoi 54 644 44 750 3.39
Kamiesberg 12 117 10 754 2.01
Hantam 21 234 19 813 1.16
Karoo Hoogland 10 420 10 512 -0.15
Khai Ma 12 571 11 344 1.73
DMA 897 813 1.65
Total 126 496 108 111 2.65
Northern Cape Province 1 058 060 991 919 1.08%
South Africa 48 502 063 44 819 777 1.32%
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 93
Table 16 above indicates that the number of people within each local
municipality has increased from the 2001 Census to the 2007 Community
Survey, except for Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality where a slight decrease
was recorded. The highest annual average population growth rate was in the
Richtersveld Local Municipality at 6.31%, followed by the Nama Khoi Local
Municipality at 3.39%. The overall annual average percentage growth rate
experienced in the district was 2.65%. This is higher than the provincial average
population growth rate, which is 1.08%. From this statistic, we can conclude that
the population growth rates are due to natural growth and from inward migration
to the NDM. Population growth rates are also double that for South Africa as a
whole, further indication that inward migration to the NDM is occurring.
The table demonstrates further that, given there is overall migration into the
NDM, the population migration within the NDM trend is towards the larger
economic and social centres.
Economic migration takes place to improve one’s economic prospects, to take
advantages of a higher number of work opportunities or to access larger
markets. Social migration occurs as a result of humankind’s desire to form
groups. Migration into larger groups improves one’s chances of forming
relationships and developing family and friendship ties. Generally larger social
groups tend to offer better economic opportunities, although this is not the case
in areas where industry is establishing and population size is not yet very high.
Typical examples of these types of area include mining towns or military bases,
where the economic attraction is higher than the social attraction.
The population trends in the NDM point to the fact that the economic
opportunities offered by the RLM are perceived to be better than those offered
by the NKLM, hence the higher inward migration rates. This result could be
explained by the fact that Port Nolloth, and to a lesser extent, Alexander Bay,
are developing tourism nodes. This economic stimulus could be the factor that
attracts migrants over the relatively larger and more economically diverse towns
such as Springbok in the NKLM. This result has been achieved despite the fact
that the largest economic activity in RLM is mining and the main diamond mine
in Alexander Bay, Alexkor, is nearing the end of its operational life. This
demonstrates the economic power of tourism.
The 2007 Community Survey indicates that the total number of households
within the NDM increased to 36 437 compared to the 2001 Census figure of 27
776.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
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Table 17 Total number of households within the NDM, (Community Survey 2007 and
Census 2001)
Municipality CS 2007 Census 2001 Annual Growth
Rate
Richtersveld 3 953 2 604 7.20
Nama Khoi 15 656 10 903 6.22
Kamiesberg 3 881 2 834 5.38
Hantam 5 819 5 404 1.24
Karoo Hoogland 2 982 2 942 0.23
Khai Ma 3 787 2 752 5.46
DMA 359 337 1.06
Total 36 437 27 776 4.63
Table 17 above indicates that household numbers for each local municipality
within the NDM has increased from the 2001 Census to the 2007 Community
Survey with the highest growth rate being experienced in Richtersveld Local
Municipality, at 7.22%, with the Nama Khoi Local Municipality’s population
growing at 6.22% annually over the period. The lowest growth rate was 0.23%
for the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality, followed by the District Management
Area.
The overall number of households in the NDM increased faster than the
population. This indicates that the age profile of the NDM is increasing. As a
population gets older, households tend to form as the result of long-term family
relationships forming. Household creation is also faster in economically active
areas, with the RLM and NKLM experiencing the highest growth.
The relative growth of household numbers against the growth in population, is
largest in KLM and KMLM. Here the population grew at around 2% per annum,
whilst the household count grew at around 5.4%. This phenomenon can again
be explained by an aging population as well as by relative economic hardship,
where the formation of families is a means to combine production and costs in a
family unit and reap economies of scale.
4.2.4 Population Structure
Table 18 Age structure within the NDM (Census, 2001).
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 95
Persons 2001 1996 Annual Average
Growth
Males 0 to 4 5 118 5 740 -1.89
Males 5 to 14 11 088 11 993 -1.30
Male 15 to 34 17 709 18 107 -0.37
Males 35 to 64 16 456 15 212 1.32
Males over 65 3 076 2 969 0.59
Males Total 53 447 54 021 -0.18
Females 0 to 4 4 870 5 494 -1.99
Females 5 to 14 10 637 11 637 -1.49
Females 15-34 17 325 17 844 -0.49
Females 35-64 17 648 15 909 1.74
Females over 65 4 182 3 735 1.90
Females Total 54 662 54 619 -0.01
Table 18 above indicates that there is a relatively even gender distribution
throughout the age groups within the NDM. The only exception is the higher
number in females over 65 years of age. This can be attributed to the fact that
life expectancy of women on a global scale is higher than male life expectancy.
The table demonstrates that between 1996 and 2001, the last time that
systematic age breakdown figures were available in the NDM, the trend was
towards an aging population. The numbers of people, of both genders, between
the ages of 0 and 34 decreased on average by 1.25%. This ageing is taking
place because the younger population groups within the NDM are migrating out
of the district, and therefore having and raising their children in other geographic
locations.
The main reason for an ageing population is outward migration of the youth due
to better economic and social prospects elsewhere. This phenomenon is an
economic risk factor since the most productive and energetic members of the
population are working in other jurisdictions and these people are not likely to be
replaced by births in the remaining population, nor by inward migration. This
trend is likely to continue, unless the economic climate in the NDM improves
On the surface, the relatively high population increase experienced by the NDM,
at 2.6% per annum, and the even faster growth in number of households, is at
odds with the trend of outward youth migration. This phenomenon can be
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 96
explained if the inward migrants are older members of the population, those who
have already formed family units. Reasons for this type of migration could be an
economic or social attraction, which could be enhanced by a relative lack of
skills and experience within the NDM. Thus it is suggested that the existing
workforce in the NDM has low levels of education.
This trend supports the assertions made in Section 4.2.3 above, that the
existing, aging NDM population is migrating towards the better economic and
social prospects of the larger centres in the NDM.
Table 19 Gender structure within the NDM
Richters-
veld
Nama
Khoi
Kamies-
berg Hantam
Karoo
Hoogland Khai-Ma DMA Total
Male 5 138 22 004 5 455 9 535 5 006 5 844 467 534 49
Female 4 986 22 746 5 299 10 278 5 506 5 501 345 54 661
%
Female 49% 51% 49% 52% 52% 48% 42% 51%
Total 10 125 44 750 10 754 19 813 10 512 11 344 813 108 111
Table 19 above indicates that there is a relatively even gender distribution within
the NDM. The lowest percentage of females was registered within the District
Management Area 42% followed by Kamiesberg Local Municipality with 48%.
4.2.5 Income Distribution
Census 2001 data has been presented and analysed to obtain an understanding
of the income profile of the NDM.
The table below gives income data, per income bracket, for all local
municipalities, as a percentage of the total number of people (between 15 and
65) in each income bracket.
Table 20 Person Income per Income Bracket and Municipality (% of District Total)
Local
Municipality
Percentage of Low
Income Earners
[0 to R3 200 pm]
Percentage of
Middle Income
Earners
[R3 201 to R25 600
pm]
Percentage of High
Income Earners
[R25 601 and above
pm]
Percentage
of Total
Income
Earners
Hantam 19% 14% 28% 18%
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 97
Local
Municipality
Percentage of Low
Income Earners
[0 to R3 200 pm]
Percentage of
Middle Income
Earners
[R3 201 to R25 600
pm]
Percentage of High
Income Earners
[R25 601 and above
pm]
Percentage
of Total
Income
Earners
Kamiesberg 8% 10% 6% 8%
Karoo
Hoogland 11% 6% 16% 10%
Khâi-Ma 15% 10% 8% 14%
Nama Khoi 37% 49% 36% 40%
Richtersveld 9% 12% 7% 10%
Grand Total 100% 100% 100% 100%
Table 20 demonstrates that NKLM has the highest number of income earners in
the NDM, at 40% of the total district income earning population. The next
highest number of income earners is in the HLM, with 18%. KMLM, KHLM, RLM
and KLM all contribute about 10% of the total number of income earners in the
district. Thus NKLM is by far the largest source of income for the residents on
NDM.
The table further demonstrates that NKLM has the highest percentage of low
income people in the district, at 37%, HLM and KHLM follow. Hence poverty
alleviation efforts and programmes to improve the economy in the NKLM will
yield the highest poverty alleviation benefits.
The table below gives income data, per income bracket, for all local
municipalities, as a percentage of the total number of people (between 15 and
65) in each local municipality.
Table 21 Person Income per Income Bracket and Municipality (% of LM Total).
Local
Municipality
Percentage of Low
Income Earners
[0 to R3 200 pm]
Percentage of
Middle Income
Earners
[R3 201 to R25 600
pm]
Percentage of High
Income Earners
[R25 601 and above
pm]
Percentage
of Total
Income
Earners
Hantam 82% 17% 1% 100%
Kamiesberg 71% 28% 1% 100%
Karoo
Hoogland 84% 14% 1% 100%
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 98
Local
Municipality
Percentage of Low
Income Earners
[0 to R3 200 pm]
Percentage of
Middle Income
Earners
[R3 201 to R25 600
pm]
Percentage of High
Income Earners
[R25 601 and above
pm]
Percentage
of Total
Income
Earners
Khâi-Ma 83% 16% 0% 100%
Nama Khoi 71% 28% 1% 100%
Richtersveld 72% 28% 1% 100%
Grand Total 76% 23% 1% 100%
Table 21 above demonstrates that the district has an overall average of 76% of
its residents in the low income bracket, i.e. between 0 and R 3 200 per month.
The HLM, KHLM and KMLM all have 82-84% of their residents in this income
bracket. This is compared to the NKLM which has the lowest percentage of low
income earners at 72%.
This table demonstrates that the levels of poverty in the NDM as a whole are
very high. Thus the level of economic activity is too low to adequately support its
population.
Census 2001 data has been used to analyse household income. The data
confirms the trends above. The majority of the households within the NDM,
76%, earn below R38 400 per annum. Of this figure 12% of households earn no
income and they depend on state grants and charity for their survival.
Table 22 Percentage of households by annual household income within the NDM
Municipality
No I
nco
me
R1
-R4 8
00
R4 8
01
-R9 6
00
R9 6
01
-R19
200
R19
20
1-R
38
40
0
R38
40
1-R
76
80
0
R76
80
1-R
15
3 6
00
R15
3 6
01
-R30
7
20
0
R30
7 2
01
-R61
4
40
0
R61
4 4
01
-R1 2
28
80
0
R1 2
28
80
1-R
2
45
7 6
00
R2 4
57
60
1 a
nd
mo
re
Hantam 472 375 1265 1381 869 462 314 175 49 24 17 6
Kamiesberg 447 201 591 588 413 259 169 59 9 12 66 19
Karoo
Hoogland 198 336 725 756 411 232 188 49 28 11 3 3
Khai Ma 386 181 580 549 396 325 217 95 23 3 0 6
Nama Khoi 1380 543 1719 2079 2201 1462 992 415 81 20 14 6
Richtersveld 465 151 358 396 461 385 279 77 19 3 3 3
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 99
Municipality
No
In
co
me
R1
-R4
80
0
R4
80
1-R
9 6
00
R9
60
1-R
19
200
R1
9 2
01
-R3
8 4
00
R3
8 4
01
-R7
6 8
00
R7
6 8
01
-R1
53
60
0
R1
53
601
-R3
07
20
0
R3
07
201
-R6
14
40
0
R6
14
401
-R1
22
8
80
0
R1
22
8 8
01
-R2
45
7 6
00
R2
45
7 6
01
an
d
mo
re
Total 3 348 1 787 5 238 5 749 4 751 3 125 2 159 870 209 73 103 43
Table 22 above provides additional detail on the percentage figures presented
above.
According to the 2001 Census, the average household income for the NDM is
R25 000 per household. However, the majority of individuals and households fall
in the R 2 401 – R 6 000 per annum bracket.
Further analysis indicates that the majority of households earn less than one
half of the total average i.e. less than R 12 000 per annum. Table 22 above
details the number of households by annual income for each local municipality
within the NDM as per the Census 2001.
The 2001 Census figures indicate low income levels in each local municipality
within the NDM and many individuals are unemployed and entirely dependent
on state grants and charity for their survival.
4.2.6 Education and Literacy
The education levels in the NDM are low. Approximately half of the population
over 20 years old within the District have some secondary education and a very
small percentage obtained Grade 12 qualification.
The statistics in Table 23 are from the 2001 Census. In total there were 6% of
the people within the NDM that have a higher education; 16% have Standard
10/Grade 12 education; fully 35%, or one third of the population have some
secondary education, 11% have complete primary education, another 22% have
some primary education and 11% of the population had no schooling.
The highest number of individuals with no schooling was recorded within the
Hantam Local Municipality.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 100
Table 23 Number of individuals (age 20+) by highest education level reached
Municipality No
Schooling
Some
primary
Complete
primary
Some
secondary
Std
10/Grade
12
Higher Total
Hantam 3 083 2 492 997 2 837 1 735 719 11 863
% of LM 26% 21% 8% 24% 15% 6% 100%
Kamiesberg 563 1 563 782 2 502 983 238 6 631
% of LM 8% 24% 12% 38% 15% 4% 100%
Karoo
Hoogland 1 814 1 336 474 1 535 902 524 6 585
% of LM 28% 20% 7% 23% 14% 8% 100%
Khai-Ma 462 1 730 851 2 793 1 044 274 7 154
% of LM 6% 24% 12% 39% 15% 4% 100%
Nama Khoi 1 248 5 484 3 315 11 068 4 489 1 760 27 364
% of LM 5% 20% 12% 40% 16% 6% 100%
Richtersveld 329 1 357 1 109 2 246 1 080 271 6 392
% of LM 5% 21% 17% 35% 17% 4% 100%
Total 7 499 13 962 7 528 22 981 10 233 3 786 65 989
% of Total 11% 21% 11% 35% 16% 6% 100%
This implies that 44% of the population had an education level below high
school in 2001. Another 50% had some form of high school education. Only
21% of the population had received a matric certificate or higher, with matric
being seen as minimum required for a member of the workforce not engaged in
manual labour.
If it is assumed that those without matric are unlikely to have the necessary
skills to work on non-manual occupations, then 79% of the population of the
NDM is qualified for manual labour.
Following this basic education breakdown, Table 24 below provides a
breakdown in the classification “Higher” in the table above. This analysis is done
to determine the percentage of the workforce that is skilled and whose skills can
be harnessed to drive the economy of the NDM.
Table 24 Number of individuals (age 20+) by higher education levels
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 101
Municipality
Cert
ific
ate
with
less tha
n g
rade
12
Dip
lom
a w
ith
less tha
n g
rade
12
Bache
lor's
degre
e
Bache
lor's
degre
e a
nd
dip
lom
a
Hono
ur's d
egre
e
Hig
her
de
gre
e
(maste
r's o
r
docto
rate
)
Tota
ls
Hantam 10% 15% 29% 33% 5% 8% 100%
Kamiesberg 14% 10% 32% 23% 13% 8% 100%
Karoo
Hoogland 4% 15% 33% 24% 15% 9% 100%
Khai Ma 21% 21% 22% 15% 4% 16% 100%
Nama Khoi 24% 14% 23% 20% 10% 10% 100%
Richtersveld 16% 15% 24% 18% 19% 8% 100%
Total 8% 16% 29% 25% 11% 11% 100%
Table 24 above indicates that of those individuals with a level of education
beyond matric, 54% of the qualifications are at a bachelor’s degree level. 22% of
this population have a degree above Bachelor’s level. When the entire
population of the NDM is used, these figures translate to 3.2% and 1.3%
respectively.
The Richtersveld Local Municipality has three high schools, seven secondary
schools and several primary schools. Each of the rural towns has one primary
and one pre-primary school.
The Nama Khoi Local Municipality has twenty-four high or secondary schools
and a number of primary schools. Damelin College has opened a branch in
Springbok that provides community tourism and management courses.
Within the Khai Ma Local Municipality there are seven high or secondary
schools and several primary schools.
The Kamiesberg Local Municipality has fifteen high or secondary schools and
twelve primary schools.
The Hantam Local Municipality has nineteen high or secondary schools and
several primary schools.
The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality has nine high or secondary schools and
a number of primary schools.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
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4.2.7 Living Conditions
Living conditions in the local municipality can be approximated by reference to
figures for the indicators listed below:
Type of main residential dwelling;
Household water source;
Energy used for cooking; and
Tenure status.
These four indicators are used since they reveal the socio-economic conditions
of the household.
The type of residential dwelling is a key indicator that reflects the degree to
which the household is permanently established in the area and has established
social ties. The more permanent the housing type, the more investment that
household has in the area in which they live. Thus they are ties that bind the
household to the community.
The household water source is an indicator of the overall level of service in the
community. The ideal service type is to have potable water supplies in the
house. Any other lower standard of service indicates either that the household is
highly impermanent or that the standards of service in the municipality do not
allow for adequate connection. This could be due to a lack of municipal
resources, or from the location of the household in question.
The energy source used for cooking is a further indicator of service level, as well
as being an indicator of household financial strength. The use of electricity for
cooking is relatively more expensive than alternatives such as wood or paraffin,
but the convenience of this energy source allows households to devote more
time to other productive activities. Similar to the case with water supplies, the
availability of electricity in the house points to a high level of service from the
municipality, especially if this availability is pervasive. The local environmental
impact of electricity is lower than the alternatives, and is thus more desirable
when seen from this viewpoint.
The tables below provide detail on the indicators. Each table is followed by a
discussion of the implications of the indicator and the percentage changes
between Census 2001 and the Community Survey 2007.
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Table 25 Percentage distribution of households by type of main dwelling
Type of Main Dwelling Census
2001 CS 2007
Annual %
Change
House or brick structure on a separate stand or
yard 75.1 75.3 0%
Traditional dwelling/hut/structure made of
traditional materials 7.0 4.5 -6%
Flat in block of flats 1.6 1.4 -2%
Town/cluster/semi-detached house (simplex:
duplex: triplex) 1.5 2.0 6%
House/flat/room in back yard 1.9 1.1 -7%
Informal dwelling/shack
in backyard 2.4 1.6 -6%
Not in backyard e.g. Informal settlement 9.0 8.9 0%
Room/flatlet not in back yard but on a shared
property 0.8 0.5 -6%
Caravan or tent 0.7 0.2 -12%
Private ship/boat 0.0 0.0 n/a
Workers' hostel (bed/room) 0.0 4.0 n/a
Other 0.0 0.5 n/a
Total 100.0 100.0
Table 25 above shows that 75.3% of the population of the NDM live in formal
brick structures, located on a private stand or erf. The next largest dwelling type
is a shack located in an informal settlement, which comprise 8.9% of the total
households. The percentage change in the six years between the two surveys is
almost zero, which indicates that the pressure for housing stock is not acute.
This observation is confirmed by the fact that the annual decrease in occupancy
of a backyard shack is 6% (1.6% of the population) and that for traditional
dwellings is 6% (4.5% of the population). This is contrasted by a growth of 6% in
townhouse/cluster dwellings. Thus there is a degree of “trading up” within the
NDM, where backyard shack and traditional dwellers are decreasing.
This lack of pressure on urban housing stock is maintained despite the
urbanisation trends isolated in Section 4.2.3 above. This is due to a combination
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 104
of increasing urban densities and a portion of the youth moving out of the NDM
to seek better social and economic prospects elsewhere.
A trend towards increasing urban densities can be discerned by the 6% annual
growth in households living in townhouses or cluster complexes. This trend is
largely driven by economics, in that these types of dwelling are cheaper to
purchase and cheaper to maintain than an equivalent size of dwelling located on
its own private erf.
It should be noted that 10.5 of the households in the NDM are shacks. This
translates to 3 826 households living in shacks.
Table 26 Percentage distribution of households by type of water source
Type of Water Source Census
2001 CS 2007
Annual %
Change
Piped water inside the dwelling 34.3 50.0 8%
Piped water inside the yard 37.7 30.3 -3%
Piped water from access point outside
the yard 22.0 14.1 -6%
Borehole 1.7 2.7 10%
Spring 0.3 0.0 -17%
Dam/pool 0.9 0.8 -2%
River/Stream 1.3 0.7 -8%
Water vendor 0.1 0.4 50%
Rainwater tank 0.2 0.3 8%
Other 1.7 0.7 -10%
Total 100.0 100.0
Table 26 above shows that the dominant source of water for the residents of the
NDM was water in the household dwelling, with 50% of the population. A further
30% have water supplied to the yard. A remaining 14% have water supplied to
an access point outside their yards. When the households who have access to
borehole water are added, 98% of the population of the NDM has access to
some form of treated potable water. The method and effectiveness of the water
treatment varies from the formal water care works serving Springbok to the
community operated borehole schemes of Lekkersing in the Richtersveld LM.
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The table further reinforces the fact that water is not easily available in the NDM
since fully 97% of people rely upon man-made systems for the provision of
water. This compares to 92.4% in South Africa and 84.0% in the more water
abundant province of Kwa-Zulu Natal.
The data imply that 1 057 households do not have access to an improved water
supply in the NDM.
Table 27 Percentage distribution of households by tenure status
Household Tenure Status Census
2001 CS2007
Annual %
Change
Owned and fully paid off 48.6 56.9 3%
Owned but not yet paid off 12.2 9.7 -3%
Rented 15.7 16.0 0%
Occupied rent-free 23.5 16.4 -5%
Other - 1 n/a
Total 100.0 100.0
Table 27 above shows that most (57%) of the households in the NDM own their
own dwelling, this figure is across all dwelling types, brick houses to shacks. A
further 10% are paying off debt in order to own the house. Thus 67% of the
population of the NDM live in houses owned and maintained by themselves.
Sixteen percent of the population of the NDM live in rented accommodation.
A further 16% live in rent free accommodation. This type of accommodation is
typically provided to farm labourers and mine workers, and the annual
percentage decrease in this type of accommodation is 5%, which is in-line with
expectations given the shrinking of the mining sector and the formalisation of the
labour relations in the agricultural sector.
Table 28 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used
for cooking
Type of Energy/Fuel used for
Cooking
Census
2001 CS 2007
Annual %
Change
Electricity 54.1 77.2 7%
Gas 6.6 4.1 -6%
Paraffin 18.3 8.0 -9%
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Wood 19.3 10.0 -8%
Coal 0.5 0.2 -10%
Animal dung 0.8 0.1 -15%
Solar 0.2 0.2 0%
Other 0.2 0.2 0%
Total 100.0 100.0
Table 28 above shows that 77% of the population of the NDM use electricity as
their main source of energy for cooking. This implies that the electricity grid has
a high degree of penetration in the NDM. The national average for this indicator
is 66.4%.
The high percentage decreases in the use of other fuels indicates that electricity
is deemed to be the most economic and convenient form of cooking energy
available in the NDM.
4.3 Economic Environment
4.3.1 General Economy and Employment
The main economic activities within the NDM are agriculture and mining. Stock
farming in the District includes sheep, cattle and goat farming and is the key
contributor to the agricultural sector. Ostrich farming is also practised within the
District. Flower bulbs and wool production are also important contributors to the
agricultural sector. The Orange River plays a key role in the regions’ agricultural
activities and alluvial diamond mining activities.
Karoo Hoogland and Hantam Local Municipalities are the relevant agricultural
centres where stock farming is the main economic sector with very little mining
occurring. The main mining activity centres are Kamiesberg, Richtersveld, Nama
Khoi and Khai Ma Local Municipalities.
In the Richtersveld Local Municipality mining is the main economic activity
providing most of the employment opportunities in the region.
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The main mining activity centres where alluvial diamond mining and quarrying
are performed include Alexander Bay and Baken. Port Nolloth is a small-scale
diamond mining and crayfish industry centre as well as a tourist resort.
Lekkersing and Kuboes are characterised by small stock farming with most
farmers being small scale and/or subsistence. Small-scale harbours feature at
Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth.
In Nama Khoi Springbok is the main town. Springbok is an administrative,
commercial, farming and industrial centre and represents the economic activity
hub for the surrounding smaller towns. Springbok is the communications,
administrative, educational and commercial centre for the copper mining within
the Nama Khoi Local Municipality. The towns of Kleinzee and Koiingnaas mainly
house the mining industry staff. The inland area is mainly used for farming.
Nababeep, the headquarters of the O’kiep Copper Company, and Concordia are
copper mining towns. O’kiep hosts the copper mine and copper mining used to
be the main economic activity in the area. Steinkopf is a small stock sheep
farming town.
Kamiesberg Local Municipality has three main economic sectors: livestock
grazing, mining and tourism. The two emerging sectors are aquaculture and
conservation and ecological restoration. The main economic activities in Garies
are granite works and farming. The major economic activity in Koiingnaas is
mining. The main economic activity in Kamieskroon and Kharkams is stock
farming.
In the Khai Ma Local Municipality Pofadder and Aggeneys are the main towns.
Aggeneys is a copper, zinc and lead mining town. Pofadder has sheep farming
as the main economic activity. Pella is the fruit growing centre within the Khai
Ma Local Municipality where dates, figs, grapes and pomegranates are grown.
In the Hantam Local Municipality Calvinia, Niewoudtville and Loeriesfontein are
the main towns. Calvinia is a sheep and wool farming town. Niewoudtville’s main
economic activities are sheep farming as well as wheat and rooibos tea
production. Loeriesfontein is a wool farming and salt mining centre.
In the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality Sutherland, Williston and Fraserburg
are the main towns. Sutherland is a farming town with the main activities being
sheep and wool farming. Williston is another farming town with the main activity
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 108
being sheep farming. Fraserburg is a commercial farming as a well as a tourist
town.
Table 29 Local municipalities contribution to NDM GGP
Municipality GDP (2007) % of District Total
Richtersveld R 652,467.04 17.3%
Nama Khoi R 1 573, 543.68 41.7%
Kamiesberg R 389,601.93 10.3%
Hantam LM R 444, 112.48 11.8%
Karoo Hoogland R 314,288.30 8.3%
Khai Ma R 388,427.06 10.3%
Namakwa R 10, 682.84 0.3%
Namakwa DM (TOTAL) R 3,773, 123.32 100%
(Quantec Database, Standardised Regional Data, 2007)
Table 29 above indicates that Nama Khoi Local Municipality has the highest
contribution to the NDM GDP 41.7% and the lowest contribution of 8.3% was
recorded within the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality.
Accessibility to the area is a significant challenge as there are no major airports
within the NDM. The closest national airport is Kimberly and the nearest
international airport is Upington International. The closest major port is Saldanha
Bay in the Western Cape. There are no commuter railway networks within the
NDM which results in limited accessibility to the area.
The major south/north corridor, the N7 National Road which passes through
Springbok, Garies and Kamieskroon towns has been widened between
Springbok and Garies. However, there is need for further upgrading of the N7.
The major east west corridor is the N14 which connects O’kiep to Pofadder. The
N14 continues to Upington and then into the Gauteng Province.
The R358 secondary road is a gravel road between Pofadder and Onseepkans.
The R358 connects Pofadder to Kenhardt and Bitterfontein.
The major employment sectors within the NDM are the agriculture and mining
sectors.
Table 30 Number of individuals (Age 15-65) by employment status (Census 2001)
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 109
Municipality Employed Unemployed Not Economically
Active % Unemployment
Hantam 5 228 1 337 5 493 20%
Kamiesberg 2 355 1 108 3 209 32%
Karoo Hoogland 2 933 1 175 2 375 29%
Khâi-Ma 3 976 731 2 788 16%
Nama Khoi 11 535 5 754 12 254 33%
DMA 421 0 183 0%
Richtersveld 2 831 1 558 2 467 35%
Totals 29 279 11 663 28 769 28%
Table 30 above indicates that the highest number of employed individuals was
recorded within the Nama Khoi Local Municipality and the lowest number within
the Kamiesberg Local Municipality.
The table demonstrates that the size of the district workforce is 40 492 and the
unemployment rate was 28% in 2001. The highest unemployment rate is 35%
and 33% in the RLM and NKLM respectively. This indicates that work-seekers
are highest in these two municipalities given their economic size and diversity.
The lowest unemployment figures are in the DMA with no unemployment and
HLM with 20% unemployment. These figures indicate that the few people living
in the DMA are living there for a purpose; they are either sent there or retained
there by an employer. The low employment rate in HLM could be attributed to
the agricultural focus of the economy in the area which offers relatively few
economic opportunities outside that sector, thus not attracting migrant work-
seekers.
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Table 31 Number of employed individuals (age 15-65) by industry (Census 2001)
Municipality
Agriculture
huntin
g;
fore
str
y a
nd fis
hin
g
Min
ing a
nd q
uarr
yin
g
Ma
nufa
ctu
rin
g
Ele
ctr
icity, gas a
nd
wate
r supply
Constr
uctio
n
Whole
s a
nd r
eta
il
trade
Tra
nsport
; sto
rage
and c
om
mu
nic
atio
n
Com
munity; socia
l
and p
ers
onal
serv
ices
Oth
er
and n
ot
adequate
ly d
efin
ed
Private
Household
s
Undete
rmin
ed
Hantam 1 806 56 141 17 236 610 98 813 0 658 588
Kamiesberg 477 613 44 6 51 222 61 410 3 202 185
Karoo Hoogland 1 327 0 45 3 83 241 50 419 0 410 253
Khai Ma 1 968 474 140 41 207 359 26 371 0 163 150
Nama Khoi 821 3 314 474 67 585 1 824 282 1 993 0 1 070 541
Richtersveld 114 1 155 67 4 85 369 68 418 0 245 148
Total 6 513 5 612 911 138 12 47 3 625 585 4 424 3 2 748 1 865
% of Total 24% 20% 3% 0% 5% 13% 2% 16% 0% 10% 7%
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Table 31 above indicates that the highest number of individuals is employed
within the agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing sector followed by the mining
and quarrying sector. The above table indicates that agriculture and mining are
the dominant employment sectors within the District with few employment
opportunities within alternative industries.
Figure 18 Total Employment by Industry
The graphic above is derived from
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 112
Table 31 and clearly demonstrates the dominance of the agricultural and mining
industries towards employment creation in the NDM. Together these sectors
contributed 44% of total employment in 2001.
The next largest sectors are the community services and social grouping at 16%
and private households which employ 10% of the workforce.
Table 32 Number of employed individuals (age 15-65) by occupation (Census 2001)
Municipality
Legis
lato
rs;
se
nio
r
offic
ials
and m
ana
ge
rs
Pro
fessio
nals
Technic
ians a
nd
associa
te p
rofe
ssio
nals
Cle
rks
Serv
ice w
ork
ers
; sho
p
and
mark
et sale
s
work
ers
Skill
ed a
gri
cultura
l an
d
fishe
ry w
ork
ers
Cra
ft a
nd r
ela
ted tra
des
work
ers
Pla
nt
an
d m
achin
e
ope
rato
rs a
nd
asse
mble
rs
Ele
me
nta
ry o
ccu
pa
tion
s
Unde
term
ined
Hantam 238 174 269 400 294 845 294 121 2 184 401
Kamiesberg 120 90 180 232 216 277 366 118 593 165
Karoo Hoogland 117 67 147 150 168 327 133 78 1 515 231
Khai Ma 112 74 177 210 187 267 536 173 2 169 63
Nama Khoi 485 579 878 1 495 1 277 197 2 171 737 3 277 439
Richtersveld 178 138 200 323 259 137 510 333 642 108
Total 1 250 1 122 1 851 2 810 2 401 2 050 4 010 1 560 10 380 1 407
% of Total 4% 4% 6% 10% 8% 7% 14% 5% 36% 5%
Table 32 above indicates that the highest percentages (36%) of workers were
employed in the elementary occupations. These are occupations with a focus on
manual labour and un-skilled jobs. The next highest category is artisans at 14%.
Following this are a group of categories; clerks (10%), shop assistants and
skilled workers in the agricultural and forestry industries. Of the total workforce,
8% occupy positions such as managers.
These findings match the observations made in Section 4.2.6 that education
levels are low and this allows work seekers to carry out only manual and un-
skilled work.
4.3.2 Tourism
The NDM is characterised by a unique environment and contains numerous
areas of high conservation importance and high tourism potential. Tourism is a
growing and developing sector within the NDM and its potential is yet to be
fulfilled.
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Access to the District is available through two national roads, the N7 (connecting
the Western Cape to Namibia) and the N14 (connecting Springbok to Upington
and further east to Gauteng). Three airports are located in the region of
Alexander Bay, Springbok and Calvinia.
The NDM has tourism potential in terms of the following areas:
a. Eco-tourism: NDM is characterized by unique natural flora and features
several national parks and nature reserves such as:
Namakwa National Park (near Kamieskroon);
Tankwa Karoo National Park (Namakwaland, south of Hantam Local
Municipality);
Richtersveld National Park (Richtersveld Local Municipality);
Groenspoeg (south of Hondeklipbaai);
Goegap Nature Reserve (Nama Khoi Local Municipality);
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve (south of Niewoudtville);
Akkerdam Nature Reserve (north of Calvinia); and
Hantam National Botanical Gardens (Hantam Local Municipality).
b. Adventure Tourism: within the NDM includes 4x4 trails, hiking, mountain
biking; camping, fishing, river rafting and canoeing. Some of these facilities are
listed below:
Namakwa 4x4 Trail (from Pella to Alexander Bay);
The Richtersveld Route includes hiking, 4x4 trails and mountain biking;
Kamieskroon Trail;
Pofadder Hiking Trail (Pofadder);
Rooiberg Hiking Trail (east of Garies);
Skaaprivier Hiking Trail (near Nababeep);
Koperberg Tours and Safaris (Springbok);
Angling (Alexander Bay);
Scenic drives (Hondeklipbaai);
Hiking (Oorlogskloof);
Caracal Ecoroute (Namakwa National Park); and
Canoeing and river rafting on the Orange River.
c. Historical and Cultural Tourism: the NDM offers the rich heritage of the
Khoi San/Nama people with an ancient and indigenous culture; the Annual
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Namakwa Festival of Culture and Light (Springbok); historical buildings;
churches and the mining museums with the history of diamond mining and
settlement in the region. Some of the historical and cultural tourism features
within the NDM are listed below, however a detailed list is presented in section 9
of this report.
The Dutch Reformed Church (Steinkopf);
Rhenish Mission Church (Concordia);
Fort Shelton (O’kiep);
Klipfontein (Steinkopf);
The Dutch Reformed Church (Brandvlei);
Calvinia Museum (Calvinia);
Calvinia Meat Festival (Calvinia);
Khoisan Rock Paintings (Niewoudtville);
Fraserburg Museum (Fraserburg);
The Methodist Church (Leliefontein);
Mining Museum (Nababeep);
Bosluispan (near Pofadder);
The Dutch Reformed Church (Sutherland); and
Williston Museum (Williston).
d. Technological Tourism: the undeveloped nature and climate of the NDM
makes it favourable for star-gazing. The South African Large Telescope (SALT)
at the Astronomical Observatory in Sutherland is the largest telescope in the
southern hemisphere. SALT has a redesigned optical system using more of the
mirror array and is able to record distant stars and galaxies. Potential projects
include:
Square Kilometre Array (SKA) – a US project for the development of the
world’s largest radio telescope
Mining tourism – tours of diamond mines would provide visitors with
fascinating insights into this largely closed and traditionally secretive
industry
The NDM is characterised by a rich cultural and historical heritage. The
historical buildings, the museums, the churches and the archaeological sites
located within the NDM offer an opportunity to explore the local history and
represent an important tourism attraction within the District.
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The Nama, the largest group of the Khoikhoi people, most of whom have largely
disappeared, live in Namakwaland. The Nama culture is rich in music and
literature and the Nama are known for their crafts which include amongst others
leatherwork, musical instruments (such as reed flutes) and clay pots.
The table below indicates the rich cultural and historic heritage that features
within the NDM.
Table 33 Cultural and historical features, NDM.
Cultural And Historic Features Town Municipality
Namakwa Festival Springbok Nama Khoi
Anglo-Boer War Graves Springbok Nama Khoi
Dutch Reformed Church Springbok Nama Khoi
Monument Koppie Springbok Nama Khoi
Namakwaland Museum Springbok Nama Khoi
Old Cemetery outside Springbok Nama Khoi
Smelting Furnace north of Springbok Nama Khoi
Synagogue Springbok Nama Khoi
Concordia Grave Yard Concordia Nama Khoi
Granite Ore Bins near Concordia Nama Khoi
Rhenish Mission Church Concordia Nama Khoi
United Reformed Church Concordia Nama Khoi
Kleinzee Museum Kleinzee Nama Khoi
Cornish Pump House O’kiep Nama Khoi
Fort Shelton between O’kiep &
Concordia
Nama Khoi
Klondike Geological Site O’kiep Nama Khoi
Magabreccia Geological Site O’kiep Nama Khoi
Smokestack O’kiep Nama Khoi
Graveyard O’kiep Nama Khoi
The Dutch Reformed Church Steinkopf Nama Khoi
Klipfontein Steinkopf Nama Khoi
Kinderle Steinkopf Nama Khoi
The Dutch Reformed Church Brandvlei Hantam
The Dutch Reformed Church Calvinia Hantam
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Cultural And Historic Features Town Municipality
Grave of Abraham Esau Calvinia Hantam
Calvinia Museum Calvinia Hantam
Hantam Huls Calvinia Hantam
Die Dorphuls Calvinia Hantam
Aspoort near Calvinia Hantam
Khoisan Rock Paintings Niewoudtville Hantam
Oorlogskloof 10kms south of
Niewoudtville
Hantam
Corbelled House Driefontein Farm
Fraserburg
Karoo Hoogland
Gansfontein Palaeosurface 5kms out of Fraserburg Karoo Hoogland
Fraserburg Museum Fraserburg Karoo Hoogland
Pepperbus Fraserburg Karoo Hoogland
Powder Magazine Depot Fraserburg Karoo Hoogland
Letterklip Garies Kamiesberg
Shipwreck Hondeklipbaai Kamiesberg
Lt. D.J. Darter’s Grave 15kms south of
Kamieskroon
Kamiesberg
Paulshoek Cultural Camp Paulshoek Kamiesberg
Leliefontein Mission Church Leliefontein Kamiesberg
The Methodist Church Leliefontein Kamiesberg
Parsonage Leliefontein Kamiesberg
Bushmans Fountain Klipfontein Kamiesberg
Mining Museum Nababeep Khai Ma
The Roman Catholic Mission Church Pella Khai Ma
The Dutch Reformed Church Pofadder Khai Ma
The Catholic Nunnery Pofadder Khai Ma
Bosluispan near Pofadder Khai Ma
The Dutch Reformed Church Sutherland Karoo Hoogland
Graves Sutherland Karoo Hoogland
Louw House Museum Sutherland Karoo Hoogland
Corbelled Houses Williston Karoo Hoogland
Williston Museum Williston Karoo Hoogland
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Figure 19 below indicates the cultural and historical features within the NDM:
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 118
Figure 19 Cultural and Historical Features, NDM.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 119
4.3.3 Land Use
The major economic drivers within the District are the agriculture and mining
sectors. Tourism and construction are smaller, developing industries. Tourism is
a developing industry which is currently seasonal with tourists visiting mainly
during the July to October months which feature the annual Namakwa spring
flower display. Urban development is not a major economic driver and is
expected to increase only slightly in the future.
The relevant agricultural centres within the NDM are the Karoo Hoogland and
Hantam Local Municipalities where stock farming is the main economic activity.
There is very little mining occurring within these municipalities.
Most of the cultivated dryland within the District occurs within the Kamiesberg,
Nama Khoi, Hantam and Karoo Hoogland Local Municipalities. There is very
little mining occurring within these municipalities. The main crops grown in the
District are Lucerne and wheat with rooibos being cultivated in Niewoudtville. In
the Orange River Valley, including Kakamas and Keimoes, fruits (i.e. grapes)
are cultivated intensively. Sheep-farming towns include Lekkersing, Kuboes,
Calvinia, Steinkopf, Niewoudtville, Loeriesfontein, Garies, Sutherland, Williston,
Fraserburg, Brandvlei; Middelpos and Pofadder. Pella is a fruit production centre
where dates, figs, grapes and pomegranates are grown. Niewoudtville is also a
bulb-production centre.
Mariculture activities are located at Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay and
Hondeklipbaai and focus on oysters and some experimental farming of abalone.
The main mining activity centres are Kamiesberg, Richtersveld, Nama Khoi and
Khai Ma Local Municipalities. Mining in the region comprises diamonds
(Alexander Bay, Port Nolloth, Baken, Kleinzee and Koiingnaas). Aggeneys is a
copper, zinc and lead mining town. O’kiep, Concordia and Nababeep are copper
mining towns and Garies is a granite mining town. Loeriesfontein is a salt-mining
centre.
Protected Areas
There are eleven protected areas in the NDM. Of these areas, three are
proclaimed as National Parks and are managed by SANParks. Tourists have
access to all these areas with the exception of Tankwa Karoo National Park that
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 120
is considered a scientific national park and access is allowed only by prior
arrangement (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2008).
The eleven parks/nature reserves/conservation areas are:
Namakwa National Park, near Kamieskroon;
Tankwa Karoo National Park, partially within the southern tip
of HLM;
Richtersveld National Park, in the most northern part of RLM;
The Orange River mouth, Alexander Bay;
Richterveld Community Conservancy, near the Richtersveld
National Park;
Nababiep Nature Reserve, at Vioolsdrift;
Akkerdam Nature Reserve, outside Calvinia;
Goegap Nature Reserve, east of Springbok;
Molineux Private Nature Reserve, near Kleinzee;
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve, south of Nieuwoudtville; and
Black Mountain Private Nature Reserve, near Aggeneys.
The areas conserved in the NDM are not only protecting the rich biodiversity of
the area but also contributes to the protection of a cultural heritage, an example
of which is the Richtersveld Community Conservancy.
Please refer to
Figure 20 for distribution of the conservation areas in the NDM.
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Figure 20 Location of Conservation Areas
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 122
Namakwa National Park
Namakwa National Park is a national park administered by SANParks and
is located 22 km northwest of Kamieskroon. It occupies an area of more
than 700km2. This park was established to protect the semi-desert
Succulent Karoo biome. The park has an arid environment with succulent
plants that bloom in the spring. These many-colored flowers include
daisies, lilies, aloes, and perennial herbs (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan,
2008).
Amphibians and reptiles are well represented in the park, with a number of
endemic species. The mammal species include Klipspringer, Aardvark,
Baboon, Steenbok, Duiker, Porcupine, Black-Backed Jackal and Leopard.
Birds are typical of the dry arid western regions of the country. The
Speckled Padloper, a tortoise, is found in the park.
The park has been described as typical Namakwaland broken veld with a
great variety of smaller succulents, such as Crassula spp., Adromischus
spp., Pelargonium spp., stapeliands and cotyledon spp., as well as annuals
and bulbous plants. It is also described as part of the succulent Karoo
biome, dividing the area into the strandveld succulent Karoo, Upland
Succulent Karoo, Lowland Succulent Karoo and North-western Mountain
Renosterveld (Fynbos Biome).
The Namakwaland broken veld merges east into the mountain
renosterveld of the hills and mountains of the Kamiesberg Range, part of
the fynbos biome. Four of the highest peaks exceed 1 500 m while
Rooiberg (south), the highest land surface in Namakwaland, reaches 1 700
m. The Kamiesberg range consists of at least 22 endemic taxa
((http://www.sanparks.org/parks/namaqua/all.php).
Endemic species (especially dwarf succulent shrubs) are clustered in
broken, rocky habitats rather than sandy or loamy flats. Remaining
endemics are likely to be geophyte members of the Iridaceae,
Amarylliadaceae and Geraniaceae, also confined to winter rainfall areas.
The hills and mountains of the Kamiesberg Range contains 201 endemic
centre with 79 endemic species confined to this small area
(http://www.sanparks.org/parks/namaqua/all.php).
Tankwa Karoo National Park
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 123
Tankwa Karoo National Park lies about 70 km due west of Sutherland near
the border of the Northern Cape and Western Cape., Average annual
rainfall is 50 to 70 mm with temperature highs reaching 39°C. The winters
are cold, with an average temperature of 5.7°C. The park is designated as
a Scientific National Park, and thus offers no visitor facilities.
The park’s area is currently 1 110 km², the majority of which lies outside
the NDM. It is bounded on the east by the Roggeveld Mountains, on the
west by the Cedarberg, to the north by the Kouebokkeveld Mountains and
on the south by the foothills of the Koedoesberge and Klein Roggeveld
Mountains, and the Tankwa River.
The vegetation in the park falls within the Succulent Karoo biome and has
been described as very sparse shrubland and Dwarf Shrubland. The park
is home to a large variety of birds, such as the Black-headed Canary,
Karoo Long-billed Lark Burchell’s Courser, Ludwig’s Bustard, and the
Blackeared Sparrowlark (http://www.sanparks.org/parks/tankwa/).
Richtersveld National Park
The Richtersveld National Park comprises two sections, the first along the
northern border of the NDM, whilst a small section is located north east of
Port Nolloth.
The park ranges in altitude from 60m to 1 377m and is a unique Arid
Biodiversity Hotspot, worldwide. Temperatures vary between 50°C in
summer, with winter temperatures reaching zero. Rainfall is low. The park
has an area of 1 624 km2. The Richtersveld National Park is dominated by
the Succulent Karoo Biome.
In June 2007, the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, just to
the south of the National Park and of equivalent size, was named a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Richtersveld World Heritage Site is
located within this World Heritage Site. The World Heritage site has never
been subjected to diamond mining and is thus more ecologically pristine
that the Richtersveld National Park.
An international treaty, signed on 1 August 2003, incorporated the Ai–Ais
Hot Springs Game Park in Namibia and Richtersveld National Park in
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South Africa, resulting in the establishment of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld
Transfrontier National Park. One of the main features of the combined park
is the Fish River Canyon.
The Orange River Mouth
The Orange River is a Transfrontier RAMSAR Site of international
importance owing to its habitat for water birds, such as flamingos and
pelicans (NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan, 2008). The lichen fields outside
Alexander Bay are a notable feature of this ecosystem.
Nababiep Nature Reserve
Nababiep Nature Reserve is situated at Vioolsdrift and the size of of this
reserve is 10 804 ha. It is situated in the Nababiep Mountains. This
reserves borders the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape on the
east.
Goegap Nature Reserve
Goegap Nature Reserve is sistuated east of Springbok; and is 15 004 ha in
size (http://go2southernafrica.com/northerncapetrip.html). This nature
reserves contains succulent that are endnic to the region and has 45
mammals, which includes species such as springbok, gemsbok, the
endangered Hartman's Zebra and the aardwolf amongst several others. In
terms of bird wildlife, the reserve has more than 92 recorded South African
bird species which can be viewed in the park and imcludes species such
as ostriches, black eagles, spotted dikkops and ground woodpeckers.
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve
This Nature Reserve is found south of Nieuwoudtville and the size of this
reserve is 4 811 ha. The reserve is characterised by gorges, rivers, caves
and plateaus, which are suitable for hiking and is located on the transition
zone between fynbos and Karoo biomes.
4.3.4 Mining
Mining is one of the major sectors within the NDM. The main mining activity
centres are Kamiesberg, Richtersveld, Nama Khoi and Khai Ma Local
Municipalities. Mining of diamonds is also found at the mouth of the Orange
River. Diamond mining activities occur in Alexander Bay, Port Nolloth, Baken,
Kleinzee and Koiingnaas. Copper, zinc and lead mining occurs in Aggeneys
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O’kiep and Nababiep are copper mining towns. Granite mining occurs in Garies.
Loeriesfontein is a salt mining centre.
The main mining houses within the District are Alexkor Ltd, De Beers
Consolidated Mines and the Trans Hex Group. The mines provide a number of
social and infrastructure services to employees and the rural towns.
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Figure 21 Active Mines, NDM.
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Table 34 Types of mining activities within the NDM
Municipality Town Type of Mining
Richtersveld Alexander Bay Alluvial diamond mining
Richtersveld Port Nolloth Marine diamond dredging
Richtersveld O’kiep Copper mining
Nama Khoi Kleinzee Diamond mining
Kamiesberg Koiingnaas Diamond mining
Kamiesberg Garies Granite mining
Khai Ma Aggeneys Lead and Zinc Mining
Mining has been carried out in the area for at least the past 120 years. As a
result of this long history there are many mines that have depleted their reserves
and have closed or are closing. One of the largest mines in the District is the
O’kiep Copper Company, situated north of Springbok. Its closure has impacted
greatly upon the economy of the district and has resulted in great social
dislocation. Connected to this has been a halting of the negative biophysical
impacts of mining, with rehabilitation of the mining area proceeding apace.
This duality, where the economic and social impacts have been negative, but the
biophysical impacts positive is the subject of a case study, which appears below.
The case study demonstrates the need to balance biophysical needs with
economic and social needs.
O’kiep Mine Closure Case Study
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0 50
No income
R 1 - R 400
R 401 - R 800
R 801 - R 1600
R 1601 - R 3200
R 3201 - R 6400
R 6401 - R 12800
R 12801 - R 25600
R 25601 or more
Percentage
Inco
me
pe
r p
ers
on
Table 3 Nama Khoi Income Comparison 2007
2001
0 10 20 30 40 50
No income
R 1 - R 400
R 401 - R 800
R 801 - R 1600
R 1601 - R 3200
R 3201 - R 6400
R 6401 - R 12800
R 12801 - R 25600
R 25601 or more
Percentage
Inco
me
pe
r p
ers
on
Table 2 Nanakwa Income Comparison
20072001
Copper was first mined in O’kiep in 1855. It is the oldest mining town in South Africa. The village
of O’kiep gets its name from the Nama word “U-gieb” meaning the great brackish spring. The
mine closed during the copper slump of 1919, but reopened in 1937.
Metorex Ltd. of South Africa operated the O’kiep copper smelter. It was shut down in 2004
because of resource depletion.
The closure of mines has a devastating socio-economic impact on the region if an alternative
source of livelihoods to sustain the post-mining economy in the area is not identified.
To ascertain the extent of some of these effects, an analysis comparing socio economic pre mine
closure (using Stats SA Census data, 2001) to post mine closure (Stats SA Community Survey
data 2007) is done. The data is interrogated on a local municipal level (Nama Khoi being the
local municipality in which the O’kiep mine is located) and on a district municipal level (Namakwa
being the district municipality). The latter offers a point of comparison for the local municipal data.
The population in both the region and the local municipality has increased during the 6 year
comparison period.
Table 1 Population Size
Census 2001 CS 2007
Namakwa 108 111 126 494
Nama Khoi 44 750 54 644
There has been a significant decrease in income at both the regional and local municipal level. In
2001 3% of residents had no income, and this has increased to 45% in 2007 (the same
percentages at a regional and local level) (Table 2 and 3). The difference however is that on a
regional level a shift was from people earning R 1 – R 800 to having no income, whilst in Nama
Khoi it is from people earning R1601 – R 6400 to having no income. In other words, in the region,
people that previously did not have a reliable source of income, currently have no source of
income. In Nama Khoi people appear to have lost their reliable source of income.
Whilst the mining and quarrying sector continues to grow in the Namakwa region (Table 4), the
closure of the O’kiep mine in Nama Khoi has
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resulted in mining no longer being the dominant employment provider in the area. The loss of
income mentioned above can thus be attributed to a lower percentage of residents involved in
the mining and quarrying sector. In 2001 it was the predominant employment provider in Nama
Khoi whilst in 2007 community, social and personal services has become the dominant industry
(Table 5).
According to a report study by Urban –Econ, trade catering and accommodation is the second
largest employment provider in the region after mining. It is possible that this accounts for the
growth in community, social and personal services in the Nama Khoi area (this is not a category
in the Stats SA data). This industry’s contribution to employment however remains small.
Table 6 Historical Performance and Prioritisations of Sectors in Namakwa
0 5 10 15 20 25
Agriculture; hunting; forestry and fishing
Mining and quarrying
Manufacturing
Electricity; gas and water supply
Construction
Wholesale and retail trade
Transport; storage and communication
Financial; insurance; real estate and business…
Community; social and personal services
Other and not adequately defined
Percentage
Ind
ust
ry
Table 4 Namakwa Industry Comparison
2007
2001
0 10 20 30 40
Agriculture; hunting; forestry and fishing
Mining and quarrying
Manufacturing
Electricity; gas and water supply
Construction
Wholesale and retail trade
Transport; storage and communication
Financial; insurance; real estate and business…
Community; social and personal services
Other and not adequately defined
Percentage
Ind
ust
ry
Table 5 Nama Khoi Industry Comparison
2007
2001
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Sector Contribution to GDP
(2007)
Contribution to
GDP (2007)
Contribution to
Employment
Agriculture, forestry & fishing 4.4% 18.0%
Mining 52.3% 21.3%
Manufacturing 1.9% 4.6%
Electricity & water 0.4% 0.3%
Construction 1.6% 6.7%
Trade; catering & accommodation 13.2% 14.5%
Transport & communication 4.6% 2.2%
Finance & business services 7.9% 7.3%
Community, social & personal 6.6% 12.0%
General government services 7.2% 13.0%
A mine closure results in a devastating socio economic impact on an area. The degree of this
impact is dependent on the strategies adopted by mines. Additionally it is imperative that new
economic activities are identified. According to the Department of Economic Affairs and Tourism,
with proper planning and co-ordination, fishing and mariculture, agriculture and tourism could
lead to rejuvenation of the Namakwaland economy.
Nama Khoi is located too far from the ocean (80
km’s) for fishing and mariculture to be a viable
source of income. Thus agriculture (which has
not shown much growth between 2001 at 7.1%
and 8.1% in 2007) and tourism become the most
likely employment providers. In terms of
agriculture, environmental conditions are
condusive to cattle, goat and sheep farming.
Growth is however threatened by desertification
as a result of climate change (combined with poor
agricultural practices, such as over-grazing and
incorrect irrigation techniques). The natural wealth of Namakwa flora & fauna, coupled with close
proximity to the Goegap Nature Reserve lends itself to tourism although the seasonality of the
tourism market and poor marketing of the area remains an obstacle.
The negative environmental effects of mining have been alleviated
during the closure of the mine. Thuthuka Project Managers, a water-
engineering company assisted in the rehabilitation and closure of
operations and the management of the accompanying polluted water.
They were also involved in the removal and rehabilitation of
infrastructure and rehabilitating the remaining footprint by top-soiling and
vegetating.
Metorex O’kiep Copper Company donated 1 200 houses to the
employees and 7 700 hectares of land to the district council for
communal use.
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However the O’kiep mine closed 5 years ago and alternative economic activities are yet to be
established. Socio economic devastation in the area is rife as is demonstrated by the high
unemployment rates and low income earned.
The largest remaining inland mine is the Black Mountain Mine in Aggeneys. This
mine which mines zinc, lead, copper and, silver, was scheduled for closure in
August 2002. However a new ore body “New Deeps” was discovered which has
prolonged the planned life of mine. The mine operations are currently focussed
upon exploiting this ore body, which includes a new open cast project, the
Gamsberg Project, which still requires development.
This mine is located in the Black Mountain Nature Reserve and as such the
expansion of the mine has excited controversy owing to the negative impacts
that the mine will have on the ecology of the mining area. These negative
impacts must be considered in future.
4.3.5 Agriculture
The NDM produces livestock consisting of beef cattle, sheep, goats, ostrich and
game farming. Agriculture is one of the most important aspects of the NDM’s
economy. Stock farming, flower bulbs and wool production are also important
contributors to the agricultural sector. The region is also involved in game
farming and food production for the local and international market.
The Karoo Hoogland and Hantam Local Municipalities are the major agricultural
centres where stock farming is the main economic sector. Wool production and
mohair are also produced within the NDM at Calvinia, Fraserburg and
Loeriesfontein. Kamiesberg, Nama Khoi, Hantam and Karoo Hoogland Local
Municipalities are the main centres for the cultivation of various crops such as
Lucerne (i.e. near Alexander Bay), wheat and rooibos. Niewoudtville within the
Hantam Local Municipality is the rooibos and bulb production centre. Pella within
the Khai Ma Local Municipality is a fruit production centre where dates, figs,
grapes and pomegranates are grown. In the Orange River Valley, especially at
Kakamas and Keimoes, fruit (i.e. grapes) is cultivated intensively. The main
crops cultivated along the Orange River corridor are grapes, dates, essential
oils, Hoodia, and a variety of cash crops. Cabbage and lettuce are also grown
seasonally in the irrigated areas.
Sheep farming towns include Lekkersing, Kuboes, Calvinia, Steinkopf,
Nieuwoudtville, Loeriesfontein, Garies, Sutherland, Williston, Fraserburg,
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Brandvlei; Middelpos and Pofadder. Ostrich farming is found near Alexander Bay
and near Aggeneys.
Mariculture activities are located at Port Nolloth and Hondeklipbaai and focus on
oysters and some experimental farming of abalone.
The following information was provided by Mr. Sakkie van der Poll – District
Manager, Namakwa.
Table 35 Types of farming within the NDM
Local Municipality Type Of Farming
Nama Khoi Livestock and Crop Production
Kamiesberg Livestock and Crop Production
Hantam Livestock and Crop Production
Karoo Hoogland Livestock and Crop Production
Richtersveld Livestock and Crop Production
Khai Ma Livestock and Crop Production
Table 36 Types of crops within the NDM
Local Municipality Types Of Crops
Nama Khoi: Irrigation - Lower Orange River at
Henkries and Goodhouse
Dates, mangoes, Lucerne, runner crops
Kamiesberg: Kamiesberg area Small grains (dry land)
Hantam: Sak River flood plains Seed onions and Lucerne
Richtersveld: Irrigation – Lower Orange River
at Beauvallon
Mainly Lucerne
Khai Ma: Irrigation – Lower Orange River
1. Onseepkans
2. Pella
3. Witbank
4. Coboop
1. Grapes, pomegranates, Lucerne Rose
Geranium
2. Vegetables, runner crops, Lucerne Rose
Geranium
3. Lucerne
4. Citrus, mangoes, Lucerne and runner
crops.
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4.3.6 Infrastructure and Service Provision
Roads and Transport
There are two major routes within the NDM. The major south/north corridor,
the N7 National Road passes through Springbok, Garies and Kamieskroon
towns. The N7 National Road has been widened between Springbok and
Garies but there is need for further upgrading of the N7. The major east
west corridor is the N14 which connects O’kiep to Pofadder. The N14
continues to Upington and then into the Gauteng Province.
Most of the roads within the Namakwa DM are not tarred roads. These
roads are mostly gravel roads and are often in poor condition. The low
quality of the access roads within the District also negatively affects the
services delivery to the area.
Roads from Calvinia in Hantam Local Municipality have been tarred to
Cape Town, Springbok, Upington and Kimberley. There are railways from
Calvinia to Sak River and eastwards inland but these railways are not in
use and are in very poor condition.
The state of the roads within the Richtersveld Local Municipality is very
poor and in need of upgrade with most of the roads between the rural
towns being gravel roads.
Kamiesberg Local Municipality is the only municipality in the NDM with all
roads being gravel roads. These roads are in poor condition and need
upgrading.
Table 37 Transport Mode within the Northern Cape Province and the NDM
(Census, 2001)
Mode of Transport to
work/school Northern Cape Namakwa DM
On foot 31.91% 32.61%
By bicycle 0.79% 0.63%
By motorcycle 0.16% 0.15%
By car as a driver 4.38% 4.96%
By car as a passenger 4.21% 3.95%
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By minibus/taxi 3.30% 1.39%
By bus 2.94% 5.12%
By train 0.09% 0.00%
Transport: Other 0.81% 0.89%
Transport: Not applicable 51.41% 50.25%
Table 37 above indicates that the main mode of transport is walking with
32.61% and the cars, buses and minibuses / taxis being the second most
used modes of transport.
It is important to note that the people living within the NDM have limited
capacity to travel sometimes long distances between different cities and
towns. Improved public transport will positively impact the local people and
the economy of the region.
Water and Sanitation
The majority of households within the NDM have access to piped water
inside the dwelling, yard or from an access point outside the yard.
Table 38 Percentage distribution of households by type of water source in the NDM
(Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Households CS 2007 Census 2001
Piped water
inside the dwelling 64.4% 47.4%
inside the yard 28% 39.2%
from access point outside the yard 3.1% 9.4%
Borehole 2.5% 0.8%
Spring 0.1% 0.2%
Dam/pool 0.2% 0.3%
River/stream 0.4% 0.6%
Water vendor 0.2% 0.1%
Rainwater tank 0.4% 0.6%
Other 0.8% 1.5%
Total 100% 100%
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Table 38 above indicates that the number of households that have access
to piped water inside the dwelling has increased from 47.4% as indicated in
the 2001 Census to 64.4% as indicated in the 2007 Community Survey. It is
also noted that the number of households that have access to piped water
inside the yard has decreased from 39.2% as indicated in the 2001 Census
to 28% as indicated in the 2007 Community Survey.
The information below was provided by Richtersveld Local Municipality.
The water sources for the Richtersveld Local Municipality are the Orange
River and boreholes. The Orange River forms the northern boundary of the
Richtersveld Local Municipality. The towns that benefit from the Orange
River include: Sendelingsdrift, Sanddrif, Kuboes, Brandkaros, Beauvallon,
Klengel, Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth.
Borehole water is provided for the following towns and areas:
Kuboes;
Lekkersing;
Eksteenfontein;
Port Nolloth;
The Commonage area of the Richtersveld Municipal Area; and
Richtersveld National Park.
The water is used for household consumption and agricultural activities as
well as for industrial activities (i.e. diamond mining).
Khai Ma Local Municipality water sources information was provided by the
Khai Ma Local Municipality.
Pofadder, Pella, Onseepkans, Witbank and Aggeneys depend on the
Orange River as a water source for water supply. There are no dams or
catchment areas within the Khai Ma Local Municipality. Water is extracted
near Pella and is distributed to a nearby water purification plant - PellaDrift
Water Board Plant, and then the water is pumped to the towns of Pella,
Pofadder and Aggeneys.
In the case of Witbank (diesel pump) and Onseepkans (electrical pump),
water is extracted from the Orange River. The water is pumped into
conventional plastic tanks where the purification process takes place. There
are a number of boreholes, but predominantly on the commercial farms, to
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provide water for the sheep and cattle. Water from boreholes on these
farms is also used for human consumption.
In the case of Witbank, Onseepkans and Pella (to a lesser extent) water
from the Orange River is also used for agricultural purposes alongside the
banks of the river.
The following information was provided by the Kamiesberg Local
Municipality.
The water sources within the Kamiesberg Local Municipality are boreholes.
The list below indicates the number and location of these boreholes.
Garies: Source 1; Source 2; Leliekloof; Voëlfontein; Putpomp;
Roodebergkloof;
Kheis: LF 90 146 and LF 90 29;
Lepelfontein: LF90-201 and G45821;
Kharkams/Tweerivier: G39001, G39007 and LF90-201;
Klipfontein: LF90-207;
Spoegrivier: LF90-208;
Soebatsfontein: Soebat-1 and Borehole B;
Leliefontein: LF131414-3;
Rooifontein: LF90-102;
Kamassies: KAM99-1;
Paulshoek: G45815;
Nourivier: LF98 -314; and
Kamieskroon: Kardou and Letterkop.
Water from the above-mentioned boreholes is used for consumption as well
as for industrial use. Agriculture activities use their own borehole water.
There are five desalination plants in the Kamiesberg Local Municipality and
they are located in Kheis, Lepelfontein, Spoegrivier, Soebatsfontein and
Klipfontein.
The information regarding water sources for the Hantam Local Municipality
was provided by the Hantam Local Municipality.
Calvinia is the only town within the Hantam Local Municipality that has a
dam - the Karee Dam: 1 000 000 ml which is fed by the Karee River and
catchment from the Hantam mountains to the north of the town. Boreholes
are utilized for emergencies. There are eight boreholes within Calvinia that
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supply water for the town consumption. These boreholes are located as
follows: Calvinia Nature Reserve, Golf course, Witwal Farm, Willemsrus
Farm, Akkerenddam, Ramskop Farm with two boreholes at Downes Farm.
All the other towns including Nieuwoudtville, Loeriesfontein, Brandvlei and
Middelpos utilize boreholes for water supply. There are seven boreholes
located within Nieuwoudtville. These seven boreholes are located on
Oustal Farm (municipal land).
Loeriesfontein has seven boreholes but only six are in use. These
boreholes are located as follows: three boreholes on the Golf course; one
borehole at the Shooting range; three boreholes on the Hoek van Berg
Farm with only two operational boreholes. Middelpos has one borehole
which is located on the Middelpos Farm.
Brandvlei is supplied by six boreholes located on the Romanskolk Farm,
approximately 45km east of Brandvlei.
The earth dam – Romans Dam, is used to harvest rainwater for the
boreholes. The water gravitates from the 190ml reservoir on the farm for
approximately 45km to Brandvlei to a 536ml reservoir and a 90ml overhead
reservoir from where it is distributed for household consumption in
Brandvlei. The current issue in this area is that the hard borehole water is
causing limescale deposits in the water network. This affects the water
pipes which become completely blocked and water meters need regular
maintenance for proper operation.
The following information was provided by the Nama Khoi Local
Municipality.
The water sources within the Nama Khoi Local Municipality include the
Orange River and ten boreholes. The main water supply is piped from the
Orange River. From the ten existent boreholes, eight are located in
Komaggas. These boreholes are located as follows: one borehole is
located on the south side of Komaggas; two are located southeast of town;
three boreholes are located in the centre of town and two are located on
the east side outside of town. There are two boreholes in Buffelsrivier and
they are located on the south side of town. The water from these boreholes
is used for household consumption.
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The following information was provided by the Karoo Hoogland Local
Municipality.
All the water within the Karoo Hoogland comes from boreholes. These
boreholes are located within Fraserburg, Williston and Sutherland and are
listed below:
Fraserburg:
o Rante Pump on Rante Road
o Jaap’s Pump on the Rante Road
o Williston Pump on Williston Road
o Nuwedam Pump at the Nuwedam
o Van Tonder Pump, next to the old power station
Williston:
o Pump No. 6 on Brandvlei Road
o Pump No. 9 on Carnavon Road
o Pump No. 10 on Carnavon Road
o Overflow Pump on Carnavon Road
Sutherland:
o One pump on the road to Matjiesfontein
o One pump above the town
o One pump next to the Rugby field
The water from the above mentioned boreholes is used exclusively for
household consumption. No borehole water is used for agriculture or
industrial uses.
Table 39 Percentage distribution of households by type of toilet facilities in the NDM
(Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Sanitation Type CS 2007 Census 2001
Flush toilet (connected to sewerage system) 67% 50.3%
Flush toilet (with septic tank) 5.8% 10.9%
Dry toilet facility 13.1% -
Chemical toilet 6.8% 2.1%
Pit latrine with ventilation (VIP) 1.4% 5.2%
Pit latrine without ventilation 0.3% 4.9%
Bucket latrine 2.4% 16.7%
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Sanitation Type CS 2007 Census 2001
None 3.2% 9.8%
Total 100% 100%
Table 21 above indicates that the number of households with access to
flush toilets (connected to sewerage system) has increased from 50.3% as
indicated by the 2001 Census to 67% as indicated by the 2007 Community
Survey. The number of households with no toilet facilities has decreased
from 9.8% (Census, 2001) to 3.2% (Community Survey, 2007).
Electricity
The majority of the households within the NDM have access to electricity in
their homes.
The town of Witbank within the Khai Ma Local Municipality has no access
to electricity.
All the rural towns in the Richtersveld Local Municipality are directly
supplied with electricity from Eskom. Eksteenfontein has continuous
problems with its supply, despite being upgraded. Alexander Bay
experiences problems with its high tension network and Port Nolloth’s low
tension network needs upgrading or replacing.
All towns within Hantam Local Municipality are supplied with electricity from
Eskom, except Nieuwoudtville which has a municipality supply. All the rural
towns in the Hantam Local Municipality use generators as the main source
of energy.
In the Kamiesberg Local Municipality the electricity grid is fragmented and
does not form a coherent backbone connected to the National Grid
(Kamiesberg Municipality, IDP 2008/2009).
Table 40 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for
lighting within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Lighting Energy CS 2007 Census 2001
Electricity 91.4% 75.7%
Gas 0.6% 0.3%
Paraffin 0.6% 2.8%
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Lighting Energy CS 2007 Census 2001
Candles 5.1% 17.5%
Solar 0.9% 2.4%
Other 1.4% 1.2%
Total 100% 100%
Table 40 above indicates that the number of households with access to
electricity has increased from 75.7% (Census, 2001) to 91.4% (Community
Survey, 2007). This resulted in the reduction of the number of households
using paraffin from 2.8% (Census, 2001) to 0.6% (Community Survey,
2007) and the number of households using candles from 17.5% (Census,
2001) to 5.1% (Community Survey, 2007). No significant changes were
noted between the 2001 Census and the 2007 Community Survey for the
other sources of energy / fuel used for lighting.
Table 41 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used for
heating within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Heating Energy CS 2007 Census 2001
Electricity 85.7% 56.4%
Gas 1.5% 3%
Paraffin 0.8% 2.2%
Wood 10.1% 30.2%
Coal 0.3% 0.6%
Animal dung 0% 0.1%
Sola 0.5% 0.2%
Other 1% 7.3%
Total 100% 100%
Table 23 above indicates that the number of households using electricity for
heating has increased from 56.4% (Census, 2001) to 85.7% (Community
Survey, 2007). This resulted in a decrease in the number of households
using wood for heating from 30.2% (Census, 2001) to 10.1% (Community
Survey, 2007) and other sources of energy have also decreased from 7.3%
(Census, 2001) to 1% (Community Survey, 2001). No significant changes
were noted between the 2001 Census and the 2007 Community Survey for
the other types of energy/fuel used for heating.
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Table 42 Percentage distribution of households by type of energy/fuel used
for cooking within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Cooking Energy CS 2007 Census 2001
Electricity 88.2% 62.8%
Gas 5.1% 17.6%
Paraffin 0.9% 2.4%
Wood 4.2% 15.9%
Coal 0.1% 0.7
Animal dung - 0.2%
Sola 0.4% 0.2%
Other 1.1% 0.2%
Total 100% 100%
Table 24 above indicates that the number of households by type of
energy/fuel used for cooking increased from 62.8% (Census, 2001) to
88.2% (Community Survey, 2007). This resulted in a decrease in the
number of households using gas from 17.6% (Census, 2001) to 5.1%
(Community Survey, 2007) and in the number of households using wood
from 15.9% (Census, 2001) to 4.2% (Community Survey, 2007). No
significant changes were noted between the 2001 Census and the 2007
Community Survey’s data regarding the other types of energy/fuel used for
cooking.
Health Facilities
There are twenty fixed clinics within the NDM: three in Khai Ma, nine in
Nam Khoi, three in Richtersveld, two in Kamiesberg and three in Hantam.
These clinics are operational eight hours a day and five days a week.
Port Nolloth has a hospital which is poorly equipped and a clinic which is
without any doctors. Alexander Bay has a well equipped 26-bed hospital
which functions as a private hospital for the people who can afford its
services.
In the rural towns of Richtersveld Local Municipality there are two full-time
sisters: one based at Kuboes and the other at Lekkersing. The sister in
Kuboes goes to Sanddrif twice a week and the sister in Lekkersing goes to
Eksteenfontein once a week. All rural towns have ambulances available.
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Port Nolloth has an ambulance and Alexander Bay features an emergency
unit that is fully equipped and has a back up ambulance available.
There are also satellite clinic facilities within the NDM: four in Khai Ma,
eight in Nama Khoi, four in Richtersveld, thirteen in Kamiesberg and one in
Hantam. These clinics are operational for about eight hours a day fewer
than five days a week.
According to the Department of Health, in NDM the satellite facilities are
understaffed and only 3 professional nurses serve all the clinics within the
area (Kamiesberg Municipality, IDP 2006-2011).
Health care facilities in the area also include mobile services in the form of
mobile buses for the rural areas. They operate on a weekly basis, or once
every second week and on a monthly basis.
Police Stations
There are twenty-three police stations within the NDM: five are located in
Nama Khoi, five in Karoo Hoogland, four in Kamiesberg, two in
Richtersveld, four in Hantam and three in Khai Ma. It is noted that the
highest number of police stations is found within the Nama Khoi Local
Municipality and the lowest number is found within the Richtersveld Local
Municipality.
There are forty six libraries within the NDM: four in Hantam, four in Karoo
Hoogland, fourteen in Nama Khoi, seven in Richtersveld, five in Khai Ma
and twelve in Kamiesberg.
Information Technology
Approximately 31.5% of the households within the District have access to
telephone facilities in their homes. 56.6% of households have a cellular
phone. A small percentage of households 5.1% have access to internet
facilities.
The Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality will be introducing the Karoo
Hoogland Computer Project which will provide local community access to
computer facilities. There is also a Community Soup Kitchen project which
will be undertaken within the Karoo Hoogland.
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Waste Management and Recycling
Solid waste in the NDM is currently managed by the six local municipalities.
The local mines manage their own waste.
Table 43 Percentage distribution of households by type of refuse disposal
within the NDM (Community Survey 2007 and Census, 2001)
Refuse Disposal CS 2007 Census 2001
Removed by local
authority/private company
at least once a week 85.5% 73.1%
less often 3% 2.5%
Communal refuse dump 0.6% 0.9%
Own refuse dump 9.6% 21%
No rubbish disposal 0.8% 2.5%
Other 0.4% -
Total 100% 100%
Table 43 above indicates that the number of households that have their
disposal removed by local authority or private company at least once a
week has increased from 73.1% (Census, 2001) to 85.5% (Community
Survey, 2007). It is also noted that the number of households that use their
own refuse dump had decreased from 21% (Census, 2001) to 9.6%
(Community Survey, 2007). No significant changes were noted between the
2001 Census and the 2007 Community Survey’s data regarding the other
types of refuse disposal. The majority of the households within the NDM
have access to waste removal by local authority/private company at least
once a week. A very small percentage of 0.8% (Community Survey, 2007)
has no access to rubbish disposal facilities.
Table 44 Percentage distribution of households by type of refuse disposal by local
municipalities (Community Survey 2007)
Type of Refuse
Disposal Richtersveld
Nama
Khoi Kamiesberg Hantam
Karoo
Hoogland
Khai
Ma DMA
Removed by local
authority/private
company
at least once a week 82.4% 92.5% 80.3% 87.7% 69.6% 81,6 9,5
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less often 6.8% 2.1% 5.1% - 1.3% 6,2 5,3
Communal refuse
dump 1.6% 0.5% - 0.4% 0.4% 0,9 7,5
Own refuse dump 6.3% 4% 13.5% 10.7% 27.1% 10,7 73,0
No rubbish disposal 1.6% 0.7% - 1.2% 1% 0,6 4,5
Other 1.3% 0.2% 1.1% - 0.7% - -
Total
100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Table 44 above indicates that the majority of households within the local
municipalities have access to refuse disposal removed by local
authority/private company at least once a week.
In Port Nolloth, waste is collected on a weekly basis using a compactor
truck which currently needs upgrading. In the rural towns of the
Richtersveld Local Municipality waste is collected in open trucks except for
Lekkersing which has a closed truck.
The District Management Area has the highest number of households that
handle their own domestic waste and this is due to the isolated nature of
the region.
Witbank within Khai Ma Local Municipality has no access to refuse
removal.
Within the Richtersveld Local Municipality there is large scale informal
dumping of waste and landfill sites are not managed.
The following statistics are recorded for the Kamiesberg Local Municipality:
71% have waste removed by the local authority at least once a week; 26 %
have their own refuse dump, 2% have waste removed by local authority
less often and 1% has no rubbish disposal (NDM, Integrated Waste
Management Plan for Kamiesberg Municipality, 2006).
The information in the table below which includes the mixed use landfill
sites within the NDM was supplied by Mr. Willem Auret from the NDM.
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Table 45 Landfill sites mixed use within the NDM.
Landfill Sites – Mixed Use Municipality
Black Mountain Aggeneys Khai Ma
Black Mountain Zuurwater Khai Ma
Transhex reuning Richtersveld
Transhex Baken (old site) Richtersveld
Alexkor Richtersveld
Buffelsriver Nama Khoi
Komaggas Transitional Council Nama Khoi
Steinkopf Nama Khoi
Paulshoek Kamiesberg
Kheis Kamiesberg
Klipfontein Kamiesberg
Rooifontein Kamaasses Kamiesberg
Lepelfontein Kamiesberg
Spoegrivier Kamiesberg
Rooifontein (closure) Kamiesberg
Lekkersing Richtersveld
Sanddrift Richtersveld
Eksteenfontein Richtersveld
Khuboes Richtersveld
Karkhams Kamiesberg
Tweerivier Kamiesberg
Klein Nourivier Kamiesberg
Port Nolloth Richtersveld
Springbok Nama Khoi
Kamieskroon Kamiesberg
Loerisfontein Hantam
Soebatsfontein Kamiesberg
Brandvlei Hantam
Onseepkans Khai Ma
Giftop Alexkor Richtersveld
Onseepkans Sendling Khai Ma
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Landfill Sites – Mixed Use Municipality
Calvinia Hantam
Vaalputs Kamiesberg
Gamsberg Richtersveld
Baken (new site) Richtersveld
De Beers Annex Kleinzee HSD Nama Khoi
De Beers Kleinzee Salvage Dump Nama Khoi
De Beers Kleinzee Town GRD Nama Khoi
De Beers Kleinzee Town Dreyers Pan DRD Nama Khoi
De Beers Kleinzee Town Koiingnaas RHS Kamiesberg
De Beers Kleinzee Town BRS Nama Khoi
De Beers Buffels Inland Complex
Langlaagte HS
Nama Khoi
De Beers Buffels Inland Complex Nutabooi
SSD
Nama Khoi
De Beers Buffels Inland Complex
Langhoogte SS
Nama Khoi
De Beers Buffels Marine Complex Annex
Kleinzee
Nama Khoi
De Beers Buffels Marine Complex Tweepad
SS
Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas MHSD Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Complex MSS Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Complex Mitchellsbay
SS
Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Town GRD Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Town BR Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Town HS Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Town DRD Kamiesberg
De Beers Koiingnaas Town Hostel KR Kamiesberg
De Beer Mitchellsbay HSD Kamiesberg
De Beers Tweepad HSD Richtersveld
De Beers Samsons Bak CRD Nama Khoi
Brandkaros (Alexkor) Richtersveld
Beauvallon Richtersveld
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The Integrated Waste Management Plan for NDM (Jeffares and Green, and
Ingerop Africa, April 2006) provides the following information regarding
waste management within the NDM.
The estimated total waste for the NDM is approximately 22 600
tons per year, the majority being household waste.
Waste generation is estimated at 0.5kg per household per day
for the low income class; 0.7kg per household per day for the
middle income class and 1kg per household per day for the
high income class.
76% of the households within the NDM have access to
municipal waste removal services while 24% of the households
manage their own waste.
There are no waste collection services in the rural areas and
domestic waste is dumped in local holes and burnt.
The general waste types include domestic waste, business
waste, industrial waste, garden refusal and building waste.
Vaalputs, located 100kms southeast of Springbok features a
500-1000 ha of land developed for low and intermediate
intensity radioactive waste. For the past fifteen years
radioactive waste has been transported from Koeberg to
Vaalputs.
Most waste recycling activities in the region are managed by
private companies.
With regards to recycling, waste minimisation is generally not undertaken
within the District. There are no large scales recycling projects within the
NDM.
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CHAPTER 5. STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
PLAN
A Strategic Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) presents a management
framework and specifications for a large geographic area. This framework and
specifications are to be followed, at project level, by Environmental Impact
Assessments and their associated Environmental Management Plans. SEMPs
do not replace these documents since the scale of the SEMP is necessarily
different, and larger, than that used from a project level study. However the
project level study should takes its lead from the framework and specification
detailed in the SEMP.
Since SEMPs consider a larger geographic area than EIA and project level
EMPs, SEMPS are in the unique position of being able to identify aspects where
cumulative impacts of development projects will have an increasingly negative
impact on the environmental. SEMPs can warn of these areas of cumulative
impact and thus allow better management of the environment.
In addition SEMPs prescribe mitigation of possible impacts through
environmental guidelines and monitoring requirements.
5.1 Environmental Management Planning Considerations
As a result of the Status Quo investigation in the study area, each environmental
aspect under consideration offers opportunities and constraints. Opportunities
represent the environmental features that are underexploited or that have not
been exploited before in the District. Constraints are the environmental
resources that will be harmed through uncontrolled development. Damage to
these resources will impact negatively upon the population in the study area.
The opportunities and constraints are distilled into strategic issues. The strategic
issues are the issues that require management in terms of the SEMP.
Management of each issue is addressed using the following model
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Management of the Element – what are the strategic issues
that management should consider when addressing this aspect
of the environment and what should the management
responses to these issues?
Monitoring Indicators – how should progress in achieving these
objectives be measured?
Desired State of the Environment – describes the final goal of
the management interventions and what aspects of the
environment would be in place if the element management is
successful.
The section that follows serves to develop the vision, the legislative framework
within which environmental management operates and then to provide the
strategic planning issues that should be considered by all environmental
managers in the NDM.
Strategic objectives have been formulated as a means to managing and
minimizing the impact of development on the environment. The approach used
included formulating strategic issues that would retain the environmental
opportunities as well as setting requirements to ensure that environmental
constraints are identified early in the development cycle. Management
responses follow best practice approaches and minimum requirements from a
legal compliance point of view.
The management responses are provided to give environmental managers the
key, and most highly prioritised responses to each strategic issue, which will
assist in achieving the desired state of the environment.
Indicators serve to track performance in relation to the specific strategic
objectives.
5.2 Vision for the Environment
The vision for the NDM is as follows:
“To ensure that economic and social development in the NDM advances to
meet inhabitants’ needs whilst ensuring that environmental goods and
services are protected where stressed and used where sustainable”.
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The fundamental principles that should be applied to attain the vision
include:
Present and future generations must be assured of a healthy and
productive life;
The ecological integrity, biodiversity and physical attributes of the
district should be protected and sustainably utilised;
The impacts of development must be minimized and managed;
Emissions and discharges of pollutants onto soils, air and water must
not exceed the limits of nature;
The cultural and historical features should be preserved;
The opportunities for tourism, ecotourism and sustainable land use
should be explored and expanded;
Emerging technologies requiring open spaces for implementation
should be encouraged;
Adequate infrastructure provision should be made available to all
inhabitants, with due regard to environmental sustainability;
Renewable resources should be efficiently utilized so as to protect
natural systems;
Employment opportunities and business development strategies using
techniques that take advantage of the natural attributes of the district’s
environment and opportunities for income must be created; and
A high degree of environmental awareness should be encouraged
amongst all development planning and implementation entities, be they
public or private.
5.2.1 Natural Environment
The vision is to protect and promote the:
Natural vegetation and ecosystems;
Existing vegetation as an erosion control measure;
Viable agricultural areas;
Existing game reserves and parks;
Protected area network should be expanded
Prohibit development or impacts on critically important biodiversity
sites;
Preserve the visual appeal of the high ridges and mountains in the
NDM;
Natural veld through the management of overgrazing;
Sustainable utilization of biodiversity
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Use of Orange River water resource to encourage irrigation farming;
Implement the NDM Bioregional Plan;
Wise utilisation of Surface water sources; and
Wise utilisation of Groundwater resources;
In addition, the vision includes preventing or halting:
Developing on steep slopes and ridges;
Developing or impacting upon critical biodiversity areas;
Locating or expanding human settlements to areas of high quality or
viable agricultural land;
Any activity that will add to the pollution loads of groundwater sources;
Any activity that will unsustainably utilise groundwater sources;
Polluting rivers;
Urban sprawl – limit the footprint of existing human settlements are far
as practical and
Illegal or unsustainable use of biodiversity.
5.2.2 Socio-Economic Environment
The vision is to protect and promote the:
Activities that provide low skilled workers with a means to an income;
Access to studies and environmental information;
Local Economic Development Plan for NDM;
Cultural and historical sites, statues and buildings that occur in the
area;
Tourism in all its forms;
Educational leverage provided by large scale technological projects
being established in the NDM;
Information on the natural and cultural heritage that is stored in
publicly unavailable formats to inform environmental and local
authorities of such resources;
Establishment of well managed mining projects;
The proper use of sites accessible to the public by means of tourism-
related infrastructure to protect the sites.
In addition, the vision includes preventing or halting:
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Unplanned or poorly planned development that may impact negatively
on tourism;
The visual impact of development in mountainous areas or ridgelines;
Informal settlement growth; and
Exodus of the youth and skilled workers from the NDM;
5.2.3 Services Environment
The vision is to protect and promote:
Development of appropriate infrastructure;
Secure water supplies for all human settlements by improvements in
water treatment technology;
Establishment of high capacity data and voice links between
settlements;
Road infrastructure, particularly roads leading to tourism areas;
Operation of waste management facilities in accordance with the
license conditions;
Secure water supplies for small livestock, thereby encouraging
concentration and control and reducing reliance on wetlands for
livestock watering;
Provision of sewage services to rural areas by means of appropriate
technologies, but not septic tanks or VIP toilets.
In addition, the vision includes preventing or halting:
Poorly managed sewer treatment works;
The establishment of on-site sanitation schemes;
The operation of illegal waste management facilities.
5.2.4 Land Use Environment
The vision is to protect and promote the:
Irrigated agricultural activity using the Orange River resource, in the
northern areas of the NDM;
Agricultural practice that reduced groundwater pollution; and
The use of large areas for emerging technologies such as wind and
solar energy generation;
Overgrazing and
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Mining
In addition, the vision includes preventing or halting:
Extensive small livestock farming as a traditional activity; and
Informal settlements;
5.2.5 Policy Environment
The vision is to protect and promote:
Use of sustainable environmental practice through the use of the EMF
in conjunction with EIAs;
Inclusion of environmental principles into the town planning process;
Use of environmental enforcement of legislation to limit destruction of
environmental resources;
Establishment of a regular environmental co-ordinating committee
which oversees environmental issues in the NDM;
Institution of monitoring and liability assessments;
Improvement the timeframe for the EIA studies;
Provision of guidance through policy and strategic direction;
Ensuring the application of the existing regulations;
Ensuring staff and institutional capacity; and
Ensuring political leadership towards protection of the environment.
5.3 Legislative Framework
Development and conservation planning must be contextualised within the
framework of national government, provincial government, district municipality
and local municipality’s legal, regulatory and policy.
Environmental law provides mechanisms for the management and conservation
of environmental features and the sustainability of new developments. The
importance of environment management is to make responsible use of natural,
economic and human resources in ways that protect and improve the
environment.
Environment law is divided into various sections and most laws applicable to
protection and management of the environment were developed to protect and
manage specific sectors.
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The most common laws applicable to environment management are described in
Section 5.3.1 with an explanation of the management of various environmental
features in Section 5.3.2.
5.3.1 Environmental Law
5.3.1.1 The Constitution of South Africa (108 of 1996)
Environmental Rights
Section 24 of the Constitution deals with Environmental Rights and gives
the right to all citizens:
“to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well being; and to
have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future
generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that:
o Prevent pollution and ecological degradation
o Promote conservation; and
o Secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural
resources while promoting justifiable economic and social
development”.
The Constitution of South Africa is the highest form of law enforceable on
any individual or organisation. This section therefore provides the basic
environmental rights to all citizens to safe and healthy environment.
5.3.1.2 National Environmental Management Amended Act (62 of 2008)
The NEMA is considered the overarching act in terms of environmental
legislation. Every act that relates to environmental matters is directly or
indirectly linked to the NEMA and provisions are made in acts that followed
publication of NEMA 1998 to accommodate conditions specified in various
acts.
The NEMAA act was promulgated in 2008 and was aimed at substituting
certain definitions, further regulating environmental authorisations and to
effect certain textual alterations.
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NEMAA provides for cooperative governance and establishes principles for
decision-making on matters affecting the environment such as:
o People and their needs must be placed at the forefront of
environment management;
o Development must be sustainable and therefore requires
avoidances of pollution and degradation of the environment,
disturbances of landscapes and sites of cultural heritage
o The integrated nature of the environment and that responsibility for
environmental management exists throughout the life cycle of an
activity (from cradle to grave);
o Public Participation;
o Transparent decision making; and
o Intergovernmental co-ordination and harmonisation of policies,
legislation and actions.
Chapter Five of NEMA provides for Integrated Environmental Management
and defines the general objectives of IEM. Minimum procedures are laid
down with respect to investigating, assessing and communicating the
potential impacts of activities.
Section 24 of NEMA provides for Environmental Management Frameworks
through provisions for the identification of sensitive and geographical areas.
Chapter Eight of NEMA specifies the sensitive and geographical areas
mentioned above and maps created as a result thereof to be used as
environmental management framework.
5.3.1.3 National Environmental Laws Amendment Act (14 of 2009)
The above-mentioned act amended various sections of an array of laws
related to environmental management. Below is a summary of amended
laws:
Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act, 1965,;
Environment Conservation Act, 1989;
National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act,
2003;
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004;
and
National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004.
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5.3.1.4 National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (39 of
2004)
The purpose of this act was to reform the law regulating air quality by
providing measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological
degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development.
The acts aims to promote justifiable economic and social development; to
provide for national norms and standards regulating air quality monitoring,
management and control by all spheres of government; and for specific air
quality measures.
5.3.1.5 National Environmental Management: Waste Act (59 of 2008)
This act was developed to reform the law regulating waste management in
order to protect health and the environment.
This act places a high liability on waste producers and government to
supply adequate waste removal, treatment and disposal facilities to ensure
that waste is not threatening the health and safety of citizens.
Waste management was previously conducted in terms of the NWA and
several sections of law have been repealed by NEMWA. This act must be
read with NEMA and application must be guided by principles set out in
section 2 of NEMA.
5.3.1.6 National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10 of
2004)
The purpose of the National Environment Management Biodiversity Act
(NEMBA) is to provide for the management and conservation of South
Africa’s biodiversity within the framework of the National Environmental
Management Act (107 of 1998).
The Act allows for the publication of provincial and national lists of
ecosystems that are threatened and in need of protection.
The list should include:
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Critically Endangered Ecosystems, which are ecosystems
that have undergone severe ecological degradation as a result
of human activity and are at extremely high risk of irreversible
transformation.
Endangered Ecosystems, which are ecosystems that,
although they are not critically endangered, have nevertheless
undergone ecological degradation as a result of human
activity.
Vulnerable Ecosystems, which are ecosystems that have a
high risk of undergoing significant ecological degradation.
Protected Ecosystems, which are ecosystems that are of a
high conservation value or contain indigenous species at high
risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
Similarly, the Act allows for the listing of endangered species, including
critically endangered species, endangered species, vulnerable species and
protected species. A person may not carry out a restricted activity
(including trade) involving listed threatened or protected species without a
permit.
The NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan optimised on this opportunity and
defined and demarcated areas in need on protection in terms of their
vulnerability. Biodiversity sector plans does not have the legal weight of
bioregional plans but may be used on the interim until such plans become
available.
5.3.1.7 National Environmental Management: Protected Areas
Amendment Act (15 of 2009)
The purpose of NEMPAA is to amend the National Environmental
Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003, so as to provide for:
a comprehensive list in the schedule of all national parks;
the assignment of national parks, special nature reserves and
heritage sites to the South African National Parks;
flight corridors and permission of the management authority to
fly over special nature reserve, national park or heritage site;
specific areas available for training and testing of aircraft.
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This act creates a national system of protected areas in order to protect
and conserve ecologically viable areas representative of biodiversity in the
country. It further seeks to achieve co-operative environmental governance
and to promote sustainable and equitable utilisation and community
participation.
The legislation requires the State to act as trustee of protected areas, and
to implement the Act ‘in partnership with the people' to achieve the
progressive realisation of the environmental rights contained in Section 24
of the Constitution.
Once an area is declared protected, the Minister must appoint management
authorities, who in turn must prepare management plans for the special
nature reserve, national park, nature reserve or protected environment.
These plans must, amongst other things, contain the terms and conditions
of any applicable biodiversity management plan, procedures for public
participation, including participation by the owner (if applicable), any
community or other interested party, and where appropriate, the
implementation of community-based natural resource management.
The management authority may enter into an agreement with another
organ of state, a local community, an individual or other party for the co-
management of the area by the parties, or the regulation of human
activities that affect the environment in the area.
5.3.1.8 National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal
Management Act (24 of 2008)
The aim of this act is to establish a system of integrated coastal and
estuary management in South Africa, including norms, standards and
policies, in order to promote the conservation of the coastal environment.
Additional aims are to:
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maintain the natural attributes of coastal landscapes and
seascapes;
ensure that development and the use of natural resources
within the coastal zone is socially and economically justifiable
as well as being economically sustainable;
define rights and duties in relation to coastal areas;
determine the responsibilities of organs of state in relation to
coastal areas;
prohibit incineration at sea;
control dumping at sea, pollution in the coastal zone,
inappropriate development of the coastal environment and
other adverse effects on the coastal environment; and
give effect to South Africa's international obligations with
regard to coastal matters.
The South African coastline is currently not being managed and developed
in a way that optimises its resources and opportunities. Economic and
social opportunities for wealth creation and equity are being missed while
coastal ecosystems are being systematically degraded. This act will be the
regulating force to control these measures in an attempt to protect the
coastline. It also gives government the power to prevent development too
close to the sea by establishing 'set-back lines'. This stimulates a more
holistic way of thinking by promoting co-ordinated and integrated coastal
management, which views the coast as a system and emphasises the
importance of managing it as such.
An important concept contained in the act is Coastal Public Property.
Coastal Public Property covers all the non-privately owned area from the
sea, 12 kilometres from the coastline, to the top of an area traditionally
known as the Admiralty Reserve. The Admiralty Reserve is a traditional
concept but is roughly 45 - 60m from the High Water Mark of the shore,
where proof of the reserve exists in title deeds or any such similar
document. This area is to be managed for the benefit of the “whole
community” and should be held in trust. It can never be sold and rights to
this land cannot be acquired through prescription.
The Coastal Protection zone is, using simplification for the purposes of this
report, the area of land one kilometre inland from the High Water Mark,
where the land was not zoned or zoned for agriculture or is undermined.
This includes all privately owned land in the zone. The purpose of the
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Coastal Protection zone is to manage, regulate or restrict activities that may
negatively affect the Coastal Public Property.
5.3.1.9 National Water Act (38 of 1998)
The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the nation's water resources are
protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled in ways
which take into account amongst other factors:
meeting the basic human needs of present and future
generations;
promoting equitable access to water;
redressing the results of past racial and gender discrimination;
promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use of water
in the public interest;
facilitating social and economic development;
providing for growing demand for water use; protecting aquatic
and associated ecosystems and their biological diversity;
reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water
resources;
meeting international obligations;
promoting dam safety; and
managing floods and droughts.
The National Government is responsible for the equitable allocation and
use of the scarce and unevenly distributed water resources of the nation.
The aim of water resource management is to ensure the sustainable use of
water through the protection of the quality of water resources for the benefit
of all water users.
5.3.1.10 Environmental Conservation Act (73 of 1989)
The objective of the Environmental Conservation Act (ECA) is to provide for
the effective protection and controlled utilisation of the environment. This
Act was historically the main act that governed environmental management
in South Africa.
Several sections of ECA have been repealed by various pieces of
legislation mentioned in this section. ECA should therefore always be read
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in conjunction with especially NEMA and other legislation applicable to the
subject in question.
5.3.1.11 National Heritage Resources Act (25 of 1999)
The purpose of the NHRA is to protect and promote good management of
South Africa's heritage resources, and to encourage and enable
communities to nurture and conserve their legacy so it is available to future
generations.
The Act makes heritage resources of cultural significance or other special
value part of the national State, and therefore places them under the care
of the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).
Heritage resources may include buildings, historic settlements, landscapes
and natural features, burial grounds and certain moveable objects,
including objects of decorative art or scientific interest. Provincial and
municipal authorities also play a role in managing provincial heritage
resources and local-level functions.
New landowners should be made aware of any pre-existing heritage sites
or objects located on their properties, and be further educated on their
responsibilities regarding those sites or objects. They may also wish to
approach heritage authorities in order to obtain a designation for a
particular site or object under this Act.
5.3.1.12 Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983)
CARA seeks to provide for the conservation of natural agricultural
resources by maintaining the production potential of land, combating and
preventing erosion and weakening or destruction of water resources,
protecting vegetation and combating weeds and invader plant species.
CARA generally does not apply to any land situated in an urban area
(which is land under the control of a local authority, excluding any
commonage or other land used for agricultural purposes; or any land that is
subdivided). However, the provisions relating to weeds and invader plants
do apply in urban areas.
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5.3.2 Management of Environmental Elements
The legislative framework governing each environmental element is discussed
below.
5.3.2.1 Water
Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act.
Ensure compliance to the National Water Act in which each water use must
be licensed. It is a requirement that the 1:100 year flood line level appears
on all maps involving the proposed development of land. An assessment of
the impact of the proposed development on the water quality and quantity
must also be undertaken.
The control of storm water in urban areas falls under the ambit of the
Municipal Systems Act and is a local authority responsibility.
5.3.2.2 Air
Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act and
National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act.
The National Environmental Management: Air Quality aims to provide the
framework for governance of air quality management through:
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The establishment of national norms and standards,
Setting up a regulatory framework for an air quality
management planning;
Setting up a reporting regime and numerous regulatory
instruments for the control of air pollution; and
Ensuring a comprehensive approach to compliance and
enforcement.
Protecting, restoring and enhancing the air quality in the
Republic, having regard to the need to ensure sustainable
development;
Providing increased opportunities for public involvement and
participation in the protection of air quality;
Ensuring that the public has access to relevant and meaningful
information about air pollution; and
Reducing risks to human health and prevent the degradation of
air quality.
5.3.2.3 Soil
Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act.
Pressure on soil resources is increasing as a result of land use change and
transformation. The CARA requires that alien species be removed or
controlled on site. Furthermore CARA excludes any urban soils from
agricultural soils and any area outside urban settings should therefore
consider impacts on potentially arable land.
5.3.2.4 Flora
Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act,
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, Environmental
Conservation Act and National Environmental Management: Protected
Areas Act:
The objectives of the Biodiversity Act include:
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The management and conservation of biological diversity
within South Africa;
The use of indigenous biological resources in a sustainable
manner;
The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the
commercialisation through bioprospecting of traditional uses
and knowledge of genetic resources;
Giving effect to international agreements relating to biodiversity
which are binding on South Africa;
Providing for co-operative governance in biodiversity
management and conservation;
Providing for a National Biodiversity Institute to assist in
achieving the above objectives.
The following principles should be applied in the application of a Red Data
Plant Policy, designed by the provincial government.
Conserve the diversity of landscapes, ecosystems, habitats,
communities, populations, species and genes in South Africa;
Species endemic to the province should receive the utmost
protection;
All populations of Red Data plant species should be protected;
In situ conservation is preferable to ex situ conservation;
The ecological processes of a population must be protected;
The natural habitat of the species must be retained;
Translocation of species should be avoided;
The occurrence of Red Data species on a site must be
evaluated in light of the ecosystem drivers;
Suitable habitat for such species should be protected;
Buffer zones should be used to protect species in a
fragmented landscape. A distance of 200m should be used in
such a case; and
Mining, overgrazing, infrastructure developments and
agricultural transformation of land are threats to Red Data
Plant species.
5.3.2.5 Fauna
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Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act,
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, Environmental
Conservation Act and National Environmental Management: Protected
Areas Act.
The objectives of the Biodiversity Act include:
The management and conservation of biological diversity
within South Africa;
The use of indigenous biological resources in a sustainable
manner;
The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the
commercialisation through bioprospecting of traditional uses
and knowledge of genetic resources;
Giving effect to international agreements relating to biodiversity
which are binding on South Africa; and
Providing for co-operative governance in biodiversity
management and conservation.
The following principles should be applied in the application of a Red Data
Animal Policy, designed by the provincial government.
Conserve the diversity of landscapes, ecosystems, habitats,
communities, populations, species and genes in South Africa;
Species endemic to the province should receive the utmost
protection;
All populations of Red Data animal species should be
protected;
The ecological processes of a population must be protected;
The natural habitat of the species must be retained;
The occurrence of Red Data species on a site must be
evaluated in light of the ecosystem drivers; and
Suitable habitat for such species should be protected;
Mining, overgrazing, infrastructure developments and
agricultural transformation of land are threats to Red Data
animal species.
5.3.2.6 Ecology
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Ensure compliance to the National Environmental Management Act,
National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, Environmental
Conservation Act and National Environmental Management: Protected
Areas Act.
In terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act
the following legislation is provided for the management of the environment:
The management and conservation of the biological diversity of
South Africa;
The sustainable use of our biological resources; and
The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use
and application of genetic resources.
5.3.2.7 Noise
No noise control policy could be traced within the NDM.
Control of noise is however dealt with as part of the Occupational Health
and Safety Act and the Environment Conservation Act. These regulations
include that it is necessary to:
Prevent, reduce or eliminate noise, vibration and shock;
Not exceed levels of noise, vibration and shock either in
general or by specified apparatus or machinery or in specified
instances or places.
Construction activities and other noise impacts can cause noise pollution. A
disturbing noise is one that exceeds the zone sound level or the ambient
sound level by 7dBA or more. A noise nuisance is defined as meaning “any
sound that disturbs or impairs or may disturb or impair the convenience or
peace of persons”. This includes the use of power tools, movement of
vehicles, etc.
An average of 20dBA is given for Rural Areas and 85dBA is given for
Urban Areas for ambient noise.
5.3.2.8 Waste and Pollution
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Ensure compliance with the National Environmental Management Act and
the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. Important
requirements included in this legislation are:
Promote the prevention and minimization of waste generation
and hence pollution at source;
Promote the management and minimization of the impact of
unavoidable waste from its generation to final disposal;
Ensure the integrity and sustained “fitness for use” of all
environmental media, i.e. air, water and land;
Ensure the remediation of any pollution of the environment by
holding responsible parties accountable; and
Ensure environmental justice by integrating environmental
considerations with the social, political and development needs
and rights of all sectors, communities and individuals.
5.3.2.9 Open Spaces
In terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act
the following legislation is provided for the management of the environment:
The management and conservation of the biological diversity of
South Africa;
The sustainable use of our biological resources; and
The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use
and application of genetic resources.
5.3.2.10 Cultural / Historic sites
The National Heritage Resources Act requires the submission of a Phase 1
cultural historic assessment (including archaeology) for any site greater
than 1000m2 that is proposed to be developed. This assessment must map
the site and indicate the significance of the site along with adequate
mitigation measures. The Heritage Impact Assessment report should
accompany and form part of the EIA, or alternatively the South African
Heritage Resources Agency should be notified of the report and findings
from it.
5.4 Environmental Elements
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5.4.1 Climate
5.4.1.1 Constraints
There is very low rainfall in the entire district. Evapotranspiration greatly
exceeds the available annual average rainfall.
The climate is not conducive to large-scale agriculture. Rainfall is too
limited for crop production without supporting irrigation or other water
sources.
The climate does not encourage human settlement. Large areas of natural
refuge from the high temperatures and lack of water have been settled and
unless water supplies are made available it is unlikely that the
establishment of further human settlements will be successful or
sustainable. Thus new settlements established for mining or other
extraction purposes are not likely to survive the closure of the supporting
activity.
High evapotranspiration rates would limit the effectiveness of raw water
storage reservoirs. Such reservoirs, where proved feasible, would have to
have a very low surface area to storage volume ratio (i.e. be narrow and
deep) to limit evaporation from the water surfaces.
Climate change is likely to impact the district by making the climate hotter
and dryer. Rainfall patterns may shift seasonally. Groundwater and surface
water quality may deteriorate.
5.4.1.2 Opportunities
Insolation in the NDM is suitable for solar energy generation.
The relatively strong winds, coupled with wide open spaces, may also be
suitable for wind energy generation.
The climate is amenable to inbound international tourism. The inland areas
are reliably hot and dry, whilst the coastal areas are cool. These
characteristics present an opportunity to encourage tourism from the cold
areas of the world. The benefit of being able to experience desert-like
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conditions, whilst a refuge is provided along the cooler coastal areas, would
appeal to residents of countries where total sunshine is limited and winter
dominates the annual seasons.
5.4.1.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Very low and erratic rainfall.
Discourage new human settlements where
water supplies cannot be secured
Where new settlements are established, for
example new mines, ensure that provision has
been made for adequate water quality and
quantity in the project planning
Alternative water sources should be sought
ensure security of water supplies
Prohibit large scale extensive agriculture which
is not irrigated
Low rainfall has serious impacts on ability of
vegetation to recover after disturbance. Limit
any disturbances to vegetation
Water conservation awareness and technology
to reduce water use should be encouraged in
the NDM.
2. High evapotranspiration Storage reservoirs, where they are considered
should have a very low surface area to storage
volume ratio
Ground water supplies must be wisely used
Alternative means of securing water supplies
should encouraged e.g. groundwater
exploitation or water resource exploitation from
the Orange River
3. Changing climatic conditions
as a result of climate change.
Development planning, agricultural practices
and resource use should include actions to
manage the existing and predicted effects of
climate change, including impacts on
temperature, rainfall and water availability.
Effective measures for the management of
droughts and floods to be developed and
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Strategic Issue Management Measures
implemented where required. Drought resistant
crops to be investigated where needed.
Current industries and proposed new
developments should be encouraged to make
use of water and energy conservation
measures.
Ground water and surface water quality is
expected to drop, thus placing an emphasis on
the use of better water treatment technologies.
4. High insolation values,
coupled with large open
spaces make the climate
suitable for solar energy
generation
Private enterprise wishing to investigate the
feasibility of solar energy generation should be
encouraged
Land with high solar energy potential should be
identified and earmarked for potential use.
5. The climate is conducive to
international tourists from
colder climes
Develop a tourism strategy focused upon the
weather and the sights. The strong advantages
are the desert climate, flora and mountainous
terrain, coupled with cooler coastal areas
provide refuge.
6. High wind speeds, coupled
with large open spaces, make
the climate suitable for wind
energy generation
Private enterprise wishing to investigate the
feasibility of wind energy generation should be
encouraged
Land with high wind energy potential should be
identified and earmarked for potential use.
5.4.1.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Discourage new human
settlements where
water supplies cannot
be secured.
No new human settlement
where water supplies cannot be
secured.
Number of new human
settlements with adequate
water supply.
DWA
DENC
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Relevant municipal unit
Where new settlements
are established, ensure
that provision has been
made for adequate
water quality and
quantity in the project
planning.
Adequate provision of quantity
and quality water. Proof of water provision for
each new settlement
required in EIAs.
Relevant municipal unit
DWA
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Alternative water
sources should be
sought to ensure
security of water
supplies.
Identify suitable water sources. Water Resource
Development planning.
DWA
Relevant municipal unit
Prohibit large scale
extensive agriculture
which is not irrigated.
All large scale agriculture which
are not irrigated are allowed. Hectares under non-
irrigated cultivation. Use
legal processes such as
plough certificates.
NCDALR
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal sector
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Water conservation
awareness and
technology to reduce
water use should be
encouraged in the
NDM.
Encourage water conservation
awareness.
Overall potable water use
volumes in the NDM.
DWA
Department of Education
Relevant municipal sector
Storage reservoirs,
where they are
considered should have
a very low surface area
to storage volume ratio.
Low surface area storage
reservoirs. Appropriate planning during
Water Resource
Development planning.
DWA
Relevant municipal sector
Alternative means of
securing water supplies
should encouraged e.g.
groundwater
exploitation or water
resource exploitation
from the Orange River
Identify alternative means of
securing water supply. Volumes of surface water
use and volumes of ground
water used.
DWA
Relevant municipal sector
Development planning,
agricultural practices
and resource use
should include actions
to manage the existing
and predicted effects of
Identify actions to manage
effects of climate change.
Project tracking
DWA
Relevant municipal sector
Agricultural sector
DENC
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
climate change,
including impacts on
temperature, rainfall
and water availability.
Effective measures for
the management of
droughts and floods to
be developed and
implemented where
required. Drought
resistant crops to be
investigated where
needed.
Develop effect measures to
manage droughts and floods.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal sector
Current industries and
proposed
developments should
be encouraged to make
use of water and
energy conservation
measures.
Use of water and energy
conservation measures by
industries and proposed
developments.
Overall potable water use
volumes in the NDM
NCDALR
DWA
Relevant municipal sector
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Private enterprise
wishing to investigate
the feasibility of solar
energy generation
should be encouraged.
Encourage use of solar energy Project tracking
DENC
DWA
Relevant municipal sector
Land with high solar
energy potential should
be identified and
earmarked for potential
use.
Identify land with high solar
energy potential.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DMR
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal sector
Develop a tourism
strategy focused upon
the weather and the
sights. The strong
advantages are the
desert climate, flora
and mountainous
terrain, coupled with
cooler coastal areas
provide refuge.
Develop a tourism strategy
focused upon the weather and
the sights.
Number of international
visitors, taken from
accommodation guest
registers.
NCDALR
DWA
DENC
Agricultural sector
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal sector
Private enterprise
wishing to investigate
the feasibility of wind
energy generation
Identify private enterprise that
would utilise wind energy
generation.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DMR
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal sector
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
should be encouraged.
Land with high wind
energy potential should
be identified and
earmarked for potential
use.
Identify land with high wind
energy.
Project tracking NCDALR
DMR
DENC
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal sector
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5.4.1.5 Desired State of the Environment
A District Municipality that responds proactively to the need to adapt to
changing climatic conditions as a result of climate change, and which
promotes energy generation, tourism and water conservation measures.
Water resource plans are required that take the climate into account.
5.4.2 Hydrology
5.4.2.1 Constraints
The overall shortage of surface water flow represents the most significant
constraint to development in the NDM. The two WMAs which lie within the
NDM are amongst the two smallest capacity WMAs in South Africa, by a
wide margin.
The hydrology of the Olifants/Doorn catchment is in deficit, which implies
that no further water can be allocated for use. Thus the southern areas of
the NDM have no additional water resources to support expansionary
projects in agriculture or industry.
Agricultural activities involving irrigation are highly dependent on surface
water, and especially the Orange River. Sufficient water must be left in
Orange River for ecological reserve at ORM RAMSAR Site.
The lack of monitoring and control of water used for irrigation in the region
represents another constraint considering the scarcity of the resource and
thus potential abuse, over use or miss-allocation occurring.
5.4.2.2 Opportunities
The Orange River represents an extremely valuable source of water within
the District. The Lower Orange WMA is in surplus, which indicates that
additional water can be allocated for use in activities such as agriculture or
in large projects. This would mainly affect the northern areas of the NDM.
Given the surplus water availability, an opportunity exists to exploit the
large volumes of water that enter the Orange River from the Fish River.
This water enters the Orange River approximately 144 kilometres from the
mouth of the Orange River at Alexander Bay. An opportunity exists to
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exploit the water resource along this stretch of river for large-scale
irrigation.
Given that the NDM lies upstream of the two dams in the Olifants/Doorn
WMA, an opportunity exists to maintain and possibly improve the water
qualities reaching these dams. This will improve overall water quality from
these dams and reduce water treatment costs. This benefit is in addition to
the ecological benefits to the river should it contain less solid and pollution
loads.
Water re-use and recycling schemes would find fertile scope for growth and
development. The NDM is an arid area that suffers from a shortage of
water, thus technology development in both re-use and water recycling
should be given official encouragement. The development of the necessary
technology and the adoption of such schemes could generate a new
economic sector in the NDM economy. The refurbishment of an existing
desalination plant in the Eastern Cape is set to make it the biggest plant of
its kind in South Africa. The plant is located at the Bushmans River Mouth,
near Kenton-on-Sea and once completed will have a throughput of
1800m3/d. The plant is within the Ndlambe Municipality and will serve a
population of about 50 000. (http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/large-
seawater-desalination-plant-being-established-in-eastern-cape-2010-01-05).
5.4.2.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. The water resources of the
NDM are very limited
Discourage new human settlements where
water supplies cannot be secured
Where new settlements are established, for
example new mines, ensure that provision has
been made for adequate water quality and
quantity in the project planning
Alternative water sources should be sought to
ensure security of water supplies
Prohibit large scale extensive agriculture which
is not irrigated and use legal processes such as
plough certificates.
Water conservation awareness and technology
to reduce water use should be encouraged in
the NDM.
2. The Olifants/Doorn WMA is in No new developments requiring surface water
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Strategic Issue Management Measures
deficit, which implies no
further water allocations can
be made
supplies can be developed in the
Olifants/Doorn WMA. Affected municipalities
include KLM, HLM and KHLM.
Groundwater sources should be used for
developments that require water. Sustainable
exploitation of groundwater is key.
3. Monitoring of water use
should be implemented.
Water use monitoring should be implemented in
conjunction with the regional office of DWA.
The aim of the monitoring would be to identify
areas of over-use and miss-allocation. The
monitoring would also perform a tracking
function to ensure that water supplies do not fall
below expected demand.
4. Water resource exploitation
from the lower reaches of the
Orange River has the
potential to expand irrigation
in the northern areas of the
NDM. It would also secure
water supplies to the towns of
Alexander Bay and Port
Nolloth.
Water resource exploitation would involve the
construction of a dam, with international
implications. This would be handled by DWA
Head Office in Pretoria. Motivations for its
development should be submitted to the
Directorate: Options Analysis.
Ensure ecological reserve at Ramsar site
5. Catchment management
measures should be
implemented in the southern
municipalities to improve
flows in the Olifants/Doorn
WMA.
Encourage catchment management actions
such as encouraging better land management
and removing alien plant species form the
upper catchment.
Catchment management actions such as these
are job creating and thus will benefit the local
economies.
6. Water re-use and recycling
schemes should be
encouraged in the district.
Effective water re-use and recycling will lower
total water demand in the NDM, thereby
reducing stress on the water resources in the
district.
The installation of water re-use and recycling
technology and infrastructure is a new area for
economic growth and should be exploited.
The NDM should encourage research into this
area by offering student bursaries, hosting pilot
projects on municipal property and making sure
that newly approved development plans
incorporate water re-use and recycling
measures.
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5.4.2.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Discourage new human
settlements where water
supplies cannot be secured.
No new human settlement
where water cannot be
secured.
Number of new human
settlements
DWA
Department of
Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and
Traditional Affairs
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
Where new settlements are
established, for example new
mines, ensure that provision
has been made for adequate
water quality and quantity in the
project planning.
Adequate provision of
quantity and quality water.
Proof of water provision for
each new settlement
required in EIAs
DWA
Department of
Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and
Traditional Affairs
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
Alternative water sources
should be sought to ensure
Identify suitable water
sources.
Water Resource
Development planning
DWA
Relevant municipal
units
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
security of water supplies.
DENC
Water User
Associations
Discourage large scale
extensive agriculture which is
not irrigated.
All large scale agriculture
which are not irrigated are
allowed.
Hectares under non-irrigated
cultivation
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
Water conservation awareness
and technology to reduce water
use should be encouraged in
the NDM.
Encourage water
conservation awareness.
Overall potable water use
volumes in the NDM
DWA
Department of
Education Relevant municipal
units
Water User
Associations
No new developments requiring
surface water supplies can be
developed in the Olifants/Doorn
WMA. Affected municipalities
include KLM, HLM and KHLM.
No new developments that
require surface water
supplies in Olifants/Door
WMA.
IDP prohibition of major new
water using developments
KLM, HLM and KHLM.
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
7. Groundwater sources should be
used for developments that
require water. Sustainable
Sustainable use of
groundwater.
Volumes of surface water
use and volumes of ground
DWA
Relevant municipal
units
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
exploitation of groundwater is
key.
water used.
Project tracking through
EIAs.
DENC
Water use monitoring should be
implemented in conjunction with
the regional office of DWA. The
aim of the monitoring would be
to identify areas of over-use and
miss-allocation. The monitoring
would also perform a tracking
function to ensure that water
supplies do not fall below
expected demand.
Implement water use
monitoring.
Project tracking
Review of water use licences
in the NDM.
DWA
Relevant municipal
units
Encourage catchment
management actions such as
encouraging better land
management and removing
alien species form the upper
catchment.
Encourage catchment
management actions.
Project tracking DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Catchment management action
are job creating and thus will
benefit the local economies.
Encourage catchment
management actions.
Project tracking DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Effective water re-use and
recycling will lower total water
demand in the NDM, thereby
reducing stress on the water
resources in the district.
Ensure effective water re-
use and recycling.
Volumes of surface water
use and volumes of ground
water used.
DWA
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
The installation of water re-use
and recycling technology and
infrastructure is a new area for
economic growth and should be
exploited.
Install water re-use and
recycling.
Volumes of surface water
use and volumes of ground
water used.
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
The NDM should encourage
research into this area by
offering student bursaries,
hosting pilot projects on
municipal property and making
sure that newly approved
development plans incorporate
water re-use and recycling
measures.
Offer bursaries to conduct
research in the area.
Number of bursaries offered.
DWA
Agricultural sector
Relevant municipal
units
DENC
Water User
Associations
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 184
5.4.2.5 Desired State of the Environment
Hydrological resources are protected and used within their capacity.
Catchment management and surface water sources are protected. Water
reuse and recycling is a key element towards ensuring continued economic
growth.
5.4.3 Groundwater
5.4.3.1 Constraints
Groundwater quality is generally poor with high levels of TDS and nitrates
in large areas of ground water. Thus water treatment costs will be high and
areas that rely upon groundwater supplies for domestic water do not enjoy
a high guarantee of supply.
The aquifer at Port Nolloth is stressed and is currently fully exploited.
Alternative water sources should be found for this area.
Nitrate loads are high around Garies, which limits borehole exploitation, or
places additional water-treatment burdens on water users.
Efforts to manage ground water resources in the NDM are limited by the
fact that much of the groundwater pollution is imported down the Orange
River, from the Upper Orange WMA. In addition, the geological structure of
much of the NDM limits the yield of boreholes.
Development projects can put a strain on wetlands within the District.
Owing to the shortage of surface water sources and low rainfall, reliable
groundwater sources attract a great deal of use from livestock, and in some
cases, direct human use. This natural competition between anthropogenic
influences and ecosystem uses limits the ecological state in which wetlands
can be maintained.
5.4.3.2 Opportunities
Groundwater resources of good quality are in the main not overexploited,
thus the groundwater capacity exists to continue to supply isolated
communities with water.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 185
Given the relatively low volumes of groundwater that are present in the
NDM, improvement in the management of groundwater polluting activities
will yield improved groundwater quality. In this regard enforcement of anti-
pollution legislation, particularly that enacted by the National Water Act of
1998, will be beneficial. Targeted activities should be areas of intensive
agriculture, feedlots and dairy farms, poorly managed sewerage works,
sanitation in informal settlements and mining areas.
Groundwater management would also be enhanced should a
comprehensive borehole monitoring programme be implemented. This
would provide information in the management of groundwater yield and
pollution loads.
Treatment of groundwater could be improved through the use of technology
such as permeable reactive barriers containing slowly degradable carbon
sources, photochemical oxidation, microfiltration and electrokinetics.
Schemes for artificial recharge of groundwater should be considered.
Usually, the recharge water is surface water, which, where it exists in the
NDM, is exposed to high rates of evaporation. Artificial recharge schemes
aim to re-charge the aquifers by directing surface water to the groundwater,
either by using natural infiltration areas or by actively pumping water
underground. The feasibility of such schemes could be investigated.
Multiple- source schemes could be used for rural water supply.
Where surface, or tankered, water exists, but in insufficient qualities to
supply all the water needs of the community, consideration could be given
to treating surface water to potable standards and then using the lower
quality groundwater sources for other household uses such as toilet
flushing, clothes and household cleaning and small-scale irrigation
requirements.
Management of wetlands to prevent ground water pollution and sustainable
use for livestock watering is important in NDM. This will limit the pollution to
and overuse of these water sources. The goods and services that wetlands
provide will thus be protected.
5.4.3.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Overall ground water quality Encourage the use of better water treatment
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 186
Strategic Issue Management Measures
in the NDM is poor, unreliable
and requires expensive
treatment. This is particularly
true of Garies
technologies
Reduce the usage of ground water sources
where possible through the use of surface
water from the Orange River
Pollution control measures should be enforced
in the NDM. Particularly around sewerage
treatment works, intensive and irrigated
agriculture
No on-site sanitation systems (such as VIPs or
septic tanks) should be allowed for new human
settlements. Wherever possible this practise
should be phased out.
Water conservation awareness and technology
to reduce water use should be encouraged in
the NDM.
2. The Port Nolloth Aquifer is
stressed
Reduce the usage of ground water sources
where possible through increased use of
surface water from the Orange River
Investigate interim solutions such as the
provision of potable water from desalination.
Investigate water uses in Port Nolloth and
identify areas of misuse and where water re-
use and recycling would reduce overall water
demand.
Water conservation awareness and technology
to reduce water use should be encouraged in
the NDM.
3. Wetlands offer an opportunity
for groundwater recharge,
and if they are polluted, the
pollution will migrate to
nearby groundwater
Monitor agricultural practises around wetlands
to ensure that agricultural fertilisers do not enter
wetlands. Wetland based wheat farming
presents a particular challenge in this regard if
the soil is dosed using fertilisers.
The use by small livestock of wetlands for
watering should be discouraged through the
establishment of livestock watering points in
high impact areas
EIA tracking to ensure that wetlands are
identified and not impacted upon. Buffers of at
least 32m from the edges should be
implemented and enforced.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 187
Strategic Issue Management Measures
4. Groundwater resource
exploitation is possible over
the vast majority of the NDM.
This should be done in a
manner that limits to the
drawdown to the yield of the
borehole and the associated
aquifer.
Groundwater sources should be matched with
adequate treatment facilities. Due regard
should be had to the capacity of the receiving
community to manage these treatment facilities.
Geohydrological and water quality studies
should accompany all applications for
boreholes in the NDM.
5. Wetlands and the surrounding
areas, especially in
conservation areas are a
tourism resource that should
be developed.
Monitor important wetlands to ensure the
surrounding land uses and wetland use
practices support their use as tourism
resources.
5.4.3.4 Monitoring Indicators
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 188
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Encourage the use of
better water treatment
technologies.
Identify water treatment
technologies.
Project tracking
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC
Water User Associations
Reduce the usage of
ground water sources
where possible through
the use of surface
water from the Orange
River.
Reduction of ground water
usage.
Volumes of water used from
surface water sources
versus the volumes used for
groundwater sources in the
affected areas.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC
Water User Associations
Pollution control
measures should be
enforced in the NDM.
Particularly around
sewerage treatment
works, intensive and
irrigated agriculture.
Enforce the usage of pollution
control measures.
Number of sewerage
treatment works complying
with discharge permits and
those that do not comply will
be closed.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC
Water User Associations
Agricultural sector
No on-site sanitation
systems (such as VIPs
or septic tanks) should
be allowed for new
human settlements.
Wherever possible this
No on-site systems for new
human settlement.
Borehole monitoring results
near areas of intensive
agriculture.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC
Water User Associations
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 189
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
practise should be
phased out.
Water conservation
awareness and
technology to reduce
water use should be
encouraged in the
NDM.
Encourage water conservation
awareness.
Number of households
served with on-site
sanitation systems.
Overall potable water use
volumes in the NDM will be
monitored at the extraction
and end points and loss of
water along the way due to
poor infrastructure will be
maintained.
Ensure ecological reserve at
ORM.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Department of Education
DENC
Water User Associations
Investigate interim
solutions such as the
provision of potable
water from
desalination.
Provide potable water. Feasibility report
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC Water User Associations
Investigate water uses
in Port Nolloth and
identify areas of misuse
and where water re-use
and recycling would
Identify areas of water misuse. Water Usage Report
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC Water User Associations
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 190
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
reduce overall water
demand.
Monitor agricultural
practises around
wetlands to ensure that
agricultural fertilisers do
not enter wetlands.
Wetland based wheat
farming presents a
particular challenge in
this regard if the soil is
dosed using fertilisers.
No agricultural impacts on
wetlands.
Wetland monitoring reports
results.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC Water User Associations
The use by small
livestock of wetlands
for watering should be
discouraged through
the establishment of
livestock watering
points in high impact
areas.
No use of wetlands by small
livestock.
Wetland monitoring reports
results
NCDALR
DWA
Relevant municipal units
DENC Water User Associations
EIA tracking to ensure
that wetlands are
identified and not
impacts upon. Buffers
No impacts around 32m buffer
wetlands.
Number of livestock
watering points.
Wetland monitoring reports
DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 191
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
of at least 32m from the
edges should be
implemented and
enforced.
results.
Project tracking
Groundwater sources
should be matched with
adequate treatment
facilities. Due regard to
the capacity of the
receiving community to
manage these
treatment facilities.
Identify ground water sources
to match treatment facilities.
Project tracking
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Geohydrological and
water quality studies
should accompany all
applications for
boreholes in the NDM.
Geohydrological and water
quality studies.
Project tracking DWA
Relevant municipal units
Monitor important
wetlands to ensure the
surrounding land uses
and wetland use
practices support their
use as tourism
Monitor wetlands Wetland monitoring reports
results.
NCDALR
DWA
Relevant municipal units DENC
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 192
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
resources. Tourism
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 193
5.4.3.5 Desired State of the Environment
Groundwater sources should be exploited within the limits of their potential.
Ground water treatment technology should be improved and overall misuse
reduced, whilst opportunities for water recycling and re-use are maximised.
It is important that water reticulation infrastructure is properly maintained.
5.4.4 Topography
5.4.4.1 Constraints
The steep, rugged nature of the terrain within the NDM plays an important
role in limiting potential developments. High elevations and steep gradients
limit development activities, especially infrastructure development.
Given the topography, increased visual impacts may also accrue, since
developments can be viewed from a far. This is especially severe with
developments that might include highly visible impacts e.g. lights at night,
noise, scarring of the landscape and associated impacts.
Ridges and high lying areas are sensitive environments and development
in these areas should be avoided.
As a result of steep gradients, development in the area also interferes with
soil stability. Thus, for example, construction may create the potential for
severe erosion within the area, unless proper management plans are put in
place during these activities.
Steep gradients increase the potential for surface water based soil erosion,
particularly where soils are bare during major rainfall months.
5.4.4.2 Opportunities
The varied topography increases the aesthetic appeal of the district. The
landscape can be used as a tool for promoting tourism-related
developments such as the development of tourism routes and destinations.
This opportunity is available in all the landscapes of the NDM.
Plains are suitable for extensive agriculture where climatic conditions are
favourable or where irrigation schemes replace the need for regular rainfall.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 194
Plains are also suitable for any extensive projects that require vast,
uninhabited open spaces, except in areas where sensitive vegetation
occurs. Examples in this regard include astronomy, solar and wind power
generation, nuclear fuel storage, vehicle testing and racing and military
manoeuvres.
The NDM is also a potential location for the proposed Square Kilometre
Array (SKA) project. This is a project funded by the United States for the
development of the world’s largest radio telescope. One example is the
space and astronomy project South Africa Large Telescope (SALT) in
Sutherland. MeerKAT (Karoo Array Telescope) is a seven dish array
telescope project that is in the early implementation stages.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 195
5.4.4.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Ridges and high lying areas
play an important role in the
maintenance of biodiversity
and ecological integrity.
Ridges and high lying areas should be
regarded as sensitive areas. Where possible,
development should be limited to footpaths.
Development on slopes greater than or equal to
8º should be avoided.
Development on slopes between 5º to 8º
should consider appropriate development types
and mitigation measures for managing soil
erosion, surface runoff and other impacts.
An EIA with specialist studies must supersede
any development on a topographical feature.
Footpaths and lookout points should include
appropriate soil erosion reduction measures,
including path stabilisers and controlled water
runoff points.
2. Ridges and high lying areas
can exacerbate noise and
visual impacts.
Developments on high lying areas should be
planned to minimise visual impacts as part of
the EIA process.
Developments that include lights at night and
landscape scarring should be avoided where
possible.
Lighting should not be dispersed but focused
downwards.
Activities on slopes and ridges that could
generate significant noise for downstream
residents should be discouraged.
3. The mining of sand (sand
winning) on ridges, granite
and slopes can produce
permanent landscape
scarring and accelerate soil
erosion.
Sand winning should be avoided on steep
slopes.
Measures to rehabilitate indigenous vegetation
on slopes characterised by sand winning
should be followed.
4. Encouragement of the use of
open plains for extensive
activities where feasible, such
as agriculture, energy
generation, scientific projects,
vehicle testing and racing and
military manoeuvres.
Private enterprise wishing to investigate the
feasibility of energy generation should be
encouraged.
Land with high energy generation potential
should be identified and earmarked for potential
use.
Ensure that sensitive vegetation is not
disturbed.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 196
Strategic Issue Management Measures
Opportunities for military sites should be
actively followed up, this includes contact with
international militaries who have a need for
specialised desert warfare training or
acclimatisation prior to deployment.
7. The topography is
aesthetically appealing and
conducive to tourism.
Develop a tourism strategy with a focus on
unique topographical features. The strong
advantages are the Kamiesberg and the desert
landscapes in the northern municipalities of the
district.
5.4.4.4 Monitoring Indicators
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 197
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Ridges and high lying
areas should be
regarded as sensitive
areas. Where possible,
development should be
limited to footpaths.
No development on ridges and
high lying areas.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Development on slopes
greater than or equal to
8º should be avoided.
No development on slopes
greater or equal 8º.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Development on slopes
between 5º to 8º should
consider appropriate
development types and
mitigation measures for
managing soil erosion,
surface runoff and
other impacts.
No development on slopes
between 5º and 8º.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
An EIA with specialist
studies must supersede
any development on a
topographical feature.
Specialists’ studies conducted
on any topograpgical feature.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 198
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Footpaths and lookout
points should include
appropriate soil erosion
reduction measures,
including path
stabilisers and
controlled water runoff
points.
Soil erosion reduction
measures in any footpaths and
lookout points.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Developments on high
lying areas should be
planned to minimise
visual impacts as part
of the EIA process.
Minimise any visual impacts on
high lying developments.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Developments that
include lights at night
and landscape scarring
should be avoided
where possible.
No development that include
lights at night and landscape
scarring.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Lighting should not be
dispersed but focused
downwards.
No lightning should be
dispersed.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Activities on slopes and
ridges that could
generate significant
noise for downstream
No activities on slopes that
generate noise.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 199
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
residents should be
discouraged.
Sand winning should
be avoided on steep
slopes.
No sand winning on steep
slopes.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Measures to
rehabilitate indigenous
vegetation on slopes
characterised by sand
winning should be
followed.
Rehabilitate slopes
characterised by sand winning.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Private enterprise
wishing to investigate
the feasibility of energy
generation should be
encouraged.
Identify private enterprise
wishing to investigate feasibility
of energy generation.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Land with high energy
generation potential
should be identified and
earmarked for potential
use.
Identify land with high energy
generation.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Opportunities for
military sites should be
Identify opportunities for military
sites.
Project tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 200
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
actively followed up,
this includes contact
with international
militaries who have a
need for specialised
desert warfare training
or acclimatisation prior
to deployment.
Inclusion in the IDP
Develop a tourism
strategy with a focus on
unique topographical
features. The strong
advantages are the
Kamiesberg and the
desert landscapes in
the northern
municipalities of the
district.
Develop a tourism strategy with
a focus on unique
topographical features.
Number of visitors, taken
from accommodation guest
registers
DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 201
5.4.4.5 Desired State of the Environment
Development in high lying areas should be restricted thereby protecting the
habitats supporting ecosystems in the affected areas. Restrictions limit
potential visual impacts and maintain the present undisturbed sense of
place.
5.4.5 Soils
5.4.5.1 Constraints
Generally, the soils within the NDM have little agricultural potential.
Exceptions are alluvial areas along the Orange River and the north western
part of the Richtersveld Local Municipality.
The sandy nature of the soils makes them prone to erosion when the
natural vegetation cover is negatively impacted.
Severe erosion has been caused due to long periods of overcultivation and
overgrazing.
5.4.5.2 Opportunities
There is a need to develop sustainable livestock grazing practices within
the NDM to minimize the impact on the natural vegetation and avoid the
loss of vegetation species.
Leisure activities such as off road recreational driving should be restricted
to areas that are not sensitive to vegetation disturbance.
Potential opportunities are noted along the Orange River – the soil type is
suitable for orchard-type agriculture.
Given the potentially productive nature of the soils in the north western part
of the Richtersveld Local Municipality, irrigation schemes could be
extended to these areas to encourage crop production.
The potential for irrigated agriculture along the Orange River and in the
north-western parts of the RLM can be linked to the opportunities in the
Hydrology section (Section 4.1.3) of this report. The development of
additional water resources in this area should be encouraged.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 202
5.4.5.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Soils within the NDM are
generally poorly suited to
agriculture (with important
exceptions).
Appropriate agricultural practices should be
promoted in order to maintain or enhance the
soil’s agricultural potential.
Consideration should be given to the impact
of future agricultural activity on the
maintenance of acceptable soil quality –
overexpansion would place stresses on
existing soil capacity (as well as water
sources).
Legal plough certificates are important.
2. The soils are particularly
vulnerable to erosion, given
their poor ability to support
vegetation and the long periods
of time it takes for vegetation to
re-establish. These points are
reinforced by the low rainfall
and sometimes steep
topography in some areas.
Therefore do not promote
destructive practices such as
large scale agriculture and
military exercises.
Areas susceptive to erosion (such as slopes
and steep areas) should be regarded as
sensitive and development limited in these
areas.
All developments in areas susceptible to
erosion must consider storm water runoff
control measures.
Measures to control soil erosion from
agricultural areas, must be implemented.
Agriculture should avoid use of land for
grazing, or for crops, that result in bare soils
on slopes during the major rainfall period of
November to March.
Proposed developments should demonstrate
compatibility of the proposed land use with
the soil type.
3. Soil erosion due to overgrazing. The implementation of soil conservation
measures is required in all areas. These
measures include:
The proper installation and placement of
erosion control structures, such as
sediment fences and retention ponds;
The planting of indigenous vegetation,
particularly as part of land rehabilitation
efforts;
The prevention of overgrazing through
controls on stocking rates and practising
of rotational grazing.
Effective storm water runoff management;
Soil conditions, including composition,
permeability, slope and carrying capacity to
be given careful consideration in the design
and planning of agricultural projects.
4. Sand winning activities can
permanently scar landscapes
Sand winning to be discouraged on steep
slopes and ridges. Methods to mitigate soil
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 203
Strategic Issue Management Measures
and accelerate erosion. erosion during mining activities to be
employed.
5. Off-road recreational vehicle
driving, similar to small
livestock grazing, and military
activities can cause soil
erosion.
Information regarding good driving conduct
should be made available to the off-road
community. This can be provided on district
tourism websites and brochures produced for
use by training academies and clubs.
6. Expansion of existing irrigated
areas using water from the
Orange River.
The expansion of irrigation schemes would
increase the productivity of farming in the
northern areas of the NDM.
Ensure there is no destruction of sensitive
vegetation, especially lower Orange alluvial
vegetation.
5.4.5.4 Monitoring Indicators
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 204
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Appropriate agricultural
practices should be
promoted in order to
maintain or enhance
the soil’s agricultural
potential.
Promote agricultural practices. Agricultural productivity
measured in crop mass per
hectare.
NCDALR
DENC
DWA
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Consideration should
be given to the impact
of future agricultural
activity on the
maintenance of
acceptable soil quality
– overexpansion would
place stresses on
existing soil capacity
(as well as water
sources).
No overexploitation of existing
soil capacity.
Agricultural productivity
measured in crop mass per
hectare.
NCDALR
DENC
DWA
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Areas susceptive to
erosion (such as slopes
and steep areas)
should be regarded as
sensitive and
development should be
Limit development on areas
susceptible to erosion.
Project tracking
DENC
DWA
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 205
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
limited in these areas.
All developments in
areas susceptible to
erosion must consider
storm water runoff
control measures.
Storm water runoff control
measures should be
considered in areas susceptible
to erosion.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DENC
DWA
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Measures to control soil
erosion from
agricultural areas, must
be implemented.
Implement measures to control
soil erosion.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DENC
DWA
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Agriculture should
avoid use of land for
grazing, or for crops,
that result in bare soils
on slopes during the
major rainfall periods.
Avoid bare soils due to grazing. Project tracking
NCDALR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Proposed
developments should
demonstrate
compatibility of the
proposed land use with
the soil type.
Any development should
demonstrate compatibility of
proposed land use with land
type.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 206
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
The implementation of
soil conservation
measures is required in
all areas. These
measures include:
The proper
installation and
placement of
erosion control
structures, such as
wind breaks,
sediment fences
and retention
ponds;
The planting of
indigenous
vegetation,
particularly as part
of land
rehabilitation
efforts;
The prevention of
overgrazing
through controls on
stocking rates and
practising of
rotational grazing.
Effective storm
The implementation of soil
conservation measures.
Project tracking
NCDALR
DENC
DWA
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 207
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
water runoff
management.
Soil conditions,
including composition,
permeability, slope and
carrying capacity to be
given careful
consideration in the
design and planning of
agricultural projects.
Any agricultural projects should
consider soil conditions and
capabilities.
Project tracking NCDALR
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Information regarding
good driving conduct
should be made
available to the off-road
community. This can be
provided on district
tourism websites and
brochures produced for
use by training
academies and clubs.
Provide information regarding
good driving conduct.
Level of awareness
amongst target community.
NCDALR
DENC
Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 208
5.4.5.5 Desired State of the Environment
Sound agricultural practices need to be encouraged in order to maintain a
balance between the productive use of land and the longer term
maintenance of soil resources. In addition, effective measures must be
taken to:
Mitigate the soil erosion potential of future developments;
Implement soil conservation and land rehabilitation efforts.
5.4.6 Flora
5.4.6.1 Constraints
The greatest threat to biodiversity within the NDM is livestock grazing; more
than 90% of the Municipality is utilized for livestock grazing. Ploughing and
game farming are considered to have an increasingly negative impact on
the biodiversity within the region. Mining (diamonds, heavy metals and
minerals) also threaten this fragile region and its biodiversity. The
cultivation of grapes, citrus and vegetables within the hotspot areas
negatively impact on its biodiversity. Although the extent of these activities
is limited, when compared to that of livestock grazing, the impact can be
severe and can result in species extinction and habitat disturbance. The
vegetation along the Orange River (Lower Orange River alluvial vegetation)
is the most threatened vegetation type in the province.
Approximately 2 560km2 (2.5%) of the Succulent Karoo, is protected in
Northern Cape. The lack of statutory protected areas in some parts of the
NDM prevents the conservation of biodiversity in these areas.
According to the 2004 Northern Cape State of the Environment Report
Overview, alien plant species are the second largest threat to biodiversity
after direct habitat destruction. An example of alien plant invasion is the
Orange River where Prosopis sp is spread along the river banks. Other
alien plant species include Black Wattle and poplar trees and may have
serious impact on species with limited destination ranges.
Urban and rural settlements also have a negative impact on the natural
vegetation cover.
Other threats to the biodiversity within the region include the illegal
collection of succulents, bulbs and reptiles.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 209
Development within the 5 SKEP priority conservation areas should be
limited to those developments with a low environmental impact. If moderate
to high impact developments are required then mitigation measures for the
protection of the floral and faunal species and their habitat must be strictly
adhered to.
5.4.6.2 Opportunities
There is a need to develop well-managed livestock grazing practices that
are compatible with biodiversity conservation.
It is important to develop and implement alien vegetation clearing
programmes which will have a positive impact on biodiversity conservation
within the region.
It is important to integrate conservation priorities into land-use planning and
management practices and to promote sustainable practices within the
industrial sectors to promote biodiversity conservation.
The potential for tourism, both eco-tourism and adventure tourism (hiking
and fishing) is high as the NDM has large open spaces and unique flora, as
well as a number National parks and nature reserves, these are:
Namakwa National Park;
Tankwa Karoo National Park;
Goegap Nature Reserve;
Nababiep Nature Reserve;
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve and
Richtersveld National Park.
The Richtersveld Community Conservancy is the centre of a World
Heritage Site. This Conservancy should be retained.
There is the opportunity to expand the protected areas to include more of
the 5 SKEP priority conservation areas.
5.4.6.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Biodiversity loss due to
overgrazing.
All local municipalities have promulgated
grazing by-laws. These should be enforced.
2. Presence of a number of All EIAs for developments to facilitate the
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 210
Strategic Issue Management Measures
Category 1-3 alien invasives,
especially along river courses,
according to CARA.
removal of alien invasive plants where these
occur on development property.
The removal of alien invasive plants
prioritised, with or without the support of the
Working for Water programme.
Landowners educated and empowered
concerning their legal mandate to clear
Category 1 invasives on their property.
Specialist study conducted to ensure that all
invasive weeds in the study area are
catalogued.
3. Biodiversity loss due to
ploughing or other development
activity.
Create biodiversity offsets
The loss of biodiversity should be weighed
against the economic and social gains that
development brings. Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the flora and fauna that will
be destroyed by the development – all
development is prohibited in areas of
critical biodiversity and all extensive
developments are prohibited in
conservation areas;
The chances of the development’s
success – the better chance the proposed
development has, the more likely the
biodiversity loss will be acceptable;
The size of the economic intervention, the
larger the size, the more likely the
biodiversity loss will be acceptable;
The impacts that the development will
have on the poorest inhabitants of the
NDM. The larger the benefit to poorer
inhabitants, the more likely the loss of
biodiversity will be acceptable.
4. Biodiversity loss due to mining. The loss of biodiversity should be weighed
against the economic and social gains that
the mine brings. Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the flora and fauna that will
be destroyed by the mine – all mining is
prohibited in areas of critical biodiversity;
The proximity of the mine to established
tourist areas. Impacts of the proposed
mine should be limited to ensure the
minimum impact on tourism, which has a
longer economic impact than the typical
mine;
Large mines may destroy species with
limited destination ranges and the loss will
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 211
Strategic Issue Management Measures
be unacceptable;
The impacts that the development will
have on the poorest inhabitants of the
NDM. The larger the benefit to poorer
inhabitants, the more likely the loss of
biodiversity will be acceptable.
Mine rehabilitation measures should be
established at the start of mining. The final
land use should be established and planning
should start at feasibility stage to determine if
indeed the rehabilitated land will be suitable
for the use in which it was intended. NDM
officials should carefully review mining
applications for evidence of this type of
planning and reviews the plan’s effectiveness.
5. The need to protect more of the
SKEP Biodiversity Hotspot.
Approaches should be made to SANParks
and regional conservation bodies to formally
conserve more of the SKEP Biodiversity
Hotspot;
Floral tourism should be encouraged to
support the claim for additional conservation
space;
Development activities should be limited in
SKEP areas to ensure that the ability to
formally declare a conservation area is not
compromised.
6. The loss of biodiversity due to
human settlement expansion.
Biodiversity loss in this manner can be limited
through the establishment of town
boundaries, over which a town cannot
expand. This would encourage densification
of the NDM towns, reducing the biodiversity
impacts. This intervention will also have the
beneficial economic effects of being able to
supply social and infrastructural services at a
lower household cost than would be possible
for a sprawling town planning scheme;
7. Severing of biodiversity
corridors by longitudinal
developments.
Longitudinal developments should be planned
with due concern as established through
biodiversity corridors, any development that
traverses a biodiversity corridor should have
mitigation measures established to ensure
that the traverse does not sever the corridor.
8. Illegal trading of flora has a
large impact of biodiversity,
since the most threatened
species are those which are the
target of such trading.
This illegal trade should be controlled in
accordance with CITES (The Convention on
the Trade In Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora) and TRAFFIC regulations.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 212
5.4.6.4 Monitoring Indicators
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 213
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
All local municipalities
have promulgated
grazing by-laws. These
should be enforced.
Enforcement of grazing by-laws Number of enforcement
actions
Results of veld monitoring
visits
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
All EIAs for
developments to
facilitate the removal of
alien invasive plants
where these occur on
development property.
Removal of alien invasive
species
Project tracking
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
The removal of alien
invasive plants
prioritised, with or
without the support of
the Working for Water
programme.
Removal of all alien invasive
species
Results of veld monitoring
visits
Size of the area cleared
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Landowners educated
and empowered
concerning their legal
mandate to clear
Category 1 invasives
on their property.
Educate landowners about
Category 1 invasives
Number of landowners
reached
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Specialist study
conducted to ensure
that all invasive weeds
in the study area are
catalogued.
Document/report with all
invasive species
Project Tracking
DENC
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
The impacts that the
development will have
on the poorest
inhabitants of the NDM.
The larger the benefit
to poorer inhabitants,
the more likely the loss
of biodiversity will be
acceptable.
Measurement of biodiversity
loss against economic benefit
to poorest inhabitats.
Project Tracking
NCDALR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
The loss of biodiversity
should be weighed
against the economic
and social gains that
the mine brings.
Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the
flora and fauna that
will be destroyed
by the mine – all
mining is prohibited
in areas of critical
Measurement of biodiversity
loss against economic and
social gains.
Project Tracking
NCDALR
DENC
Relevant municipal
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 215
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
biodiversity;
The proximity of
the mine to
established tourist
areas. Impacts of
the proposed mine
should be limited to
ensure the
minimum impact on
tourism, which has
a longer economic
impact than the
typical mine;
The size of the
mine, the larger the
size, the more
likely the
biodiversity loss will
be acceptable;
The impacts that
the development
will have on the
poorest inhabitants
of the NDM. The
larger the benefit to
poorer inhabitants,
the more likely the
loss of biodiversity
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 216
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
will be acceptable.
Mine rehabilitation
measures should be
established at the start
of mining. The final
land use should be
established and
planning should start at
feasibility stage to
determine if indeed the
rehabilitated land will
be suitable for the use
in which it was
intended. NDM officials
should carefully review
mining applications for
evidence of this type of
planning and reviews
the plan’s
effectiveness.
Mine rehabilitation Plan Project Tracking
DENC
DMR
Relevant municipal units
Approaches should be
made to SANParks and
regional conservation
bodies to formally
conserve more of the
SKEP Biodiversity
Hotspot.
More areas formally conserved
as SKEP Biodiversity Hotspots.
Number of SKEP
Biodiversity hotspots
DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 217
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Floral tourism should
be encouraged to
support the claim for
additional conservation
space.
Floral tourism Project Tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
Development activities
should be limited in
SKEP areas to ensure
that the ability to
formally declare a
conservation area is
not compromised.
Limit developments on SKEP
areas.
Increases in the percentage
of the Succulent Karoo area
protected.
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Biodiversity loss in this
manner can be limited
through the
establishment of town
boundaries, over which
a town cannot expand.
This would encourage
densification of the
NDM towns, reducing
the biodiversity
impacts. This
intervention will also
have the beneficial
Establishment of town
boundaries.
Number of established town
boundaries written into town
planning schemes.
DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 218
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
economic effects of
being able to supply
social and
infrastructural services
at a lower household
cost than would be
possible for a sprawling
town planning scheme.
Longitudinal
developments should
be planned with due
concern to the
biodiversity corridors,
any development that
traverses a biodiversity
corridor should have
mitigation measures
established to ensure
that the traverse does
not sever the corridor.
Develop biodiversity corridors. Project Tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
The illegal trade should
be controlled in
accordance with CITES
(The Convention on the
Trade In Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna
and Flora) regulations.
No illegal trading Number of enforcement
actions.
DENC
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 219
5.4.6.5 Desired State of the Environment
The preservation of the study area’s floral heritage through the promotion of
conservation and protection.
Particular attention is to be paid to the impacts of development of areas of
critical biodiversity and of the areas of succulent karoo.
Finally, a proactive and shared responsibility approach to the removal of
alien invasive plants and these alien plants systematically removed from
the system.
5.4.7 Fauna
5.4.7.1 Constraints
Tourism activities in terms of wildlife ranching would be limited because the
District Municipality does not have a large amount of habitat suitable for
that use (Todd et. al., 2009).
Development within areas of critical biodiversity should be prohibited.
Development within the Succulent Karoo should be limited, as far as
possible, to those with a minimal environmental impact. Where this is not
feasible, mitigation measures should be put in place to reduce the impact of
the development on the indigenous fauna or alternatively create the
biodiversity offsets.
5.4.7.2 Opportunities
According to Todd et. al. (2009), poor grazing management can lead to
land degradation and biodiversity loss at a landscape scale, however, well
managed livestock grazing is compatible with biodiversity conservation.
Ongoing biodiversity conservation would contribute to meeting the national
commitments to international biodiversity agreements (SKEP, 2003).
The Riverine Rabbit Working Group is a non-government conservation
group that is undertaking activities to conserve the Riverine Rabbit. There
is therefore the opportunity for government to engage with, and participate
in, the Riverine Rabbit Working Group.
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 220
5.4.7.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. There are natural limits placed
on the expansion of wildlife
ranching by the nature of the
climate, soils and vegetation.
Tourism plans that place a large focus on
game viewing should be discouraged. Game
viewing has a place in the NDM, but it is not
the natural strength of the area.
2. Presence of a number of alien
species.
All EIAs for developments to facilitate the
removal of alien species where they occur on
development property.
Landowners educated and empowered
concerning their legal mandate to remove
alien species on their property.
Specialist study conducted to ensure that all
alien species in the study area are
catalogued.
3. Biodiversity loss due to
ploughing or other development
activity.
The loss of biodiversity should be weighed
against the economic and social gains that
development brings. Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the flora and fauna that will
be destroyed by the development – all
development is prohibited in areas of
critical biodiversity and all extensive
development is prohibited in conservation
areas;
The chances of the developments
success – the better chance the proposed
development has, the more likely the
biodiversity loss will be acceptable;
The size of the economic intervention, the
larger the size, the more likely the
biodiversity loss will be acceptable;
The impacts that the development will
have on the poorest inhabitants of the
NDM. The larger the benefit to poorer
inhabitants, the more likely the loss of
biodiversity will be acceptable.
4. Biodiversity loss due to mining The loss of biodiversity should be weighed
against the economic and social gains that
the mine brings. Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the flora and fauna that will
be destroyed by the mine – all mining is
prohibited in areas of critical biodiversity;
The proximity of the mine to established
tourist areas. Impacts of the proposed
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 221
Strategic Issue Management Measures
mine should be limited to ensure the
minimum impact on tourism, which has a
longer economic impact than the typical
mine;
The size of the mine, the larger the size,
the more likely the biodiversity loss will be
acceptable;
The impacts that the development will
have on the poorest inhabitants of the
NDM. The larger the benefit to poorer
inhabitants, the more likely the loss of
biodiversity will be acceptable.
Mine rehabilitation measures should be
established at the start of mining. The final
land use should be established and planning
should start at feasibility stage to determine if
indeed the rehabilitated land will be suitable
for the use in which it was intended. NDM
officials should carefully review mining
applications for evidence of this type of
planning and reviews the plan’s effectiveness.
5. The need to protect more of the
SKEP Biodiversity Hotspot.
Approaches should be made to SANParks
and regional conservation bodies to formally
conserve more of the SKEP Biodiversity
Hotspot;
Floral tourism should be encouraged to
support the claim for additional conservation
space;
Development activities should be limited in
SKEP areas to ensure that the ability to
formally declare a conservation area is not
compromised.
6. The loss of biodiversity due to
human settlement expansion.
Biodiversity loss in this manner can be limited
through the establishment of town
boundaries, over which a town cannot
expand. This would encourage densification
of the NDM towns, reducing the biodiversity
impacts. This intervention will also have the
beneficial economic effects of being able to
supply social and infrastructural services at a
lower household cost than would be possible
for a sprawling town planning scheme;
7. Severing of biodiversity
corridors by longitudinal
developments.
Longitudinal developments should be planned
with due concern to the biodiversity corridors,
any development that traverses a biodiversity
corridor should have mitigation measures
established to ensure that the traverse does
not sever the corridor.
8. Illegal trading of fauna has a This illegal trade should be controlled in
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 222
Strategic Issue Management Measures
large impact of biodiversity,
since the most threatened
species are those which are the
target of such trading.
accordance with CITES (The Convention on
the Trade In Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora) and TRAFFIC regulations.
5.4.7.4 Monitoring Indicators
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 223
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
There are natural limits
placed on the
expansion of wildlife
ranching by the nature
of the climate, soils and
vegetation.
Limit game ranching Number of enforcement
actions
DENC
Relevant municipal units
All EIAs for
developments to
facilitate the removal of
alien species where
these occur on
development property.
Removal of alien species. Project tracking
DENC
DMR
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Landowners educated
and empowered to
remove alien species
on their property.
Educate landowners about
alien species.
Number of landowners
reached
DENC
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Specialist study
conducted to ensure
that all alien species in
the study area are
catalogued.
Document/report with all alien
species.
Project Tracking
DENC
DMR
DWA
Relevant municipal units
The loss of biodiversity
should be weighed
Measurement of biodiversity
loss against economic and
Project Tracking DENC
DMR
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 224
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
against the economic
and social gains that
development brings.
Factors to be weighed
include:
The nature of the
flora and fauna that
will be destroyed
by the development
– all development
is prohibited in
areas of critical
biodiversity and all
extensive
development is
prohibited in
conservation areas;
The chances of the
developments
success – the
better chance the
proposed
development has,
the more likely the
biodiversity loss will
be acceptable;
The size of the
economic
social gains. DWA
Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 225
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
intervention, the
larger the size, the
more likely the
biodiversity loss will
be acceptable.
The impacts that the
development will have
on the poorest
inhabitants of the NDM.
The larger the benefit
to poorer inhabitants,
the more likely the loss
of biodiversity will be
acceptable.
Measurement of biodiversity
loss against economic benefit
to poorest inhabitats.
Project Tracking
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Mine rehabilitation
measures should be
established at the start
of mining. The final
land use should be
established and
planning should start at
feasibility stage to
determine if indeed the
rehabilitated land will
be suitable for the use
in which it was
intended. NDM officials
Mine rehabilitation Plan Project Tracking
DENC
DMR
DWA Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 226
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
should carefully review
mining applications for
evidence of this type of
planning and reviews
the plan’s
effectiveness.
Approaches should be
made to SANParks and
regional conservation
bodies to formally
conserve more of the
SKEP Biodiversity
Hotspot.
More areas formally conserved
as SKEP Biodiversity Hotspots.
Number of SKEP
Biodiversity hotspots
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Development activities
should be limited in
SKEP areas to ensure
that the ability to
formally declare a
conservation area is
not compromised.
Limit developments on SKEP
areas.
Increases in the percentage
of the Succulent Karoo area
protected.
DENC
DMR
DWA Relevant municipal units
Biodiversity loss in this
manner can be limited
through the
establishment of town
boundaries, over which
a town cannot expand.
This would encourage
Establishment of town
boundaries.
Number of established town
boundaries written into town
planning schemes.
DENC
DMR
DWA Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 227
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
densification of the
NDM towns, reducing
the biodiversity
impacts. This
intervention will also
have the beneficial
economic effects of
being able to supply
social and
infrastructural services
at a lower household
cost than would be
possible for a sprawling
town planning scheme.
Longitudinal
developments should
be planned with due
concern to the
biodiversity corridors,
any development that
traverses a biodiversity
corridor should have
mitigation measures
established to ensure
that the traverse does
not sever the corridor.
Develop biodiversity corridors. Project Tracking DENC
Relevant municipal units
The illegal trade should
be controlled in
No illegal trading Number of enforcement DENC
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 228
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
accordance with CITES
(The Convention on the
Trade In Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna
and Flora) regulations.
actions Relevant municipal units
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 229
5.4.7.5 Desired State of the Environment
Sound agricultural practices to be encouraged in order to maintain a
balance between the productive use of land and the longer term
maintenance of soil resources. In addition, effective measures must be
taken to:
Mitigate the soil erosion potential of future developments; and
Implement soil conservation and land rehabilitation efforts.
5.4.8 Coastal Environment
5.4.8.1 Constraints
Access to the coastline is a constraint that hampers the use of the area for
eco-tourism or for the development of marine fishing. Access to very long
portions of the coastline is controlled by diamond mining companies, who
are loath to give up this degree of control whilst mineral resources remain
to be exploited. This situation will however change as the mines close, and
planning for this event should begin.
Eco-tourism development along the northern section of the coastline, and
certainly above Port Nolloth, is constrained due to the degree to which the
environment has been transformed from its natural habitat. Rehabilitation
measures taken by the diamond mining companies help mitigate this
impact, but it seems likely that the ecosystem will not recover for a long
time after rehabilitation has been completed.
The life of the remaining alluvial diamond mining is relatively short, with
both dominant companies focusing on marine mining, whilst constraining
land-based mining. Thus, the economic benefits derived from mining
activities are waning, with the concomitant impact on the socio-economic
environment. No plans are in place to replace this source of economic
activity given the lack of clarity on closure of the mines.
The SANParks initiative for the development of a coastal park will
contribute largely to the conservation of this coastline. However, the
financial achievability of this initiative should be tested. Furthermore,
conservation of this section of coastline will not alleviate the current need of
access to coastal and marine resources and initiatives should be put in
place to address this issue by providing adequate access to local
entrepreneurs.
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Development of tourism and large scale fisheries could lead to degradation
of the better preserved or pristine coastal area, which lie to the south of the
study area. Tourism and large-scale fisheries should therefore be planned
at a regional scale to improve management and reduce the impact on the
receiving environment.
5.4.8.2 Opportunities
The lack of a harbour suitable for the development of a fishing fleet is an
opportunity that could be seized by the RLM. If a breakwater were to be
constructed at Port Nolloth, access to the area for fishing and other
economic activities would be provided.
None of the beaches in the NDM have blue flag status. Blue flag status is
awarded to beaches that meet 14 water quality, safety, services and
environmental information criteria. These beaches are internationally
recognised as having excellent management and hence are a tourism draw
card. An opportunity exists to create a safe swimming beach in the NDM
which would be protected from harsh coastal action and which would have
blue flag status.
The mining companies on the coastal areas of NDM have invested in the
development of the residential areas for the development of infrastructure
and local economic development. This should be built upon to continue to
provide a basic standard of living to the affected settlements.
The high degree of transformation could be an opportunity to locate heavy
industry or energy generation projects, which need to be near the sea, on
heavily transformed land. An obvious choice for this type of activity would
be Nuclear Energy Generation projects. This opportunity would reduce the
potential impact of such a project by otherwise locating it on a better
preserved or pristine section of coastline.
Given that the land along the coastline is owned or controlled by relatively
few entities, a vibrant opportunity exists to manage the coastline for the
future. During closure negotiations, the area of theoretical Coastal Public
Property should be secured for the future use of inhabitants by acquiring
state ownership of all the land up to 40- to 60m of the HWM, for as much of
the coastline as possible. In conjunction with this measure, ensure that
management plans for the Coastal Protected Zone is drawn up and
implemented.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 231
5.4.8.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Lack of access to the shoreline
due on on-going mining
activities.
Clarity should be obtained from mining
companies on the closure plans for the mines.
Planning for the future use of the coastline
should be developed taking into account
these deadlines.
Access to the coastline, in the southern and
less disturbed parts of the NDM should be
secured. The objective is to open up further
areas of the coast for tourism development.
2. Rehabilitation of the coastal
areas as part of the mines’
closure plans.
Representations should be made to the
Department of Mineral Resources to intercede
on behalf of the NDM to determine the
planned scope and duration of rehabilitation
plans along the entire length of NDM
coastline.
Closure plans should be commented upon by
the NDM to ensure that the interests of the
NDM are contained in the plans.
3. Securing the Coastal Public
Property.
The NDM should initiate a programme to
ensure state ownership of as much of the
theoretical Coastal Public Property as
possible is secured for future use.
Landownership of the entire length of Atlantic
coast should be determined.
All municipal IDPs with an Atlantic coastline
should have the theoretical Coastal Public
Property demarcated. As state land
ownership over this land is achieved, the
theoretical demarcation can be changed to an
actual demarcation of the Coastal Public
Property.
Representations should be made to the
Department of Mineral Resources to intercede
on behalf of the NDM to negotiate transfer of
mining land to state hands. Funds to achieve
this object should be secured. Alexkor land
should present less of a challenge than De
Beers owned land, since Alexkor is state
owned.
Al development in the theoretical Coastal
Public Property zone should be prohibited.
4. Identifying the Coastal
Protection Zone and
establishing management rules
for its use.
All municipal IDPs with an Atlantic coastline
should have the Coastal Protection Zone
identified and demarcated. A Coastal
Management Plan should regulate
development in this zone.
To achieve management objectives in this
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Strategic Issue Management Measures
zone state ownership of the land is not
necessary, nor desirable.
5. Encouraging Coastal Tourism The coastline access points that have been
obtained should be improved to expand the
tourism offering in this regard;
Hondeklipbaai should have the road improved
to allow access and the necessary
infrastructure installed to cater for increased
volumes of tourists;
Expansion of the tourism product to include
industrial tours of the diamond mine workings
is a unique draw card that can be offered by
the NDM
Investigate the possibility of making the
necessary improvements to a beach at
McDougalls Bay or in Port Nolloth in order for
it the achieve Blue Flag Status.
6. Opening up of the marine
environment for other shipping.
Consideration should be given to constructing
a breakwater at Port Nolloth. This would allow
safe harbour for vessels other than diamond
miners and would potentially open up the
fishing industry and ocean based tourism.
7. The SANParks initiative to
expand the current Namakwa
National Park to the coastal
areas should be encouraged.
This initiative should receive a financial
feasibility study to ensure that it offers the
correct tourism product to the market;
The conservation aspects of the proposed
park are highly beneficial for a coastline that
is under-protected. NDM support for this
initiative should be secured.
8. Placing of energy generation of
heavy industry that needs to be
located close to a coastline.
The preference for locations for this type of
activity would be in heavily impacted upon
areas of the shoreline, i.e. along the coast,
north of Hondeklipbaai.
Notwithstanding the need to secure the
coastal management zones, location of this
type of activity will bring economic benefits to
the NDM, but could also inversely create
potentially serious environmental threats.
Possible sites to be identified along the
coastline and included in the relevant
municipal IDPs.
5.4.8.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Clarity should be
obtained from mining
companies on the
closure plans for the
mines. Planning for the
future use of the
coastline should be
development taking into
account these
deadlines.
Closure plan Mining Area Future Use
Planning Document
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
DWA
Access to the coastline,
in the southern and
less disturbed parts of
the NDM should be
secured. The objective
is to open up further
areas of the coast for
tourism development.
Secure access to coastline Number of additional coastal
access points
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
Representations should
be made to the
Department of Mineral
Resources to intercede
on behalf of the NDM to
determine the planned
scope and duration of
Duration of rehabilitation plan Analysis of mine Closure
Plans
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
rehabilitation plans
along the entire length
of NDM coastline.
Closure plans should
be commented upon by
the NDM to ensure that
the interests of the
NDM are contained in
the plans.
Comments on closure plans by
NDM.
Analysis of mine Closure
Plans
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
The NDM should
initiate a programme to
ensure state ownership
of as much of the
theoretical Coastal
Public Property as
possible is secured for
future use.
Ownership of CPP by the state Length of CPP land in state
hands
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
Landownership of the
entire length of Atlantic
coast should be
determined.
Determine the landowners of
the entire Atlantic coast.
Land Ownership Report
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
All municipal IDPs with
an Atlantic coastline
should have the
theoretical Coastal
Public Property
All municipal IDPs with an
Atlantic coastline should have
the theoretical Coastal Public
Property demarcated.
CPP Line in each LM IDP
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
demarcated. As state
land ownership over
this land is achieved,
the theoretical
demarcation can be
changed to an actual
demarcation of the
Coastal Public
Property.
Representations should
be made to the
Department of Mineral
Resources to intercede
on behalf of the NDM to
negotiate transfer of
mining land to state
hands. Funds to
achieve this object
should be secured.
Alexkor land should
present less of a
challenge than De
Beers owned land,
since Alexkor is state
owned.
Transfer on mining land to
state.
Length of CPP land in state
hands
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
All development in the
theoretical Coastal
Public Property zone
No development along in the
theoretical CCP zone.
Project tracking DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
should be prohibited. DWA
All municipal IDPs with
an Atlantic coastline
should have the
Coastal Protection
Zone identified and
demarcated. A Coastal
Management Plan
should regulate
development in this
zone. To achieve
management objectives
in this zone state
ownership of the land is
not necessary, nor
desirable.
All municipal IDPs with an
Atlantic coastline should have
the Coastal Protection Zone
identified and demarcated.
CPZ Line in each LM IDP
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
The coastline access
points that have been
obtained should be
improved to expand the
tourism offering in this
regard.
Improve coastline access Number of additional coastal
access points
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
Hondeklipbaai should
have the road improved
to allow access and the
necessary
Improve road on Hondeklipbaai Improved road to
Hondeklipbaai
Department of Roads and
Public Works Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
infrastructure installed
to cater for increased
volumes of tourists.
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
Expansion of the
tourism product to
include industrial tours
of the diamond mine
workings is a unique
draw card that can be
offered by the NDM.
Industrial tours of the diamond
mine workings.
Project tracking
DENC
Relevant municipal units DWA
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Investigate the
possibility of making
the necessary
improvements to a
beach at McDougalls
Bay or in Port Nolloth in
order for it the achieve
Blue Flag Status.
Improve McDougalls Bay or
Port Nolloth beaches to achieve
Blue Flag status.
Project tracking
DWA
DENC
Department of Roads and
Public Works Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Relevant municipal units
Consideration should
be given to constructing
a breakwater at Port
Nolloth. This would
allow safe harbour for
vessels other that
diamond miners and
would potentially open
Construction of a breakwater at
Port Nolloth.
Project tracking
.
DWA
DENC
Department of Roads and
Public Works Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Relevant municipal units
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
up the fishing industry
and ocean based
tourism.
The expansion of the
NNP should receive a
financial feasibility
study to ensure that it
offers the correct
tourism product to the
market.
Financial backing to the
expansion of NNP.
Project tracking
DWA
DENC
Relevant municipal units
The conservation
aspects of the
proposed park are
highly beneficial for a
coastline that is under-
protected. NDM
support for this initiative
should be secured.
Secure support from NDM. Project tracking
DENC
Relevant municipal units
The preference for
locations for this type of
activity would be in
heavily impacted upon
areas of the shoreline,
i.e. along the coast,
north of Hondeklipbaai.
Location should be along the
coast, north of Hondeklipbaai
Project Tracking
DENC
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Notwithstanding the
need to secure the
coastal management
Conserve the coastal
management zones.
Project Tracking DENC
DWA
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Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
zones, location of this
type of activity will bring
economic benefits to
the NDM.
Relevant municipal units
Possible sites to be
identified along the
coastline and included
in the relevant
municipal IDPs.
Identify the possible sites along
the coastline.
IDP project DENC
DWA
Relevant municipal units
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5.4.8.5 Desired State of the Environment
The coastline should be secured for conservation management by establishing
desirable landownership and management frameworks along the entire length of
coastline. The coastline should be restored its previous condition and the
remaining pristine areas should be protected and conserved.
5.4.9 Social Environment
5.4.9.1 Constraints
The levels of education in the NDM are generally low. The vast majority of
the population’s educational status equips them for manual and/or other
forms of un-skilled labour.
All educational institutions within the District are located in the main towns
thus restricting access to education to youth within commuting distance of
the larger population settlements.
Population density in the NDM is very low thus increasing the costs of
providing basic services to the population. Either these costs are accepted,
or efforts are made to further encourage urbanisation and densification
within the district.
The outward migration of younger inhabitants of the NDM to other areas of
the country is cause for concern since economic and social dynamism
decreases. The cause of this migration is perceived to be better economic
and social opportunities elsewhere.
Income levels in the NDM are generally low, with 76% of the population in
2001 earning less than R3 200 per month. This implies that the level of
economic activity, and the nature of this activity, is insufficient to support
the population.
Education levels in the NDM are generally low, with 79% of the population
in 2001 not having matric. This implies that the level of economic activity,
and the nature of this activity, is insufficient to support the population.
5.4.9.2 Opportunities
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 241
An opportunity exists to expand the Adult Basic Education Programme
(ABEP) and Artisan Skills Training Programmes (AKTP) in the NDM. These
programmes have been established to re-skill and up-skill those whose
basic education has been lacking.
Large-scale success in this endeavour will result in a better skilled
workforce, ready to take advantage of the higher skilled jobs that are on
offer by a modern economy such as exists in the NDM.
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is set up by the
Department of Public Works to provide work opportunities to un-skilled
people whilst carrying out works of regional importance. Projects that are
implemented using the EPWP programme include mass services
infrastructure such as road construction, water, and sanitation and
electricity provision. They also include environmental projects such as
Working for Water and Working for Wetlands. Given the higher proportion
of un-skilled people in the NDM, projects such as this will be highly effective
in poverty alleviation efforts and in providing working skills to many
programme beneficiaries.
Due to the migration of people towards the urban centres, an opportunity
exists to provide services at lower unit costs than would have been the
case if the migration had not occurred.
Most of the population lives in brick houses, which are more permanent and
thus easier to service than informal dwellings.
5.4.9.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Low education levels amongst
the population of the NDM
Provision of suitable and sufficient
educational facilities for the youth;
Implement education awareness campaigns
that stress the need for an education in order
to access opportunities in the modern
economy;
Encourage the development and operation of
ABET facilities in the NDM.
2. Low income levels in the NDM Provision of economic opportunities geared
towards the employment of relatively low
skilled employees.
Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME)
developments and poverty alleviation projects
to target the unskilled.
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 242
Strategic Issue Management Measures
Encourage economic sectors that are capable
of providing mass employment, examples
include tourism, logistics, retail and wholesale
trade and agriculture.
3. Relatively low population
density in the urban areas.
Encourage urban densification by creating
development boundaries around each
population centre in the NDM. This should be
done at SDF level for each local municipality.
Take advantage of the higher population
densities by proving better services to
residents of the main urban areas, this, in turn
will encourage further migration into these
areas.
4. Outward migration of younger
members of the NDM
population.
The measures taken to boost income levels
are applicable;
Increasing urban densities would enable
better social opportunities, thus the
management measures above are applicable.
5. Encouraging the use of labour
intensive or EPWP construction
methodologies.
Ensure that all government construction
projects are conducted using the EPWP
methodologies;
Encourage all private development projects to
use the same methodologies through the EIA
comment process or the town planning
approval process.
6. Reducing service provision cost
per unit of the population, thus
being able to service high
numbers of the population at
the same costs.
Increasing densities will increase the
efficiency of resource utilisation in the NDM.
Better quality services should be designed
into projects in the existing urban areas, to
encourage urban migration; Services in this
context include potable water, sanitation,
electricity supplies, roads, housing and
educational and health facilities.
5.4.9.4 Monitoring Indicators
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 243
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Provision of suitable
and sufficient
educational facilities for
the youth.
Educational facilities for youth. Number of schools per 1
000 children of school going
age
Department of Education
Relevant municipal units
Implement education
awareness campaigns
that stress the need for
an education in order to
access opportunities in
the modern economy.
Provide education to NDM
communities.
Campaign awareness
measures
Department of Social
Development
Department of Education
Relevant municipal units
Encourage the
development and
operation of ABET
facilities in the NDM.
ABET facilities Number of functioning ABET
Facilities
Department of Education Relevant municipal units
Provision of economic
opportunities geared
towards the
employment of
relatively low skilled
employees.
Opportunities for low skilled
employees
Project tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Small, Medium and
Micro Enterprise
Poverty alleviation projects Number of SMME projects Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 244
(SMME) developments
and poverty alleviation
projects to target the
unskilled.
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Encourage economic
sectors that are
capable of providing
mass employment,
examples include
tourism, logistics, retail
and wholesale trade
and agriculture.
Employment opportunities to
NDM communities.
Unemployment rate
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Encourage urban
densification by
creating development
boundaries around
each population centre
in the NDM. This
should be done at SDF
level for each local
municipality.
Urban densification Population density within
urban settlements
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Take advantage of the
higher population
densities by proving
better services to
residents of the main
urban areas, this, in
turn will encourage
Provide better services to urban
areas.
SDF measures adopted
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
NDM EMF & SEMP FINAL REPORT
Nemai Consulting C.C. 245
further migration into
these areas. The
measures taken to
boost income levels are
applicable.
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Increasing urban
densities would enable
better social
opportunities, thus the
management measures
above are applicable.
Provide better services to urban
areas.
Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Ensure that all
government
construction projects
are conducted using
the EPWP
methodologies.
Projects through EPWP Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Encourage all private
development projects
to use the same
Projects through EPWP Project Tracking Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 246
methodologies through
the EIA comment
process or the town
planning approval
process.
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
DENC
Increasing densities will
increase the efficiency
of resource utilisation in
the NDM. Better quality
services should be
designed into project in
the existing urban
areas, to encourage
urban migration;
Services in this context
include potable water,
sanitation, electricity
supplies, roads,
housing and
educational and health
facilities.
Provide better services to urban
areas.
Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Department of Social
Development Relevant municipal units
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Department of Health
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 247
5.4.9.5 Desired State of the Environment
A growing population in which the basic needs of all residents are
addressed, and to provide sufficient economic and social opportunities that
ensure the population’s health and happiness.
5.4.10 Infrastructure and Service Provision
5.4.10.1 Constraints
The lack of good quality transport routes to access the coastline and to
open up important tourism areas for further exploitation is a constraint to
the development of tourism.
Groundwater sources are subject to pollution and require high levels of
upkeep. This is a challenge in smaller, isolated communities.
Small communities in sparsely populated areas make effective electricity
distribution very expensive.
Rural dwellers and the poor do not have access to well developed public
transport infrastructure and it is difficult to establish these networks due to
low population densities.
Lack of waste collection services within the rural areas results in waste
being dumped in unsuitable areas and burned, thus negatively impacting
the environment.
There is a lack of recycling projects and initiatives to reduce waste levels
within the NDM.
5.4.10.2 Opportunities
Providing improved access to tourism destinations would increase the size
of the tourism market in the NDM. In particular, projects such as upgrading
the road to Hondeklipbaai and improving access to the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld
Transfrontier National Park would yield tourism benefits.
The number of households without piped water in the District is relatively
low.
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Due to the climate of the region there is great potential to utilise solar
energy more widely, especially in the remote areas of the District
The main transport infrastructure in the District is well positioned to deal
with increased number of tourists and commercial traffic.
There is a need to upgrade landfill sites and implement recycling projects in
all settlements to DWAF standards; also to improve and develop waste
management practices that have minimal impact on the environment and to
develop recycling initiatives and projects that will benefit the environment
and will provide employment opportunities for the local people.
5.4.10.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
3. Opening of road networks to
allow better access to tourist
areas and maintenance of
existing roads.
Improve the road access to Hondeklipbaai;
Improve the road access to the Ai-
Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier National Park.
4. Improved service for isolated
settlements and rural dwellers.
Retrofit groundwater sources with high
technology treatment plants that are lower
maintenance and provide better quality water.
Investigate the use of solar power to provide
electricity to isolated communities.
Efficient public transport networks should be
investigated in the NDM. These networks
would service isolated communities by means
of taxis. The NDM should improve the current
taxi rank infrastructure to all needy
communities to facilitate taxi route
development;
7. Improvements in waste
management practise.
All landfill sites in the NDM should be
permitted and operated in accordance with
their permit conditions.
Establish recycling initiatives in the larger
towns; Springbok, Port Nolloth and Calvinia.
5.4.10.4 Monitoring Indicators
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 249
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Improve the road
access to
Hondeklipbaai.
Improve the road access to
Hondeklipbaai.
Project tracking
Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Department of Roads and
Public Works
Relevant municipal units
Improve the road
access to the Ai-
Ais/Richtersveld
Transfrontier National
Park.
Improve the road access to the
Ai-Ais/Richtersveld
Transfrontier National Park.
Project Tracking
Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Department of Roads and
Public Works
Relevant municipal units
Retrofit groundwater
sources with high
technology treatment
plants that are lower
maintenance and
provide better quality
water.
Retrofit groundwater sources
with high technology treatment
plants.
Number of settlements using
low technology water
treatment systems.
DWA
Relevant municipal units
Investigate the use of
solar power to provide
electricity to isolated
communities.
Provide electricity to poor
communities
Project Tracking
DMR
Relevant municipal units
Department of Social
Development
Efficient public Provision of efficient public Average journey times Department of Transport,
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 250
transport networks
should be investigated
in the NDM. These
networks would service
isolated communities
by means of taxis. The
NDM should improve
the current taxi rank
infrastructure is all
needy communities to
facilitate taxi route
development.
transport to NDM communities. between isolated
settlements and the main
economic and social centres
Safety and Liaison
Department of Roads and
Public Works
Relevant municipal units
All landfill sites in the
NDM should be
permitted and operated
in accordance with their
permit conditions.
All landfill sites should be
permitted in NDM
Number of unpermitted
landfills
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Establish recycling
initiatives in the larger
towns; Springbok, Port
Nolloth and Calvinia.
Identify recycling initiatives. Project Tracking
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 251
5.4.10.5 Desired State of the Environment
Infrastructure and service provision should be at a level to provide the
necessary support to NDM inhabitants to improve their economic and social
condition. Service provision, and services, should be designed and
conducted so as to have as small an environmental impact as possible.
5.4.11 Economic Environment
5.4.11.1 Constraints
High levels of unemployment and economic inactivity are of concern in the
NDM. This is due to the nature of the economy, the size of the markets and
education levels.
The economic environment is characterised by an undiversified economy
and a strong reliance on agriculture and mining. The region is also
characterised by a virtually nonexistent manufacturing industry. A traditional
mainstay of the NDM economy has been the mining industry. This industry
is in its sunset phase and thus cannot be relied upon to drive economic
growth in the future.
5.4.11.2 Opportunities
Sustainable alternative employment opportunities should be investigated.
There is a need for diversification of the economy within the NDM which will
strengthen the economy in the region and benefit the local community by
increased employment opportunities.
The diversification of the economy to include other economic activities such
as energy generation, technological projects and tourism represent options
that provide long term sustainable economic growth and development.
An increase and expansion of tourism in the NDM will yield great economic
benefits. Economic benefits will be derived from projects in energy
generation and technology. Every encouragement should be given to these
new sources of income.
An expansion of agricultural activity will have the potential to yield large
economic benefits, thus any expansion of the area under irrigation would
benefit the economy and provide mass employment opportunities. On the
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 252
other hand, sensitive areas such as the Bokkeveld Plateau will be
negatively influenced by an expansion of agricultural activities like the
planting of rooibos tea and will also destroy the biodiversity and decrease
water availability for the ecological reserve at the Ramsar site.
The NDM has developed the District Integrated Development Plans (IDPs)
and the Integrated Economic Development Plan to promote economic
growth within the District. The District aims to develop a Regional and Local
Tourism Development Plan which will also promote economic development
in the region. Implementation of these plans is crucial.
5.4.11.3 Management Strategy
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. High levels of unemployment and
economic inactivity
Diversification of the economy into new
sectors such as energy generation,
technological projects and expansion of
existing activities, such as tourism and
agriculture, should be encouraged.
Suitable job creation, SMME development
and skills development initiatives are
required to assist in raising employment
levels.
The recruitment of local labour for
developments should be encouraged
where possible.
Developments should prioritise the
creation of long-term employment
opportunities.
Involvement in the poverty alleviation and
job creation projects of the Expanded
Public Works Programme (EPWP) should
be investigated.
2. Implementation of the economic
development strategies proposed
in the various local municipal
IDPs.
Implementation of the economic aspects of
the IDPs
5.4.11.4 Monitoring Indicators
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Nemai Consulting C.C. 253
The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Diversification of the
economy into new
sectors such as energy
generation,
technological projects
and expansion of
existing activities, such
as tourism and
agriculture, should be
encouraged.
Encourage diversification of
economy.
Sector contribution to NDM
GGP
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
DMR
Relevant municipal units
Suitable job creation,
SMME development
and skills development
initiatives are required
to assist in raising
employment levels.
Employment opportunities to
local people.
Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
The recruitment of local
labour for
developments should
be encouraged where
possible.
Employ local people Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
Developments should
prioritise the creation of
long-term employment
opportunities.
Long-term employment
opportunities.
Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
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Involvement in the
poverty alleviation and
job creation projects of
the Expanded Public
Works Programme
(EPWP) should be
investigated.
Involvement in EPWP Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
Implementation of the
economic aspects of
the IDPs.
Implementation of IDP
programme.
Project Tracking
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5.4.11.5 Desired State of the Environment
An economy that is sufficiently large to provide full employment, across the
employment spectrum, for all inhabitants. The economy should be
sufficiently diversified to reduce its reliance on sunset industries and
setbacks in particular economic sectors.
The goods and services provided by the environment, in the quest for
economic growth, should be sustainably used so as to benefit both present
and future residents of the NDM.
5.4.12 Tourism
5.4.12.1 Constraints
The NDM offers natural and cultural heritage resources that can attract
both local and international tourists. However tourism in the District has not
reached its full potential.
Eco-tourism and adventure tourism need appropriate management. Poor
practices include uncontrolled quad biking and informal camping by river
rafters along the Orange River. These practices increase land degradation
through the deterioration and possible loss of natural vegetation.
5.4.12.2 Opportunities
Successful market awareness campaigns are important in order to promote
the NDM.
A tourism development plan should be implemented to identify
opportunities by promoting partnership investments.
Growth areas identified within the tourism industry are: eco-tourism,
adventure tourism and technological tourism.
The inclusion of local communities into tourism development programmes
is important for the sustainable economic growth of the NDM as well as
promoting biodiversity conservation in the region.
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The varied landscape of the NDM represents an important factor in
promoting sustainable tourism developments. Wetlands can be promoted
as tourist attractions within the NDM. The development of scenic routes will
enhance tourism development in the region.
5.4.12.3 Management Strategy
Strategic Issue Management Measures
1. Tourism as a relatively
underdeveloped industry in the
study area.
Further explore opportunities in both cultural
and ecological and technological tourism in
the region, given the proximity of various
significant sites.
Evaluate the protection of suitable visually
appealing and ecologically significant areas,
in order to promote the conservation value
of the study area.
Engage with the provincial roads authority to
provide improved access to area with high
tourist potential.
Ensure that places of cultural and ecological
interest in the secondary nodes are properly
advertised and accessible.
Individual enterprise encouraged as a
means for filling or developing the market
demand for tourism.
2. Environmental damage caused
by uncontrolled eco and
adventure tourism.
An Environmental Management Plan
focused upon the potential impacts of the
eco and adventure tourism markets should
be developed. This document would provide
a basis for control of such environmental
impacts. Where necessary by-laws for this
sector should be developed.
3. Local community involvement in
tourism activities should be
encouraged wherever possible.
The NDM should provide means for smaller
operators to access the tourism market,
ideas in this regard are to allow smaller
operators access to a central tourism
website and to facilitate the inclusion of
smaller operators in the booking systems of
the accommodation and tours booking
agencies active in the NDM.
Providing road access to isolated
communities would allow grater community
participation in tourism ventures.
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5.4.12.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Further explore
opportunities in both
cultural and ecological
and technological
tourism in the region,
given the proximity of
various significant sites.
Opportunities in cultural,
ecological and technological
tourism.
Implement tourism
development plan
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
Evaluate the protection
of suitable visually
appealing and
ecologically significant
areas, in order to
promote the
conservation value of
the study area.
Protection of visually appealing
and ecological important areas.
Project Tracking
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
DENC
Engage with the
provincial roads
authority to provide
improved access to
area with high tourist
potential.
Improve access roads Kilometres of roads
improved to provide access
to tourism areas.
Department of Transport,
Safety and Liaison
Department of Roads and
Public Works
Relevant municipal units
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Ensure that places of
cultural and ecological
interest in the
secondary nodes are
properly advertised and
accessible.
Advertise cultural and
ecological important areas.
Project Tracking
DENC
Department of Cooperative
Governance, Human
Settlement and Traditional
Affairs
Individual enterprise
encouraged as a
means for filling or
developing the market
demand for tourism.
Individual enterprise Tourism sector contribution
as a percentage of GGP.
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
An Environmental
Management Plan
focused upon the
potential impacts of the
eco and adventure
tourism markets should
be developed. This
document would
provide a basis for
control of such
environmental impacts.
Where necessary by-
laws for this sector
should be developed.
Develop an EMP Final Environmental
Management Plan
Eco and adventure tourism
by-laws adopted.
DENC
Department of Finance,
Economic Development and
Tourism
Relevant municipal units
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5.4.12.5 Desired State of the Environment
The preservation and sustainable utilisation of the region’s ecological,
cultural and historical heritage, in order to promote employment, tourism
and sustainable development that is of broad benefit to residents.
5.4.13 Mining
5.4.13.1 Constraints
The areas of un-rehabilitated or poorly rehabilitated mining activities have a
negative impact on the natural and scenic environment within the NDM.
The constraint of having an unrehabilitated coastline in perpetuity cannot
be overstated and is estimated by the authors to be the most serious
environmental risk facing the NDM.
The curtailment of mining activity will have a negative effect upon
employment and the economy of the NDM. Whilst the protection of
ecological systems is an important goal, especially the securing of
biodiversity after mine closure, the economic and social benefits of mining
in the NDM cannot be ignored.
5.4.13.2 Opportunities
The rehabilitation of the old or declining mines within the NDM is important
for the protection of the natural environment and the increased tourism,
development and aesthetic appeal. Rehabilitation of mines is a critical issue
for the NDM, if large mines such as the coastal diamond mines are closed
without proper rehabilitation, the NDM will have to deal with the
unrehabilitated coastline in perpetuity. The NDM would be constrained in
developing its economy, tourism and ecological protection of the coastline.
Coastal diamond mines are of particular concern since the nature of the
impact, the extent of the impact and the duration of the existing
environmental impacts are larger than that of a traditional mine such as
Black Mountain or O’kiep. Concern is also heightened by the imminent
closure of the mines and the overall lack of engagement with mining
companies over this issue.
It is important to note the conservation agreement managed by the Black
Mountain mine covering approximately 23 000 ha of mine holdings near
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Aggeneys which represents an important biodiversity habitat. If this
agreement is successfully implemented, it will provide a template on how
the protect ecosystems, whilst providing the economic benefits of the mine.
Mining projects should be encouraged in the NDM, subject to appropriate
environmental controls. Thus the NDM should actively provide support to
mining projects that are long-term and whose environmental impacts can
be successfully managed.
5.4.13.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
5. Mining activity should be
encouraged in the NDM. This
activity should have the
appropriate controls over the
environmental impacts.
NDM should provide mining projects with the
necessary institutional support that would be
required to get these projects into sustainable
operation;
The NDM reviews of mining project’s EMPRs
should focus on the environmental impacts of
the mine and whether or not these can be
successfully mitigated. A special focus should
be placed on the closure plans and the end
planned use of the area after mining has been
completed. If these aspects of the mining plan
are satisfactory, mining should be encouraged
by the NDM.
6. Rehabilitation of coastal
diamond mines.
Obtain the closure plans of mines with short
remaining life of mine and review these
documents critically. This applies especially to
the coastal diamond mines where
transformation of the natural vegetation over
large areas has been total.
The DME should be lobbied to ensure that
complete rehabilitation is carried-out by these
mines
Closure plans that offer to trade complete
rehabilitation off against the transfer of
infrastructure or land should be viewed with
suspicion. It is likely that the environmental
liability and the costs to the economy of
incomplete rehabilitation would be greater
than the benefit derived from infrastructure or
land ownership.
Any transfer of ownership of these declining
assets should be carefully reviewed whenever
the opportunity presents itself. Of particular
concern should be which party holds the
environmental liability of the mining land.
Strategically, the best outcome for the NDM
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Strategic Issue Management Measures
would be to ensure that the environmental
liability remains with the owner that has
access to the largest financial resources. In
this light ownership transfer schemes that
purport to improve local ownership should be
viewed with circumspection, since local
owners do not have access to the resources
to carry out rehabilitation works.
In the case of Alexkor, caution should be
exercised by NDM managers to ensure that
the primary result of the historic land claim
won by the Richtersveld Community is not
their ownership of the liability for
environmental cleanup of the mine. This may
be one of the unintended consequences of
the Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture
currently being embarked upon by both
parties.
5.4.13.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
NDM should provide
mining projects with the
necessary institutional
support that would be
required to get these
projects into
sustainable operation.
Institutional support to mining. Number of new of
expansions to mining
projects
DMR
Relevant municipal units
The NDM reviews of
mining project’s
EMPRs should focus
on the environmental
impacts of the mine
and whether or not
these can be
successfully mitigated.
A special focus should
be placed on the
closure plans and the
end planned use of the
area after mining has
been completed. If
these aspects of the
mining plan are
satisfactory, mining
Reviews of mining project’s
EMPRs should focus on
impacts of mine to
environment.
Formal result of EMPR
review;
Hectares of mine land
returned to planned closure
use
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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should be encouraged
by the NDM.
Obtain the closure
plans of mines with
short remaining life of
mine and review these
documents critically.
This applies especially
to the coastal diamond
mines where
transformation of the
natural vegetation over
large areas has been
total.
Closure plan Formal result of EMPR
review
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
The DMR should be
lobbied to ensure that
complete rehabilitation
is carried by these
mines.
Enforce rehabilitation of mines. Project Tracking
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Closure plans that offer
to trade complete
rehabilitation off against
the transfer of
infrastructure or land
should be viewed with
suspicion. It is likely
that the environmental
liability and the costs to
the economy of
incomplete
Closure plan Memorandum of
understanding with DMR
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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rehabilitation would be
greater than the benefit
derived from
infrastructure or land
ownership.
Any transfer of
ownership of these
declining assets should
be carefully reviewed
whenever the
opportunity presents
itself. Of particular
concern should be
which party holds the
environmental liability
of the mining land.
Strategically, the best
outcome for the NDM
would be to ensure that
the environmental
liability remains with the
owner that has access
to the largest financial
resources. In this light
ownership transfer
schemes that purport to
improve local
ownership should be
viewed with
Ownership of assets Percentage of the impacted
coastline returned to
planned closure use
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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circumspection, since
local owners do not
have access to the
resources to carry out
rehabilitation works.
In the case of Alexkor,
caution should be
exercised by NDM
managers to ensure
that the primary result
of the historic land
claim won by the
Richtersveld
Community is not their
ownership of the
liability for
environmental cleanup
of the mine. This may
be one of the
unintended
consequences of the
Pooling and Sharing
Joint Venture currently
being embarked upon
by both parties.
NDM managers should ensure
that the primary result of the
historic land claim won by the
Richtersveld Community is not
their ownership of the liability
for environmental cleanup of
the mine
Percentage of the impacted
coastline returned to
planned closure use
DMR
DENC
Relevant municipal units
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5.4.13.5 Desired State of the Environment
Mining in the NDM should be encouraged where the mining can be carried
out with a minimum of environmental impact and where the mining area
can be returned to planned closure use after mine closure.
Existing mine rehabilitation should be complete and effective to allow
continued beneficial use of the mining area by all inhabitants of the NDM.
5.4.14 Agriculture
5.4.14.1 Constraints
Overgrazing is a major threat to biodiversity within the NDM. The situation
is particularly severe in Pella, Komaggas, Richtersveld, Steinkopf,
Concordia and Kamiesfontein.
The NDM is an area which is susceptible to land degradation and
desertification. Policies and programs are required to promote and ensure
the sustainable management of land resources within the District. Williston
and Fraserburg are commercial farming areas within the District where land
degradation is a serious problem
5.4.14.2 Opportunities
Sustainable agricultural practices are needed to avoid further land
degradation within the NDM.
Stock farming guidelines are required and if adopted will have positive
conservation benefits.
The development of the fishing and mariculture sector is considered a good
alternative to mining. This alternative has good economic potential for the
three coastal local municipalities: Kamiesberg, Nama Khoi and
Richtersveld.
Increased manufacturing and sustainable growth can empower the local
farmers and in turn benefit the local community.
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5.4.14.3 Management of the Element
Strategic Issue Management Measures
7. Overgrazing Implement and enforce the grazing by-laws
adopted by local municipalities in the district
Stock farming guidelines for the NDM should
be developed and used by authorities,
community representatives and organised
agriculture.
8. Addressing land degradation
generally, but with a focus on
the Williston and Fraserburg
area.
Sound agricultural practices to be promoted in
order to maintain and enhance the soil’s
agricultural potential.
Soil conservation measures to be adopted
where appropriate
Implementation of these measures should be
through the EIA process where the
agricultural project requires environmental
authorisation;
Enforcement using CARA should be used in
cases where the EIA process does not apply.
9. Game farming expansion Game farming should be encouraged where
possible due to its contribution to tourism and
its generally reduced ecological impact when
compared to stock farming;
Game management needs to be practised to
ensure that the farms are stocked with
indigenous species and that the carrying
capacity of the land is not exceeded.
The construction of access roads on game
farms should be controlled through the EIA
process. A layout plan of the tracks required
on the game farm should be submitted with all
EIA applications to allow for the appropriate
control.
Hunting regulations to be enforced.
10. Expansion of irrigated
agriculture, with water being
provided by the Orange River.
DWA should be approached with the
suggestion regarding the feasibility of a dam
located after the Fish River confluence on the
Orange River;
DWA should also be approached with regards
to increasing the scope for irrigated
agriculture, using water allocated from the
Lower Orange Water Management Area.
Dept of Agriculture should be approached to
determine the feasibility of expanding irrigated
agriculture in the vicinity of the Orange River
and alongside the existing raw water pipe to
Springbok.
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5.4.14.4 Monitoring Indicators
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The following monitoring indicators should be used to track progress on each of the issues above.
Strategic Issue Target Monitoring Indicator Roles and
Responsibilities
Implement and enforce
the grazing by-laws
adopted by local
municipalities in the
district.
Enforce grazing by-laws Number of enforcement
measures undertaken
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
Water User Associations
Relevant municipal units
Stock farming
guidelines for the NDM
should be developed
and used by
authorities, community
representatives and
organised agriculture.
Develop guidelines for stock
farming
Development and use of
stock farming guidelines;
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Sound agricultural
practices to be
promoted in order to
maintain and enhance
the soil’s agricultural
potential.
Promote sound agricultural
practices
Number of enforcement
measures undertaken
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
Soil conservation
measures to be
adopted where
appropriate.
Adopt soil conservation
measures
Project Tracking
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
Relevant municipal units
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Implementation of
these measures should
be through the EIA
process where the
agricultural project
requires environmental
authorisation.
EIA process to be followed Project Tracking
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Enforcement using
CARA should be used
in cases where the EIA
process does not apply.
Apply CARA Project Tracking
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Game farming should
be encouraged where
possible due to its
contribution to tourism
and its generally
reduced ecological
impact when compared
to stock farming.
Encourage game farming Project Tracking
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
DENC
Relevant municipal units
Game management
needs to be practised
to ensure that the farms
are stocked with
indigenous species and
that the carrying
capacity of the land is
not exceeded.
Practice game management Number of enforcement
measures undertaken
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
DENC
Relevant municipal units
The construction of Control construction of access Number of enforcement NCDALR
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access roads on game
farms should be
controlled through the
EIA process. A layout
plan of the tracks
required on the game
farm should be
submitted with all EIA
applications to allow for
the appropriate control.
roads on game farms measures undertaken DENC
Relevant municipal units
Hunting regulations to
be enforced.
Enforce hunting regulations Feasibility Investigation
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
Hunting Associations
Relevant municipal units
DWA should be
approached with the
suggestion regarding
the feasibility of a dam
located after the Fish
River confluence on the
Orange River.
Construction of Dam Feasibility Investigation
DWA
DENC
DWA should also be
approached with
regards increasing the
scope for irrigated
agriculture, using water
allocated from the
Lower Orange Water
Increase irrigated agriculture Feasibility Investigation
DWA
DENC
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Management Area.
Dept of Agriculture
should be approached
to determine the
feasibility of expanding
irrigated agriculture in
the vicinity of the
Orange River and
alongside the existing
raw water pipe to
Springbok.
Increase irrigated agriculture Feasibility Investigation
NCDALR
Agricultural Sector
DENC
Hunting Associations
Relevant municipal units
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5.4.14.5 Desired State of the Environment
Agriculture in the NDM is an important economic resource and should be
expanded where ecological considerations allow and where good
agricultural practice is followed. Existing poor agricultural practice is to be
rectified and rehabilitated through enforcement actions. The feasibility of
securing additional water sources should be investigated.
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CHAPTER 6. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ZONES
6.1 Purpose
The purpose of developing Environmental Management Zones (EMZ) in an
Environmental Management Framework is to establish the sensitivity of the
environment in a given area and the development of appropriate management
measures for each feature.
These control zones, along with the management measures will not dictate the
type of development allowed but will give an indication of that environment’s
resilience to various types of development.
Due to the scale of this project it is advisable that due cognisance of surrounding
management zones be undertaken in order to get a representative impression of
the area studied.
A computerized Geographical Information System (GIS) was used to map all the
biophysical elements recorded in the study area. For the Status Quo phase of
the Namakwa EMF and SEMP, the following biophysical attributes were
described, and mapped:
SKEP Sites;
SANParks;
Provincial Nature Reserves
Coastline;
Priority Areas;
Biodiversity Corridors;
Nature Reserves;
Kloofs;
Rivers;
Slopes;
Wetlands;
Population Centres;
Cultural and Historical Features;
Mines; and
Climatic Regions.
The information was used to compile an environmental sensitivity map that was
used to manage the area.
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It is important to note that the accuracy of this document is restricted to the
accuracy of information sourced during the Status Quo phase of the
development of this EMP. In a constantly changing environment features may
change in significance, sensitivity and importance in a short time period. This
system is therefore a potential existing document that should be updated
constantly to keep up with changes in the environment.
An A3 map of the Environmental Management Zones is contained as Appendix
B.
6.2 Methodology
6.2.1 Introduction
The methodology for management zones has been developed based on
principles of various assessment methods but relies heavily on the Overlay
Analysis.
This refers to the integration of different data layers during a process of
overlaying. This could be conducted as a visual operation or analytical operation
that requires joining more than one data layer to show distinct combination of
attributes and determine the environmental vulnerability of a given area.
6.2.2 Process for Development of Environmental Management Zones
The NDM has been overlaid with a grid. The grid size is 4,7km x 5,5km. This
size was selected for a number of reasons:
Due to the size of the study, it is expected that this is the most
useful size to give an overall image of the study area without
compromising the importance level of each environmental
feature.
This is the same size as the 1:10 000 orthophotos. In other
words, a single block can be investigated and compared to the
Orthophoto of the area. This is useful in cross-referencing of
information.
This grid size makes provision for sufficient buffer areas
around each feature.
The second step in the development of the environmental management zones
was to assign a sensitivity rating to each environmental attribute that was
sourced during the status quo of this study. An explanation of the Environmental
Sensitivity Index (ESI) is provided in Section 6.3 of this document.
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A standard query was conducted to assign each grid block with a rating
equivalent to the sensitivity of the environmental attributes in that block. The
highest sensitivity of each block took precedence over any other attributes and
the block was therefore by default assigned to an Environmental Management
Zone with the same rating as the highest rated environmental sensitivity in that
area. Please refer to Plate 19 and Plate 20 for a demonstration of process.
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Plate 19 Calculation for ESI Rating
This is the area near Damsfontein River, in the Karoo Hoogland Municipality. The river has an ESI Rating of D but there
are critical biodiversity sites in the same area, with an ESI of A. This the whole block is assigned into EMZ “A”.
River –
ESI Rating D
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Plate 20 Resultant EMZ Assignment
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Population centres have been excluded from the principle above of precedence
of the highest rating. The reason for this is because there has been a high level
of impact on developed areas and it is therefore assumed that environmental
attributes have already been impacted upon and should therefore be reduced to
give a true reflection of the area in question.
6.3 Environmental Management Zones
The Environmental Management Zones are derived from the Environmental
Sensitivity Index for each of the environmental attributes within a given block.
The Environmental Sensitivity Index has been developed to make provision for
seven categories. These categories vary from critical to very low and there is a
category for not applicable. Please refer to Table 46 for a description of each
element of the sensitivity index.
Table 46 Environmental Sensitivity Index
EMZ ESI Description
A Critical
The zone includes a number of environmentally sensitive
features and development should be avoided. If the development
is critical to the economic and social wellbeing of the local
population, utmost care should be taken to avoid impacts and
mitigate where possible.
B Very High
Several environmentally sensitive features are present.
Development should be restricted in terms of type and magnitude
of impact. This rating is not very lenient in terms of development
but does recognise that development cannot be excluded where
compelling economic and social benefits will be derived for the
local and regional population. All legislative requirements should
be adhered to and a fully inclusive consideration of the
biophysical receptors should be undertaken. Development in
these areas will also require a comprehensive public participation
process with input from stakeholders and government
organisations.
C High
These areas include environmentally sensitive features.
Development in this zone must serve to complement the area
and should be limited where relevant. Adequate provision should
be made for the protection of environmental features and a fully
inclusive participation process should be conducted.
D Medium
These areas include environmentally sensitive features which are
relatively common in the study area. Development must be
guided by the constraints offered by the site and must be ensure
that adequate provision is made for protection of environmental
features. Applicable legislation should drive the process to be
followed.
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EMZ ESI Description
E Low
The area is regarded to have little environmental sensitivity in
comparison to the Zones A to D. Development should be
facilitated in this area whilst ensuring compliance to existing
legislation and best practice approaches.
F Very Low
The area is regarded to have been potentially has been heavily
impacted upon. Development should be facilitated in this area
whilst ensuring compliance to existing legislation and best
practice approaches.
G Not applicable No rating was provided due to lack of relevant information.
The criteria used in determining the ESI rating was based on the following:
Uniqueness of the feature
Biophysical importance of the feature
Percentage of groundcover in the study area
Replaceability of the feature
Existing conservation status
Existing biophysical degradation
The following are the environmental elements that make up the ESI, which are in
turn allocated to various Environmental Management Zones.
6.3.1 Critical Sites
Critical biodiversity areas (CBA’s) are terrestrial and aquatic features in the
landscape that are critical for retaining biodiversity and supporting continued
ecosystem functioning and services.
The NDM Critical Biodiversity sites have been developed based on various
sources of biodiversity information. These areas have been defined according to
the Guideline Regarding the Determination of Bioregions and the Preparation
and Publication of Bioregional Plans. These sites reflected on reactive decision
making and land-use legislation, proactive forward planning and proactive
conservation.
All developments, irrespective of type or magnitude, will be subject to
environmental screening, EIA in terms of NEMA where applicable, specialist
investigations, project specific environmental management plans and a
comprehensive public consultation process.
ESI RATING: A
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6.3.2 Important Sites
Important sites form part of the same spectrum as critical biodiversity sites but
are not considered on the same level as critical sites. In the study area important
sites specifically refer to quartz and gravel patches, areas with slopes that cover
surfaces of more than 25 hectares, kloofs that are larger than 50 hectares or
modelled Riverine Rabbit habitat.
ESI RATING: B
6.3.3 Protected Areas
SANPArks manages the indigenous fauna, flora, landscapes and associated
cultural heritage of the country in geographically defined areas. These protected
areas are recognized in the Protected Areas Act. Development in parks are
planned with due consideration of biodiversity of the area. It is therefore
considered appropriate to apply the precautionary principle in the development
of areas neighboring national parks and to cooperate with SANParks in this
regard. The provincial reserves such as Nababieps Nature Reserve and
Garlagskloof are also recognized in NEMPAA.
Furthermore, public nature reserves are included in conservation areas. Several
nature reserves are found in the area of which Goegap Nature Reserve and
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve, Nababiep Nature Reserve and Richtersveld World
Heritage Site are some of the more prominent Nature Reserves.
ESI RATING: B
6.3.4 Coastal line
The Namakwaland Coast area includes 432 plant species, 85 of which are
unique to the Succulent Karoo Hotspot and 44 of which are classified as globally
threatened.
The Northern Cape has an abundance of diamond deposits both onshore and
offshore. Diamond mining and tourism development have transformed much of
the Namakwa coastline.
All mining concession areas have some level of restriction in terms of access to
the area. Marine and coastal resources can therefore not be utilised to their
maximum sustainable capacity for the socio-economic benefit of the people of
the Northern Cape. Due to the limited use of coastal areas, the physical
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infrastructure of the area is also poorly developed and those that do exist are
mostly related to mining use.
The Coastal Public Property, an area 1.2km offshore of the high Water Mark and
45 – 60m above the High Water Mark, is considered a rating of ECI C. This
applies to state land. However, the Coastal Protection Zone covers an area of
approximately 1 km of the High Water Mark. This applies to all land that is un-
zoned or zoned undetermined or agricultural.
Even though large portions of the coast are owned by mining houses, the entire
coastal area has been included. Development in this zone will be restricted.
ESI RATING: C
6.3.5 Priority Areas
Only 2.5% of the Succulent Karoo is formally protected, and the locations of
formal protected areas mean that they do not represent the wide array of
environmental heterogeneity, biodiversity patterns and processes in the region.
Conservation planning exercises generally distinguish between different types of
protected areas, according to the degree of protection of biodiversity provided. A
common distinction made is between statutory and non-statutory reserves.
Statutory reserves are supported by strong legal and institutional structures,
while non-statutory reserves represent varying degrees of legal protection and
institutional capacity that are consistently weaker than statutory protected areas.
ESI RATING: C
6.3.6 Ecological Supporting Areas
The principal goal of corridor-planning is to maintain or restore connectivity
across the landscape. Achieving this requires stimulating the creation of
additional protected areas through voluntary stewardship agreements in the form
of conservation areas, biodiversity agreements and contract nature reserves.
ESI RATING: C
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6.3.7 Rivers
The scarcity of water resources is a defining feature of this arid environment.
Two main rivers that are present in the area – the Orange River and the
Oliphants / Doring rivers are under pressure from agriculture and alien
vegetation encroachment.
The conservation of aquatic (river, wetland and estuary) resources can help
ensure that the region is able to withstand climate change, and sustain the
NDM’s people and globally unique biodiversity in the face of climate change.
However, water as a resource – especially in the riverine environment – can be
sufficiently managed while allowing for sustainable development of the area.
ESI RATING: D
6.3.8 Wetlands
Wetlands play an important role in accumulating sediment from rivers and
streams. This is important since it acts as a natural water purification system and
it also provide suitable habitat for an array of fauna and flora. Sediment overload
due to water pollution is a major threat as well as trampling of wetland vegetation
that leads to soil compaction and erosion.
Legislation with regards to wetlands and water bodies in terms of the National
Water Act is considered an appropriate enforcement means to protect wetlands
against unsustainable development.
ESI RATING: D
6.3.9 Slopes
South-facing slopes play an important role in biodiversity of the area. These
create unique habitats for invertebrates due to cooler habitats where species
under threat from changing climate colonise.
Furthermore slopes are at higher risk of exposure of soil that could lead to
erosion or settlement of invader plant species.
In terms of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, cultivation of slopes
that exceed 20% is prohibited. Several measures are available to reduce the
impact on slopes for cultivation purposes
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ESI RATING: D
6.3.10 Population Centres
Developed areas have already impacted on the environment and changed the
characteristic to such an extent that very little of the natural area is still visible in
most cases. It is therefore a fair assumption that environmental attributes that
are overlaid with population centres should be excluded from a higher
environmental sensitivity zoning.
Another factor to bear in mind where population centres are affected, is the
impact of humans and the possible consequences on socio-economic level.
Settlements in NDM are generally in the lower income groups and are therefore
more vulnerable to changes that could affect their well-being on a socio
economic level.
The exploitation of the natural environment in pursuit of achieving economic
growth and poverty alleviation, does not come without consequence- adversely
affecting land, water and soil quality and availability, pollution, desertification and
forest cover levels. Overexploitation not only results in environmental
degradation, but also worsens poverty conditions - counteracting the very goal
economic growth aims to achieve.
The rating of this attribute is therefore based on the town planning principle of
densification. Urban sprawl would lead to further degradation over a larger area
while densification will limit this.
ESI RATING: E
6.3.11 Cultural and Historical Features
Cultural and historical features are widely spread over NDM. These features
have a great deal of historical and cultural meaning for a number of ethnic
groups.
Most of the cultural and historical features are located in or near population
centres. It is important to protect these features from destruction of development
but is in most cases they are very small – less than one hectare – and are
difficult to consider geographically in this study area.
This feature will therefore be addressed in the SEMP.
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ESI RATING: E
6.3.12 Mines
Mining is an important sector in providing jobs and contributing to the Gross
Geographic Product (GGP) of an area. Typical environmental impacts
associated with the mining sector include the loss of biodiversity due to the
transformation of natural habitats and ecosystems. Mining processes usually
require large volumes of water and this creates a huge demand on available
water resources. Other impacts include air pollution, noise pollution and the
visual impact of large open-cast mining operations.
It is therefore evident that mining has already transformed large portions of the
district and contributed to environmental degradation. This can never be
considered as a positive but, in the absence of more sensitive environmental
attributes, the advantages of this activity outweigh the damage done.
This attribute should be treated with caution and by no means exempts potential
development from compliance with applicable legislation.
ESI RATING: F
6.4 Management of Environmental Management Zones
The resultant Environmental Management Zones are presented in the figure in
Appendix B. The figure colouring shows each of the zones. The management
criteria for each zone are specificed in the table below.
The table below provides guidance on the resilience of each Environmental
Management Zone to absorb various development types.
It should however be noted that this document does not authorise or prohibit
certain development types but merely serves as guideline as to which
development types will be suitable in each Environmental Management Zone.
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Table 47 Development Types Suitable for Each Environmental Management Zone
Environmental
Management
Zone
Conserv
ation
Agricu
lture
Serv
ice I
nfr
astr
uctu
re
Urb
an D
evelo
pm
ent
Lin
ear
Deve
lopm
ents
Energ
y G
enera
tio
n
Researc
h
Waste
re
late
d
Heavy Ind
ustr
y
Min
ing
Natu
ral R
eso
urc
e A
ctivitie
s
A Yes No Possible No No No Yes No No No Possible
B Yes No Possible No Possible No Yes Possible No No Possible
C Yes Possible Possible No Yes Possible Yes Possible No Possible Possible
D Yes Yes Yes Possible Yes Yes Yes Yes Possible Possible Yes
E Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Possible Possible Yes
F Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
G Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Conservation
Conservation activities in this sense refer to any activity that will promote
conservation. Conservation areas do not include tourism developments.
Agriculture
Agricultural activities refer to crop production and livestock production. This
is applicable to any vacant land, irrespective of existing land-use zoning.
Agricultural activities include commercial and subsistence farming larger
than 1 hectare.
Service Infrastructure
Service infrastructure includes any basic services that have not been
developed yet. This includes, water, electrical and sewer reticulation and
treatment works. If any existing services are to be expanded due
consideration should be taken of the receiving environment and the studies
required in terms of Section 6.5 of this report.
Urban Development
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Urban development includes the provision of housing, commercial and
industrial facilities, tourism facilities. Development of this nature is
encouraged in areas that have already been developed.
Linear Developments
Linear developments include any activity that will result in the registration of
servitudes. Linear developments cannot be prohibited in most areas due to
the needs of people living in the area. It is however discouraged in EMZs A
and B and alternatives to traversing these areas should be investigated.
Energy Generation
Large portions of land need to be cleared for energy generation projects.
These types of projects usually pose a higher threat to the immediate
surrounding environments due to the nature of the project. However, the
need for sustainable energy provision is acknowledged and it is
recommended that energy generation projects be limited to EMZ D – G
areas.
Research
Due to the unique quality of the NDM it is expected that large scale
research projects will be conducted in this area. Research is allowed in all
areas of the district but it is expected that the precautionary principle be
applied at all times and that the nature of research conducted in EMZ A – C
areas is not destructive in any way.
Waste Related
Waste activities include any activity related to solid, hazardous, liquid or
gaseous wastes. This includes waste water treatment facilities. These
activities are discouraged, especially in EMZ A – B areas, but should be
allowed if the environmental consequences of the project not going ahead
outweigh the impacts if the project is allowed.
Heavy Industry
Heavy industry includes any activity that is capital and / or manufacturing
input-intensive such as automobile, industrial machinery, steel or
petroleum. Although these industries usually contribute significantly to job
creation, cognisance of the social impacts should be considered when
established near settlements. This type of development will not be allowed
in EMZ A – B areas.
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Mining
Mining refers to any activity covered in the Minerals and Petroleum
Resources Act. Mining should be discouraged in EMZs A and B, but
projects with sufficient scale to make a large impact on the district
economic and social status quo should be considered as mitigation factors
when motiviating for a mine in EMZ B areas
6.5 Environmental Investigations
This Section provides a guideline in terms of the minimum environmental
investigations that should be conducted prior to any development in the various
environmental management zones. This section serves as guideline for initiating
environmental investigation but should not be considered complete. Best
practice and the precautionary principle should be applied at all times. This
section does not exempt any activity from applicable legislation.
Table 48 Environmental Investigations Suitable for Each Environmental Management Zone
Environmental
Management
Zone
Scre
en
ing
Enviro
nm
enta
l
Feasib
ility
Investig
ation
EIA
Basic
Assessm
ent
Activity S
pecific
EM
P
Specia
list
Investig
ation
Deta
iled P
ub
lic
Consultation
Conserv
ation P
lan
Lic
enses a
nd P
erm
its
Regio
na
l Im
pact
Consid
era
tion
EC
O
A Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
B Yes Yes Possible Possible Yes Yes Yes Possible Yes Yes Yes
C Yes No Possible Possible Yes Yes Possible Possible Yes No Possible
D Yes No Possible Possible Yes Possible Possible No Yes No Possible
E Yes No Possible Possible Yes Possible Possible No Yes No No
F Yes No Possible Possible Yes Possible Possible No Yes No No
G Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible Possible
Screening – refers to the process of determining the type and magnitude of
study that will be required. Screening should consider all legislation, processes,
policies and frameworks applicable to the study area.
Environmental Feasibility Investigations – in this context means a environmental
practicability evaluation of the proposal, with due consideration of legal
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requirements. This investigation should consider social, economic and natural
environmental features.
EIA or Basic Assessment – Refers to the processes as described in NEMA
Government Notice R385. It is recommended that for Environmental
Management Zone A, a full EIA is conducted, even when a Basic Assessment
Process is required due to the nature of the project. This is a precautionary
approach to ensure protection of EMZ A areas. In every other EMZ, the need for
a full EIA or a Basic Assessment will be determined by the nature of the project
in accordance with R386 and R387 of NEMA.
EMP – Environmental Management Plans are useful tools to ensure
environmental best practice and enforcement of conditions of approval. EMPs
should be developed, especially for the construction phase of developments, and
it is strongly recommended that due considerations of the operational phase be
taken into account and management principles be recommended where
applicable.
Specialist Investigations – Refers to any investigation that falls outside the
competency of the EAP conducting assessments for any envisaged activity.
Specialist investigations are not limited to the assessments listed below, but
merely serve as an indication of assessments that might be required:
Geotechnical Investigations;
Biodiversity assessments;
Geohydrological Assessments;
River Health Assessment;
Visual Impact Assessment;
Traffic Impact Assessment;
Agricultural Potential Assessment;
Social Impact Assessment;
Socio Economic Assessment;
Heritage Impact Assessment;
Air Quality Assessment; and
Noise Impact Assessment.
Public Consultation – refers to any interaction with stakeholders of Interested
and Affected parties. Public consultation should play a vital role in the
assessment of any envisaged development. It is recommended that as a
minimum, the process for public consultation is in line with the process described
in Chapter Six of NEMA. More detailed public participation is required in EMZs A
and B which should include interacting with the dominant environmental NGOs
and the Ratepayers Associations, or similar organisations, where these entities
exist.
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Conservation Plan – refers to any planned action to salvage, protect and
successfully relocate conservation-worthy items in development areas. This plan
should be compiled with input from various specialists related to the field in
question. This item is listed only as a requirement for EMZ A sites. It should
however be applied to any area that hosts threatened or endangered items.
Licences and Permits – refers to any permit or licence required in terms of South
African legislation. The list provided below is not exhaustive but serves as
indication of licences and permits that might be required: Water Use Licence,
Water Use Authorisation, permit for demolishing old buildings, registration of
waste sites, prospecting rights or mining permits.
Regional Impact Considerations – describes a process to be included in the
environmental assessment that takes the broader environment into
consideration. This implies that the EIA should not only focus on the immediate
area to be affected but should also reflect on the impacts that might be suffered
by the regional environment.
ECO – Environmental Control Officers are appointed to ensure the application of
environmental conditions of approval. ECO’s are required to submit reports to
the Northern Cape Department of Environment, Agriculture and Nature
Conservation at a frequency that has been determined prior to occupation of
site. It is suggested that the frequency of ECO’s on sites with an ESI rating of A
– B be higher that other Environmental Management Zones e.g. bi-monthly.
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CHAPTER 7. MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT
7.1 Monitoring
For both the relevant authorities and the general public to determine whether or
not an SEMP/EMF has been successfully implemented, measures should be
taken to regularly evaluate, assess and report on the actions that were taken to
comply with the SEMP/EMF and the results that were achieved. Indicators can
be used to evaluate the environmental impacts identified throughout the
SEMP/EMF. These indicators, which are described in greater detail in the next
section, should be measured annually and a report on the results should be
presented to the council on an annual basis. To determine whether or not there
has been an improvement in the environment the change in the indicator results
after time could be plotted.
Examples of some of the forms these measures can take are:
Regular meetings with representatives of organizations or stakeholders
affected by development planning.
Monthly reports on the nature and type of development applications that
are received by the district municipality, for example Environmental
Impact Assessments or Basic Assessment Reports.
Monthly reporting on the various environmental attributes in the area, for
example the water quality of the local streams, the air quality, loss of
agricultural land etc.
Suggestions of practical monitoring processes, to ensure that the
recommendations of the SEMP/EMF are met, have been identified and
explained in the SEMP section of the report.
The EMF must be implemented and mainstreamed parallel with the Namakwa
Biodiversity Sector Plan. Although the Biodiversity Sector Plan informed the EMF
on the Biodiversity Important Aspects, it must be consulted with any
development projects that might impact on the environment.
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CHAPTER 8. REFERENCES
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and Water. Technical Paper of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
IPCC Secretariat, Geneva. 210p.
Baydack, R.K., Campa III, H. and Haufler, J.B. (1999). Practical Approaches to
the Conservation of Biological Diversity. Island Press, USA.
Bledzki, A.L. 2008. Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Wetlands and Water:
Wetlands and Water: Ecosystems and Human Well-being.
CEPF. (2008). Assessing Five Years of CEPF Investment in the Succulent
Karoo Biodiversity Hotspot. Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, Conservation
International, USA.
Colvin, G. Tredoux, S. Clarke, D. Le Maitre, p. Engelbrecht, A. Maherry T. (2008)
Integration Goes Underground: A Review of Groundwater Research in Support
of Sustainable Development in South Africa. CSIR: Pretoria.
Community Survey, 2007. Basic Results: Municipalities. Statistical release
P0301.1. Statistics South Africa.
Council of Geosciences; 2010. Simplified Geology of the Northern Cape.
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1&Itemid=311.
Cousins, B; Hoffman, M; Allsopp, Rohded, N. (2007). A synthesis of sociological
and biological perspectives on sustainable land use in Namakwaland. In the
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CSIR Environmentek, 2004. Northern Cape State of the Environment Report
Overview.
DALREC. (2003). Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, Environment and
Conservation: Northern Cape Environmental Implementation Plan (EIP).
DEAT (2004) Environmental Management Plans, Integrated Environmental
Management, Information Series 12, Department of Environmental Affairs and
Tourism (DEAT), Pretoria.
DEAT (2005): State of the Environment. www.deat.gov.za
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De Villiers CC, Brownlie S, Clark B, Day EG, Driver A, Euston-Brown DIW,
Helme NA, Holmes PM, Job N, Rebelo AB (2005) Fynbos Forum Ecosystem
Guidelines for Environmental Assessment in the Western Cape. Fynbos Forum
and Botanical Society of South Africa, Kirstenbosch.
(http://bgis.sanbi.org/wces/FF_Ecosystem_Guidelines.pdf)
DTI. (2008). Department of Trade and Industry: Project Khuli’s Umnotho: NDM
Profile.
DWAF (2002): Olifants/Doring Water Management Area: Water Resources
Situation Assessment. Ninham Shand in association with Jakoet and Associates,
Volume 1 and 2, Report No. P17000/00/0101.
DWAF 2004. Internal Strategic Perspective: Lower Orange Water Management
Area. Prepared by PDNA, WRP Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd, WMB and
Kwezi-V3 on behalf of the Directorate: National Water Resource Planning.
DWAF Report No P WMA 14/000/00/0304
DWAF 2005. Olifants/Doorn Water Management Area Internal Strategic
Perspective. DWAF: Pretoria
DWAF, 2008. Groundwater Resources in the Northern Cape Province. DWAF:
Pretoria
DTI: 2008. Project Kulis’ Umnotho, NDM Profile,
Enviro-Fish Africa (Pty) Ltd, Northern Cape Province Coastal Management Plan,
2005
EWT. (2010). Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) Riverine Rabbit Working Group
Overview.
http://www.ewt.org.za/workgroups_overview.aspx?group=rabbit&page=overview.
Accessed on 15 November 2009.
Hewitson, B. (2007): High Resolution Regional Climate Change Scenarios for
Sub-Saharan Africa. In: Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation in
Developing Country Regions. (pp:56-59.) Eds. Leary, N. & Kulkarni, J. AIACC.
Washington, DC.
Huld T., Šúri M., Dunlop E., Albuisson M, Wald L (2005). Integration of
HelioClim-1 database into PVGIS to estimate solar electricity potential in Africa.
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Exhibition, 6-10 June 2005, Barcelona, Spain, http://re.jrc.ec.europa.eu/pvgis/.
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Integrated Development Plan, Hantam Municipality, 2008/2009
Integrated Development Plan, Kamiesberg Municipality, 2006-2011
Integrated Development Plan, Karoo Hoogland Municipality, 2008/2009
Integrated Development Plan, Khai Ma Municipality, 2008/2009
Integrated Development Plan Review, Richtersveld Municipality, 2008
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Plan for NDM
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Guidelines for the NDM
Linzer L.M., Bejaichund M., Cichowicz A., Durrheim, R.J., Goldbach O.D.,
Kataka M.O., Kijko A., Milev A.M., Saunders I., Spottiswoode S.M., Webb S.J.
2007. Recent research in seismology in South Africa, South African Journal of
Science, Vol.103 No.9 – 10, Pretoria: Sept./Oct.
Lochner, P. 2005. Guideline for Environmental Management Plans. CSIR Report
No ENV-S-C 2005-053 H. Republic of South Africa, Provincial Government of
the Western Cape, Department of Environmental Affairs & Development
Planning, Cape Town.
Marsh A., Dr. Desmet P. & Oosthuysen E. 2008. NDM Biodiversity Sector Plan
Draft.
Mucina L. and Rutherford M.C. 2006: The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho
and Swaziland. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Pretoria.
Mukheibir, P. (2007): Qualitative Assessment of Municipal Water Resource
Management Strategies under Climate Impacts: The Case of the Northern Cape,
South Africa. Water SA, 33 (11 pages).
NDM Growth and Development Strategy, 2008
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2006
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http://www.northerncape.org.za/general_information. Downloaded 17 August
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Oosthuizen, L.K. Land and water resources management in South Africa.
University of Free State. Bloemfontein.
Reason, C.J.C.; Enelbrecht, F.; Landman, W.A.; Lutjeharms, J.R.E.; Piketh, S.;
Rautenbach, C.J. de W. & Hewitson, B.C. (2006): A Review of South African
Research in Atmospheric Science and Physical Oceanography During 2000-
2005. S.A.Jnl. of Sci. 102:35-45.
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Vol 17 No 2 - June 2006.
SKEP. (2003). SKEP 20 Year Strategy: Biodiversity Conservation and
Sustainable Land-Use in the Succulent Karoo.
South African Rain Atlas, http://134.76.173.220/rainfall/index.html, accessed 22
October 2009
Stabilis Development. (2009). NDM Economic Profile.
Statistics South Africa, Community Survey 2007
Statistics South Africa, Census 2001
Todd, S., Milton, S., Dean, R., Carrick, P. & Meyer, A. (2009). Ecological Best-
Practice Livestock Production Guidelines for the NDM.
Turpie, J. & Joubert, A. 2004. The value of flower tourism on the Bokkeveld
Plateau – a botanical hotspot. Development Southern Africa, 1470-3637, Volume
21, Issue 4, Pages 645 – 662
Wu Xiao-ping, Chen Xiu-fang, Ma Chao-qun, Yang Xiao-yu, Ran Mao-ping &
Meng Xiang-ding. 2007. Comprehensive assessment method for environmental
impact of railway based on geographic information system. Journal of Central
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Additional Sources:
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Correspondence with District Manager, Namakwa, November 2009
Correspondence with Annelise Le Roux – local vegetation specialist, November
2009
Correspondence with the Namakwaland Development Agency, October 2009
Correspondence with NDM, October 2009
Correspondence with Richtersveld Local Municipality, October 2009
Correspondence with Khai Ma Local Municipality, October 2009
Correspondence with Kamiesberg Local Municipality, October 2009
Correspondence with Hantam Local Municipality, October 2009
Correspondence with Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality, October 2009
Correspondence with the Department of Education, NDM, September 2009
Correspondence with the Department of Sports and Recreation, NDM,
September 2009
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Appendix A. THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
INTRODUCTION Background
Public participation is an integral requirement of the National Environmental Management Act
(Act 107 of 1998). The process followed for this project has taken into account all aspects of
public participation as stipulated in the legislation.
THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
Process and Purpose
Public Participation provides the opportunity for all Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) to
participate on an informed basis. The primary purpose of public participation is to ensure that the
relevant stakeholders and all I&APs within the EMF jurisdiction are informed about the EMF
process, provide comments and input and identify relevant issues that need to be addressed in
relation to the findings during the project phase.
Purpose of the Project
The purpose of the Public Participation Report is to:
Provide a comprehensive list of stakeholders and I&APs;
Provide a list of people who attended the PSC meetings and workshops;
Provide a list of meetings with stakeholders; and
Provide a report on comments, concerns and issues raised during the process.
INCEPTION PHASE
An Inception Meeting was held on 23 June 2009.
A Project Steering Committee Meeting was held on 29 July 2009 with all PSC members.
Newspaper Adverts
Newspapers that were used to advertise the EMF and the Public Open Days were:
Die Eland, Alexander Baai on 25 September 2009;
Diamond Field Advertiser, Springbok on 17 September 2009;
Die Noordwester, Calvinia on 17 September 2009;
Die Burger, national distribution on 17 September 2009; and
The Gemsbok, Upington on 23 September 2009.
Public Open Days
The Status Quo analysis for the project was presented at the Public Open Days. The Public
Open Days were held as follows:
6 October 2009 at the Alexander Bay City Hall;
7 October 2009 at the Namakwa High School, Springbok; and
8 October 2009 at the Calvinia Community Hall.
CREATING AWARENESS
The aim of this phase was to inform the I&APs and PSC Members of the project and how it
would benefit the environment. A Background Information Document and a Comment and Reply
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Form were prepared in order to inform participants of the EMF and were distributed to
stakeholders, district and local municipal officials, interest groups and I&APs.
DISSEMINATING INFORMATION Meeting with PSC Members
PSC MEETING 29 JULY 2009
A meeting was held at Springbok on 29 July 2009. The following main points were discussed:
The EMF will be carried out in accordance with accepted practises as no official guideline on the
developments of EMFs is currently available.
The proposed sections of the Status Quo section of the process will incorporate the following:
Status Quo;
GIS Mapping; and
Public Participation.
The final EMF will include the following:
Opportunities and Constraints Report;
Action Plans;
Development of Sustainability Parameters;
Strategic Environmental Management Plan;
Evaluation and Monitoring Plan; and
Public Participation.
THE MEETING WAS ATTENDED BY:
DENC: Kimberley Deputy Director: Impact Management Mr. Sibonelo Mbanjwa
DENC: Kimberley Assistant Director: Impact Management Mrs. Basani Ndindani
DENC: Kimberley EO: Impact Management Mrs. Lucille Flagg
DENC: Kimberley AD: Integrated Environmental Management Mrs. Elise Lameyer
DENC: Kimberley Principal EO: Waste Management Mr. Bronwen Cornelissen
DENC: Springbok Assistant Director: Coastal Resources Uses Ms. W. Oppel
NDM Acting Municipal Manager Mr. Jannie Laubser
NDM The LED Manager Mr. I. Groenewald
DENC: Springbok Conservation Planner Mr. E. Oosthuysen
DWA: Upington The Regional Manager Mr. Henry Abbott
DME: Springbok The Regional Manager Mr. Jasper Nieuwoudt
DPLG The Regional Manager Mr. A. Holland
DEAT: Springbok ASD: Local Government Support Mrs. N. Le Breton
Department of Agriculture The Regional Manager Mr. S. Van Der Poll
Nemai Consulting Project Manager Mr. Ciaran Chidley
The people listed below attended the meeting as representatives or alternates of the
departments where they are employed.
DENC: Springbok Intern Ms. Z. Nero
Namakwa District Municipality Head: Community Services Mr. William Auret
DENC: Upington EO: IEM Mr Adriaan le Roux
DENC: Upington PEO: EIM Ms Anga Yaphi
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DENC: Springbok AD: Coastal Resources Uses Mr. Solly Vukeya
PSC MEETING 27 JANUARY 2011
A meeting was held at Kimberley 27 January 2011. The following main points were discussed:
The purpose of the PSC was to review the EMF and give an opportunity for DEA to make further
comments on the contents and way forward.
The purpose of the Project Meeting was to review the EMF and give an opportunity for DEA to
make further comments on the contents and way forward.
The EMF was presented to the PSC. Key points included:
Methodology – including a discussion regarding guidance over PSC meeting
postponements;
Status Quo Section;
SEMP – including the costal recommendations; and
EMF – including the GIS mapping and the rationale ehind the Environmental
Management Zones.
The following actions should be taken with regards finalisation of the project:
Include an Executive Summary for the Report;
Adjust the land-uses for the Environmental Management Zones to no prohibit
development in any zones. Ensure that sufficient controls exist in each zone
to protect environmental resources;
Add the final details to the Public Participation section of the report;
Prepare a poster and gloosy summary of the report;
Hand over the GIS layers to DENC for their further use; and
The EMF should be gazetted for public comment by DENC.
THE MEETING WAS ATTENDED BY:
DENC: Kimberley Deputy Director: Impact Management Mr. Sibonelo Mbanjwa
DENC: Kimberley EO: Impact Management Mrs. Lucille Flagg
DENC: Springbok Conservation Planner Mr. E. Oosthuysen
DEA: Pretoria DD: Decision Support Tools Mr Khanyiso Mtolo
Nemai Consulting Project Manager Mr. Ciaran Chidley
PROJECT PROGRESS MEETINGS
Project progress meetings were held to document progress with the project and to presen the
SEMP and EMF to officials in an effort to stimulate interest and debate in the project.
The meetings always started with a presentation of the document, followed by a question and
answer session where areas of uncertainty and aspects that should be addressed were
docussed.
These meetings were held in Kimberley.
Project Progress Meeetings were held on
4 December 2009;
3 March 2010;
3 August 2010
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IAP DATABASE OF IAPs FOR THE NAMAKWA EMF:
IAP Category Name Organisation Position Telephone Fax E-Mail
Local
Government Mr. H. Visser Namakwa District Municipality Executive Mayor 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 roynnyc@namakwa-dm.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. J. Loubser Namakwa District Municipality Acting Municipal Manager 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 janniel@namakwa-dm.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. I. Groenewald Namakwa District Municipality LED Manager 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 ivang@namakwa-dm.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. H. Thron Namakwa District Municipality Environmental Official 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 hertzogt@namakwa-dm.go.za
Local
Government Mr. M. Claasen Namakwa District Municipality Ward Councillor
Local
Government Mr. F. Van der Heever Nama Khoi Local Municipality Mayor (ward councillor contact point) 027 718 8100 027 7121635 hfielding@namakhoi.org.za
Local
Government Mr. J.W. Nortje Nama Khoi Local Municipality Acting Municipal Manager 027 718 8100 027 7121635 johannortje@namakho.org.za
Local
Government Mr. R. Hartley Nama Khoi Local Municipality LED Manager 027 718 8100 027 7121635 rhartley@namakhoi.org.za
Local
Government Ms. Ntombi Feni Nama Khoi Local Municipality Environmental Official 027 718 8100 027 7121635 ntombi@namakhoi.org.za
Local
Government Mr. L. Ambrosini Richtersveld Local Municipality Mayor 027 851 1111 027 851 1101 suretha@richtersveld.gov.za
Local
Government M. J.G. Cloete Richtersveld Local Municipality Municipal Manager 027 851 1111 027 851 1101 suretha@richtersveld.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. A. de Wet Richtersveld Local Municipality LED Manager 027 851 1111 027 851 1101 abraham@richtersveld.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. Siabonga Richtersveld Local Municipality Environmental Official 027 851 1111 027 851 1101
Local
Government Mr. Singh Richtersveld Local Municipality Ward Councillor 027 851 1101
Local
Government Mr. M. Klaase Kamiesberg Local Municipality Acting Mayor 027 652 8000 0866 968996 veronica@kamiesberg.co.za
Local
Government Mr. G. Maarman Kamiesberg Local Municipality Municipal Manager 027 652 8000 027 652 8001 gertm@kamiesberg.co.za
Local
Government Position is still vacant Kamiesberg Local Municipality LED Manager 027 652 8000
Local
Government Ms. Sarah Cloete Kamiesberg Local Municipality Environmental Official 027 652 8000 027 652 8001
Local
Government Mr. M. Klaase Kamiesberg Local Municipality Ward Councillor 027 652 8000 0866 968996 veronica@kamiesberg.co.za
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IAP Category Name Organisation Position Telephone Fax E-Mail
Local
Government
Mrs. L. Bruinthies-
Groenewald Khai-Ma Local Municipality Mayor (ward councillor contact point) 054 933 0066 054 933 0252 mayor@khaima.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. P.J. Baker Khai-Ma Local Municipality Acting Municipal Manager 054 933 0066 boet@khaima.gov.za
Local
Government Position is still vacant Khai-Ma Local Municipality LED Manager 054 933 0066 054 933 0252
Local
Government Mr. Roderikus Loster Khai-Ma Local Municipality Environmental Official rodrigol@namakwa-dm.gov.za
Local
Government Ms. M. Dyers Hantam Local Municipality Mayor 027 341 8500 027 341 8501 mayor@hantam.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. I. Valentein Hantam Local Municipality Acting Municipal Manager 027 341 8500 027 341 8501 finance@hantam.gov.za
Local
Government R. N. Viljoen Hantam Local Municipality LED Manager 027 341 8500 027 341 8501 idp@hantam.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. R. van Wyk Hantam Local Municipality Environmental Official 027 341 8500 027 341 85 socialdev1@hantam.gov.za
Local
Government Mr. Koose Hantam Local Municipality Ward Councillor
Local
Government Ms. J. K. Malho Karoo-Hoogland Local Municipality Mayor 053 391 3003 053 391 3294
Local
Government Mr. V. Opperman Karoo-Hoogland Local Municipality LED Manager 053 391 3003 053 391 3294 frasermuseum@telkomsa.net
Local
Government Mr. Alister Givons Karoo-Hoogland Local Municipality Environmental Official 023 5711 265 hoogladtourism@telkomsa.net
Local
Government Ms. J. K. Malho Karoo-Hoogland Local Municipality Mayor 053 391 3003 053 391 3294
Environmental
NGO Suzaan Erasmus WESSA Northern Cape 053 839 2717 053 842 1433
Environmental
NGO Sharon Bosma WESSA Western Cape 021 7011397 021 701 1390
Environmental
NGO Jurg Wagener Observatory 023 5711 405
Environmental
NGO Brian Northern Cape Rural Development Association 053 873 3183 053 833 4347
Environmental
NGO Coetzee Owen Northern Cape Tourism Authority 053 832 2657 053 831 2937
Environmental
NGO Anton Earle African Centre for Water Research 021 424 4738 021 422 3810
Environmental Dave Mcdonald Botanical Society of South Africa 021 650 2866 021 650 3791
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IAP Category Name Organisation Position Telephone Fax E-Mail
NGO
Environmental
NGO Ronnie Newmen Namakwa Conservation
Environmental
NGO Richard Fuggle Environmental Evaluation Group 021 650 3791 021 650 2866
Environmental
NGO Noel Oettle Environmental Monotoring Group 021 448 2881
Environmental
NGO Keith Harrison Birdlile SA 022 713 3026
Environmental
NGO Elanza van Lengte Namakwa Parks Park Manager 027 672 1948 027 672 1010
Environmental
NGO Harr May Surplus People Project 021 448 4605 harry@spp.org.za
Client
Officials/PSC Sibonelo Mbanjwa DTEC: Kimberley Deputy Director: Impact Management 053 807 7470 053 832 1035 smbanjwa@half.ncape.gov.za
Client
Officials/PSC Basani Ndindani DTEC: Kimberley Assistant Director: Impact Management 053 807 7300 053 831 3530 bndindani@half.ncape.gov.za
Client
Officials/PSC Lucille Flagg DTEC: Springbok EO: Impact Management 027 718 8800 lkarsten@sptour.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials Dineo Moleko DTEC:Kimberley 053 807 7430 dmoleko@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials Thato Molefe DTEC: De Aar 053 361 0616 tmolefe@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials Nditsheni DTEC: Kimberley 053 807 7430 nramuhulu@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials Lerato Sebuseng DTEC :Kimberley 053 807 7430 lsebuseng@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials J.J. Mutyorauta DTEC: Kimberley 053 807 7430 jmutyorauta@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials L. Pienaar DTEC:Kimberley 053 807 7462 lpienaar@half.ncape.gov.za
Client Officials T. Nakayoni DTEC: Kimberley 053 807 7430 tnakayoni@half.ncape.gov.za
Client
Officials/PSC Ciaran Chidley Nemai Consulting 011 781 1730 ciaranc@nemai.co.za
PSC Members Mrs. Elise Lameyer DTEC: Kimberley Assistant Director: Integrated Environmental
Management 053 80 77374 053 832 1035 elameyer@half.ncape.gov.za
PSC Members Mr. B. Cornelisson DTEC: Springbok Principal EO: Waste Management 027 718 8800 086 547 9698 bronwen.dtec@gmail.com
PSC Members Ms. W. Oppel Department of Environmental Affairs & Conservation Asistant Director: Coastal Resources Uses 027 718 8000 027 718 8814 woppel.dtec@gmail.com
PSC Members Mr. Jannie Laubsher Namakwa District Municipality Municipal Manager 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 janniel@namakwa-dm.gov.za
PSC Members Mr. I. Groenewald Namakwa District Municipality LED Manager 027 712 8000 027 712 8040 ivang@namakwa-dm.gov.za
PSC Members Mr. E. Oosthuysen Department of Environmental Affairs & Conservation Conservation Planner 027 718 8800 086 646 4623 eoosthuysen@isat.co.za
PSC Members Mr. Henry Abbott Department of Water Affairs and Forestry Regional Manager 054 338 5800 054 334 0205 abbotth@dwaf.gov.za
PSC Members Mr. J. Niewoudt Department of Minerals and Energy Regional Manager 027 712 8163 027 712 1959 jasper.niewoudt@dme.gov.za
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IAP Category Name Organisation Position Telephone Fax E-Mail
PSC Members Mr. A. Holland Department of Local Government and Housing Regional Manager 027 712 2090 027 712 2033 mjoseph@sp.ncape.gov.za
PSC Members Mrs. N. Le Brenton Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism Regional Manager 027 718 2957 027 718 1871 nlebrenton@deat.gov.za
PSC Members Sarah Frazee Consevation International Manager 021 799 8655 021 762 6838 sfrazee@conservation.org
PSC Members Mr. S. van der Poll Department of Agriculture Regional Manager 027 712 1315 027 712 2270 avdpoll@agti.ncape.gov.za
Information
Sources Johan Van Schalkwyk DTEC: Kimberley
Information
Sources Willem Auret Namakwa DM 027 712 8000
Information
Sources Bryan Fischer DTEC: Kimberley
Information
Sources Mathieu Rouget SANBI GIS Specialist 012 843 5232 012 843 5205 rouget@sanbi.org
Information
Sources MC Gregor Museum MC Gregor Museum Kimberley 053 839 2700
Information
Sources Leana Smith Richtersveld National Park Manager
Information
Sources Surprise Zwane Department of Environmental Affairs & Conservation Principal Environmental Officer 012 310 3145 012 310 3688 Szwane@deat.gov.za
Simone Bugan O27 718 8800 O27 7188 814 Sbugan.dtec@gmail.com
Piet Alexander O27 341 8500
Katrina Galant O27 341 8500
Jacobus O27 341 8500
Zurleka Nero O27 718 8800 O27 718 8814
Deidre William O27 712 8163 O27 712 8163 deidre.william.dme.gov.za
Abraham Joseph O27 341 8500
Jasmine Appols O27 341 8500
Amanda Coetzee O27 341 8500
Solly Vuyeka O27 718 8800 O27 718 8814 svukeya@yahoo.com
Elanza Van-lengte O27 672 1948 O27 672 1015 elanzavl@sanparks.org
Bernard Van-lengte O27 672 1948 O27 672 1015 bernardv@sanparks.org
Eddie Julius O27 712 8000 O86 602 6100 Ejulius4@gmail.com
Arther Jansen O27 851 1101 port@lantic.net
Nick De-geode O27 831 1506 O27 831 1175 nicholasd@sanparks.org
Pieter Scholtz
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IAP Category Name Organisation Position Telephone Fax E-Mail
G.P.Huysamen O27 831 1765
S. Ntuli O27 831 1101
E. Hausiku O71 926 7734
Z. Nero O27 718 8800 O27 718 8814
Ziekas Blom O27 831 1457 ziekasb@alexkor.co.za
W.J. Mureen O27 831 1279
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SUMMARY OF PROJECT MEETINGS
04 DECEMBER 2009
Attendance
No Company/
Organisation Position Name and Surname Email Address Telephone Fax
1 DTEC:
Kimberley
Director: Impact
Management JJ Mutyorauta
jmutyorauta@half.ncape.gov.z
a 053 807 7430
2 DACE:
Kimberley
Deputy Director:
Impact Management Mr Sibonelo Mbanjwa smbanjwa@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7470 053 832 1035
3 DACE:
Kimberley
Assistant Director:
Impact Management Mrs Basani Ndindani bndindani@half.ncape.gov.za
053 807 7430
082 335 7385 053-831 3530
4 DACE:
Kimberley
Assistant Director:
Integrated
Environmental
Management
Mrs Elise Lameyer elameyer@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 832 1035
5 Nemai
Consulting Director Mrs Nicky Naidoo nickyn@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
6 Nemai
Consulting Project Manager Mr Ciaran Chidley ciaranc@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
7 DENC Conservation
Planner Enrico Oosthuysen eoosthuysen@isat.co.za 027 718 8800
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No Company/
Organisation Position Name and Surname Email Address Telephone Fax
8 DENC PEO Dineo Maseko dmaseko@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
9 DENC AD Elise Lameyer elameyer@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7374 053 831 3530
10 DENC PEO Lerato Mokhoantle lmokoantle@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
11 DENC AD Bryan Fisher bfisher@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7300
12 DENC
CS Vhalinavho
Khavhagali
vkhavhagali@half.ncape.gov.z
a 053 807 7430
13 DENC AS Peter Ramollo Ramollopp@gmail.com 053 807 7442
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03 MARCH 2010
Attendances
No Company/
Organisation Position Name and Surname Email Address Telephone Fax
1 DTEC:
Kimberley
Director: Impact
Management JJ Mutyorauta
jmutyorauta@half.ncape.gov.z
a 053 807 7430
2 DACE:
Kimberley
Deputy Director:
Impact Management Mr Sibonelo Mbanjwa smbanjwa@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7470 053 832 1035
3 DACE:
Kimberley
Assistant Director:
Impact Management Mrs Basani Ndindani bndindani@half.ncape.gov.za
053 807 7430
082 335 7385 053-831 3530
4 DACE:
Kimberley
Assistant Director:
Integrated
Environmental
Management
Mrs Elise Lameyer elameyer@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 832 1035
5 Nemai
Consulting Director Mrs Nicky Naidoo nickyn@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
6 Nemai
Consulting Project Manager Mr Ciaran Chidley ciaranc@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
7 Nemai
Consulting GIS Specialist Ms Elani Brits ciaranc@nemai.co.za 014 592 3448 014 592 3426
8 DENC Conservation Vhalinavho vkhavhagali@half.ncape.gov.z 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
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No Company/
Organisation Position Name and Surname Email Address Telephone Fax
Scientist Khavhagali a
9 DENC Environmental
Officer Ramuhulu Nnditsheni nramuhulu@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
10 DENC Environmental
Officer Tshegofatso Lekutle tlekutle@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
11 DENC Ecologist Christine Pienaar Christine.dtec@gmail.com 053 807 7441 053 831 3530
12 DENC AD.RDS Elsabe Swart Elsabe.dtec@gmail.com 053 807 7430 053 831 3530
13
DENC
Environmental
Officer Dineo Kgosi dkgosi@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7456
053 831 3530
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03 AUGUST 2010
Attendance
No Company/
Organisation Position Name & Surname Email Address Telephone Fax
1 DENC Director: Impact
Management JJ Mutyorauta jmutyorauta@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430
2 DENC Deputy Director: Impact
Management Mr Sibonelo Mbanjwa smbanjwa@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7470 053 832 1035
3 DENC Assistant Director: Impact
Management Mrs Basani Ndindani bndindani@half.ncape.gov.za
053 807 7430
082 335 7385 053-831 3530
4 DENC
Assistant Director:
Integrated Environmental
Management
Mrs Elise Lameyer elameyer@half.ncape.gov.za 053 807 7430 053 832 1035
5 Nemai
Consulting Regional Manager Mr D Henning donavanh@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
6 Nemai
Consulting Senior Consultant Mr R Phamphe ronaldp@nemai.co.za 011 781 1730 011 781 1731
7 DENC Admin Clerk Ms L. Pienaar Lpienaar.denc@gmail.com 053 807 7462 053 831 3530
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Annexure A. Comments and Response Report
The comments below represent the correspondence received from I&APs and key Stakeholders.
No. Name Organisation Comments Response
1. Mr. S. Zwane
Department of
Environmental
Affairs (Pretoria)
Definition of terms and abbreviations
must be included before the actual
content of the report.
Second last sentence. It is Section 24
(3) of NEMA, as amended which
provides the legal standing for EMF
initiation, development and adoption.
Paragraph 2. How much time was
allocated for public comments and
what method was used to provide
feedback?
Figure 1: The rainfall regions of South
Abbreviations are included in the final
document.
Amended
The timeframe for comments was 30
days as per the BID and newspapers
adverts. The Comment and Reply Form
attached to the BID as well as the
newspaper adverts that provided the
consultant’s contact details were the
methods used for feedback. The method
used was one-on-one with targeted
groups.
Map is referenced in the final document.
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
Africa. Referencing required. How
recent is the data and is it verified with
WeatherSA?
To be consistent and to be in line with
the EMF process as regulated, it is
best that reference be made to the
status quo rather than redefining it to
state of the environment, as this may
create confusion. Referencing is also
required in this section. Please affect
this in the report.
Section 5.4.1.3: The management
objectives must also refer to existing
guidelines and strategies available.
The management objectives are
generic as they do not respond to ‘how
to’, which must clearly provide and
assign the management objectives, as
well as roles and responsibilities by all
organs of state.
Table 46. The colour coding on ‘Very
High’ and ‘Medium’ is almost similar
and can create confusion when
interpreted on a map. Kindly replace
Final document is referenced.
The management objectives include
targets, roles and responsibilities
Colour coding has been changed
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
the yellow with another different colour.
Section 6.2.1. What criteria was used
to determine the sensitivity zones and
how was this used to determine (in this
case classify) and define the different
management zones. Clearly indicate
the criteria used. Please attach map
that indicates the different
management zones. Table 47 makes
no sense without the spatial
representation on a map.
Section 7.1: Monitoring and
enforcement measures must be clearly
defined. The indicators must be
measurable on a set of parameters and
targets that are achievable. The
indicators provided in the SEMP
section that must be monitored are not
clear as to how it can be measured,
which makes them less practical to
implement this part. What mechanism
or actions may be suggested for which
implementation can be monitored on
clear targets that are achievable.
The criteria used to determine the
sensitivity zones is described in detail in
Section 6.2.1 and the Map is indicated in
Appendix B.
The Targets and Roles and
Responsibilities are included Section 5.4.
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
The maps provided do not clearly show
the alignment and conflicts between
SDF and the EMF. This must be well
reflected in the report and mapped
accordingly. Furthermore, what efforts
were made to align the spatial
information in the draft EMF report with
the local municipalities SDFs?
Maps are virtually illegible. Is it
possible to provide A3 size maps for
easy interpretation? Map and diagram
referencing must be included for each
of the maps used in the report,
particularly the ones not been
generated by the project team.
Sources of information must be clearly
indicated. Proper numbering of the
sub-topics is very crucial. (This applies
to the entire report)
The desired state section in the report
does not give a sense of the outcomes
taken from the status quo report and
public input does not seem to have
been incorporated in the desired state
At present, there are no SDFs available
from the NDM or the local municipalities.
Gerda Bezuidenhoudt from the
Namakwa District Municipality indicated
that consultancies have been appointed
to undertake SDFs.
Maps were enlarged and referenced in
the final document.
All the public inputs and comments are
incorporated into the final report.
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
reports. The desired state report needs
to reflect the situation on the ground as
well as the perspective of the local
people must be taken into
consideration. Management of the
natural resource base must be
reflected as a priority in this area and
ensure that other land uses and/ or
current use of land happens in a
responsible manner.
The desired state should reflect the
desired state as perceived by various
stakeholders and should highlight
opportunities and constraints between
various expectations, especially in
respect to the use of limited resources
and planning around those. The
management of those opportunities
and constraints should be the focus of
the SEMP which could for example:
-Set rules of the game based on the
identified principles and legal
obligations by organs of state in the
The Targets and Roles and
Responsibilities are included Section 5.4.
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
district;
-Set guidelines for the allocation of
resources;
-Set guidelines to ensure that strategic
potential to make decisions is not lost;
-Allocate responsibility to specific
authorities and organisations.
The human environment is not reflected
in the SEMP. How will the principles for
allowing growth in the area be
determined if the human environment
has not been assessed and integrated in
the overall strategic objectives of the
district. An EMF is a decision support
tool, to facilitate the conservation of
important natural resources, whilst at the
same time creating an enabling
environment the conservation of
important natural resources, whilst at the
same time creating an enabling
environment for the rapid delivery of the
municipal services in the areas of little or
no natural resource value and aimed at
describing the environmental attributes of
The human environment is discussed in
details under Social Environment section
and incorporated an analysis of the
population trends between the 2001,
2006 Censuses and the 2007
Community Survey.
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
an area, assessing the attributes in terms
of relative sensitivity to development and
guiding environmental decision-making
and sustainable development planning.
The framework must assess issues of
importance including the biophysical
(climate, landscape character, ecology,
hydrology, agricultural potential and the
build environment) as well as the human
environment.
Delineation of environmental
management zones must also include
features and/ or attributes of similarity,
opportunities and constraints thereof and
the inputs of all stakeholders. The reason
for this is that the areas have distinct
environmental features and it was also
clear that each area has very specific
opportunities and constraints as well as
expectations of stakeholders. Each of
these areas also requires a different set
of management interventions from
authorities.
The method used in ground truthing (if
Section 5.4 deals with the Constrains
and Opportunities, together with the
Targets and Roles and Responsibilities.
The delineation of environmental
management is based on environmental
features.
Appendix A detailed the Public
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
any was done), where ground truthing
was done and/ or where none was done,
it must be indicated in the report.
Participation. The ground truthing
includes detailed site visits, local
knowledge, interaction with local people
and aerial photographs.
2. Mr. Enrico Oosthuysen
Department of
Environment and
Nature
Conservation
(Northern Cape)
Pg 6 – replace NC DENC with DENC
(Department of Environment and Nature
Conservation)
Pg6 – Write out Namakwa District
Municipality and there after refer to NDM
Pg9 – replace Goods and Services with
Ecosystem Services
Pg17 – replace conservation agencies
with DENC
Pg31 – spelling error under 4.1.4 (coast
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
not cost)
Pg38 – include in list of protected areas
Goegap Nature Reserve, Nababiep
Nature Reserve and Oorlogskloof Nature
Reserve.
Pg41 – Bokkeveld Sandstone Fynbos is
Vulnerable, and not Least Threatened
Pg43 – Namakwa Granite Renosterveld
is Vulnerable, and not Least Threatened
Pg46 - Namakwa Granite Renosterveld
is Vulnerable, and not Least Threatened
Pg48 – Richtersveld Coastal Duneveld is
Vulnerable, and not Least Threatened
Pg53 – replace biodiversity corridors with
Ecological Supporting Areas
Pg59 – as far as I know, the Namakwa
Marine Protected Area has not been
gazetted yet?
Pg93 – replace conservancies with
nature reserves
Pg94 – include Oorlogskloof Nature
Reserve under Eco-tourism list
Pg94 – write out Oorlogskloof Nature
Reserve, under Adventure Tourism list
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
Pg95 – remove Namakwa Festival,
under Culture and Historical Features.
Otherwise include all festivals in the
district e.g. Calvinia Meat Festival.
Pg98 – replace Conservation Areas with
Protected Areas
Pg99 – write out Orange River Mouth
RAMSAR site
Pg99 – replace Richtersveld Community
Conservancy with Richtersveld World
Heritage Site
Pg99 – spelling error – replace with
Nababiep Nature Reserve, at Vioolsdrift
Pg99 – replace Kleinzee Nature
Reserve, near Kleinzee with Molineux
Private Nature Reserve
Pg99 – replace Black Mountain Nature
Reserve, near Aggeneys with Black
Mountain Private Nature Reserve
Pg99 – replace conservation areas with
Protected Areas
Pg101 – include information on Goegap,
Nababiep and Oorlogskloof Nature
Reserves, as you have done with the
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
national parks.
Pg162 – replace conservancies with
nature reserves
Pg162 – include Goegap, Nababiep and
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserves in list.
Pg202 – include Nature Reserves and
Kloofs in list
Pg207 – replace Conservation Areas
with Protected Areas
Pg207 – remove Black Mountain Nature
Reserve (not access able to the public)
Pg207 – include Oorlogskloof Nature
Reserve, Nababiep Nature Reserve and
Richtersveld World Heritage Site
Pg208 – replace biodiversity corridors
with Ecological Supporting Areas
Pg217 – include the following: The EMF
must be implemented and mainstreamed
parallel with the Namakwa Biodiversity
Sector Plan. Although the Biodiversity
Sector Plan informed the EMF on the
Biodiversity Important Aspects it must
always be consulted with any
development projects that might impact
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
Amended
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No. Name Organisation Comments Response
on the environment.
The ranking of sensitivity zones works
well and I like the idea, but unfortunately
it is at a very broad scale. Many of the
critical biodiversity areas are lost in the
4.7x5.5km grids. Therefore it must be
stressed that the EMF does NOT replace
the Namakwa Biodiversity Sector Plan. It
must be used parallel with the Sector
Plan on any development projects that
might impact on the environment. Very
specific mentioning must be made
towards the Namakwa Biodiversity
Sector Plan in the EMF, as well as where
it could be obtained – LED Officials in
municipalities or at Department of
Environment and Nature Conservation,
Springbok Office. It is also available at
http://bgis.sanbi.org/
The EMF/SEMP is not a stand-alone
report and must be used in conjuction
with the Namakwa Biodiversity Sector
Plan
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Appendix B. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ZONES
Recommended