Appendix H: Soil Specialist Assessment - Phola/3... · one or more of the nutrient elements essential for the growth and reproduction of plants. Fine sand: (1) A soil separate consisting

Appendix H: Soil Specialist Assessment

Stonecap Trading 14 (Pty) Ltd

EARTH SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS _______________________________________________ REG No. 2005/021338/07_____________________________________________

Our Ref:

Your Ref:

Nelspruit Office:

Tel: 013-753 2746, Fax: 013-752 2565

E-mail: [email protected]

PO Box 26264, Steiltes, Nelspruit, 1200

Middelburg Office:

Tel: 013- 243 5864, Fax: 013-243 5866

E-mail: [email protected]

15th October 2011

Synergistics Environmental Services P.O. Box 1822 Rivonia 2128 Gauteng

South Africa

Tel: Tel: 011 807 8225

Fax: 011 807 8226

Email: [email protected]

[email protected]

Attention: Ms. Mari Els (Project Co-ordinator)

Dear Mari/Marline,

Re: PHOLA-KUSILE OVERLAND COAL CONVEYOR

SPECIALIST SOILS, LAND CAPABILITY AND LAND USE STUDIES – IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND

MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Dear Marline,

In line with the Terms of Reference supplied, and discussions had with the project team

regarding the soils and land capability assessments required and proposed for the New

Largo Conveyor Project, the following draft report detailing the findings of the site

investigation, and the results is tabled for your comment.

Should you require any additional information in this regard, please do not hesitate to

contact us.

Yours faithfully

Earth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd

Ian Jones B.Sc. (Geol) Pr.Sci.Nat (400040/08), EAP Certified

Director

ANGLO AMERICAN

INYOSI COAL

PHOLA-KUSILE

OVERLAND COALCONVEYOR

SPECIALIST

SOILS AND LAND CAPABILITY STUDIES

Compiled on Behalf of

October 2011

Sustaining the Environment

DR

AF

T E

IA R

EP

OR

T v

1.3

CLIENT:

Synergistics Environmental Services P.O. Box 1822 Rivonia 2128 Gauteng

South Africa

Tel: Tel: 011 807 8225

Fax: 011 807 8226

Email: [email protected]

[email protected]

Proposal Number: SG.NL.S.10.03.033

Client: Synergistics Environmental Services

Attention: Marline/Mari

DOCUMENT ISSUE STATUS

Report/Proposal Name Phola-Kusile Overland Coal Conveyor Route - Pedological and Land Capability

Studies

Report/Proposal Number SG.NL.S.10.03.033

Report Status Draft Report v1.3

Carried Out By Earth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd

Commissioned By Synergistics

Copyright ESS (Pty) Ltd.

Title Name Capacity Signature Date

Author Ian Jones Director

15th October 2011

Project Director Marline Medallie

Technical Review Mari Els

* This report is not to be used for contractual or engineering purposes unless permissions are obtained from the authors.

Declaration

This specialist report has been compiled in terms of the South African Environmental legislation

and forms part of the overall impact assessment, both as a standalone document and as

supporting information to the overall impact assessment and management plan for the

proposed development.

The specialist Pedological and Land Capability studies where managed and signed off by Ian

Jones (Pr. Sci Nat 400040/08), an Earth Scientist with 34 years of experience in these fields of

expertise.

I declare that both, Ian Jones, and Earth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd are totally independent in

this process, and have no vested interest in the project.

The objectives of the study were to:

Provide a permanent record of the present soil resources in the area that are

potentially going to be affected by the proposed development and

processing/mining related activities,

Assess the nature of the site in relation to the overall environment and its present

and proposed utilization, and determine the capability of the land in terms of

agricultural utilization, and

Provide a base plan from which long-term ecological and environmental decisions

can be made, impacts of the proposed development can be determined, and

mitigation and rehabilitation management plans can be formulated.

The Taxonomic Soil Classification System and a combination of the Canadian Land Inventory

System and Chamber of Mines Land Capability Rating Systems were used as the basis for the

soils and land capability investigations respectively. These systems are recognized nationally

and internationally.

Signed: 15th October 2011 at Nelspruit

Ian Jones B.Sc. (Geol) Pr.Sci.Nat 400040/08, EAP Certified

Director – Earth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd

Phola-Kusile Overland Coal Conveyor Route

Baseline Pedological, Land Capability and Land Use Assessment

Draft Report iii

Earth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd October 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION AND PHYSIOGRAPHY 4 1.1 Introduction 4 1.2 Legal Considerations 7 1.3 Summary of Baseline Findings 9

2. IMPACT ASSESSMENT 12 2.1 Impact Philosophy 12 2.2 Impact Assessment Variables 15

3. CONVEYOR ROUTE (cr) – ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 16 3.1 Planned Activities – Conveyor Route 18 3.2 Impact Assessment 19

3.2.1 Construction Phase 19 3.2.2 Operational Phase 22 3.2.3 Decommissioning & Closure Phase 24

4. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN – services corridor 26 4.1 Construction Phase 27 4.2 Operational Phase 29 4.3 Decommissioning and Closure 31

5 Monitoring and Maintenance 33 LIST OF REFERENCES 34

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1a - Locality of Prefered Convyer Route 5 Figure 1b – Soil Map - Prefered Convyer Route 6 Figure 2.1a – Plan of Proposed Route and Crossing Points (Waterways) 13 Figure 2.1b – Design Drawings (Example of footing designs and methodology) 14 Figure 3 – Sensitivity Plan 17



Draft Report iv


LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1 – Significance Rating System 12 Table 3.2.1 – Construction Phase – Impact Significance 21 Table 3.2.2 – Operational Phase – Impact Significance 24 Table 3.2.3a – Decommissioning Phase – Impact Significance 25 Table 3.2.3b – Closure Phase – Impact Significance 25 Table 8.1 – Construction Phase – Soil Utilization Plan 28 Table 8.2– Operational Phase – Soil Conservation Plan 30 Table 8.3 – Decommissioning and Closure Phase – Soil Conservation Plan 32

LIST OF APPENDICIES

Appendix 1 Vetiver Grass

Appendix 2 Study Maps



Draft Report 1


GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Alluvium: Refers to detrital deposits resulting from the operation of modern

streams and rivers.

Base status: A qualitative expression of base saturation. See base saturation

percentage.

Buffer capacity: The ability of soil to resist an induced change in pH.

Calcareous: Containing calcium carbonate (calcrete).

Catena: A sequence of soils of similar age, derived from similar parent material,

and occurring under similar macroclimatic conditions, but having

different characteristics due to variation in relief and drainage.

Clast: An individual constituent, grain or fragment of a sediment or

sedimentary rock produced by the physical disintegration of a larger

rock mass.

Cohesion: The molecular force of attraction between similar substances. The

capacity of sticking together. The cohesion of soil is that part of its

shear strength which does not depend upon inter-particle friction.

Attraction within a soil structural unit or through the whole soil in apedel

soils.

Concretion: A nodule made up of concentric accretions.

Crumb: A soft, porous more or less rounded ped from one to five millimetres in

diameter. See structure, soil.

Cutan: Cutans occur on the surfaces of peds or individual particles (sand

grains, stones). They consist of material which is usually finer than, and

that has an organisation different to the material that makes up the

surface on which they occur. They originate through deposition,

diffusion or stress. Synonymous with clayskin, clay film, argillan.

Desert Plain: The undulating topography outside of the major river valleys that is

impacted by low rainfall (<25cm) and strong winds.

Denitrification: The biochemical reduction of nitrate or nitrite to gaseous nitrogen,

either as molecular nitrogen or as an oxide of nitrogen.

Erosion: The group of processes whereby soil or rock material is loosened or

dissolved and removed from any part of the earth’s surface.

Fertilizer: An organic or inorganic material, natural or synthetic, which can supply

one or more of the nutrient elements essential for the growth and

reproduction of plants.

Fine sand: (1) A soil separate consisting of particles 0,25-0,1mm in diameter.

(2) A soil texture class (see texture) with fine sand plus very fine sand

(i.e. 0,25-0,05mm in diameter) more than 60% of the sand fraction.



Draft Report 2


Fine textured soils: Soils with a texture of sandy clay, silty clay or clay.

Hardpan: A massive material enriched with and strongly cemented by

sesquioxides, chiefly iron oxides (known as ferricrete, diagnostic hard

plinthite, ironpan, ngubane, ouklip, laterite hardpan), silica (silcrete,

dorbank) or lime (diagnostic hardpan carbonate-horizon, calcrete).

Ortstein hardpans are cemented by iron oxides and organic matter.

Land capability: The ability of land to meet the needs of one or more uses under defined

conditions of management.

Land type: (1) A class of land with specified characteristics. (2) In South Africa it

has been used as a map unit denoting land, mapable at 1:250,000

scale, over which there is a marked uniformity of climate, terrain form

and soil pattern.

Land use: The use to which land is put.

Mottling: A mottled or variegated pattern of colours is common in many soil

horizons. It may be the result of various processes inter alia

hydromorphy, illuviation, biological activity, and rock weathering in freely

drained conditions (i.e. saprolite). It is described by noting (i) the colour

of the matrix and colour or colours of the principal mottles, and (ii) the

pattern of the mottling.

The latter is given in terms of abundance (few, common 2 to 20% of the

exposed surface, or many), size (fine, medium 5 to 15mm in diameter

along the greatest dimension, or coarse), contrast (faint, distinct or

prominent), form (circular, elongated-vesicular, or streaky) and the

nature of the boundaries of the mottles (sharp, clear or diffuse); of

these, abundance, size and contrast are the most important.

Nodule: Bodies of various shapes, sizes and colour that have been hardened to

a greater or lesser extent by chemical compounds such as lime,

sesquioxides, animal excreta and silica. These may be described in

terms of kind (durinodes, gypsum, insect casts, ortstein, iron,

manganese, lime, lime-silica, plinthite, salts), abundance (few, less than

20% by volume percentage; common, 20 – 50%; many, more than

50%), hardness (soft, hard meaning barely crushable between thumb

and forefinger, indurated) and size (threadlike, fine, medium 2 – 5mm

in diameter, coarse).

Overburden: A material which overlies another material difference in a specified

respect, but mainly referred to in this document as materials overlying

weathered rock.

Ped: Individual natural soil aggregate (e.g. block, prism) as contrasted with a

clod produced by artificial disturbance.



Draft Report 3


Pedocutanic, diagnostic B-horizon: The concept embraces B-horizons that have become

enriched in clay, presumably by illuviation (an important

pedogenic process which involves downward movement of

fine materials by, and deposition from, water to give rise to

cutanic character) and that have developed moderate or

strong blocky structure. In the case of a red pedocutanic B-

horizon, the transition to the overlying A-horizon is clear or

abrupt.

Pedology: The branch of soil science that treats soils as natural phenomena,

including their morphological, physical, chemical, mineralogical and

biological properties, their genesis, their classification and their

geographical distribution.

Slickensides: In soils, these are polished or grooved surfaces within the soil resulting

from part of the soil mass sliding against adjacent material along a

plane which defines the extent of the slickensides. They occur in clayey

materials with a high smectite content.

Sodic soil: Soil with a low soluble salt content and a high exchangeable sodium

percentage (usually EST > 15).

Swelling clay: Clay minerals such as the smectites that exhibit interlayer swelling

when wetted, or clayey soils which, on account of the presence of

swelling clay minerals, swell when wetted and shrink with cracking

when dried. The latter are also known as heaving soils.

Texture, soil: The relative proportions of the various size separates in the soil as

described by the classes of soil texture shown in the soil texture chart

(see diagram on next page). The pure sand, sand, loamy sand, sandy

loam and sandy clay loam classes are further subdivided (see diagram)

according to the relative percentages of the coarse, medium and fine

sand subseparates.

Vadose Zone: The vadose zone, also (but somewhat incorrectly) termed the

unsaturated zone, is the portion of Earth between the land surface and

the top of the phreatic zone i.e. the position at which the groundwater

(the water in the soil's pores) is at atmospheric pressure ("vadose" is

Latin for "shallow"). Hence the vadose zone extends from the top of the

ground surface to the water table.

Vertic, diagnostic A-horizon: A-horizons that have both, high clay content and a predominance

of smectitic clay minerals possess the capacity to shrink and

swell markedly in response to moisture changes. Such expansive

materials have a characteristic appearance: structure is strongly

developed, ped faces are shiny, and consistence is highly plastic

when moist and sticky when wet.



Draft Report 4


1. INTRODUCTION AND PHYSIOGRAPHY

1.1 Introduction

With the baseline study having been completed in 2007, and with a mine plan available and the

market secured for the product, it was important that the feasibility study assess the best

alternatives for the transportation and delivery of the product to the client.

The use of a Conveyor line was considered the best engineering and economic alternative, with a

number of routes being tabled for environmental consideration.

This document has reviewed the existing soil information and re-visited the more sensitive areas

along the candidate route. The preliminary alternatives assessment on the proposed routes was

considered at desktop level, with sufficient baseline information at hand to achieve a reliable

consideration for the best candidate route.

The sensitive sites (predominantly stream and river crossings) were re-visited in order to obtain a

renewed understanding of each of the areas where impacts are likely to be greatest, and so that

the spatial extent of the areas of concern could be more accurately mapped.

It was incumbent on the specialist environmental team to consider the impacts of the proposed

infrastructure and its operation on the environment. With an understanding of the baseline

conditions in hand, and the determination of the existing state of the environment covered, the

relative sensitivities and areas of concern have been highlighted as the basis for the

Environmental Impact Assessment for the linear infrastructure, and is documented as a separate

submission for the New Largo Conveyor EIA.

This report has been compiled in line with the Guideline Document for Impact Assessment

philosophy and Significance Rating System (NEMA). This aims to identify and quantify the

environmental and/or social aspects of the proposed activities, to assess how the aspects will

affect the existing state, and link the aspects to variables that have been defined in terms of the

baseline study. In addition, the impact assessment will define a maximum acceptable level of

impact for each of the variables, inclusive of any standards, limits and/or thresholds, and will

assess the impact in terms of the significance rating as defined. This will require that the

cumulative effects are considered, and that the common sources of impact are detailed.

Based on the outcomes of the impact assessment, the site specific management planning and

mitigation measures for the soils will be defined and detailed. This will include defining what the

mitigation will do to reduce the intensity and probability of the impact, and ensure that the

prescriptive mitigation proposed is clear, site specific and practical. In addition, and as part of

the practical management plan, a comprehensive monitoring system will be tabled.

The New Largo Project is described in detail as part of the baseline EIA. However, for the sake

of clarity, it is important that the context of this document is understood.

The lead consultants (Synergistics Environmental Consultants) requested Earth Science

Solutions (Pty) Ltd (ESS) to undertake the specialist studies along with the Impact Assessment

and Management planning for the proposed “Conveyor Route/Service Corridor” (CR/SC) as a

separate process from the mining EIA. The alignment of the finalised route is depicted in Figure

1a (Orange Line).



Draft Report 5


Figure 1a - Locality of Prefered Convyer Route



Draft Report 6


Figure 1b – Soil Map - Prefered Conveyor Route

NEarth Science Solutions (Pty) Ltd

19 Rothery St, Nelsprui t

PO Box 26264, Steil tes, Nelspruit, 1200

(T) +27 (0)13 753 2746

(F) +27 (0)13 752 2565

[email protected]

FUGU RE N UM BER : 2.1.2

PR OJEC T N UM BER : OX.NL.S.06.05.046

DATE: March 2007

CLIEN T: Oryx Env ironm ental cc

PR OJEC T N AME: New Largo Soils

FIGU RE NAME: Soil Polygon Map

New Larg o Soils

Av 0 -1

Av 0 -2

Av 2 -4

Av 4 -6

Av 6 -8

Bo 0-1

Bo 0-2

Cv 0-1

Cv 0-2

Cv 10 -12

Cv 12 -14

Cv 15 1

Cv 2-4

Cv 4-6

Cv 6-8

Cv 8-1 0

Dr 0-2

Dr 2-4

Furrow

Gc 0-2

Gc 2-4

Gc 4-6

Gc 6-8

Gc 8-10

Gf 12 -14

Gf 2-4

Gf 4-6

Gf 6-8

Gf 8-1 0

Gs 0-2

Gs 2-4

Gs 4-6

Hu 0 -2

Hu 1 0-12

Hu 1 0-14

Hu 1 2-14

Hu 1 51

Hu 2 -4

Hu 4 -6

Hu 6 -8

Hu 8 -10

Ka 0-1

Ka 0-2

Ka 2-4

Ka 6-8

Kd 0-1

Kd 2-4

Lo 4 -6

Lo 8 -10

Ma

Ms 0-1

Ms 0-2

Ms 2-4

Ms 4-6

Pn 10 -1 2

Pn 12 -1 4

Pn 2-4

Pn 4-6

Pn 6-8

Pn 8-10

Rg 0 -1

Va 4-6

W a 0-2

W e 0-2

W e 2-4

W et

Ou tcrop

Rive rs

Pa ns & Da ms

1 0 1 2 3 Kilometers



Draft Report 7


The mining of coal and the development of a new power station (Kusile), in conjunction

with all of the associated infrastructure is a reality, with Kusile being constructed, and

the development of the mining infrastructure imminent.

Anglo American Inyosi Coal are contracted to supply coal from the Phola Washing Plant,

with the major source of the raw materials being derived from the New Largo Colliery

workings to the Kusile Power Station via the overland conveyor. The Phola Kusile Coal

Conveyor Project involves the transportation of beneficiated (sizing and blending) coal to

the power station, the conveyor system being considered the most feasible method of

transporting the coal.

The soils and land capability are two of the specialist disciplines that have been

considered important aspects of the physical environment, and which are likely to be

affected by the proposed activity.

In the planning of any new development it is important that the impacts are understood

prior to the initiation of the design and/or implementation of the project.

The environmental aspects are not least of all part of the information that is needed in

this decision making, with an understanding of how the soils and land capability will be

affected being just part of the overall sustainability equation that needs to be balanced.

Figure 1a shows the general location of the proposed development that is planned to

the west of the New Largo mining area, and shows the extent of coverage, while Figure

1b reflects the soils along the proposed route. A sensitivity map is discussed later in this

document.

Based on the information available (historic and current), the reconnaissance baseline

studies (soils and land capability), and with the development proposals for CR/SC in

hand, the areas of concern have been assessed and management measures proposed

to minimise and mitigate the impacts wherever possible. The principle of “No net loss”

has been followed wherever possible. However, the development of the Conveyor link

between the Phola Washing Plant and the power station will require a significantly large

surface area to be disturbed for a significant period of time, and the present land uses

(soils) and land capabilities will definitely be changed. These activities will challenge the

concept of “No Net Loss”.

1.2 Legal Considerations

As part of understanding the consequences of the proposed development and the

maximum acceptable levels of impact that will be considered by the authorities, a

summary of the national legislation that pertains to soils is considered helpful, and will

aid in setting the permissible standards and limits that can be considered, albeit that

there are no prescribed quantitative limits that can be quoted.

The most recent South African Environmental Legislation that needs to be considered

for any new development with reference to management of soil includes:

The law on Conservation of Agricultural Resources (Act 43 of 1983) states that

the degradation of the agricultural potential of soil is illegal.

The Bill of Rights states that environmental rights exist primarily to ensure good

health and wellbeing, and secondarily to protect the environment through

reasonable legislation, ensuring the prevention of the degradation of resources.



Draft Report 8


The Environmental right is furthered in the National Environmental Management

Act (No. 107 of 1998), which prescribes three principles, namely the

precautionary principle, the “polluter pays” principle and the preventive

principle.

It is stated in the above-mentioned Act that the individual/group responsible for

the degradation/pollution of natural resources is required to rehabilitate the

polluted source.

Soils and land capability are protected under the National Environmental

Management Act 107 of 1998, the Environmental Conservation Act 73 of 1989,

the Minerals Act 50 of 1991 and the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act

43 of 1983.

The National Veld and Forest Fire Bill of 10 July 1998 and the Fertilizer, Farm

Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act 36 of 1947 can also be

applicable in some cases.

The National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 requires that

pollution and degradation of the environment be avoided, or, where it cannot be

avoided be minimized and remedied.

The Minerals Act of 1991 requires an EMPR, in which the soils and land

capability be described.

The Conservation of Agriculture Resources Act 43 of 1983 requires the

protection of land against soil erosion and the prevention of water logging and

salinization of soils by means of suitable soil conservation works to be

constructed and maintained. The utilization of marshes, water sponges and

water courses are also addressed.

In addition to the South African legal compliance list, this proposed development has

also been assessed in terms of the International Performance Standards as detailed by

the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The IFC has developed a series of Performance Standards to assist developers and

potential clients in assessing the environmental and social risks associated with a

project and assisting the client in identifying and defining roles and responsibilities

regarding the management of risk.

Performance Standard 1 establishes the importance of:

Integrated assessment to identify the social and environmental impacts, risks,

and opportunities of projects;

Effective community engagement through disclosure of project-related

information and consultation with local communities on matters that directly

affect them; and

The client’s management of social and environmental performance throughout

the life of the project.

Performance Standards 2 through 8 establish requirements to avoid, reduce, mitigate or

compensate for impacts on people and the environment, and to improve conditions

where appropriate. While all relevant social and environmental risks and potential

impacts should be considered as part of the assessment, Performance Standards 2

through 8 describe potential social and environmental impacts that require particular

attention in emerging markets. Where social or environmental impacts are anticipated,

the client is required to manage them through its Social and Environmental

Management System consistent with Performance Standard 1.

Of importance to this report are:



Draft Report 9


The requirements to collect adequate baseline data;

The requirements of an impact/risk assessment;

The requirements of a management program;

The requirements of a monitoring program; and most importantly;

To apply relevant standards (either host country or other).

With regard to the application of relevant standards (either host country or other) there

are no specific guidelines relating to soils and land use/capability, either locally or within

the World Bank’s or IFC’s suite of Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines. The

World Bank’s Mining and Milling, Underground guideline does state, however, that

project sponsors are required to prepare and implement an erosion and sediment

control plan.

The plan should include measures appropriate to the situation to intercept, divert, or

otherwise reduce the storm water runoff from exposed soil surfaces, tailings dams, and

waste rock dumps.

Project sponsors are encouraged to integrate vegetative and non-vegetative soil

stabilization measures in the erosion control plan.

Sediment control structures (e.g., detention/retention basins) should be installed to

treat surface runoff prior to discharge to surface water bodies. All erosion control and

sediment containment facilities must receive proper maintenance during their design

life. This will be included in the appropriate management plans when they are developed

at a later stage in the project’s life cycle.

1.3 Summary of Baseline Findings

The baseline soil and land capability specialist studies have highlighted a number of

attributes and issues of concern that should possibly be incorporated into the

development planning in an attempt at obtaining a sustainable project.

The findings of the baseline study (Refer to Report OX.NL.S.06.05.046 dated

08/05/2007) include the following general conclusions:

Highly variable depth characteristics occur, with relatively small areas of rocky

outcrop and ferricrete exposure to deeper in-situ derived soils associated

cultivated lands and commercial livestock farming;

Generally moderate to low clay soils with low reserves of organic carbon and

resultant high potential erodibility on the sedimentary derived (in-situ) soils , to

moderate clay contents, that are associated with better than average soil water

characteristics and moderate land capability potential on the more basic soils and

colluvial/alluvial derived materials (lower slopes);

Poor nutrient stores in association with high permeability rates in the upper soil

horizons and poor water holding characteristics for the sedimentary derived soils

and impermeable to low permeability on the ferricrete layer that underlies the relic

land forms and lower slope positions in many cases;

A ferricrete layer that forms a relatively impermeable barrier to sub surface water

infiltration, forming sub-surface ephemeral pans and subsurface channel

environs, a zone of sensitivity (restrictive barrier) that has ecological ramifications;



Draft Report 10


The proposed development will impact on all of the differing soil forms, including the

shallow rocky areas, deep well drained soils and wet to very wet (wetland) areas (Refer

to Figure 1b).

The proposed route for the Conveyor has taken recognition of the possibility of wetlands

associated with the stream/river crossings, and as such has attempted to minimise the

spatial area of wetlands that could be impacted. It is however inevitable that some of

the more sensitive materials will be affected.

The sensitivity map (Figure 4) indicates the relative positions of the High Sensitivity

areas.

The stream crossing in the south of the area is of significance by its extent as well as the

erodibility of the soils, with the proposed route trending the length of the stream for a

significant distance.

The infrastructure will affect two existing farm dams and the riparian zone (wetland and

transition zone soils) and will, if not well managed have a highly negative impact on the

stream over a significant length.

The highly leached nature of some of the soils mapped within the Conveyor servitude

(Conveyor line and service road) renders these soils more susceptible to erosion, the

loss of the resource, sedimentation of the water body and degradation of the river

system.

The planned facilities cross some of the more ecologically and biophysically sensitive

soils, albeit that in almost all cases the soils have already been impacted by other

development. These areas were highlighted in the scoping phase as “High Sensitivity”

areas. This is an issue we believe requires further discussion prior to the finalising of

the conveyor route planning and design.

The variation in soil structure, texture and clay content of the soils combined with the

presence of a ferricrete or hard setting saprolitic base (“C” Horizon) for many of the soils

mapped makes for a complex of natural conditions that are going to be extremely

difficult to replicate in the rehabilitation stage and at closure.

The low levels of organic carbon and relatively low nutrient stores of some important

nutrients within the top soils will require that a sound management plan is adopted

based on the best impact assessment information. The concept of “utilizable soil”

storage has been introduced as a basic management tool, and a function of good

environment practise. The practicality of stripping soil using large machinery has been

noted, and the management plan recognises that topsoil and subsoil will easily be mixed

and the important elements of the soil lost if the practicality is not addressed.

All of the soils mapped are sensitive to erosion and compaction to varying degrees and,

although tempered by the relative flatness of the terrain, will need a well formulated

management plan were the soils are to be exposed and disturbed.

In addition, the variable depth profiles of the materials that occur across the sites of

concern and the resultant depths of utilizable soil that can be stripped and stored will

make for challenging management of the soil stripping during construction (stripping of

the soils), the operational phase (storage of the soils) and at closure (rehabilitation and

emplacement of stored soils).



Draft Report 11


The impact of development on the soils and the resultant change in the land capability is

varied due to the unique differences associated with the colluvial derived materials

(lower slopes and bottom lands), versus the in-situ derived soils. These factors will be

important in the environmental assessment and final management plan tabled, with

“separation” of materials forming the basis for economically and sustainable

rehabilitation at closure.

The moderately complex nature of the geology (physical and chemical) and

geomorphology of the area, and the climate, all play a significant role in the soil forming

process, and have a bearing on the sensitivity and/or vulnerability of the materials when

being worked or disturbed. These factors are important not only in planning the

construction and operational activities, but will determine the success of the

rehabilitation planning for the future.

And, it has to be reiterated and emphasised that soil forms the growing medium, is

fundamental to our food source and forms the water store for man and nature. Soil is

fundamental to the ecological and life cycle and the sustainability of the biosphere. The

loss of the soil resource is directly connected to the sustainability of life as we know it in

this environment.



Draft Report 12


2. IMPACT ASSESSMENT

2.1 Impact Philosophy

Based on the Terms of Reference Supplied by the Lead Consultants, with the South

African Integrated Environmental Management Information Series (DEAT 2002) as a

guideline in Impact Assessment philosophy, and with an understanding of the linear

infrastructure route that is required to carry the support services (conveyor and service

road etc.), the activities have been assessed and the significance rating determined for

the major impacts/effects envisaged (Refer to Table 2.1 below).

This environmental impact assessment has been undertaken based on the August 2011

Phola –Kusile Conveyor Route Preferred Conveyor Options (Refer to Figure 1b) and the

more detailed information obtained from the New Largo Stage 1 – Integrated Water Use

License Application (IWWULA) and its associated design drawings (C 184 Series) and

appendices – dated July 2011 and compiled by Jones & Wagener. Figures 2.1a and

2.1b indicate areas of sensitivity where waterways are to be crossed, and the proposed

design inputs respectively.

Table 2.1 – Significance Rating System

Low 2

Moderate 4

Moderately High 7

High 10

Low 2

Moderate 4

Moderately High 7

High 10

Severe 15

Site Only 1

Immediate vicinity (10km radius of the source) 2

Local (50 km Radius of the sourse) 3

Regional (provincial scale, large scale catchment) 4

National 5

Trans Boarder 6

Global 7

Immediate short -term (several months) 1

Construction or decommissioning period 2

Longer than construction but shorter than operations 3

Operational Period 4

Perminant but reversable 5

Irreversable 6

Highly Frequent 1

Infrequent 2

Regular 3

Continuous 4

Negligible 0.1

Possible but unlikely 0.2

Likely 0.5

Definite 1

Frequency

Probability

Significance Rating System

Significance = Impact Intensity X Probability Impact manifests

Impact Intesity = Intensity Potential + Extent + Duration + Frequency

Intensity Potential (+ ve)

Intensity Potential (-ve)

Extent

Duration



Draft Report 13


Figure 2.1a – Plan of Proposed Route and Crossing Points (Waterways)



Draft Report 14


Figure 2.1b –Design Drawings



Draft Report 15


2.2 Impact Assessment Variables

Of consequence to the soils and land capability of the areas to be affected are the changes that

the activities and related aspects being planned will have on the existing physical and socio

economic state of the physical and chemical environment.

The activities and environmental aspects that are being planned for the Conveyor (linear feature)

are somewhat different from the mining activity, with the degree of environmental change or

impact resulting from the changes being directly related to the activity and aspect.

In consideration of the affects that the Conveyor line might have on the environment, the following

considerations are regarded as relevant:

The depth of foundations required for the plinth footings and the disturbance of the soil

profile to at least 500mm and possibly 1,500mm in places;

The relatively small footprint area for each of the plinth footings is significant, albeit that

the area that will be taken out of productive or constructive use in terms of the land

capability will remain relatively large;

The routing of the service road will be important, and should be designed so that it is

functional to the maintenance of the infrastructure, but reduces the area of impact on the

“high sensitive” soils to as small a footprint as possible (Take direct/perpendicular route

across stream and wetlands);

The storage of the soils should be managed so as to optimise the management ability, but

reduce the need for double handling and the loss of materials due to wind or water erosion.



Draft Report 16


3. CONVEYOR ROUTE (CR) – ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

With the EIA methodology and philosophy covered in the preceding section (section 2), and with

a significant amount of information available on what activities are to be undertaken in relation

to the CR, and with the aspects considered having been detailed, an assessment of the

environmental impacts has been carried out, and measured against the existing present

environmental state using the significance rating supplied.

The outcomes are tabled as discussion points for the group presentation to the client and EAP’s

involved in the compilation of the EIR. At this stage, the findings should be considered as draft

submissions that will potentially be altered once the discussions and inputs of the other

specialists, client and EAP’s have been received.

This section assesses and measures/quantifies the environmental aspects of the activities in

terms of how they will affect the existing state, and details the maximum acceptable level of

impact for each of the variables listed.

Based on these findings, the significance of the impact is rated in terms of its unmanaged and

managed state, with the management recommendations forming the basis of the Environmental

Management Plan.

Of significance to the Conveyor Route (linear structure) are the group of sensitive to highly

sensitive wet based and in places more structured soils that are associated with the riparian

zones and relic land forms.

These zones are generally regarded as Highly Sensitive or “No Go” areas in terms of the legal

conditions that pertain to river crossings and wetlands. However, the motivation for and

mitigation of the possible impacts will aid in the obtaining of permissions from the authorities.

The conclusions and some recommendations on the route proposed have been given at the end

of this document. Suffice it at this stage, that the majority of the crossings have been

engineered and managed so as to minimise the spatial area of impact and thus effect on the

resource. The southern central portion is regarded as an area of concern and of potential high

significance to the project. This area (it is proposed) should be considered for further

consideration.

The larger pans (Northern and central) although not part of the development zone that is being

planned for utilization are areas with a significantly high sensitivity, and are part of the greater

wetland system that is being considered by the overall study. The LINKAGES between these

sensitive features and the riparian zones associated with the Conveyor route have been looked

at in some detail.

Linkage in terms of the functionality of the wetlands and water bodies are of importance, and

the possible impacts of the mining venture of the sensitive zones within the Conveyor footprint

are points of added interest that have not been investigated as part of these studies.

In terms of the wetland delineation guidelines, and the legal status of wetlands these areas should/must not be impacted, and should be protected unless otherwise stated in terms of the legal requirements (Licensing and authorisation). The sensitivity of the wet based soils,

and utilization potential of the more structured materials are tabled as motivation for the added

management and mitigation (Engineering etc.) that will be needed over many of the river

crossings if the existing alignment is to be considered as the optimal route.



Draft Report 17


Figure 3 – Sensitivity Plan



Draft Report 18


3.1 Planned Activities – Conveyor Route

The key activities planned on the SC site include:

Construction of a covered Conveyor line

Construction of a service road alongside the Conveyor;

Supply of power to the electric motors;

Construction of seven (7) transfer stations;

Borrow Pits;

Storm water Control facilities;

Fences on both sides of the corridor.

The total affected area is planned to be less than 500m from fence to fence and will contain all

of the planned infrastructure.

The CR will be restricted to land that is owned by the mining company or traverse land owned by

the power station. The services road will be restricted to servicing and

construction/maintenance vehicles only and as such will not require a substantial engineered

component to the foundations.

With the conceptual plan for the CR tabled, and an understanding of the proposed methodology

and relative quantities of materials that will need to be moved and utilized, it is evident that the

major concerns and probable impacts that could affect the soils and associated land capability

are confined to:

The loss of the soil resource due the change in land use and the removal of the resource

from the existing system (Sterilization of 500m wide corridor). The construction of these

facilities will change land utilization potential (land capability) resulting in the complete

loss of the soils resource for the life of the activity.

The possible permanent loss of the soil resource due to the erosion (wind and water) of

unprotected soils;

The possible loss of the utilization potential of the soil and land capability due to

compaction of areas adjacent to the constructed facilities;

The permanent loss of the resource due to removal of materials for use in other

activities such as berms for Stormwater control etc.;

The contamination of the resource (both in-situ and stored) due to spillage of

hydrocarbons, (oils and grease used on conveyer, service vehicles etc.), reagents and

raw materials (coal);

The contamination of stored or in-situ materials due to dust or emissions fallout from

the conveyencing of coal, and/or the use of dirty water as an irrigation source;

The loss of the soil utilization potential due to the disturbance of the soils and potential

loss of nutrient and organic carbon stores through infiltration and de-nitrification of the

materials by rainfall.



Draft Report 19


3.2 Impact Assessment

3.2.1 Construction Phase

Issue - Loss of utilizable resource (sterilization and erosion), compaction and

contamination.

The construction phase will require:

The stripping of all utilizable soil (Top 150mm to 1,500mm depending on activity);

The preparation (levelling and compaction) of lay-down areas, foundations and pad

footprint areas for stockpiling of utilizable soil removed from the roadway footprint,

any rest areas or laybys and the excavations for the Conveyor plinths/footings (Refer

to Figure 2.1b;

The clearing (vegetation), stripping and stockpiling from the construction of all

temporary access and services roads and possible electrical power supply servitudes;

The use of heavy machinery over unprotected soils (Construction phase only);

The creation of dust and possible loss of materials to wind and water erosion, and

The possible contamination of the soils by chemical and hydrocarbons spills (vehicle

spills, accidents and dirty water runoff);

The noted (baseline study) differences in the texture of the soil forms mapped, the soil depth

variations, composition of the “C” horizon, wetness of subsoil’s and the structure of the different

soil groups is of significance to the impact assessment and the sensitivity that is assigned to the

different soil groups and land capabilities to be effected. The difference in the significance of

the expected impacts based on soil form or group alone will influence the design criteria and alignment or positioning of the service road and the support infrastructure, albeit that additional information will need to be sourced by the geotechnical engineer for any designs (information NOT to be used for engineering design purposes). These variables are also

important, and will have a bearing on the management recommendations made.

The impacts described are confined to the CR area as defined, and illustrated in the Figure

2.1b.

Mention is not made of any off-site activities that might be required. However, these would, if

required be confined in the main to the creation of borrow pits for rock and sand. Consideration

should be given to using waste rock (if available) from the operation as this will minimise the

need for additional disturbance of the environment. The project is confined to the delineated

footprint and its immediate surroundings, and as such the “spatial extent” is regarded as “Site

Only” or at worst “Localised” (Refer to Significance Methodology).

The size and weight of vehicle (small and light) that will utilize the service roadway will require

that only limited design is necessary, and that only the top 150mm to 300mm of soil is removed from the footprint prior to the construction of the sub-base and emplacement of the

road surface. Any trenches to be dug or foundations for the Conveyor plinth footings will all

impact on the total soil depth and in most cases the underlying saprolite or ferricrete horizon

(1,500mm).

The utilizable soil removed from the roadway, transfer stations and plinth footings will need to

be stockpiled either as a dump in one or two fenced off areas within the delineated conveyer

route reserve, or as a berm along the length of the servitude and around the transfer stations as

part of the drainage system. These materials need to be stored and protected.



Draft Report 20


A number of temporary facilities will be used primarily for the construction phase of the project

and possibly into the early stages of the operation, with the need for a contractors camp and

access roads etc. The management and rehabilitation of these areas should be undertaken as

soon as they are no-longer needed.

These areas will be available for rehabilitation once the permanent facilities are constructed.

The permanent infrastructure will be in place for the life of the mining project and more probably

beyond.

A number of site specific baseline (existing environment) conditions need mention here if the

significance of the activities being planned on the environment are to be understood. Of

importance are:

The underlying ferricrete layer (barrier layer), and its function as a barrier to soil water

loss down the profile. This will in almost all cases be destroyed and possibly removed

from the system, particularly in the case of the plinth footing/foundations and any

foundations associated with the transfer stations and related infrastructure;

All/any pan structures and their surrounds that classify as wetlands are considered to

be ecologically sensitive, important and potentially “No Go” areas;

These conditions will have a bearing on the ratings being assigned to the overall impact

statement as loss of these features will have a definite localised negative impact that is of

significance to the ecological functionality of the area. The ferricrete horizon acts as a barrier to

surface and soil water infiltration. This feature within the vadose zone is considered important

for the biodiversity and ecological balance of this sensitive environment, and is probably

responsible for soil water and surface water being retained in a position close to surface were it

can be used.

Impact Significance

The loss of the utilization of the soil resource will impact the land use practice of moderate

intensity grazing and commercial farming. These activities are perceived to be of great economic

benefit to the local economy and land owners, and although the argument that the food security

in Southern Africa is unbalanced (too much maize produced), the need to protect deep soils is

essential.

The construction of the Conveyor will, if un-managed and without mitigation:

Have a definite negative impact on the environment due to the loss of the soil area and

thus the use of the utilizable resource, the total footprint having been disturbed and

altered to mining land and restricted from use;

Have the potential for contamination (hydrocarbon and reagent chemical spills, raw

materials and spillage of coal), compaction of working areas and temporary storage

laydown facility footprint and the potential for erosion (wind and water – dust and

suspended solids) over unprotected areas,

Have a moderate negative intensity potential ranking based on the limitation to the area

of disturbance and confined nature and design proposed for the construction and

installation of the infrastructure;

Is permanent but reversible, can be broken up and rehabilitated and

Is confined to the site only (Corridor as defined)

However, with management, the sterilization, degree of contamination, compaction and erosion

of this primary resource can be mitigated and reduced to a level that is slightly more acceptable.



Draft Report 21


The reduction in the significance of the impact can be achieved by:

Limiting the area of impact to as small a footprint as possible, inclusive of any waste

(rock removed from conveyer foundations and/or road footprint), resource stockpiles

(utilizable soil stores) and the length of servitudes, access and service ways to the

conveyencing system wherever possible;

Construction of the road facility and associated infrastructure over the less sensitive soil

groups wherever possible;

An awareness of the length of time that the soil resource will need to be stored and

managed (life of the project and potentially beyond);

The development and inclusion of soil management as part of the general maintenance

operations, and the independent auditing of this management;

Concurrent rehabilitation of all affected sites that are not required for the operation and

the rehabilitation of temporary structures and footprint areas (Access roads,

geotechnical test pits, angering and trenching etc.);

Effective soil stripping during the less windy months when the soils are less susceptible

to erosion;

Separation of the utilizable soils and ferricrete base materials from each other and from

the soft overburden;

Effective cladding of the soil berms/heaps with vegetation and the minimising of the

height of storage facilities to 3m and soil berms to 1,5m wherever possible;

Restriction of vehicle movement over unprotected or sensitive areas, this will reduce

compaction;

Soil amelioration (cultivation) to enhance the oxygenation and growing capability

(germination) of natural regeneration and/or seed within the stockpiled soils (maintain

the soils viability during storage) and areas of concurrent rehabilitation.

It is evident that, failure to manage the impacts on this important resource (soil) will result in the

total loss of this resource, with a resultant much higher significance rating.

Residual Impact

The above management procedures will likely reduce the significance of the impacts to

moderate in the long term.

Table 3.2.1 – Construction Phase – Impact Significance

ManagementIntensi ty

Potenti a lEx tent Durati on F requency

Impact

Intensi ty

Probabi l i ty Impact

Mani festsSi gni fi cance Si gni fi cance

Unmanaged 10 1 4 4 19 1 19 H

Managed 10 1 3 3 17 1 17 MH



Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 4 1 2 3 10 1 10 MH

Managed 4 1 2 2 9 0.5 4.5 L

Construction Phase - Loss of Resource

Construction Phase - Contamination, Compaction and Erosion



Draft Report 22


3.2.2 Operational Phase

Issue Loss of Utilizable Resource (Sterilization and Erosion), Compaction, De-

nutrification and Contamination or Salinization

The operation of the Conveyor will see the impact of light services vehicles and maintenance

activities for the most part, with the cleaning of any spillage of the raw material if it occurs.

The roadway will carry a variety of vehicles, some of which could potentially disturb and impact

the soils environment. The major concerns revolve around dust, dirty water and spillage, with

the possibility of compaction of the stored materials and erosion of soil from unprotected areas

if not managed.

Contamination of the soils (both in-situ and stockpiled) by dirty water runoff from the roads, dust

fallout and the spillage of hydrocarbons, reagents and other contaminants will impact negatively

on the soils environment.

In addition, the potential for de-nutrification of the stockpiled soils due to excessive through flow

of rain water on unconsolidated and poorly protected soils and the flushing of the nutrient pool

is a probability if not managed.

In summary, the operation of the Conveyor system will probably result in:

The sterilization of the soil resource on which the facility is constructed. This will be an

on-going loss for the duration of the operation and until decommissioning of the

facilities;

The creation of dust and the possible loss (erosion) of utilizable soil down-wind and/or

downstream;

The compaction of the in-situ and stored soils and the potential loss of the utilizable

resource as a result;

The contamination of the soils (in-situ and stored) by dirty water run-off and/or spillage

of hydrocarbons and raw material;

Contamination of soils from the use of dirty water for road maintenance and irrigation of

the stockpile/stored vegetation;

Sterilization and loss of soil nutrient pool, organic carbon stores and fertility of stored

soils during the extended time in storage;

Impact on soil structure and soil water balance.

Un-managed soil stockpiles and soil that is left uncovered/unprotected will be lost to wind and

water erosion, will loss the all-important, albeit poor nutrient content and organic carbon stores

(fertility), and will be prone to compaction.

Of a positive impact, will be the rehabilitation of the temporary infrastructure used during the

start-up and construction phase.

Impact Significance

The result of the operations associated with the Conveyor on the soil resource will have a

negative intensity potential that is moderate to low, that will last for the life of the operation and

should be considered permanent to irreversible if not rehabilitated, and will be confined to the

immediate site or immediate vicinity.

In the un-managed scenario the frequency is likely to be continuous resulting in a significance

rating of moderate.



Draft Report 23


It is inevitable that some of the soils will be lost during the operational phase if they are not well

managed and a mitigation plan is not made part of the general maintenance and management

schedule.

The impacts on the soils will be mitigated with management procedures including:

Minimisation of the area to be impacted (eroded, compacted, sterilized or de-

nutrified);

Timeous replacement of the soils so as to minimise/reduce the area of affect and

disturbance – any areas that are no longer needed (temporary access routes etc.);

Effective soil cover and adequate protection from wind (dust) and dirty water

contamination – vegetate and/or rock cladding and construction of adequate

drainage;

Regular servicing of all road and utility maintenance vehicles;

Regular cleaning and maintenance of drains and runoff areas, and storm water

control facilities;

Containment and management of accidental spillage (prevision for “Quick Response

Unit” – accidents and environmental incidents;

Soil replacement and the preparation of a seed bed to facilitate and accelerate the

re-vegetation program on rehabilitated and managed areas, to limit potential

erosion on all areas that become available for rehabilitation (temporary servitudes

etc.), and

Soil amelioration (rehabilitated and stockpiled) to enhance the growth capability of

the soils and sustain the soils ability to retain oxygen and nutrients, thus sustaining

vegetative material during the storage stage.

It will be necessary as part of the development plan to maintain the integrity of the stored soils,

so that they are available for rehabilitation during decommissioning and closure. If the soil

quantities and qualities are (utilizable soils) managed through the operational phase,

rehabilitation costs will be reduced and natural attenuation will more easily and readily take

effect, and a sustainable “End Land Use” achieved.

Residual Impact

In the long term (Life of the Conveyor Facility), and if implemented correctly, the above

mitigation measures will reduce the impact on the utilizable soil reserves (erosion,

contamination, sterilization) to a significance rating of low.

However, if the soils are not retained/stored and managed, and a workable management plan is

not implemented the residual impact will definitely incur additional costs and result in the

impacting of secondary areas (Borrow Pits etc.) in order to obtain cover materials for

rehabilitation etc.



Draft Report 24


Table 3.2.2 – Operational Phase – Impact Significance

3.2.3 Decommissioning & Closure Phase

Issue: Net loss of soil volumes and utilization potential due to change in material status

(Physical and Chemical) and loss of nutrient base, and Positive aspects due to

rehabilitation, re-nutrification and stabilization (re-vegetation).

The impacts on the soil resource during the decommissioning and closure phase are both

negative and positive, with:

The loss of the soils original nutrient store and organic carbon due to leaching of the soils

while in storage;

Erosion and de-oxygenation of materials while stockpiled;

Compaction and dust contamination due to vehicle movement while rehabilitating the

area;

Erosion while undertaking the slope stabilization and re-vegetation of disturbed areas;

Contamination of replaced soils by use of dirty water for plant watering and dust

suppression;

Hydrocarbon or chemical spillage from contractor and supply vehicles;

At closure (obtaining of closure certificate from authorities) there will be some

improvement to the effects and impacts.

These will include:

A net improvement to the impacts due to reduction in areas of disturbance and return of

soil utilization potential, uncovering of areas of storage and rehabilitation of compacted

materials;

Stabilization of slopes and resultant reduction in erosion.

Impact Significance

The impact will remain the net loss of the soil resource if no intervention or mitigating strategy is

implemented. The intensity potential will remain moderate to high and negative for all of the

activities during decommissioning phase (rehabilitation and intervention) and closure will not be

possible. This will result in an irreversible impact that is continuous. However, with

interventions and well planned management, there will be moderate intensity potential as the

soils are replaced and fertilization of the soils is implemented after removal of the

infrastructure.



Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 10 1 4 3 18 1 18 MH to H

Managed 10 1 3 2 16 1 16 MH



Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 4 1 1 3 9 1 9 M

Managed 4 1 1 1 7 0.5 3.5 L

Operational Phase - Loss of Resource

Operational Phase - Contamination, Compaction and Erosion



Draft Report 25


Ongoing rehabilitation during the operational (temporary infrastructure) and decommissioning

phases of the linear infrastructure will bring about a net long-term net improvement (positive

impact) on the soils.

The intensity potential of the initial activities during rehabilitation and closure will be moderate

and negative due to the necessity for vehicle movement while removing the demolished

infrastructure and rehabilitating the disturbed footprint(s). Dust will be generated and soil will

probably be contaminated, compacted and eroded to differing extents depending on the degree

of management implemented.

The positive impacts of rehabilitation on the area are the reduction in the footprint of

disturbance, the amelioration of the affected soils and oxygenation of the growing medium, the

stabilizing of slopes and the re-vegetation of disturbed areas.

Residual Impacts

On closure of the Conveyor Route the long-term negative impact on the soils will be reduced

from a significance ranking of moderate to low if the management plan set out in the

Environmental Management Plan is effectively implemented, and will have an overall net

negative rating, albeit that the impacts have reduced substantially by the time a closure

certificate is obtained.

Table 3.2.3a – Decommissioning Phase – Impact Significance

Re-creation of the ferricrete layer effect (Barrier) will require both environmental as well as

engineering inputs. This conclusion supposes that the utilizable soils will be available (had been

stripped and stored), and the ferricrete layer removed and stored separately.

Chemical amelioration of the soils will possibly have a low but positive impact on the nutrient

status (only) of the soils in the medium term.

Table 3.2.3b – Closure Phase – Impact Significance



Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 4 1 2 3 10 0.5 5 L

Managed 4 1 2 2 9 0.5 4.5 L



Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 2 1 2 3 8 1 8 M

Managed 2 1 2 2 7 0.5 3.5 L

Decommissioning Phase - Compaction, Contamination and Erosion

Decommissioning Phase - Reinstatment of Resource


Potenti a lEx tent Durati on Frequency

Impact

Intensi ty



Unmanaged 2 1 5 3 11 0.2 2.2 L

Managed 7 1 5 2 15 0.5 7.5 M to L

Closure Phase - Care and Maintenance



Draft Report 26


4. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN – SERVICES CORRIDOR

In accordance with the Equator Principles, and the concept of sustainability, it is incumbent on any developer to not only assess and understand the possible impacts that a development might cause, but to also propose and table management measures that will aid in minimising and were possible mitigate the effects. The management of the natural resources (soils and land capability) have been assessed on a phased basis (construction, operation and decommissioning/closure) in keeping with the impact assessment (EIA) philosophy, while the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been designed as a working plan and utilization guide for soil and land management. The results tabled are based on the site specific soil characterisation and classification in conjunction with the geomorphology (topography, altitude, attitude, climate and ground roughness) of the sites that will be impacted or affected. The plan gives recommendations on the stripping and handling of the soils throughout the life of the development along with recommendations for the utilization of the soils for rehabilitation at closure. It has been assumed that all infrastructure will be removed and that the areas affected will be returned to as close as possible their pre-construction state (topographic levels, wilderness/conservation or low intensity grazing (wildlife) status – Refer to the Chamber of Mines Land Classification System (Refer to Section 2 - Table 2.2.1 of the Baseline Study).

The concept of stripping and storage of all “Utilizable” soil is recommended as a minimum

requirement and as part of the overall Soil Utilization philosophy.

In terms of the “Minimum Requirements”, usable or utilizable soil is defined here as all soil

above an agreed subterranean cut-off depth defined by the project soil scientist, and will vary

for different forms of soil encountered in a project area and the type of project being

considered. It does not differentiate between topsoil (orthic horizon) and other subsoil horizons

necessarily.

The following soil utilization guidelines (all be they generic) should be adhered to wherever

possible:

Over areas of deep excavation where the majority or all of the soil profile is to be

impacted) strip all usable soil as defined (700mm) in terms of the soil classification

and stockpile as berms or low, terraced dumps. Alluvial soils should be stockpiled

separately from the colluvial (shallower) and in-situ derived materials, which in turn

should be stored separately from any calcrete/ferricrete material, while the soft

overburden is stored as a separate unit in defined dumps/berms of less than 3m in

height. Protect from contamination and erosion by rock cladding or vegetation cover

and adequate drainage of surface runoff.

At rehabilitation replace the soft overburden followed by the calcrete, compact

followed by the soil to appropriate soil depths, and cover areas to achieve an

appropriate topographic aspect and attitude to achieve a free draining landscape as

close as possible the pre-mining/construction land capability rating.

Over areas planned for less invasive structures (Offices, Workshops etc.) and any

material stockpile or storage, strip the top 500 mm of usable soil over all affected

areas including terraces and strip remaining usable soil and calcrete (if present in

profile) where founding conditions require further soil removal.



Draft Report 27


Store the soil in stockpiles or berms of not more than 1.5 m around infrastructure area

ready for closure rehabilitation purposes. Stockpile hydromorphic (wet) soils separately

from the dry materials, and the “calcrete” separately from all other materials.

Protect all stockpiles from water and wind erosion (loss of materials) and

contamination by dust and runoff water. Clad stockpiles with larger rock or vegetate

the stored materials.

At closure/rehabilitation, remove all large boulders and gravel from the rehabilitated

landscape and place at the base/bottom of the open pit or rehabilitation profile so that

they do not interfere with the tillage and cultivation of the final surface. Remove

foundations to a maximum depth of 1m. Replace soil to appropriate soil depths, and

over disturbed areas and in appropriate topographic position to achieve pre-

development land capability and land form where possible.

Before rehabilitation remove all gravel and other rocky material and recycle as

construction material or place in open voids. Remove foundations to a maximum depth

of 1m. Replace soil to appropriate soil depths and in appropriate topographic position

so as to achieve pre-mining land capability. Protect the stored materials from erosion

and contamination using vegetation or rock cladding.

Over areas to be utilized for General Access Roads (light delivery vehicles), Laydown

Pads and any Conveyencing servitudes strip the top 150 mm of usable soil over all

affected areas and stockpile in longitudinal stockpile or berms upslope of the facilities.

Protect from erosion and contamination.

4.1 Construction Phase

The construction methods and final end land use are important in deciding if the utilizable soils need to be stripped and retained, and ultimately how much of the materials will be needed for the rehabilitation (stripping volumes). Failure to remove and store the utilizable materials will result in the permanent loss of the growth medium. Making provision for retention of utilizable material for the decommissioning and/or during rehabilitation will not only save significant costs at closure, but will ensure that additional impacts to the environment do not occur. Table 4.1 is a summary of the soil utilization guide

proposed to aid in soil management during the construction phase.

The depths of utilizable materials vary between 150mm and greater than 1,500mm. However,

due to the shallow soil depths on the more rocky areas, albeit that these are a small percentage

of the overall area, it is recommended that sufficient materials are removed from the areas

were the soil depths are present and do exist, so that the shallow areas can be adequately

resorted during rehabilitation and at closure.

The majority of the area proposed for the Conveyor corridor (western route) is considered as

moderate to low sensitivity and are sufficiently similar that they can be stored as one soil group.

The sensitive soils and wet based materials should not be compromised.



Draft Report 28


Table 4.1 Describes the proposed utilization of the soils during the construction phase.

Table 4.1 – Construction Phase – Soil Utilization Plan

Phase Step Factors to Consider Comments

Stripping will only occur where soils are to be disturbed by activities that are

described in the design report, and where a clearly defined end rehabilitation use

for the stripped soil has been identified.

It is recommened that all vegetation is stripped and stored as part of the utilizable

soil. However, the requirements for moving and preserving fauna and flora

according to the biodiversity action plan should be consulted.

Handling

Soils will be handled in dry weather conditions so as to cause as little compaction as

possible. Utilizable soil (Topsoil and upper portion of subsoil B2/1) must be

removed and stockpiled separately from the lower "B" horizon, with the ferricrete

layer being seperated from the soft/decomposed rock, and wet based soils

seperated from the dry soils if they are to be impacted.

Stripping

The "Utilizable" soil will be stripped to a depth of 700mm or until hard

rock/ferricrete is encountered. These soils will be stockpiled together with any

vegetation cover present (only large vegetation to be removed prior to stripping).

The total stripped depth should be 700mm, wherever possible.

Location

Stockpiling areas will be identified in close proximity to the source of the soil to

limit handling and to promote reuse of soils in the correct areas. All stockpiles will

be founded on stabilized and well engineered "pads"

Designation of AreasSoils stockpiles will be demarcated, and clearly marked to identify both the soil

type and the intended area of rehabilitation.

Delineation of areas to be stripped

Reference to biodiversity action plan

Stripping and

Handling of soils

Delineation of

Stockpiling areas

Co

nst

ruct

ion

This “Soil Utilization Plan” is intimately linked to the “development plan”, and it should be understood that if the plan of construction changes, these

recommendations will probably have to change as well.



Draft Report 29


4.2 Operational Phase

The operational phase will see very little change in the development requirements, with the

footprint of disturbance remaining constant, albeit that the temporary infrastructure might

become redundant and rehabilitation of these features might be possible.

Maintenance and care of the soil and land resources will be the main management activity and

objective required during the operational phase. Management of material loss, compaction and

contamination are the main issues of consideration. Table 4.2 details recommendations for the

care and maintenance of the resource during the operational phase.

The semi-arid to arid climate and unique character of the soils in these areas require that the

site specific and unique natural phenomena should be used to the advantage of the project.

Working with or on the differing soil materials (all of which occur within the areas that are to be

disturbed) will require better than average management and careful planning if rehabilitation is

to be successful, and it is important that the sensitive and highly sensitive materials are avoided

wherever possible from the outset.

Care in removal and stockpiling or storage of the “Utilizable” soils, and protection of materials

which are derived from the “hardpan ferricrete” layer is imperative to the success of sustainable

rehabilitation in these areas, with the soil water (near surface water) held within the profile by

the ferricrete layer believed to be integral to the success of the biodiversity and ecological

systems.



Draft Report 30


Table 4.2 - Operational Phase – Soil Conservation Plan


Vegetation

establishment and

erosion control

Enhanced growth of vegetation on the Soil Stockpiles and berms will be promoted

(e.g. by means of watering and/or fertilisation), or a system of rock cladding will be

employed. The purpose of this exercise will be to protect the soils and combat

erosion by water and wind.

Storm Water ControlStockpiles will be established/engineered with storm water diversion berms in

place to prevent run off erosion.

Stockpile Height and

Slope Stability

Soil stockpile and berm heights will be restricted where possible to <1.5m so as to

avoid compaction and damage to the soil seed pool. Where stockpiles higher than

1.5m cannot be avoided, these will be benched to a maximum height of 15m. Each

bench should ideally be 1.5m high and 2m wide. For storage periods greater than 3

years, vegetative (vetiver hedges and native grass species - refer to Appendix 1) or

rock cover will be essential, and should be encouraged using fertilization and

induced seeding with water and/or the placement of waste rock. The stockpile side

slopes should be stabilized at a slope of 1 in 6. This will promote vegetation growth

and reduce run-off related erosion.

Waste

Only inert waste rock material will be placed on the soil stockpiles if the vegetative

growth is impractical or not viable (due to lack of water for irrigation etc.). This will

aid in protecting the stockpiles from wind and water erosion until the natural

vegetative cover can take effect.

VehiclesEquipment, human and animal movement on the soil stockpiles will be limited to

avoid topsoil compaction and subsequent damage to the soils and seedbank.

Op

era

tio

n

Stockpile

management



Draft Report 31


4.3 Decommissioning and Closure

The decommissioning and closure phase will see:

The removal of all infrastructure;

The demolishing of all concrete slabs and ripping of any hard surfaces;

The backfilling of any open voids and deep foundations and the reconstruction of the

required barrier layer (compaction) wherever feasible and possible;

Topdressing of the disturbed and backfilled areas with the stored “utilizable” soil ready

for re-vegetation;

Fertilization and stabilization of the backfilled materials and final cover materials (soil

and vegetation) and

The landscaping of the replaced soils to be free draining.

There will be an improvement on the soil and land capability environments as the area of

disturbance is reduced, and the soils are returned to a state that can support low intensity

wildlife grazing or sustainable conservation.

Table 4.3 is a summary of the proposed management and mitigation actions recommended



Draft Report 32


Table 4.3 – Decommissioning and Closure Phase – Soil Conservation Plan


Placement of Soils

Stockpiled soil will be used to rehabilitate disturbed sites either ongoing as

disturbed areas become available for rehabilitation and/or at closure. The utilizable

soil (500mm to 700mm) removed during the construction phase, must be

redistributed in a manner that achieves an approximate uniform stable thickness

consistent with the approved post development end land use (Conservation land

capability and/or Low intensity wildlife grazing), and will attain a free draining

surface profile. A minimum layer of 300mm of soil will be replaced.

Fertilization

A representative sampling of the stripped and stockpiled soils will be analysed to

determine the nutrient status and chemistry of the utilizable materials. As a

minimum the following elements will be tested for: EC, CEC, pH, Ca, Mg, K, Na, P,

Zn, Clay% and Organic Carbon. These elements provide the basis for determining

the fertility of soil. based on the analysis, fertilisers will be applied if necessary.

Erosion ControlErosion control measures will be implemented to ensure that the soil is not washed

away and that erosion gulleys do not develop prior to vegetation establishment.

Pollution of Soils In-situ Remediation

If soil (whether stockpiled or in its undisturbed natural state) is polluted, the first

management priority is to treat the pollution by means of in situ bioremediation.

The acceptability of this option must be verified by an appropriate soils expert and

by the local water authority on a case by case basis, before it is implemented.

Off site disposal of

soils.

If in situ treatment is not possible or acceptable then the polluted soil must be

classified according to the Minimum Requirements for the Handling, Classification

and Disposal of Hazardous Waste (Local Dept of Water Affairs) and disposed of at an

appropriate, permitted, off-site waste facility.

Rehabilitation of

Disturbed land &

Restoration of

Soil Utilization

Dec

omm

issi

onin

g &

Clo

sure



Draft Report 33


5 MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE

Nutrient requirements reported herein are based on the monitoring and sampling of the soils at

the time of the baseline survey. These values will definitely alter during storage and will need to

be re-evaluated before being used during rehabilitation. Ongoing evaluation of the nutrient

status of the growth medium will be needed throughout the life of the project and into the

rehabilitation phase.

During the rehabilitation exercise preliminary soil quality monitoring should be carried out to

accurately determine the fertilizer requirements that will be needed. Additional soil sampling

should also be carried out annually until the levels of nutrients, specifically magnesium,

phosphorus and potassium, are at the required levels for sustainable growth. Once the desired

nutritional status has been achieved, it is recommended that the interval between sampling is

increased. An annual environmental audit should be undertaken. If growth problems develop,

ad hoc, sampling should be carried out to determine the problem.

Monitoring should always be carried out at the same time of the year and at least six weeks

after the last application of fertilizer.

Soils should be sampled and analysed for the following parameters:

pH (H2O) Phosphorus (Bray I)

Electrical conductivity Calcium mg/kg

Cation exchange capacity Sodium mg/kg;

Magnesium mg/kg; Potassium mg/kg Zinc mg/kg;

Clay Organic matter content (C %)

The following maintenance is recommended:

The area must be fenced, and all animals kept off the area until the vegetation is self-

sustaining;

Newly seeded/planted areas must be protected against compaction and erosion (Vetiver

hedges etc.);

Traffic should be limited were possible while the vegetation is establishing itself;

Plants should be watered and weeded as required on a regular and managed basis were

possible and practical;

Check for pests and diseases on a regular basis and treat if necessary;

Replace unhealthy or dead plant material;

Fertilise, hydro seeded and grassed areas soon after germination, and

Repair any damage caused by erosion;



Draft Report 34


LIST OF REFERENCES

Taxonomic Soil Classification System (Mac Vicar et al, 2nd edition 1991)

The Soil Erodibility Nomograph (Wischmeier et al, 1971)

Vetiver Grass for Soil and Water Conservation, Land Rehabilitation, and Embankment

Stabilization – A collection of papers and newsletters compiled by the Vetiver Network – Richard

G. Grimshaw (OBE) and Larisa Helfer - The World Bank – Washington DC – 1995

The South Africa Vetiver Network – Institute of Natural Resources – Scottsville – Mr. D. Hay and

J. McCosh1987 to present.

Chamber of Mines of South Africa, 1981. Guidelines for the rehabilitation of land disturbed by

surface coal mining in South Africa. Johannesburg.

Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, 1998. Environmental impact management.

Implementation of sections 21, 22 and 26 of the Environmental Conservation Act, 1989,

Pretoria: Government Printer (1998).

Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs, 1992. Aide-Memoire for the preparation of

Environmental Management Programme Reports for prospecting and Mining. Pretoria.

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, 2003. A practical field procedure for the identification

and delineation of wetlands and riparian areas, DWAF, Pretoria.

Non-Affiliated Soil Analysis Working Committee, 1991. Methods of soil analysis. SSSSA, Pretoria.

Soil Classification Working Group, 1991. Soil classification. A taxonomic system for South Africa.

Institute for Soil, Climate and Water, Pretoria.

Van der Watt, H.v.H and Van Rooyen T. H, 1990. A glossary of soil science, Pretoria: Soil Science

Society of South Africa (1990).



Draft Report 35


APPENDIX 1

VETIVER GRASS



Draft Report 36


APPENDIX 2

STUDY MAPS AND PLANS

Documents

Appendix H: Soil Specialist Assessment - Phola/3... · one or more of the nutrient elements essential for the growth and reproduction of plants. Fine sand: (1) A soil separate consisting