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P O Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 Tel 015 – 307 3606 Fax 015 – 307 3080 [email protected]
www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
APPLICANT: INDIGO FRUIT FARMING – NARANJA DIVISION
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT:
PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL
353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, FETAKGOMO GREATER TUBATSE MUNICIPALITY, LIMPOPO
PROVINCE
31 OCTOBER 2017
Telephone: 015 307 3606 / 083 339 2731
Fax: 015 307 3080 / 086 527 0012
E-mail: [email protected]
Postal address: PO Box 1935, Tzaneen, 0850
Website: www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
2
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 6
2. SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................ 6
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................ 8
4. PROJECT MOTIVATION, NEED AND DESIRABILITY ............................................................................... 8
4.1. Motivation, need and desirability of the overall project .......................................................................8
4.2. Motivation for selected preferred alternatives ......................................................................................9
5. INVESTIGATION OF ALTERNATIVES ........................................................................................................ 9
5.1. Project Alternatives ...............................................................................................................................9
5.2. Site and Layout Alternatives .................................................................................................................9
5.3. Technology Alternatives .......................................................................................................................9
5.4. No-go Alternative ...............................................................................................................................10
6. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION .................................................................................................................... 11
6.1. Environmental Legislation ..................................................................................................................11
6.1.1. National Environmental Management Act, EIA Regulations (2014) ......................................... 11
6.1.2. National Water Act (1998) .......................................................................................................... 12
6.2. National Forests Act (1998) and Limpopo Environmental Management Act (2003) .........................12
6.3. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (1983) ...........................................................................12
6.4. Other Legislation .................................................................................................................................12
6.5. Municipal and provincial planning tools .............................................................................................13
6.5.1. Fetakgomo – Greater Tubatse Municipality – Integrated Development Plan ............................. 13
6.5.2. Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (2013) ............................................................................ 14
6.5.3. Protected areas ............................................................................................................................ 14
6.5.4. National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas ......................................................................... 15
7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................... 15
8. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION – BIO-PHYSICAL INVESTIGATIONS ....................... 17
8.1. Climate ................................................................................................................................................17
8.1.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 17
8.1.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 17
8.2. Topography, Soils, Agriculture and Geology .....................................................................................17
8.4. Ecology ...............................................................................................................................................21
8.4.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 21
8.4.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 23
9. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION – ................................................................................... 24
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INVESTIGATIONS ............................................................................................................ 24
9.1. Heritage Assessment ...........................................................................................................................24
9.2. Social Aspects .....................................................................................................................................25
9.2.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 25
Information adapted from consolidated Fetakgomo- Greater Tubatse Local Municipality (FGTLM)
Integrated Development Plan (IDP) 2016/17 -2018/2021. ......................................................................... 25
9.2.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 27
9.3. Visual Aspects.....................................................................................................................................27
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
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9.3.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 27
9.3.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 28
9.4. Noise ...................................................................................................................................................28
9.4.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 28
9.4.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 28
9.5. Indirect and cumulative impacts .........................................................................................................29
10. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ....................................................................................................... 30
10.1. Advertisement of Commencement of EIA Process / I&AP registration period ..............................30
10.2. Public Meeting ................................................................................................................................30
10.3. Issues Raised ...................................................................................................................................30
10.4. Availability of Consultative ESR for Review and Comment..........................................................30
11. PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ..................................................... 31
11.1. Approach to Undertaking the Impact Assessment Phase of the Project .........................................31
11.2. Assessments to be conducted as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment phase ..................31
11.3. Assessment of impacts ....................................................................................................................32
11.4. Public Participation Process ............................................................................................................33
11.4.1. Public Meeting ............................................................................................................................ 33
11.4.2. Issues Trail .................................................................................................................................. 34
11.4.3. Availability of reports for public review ..................................................................................... 34
11.5. Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Management Programme ................................34
11.5.1. Public Review of the consultative EIR and EMPR ..................................................................... 34
11.5.2. Authority Review of the EIR and EMPR .................................................................................... 35
11.6. Authorisation ...................................................................................................................................35
11.7. Agreement with I&APs as to Plan of Study ....................................................................................35
12. CONCLUSIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 35
13. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................ 39
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
4
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Site plans and maps
Appendix B: Site photographs
Appendix C: LDEDET pre-application meeting
Appendix D: I&AP Comments and Correspondence
Appendix E: Advertisement of commencement of EIA process and first public comment
period
Appendix F: Advertisement of availability of consultation Environmental Scoping Report for public review
and comment
Appendix G: Environmental Management Programme
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS:
DWS Department of Water and Sanitation
EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner
ECO Environmental Control Officer
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EMPR Environmental Management Programme
ESR Environmental Scoping Report
FGTLM Fetakgomo- Greater Tubatse Municipality
IBA Important Bird Area
Ha Hectare
HIA Heritage Impact Assessment
I&AP Interested and/or Affected Party
LDEDET Limpopo Department of Economic Development and Environmental Tourism
LEMA Limpopo Environmental Management Act (2003)
MAE Mean Annual Evaporation
MAMSL Metres Above Mean Sea Level
MAP Mean Average Precipitation
NEMA National Environmental Management Act (1998)
NWA National Water Act (1998)
WUL Water Use Licence
WULA Water Use Licence Application
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
5
CONTACT DETAILS
Environmental Impact Assessment Practitioner
Polygon Environmental Planning CC
Contact: Ms. Louise Agenbag
Tel.: 015 307 3606 / 083 339 2731
Fax: 015 307 3080
E-mail: [email protected]
Postal address: PO Box 1935, Tzaneen, 0850
Web: www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
EAP’s Qualifications (Louise Agenbag):
- BSc (Hons) Geography (cum laude), University of Pretoria
- BSc Environmental Sciences (cum laude), University of Pretoria
- Certificate in Environmental Management Systems (ISO14001:2004), North-West University,
Potchefstroom campus
- Completed short courses in Water Use Authorisation and Project Management
- More than 11 years’ experience in environmental impact assessment and management (2005 to
current), 9 of which at management level (2007 to current)
- Member of IWMSA (Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa) and IAIAsa (International
Association for Impact Assessment, South African chapter)
Applicant
Indigo Fruit Farming (Pty) Ltd – Naranja division
Contact: Mr Leon Lotter
Tel.: 013 231 7940 / 078 060 5922
E-mail: [email protected]
Environmental Authority
Department of Economic Development, Environment & Tourism (LDEDET)
Contact: Mr. Rhulani Mthombeni
Tel.: 015 290 7057
Fax: 015 295 5015
E-mail: [email protected]
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
6
1. INTRODUCTION
Polygon Environmental Planning has been appointed by Indigo Fruit Farming (Pty) Ltd to conduct an
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed expansion of citrus orchards on Portion 3 of the farm
Boerboomkraal 353-KT near Burgersfort, in the Fetakgomo-Greater Tubatse Municipality, Limpopo Province.
This Environmental Scoping Report (ESR) was compiled following the scoping-phase investigations and public
participation, and is currently available for public review and comment, from 31 October to 30 November 2017.
Following the comment period, all comments will be incorporated into the final ESR, which will then be submitted
to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development and Environmental Tourism (LDEDET).
2. SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
2.1. Location
The project is proposed on Portion 3 of the farm Boerboomkraal 353-KT, near Burgersfort (Figure 2.1). The site
is under the jurisdiction of the Fetakgomo- Greater Tubatse Municipality. The property is 481.8ha in extent.
Figure 2.1: 1:50 000 topocadastral map of the location
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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2.2. Site description
The property is currently occupied by existing pivots and agricultural fields, pack house and storage area, a
shooting range and the largest section by virgin land with indigenous vegetation. Some of the virgin areas
(uncultivated for more than 10 years) proposed for the citrus orchard expansion appear to have been disturbed
more than 14 years ago and no longer represent natural undisturbed locations observed elsewhere on the farm.
Figure 2.1 Aerial photograph showing the location of the Farm.
Figure 2.2: Aerial photograph of the Farm, the proposed cultivation sites are outlined in yellow.
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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The following table provides general information pertaining to the site.
Table 1.1: General site information
District Sekhukhune District
Local Municipality Fetakgomo-Greater Tubatse Municipality
Property description Remaining Extent of Portion 3 of the farm Boerboomkraal 353-KT
Surveyor-General code T0KT00000000035300003
Nearest town Burgersfort
Coordinates 24° 50' 03.24" S and 30° 21' 41.69" E
Current land use Agriculture
Natural areas
Surrounding land use Agriculture
Natural areas
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The applicant proposes the establishment of 33ha of citrus on virgin land on the Remaining extent of portion 3
of the Farm Boerboomskraal 353-KT, as well as. The area where they wish to establish the orchards is virgin
land which has not been uncultivated for more than 10 years and since then the proposed areas have developed
into mosaics of relatively natural appearing areas as well as more disturbed areas where compacted and eroded
soil is limiting the establishment of natural elements and promoting the spread of alien and invasive vegetation
species.
Drip irrigation is proposed to be installed, as this is the most efficient method of irrigation in terms of minimising
the volume of water used.
Fruit to be produced on this farm will be packed in the applicant’s nearby existing packhouse, from where it will
be distributed locally and exported.
4. PROJECT MOTIVATION, NEED AND DESIRABILITY
4.1. Motivation, need and desirability of the overall project
The proposed project keeps in line with the surrounding land-use in the area. The potential for citrus cultivation
is apparent as many large-scale commercial citrus developments already occupy the general location. The soil
and climate are suited to citrus cultivation, and the proposed orchards are anticipated to yield high volumes of
quality fruit for export and domestic distribution. This is likely to make a significant contribution to job creation,
directly on the farm, and indirectly will likely contribute to job security of labourers who are employed at the
packhouse operated by the applicant. By increasing the disposable income of community members working on
the farms growth is expected to occur and is likely to contribute to local economic development, as the workers
are likely to spend most of their disposable income at local businesses.
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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The specialist investigations found the proposed project to be potentially compatible with the proposed site (with
layout adjusted to respect buffer zones around sensitive features), provided that recommended impact mitigation
measures are implemented. No fatal flaws have been identified and it is anticipated that impacts can be
addressed satisfactorily.
4.2. Motivation for selected preferred alternatives
The farm was purchased as it was one of the only ones for sale in the area at that stage, and the applicant
wished to expand their cultivation. No alternative farms were considered. The areas on the site that were
selected for proposed cultivation were selected because they had previously been disturbed, are easily
accessible and fairly level. Furthermore, Naranja Packers, which is another division of indigo Fruit Farming, is
located approximately 10km away from the property and the citrus from this farm will be sent there for packing.
The proximity of Indigo’s Fruit Farming’s existing farm operations indicate that all the necessary agricultural
support services are available in the area and would ensure that fresh picked citrus would be rapidly processed
with limited logistical effort.
Lastly, the climatic conditions and the soil in the area are suited for citrus production and an existing water
allocation with sufficient volume to irrigate the proposed orchards is available for the property.
5. INVESTIGATION OF ALTERNATIVES
5.1. Project Alternatives
No project alternatives were investigated within the ambit of this EIA, as the applicant’s purpose with the project
is to expand the citrus cultivation which they are already doing on several other nearby properties. The project
proposal is furthermore in line with surrounding land use, which mostly consists of agriculture and associated
infrastructure. The applicant also already has the necessary processes, infrastructure and expertise in the area,
which the proposed new orchards can make use of.
5.2. Site and Layout Alternatives
wished to expand their cultivation. No alternative farms were considered. The areas on the site that were
selected for proposed cultivation were selected because they had previously been disturbed, are easily
accessible and fairly level. Furthermore, Naranja Packers, which is another division of indigo Fruit Farming, is
located approximately 10km away from the property and the citrus from this farm will be sent there for packing.
The proximity of Indigo’s Fruit Farming’s existing farm operations indicate that all the necessary agricultural
support services are available in the area and would ensure that fresh picked citrus would be rapidly processed
with limited logistical effort.
Lastly, the climatic conditions and the soil in the area are suited for citrus production and an existing water
allocation with sufficient volume to irrigate the proposed orchards is available for the property.
5.3. Technology Alternatives
No technological alternatives have been investigated for the project. The applicant’s core business has for many
years been citrus cultivation, and they have standardised operations to the methods and practices they have
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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found to be most efficient. For instance, drip irrigation has been found to be most efficient in terms of minimising
water wastage.
5.4. No-go Alternative
The ‘no-go’ alternative refers to the scenario in which the proposed activity does not take place and the site
remains as it is.
If the no-go alternative is taken, the impacts that can be anticipated to be associated with the proposed cultivation
would not come to pass and the conditions and trends on the property can be expected to remain as per the
status quo. Impacts that can be expected to be experienced in case of the no-go alternative being selected
include the following:
Table 5.1: Potential impacts that may be associated with the no-go option
POTENTIAL IMPACT STATUS EXTENT MAGNITUDE LIKELIHOOD SIGNIFICANCE
Bio-physical aspects
Soil erosion and siltation
remain the same
Neutral Local Medium Possible Low
Topography remains
unchanged
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Insignificant
Unused agricultural potential Neutral Local Medium Definite Medium
No ingress of foreign matter
into streams and wetlands, or
concomitant impacts on fauna
and flora
Neutral Local Unknown Possible Low
No increase in water
abstraction rates, though still
within existing allocation
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Medium
Water contamination and/or
eutrophication due to run-off of
pesticides, fertilizers, etc
Neutral Local Low Possible Low
Sediment movement /
transportation within the
system remains unchanged
Neutral Local Medium Possible Low
Water quality remains
unchanged
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low
Habitat remains intact Neutral Local Low Definite Medium
No veld fire risk associated with
construction
Neutral Local Very low Possible Very Low
No contribution to further
spreading of alien plant species
or encroachment by indigenous
trees due to disturbance of
natural vegetation
Neutral Local Medium Definite Low
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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6. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION
6.1. Environmental Legislation
6.1.1. National Environmental Management Act, EIA Regulations (2014)
The EIA Regulations (2014, as amended), published in terms of section 24(5) read with section 44 of the National
Environmental Management Act (NEMA, Act No. 107 of 1998), stipulate that an EIA process is required to be
undertaken for the proposed project (Table 6.1).
Table 6.1: Applicable Environmental Legislation
Table 6.1: Applicable Environmental Legislation
ACTIVITY
NR.
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
Listing Notice 2
15 The clearance of an area of 20ha or more of indigenous vegetation, excluding where such
clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for (i) the undertaking of a linear activity,
No disruption of the activities of
fauna on and around the site
Neutral Local Very low Possible Very low
Socio-economic aspects
No supporting local businesses
through local procurement of
materials, equipment &
services (construction phase)
Neutral Local Low-medium Highly
probable
Low-medium
No job creation (construction
phase), whether direct or
indirect
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low-medium
No contribution to operational-
phase job creation and job
security
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low-medium
No contribution to local
economy (operational phase)
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Medium
No visual impact of
construction activities and site
clearing
Neutral Local Low Definite Low
No noise associated with
construction activities and
heavy vehicles during
construction
Neutral Local Very low Highly
probable
Very low
No risk to possible undetected /
subterranean heritage
resources
Neutral Local Very low Improbable Very low
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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or (ii) maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management
plan.
For the clearance of approximately 33ha of indigenous vegetation for establishment of
citrus orchards.
6.1.2. National Water Act (1998)
Naranja have an existing water use allocation from the Lower Spekboomriver Irrigation Board which allows them
to irrigate a total of 85 ha of land.
A Water Use Licence Application (WULA) will be submitted to DWS in terms of the National Water Act (NWA,
Act No. 36 of 1998) for the Section 21(c) and (i) water uses which will be triggered by the development of
orchards within 100m of a watercourse and within 500m of a wetland, as highlighted below:
Table 6.2: Applicable water uses in terms of the National Water Act (1998)
Section Description of Water Use Relevant Activity
21(c) Impeding or diverting the flow of water
in a watercourse.
Development of orchards within 100m of a
watercourse and within 500m of a wetland.
21(i) Altering the beds, banks, course or
characteristics of a watercourse.
Development of orchards within 100m of a
watercourse and within 500m of a wetland.
6.2. National Forests Act (1998) and Limpopo Environmental Management Act (2003)
Should specimens be destroyed of any plant species that are protected in terms of the National Forests Act
and/or the Limpopo Environmental Management Act (LEMA), permits will be required from the Department of
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and/or LDEDET.
Protected species should be preserved as far as possible. Large specimens of trees, particularly of protected
species, will be incorporated into the orchard development as far as possible.
6.3. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (1983)
A cultivation permit application will be submitted to DAFF’s Agriculture directorate for the proposed cultivation
of virgin land, viz. land that has not been cultivated in the past 10 years.
6.4. Other Legislation
Table 6.3: Other applicable legislation
LEGISLATION RELEVANT
SECTIONS PERTAINS TO
The Constitution Act (No 108 of
1996)
Chapter 2,
Section 24
Bill of Rights: Environmental rights
Fencing Act (No 31 of 1963) Section 17 Clearing of bush for fencing
Fertilizers, Farm Feeds,
Agricultural Remedies and Stock
Remedies Act (No 36 of 1947)
Sections 3 – 10 Control of the use of pesticides, herbicides and
fertilizers, and precautions to protect workers in this
regard
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Limpopo Environmental
Management Act
Schedule 2, 3,
11 and 12
Lists of protected animals and plants
National Environmental
Management: Air Quality Act
(No 39 of 2004)
Section 32 Control of dust
Section 34 Control of noise
Section 35 Control of offensive odours
National Environmental
Management: Biodiversity Act
(No 10 of 2004)
Section 57 Restricted activities involving listed threatened or
protected species
Sections 65–69 Regulation of activities involving alien species
Sections 71, 73
and 75
Regulation of activities involving invasive species
National Environmental
Management: Waste
Amendment Act (No 26 of 2014)
Chapter 4, Part
4 Waste management activities
Chapter 5 Licensing of waste management activities
Chapter 5 Institutional and planning matters
Chapter 7 Compliance and enforcement
National Heritage Resources Act
(No 25 of 1999)
Section 34 Protection of structures older than 60 years
Section 35 Protection of archaeological and palaeontological
sites and material as well as meteorites
Section 36 Conservation of burial grounds and graves
National Forests Act (No 84 of
1998), as amended by the
Forestry Laws Amendment Act
(No 35 of 2005) and Regulations
(GN466 of 2009)
Section 7 Prohibition on destruction of trees in natural forests
Sections 12–16 Declaration of trees, groups of trees, woodlands or
tree species as protected
Section 17 Declaration of controlled forest areas
National Water Act (No 36 of
1998)
Section 19 Prevention and remedying effects of pollution,
particularly where pollution of a water resource
occurs or might occur as a result of activities on land
Section 20 Control of pollution of water resources following an
emergency incident
Chapter 4
(Sections 21-55)
Governs water use
Occupational Health and Safety
Act (No 85 of 1993)
Section 8 General duties of employers to their employees
Section 9 General duties of employers and self-employed
persons to persons other than their employees
6.5. Municipal and provincial planning tools
6.5.1. Fetakgomo – Greater Tubatse Municipality – Integrated Development Plan
Two areas in the municipal area have been identified as highly sensitive in terms of environment. The first lies
on the northern boundary of the region along the Olifants River stretching from the villages of Maretlwaneng and
Makoloto up to Morathong along the R527 to Hoedspruit. The area is endowed with forestry, deep gorges and
waterfalls and has been identified as the very sensitive environment area due to these features. The second is
the area bordered by the R36 to Hoedspruit on the west, by R532 to Bouke’s Luck on the south and the study
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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area boundary on the north east has been identified as one of the most sensitive area. These will not be
affected by the proposed project.
6.5.2. Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (2013)
According to the Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (2013), the proposed development site is situated within
a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA2). Other parts of the property, which are not proposed to be developed, are
classified as CBA1.
Figure 6.2: Extract from Limpopo Conservation Plan
6.5.3. Protected areas
The property was declared as a protected area called Kasma Private Nature Reserve in 1969. Meetings have
been undertaken with LDEDET’s Biodiversity, Protected Areas and EIM divisions regarding possible
deproclamation of the reserve and proclamation of a new reserve containing the undeveloped portions of this
property as well as undeveloped portions of some of the applicant’s other properties in the area. This process
is taking place while the EIA is proceeding simultaneously.
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION OF CITRUS ORCHARDS ON PORTION 3 OF THE FARM BOERBOOMKRAAL 353-KT NEAR BURGERSFORT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
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6.5.4. National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas
The site falls within an upstream management area in terms of the National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority
Areas (NFEPA) map. The Watervals River forms the northern boundary of the property, and confluences with
the Spekboom River at the property’s north-eastern corner.
Figure 6.3: Extract from the NFEPA map (BGIS, 2017).
7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
Potential impacts were scored on the following basis:
• Status:
- Positive – the proposed project is to have a positive impact in terms of the particular parameter;
- Negative – the proposed project is to have a negative impact in terms of the particular parameter;
- Neutral – the proposed project is to have neither a positive nor a negative impact in terms of the
particular parameter.
• Extent:
- Local – the impact is to be felt on the site and in its immediate surroundings, up to a radius of 50km from
the site;
- Sub-regional – the impact is to be felt at a distance of up to 100km from the site;
- Regional – the impact is to be felt in the Limpopo Province;
- National – the impact is to be felt across provincial boundaries.
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• Duration:
Refers to the period of time over which impacts can be expected to be experienced.
- Short term – 0 to 5 years;
- Medium term – more than 5 years, up to 15 years;
- Long term – more than 15 years;
- Permanent – the impact is irreversible.
• Magnitude:
Refers to the intensity of the potential impact, if it is experienced.
- Negligible – the impact will barely be felt, if at all. No mitigation required;
- Low – the parameter will only be affected to a small extent by the proposed project. No mitigation
required, but monitoring is recommended;
- Medium – the parameter will be affected by the proposed project, but functions in terms of the parameter
can still continue. Mitigation and monitoring required;
- High – functioning in terms of the parameter will be significantly affected by the impact. Extensive
mitigation and long-term monitoring required.
• Likelihood:
- Improbable – it is unlikely that the impact will be experienced;
- Possible – the impact may be experienced. Monitoring required; mitigation may also be required based
on the type of impact and its significance;
- Highly probable – the impact will most likely be experienced. Monitoring and mitigation required based
on the type of impact and its significance in order to reduce the probability of the impact occurring and/or
to reduce the magnitude of the impact;
- Definite – the impact will be experienced. Monitoring and mitigation required based on the type of impact
and its significance in order to reduce the probability of the impact occurring and/or to reduce the
magnitude of the impact.
• Significance:
Significance is based on a consolidation of the anticipated extent, duration, magnitude and likelihood of the
potential impact.
- Negligible – The impact will barely be felt, if at all. No mitigation required;
- Low – The parameter will only be affected to a small extent by the proposed project. No mitigation
required, but monitoring is recommended;
- Medium – The parameter will be affected by the proposed project, but functions in terms of the
parameter can still continue. Mitigation and monitoring required;
- High – Functioning in terms of the parameter will be significantly affected by the impact. Extensive
mitigation and long-term monitoring required.
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8. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION – BIO-PHYSICAL INVESTIGATIONS
8.1. Climate
8.1.1. Status quo
Climate is hot, with day temperatures ranging between 25ºC and 35 ºC in the summer months. Winters are mild
to warm with day temperatures averaging around 15ºC – 25ºC. Average annual precipitation is 598mm, with the
bulk of rainfall occurring between November and March. Mean annual S-Pan evaporation is 1552mm. Frost
does occur within this area but only, on average, 4 days during the winter months (Mucina & Rutherford 2006).
8.1.2. Potential impacts
The proposed project is not anticipated to have any impact on the local climate.
The climate may impact on the project in that rain during the development phase can cause soil erosion,
particularly on cleared areas which have not been stabilised, if vegetation clearance takes place during the rainy
season.
Table 8.1: Potential impacts in terms of climate
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Rain during the
development phase may
cause soil erosion, which
in turn may also lead to
siltation of the stream
Negative Local Short
term
Medium Possible Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Erosion from bare areas
located within the
orchards may result in
sedimentation of the
watercourses
Negative Local Long
term
Low Probable Medium Low
8.2. Topography, Soils, Agriculture and Geology
8.2.1. Status quo
Topography
The area is located between two perennial rivers; the Watervals and Spekboom Rivers. The northern section of
the farm is fairly flat and slopes gently downwards towards the confluence of the Rivers, which sits at an elevation
of 829 mamsl. This flat to gently sloping area, which occupies the northern third of the property is the region in
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which the orchards have been proposed to be established. The southern part of the site and steep and
mountainous, and therefore not conducive to cultivation.
Soils
According to the National Soils source layer the locations proposed for orchard establishment are located in
areas where soils are red with a high base status. These soils may have restricted depth, excessive drainage
and low natural fertility and are at risk from erosive forces (BGIS, 2017). The land types are mainly Ib, Ae and
Fa (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006).
status.
Agriculture
The agriculture sector in Fetakgomo-Greater Tubatse Municipality is still emerging and heavily under-invested.
Lack of mechanisation makes smallholder farming one of the least contributor to the municipality’s economic
growth. Although the overall contribution of the sector to the total GVA of the municipality is promising, records
availed by StatsSA, 2013, paint a picture of a sector that is gradually experiencing a steady year-on-year growth
in output. For instance, in a 12-year period review, the agricultural output rose from 13957 in 2001 to 22817 in
2013. The year-on-year growth in output speaks of a sector that shows remarkable growth potential in the future.
Considering that the municipality is blessed with vast tracts of fertile arable land and livestock farming potential,
the optimal job absorption capacity of the sector is still below expectations. The sector suffers from low capacity
utilisation owing to poor investment in mechanisation schemes. Relatively better pay options in the mining
sector, makes many locals to turn their back on the agricultural sector
Geology
The Farm Boerboomskraal is primarily underlain by quartzite and shale (Timbeball Hill and Silverton formations
of the Pretoria Group), with some chemical elements of the Chuniespoort Group, which weather to form shallow
rocky soils of either Glenrosa or Mispah soil forms (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006).
8.2.2. Potential impacts
Topography
No impacts on the local topography are anticipated.
Soils
Potential acceleration of soil erosion is likely to occur in a short-term, it is expected to be limited largely to the
construction phase, when soil preparation and clearing of vegetation takes place.
Agriculture
The establishment of the proposed orchards is anticipated to improve agricultural production by unlocking the
agricultural potential of the property.
Geology
No geological impacts are anticipated.
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Potential impacts that may be associated with topography, soils, agriculture and geology are summarised in the
following table:
Table 8.3: Potential impacts in terms of topography, soils, agriculture and geology
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with mitigation
Soil erosion and
associated siltation of
watercourses
Negative Local Short term Medium Possible Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Unlocking the
agricultural potential
of the property
Positive Local Long term Medium Definite Medium Medium
Soil erosion and
associated siltation of
watercourses
Negative Local Long term Low Possible Medium Low
8.3. Surface hydrology and wetlands
8.3.1. Status quo
Surface water spatial layers such as the National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas (NFEPA) Wetland
Types for South Africa (SANBI, 2013) Indicated the property being between two major perennial rivers, the
Watervals River and Spekboom. The Watervals River forms the northern boundary of the site, and confluences
with the Spekboom River at the north-eastern corner of the property. Furthermore, numerous non-perennial
streams are located within drainage lines on the property (Figure below). The entire farm portion is located
within an Upstream Water Management Area according to NFEPA.
An onsite investigation found wetland conditions to be present in the north-eastern corner of the property formed
by the confluence.
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Figure 8.1: Hydrology of the proposed expansion sites (Limosella Consulting, 2017).
.
8.3.2. Potential impacts
Soil erosion may lead to sedimentation of the wetland and rivers, which in turn may increase turbidity.
Agricultural run-off of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides used in agriculture may also potentially contribute to
the nutrients and toxic organic compounds within the water resource, which may lead to eutrophication or
contamination.
Table 8.4: Potential impacts in terms of surface hydrology and wetlands
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Sedimentation of
watercourses and
increased turbidity in
rivers
Negative Local Short term Low-
Medium
Possible Medium Low
Water contamination
and/or
eutrophication due
to runoff of
pesticides,
fertilizers, etc
Negative Local to
sub-
regional
Long term Low Possible Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increased water
abstraction, though
Negative Local Long term Low Highly
Probable
Medium Medium
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still within existing
allocation from DWS
Introduction and
spread of alien
vegetation in
wetland
Negative Local Long term Medium Possible Medium Low
Water contamination
and/or
eutrophication due
to runoff of
pesticides,
fertilizers, etc
Negative Local to
sub-
regional
Long term Low Possible Medium Low
8.4. Ecology
8.4.1. Status quo
Vegetation type
The proposed location is located in South Africa’s Savanna Biome, more specifically the Central Bushveld
(SVcb26) (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). A bioregion is a composite terrestrial unit that is defined on the basis of
similar biotic and physical features and processes at a regional level. All the proposed agricultural developments
will take place in the Central Bushveld bioregion. The property is occupied only by Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld
(SVcb 26).
It is characterised by an open to dense woody layer, with associated woody and herbaceous shrubs with a
closed to open grass layer. Ohrigstad Mountain Bushveld is listed as Least threatened. A small portion of the
unit (8%) is statutorily conserved within the Bewaarskloof and Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserves. A further
4% is located in other reserves, mainly the Wolkberg Wilderness Area. Only 9% of this vegetation type has
been transformed, mostly by cultivation. Erosion is variable, from very low to very high in parts of the
Sekhukhune region.
Figure 8.2: Reference map of site location Map indicating the different vegetation units according to Mucina
and Rutherford (2012).
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Important taxonomy within the vegetation includes (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006):
Tall Trees:
Sclerocarya birrea subsp. Caffra,
Small Trees:
Acacia exuvialis, A. karroo, A. tortilis subsp.heteracantha, Combretum apiculatum, C. mole, Kirkia wilmsii,
Acacia caffra, Berchemia zeyheri, Boscia foetida subsp. rehmanniana, Commiphora mollis, croton gratissimus,
Englerophytum magalismonttanum, Hippobromus ppauciflorus, Pappea capensis, Terminalia prunioides, Vitex
obovate subsp. Wilmsii, Ziziphus mucronate.
Succulent trees
Euphorbia tirucalli, E. cooperi
Tall Shrubs:
Dichrostachys cinereal, Combretum petrophilum, Crotalaria monteiroi, Grewia bicolor, G.monticola, Hexalobus
monopetalus, karomia speciose, Olea europaea subsp. Africana, Tarchonanthus camphoratus
Low Shrubs:
Grewia Vernicosa, psiadia punctulate, Euclea crispa.
Sacculent Shrubs
Aloe castanea, A.cryptopoda, A.globuligemma
Woody Climbers:
Pterobium stellatum. Graminoids: Loudetia simplex, Andropogon chinensis, Aristida congesta, brachiaria
nigropedata, Eragrotis rigidior, Melinis repens, Panicum maximum
Sacculent Herb:
Aloe fosteri
Fauna
The proposed area is comprised of natural habitat that has been subject to minimal anthropogenic disturbance.
The remainder of the site has been transformed through agriculture and the development of associated
infrastructure. There is suitable habitat for the presence of 40 species of conservation concern.
Ecological sensitivity
The proposed sites for cultivation has a high species richness and remain in a natural condition, though some
portions of the site had been previously disturbed and colonized by a number of alien and invasive plant species
which has degraded the site while some parts, overgrazing has led to severe trampling and signs of erosion
were common. The site still possesses large land which is still suitable for local fauna to persist in. The remaining
land, composed of natural vegetation will be left undeveloped. Furthermore, it is likely that small antelope, such
as Duiker and Bushbuck, will continue to use the site for foraging as natural nearby drainage lines within the
development footprint which will provide them with shelter and forage. These natural areas will also provide a
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retreat where birds, insects and reptiles may shelter. The proposed cultivated lands are still likely to be suitable
foraging areas for the local fauna, though it is likely that the species composition will change.
The proposed cultivation sites are located within a CBA2, while the mountainous part of the property is classified
as a CBA1. The property is a private nature reserve.
During the public comment period, a community member highlighted the fact that certain sensitive plant species
(Ceropegia sp. and Eulophia sp. (orchids)) have been found on an adjacent property, and that there is a high
likelihood of their occurrence on this site as well. This will be investigated as part of the ecological study.
8.4.2. Potential impacts
The proposed project will result in habitat destruction and fragmentation within a CBA2, which may include
TOPS species.
The impact on fauna is anticipated to be low if the management and mitigation measures contained within the
EMPr are adhered to, as the site on which the development is planned has been disturbed, albeit more than 10
years ago. Furthermore, indigenous vegetation which is the preferred habitat of fauna occupying the farm will
not be developed on. The development is proposed to occur on transformed virgin land which was cleared in
2003.
Table 8.5: Potential impacts in terms of vegetation
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Veld fire risk associated with
“hot” construction activities
and workers smoking etc
Negative Local Short
term
Very low Possible Very low Very low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Habitat loss in the areas to
be cleared for cultivation
Negative Local Long
term
Medium Definite Medium Medium
Possible further spreading
of alien plant species or
bush encroachment by
indigenous trees due to
disturbance of natural
vegetation
Negative Local Long
term
Low Possible Medium Low
Table 8.6: Potential impacts in terms of fauna
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Disruption of the activities of
fauna on and around the
site due to construction
Negative Local Short
term
Very low Possible Low Very low
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activities, and possible
trapping / hunting / killing
fauna by labourers
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Habitat destruction and
change in faunal species
composition onsite
Negative Local Long
term
Medium Definite Medium Medium
9. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION –
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INVESTIGATIONS
9.1. Heritage Assessment
9.1.1. Status quo
There are no known graves, buildings older than 60 years, or areas with cultural or religious significance on the
site. According to the most recent archaeological cultural distribution sequences by huffman (2007), this area
falls within the distribution area of various cultural groupings originating out of both the urewe tradition (Eastern
stream of migration) and the kalundu tradition (western stream of migration) with facies from the Kwale and
Moloko branches possibly occurring, and the Kalundu Tradition with facies from the Happy Rest sub-branch
possibly occurring.
The Sekhukhune District has a rich and varied history. Stone Age materials are generally recorded in dry rivers,
erosion gullies and near rocky overhangs. Remains from the Early, Middle and Late Stone are known in the
wider area, especially in the Steelpoort valley, now primarily dominated by platinum and chrome mines. The Iron
Age is also well documented in the wider area, with sites dating from the Eiland and Icon period, through to
more ‘modern’ Marateng facies sites.
9.1.2. Potential impacts
Due to the high level of disturbance and transformation of the site, it is considered unlikely that intact sites of
heritage-related significance will be found onsite. However, this will be investigated by an archaeologist as part
of the impact assessment phase.
Should any previously undetected subterranean heritage remains however be found on site during the remainder
of the construction phase, this must be reported to the Limpopo Heritage Resources Agency (LIHRA) or South
African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and work onsite halted until given the go-ahead by LIHRA and/or
SAHRA.
Table 9.1: Potential heritage impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
None expected - - - - - -
OPERATIONAL PHASE
None expected - - - - - -
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9.2. Social Aspects
9.2.1. Status quo
Information adapted from consolidated Fetakgomo- Greater Tubatse Local Municipality (FGTLM) Integrated
Development Plan (IDP) 2016/17 -2018/2021.
Location
The Fetakgomo-Greater Tubatse Local Municipality forms part of the Sekhukhune District in the Limpopo
province and is located north of N4 highway, Middleburg, Belfast and Mbombela; and east of the N1 highway;
Groblersdal and Polokwane. The municipal area of jurisdiction covers approximately 45 500ha in size. The area
is known as the middelveld as it is located between the Highveld and lowveld regions.
Population
According to the South African Statistics Census 2011 information, the total population of the former Fetakgomo
and Greater Tubatse municipality combined is approximately 429 471 with 106 050 households; this makes it
the municipality with the highest population in the district. When comparing the 2016 Community Survey to the
2011 Stats SA results it shows that in the FGTM there has been a population increase to 490 381, with
households increasing to 125 454. In the municipality the number of women outnumbers the males as they
comprise 51% of the population.
Income, employment and education
The mining, Agriculture, manufacturing, Tourism and business services are the main employer within the
FGTLM, the mining sector is the lead contributor in terms of employment and contributes about 54% of the total
labour force in the formal sector, while the remaining 46% is made from the other sectors, including General
government services supply. 31% of the municipal workforce consists of women while men contribute 69% of
the workforce.
According to the Stats SA (2011), in the Former Fetakgomo and Greater Tubatse Municipalities, the greatest
proportion of households earn between R 400 - R 12 800 monthly.
There are 225 primary and 133 secondary schools and 8 private schools with 128 740 learners and 4 711
Educators in FGTM. The Department of Education Limpopo has developed two state of the art schools namely
Nthame Primary School at Riba – Cross and Batubatse Primary School in Praktiseer.
Economic activities and opportunities
The FGTM is economically the most marginal region of the Limpopo Province. Although the Fetakgomo
economy remains predominantly rural, the current key economic drivers present a great potential for the
improvement in the economic conditions of the general community of the FGTM.
The newly amalgamated Municipality is in the process of rationalising both strategies to form the Fetakgomo-
Greater Tubatse Local Economic Development Plan which will then direct the economic agenda of the
Municipality. The Plan is set to focus on key economic areas of development anchored on coordinating public
and private investment in flagship projects focusing on economic drivers related to infrastructural development,
small to medium enterprises; agricultural and agro processing; mining and beneficiation; tourism and destination
marketing; manufacturing and value addition; and the Green economy in the municipality.
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The municipality together with other government sector are busy with projects in expanding the roads, ensuring
the there is water to run the mines, souring electrical energy to supply the mine and community etc. To this
effect, FT/GTM hosts a town, Burgersfort, a provincial growth point and Steelpoort, a district growth point. The
growth of these towns should stimulate investments that can accrue due to mine developments
Infrastructure and services
Water: The Municipality is neither a Water Services Authority nor a Water Service Provider. The FGTM is a
water stressed municipality. These functions were assigned to the Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM). The
SDM is responsible for provision of Free Basic Water (FBW) to the 39 wards of the municipality. According to
community survey 2016 records that 58 255 households have access to piped water and 67 208 households
have no access to piped water.
Sanitation: The sanitation function is within the Sekhukhune District Municipality. According to the Sekhukhune
District’s Water Sector Development Plan (2004), FGTM has a huge backlog in sanitation provision. Generally,
sanitation facilities in some villages are in poor state hence the Sekhukhune District Municipality is currently
constructing VIP toilets in most villages of the municipality. Most industrial consumers are in the existing urban
centers (e.g. Burgersfort) and discharge their effluent into the municipal sewers for treatment at the Waste Water
Treatment Works.
Electricity: FGTM is not the electricity authority nor provider and this is the sole competency of ESKOM. The
municipality is only responsible for the coordination of the service by making sure that communities are consulted
and by compiling a priority list. The only provider of electricity in the region is ESKOM; which has installed basic
infrastructure to provide electricity to the communities.
Housing: Housing delivery is a competence of the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlement
and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA). The municipality’s primary role is limited to compiling housing waiting lists.
However, the municipality can make a careful assessment of delivery in the area thus far, and how this impacts
on socio-economic development generally.
According to South African Statistics in 2011 Fetakgomo and Greater Tubatse Municipalities as combined had
106 050 households, and in the 2016 community survey it is 125 454 within Fetakgomo Greater Tubatse. No
land within the municipal area belongs to the municipality, while some of the land portions belonging to the other
spheres of government are subject to land claim.
Health care: There are 26 medical facilities in the Fetakgomo Greater Tubatse Local Municipality, which mainly
constitute regional clinics that provide health services to the communities. The Dilokong Hospital is the biggest
hospital followed by Mecklenburg, HC Boshoff, Penge health centre and Nchabeleng Health cnetre. Nchabeleng
Health Centre has a potential to be converted into a hospital
Waste management: The Municipality is in a process of ensuring that the whole area of the municipality
receives waste services. Waste management services are currently rendered in a few areas of the municipality
by the municipality and by independent contractors in private properties. Waste is collected and deposited in
landfill sites. Bins and containers are provided in public areas for collection of waste. Waste collection is done
on Monday to Friday. In Burgersfort business and household waste is collected daily except on Sundays. The
municipality has 3 licensed landfiils: Bugersfort landfill, Malogeng landfill and Mataganeng.
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9.2.2. Potential impacts
The following short-term socio-economic impacts may be expected during the development phase of the
proposed project:
• Job creation: 70 jobs during the development phase of 5 months.
• Support of local job opportunities through support of local businesses in the procurement of materials,
equipment and services to be used in the development phase.
Long-term socio-economic impacts during the operational phase may relate to the following:
• Job creation: 15 permanent jobs and 50 seasonal jobs for 5 months of each year.
• Contribution to local economic development – the orchards will increase citrus production on the property,
which in turn is anticipated to contribute to the secondary agriculture-based industries in the area, such
as transport and the applicant’s packhouse situated nearby. Staff employed at the farm are also
anticipated to spend most of their disposable income locally, which in turn will also stimulate the local
economy.
Table 9.2: Potential social impacts
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Supporting local businesses
through local procurement
of materials, equipment &
services
Positive Local Short
term
Low-
Medium
Highly
probable
Low Low-Medium
Direct and indirect job
creation
Positive Local Short
term
Medium Highly
probable
Low Low-Medium
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Direct and indirect job
creation
Positive Local Long
term
Low Highly
probable
Very low Low
Contribution to local
economy
Positive Local Long
term
Medium Highly
probable
Medium Medium
9.3. Visual Aspects
9.3.1. Status quo
The property has a visual appearance similar to surrounding areas where agricultural lands, areas with natural
vegetation, riparian vegetation along the river, and gravel farm roads.
The cultivation sites themselves appear degraded, not pristine, with sections being affected by bush
encroachment and others by erosion and grazing. These proposed locations are surrounded by existing
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agricultural fields and natural areas with undisturbed vegetation. Two of the sites are situated right at the farm
boundary which is approximately 350m away from the R37 road, with high visibility.
9.3.2. Potential impacts
Development-phase visual impacts can be expected in the form of vegetation clearance and soil preparation. In
light of the short duration of the construction period and the fact that the type of activities that are proposed are
similar to what occurs in the surrounding area, even though some of the development will be highly visible, the
visual impacts of the development phase are anticipated to have low significance.
Operational-phase visual impacts are similarly anticipated to be of low significance, due to the fact that the
proposed cultivation is in line with surrounding land use and the surrounding visual landscape.
Table 9.3: Potential visual impacts
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Vegetation clearance
and soil preparation
Negative Local Short
term
Medium Definite Low Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Visual impact of
replacement of natural
vegetation with
agriculture
Negative Local Long
term
Medium Definite Low Low
9.4. Noise
9.4.1. Status quo
The site is situated in an area where ambient noise levels are low, with sounds mostly associated with the voices
of farm workers on surrounding farms, farm machinery and the sound of vehicles travelling on the nearby R37
road. There are no sensitive noise receptors (e.g. schools or places of worship) in close proximity to the site;
the site is surrounded by agricultural areas.
9.4.2. Potential impacts
Development-phase impacts are anticipated to be mainly associated with machinery, e.g. bulldozers and
tractors involved in vegetation clearance and soil preparation. These impacts will be short-term in duration,
occurring only during the development phase, and will be very low in magnitude. The significance of the impacts
will be further reduced by the absence of sensitive local noise receptors and the fact that the type of noise will
be in line with the surrounding area, which is mostly used for agriculture.
Given the short-term nature of development-phase noise impacts and the distance of the site from noise-
sensitive receptors, noise impacts potentially associated with the development phase are anticipated to be of
very low significance.
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Agricultural activities during the operational phase are also anticipated to have very low significance noise
impacts, with noise mostly associated with vehicles for instance transporting workers into orchards or spraying
pesticides, etc. Again, this will be congruent with the sounds of nearby agricultural activities in the area.
Table 9.4: Potential impacts in terms of noise
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
Noise associated with
vegetation clearance and
soil preparation
Negative Local Short
term
Very low Highly
probable
Very low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Noise associated with
vehicles used in agricultural
activities, e.g tractors
Negative Local Long term Very low Highly
probable
Very low
9.5. Indirect and cumulative impacts
As is the case for any activity, impacts are not limited to those directly or even indirectly associated with the
proposed activity – potential cumulative impacts need to be considered as well, so that activities can be seen
not as stand-alone entities but as part of the larger picture.
The following tables highlight potential indirect and cumulative impacts of the proposed project:
Table 9.5: Potential indirect and cumulative impacts – BIOPHYSICAL ASPECTS
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
Habitat loss and
fragmentation, including
wetlands
Negative Local Long term Medium Definite Medium
Increased soil erosion and
possible associated
sedimentation of the wetland
Negative Local Long term Medium Highly
probable
Low-Medium
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increased water abstraction,
with reduced water
availability downstream
Negative Local Long term Low Highly
probable
Low-medium
Risk of contamination of
water resources by
agricultural chemicals
Negative Local Long term Unknown Possible Medium
Table 9.6: Potential indirect and cumulative impacts – SOCIO-ECONOMIC ASPECTS
DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihoo
d Significance
Job creation Positive Local Short
term
Medium Definite Low
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Visual impacts Negative Local Long term Medium Definite Low
Noise Negative Local Short
term
Very low Highly
probable
Very low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Job creation Positive Local- sub
regional
Long term Medium Definite Low-medium
Contribution to local
economy
Positive Local Long term Medium Definite Low-medium
10. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
10.1. Advertisement of Commencement of EIA Process / I&AP registration period
The commencement of the EIA process / I&AP registration period was advertised for a period of 30 days (12
May to 11 June 2017) in the following ways (please refer to Appendix E for copies of newspaper advertisements,
photographs of site notices and the list of stakeholders who were directly notified):
• Publication of a notice (English and SePedi) in the local newspaper, the Steelburger, on 12 May 2017;
• Display of site notices (each containing both the English and the SePedi adverts) at and near the site;
• Direct notification of identified Interested and/or Affected Parties (I&APs) via fax, e-mail and/or post.
10.2. Public Meeting
A Public Meeting has been scheduled for 08 November 2017, to be held at the Motsepula packhouse near the
site. The purpose of the Public Meeting will be to afford stakeholders and members of the public the opportunity
to interface with the project team to obtain information about the proposed project and to have their comments,
queries and/or concerns addressed.
10.3. Issues Raised
The only comments raised thus far have been received from one local community member, who highlighted the
high likelihood of certain sensitive plant species occurring onsite, as their presence on a neighbouring property
has been confirmed. These comments will be addressed as part of the ecological study during the impact
assessment phase.
10.4. Availability of Consultative ESR for Review and Comment
This consultative ESR is currently available for public review and comment for a period of 30 days, from 31
October to 30 November 2017. Copies of the report are available at the Naranja Packers packhouse near the
site and Polygon’s offices in Tzaneen during this period. Electronic copies on CD are also available from Polygon
upon request and copies (whether in hard copy or on CD) have submitted directly to certain stakeholders for
their comment (notably DWS, SAHRA and FGTLM).
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11. PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
11.1. Approach to Undertaking the Impact Assessment Phase of the Project
The impact assessment phase of this project will comprise a more in-depth assessment of potential impacts, as
well as development of detailed impact mitigation measures. It will also include an extension of the public
participation process in order to make the findings of the entire EIA available to I&APs and to obtain their
comments.
11.2. Assessments to be conducted as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment phase
During the ESS phase of this project, the following aspects were assessed at a desktop level, complemented
by a site inspection by Polygon, to determine the status quo and to identify potential impacts of the proposed
development:
Bio-physical aspects
• Climate
• Topography, Soils, Agriculture and Geology
• Surface hydrology and wetlands
• Ecology
Socio-economic aspects
• Heritage
• Social aspects
• Visual aspects
• Noise
The following aspects have been identified as requiring further, more detailed specialist investigation; these will
be looked at in more detail during the impact assessment phase of this project:
Bio-physical aspects
• Ecological: An ecological study will be undertaken by an ecologist to investigate the current conditions
onsite in terms of vegetation and fauna, as well as potential impacts that may be wrought by the proposed
project. The following aspects will be assessed through a combination of desktop investigations and a field
investigation:
- Vegetation types and units, including an assessment of whether vegetation is pristine or degraded
- Gauging which faunal species are likely to occur onsite, based on the habitat found onsite
- Ecological sensitivity of the site, including compilation of a sensitivity map and recommendations in
terms of the suitability of parts of the site that are proposed for development;
- Possible presence of threatened or protected species (fauna or flora);
- Identification of potential ecological impacts that may be associated with the proposed project
- Recommendation of measures for prevention, mitigation or management of potential ecological
impacts
- Recommendation as to whether the project can be supported from an ecological perspective
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• Wetland and riparian areas: A wetland and riparian delineation will be undertaken to determine the extent
of wetland and riparian conditions on the site and to assess the Present Ecological State (PES) and
Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS). Potential impacts of the proposed projects on the wetland and
riparian areas will be identified and an assessment done of the potential significance of such impacts. The
investigation will combine a desktop study with fieldwork in which the focus will be on wetland indicators
such as terrain unit indicators (hydrogeomorphic classification), vegetation and soils. Riparian indicators
(specifically vegetation) will also be used to identify riparian areas along drainage lines.
The delineation method will follow the DWAF document “Updated manual for identification and delineation
of wetlands and riparian areas” (DWAF, 2008), and the Minimum Requirements for Biodiversity
Assessments (GDACE, 2009) as well as the Classification System for Wetlands and other Aquatic
Ecosystems in South Africa. User Manual: Inland Systems (Ollis et al, 2013). These guidelines describe
the use of indicators to determine the outer edge of the wetland and riparian areas such as soil and
vegetation forms as well as the terrain unit indicator.
Socio-economic aspects
• Heritage: A Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) will be undertaken to investigate whether sites or objects
of heritage-related significance occur onsite or are likely to occur. Desktop investigations will be combined
with a site walkover to look for grave sites, archaeological or palaeontological material, or for signs of
disturbance where subterranean archaeological material is more likely to be found. Other aspects to be
considered, include whether the site holds any non-tangible cultural or religious value to local communities
or residents.
11.3. Assessment of impacts
Impacts that may be associated with the proposed project will be assessed according to the following
methodology:
• Status:
- Positive – the proposed project is to have a positive impact in terms of the particular parameter;
- Negative – the proposed project is to have a negative impact in terms of the particular parameter;
- Neutral – the proposed project is to have neither a positive nor a negative impact in terms of the
particular parameter.
• Extent:
- Local – the impact is to be felt on the site and in its immediate surroundings, up to a radius of 50km from
the site);
- Sub-regional – the impact is to be felt at a distance of up to 100km from the site;
- Regional – the impact is to be felt in the Limpopo Province;
- National – the impact is to be felt across provincial boundaries.
• Duration:
Refers to the period of time over which impacts can be expected to be experienced.
- Short term – 0 to 5 years;
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