BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY
B I O D I V E R S I T Y R E P O R T | 2 0 10
ENHANCING URBAN NATURE THROUGH A GLOBAL NETWORK OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
The Local Action for Biodiversity (LAB) Programme began as a 3 year
project that was developed by ICLEI - Local Governments for
Sustainability, International Union for the Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) and other partners, and was initiated by the City of Cape Town,
and supported by the eThekwini Municipality (Durban). ICLEI is an
international association of local governments and national and
regional local government organizations that have made a commitment
to sustainable development. LAB is ICLEI's global biodiversity
programme, which aims to assist local governments in their efforts to
conserve and sustainably manage biodiversity.
Local Action for Biodiversity involves a select number of cities
worldwide and focuses on exploring the best ways for local
governments to engage in urban biodiversity conservation,
enhancement, utilization and management. The Programme aims to
facilitate understanding, communication and support among decisionmakers, citizens and other stakeholders regarding urban biodiversity
issues and the need for local action. It emphasizes integration of
biodiversity considerations into planning and decision-making
processes. Some of the specific goals of the programme include
demonstrating good practice urban biodiversity management;
provision of documentation and development of biodiversity
management and implementation tools; access to technical biodiversity
expertise; sourcing funding from national and international agencies for
biodiversity-related development projects; profiling LAB local
governments; and increasing global awareness of the importance of
biodiversity at the local level.
The Local Action for Biodiversity Programme is hosted within the ICLEI
Africa Secretariat at the City of Cape Town, South Africa. For more
information, please visit www.iclei.org/lab.
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
The Bergrivier Municipality (BRM) is proud to be part of the
new global urban biodiversity initiative Local Action for
Biodiversity (LAB) programme which was launched by ICLEI
Local Governments for Sustainability in 2006. The programme
aims to facilitate the understanding and communication among
decision makers, citizens and other stakeholders regarding
biodiversity issues and the need for local action.
The BRM falls within the Cape Floral Kingdom, which is a
global biodiversity hotspot. The presence of natural features
such as; 21 vegetation types with many rare and endangered
plant species; the Berg River Estuary, which is rated the 3rd
most important estuary in South Africa; many rare and endemic
vertebrate species such as the Berg River redfin, and the rugged
Groot Winterhoek Wilderness, which is part of the Cape Floral
Region World Heritage Site, contribute to the biodiversity assets
of the BRM.
These natural areas contain valuable ecological systems
delivering environmental services and natural capital goods
that are critical for the functioning of the earth's life support
systems and the economy. Biodiversity plays a very important
role in underpinning and sustaining the livelihoods of urban
and rural people of the BRM. Biodiversity gives the BRM its
unique character and the conservation of its uniqueness can
translate into a powerful economic driver through responsible
tourism. It is therefore absolutely essential that the BRM as an
environmental steward manage and conserve this wealth of
biodiversity. This report profiles the variety and state of the
biodiversity assets within the BRM and the collaborative efforts
that government and civil society have launched to conserve
and manage this globally significant asset. This document will
be used by staff and other stakeholders as a baseline document
for the successful planning and implementation of the
Bergrivier LAB programme into the future.
The Council of the Bergrivier Municipality is committed to
sustainable development goals through continuous networking
and learning from local and global institutions and
authorities.The conservation of biodiversity and the ecosystem
goods and services that it supplies are a cornerstone of
sustainable development. It is in everyone's interest that
biodiversity is fully integrated into planning and decision
making in the BRM.
HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR
COUNCILLOR JA LIEBENBERG
BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY
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CONTENTS
No
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2
Section
DESCRIPTION OF LAB
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
CONTENTS
Page
ii
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1.1
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
KEY STAKEHOLDERS
PREFACE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
LOCATION
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5
6
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1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
HISTORY
THE PEOPLE
THE ECONOMY
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INDICATORS
THE LOCAL AUTHORITY
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2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
BIODIVERSITY ASSETS
BRM VISION AND MISSION FOR BIODIVERSITY
DEFINITION OF BIODIVERSITY
WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY?
DEFINITION OF ECOSYSTEMS
IMPORTANCE OF BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
THE ECOSYSTEM DIVERSITY OF THE BRM
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2.7
2.8
2.9
TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY : VEGETATION TYPES
TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY : TERRESTRIAL VERTEBRATES
AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS
2.9.1 CATCHMENTS AND RIVERS
2.9.2 WETLANDS
2.9.3 ESTUARIES
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3
3.1
3.2
3.3
4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION
CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH AFRICA
WESTERN CAPE CONSTITUTION
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LEGISLATION
PLANNING FRAMEWORKS
INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORKS
NATIONAL FRAMEWORKS
PROVINCIAL FRAMEWORKS
LOCAL FRAMEWORKS
BIODIVERSITY MAPS
4.5.1 NATIONAL SPATIAL BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT
4.5.2 CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS (CBA)
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5.1
5.2
5.3
6
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE
MAINSTREAMING BIODIVERSITY INTO GOVERNANCE
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER AGENCIES
CONSERVATION IMPLEMENTATION
STATUTORY PROTECTED AREAS
VOLUNTARY PROTECTED AREAS
GREATER CEDERBERG BIODIVERSITY CORRIDOR
ASSOCIATIONS
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6.7
6.8
6.9
6.4.1 GREATER CEDERBERG FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION
6.4.2 VELDDRIF HERITAGE FOUNDATION
6.4.3 VELDDRIF BERGR IVIER CONSERVATION ASSOC IATION (VBRCA)
6.4.4 KROM ANTONIES WATER ASSOCIATION
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE “ BEST PRACTICES”
6.5.1 SUSTAINABLE ROOIBOS PRODUCTION: “RIGHT ROOIBOS”
6.5.2 BIODIVERSITY BEST PRACTICES FOR POTATO PRODUC TION IN
THE SANDVELD
STAKEHOLDER PARTICIPATION AND COMMUNICATION
6.6.1 GCBC STEERING COMMITTEE
6.6.2 THE SANDVELD INFO FORUM
6.6.3 GROOT WINTERHOEK FRESHWATER STEWAR DSHIP STEERING
COMMITTEE
6.6.4
GROOT
WINTERHOEK
PROTECTED
AREA ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
6.6.5 VERLORENVLEI COALITION
6.6.6 BERG RIVER ESTUARY MANAGEMENT FORUM
6.6.7 VERLORENVLEI ESTUARY MANAGEMENT FORUM
LAW ENFORCEMENT
MONITORING
RESEARCH
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COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION AND PUB LIC AWARENESS
REFERENCES
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
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6.5
6.6
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MAPS
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3
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LOCALITY MAP OF THE BER G RIVER MUNICIPALITY
BIOMES OF SOUTH AFRICA
FORMER EXTENT OF VEGETATION TYPES IN THE BRM
CURRENT EXTENT OF VEGETATION TYPES IN THE BR M
FORMER EXTENT OF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS IN THE BRM
CURRENT EXTENT OF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS IN THE BRM
CATCHMENTS AND RIVERS OF THE BRM
CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS AND SUB C ATCHMENTS IN THE BRM
CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS OF THE BRM
NATIONAL SPATIAL BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT
TERRESTRIAL CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS FOR THE BRM
STATUTORY AND VOLUNTARY CONSERVATION SITES WITHIN THE
BRM
THE GCBC PLANNING DOMAIN
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18
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20
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37
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40
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TABLES
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THE DISTRIBUTION OF EMPLOY MENT IN THE BRM
THE PERCENTAGE OF VEGETATION TYPES OCCURRING IN THE BRM
THE KNOWN AND PRESUM ED HISTORICAL INCIDENC E OF LARGER
MAMMALS OF THE SANDVELD REGION
SUMMARY OF THE INLAND WETLANDS AND ESTUARIES OCCURRING
WITHIN THE BRM
THE SIZE, IMPORTANCE AND CONSERVATION OF THE BERG RIVER
ESTUARY
LAND COVER CATEGOR IES FOR THE BRM
CRITERIA USED TO DEFINE CBA
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THE DESIRED MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES FOR THE CBA OF THE BRM
STATUTORY PROTEC TED AREAS OF THE BRM
VOLUNTARY PROTEC TED AREAS OF THE BRM
RESPONSIBILITIES OF VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS AND INSTITUTIONS
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80
3
4
5
35
41
49
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LIST OF FIGURES
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ENVIRONMENTAL GOODS AND SERVICES
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS IN THIS PUBLICATION
AAMSL - Above Mean Sea Level
BRBMP - River Baseline Monitoring Programme
BIDP - Berg River Integrated Development Plan 2007
BRM - Berg River Municipality
CAPE - Cape Action for People and the Environment
CBA - Critical Biodiversity Areas
CBNRM - Community Based Natural Resource
Management
CESA - Critical Ecological Support Areas
CFR - Cape Floristic Region
CSIR - Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
DEA&DP - Department of Environmental Affairs and
Development Planning
DWA - Department of Water Affairs
EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment
EMA - Estuarine Management Area
EMP - Environmental Management Programme
EPA - Estuarine Protected Area
EPWP - Expanded Public Works Programme
ESA - Early Stone Age
ESA - Ecological Support Area
FSP - Fine Scale Planning
GCBC - Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor
GCFPA - Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association
GNP - Gross National Product
HDI - Human Development Index
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HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus
ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, is an international
association of local governments as well as national and regional
local government organizations who have made a commitment to
sustainable development.
IDP - Integrated Development Programme
IUCN - International Union for the Conservation of Nature
KZN - Kwazulu-Natal
LAB - Local Action for Biodiversity
LED - Local Economic Development
MAP - Mean Annual Precipitation.
MSA - Middle Stone Age
NEMA - National Environmental Management Act
NHRA - National Heritage Resources Act
NGO - Non-Governmental Organisation
NSBA - National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment
OESA - Other Ecological Support Areas
PAAC - Protected Areas Advisory Committee
PMU - Project Management Unit
PSDF - Provincial Spatial Development Framework
SANBI - South African National Biodiversity Institute
SDF - Spatial Development Framework
TB - Tuberculosis
WMA - Water Management Area
WOF - Working on Fire
BIODIVERSITY REPORT | BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY | 2010
KEY STAKEHOLDERS
Bergrivier M unicipality
Is a local authority and is the overall coordinator of the LAB Project
Berg River Estuary Management Forum
This multi stakeholder committee meets to discuss management issues
and concerns r elated to the Berg River Estuar y
CapeNature
Western Cape Nature Conservation Board is the provincial nature
conservation authority responsible for biodiversity management
Cape Leopard Trust
The trust a ims to facilitate leopard conservation through simultaneously
implementing conservation strategies, research projects and tourism
initiatives
Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor
A conservation partnership of global importance
Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association
Responsible to ensure compliance to the Veld and Forest Fire Act and to
implement integrated fire management activities
Landcare South Africa
Implementation of projects related to resource management in the
agricultural sector
Potatoes South Africa
Responsible fo r the implementation o f the Biodiversity Best Practices for
Potato Production
South African Ro oibos Council
Responsible for the implementation of the Right Roo ibos Initiative
Velddrif Bergr ivier Conservatio n Association (VBRC A)
Focus on the status and integrity of the Berg Rive r Estuary as an
extremely sensitive and important ecological system
Velddrif Heritage Foundation
Is registered as a Conservation Body at Heritage Western Cape
Verlorenvlei Coa lition
The coalition was established to stop pr oposed mining activi ties from
taking place in the Moutonshoek valley
Working for W etlands
Implementation of alien clearing in the Verlorenvlei catchment area
Working on Fire
Is a South Africa n, government-funded, multi-partner organisation
focused on Integra ted Fire Manage ment and veld and wild fir e fighting
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PREFACE
PREFACE
ACRONYMS
This document forms part of a set of biodiversity
reports produced by participant local governments
of the Local Action for Biodiversity (LAB)
Programme. It represents a critical starting point: a
status quo assessment of biodiversity and its
management in each LAB city.
Each biodiversity report covers four key themes*,
namely:
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Ecology;
Governance;
Integration;
Participation.
The LAB participants' biodiversity reports in the
past have been drawn upon by the LAB
Coordination Team to contribute significant and
useful information for the compilation, of the
Local Action for Biodiversity Guidebook:
Biodiversity Management for Local Governments.
The LAB Guidebook is a practical guide and
contains good practice theory and examples,
principles, strategies etc. for use by cities to better
manage local biodiversity. The LAB Guidebook
will in turn contribute towards further steps in the
LAB process.
The five steps in the LAB process are as follows:
Step 1: Development of a biodiversity report that
documents the current state of biodiversity and its
management within each local government;
Step 2: Ensuring long-term commitment by
political leaders to sustainable biodiversity
management through the formal signing of the
internationally recognised Durban Commitment;
Step 3: Development of a long-term biodiversity strategy
and action plan (LBSAP) that will include commitments
to biodiversity plans and integration within broader
city plans;
Step 4: Formal acceptance and approval of LAB
participants' LBSAP;
Step 5: Implementation of three on-the-ground
biodiversity interventions or projects by the end of
the three-years.
The biodiversity reports create a unique opportunity for profiling the
importance of urban biodiversity, and innovation in its management, on a
global scale. They are the foundation not only of the long-term plans that each city will
develop to enhance, protect and develop their urban biodiversity, but also collectively form the basis
for the development of LAB as a highly effective global urban biodiversity programme. These reports will also
serve to inform all local government staff (and others) about local biodiversity. The aim of the report is to highlight
the importance of biodiversity features in the Bergrivier Municipality.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Bergrivier Municipality (BRM) is situated within the jurisdictional district of the West Coast District Municipality
and covers an area of 4 407 km². It is home to an estimated 55 999 primarily rural people, many of them poor and
unskilled. The biodiversity features within the BRM are of global conservation significance and the Groot Winterhoek
Wilderness which is a Cape Floral Region World Heritage Site. The environment has been occupied by hominins and
later by humans for at least 1 million years and has a rich archaeological heritage. Commercial agriculture dominates
and is the primary economic activity and driver of habitat transformation and loss of biodiversity. However ecotourism is recognised as the most important economic driver in increasing revenue for the municipality and as a means
of delivering livelihood benefit to the rural community.
The BRM is part of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR), the only floristic region in the world to occur wholly within the
borders of a single country and is one of the 34 globally identified biodiversity hotspots. It is home to 9000 plant
species, 70% of which are unique to the floral kingdom. The municipality is characterised by a great diversity of soils,
altitudinal and rainfall gradients and as a result is home to an astonishing variety of life. Twenty-one vegetation types
occur within the BRM, one of which, Piketberg Sandstone Fynbos, is endemic to the municipality. The lowland areas
and associated vegetation types have been heavily impacted by human occupation and activity. The result has been
that they are some of the most threatened ecosystems in the South Africa and require concerted effort if they are to be
conserved. The BRM is also home to a large variety of vertebrates and invertebrates. The larger ungulates are however
now locally extinct.
The Verlorenvlei redfin is unique to that river system, and the Sout River has its own species of Galaxia. Particularly
2
important is the 9000 km Berg River catchment that feeds the Berg River Estuary which is regarded as the 3rd most
important estuary in South Africa and the catchment of the Verlorenvlei Wetland which is a RAMSAR site. The hotter
drier predictions of climate change for the West Coast could have far reaching impacts on these systems in future.
There is a great diversity of wetland habitats throughout the BRM all of which are under threat to a greater or lesser
degree, once again the lowland systems in particular are highly threatened.
Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems have been identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas and Critical Ecological Support
Areas in the BRM. It is of utmost importance that these areas are conserved and that the desired management objective
for these areas are met by the administrators of the BRM. Great strides have already been taken in conserving the rich
biodiversity heritage of the BRM with 48 727 ha's formally conserved in Provincial Nature Reserves and in stewardship
agreements and a further 46 073 ha's committed to conservation on a voluntary basis.
The BRM recognises that the well-being of every human population in the world is fundamentally and directly
dependent on ecosystem services. The development of a dedicated strategy for biodiversity conservation in the BRM is
a key challenge that must be addressed. The BRM realises that it is not alone in this endeavour but that a significant
opportunity exists to partner and work with the many projects, civil society and institutional structures, industry
initiatives, NGO's and government departments and agencies that are actively engaged in addressing the challenges to
biodiversity conservation and sustainability within the municipal boundaries.
Through this collaboration the municipality aims to achieve its mission of delivering cost-effective, sustainable services
with a well represented army of employees who are motivated to stimulate local economic development as well as
environmentally sensitive development through transparent decision making based on sound management principles
within the ambit of unique character and cultural, historical heritage.
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INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTIONAND
ANDBACKGROUND
BACKGROUND
1.1
LOCATION
The Bergrivier Municipality (BRM) is situated within the jurisdictional district of the West Coast District
Municipality in the Western Cape. It covers more than 4 407 km² and is surrounded by four other Municipalities
namely Cederberg to the north, Swartland to the south, Saldanha Bay to the west and Witzenberg (Cape Winelands
District Municipality) to the east. The
Municipality aims to meet the needs of the
LOCALITY MAP OF BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY
community and to provide services to the
urban settlements of Redelinghuys,
Eendekuil, Aurora, Velddrif, Porterville,
Piketberg, Dwarskersbos, Laaiplek,
G o e d v e r w a c h t a n d W i t t e wa t e r .
Piketberg serves as the administrative
centre for the municipality. These towns
are respectively between 100 and 150
kilometres to the north of the City of
Cape Town.
Natural features such as the Atlantic
Ocean to the west, the Groot
Winterhoek Mountains to the east, the
Berg River to the south and the
Verlorenvlei to the north define the
boundary of the BRM. Some of these
features are of global conservation
significance and include the Berg River
Estuary which is recognised
internationally as a Ramsar site and the
Groot Winterhoek Wilderness which is
part of the Cape Floral Region World
Heritage Site.
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1.2
HISTORY
The archaeological importance of the West Coast is well established. Archaeological and historical evidence
indicates that the West Coast of South Africa has been occupied by hominins, and later humans, since the Early
Stone Age (more than 1 million years ago) through to the Middle Stone Age and Later Stone Age, right up to the
recent arrival of early Trekboers in the 18th century. By far the greatest number of archaeological sites are those
which relate to the ancestry of the San and Khoekhoen. Some of these sites have been radiocarbon dated and are at
least 5000 years old. This is an area that has been occupied by modern humans for an extended period of time.
Subsequent research has now shown that people have been exploiting coastal resources along this portion of the
West Coast for the last 120 000 years (Kaplan pers com).
Commercial agricultural land use dominates the rural landscape of the BRM. From the records of early Dutch
travellers, it has been established that the hunter-gatherer settlements were ephemeral, as that these peoples were
primarily nomadic, moving in response to the availability of food. Most early explorers mentioned the large
numbers of abandoned windbreaks, which seem to have been occupied for very short periods of time, constructed
by these nomads. Small numbers of stone artefacts, potsherds and ostrich eggshells have been recorded in a
number of deflation hollows that are located north of the Berg River between the river and Rocher Pan. Further
inland of Velddrif scatters of Later Stone Age tools, ostrich eggshell, pottery and colonial era artefacts have been
found in wind deflation hollows and agricultural lands north of the Berg River (Kaplan pers com).
South of Velddrif, Aurora and Piketberg, the landscape changes dramatically, this wide region has been
transformed for intensive wheat production, but even within these highly modified landscapes, archaeological
occurrences have still been documented. Very little archaeological research has been done in the area south of
Aurora. Research along the drainage line of the Bergrivier, between Paarl and Porterville, has documented Middle
and Early Stone occurrences. Bushman rock paintings occur in the mountains above Aurora and the adjacent
Piketberg Mountain. There are also historical accounts
of a Khoekhoen group known as the `Kogokwas',
whose presence in the Aurora area, along with several
other groups living around the Piketberg Mountains,
was recorded in the 1660's (Kaplan pers com).
South of Hopefield and west of Moorreesburg, older
archaeological material dating from the Middle and
Early Stone Ages has been found in areas where
agricultural activities such as wheat farming are
pursued. These materials have been unearthed by
farmers while ploughing their lands in preparation for
planting. Recent research has also shown that
Khoekhoen herder encampments are archaeologically
`visible' in these highly transformed landscapes. Small
scale sand mining has also resulted in the exposure of
previous land surfaces, on which older ESA and MSA
material is also found (Kaplan pers com).
The Groot Winterhoek region is known for its large
number of rock paintings, particularly those depicting colonial imagery. Rock paintings record the remarkable
artistic achievement of the indigenous San of Southern Africa, who created them for religious purposes as part
of a changing cultural tradition that persisted for over 20 000 years. The Groot Winterhoek was also unusual in
terms of early Cape history, in that - unlike in many other areas from which the Khoisan quickly disappeared there was sustained contact in the region between remnants of the Khoisan and colonists throughout the
eighteenth century (Kaplan pers com).
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EXTINCT LARGE UNGULATES
Governor Simon van der Stel's expedition to the copper
mountains in Namaqualand in 1681 called Verlorenvlei
the 'Zeekoejen-valey', referring to the many hippopotami
they observed.
The San name for the river was
'Quaecoma' (a lost or forlorn marsh) and the Dutch then
translated that to 'Verloren Vallei'. Van der Stel's diary also
revealed the presence of black rhinos in the Piketberg
area, with a record of being chased by one while out
hunting.
Some of the many rock drawings in the area left by Khoisan and
other indigenous people.
By the start of the 1800's
many Colonists had
established fisheries and sent
their salted fish as far as
Tulbagh and Goudini. This
inland trade of salted and
dried fish supports the
inhabitants of the coast. In
1806 the Swartland and
Piketberg regions began to
develop as the cereal
production region of the
Cape Colony. By the 1830's
ships and cutters were plying
an important local trade route
as they transported grain and
other commodities between
Cape Town and Velddrif and
further into the Sandveld.
1.3 THE PEOPLE
In 2007 the population of BRM
was estimated at 55 999, this accounts for 17, 1 % of the West Coast District population of 327 548 people. Between
2001 and 2006, the population increased from 48 076 to 54 658 at an average annual growth rate of 2.57%.
However, it is projected that the growth will decline slightly between 2007 and 2015 to 2,3 %. The BRM has a large
rural population, with 39,30 % of all households in 2001 located in rural areas. By 2007 this figure had decreased to
31% following the general trend of rural people migrating to urban centres in search of opportunity.
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The population of BRM is predominantly coloured (74%), while the white population comprised 19 % and the
African population 6 % of the total in 2006, respectively. The population is fairly youthful with children aged 0-14
years and youths aged 15-34 years accounting for 27,8 % and 32,9 % of the total population respectively out of a
total population of 55 999 (2007 figure). The youthful population demographic has long-term development
implications for the municipality in that population growth will increasingly put pressure on facilities and
resources of the BRM (Bergrivier Strategic Review, 2010)
1.4 THE ECONOMY
The BRM is generally described as a low-growth area in the Western Cape. However the Western Cape Province
has experienced real annual growth in excess of the national average over the last two decades. The subdued
growth in the Bergrivier Municipal area is caused by:
3
Agriculture, the dominant sector, has been hampered by droughts, lower profitability and rationalisation
of production techniques;
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3
Fishing has also declined as a result of lower catches and tighter quota controls;
3
The N7 transport corridor from Cape Town to Namaqualand and further north is only peripheral to the
municipal area, with Piketberg too close to Cape Town to function as a significant stop for passing trucks.
(Bergrivier Spatial Development Framework [SDF], 2008).
Being located to the northwest of Cape Town, the area does not fall within the in-migration corridor from
the Eastern Cape;
TABLE 1: THE DISTRIBUTION OF EMPLOYMENT IN THE BRM
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SECTOR
% CONTRIBUTION
Agriculture, fishing, fo restry
55.8%
Mining
1.6%
Manufacturing
7.1%
Electricity and water
0.2%
Construction
3.6%
Wholesale and retail
7.5%
Transport and co mmunication
0.8%
Finance and business service s
4.1%
Communication ser vices
5.8%
Government services
13.3%
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Factors such as the distance from Cape Town, low population densities, low levels of formal education, shortage of
skilled labour, poor and expensive public transport and limited access to communication facilities are currently
generic issues that are undermining economic development in the region. A concern is that the natural resources
have limited capacity to support and service further development opportunities within the BRM.
Eco-tourism is seen as a potential avenue for the generation of additional revenue in the BRM. Given the relatively
small population of the area and the constraints in the two core economic sectors, tourism must be seen as the only
significant driving force for growth of the Bergrivier towns. Activities within tourism would stimulate local
investment, employment and economic growth but the seasonal, temporary or part-time nature of such jobs and
activities distinctly suppresses the overall impact.
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1.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC
INDICATORS
Learners attending a class at a primary school in the
BRM. Education is a major concern in the area.
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a summary
measurement of human development based on three
dimensions namely life expectancy, education and
income. The BRM has an HDI of 0,66, which is lower
than that of neighbouring municipalities.
The skills levels in the municipal area are cause for
concern. In 2006, thirty percent (30%) of the
population older than 14 years were illiterate.
Existing skills initiatives in the municipal area should
be intensified to create a suitability skilled
workforce.
In 2007 only 4% of the population had access to social
grants, a figure that is the lowest in the municipal
district. However, child support grants constituted
55 % of the total grants accessed in the municipal
area. This phenomenon highlights the prevalence of
teenage pregnancies in the municipal area. Only 26%
of the social grants accessed were for old age
pensioners.
Drug-related crimes increased from 299 incidences in
2002/03 to 954 incidences in 2004/05. The increase in
drug abuse is attributed to the substance “Tik”. Most
teenagers are vulnerable to exposure to this drug. A
study commissioned by the University of Cape Town
on the prevalence of alcohol abuse and Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome (FAS) in the municipal area found a high
incidence of both (Bergrivier Strategic Review 2010).
The BRM mission is to deliver cost effective,
sustainable services with a well represented army
of employees who are motivated to stimulate local
economic development as well as environmentally
sensitive development through transparent
decision-making based on sound management
principles within the ambit of unique character and
cultural, historical heritage.
1.6 THE LOCAL AUTHORITY
The BRM is divided into seven wards. Delivery of
services is managed from the head office, which is
situated in Piketberg. There are nine settlements
within the BRM, of which three can be classified as
major towns within the context of Bergrivier, namely
Piketberg, Porterville and Velddrif. The March 2008
version of the Bergrivier Integrated Development
Plan 2008/2009 provides for a capital budget of R
67,418,000.00 and an operating budget of R
159,190,489.00. The payment of rates and taxes
contributes 17% and services (infrastructure) another
32.4% to the total income of the Municipality (Spatial
Development Plan 2008).
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Fish are salted and hung out to dry at Velddrif to make
bokkems, a traditional South African dish.
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BIODIVERSITY ASSETS
2.1 BRM VISION AND MISSION FOR BIODIVERSITY
Vision: To develop the Bergrivier Municipality in a sustainable manner through the integration of effective administration,
biodiversity conservation and maintenance of environmental goods and services, development planning and growth of
the local economy.
Mission: To achieve the sustainable development of the Bergrivier Municipality through: (1.) effective conservation and
environmental management of important biodiversity features; (2.) co-operative governance and collaboration with
industry, civil society and communities; (3.) growth of the local economy; (4.) effective administration, land use and
development planning and decision making.
2.2 DEFINITION OF BIODIVERSITY
There is no universally accepted definition for biodiversity.
Biodiversity in the BRM comprises the variety of ecosystems and includes the diversity of living organisms found in
the different vegetation types, freshwater and marine ecosystems as well as the genetic variety between individuals
and between different species
2.3 WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY?
Biodiversity is a relatively new, technical term for nature (Maree & Vromans 2010). The definition above, however,
refers to two aspects of the natural worldaroundus. Firstly it refers to its physical structure and properties (species,
populations, communities) but also to the interactions that are continually taking place between these different
components. These two parts are called biodiversity pattern and ecological process. In the case of the BRM
biodiversity pattern is present as different vegetation types, as Sandstone Fynbos, Sand Fynbos, Strandveld or the
different aquatic systems of wetlands, inland salt pans and estuaries (See Map 3 & 4). This pattern would include the
populations of rare and endangered species that occur and that are specific to the municipal area.
Ecological processes are those actions and interactions that enable the natural world around us to function in a
healthy way. These processes may operate on a very small scale, including, for instance, bacteria binding nitrogen in
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the soil or bees pollinating plants. They are also active on a much larger scale, as in the cases of a river in flood, the
migration of fish along river systems or the movement of sand along a coastline.
It doesn't take much thought to realise that these two parts of biodiversity are interdependent. A degraded river
may cause a dramatic decline in water quantity, quality and species numbers and interrupt migratory patterns, or
soil chemistry may change through agricultural use and alter nutrient cycling by micro fauna & flora.
Lastly there are ecological drivers that maintain pattern and process: Examples include fires raging through
thousands of hectares of fynbos, rainfall, temperature or very large herds of grazing wildebeest moving across the
landscape.
2.4 DEFINITION OF ECOSYSTEMS
An ecosystem is a complex of living organisms, their
physical environment, and all their
interrelationships in the area that they occupy. It
includes the non-biological constituents such as
minerals, climate, soil, water, sunlight, and all other
nonliving elements together with the biological or
living constituents.
Ecosystems can therefore operate at the very small scale of,
say, the saline pool on the top of a sandstone outcrop in the
Sandveld to a whole wetland covering many hectares to a
mountain catchments area covering thousands of hectares. The
complexity of the natural systems around us has required simplification for
use in practical planning. In South Africa scientists have chosen the planning unit
of a vegetation type as a surrogate for biodiversity.
2.5 IMPORTANCE OF BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEMS
The take home message is that the world has lost too much of its biodiversity already and that each of us has the
responsibility to halt this trend. Approximately 60% of the Earth's ecosystem services have been degraded in the
last 50 years with human impacts being at the cause of this degradation (Millenium Ecosystem Assessment 2005 in
Sukhdev 2008). The loss of biodiversity is a threat to the functioning of the planet, our economies and human
livelihoods. No world economy no matter how small or how large exists independently of the environment.
According to Sukhdev (2008) there are two major learning challenges that we face today. Firstly we are still learning
the “nature of value”, as we broaden our concept of “capital” to encompass human capital, social capital and
natural capital. By recognising and seeking to grow or conserve these forms of capital we are slowly working our
way towards sustainability.
Secondly we are challenged by the juxtaposition in that we are struggling to determine the “value of nature”. Even
though nature is omnipresent in our daily lives it is unrecognised by the markets, escapes pricing and defies
evaluation. The degradation of our natural systems is driven by our inability to value ecosystems and biodiversity
(Sukhdev 2008).
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity interim report provides clarity on a number of key issues that
underlie the challenges we are facing in achieving sustainability. The first realisation that poverty and the
degradation of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity are inextricably intertwined. This primarily because the poor of
the world live very close to the natural systems that they occupy and benefit directly from the services that they
supply. If we are to be of service to the poor of the world we have to ensure that these communities live in an
environment that is able to deliver these services to them. The second is an issue of ethics risks, uncertainty and
discounting the future. We need to include an evaluation of risks such as the loss of ecosystem service and climate
change in our decision making. We as humans are at the root of the problem it therefore follows that we have the
ethical responsibility to be part of the solution by doing the right thing. We cannot extract benefit from the
environment on a short term basis if the value of the commodity has a greater value in the future.
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Air quality
Pollination
Most plants
and many crops
are animalpollinated
Green plants
purify air, free
oxygen
Climate
Ecosystems as
carbon sinks
prevent global
warming
Decomposing
of toxic waste by
organisms
Food security
All our food
comes from
biodiversity
Pest control
is 99% done
by natural
predators
Environmental
goods and services
Water quality
and purification
by wetlands
Disaster
prevention by
soil-binding
plants
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Soil quality
Generated and
maintained by
microbes
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The wellbeing of every human population in the world is fundamentally and directly dependent on ecosystem
services (Sukhdev 2008). More than a billion people world wide are directly dependent on fisheries, climate change
could decrease the availability of water and fundamentally undermine water dependent economies and
communities, human health will be impacted through the loss of biodiversity 50% of prescription drugs are sourced
from naturally occurring plants that are threatened with extinction. Any farmyard in the Swartland or Sandveld
may be wheat, barley, rye, maize, cattle, goats, sheep & horses. All of these agricultural products were obtained
from the naturally occurring biodiversity of the grasslands of the world.
Consider the freshwater fishing industry, the global
annual catch is estimated at 14 million metric tonnes
valued at $18.2 billion. The freshwater angling
Because of our total dependence on biodiversity for
industry is valued at 16 billion and if the service
food, building materials, water, etc., it is absolutely
industry that supports this form of utilisation is
essential that biodiversity is integrated into land
included the value jumps to $46 billion. If this is the
use, planning and decision making at a local scale.
worth of a single industry, consider what economic
It is at the core of a sustainable future for US ALL!
values are generated by hunting, harvesting of
natural timber, waxes, fruits, nuts, fuel wood and
extracts that are important for the manufacture of
insecticides, colorants, flavourants, dyes, tannins. Many of these goods are in decline as a result of habitat
transformation. One may ask oneself how important they have in the development of human civilisation and the
pattern of occupation and land use within the municipal boundaries.
It is highly recommended that the TEEB report for administrators is consulted when it is released in September 2010.
The report aims to:
3
Showcase examples of how biodiversity has been incorporated in local policy and public management through
valuation;
3
Give an overview of how assessments, including evaluation, can improve biodiversity related decision-making
at a local scale, and
3
Provide an orientation for administrators on how to choose the right evaluation instruments to suit the local
circumstances.
It is, however, of greatest importance to keep in mind that, these ecosystem goods and services are delivered to
people through populations of species going about their lives, interacting with each other and the physical
environment they live in while adapting to ever changing circumstances. The term used to describe this is
biodiversity. Biodiversity and ecosystem goods and services are inextricably linked. The loss of biodiversity means
the loss of ecosystem goods and services and impacts negatively on human livelihoods.
It is widely accepted that ecological systems (services) and the natural capital stocks (goods) that support them are
critical for the functioning of the earth's life support systems. Global ecosystem services are estimated at $ 16-54
trillion (1012) per annum. The average is $ 33 trillion p/a as a minimum estimate. Consider that the global Gross
National Product (GNP) is $ 18 trillion per annum. Natural environment's ecosystem services supply a service free
of charge that is conservatively estimated to be close to double that of the global GNP. The destruction of those
services will increasingly have to be borne by the economies of the world and locally by the Local Authorities of
South Africa.
In South Africa, the total value of ecosystems is conservatively estimated at R27 billion per annum. This estimate
includes the production of biological resources as well as the final consumption of ecosystem services. The
calculated value of biodiversity-dependent industries in the greater Cape region amounts to approximately R9,4
billion. In 2000 it was estimated that the pollinating services of bees to the fruit and honey industries amounted to
R594 million, while in 2003, bird-watching tourism generated R16 million (Maree & Vromans 2010). In the case of the
BRM it is possibly most relevant that nature based tourism for the Cape Floristic Region was valued at R 7.4 billion
per year (Turpie et al., 2003).
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2.6 THE ECOSYSTEM DIVERSITY OF THE BRM
The municipality is situated in the Fynbos Biome which takes its name, unsurprisingly, from fynbos (derived
from the Dutch 'fijn-bosch') the dominant vegetation of the region. Fynbos comprises three quite different
vegetation types - fynbos, renosterveld and strandveld - all of which occur within the boundaries of the
municipality. Fynbos is characterised by small-leafed evergreen shrubs that have an intimate relationship with
fire. The BRM is topographically very variable and supports a mosaic of geological formations, altitudinal
gradients, terrestrial habitats and important wetland and estuarine systems.
South Africa is an exceptionally species-rich country: In fact, in terms of plants and animals it is the third richest
in the world. In the Western Cape this is particularly true as this is the home of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR),
the only floristic region in the world to occur wholly within the borders of a single country. The CFR is contained
in the Northern arm of the Fynbos Biome. The Western Cape not only has 9 000 of the 18 000 flowering plant
species found in South Africa, but of even greater importance is the fact that 70% of the species occurring in the
Western Cape are unique to the region and occur nowhere else on the planet (Davis et al 1994). Half of the
country's plant species occur in the CFR and 20 of the 21 critically endangered vegetation types are located in the
CFR.
The Bergrivier Municipal area therefore supports some of the most important biodiversity on the planet, and is
one of the 34 globally identified biodiversity hotspots.
The natural habitats were shaped over millions of years through climatic and geological events, species
inhabiting the environment and more recently due to impacts associated with natural resource use by humans.
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TABLE 2: PERCENTAGE OF A VEGETATION TYPE OCCURRING IN THE BRM
Values of 100% indicate that the vegetation type occurs
in the municipality only and nowhere else on earth.
Vegetation Type
Cape Estuarine Salt Marshes
Cape Inland Salt Pans
Cape Lowland Freshwater Wetlands
Cape Seashore Vegetation
Cape Vernal Pools
Cederberg Sandstone Fynbos
Doringrivier Quartzite Karoo
Graafwater Sandstone Fynbos
Hopefield Sand Fynbos
Langebaan Dune Strandveld
Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos
Northern Inland Shale Band Vegetation
Olifants Sandstone Fynbos
Piketberg Quartz Succulent Shrubland
Piketberg Sandstone Fynbos
ha Flats Strandveld
Saldanah
Swartland Alluvium Renosterveld
Swartland Shale Renosterveld
Swartland Silcrete Renosterveld
Western Altimontane Sandstone Fynbos
Winterhoek Sandstone Fynbos
% Vegetation
in Bergrivier
49.55%
9.84%
26.80%
1.39%
61.57%
1.15%
0.16%
6.59%
52.22%
15.22%
27.43%
8.95%
13.97%
90.80%
100%
32.12%
11.58%
28.09%
16.12%
2.77%
22.75%
PIKETBERG MOUNTAIN
The Piketberg mountain is a
geological “island” (inselberg) of
Table Mountain Sandstone in the sea
of shale and acid sands that
characterise this area of the
Swartland. This leads to a high
number (more than 20) of endemic
plant species on the mountain.
Another botanical oddity is a small
“lost” population of the small tree
Pseudoscolopia polyantha, far away from
its home range in the Eastern Cape
and Southern KZN region (Maree &
Vromans, 2010).
According to Maree and Vromans (2010) the municipality is home to Piketberg Sandstone Fynbos, which
occurs in this municipality and nowhere else in the world. In other words, it is endemic to the
municipality. Piketberg Quartz Succulent Shrubland is a near endemic with more than 90% of the
vegetation type within the municipality. See Table 2:
The percentage of a vegetation type occurring in the
BRM. As stated above, in South Africa, vegetation
The CFR as a whole is regarded as a biodiversity
types are the measure of biodiversity at a landscape
hotspot because it meets the requirement of a
scale and are represented in Map 3: Former Extent of
region that contains at least 1 500 species of
Vegetation Types in the BRM and Map 4: Current Extent
vascular plants (> 0.5 percent of the world's
of
Vegetation Types in the BRM. There is an ongoing in
total) as endemics, and that has lost at least 70
intensification
and expansion of the agricultural
percent of its original habitat (Hotspot definition
footprint
and
development
footprint in the BRM that
from Conservation International website)
severely threatens the terrestrial, aquatic and estuarine
ecosystems.
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MAP 3: FORMER EXTENT OF VEGETATION IN THE BRM
MAP 4: CURRENT EXTENT OF VEGETATION IN THE BRM
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2.7 TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY: VEGETATION TYPES
Summarised from Helme 2007 and Mucina & Rutherford 2006
CAPE SEASHORE VEGETATION
Position and features of the landscape: In the BRM typically found on relatively young, white, alkaline, fine
grained dune sands, and thus mostly confined to a narrow coastal strip of stabilised, semi-mobile or mobile dunes
between Velddrif and Elandsbaai. This vegetation is absent from rocky shorelines, and as it occurs on well-drained
soils, it is not associated with wetlands. Plant community variation reflects the age of the substrate (often related
to distance from the sea), natural disturbance regime (dune stability), distance from the high water mark, and the
exposure of dune slopes (leeward versus seaward; Mucina & Rutherford 2006).
Climate: Low rainfall, and often exposed to sea fogs and mist, which keep it significantly cooler than more inland
vegetation types, even in midsummer. Highly saline in places, exposed to windblown sea spray, especially in
winter, when onshore northwesterly winds
predominate.
Vegetation structure:
Grasses dominate the
vegetation type with low shrubs (<0.4m) high.
There are no trees or large shrubs. Fairly high
degree of succulence, as evidenced by species that
span various vegetation types and which are not as
succulent in other vegetation types (eg. Senecio
littoreus; Cineraria geifolia), and a number of genera
whose only succulent species occur in this coastal
habitat (eg. Hebenstreitia, Dischisma). Annuals may
be common.
Many species adapted to being
covered by mobile sands (eg. Psoralea repens), and
thus able to root at nodes. Few geophyte species,
but those that there are may be prominent (eg.
Trachyandra divaricata).
Key areas requiring conservation: Within the BRM this vegetation type is conserved in the Rocher Pan Nature
Reserve. The habitat is well conserved and varies little across its distribution. The location of conservation areas to
conserve Cape Seashore Vegetation is therefore not especially important.
Management guidelines: As a pioneer plant community, Cape seashore vegetation is relatively resilient to
disturbance. The habitat is sensitive to disturbance from off-road vehicles and occasionally trampling and
construction, in particular the area around Dwarskersbos and Laaiplek. No vehicles should be allowed, and
access by the public should be along raised boardwalks to minimise impacts. Fortunately this vegetation type can
be easily rehabilitated.
CAPE ESTUARINE SALTMARSH
Position and features of the landscape: Within the municipality this vegetation community is only found at the
Berg River Mouth. This permanent wetland is found on very shallow, silty alluvial terraces within the tidal zone
and is defined by presence of seawater and high salinity.
Climate: Characterised by low rainfall. The microclimate is cool due to adjacency to the sea with associated mist
and fog. It is exposed to strong coastal winds throughout the year.
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Vegetation structure: A Cape estuarine salt marsh looks like a meadow and is dominated by herbs and
grasses. All the vegetation is short and shrubby and most species are succulent (eg. Sarcocornia species) and
Salicornia meyeriana, Triglochin spp., Plantago crassifolia). Relatively low botanical diversity when compared
to other terrestrial systems.
Special species: These estuarine
salt marshes are particularly
important to migratory waders
that visit our shores during
summer.
Key areas requiring
conservation: The Berg River
Estuary is under severe pressure
and urgently requires formal
conservation status, as it is
extremely important from an
ecological perspective.
Management guidelines: The
Berg River Estuary is very
vulnerable to industrialisation
and urban development both
within the estuary and along the
shoreline. Estuarine salt marshes
are characterised by very high levels of productivity, which explains their importance in providing food to
migratory birds and as a spawning ground for inshore fish species. This area should be formally
conserved due to its regional, national and international importance.
CAPE INLAND SALT PANS
Position and features of the landscape: These are natural depressions in the landscape that accumulate
water. In sandy areas where they occur, their presence can usually be ascribed to an impenetrable clay or
calcrete layer below the sand. These seasonal wetlands are extremely arid in summer. All are saline, some
are extremely so, to the extent that they support vegetation along their verges only. Cape inland salt pans
are common between Velddrif and Rocher Pan.
Climate: Characterised by low rainfall. The microclimate is cool due to adjacency to the sea with
associated mist and fog.
Vegetation structure: There are no large trees, and small succulent shrubs and true succulents dominate
(eg. Drosanthemum spp., Sarcocornia spp. and Salicornia meyeriana, Triglochin spp., Plantago crassifolia). There
is a relatively low botanical diversity in this biologically harsh environment.
Special species: Four “vygie” species are specialists of this habitat. Drosanthemum salicola is known from
salt marshes from Nuwerus to Langebaan; Lampranthus salicola is known from this habitat in the Sandveld
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and Saldanha regions, and Dorotheanthus clavatus and Erepsia brevipetala occur in the greater Hopefield
district. All four species are poorly known, and probably threatened.
Key areas requiring conservation: If one were to select areas especially in need of conservation, these
would be the extensive salt marshes north of the Berg River and along the Sout River (tributary of the Berg
River), with a number of rare and threatened plant species, as well as the Rocher Pan area. Many of the
most important patches are small, and occur along the outer edges of seasonal wetlands.
Management guidelines: These habitats
have no agricultural potential and are often
treated as waste ground. As a result, these
areas are often used as dumpsites or as
recreational areas, for off-road vehicles
such as quad bikes. No vehicles should be
allowed into these areas and stock should
be fenced out. Alien invasive plants - in
particular rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) and
Port Jackson (Acacia saligna) are a problem
in areas where these salt pans are less
saline. The management of the
underground water resource in the area is
of paramount importance, as overuse of
this resource will negatively impact this
vegetation type.
CAPE LOWLAND FRESHWATER WETLANDS
Position and features of the landscape: Found in a variety of situations, from upland seepage areas and
streams to lowland floodplains. These are seasonally inundated areas that are situated above the tidal
zone.
Climate: The climate is not a major determinant for
this vegetation type, as it is typically associated
with winter rains.
Vegetation structure: Floodplains characterised by
low grassland, with sedges dominant and
occasional pools with floating aquatic plants.
Taller shrubs may occur on slightly better drained
soils. Dense patches of Typha and Phragmites reeds
may occur where water channels get deeper,
usually in areas of permanent water. In seepages
and upland areas, an often dense shrubland
(restios and Erica may be common), with reeds less
common. Numerous alien invasive species are a
feature, including Eucalyptus cladocalyx (red river gum), Acacia saligna (Port Jackson), Acacia longifolia,
Sesbania punicea, Polygonum lapathifolium and Eichornia crassipes (water hyacinth).
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Special species: The lowland floodplains are not known to support many special plant species, but are of major
importance for vertebrates such as frogs and birds.
Key areas requiring conservation: Excellent examples of the silty floodplains are present from approximately 3km
north of Velddrif to the Kersefontein area.
Management guidelines: These habitats support palatable plants and areas that are often heavily grazed and
trampled by cattle. Cattle and horses should be kept out of these areas in the rainy season between May and
October. The availability of water makes them susceptible to invasion by alien plants. Any diversion of water away
from a wetland or disturbance within the wetland, such as digging of dams or sump pits, should be avoided.
HOPEFIELD SAND FYNBOS
Position and features of the landscape: Occurs on flat plains with deep acid sands and no outcropping bedrock.
Underlain by shale that is visible in places, notably along riverbanks. The very few rivers cutting through this
landscape thus tend to support a thin band of Renosterveld type vegetation where shale is exposed as a result of
erosion. It reaches its northernmost extent around Aurora, where the composition of Proteaceae, Geraniaceae and
certain Asteraceae changes to reflect transition to more arid Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos. North of the Berg River it
forms a mosaic with Flats Strandveld, which can be regarded as a diffuse and extensive ecotone (transition area)
between the two main types.
Climate:
Climate is not a major driver of this
vegetation type. Typical winter rainfall area, with hot,
dry, windy summers, and a high incidence of fog in
autumn and winter.
Vegetation structure: Medium to tall fire-prone shrubland. Restios and ericoid shrubs of various families
predominant, but Proteaceae may be co-dominant in
places.
Scattered thicket (strandveld) elements,
notably Gymnosporia buxifolia and Euclea tomentosa.
Annuals abundant, especially after fire. Geophytes
may be common, but most species shared with other
Sand Fynbos systems.
Special species: Red Data listed Proteaceae in this area
(north of the Berg River) includes Leucospermum rodolentum (widespread in west coast area), L.
hypophyllocarpodendron spp. L. canaliculatum (Aurora to Milnerton), Leucadendron foedum (mainly Hopefield area),
Serruria decipiens (Graafwater to Melkbos), and Serruria fucifolia (Gifberg to Hopefield). Other rare/threatened or
endemic species include Aspalathus albens, A. ternata, Lachnaea capitata, Lachnaea grandiflora, Phylica harveyi, Phylica
thunbergiana, Metalasia adunca, Nemesia strumosa, Lampranthus explanatus, Relhania rotundifolia (often in clay lenses),
Oxalis suavis (common but very local endemic around Hopefield), and Lepidium flexuosum (poorly known).
Metalasia capitata shared with neighbouring Sand Fynbos types.
Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation type is very poorly conserved, with large areas transformed by
agriculture and invaded by aliens. However, large intact areas still remain and these should be the focus of
conservation efforts, especially where these include ecotonal elements (such as clay lenses and Renosterveld
contact zones, and upland elements such as those found near Aurora), and where they border existing public or
private conservation areas.
Management Guidelines: Major pressure sources are agriculture (potatoes, rooibos, wheat) and alien invasive
plants (mainly Acacia saligna and A. cyclops). The removal of alien invaders should be regarded as a priority for this
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vegetation type. The carrying capacity of this vegetation type is low, and the stocking of game reserves should be
well controlled and closely monitored to prevent the degradation of this habitat. No further transformation of good
quality examples of this vegetation type should be authorised, unless offset by significant conservation gains in
accordance with the latest regional guidelines for biodiversity offsets (Department of Environmental Affairs and
Development Planning 2007). These guidelines suggest that for every 1ha of intact habitat lost, at least 15ha of the
same quality should be conserved.
LEIPOLDTVILLE SAND FYNBOS
Position and features of the landscape: This vegetation type is one that is heavily targeted by agriculture, in
particular for strip cultivation of cereals, potato and, to a lesser extent, rooibos production. Leipoldtville Sand
Fynbos occupies the well-drained sandy coastal plain
Climate: Typical for the region, low rainfall with hot,
dry summers, and mild winters. Most areas experience
a limited number of days with morning coastal fog.
Vegetation structure: Medium to tall shrubland, with
prominent Restionaceae, Proteaceae, Fabaceae
(Aspalathus), Polygalaceae (Nylandtia), relatively few
succulents or deciduous species, and many annuals.
Geophytes are fairly diverse, but not abundant.
Special species: This vegetation type is exceptionally
rich in special species, which is one of the primary
reasons for concern about the high rate of habitat loss in
the area. Species totally or largely restricted to this unit
include Albuca clanwilliamigloria, Athanasia sertulifera,
Cullumia floccosa, C. micracantha, Felicia josephinae, Heterorachis sp. nov., Steirodiscus capillaceus, Wahlenbergia
constricta, Erica dregei, Pelargonium appendiculatum, P. attentuatum, P.
fasciculaceum, Babiana confusa, Geissorhiza barkerae, G. louisabolusiae, Limonium
sp. nov., Leucadendron brunioides var. flumenlupinum, Leucospermum
arenarium, Lotononis racemiflora, Agathosma insignis, A. involucrata,
Macrostylis hirta, Dischisma squarrosum, and Manulea pillansii. Additional
rare and/or threatened species found within this unit inlude Caesia sp. nov.,
Babiana scabrifolia,
Euchaetis tricarpellata, Leucadendron procerum, L.
loranthifolium, Serruria fucifolia, S. decipiens, Leucospermum rodolentum,
Lachnaea capitata, L. grandiflora, Eriospermum arenosum, Lebeckia leucoclada,
Argyrolobium velutinum, Lotononis bolusii, and Phylica cuspidata. Aspalathus
rostripetala is known only from one collection, possibly in this habitat, north
of Citrusdal.
Sandveld Lachenalia
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Key areas requiring conservation: This unit is poorly known botanically,
with both Cullumia micracantha and C. floccosa (fairly large perennial shrubs)
not having been collected for over 100 years. The remaining areas of this
vegetation type should be considered to be irreplaceable. Within the
municipal boundary particularly important areas for conservation of
endemic species are areas around Aurora, between Redelinghuys and the
Engelsman se Baken area (Driefonteinberg and areas to south), the area
ffrom Redelinghuys to Paleisheuwel (including Ratelrug).
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Management guidelines: Given the
exceptional concentration of rare,
A NEW INSECT ORDER: THE SANDVELD HEEL WALKER
threatened, and localised species in
this unit, the ongoing and rapid
Small invertebrates have not been adequately sampled or much
transformation of this habitat by
researched in this part of the world. From the groups that are better
agriculture is of major national
known, such as the butterflies and dragonflies, it is evident that
conservation concern, made worse
many species are under threat and some species have already been
by the fact that no formal
lost. A new order of insects, Mantophasmatodea, was recently
conservation areas protect this
discovered in Southern Africa, and the Sandveld hosts one of the
vegetation type. In this regard the
14 species of this group, the Sandveld heel walker (Karoophasma
Greater Cederberg Biodiversity
biedouwensis). This species shelters at the base of the restios that
Corridor (GCBC) project is of critical
grow prolifically on the sandy soils of the Sandveld. Their chosen
importance, as it seeks to involve
habitat make them very vulnerable to ploughing.
private landowners in conserving
key portions of natural habitat in this
area. Agricultural transformation,
primarily for potatoes and rooibos, is by far the most important pressure on this habitat, along with the associated
effects such as a drop in the water table, which may result in the death of entire groundwater-dependent
ecosystems. No further transformation of good quality examples of this vegetation type should be authorised
unless offset by significant conservation gains, in accordance with the latest regional guidelines for biodiversity
offsets (Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning 2007). These guidelines suggest that for
every 1ha of intact habitat lost, at least 15ha of the same quality should be conserved. Overgrazing of certain areas
is also a major problem, and alien invasive plants (primarily Acacia) are an issue in places, especially in wetlands.
This is a fire-driven system, but an appropriate fire frequency is likely to be once every 15 to 25yrs, given the
relatively dry climate and slow growth rates.
SWARTLAND SILCRETE RENOSTERVELD
Position and features of the landscape: This is a rare and unusual form of Renosterveld characterized by a stony
substrate, usually dominated by silcretes (cement-like silica deposits sometimes mistaken for quartzite), but may
also feature ferricretes (koffieklip). Usually occurs within Swartland Shale Renosterveld areas. Rocky nature
means that it is often found on highpoints and breaks of slope (eg. upper convex slopes of river banks). Usually
less densely vegetated than typical Shale Renosterveld, and thus often
heavily eroded. Although it may appear degraded at first glance, this is
its natural state.
Climate: Hot, dry summers, and fairly high incidence of fog in winter
and autumn.
Vegetation structure: Usually a fairly sparse vegetation cover, with large
bare areas of exposed silcrete or ferricrete. Low succulent shrubs
dominate, with various bulbs and annuals. Floristically not very distinct
from Shale Renosterveld, but structurally tends to be shorter and sparser,
with a greater concentration of special species.
Special species: In this region a number of Lampranthus species are
regarded as being of conservation concern, including L. dilutus and L.
filicaulis. Muraltia trinervia and M. origanoides are both of conservation
concern. A number of rare bulb species may be present.
Key areas requiring conservation: All remaining examples of this habitat
should receive the highest conservation priority rating, due to its very
limited extent, and large number of rare, localised, or undescribed
species. Formal conservation of this habitat type is essential.
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Management guidelines: Due to the perception of this often sparsely vegetated rocky habitat as waste ground
(“afvalgrond”) it is very vulnerable to transformation and damage. Existing pressures include quarrying for road
gravel, road construction, dumping, and recreational use by off-road vehicles. The succulents and shallow soils
are also extremely sensitive to trampling and crushing by stock, especially cattle.
SWARTLAND SHALE RENOSTERVELD
Position and Features of the Landscape: In the municipality this lowland habitat is present along the base of the
Piketberg, in the northwestern Swartland, and in isolated patches where shales are present at the surface, often
along riverbanks and at the base of hills. It is restricted to shale-derived clays, occasionally with outcropping shale,
ferricrete, and even quartz pebbles. Soils may be well-drained to seasonally waterlogged. Heuweltjies (eroded,
inactive termite mounds) are occasionally a feature.
Climate: Typical winter rains and summer drought. Strong winds are not a factor driving vegetation structure.
Some areas may get significant early morning mist and
fog, especially in autumn and winter.
Vegetation structure: Low, relatively open shrubland,
with many deciduous elements and a high species
diversity. Succulents and annuals may be common, and
geophytes are a particular feature of this unit, especially
after fire. Trees are usually rare, except along streams.
Restios (mostly Calopsis viminea and Ischyrolepis capensis)
may be present, but are never dominant. Often very
grassy in the first few years after a fire (especially
Ehrharta, Tribolium, and Pentaschistis spp.). This is
usually a fire-driven vegetation type.
Special species: This vegetation type is packed with
rare and threatened species. Portions of this type found
within the municipality are poorly known. Those that
occur within the study area include a new species of
Apatesia (vygie), a new species of Geissorhiza, a possible new species of Diosma (buchu), Athanasia adenantha, Erepsia
ramosa, Hesperantha pallescens, and Lampranthus dilutus. The rare Babiana longiflora was only described in 2004 and is
known mainly from this unit along the base of the Piketberg mountain, and the rare Babiana inclinata was only
described in 2007.
Key areas requiring conservation: All Renosterveld areas are conservation priorities, but particularly important
are the slopes around the base of the Piketberg, which have produced a number of new species in the last few
years. Special areas known to be important are the Weltevrede Kleigat area north of Engelsman se Baken (home to
2 new species), and some of the shales northwest of Aurora.
Management guidelines: This is normally a fire-driven system, and should be burnt on a cycle of once every ten to
twenty years, although some sparse, succulent dominated examples may be fire-resistant. The threat of alien
invasive grasses (such as Lolium and Avena spp.) is particularly severe in the post-fire environment, and this can be
minimised by locating stock feeding points (which contain alien grass seeds) at least 300m away from Renosterveld
areas.
NORTHERN INLAND SHALE BAND VEGETATION
Position and features of the landscape: This vegetation type is not unique to the study area and extends far to the
south, into the Ceres district. The shale band is a narrow feature (50 to 300m wide) running along the slopes of the
Groot Winterhoek. As the shales are softer than the adjacent sandstones, they weather more quickly and evenly,
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and thus often form low points (saddles) in the landscape, with a smoother, concave profile. Heuweltjies may be
present. The soils range from well-drained to waterlogged in winter.
Climate: Variable, but essentially hot and dry in summer and mild to cold in winter, occasionally with snow in
upper elevations.
Vegetation structure: Low to medium shrubland,
getting shorter in arid areas and at higher altitudes.
May include waboomveld (Protea nitida) and
substantial grassy elements, especially after fire.
Special species: Within the study area very few
special species are known to be strictly associated with
this vegetation type, as many shale band specials are
widely distributed (e.g. Cederberg to Hex River
Mountains), or concentrated in the mountains outside
the municipality.
Key areas requiring conservation: This largely
montane vegetation type is well conserved within the
Cederberg Wilderness Area and Groot Winterhoek
Wilderness Area, and no specific areas requiring
additional conservation have been identified.
Management guidelines: This vegetation type has hardly been transformed, due mostly to its montane nature and
occurrence within formal conservation areas. Small portions (<5%) have been impacted by roads, gravel quarrying,
protea farming, and pine plantations. This is a fire driven system, and is burned regularly across most of its range.
BERG RIVER FLATS STRANDVELD - SAND FYNBOS MOSAIC
Synonyms: This is a new vegetation type, previously mapped as Hopefield Sand Fynbos by Mucina & Rutherford
(2006).
Position and features of the landscape: This is essentially an extremely diffuse mosaic ecotone between Saldanha
Flats Strandveld (which is itself something of an ecotone) and Hopefield/Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos. The unit is
found primarily north of the Berg River, extending up to the Aurora area, and then in a thin band almost to Elands
Bay. It is very clear both on the satellite imagery and on the ground as a discrete unit, due to the patchy soil patterns
that have produced a patchy agricultural pattern. Landowners have typically ploughed the Flats Strandveld areas
and left the patches of purer Sand Fynbos, reflecting former agricultural trends of planting wheat. With a shift to
rooibos and potato cultivation this may change, with the remaining Sand Fynbos areas coming under pressure.
The landscape is a generally flat to gently rolling plain either side of the Berg River. A mosaic of loamy sands (Flats
Strandveld) and acid sands (Sand Fynbos) have produced the observed vegetation patterns. Underlying clays are
evident in places, especially where the sands are thin or absent, and seasonal pans have formed in the depressions.
Some significant linear seasonal wetlands occur in the area, such as the Sout River, and due to the slightly saline
clays in these areas they tend to support Salt Pan type vegetation.
Climate: Hot, dry and windy summers, with a fairly high incidence of morning mist in the Berg River Valley. True
sea fogs seldom penetrate this far inland. It can be expected that rainfall is slightly higher towards the mountainous
area behind Aurora.
Vegetation structure: Characterised by elements of both Flats Strandveld and Sand Fynbos, with a high percentage
of restios, some succulents and patches of Proteaceae. As befits the mosaic nature of the vegetation type, the plant
communities can be very patchy, with up to 50% community changeover in less than 100m. Due to the mapping
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scale it was not possible to distinguish these as discrete units, and hence the choice of designating a mosaic
vegetation type.
Special species: Special species from both parent vegetation types occur in the area, including Leucospermum
rodolentum, L. hypophyllocarpodendron ssp. canaliculatum, Leucadendron foedum, Serruria decipiens, Serruria fucifolia,
Phylica thunbergiana, Metalasia adunca, and Metalasia capitata. Lepidium flexuosum, Passerina filiformis ssp. glutinosa,
and Manulea augei are all poorly known species that may occur here. Babiana petiolata and B. confusa are regional
endemics. Ursinia sp. nov. is a new species that is largely endemic to this unit (north of the Berg River), extending
into pure Flats Strandveld in places. Freylinia visseri is a very rare species found only in this vegetation type north of
the Berg River.
Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation type is extremely fragmented by agriculture, and it is suggested
that conservation priorities be guided by the largest contiguous patches and known occurrences of Red Data Book
listed species. It is also important to include as many seasonal pans and wetlands (including the Sout River) as
possible, as these provide important habitat variation.
Management Guidelines: Main pressures are agriculture (wheat, rooibos, and potatoes), and alien plant invasion.
Establishment of further large centre pivot operations, and new rooibos fields should be restricted to existing
lands, and should not be allowed in areas with known Red Data Book species. Rooibos cultivation should
incorporate windrow strips of natural vegetation, as this provides windbreaks for the young plants, prevents
erosion, and is a valuable source of natural plant material for rehabilitation, in addition to being a habitat for
animals and plants. Control of alien invasive plants (mainly Acacia cyclops and A. saligna) is a priority in many areas.
LANGEBAAN DUNE STRANDVELD
Position and features of the landscape: Widely distributed, ranging from Bokbaai in the south to Rocher Pan and
Dwarskersbos in the north. Surprisingly large areas on its inland fringes were ploughed many decades ago, often
making the boundary between this and Saldanha Flats Strandveld difficult to pinpoint. Found on calcareous
(alkaline) dune sands and poorly developed calcretes mixed with sand.
Climate: Hot, dry, and windy summer conditions, with some areas cooled by regular overnight and early morning
sea fogs, especially in autumn. Strong onshore winds in winter may stunt vegetation close to the shore, due to
high salt levels.
Vegetation structure: Usually a mixed
shrubland of 0.5 to 2m tall, with Thicket
elements especially common where
there are shallow sands over calcretes.
Fire not a major driver of dynamics total
period of stability and substrate type are
more important. Younger areas with
much less Thicket component, and may
be dominated by low shrubs and grasses.
Relatively low succulent diversity, but
these species may be common.
Geophytes not a major feature, but
spring annuals can be spectacular on the
sandy soils. North of the Berg River this
vegetation type becomes less speciesrich, with a notable drop in the number
of special species.
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GRANT'S GOLDEN
MOLE
(Eremitalpa granti)
This is a small mammal,
unrelated to true moles, with a
total length of 7,0 to 8,5 cm and
with a mass of 16 to 32 g. Because
they live underground, they do
not have eyes. Although the
juveniles are born with eyes, a
thick layer of skin soon covers
the eyes and they become totally
blind in adulthood. These
animals are listed by the IUCN as
an endangered species. They are
found in very unproductive
coastal dunes, and never move
inland because the soils are too
compacted. They are nocturnal
and surface at night to prey on
insects moving on the sand.
During the day they rest and
slow down their metabolism a
daily hibernation. The average
home range for this remarkable
species is 4,3 ha quite a large
area for such a small species.
Special species: Species of conservation concern that may be found north of
the Berg River include Caesia sp. nov., Limonium acuminatum, and Otholobium
venustum. Babiana petiolata is a fairly common endemic of the northern parts of
this unit and adjacent Lambert's Bay Strandveld.
Key areas requiring conservation: Perhaps the best examples of this
vegetation type north of the Berg River occur between Rocher Pan and Elands
Bay, and part of this is within the Rocher Pan NR, and part of it within private
conservation areas. The Dwarskersbos area supports some significant kersbos
(Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus) thickets, threatened by development.
Management guidelines:This habitat is well conserved within the West Coast
National Park, and in various other smaller reserves. An effort should be
made to keep the main ecological corridors intact, and to prevent
fragmentation. This is not a fire driven system. Alien plant invasion (mainly
Acacia cyclops) is relatively slow (compared to the south coast), due to the
aridity of the area in summer, but urbanisation is a threat in places (Velddrif,
Dwarskersbos).
GRAAFWATER SANDSTONE FYNBOS
Position and features of the landscape: Widespread and common within this
area, wherever there are semi-arid sandstone habitats. Occurs west of the
Cederberg and all the way to the coast near Elands Bay. Forms distinct
inselbergs surrounded by Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos on the deeper sands.
Typically at moderate to low elevation, and is replaced by Olifants, Piketberg
and Cederberg
Sandstone Fynbos in
wetter positions.
Typical formation is a heavily weathered sandstone cap,
sandy slopes with scattered rocks, and small sandy
plateaus. Small Afrotemperate forest patches often
associated with sheltered positions in this unit, especially
on south and southeast aspects, but these are usually
small.
Climate: Quite variable, but basically hot and dry in
summer and mild in winter. The more coastal areas (such
as Baboon Point) are exposed to extensive sea fogs, which
undoubtedly supplement the available moisture.
Vegetation structure: Typically a medium to tall shrubland,
with extensive thicket elements in more fire protected
areas. Deeper sands dominated by Restionaceae, often with prominent Proteaceae. Prominent displays of annuals,
especially in burnt areas. Moderate diversity of bulbs. Succulents may be common, especially on rocky outcrops,
where dwarf succulents and bulbs (in very shallow soils) may be a feature.
Special species: This unit supports a large number of rare, threatened, or localised plant species, some of which are
shared with Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos. Gladiolus comptonii is rare and restricted to the Heerenlogenment.
Conophytum obcordellum spp. rolfii is endemic to the sandstone outcrops near Eland's Bay. Oscularia compressus is
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found only near Redelinghuys. Babiana confusa, B. ecklonii, Otholobium venustum, Pelargonium appendiculatum, P.
fasciculaceum, Aloe framesii, Cullumia micracantha, Wahlenbergia massonii, Lebeckia leucoclada, Lotononis racemiflora,
Sparaxis roxburghii, Agathosma involucrata (Bergvlei only), A. sladeniana, Dischisma squarrosum, and Manulea
psilostoma are all species of conservation concern, found or potentially found within this unit. Most of the
Proteaceae listed under typical species are currently Red Data listed.
Key areas requiring conservation: Large areas have undergone transformation in the last twenty years, primarily
for rooibos tea cultivation, and this unit is now threatened, with many fragments having become ecologically
isolated. All wetland areas within this unit are high priority conservation areas, as are all known point localities for
special species.
Management guidelines: This is a fire driven system, and as many fragments are now surrounded by - or very
close - to agricultural lands, fires are strongly resisted by landowners. This means that in many areas the natural
vegetation is becoming senescent, with species loss possible in the near future. Further fragmentation of this
habitat should be avoided, especially where natural habitat borders on Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos and upland
areas. Landowners should be encouraged to burn most areas once every 15-20 years.
Alien invasive vegetation is now an issue in some areas (especially Acacia and pine), and all invasive species should
be removed. Rooibos tea farming should ideally be conducted within the natural veld, on an organic basis, without
wholesale ploughing. At the very least strips of natural vegetation (minimum of 15m wide) should be left between
ploughed strips (to reduce soil erosion and wind damage to young rooibos, and to maintain ecological
connectivity), and ideally rooibos should be interplanted in extant vegetation and hand harvested, without
spraying of harmful chemicals.
CEDERBERG SANDSTONE FYNBOS
Position and leatures of the landscape: This vegetation type is dominated by rugged rocky outcrops with gullies
and flats of deep sand. It occurs in a small northern section of the Groot-Winterhoek Mountains. The vegetation
grows on acidic sands derived from the Table Mountain Sandstone group. Damp sands are dominated by restio,
which gives way to shrubby growth as aridity increases.
Climate: The rainfall varies between 180-600mm per
annum, with hot dry summers and sometimes freezingly
cold winters (3 to 30 days of frost per year).
Vegetation structure: Predominantly asteraceous (daisylike), restioid and proteoid fynbos. The vegetation type is
characterised by a high number of endemic species.
Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation type is
well conserved in the statutory conservation area of the
Cederberg Wilderness Area.
Management guidelines: A small percentage of the
vegetation type has been transformed to agricultural
production, primarily rooibos and vineyards. Most of the
extent is mountainous. Pinus radiata, an alien invasive
species, is of particular concern and should be eradicated. This is a fire-driven system that should burn regularly.
OLIFANTS SANDSTONE FYNBOS
Position and features of the landscape: This vegetation type is located on the lower slopes of the Voorberg
Mountain from Saron northwards to the Olifants River Mountains. The altitude where this vegetation occurs
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varies between 200 and 1200m on gentle to steep slopes as
well as along the broad valley bottoms. The acidic soils are
derived from Table Mountain Sandstone.
Climate: The area receives between 250 and 700mm rain
per annum, peaking in May and August. The summers are
hot and dry and winters mild with a frost incidence of 3 to
10 days per annum.
SPECKLED PADLOPER
(Homopus signatus)
Photo google.com.
Very little is known about the smallest
tortoise in the world, which can only be
found in the Piketberg, Klawer and
Calvinia areas - nowhere else in the
world!. Adults are between 60-80mm in
length with a weight of 70g for males and
140g for females. They are active in the
early morning, when they feed on small
succulent plants growing between large
rocks., and are most active during the
spring and autumn, when they breed.
The tortoises consent to mate with a nod
of their heads, and the females lay a few
eggs in moist areas beneath rocks. After
100-120 days young emerge that are no
more than 30mm long and weigh just 7g.
This tortoise is currently threatened by
habitat destruction through overgrazing,
mining activities and collection for illegal
pet trade.
Vegetation structure: The vegetation type is characterised
by a combination of vegetation communities that tend to
occur on rocky west-facing slopes of the Cederberg. The
rock provides fire protection and is dominated by
asteraceous fynbos and Cape Thicket interspersed with low
trees and tall shrubs. Proteoid fynbos is most prominent on
the lower slopes and sandy plateaus, while the deeper
sands and shallower soils support restioid fynbos.
Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation type is
well conserved in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, with an
additional 44% conserved privately.
Management guidelines: Threatened by Pinus radiata: Its
eradication should be prioritised.
PIKETBERG SANDSTONE FYNBOS
Position and features of the landscape: This vegetation type
occurs mainly on the Piketberg Mountains in a triangle from
the town of Aurora to Het Kruis, and on to the town of
Piketberg. The vegetation type occurs from 100 to 1458m on
Piketberg's Sebrakop. The landscape is characterised by steep
slopes with small plateaus and peaks. The soils are acidic and
derived from Table Mountain Sandstone.
Climate: The area receives 320-860mm per annum with hot
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dry summers and mild winters, 2-4 days of frost
per year.
Vegetation structure: The vegetation consists of
restio dominated moister sands that become
more shrubby as aridity increases. Proteoid and
asteraceous fynbos dominate in the rocky areas.
Cape Thicket is prominent as well.
Key areas requiring conservation: This
vegetation type has no formal conservation areas
protecting it. While it is the most transformed
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mountain fynbos vegetation type in the biome, it is
regarded as a Least Threatened vegetation type.
Areas on deeper sands, particularly those on the top
of Piketberg, have been transformed to agricultural
land, primarily for fruit production.
Management guidelines: Acacia saligna, an alien
invasive plant, is scattered over wide areas and
should be prioritised for eradication.
WINTERHOEK
FYNBOS
SANDSTONE
Position and features of the landscape: This
vegetation type occurs from the Dasklip Pass in the
north to Saronsberg. The landscape is a moderately undulating high plain in the west with rugged peaks in the
south and south east of the Groot Winterhoek. The soils are acidic and derived from Table Mountain Sandstone.
Climate: This vegetation type receives between 370-1350mm per annum. The south easterly winds occasionally
bring heavy mist precipitation in summer. Summers are warm to hot and winters can be bitterly cold with 10-30
frost days per annum.
Vegetation structure: The vegetation consists of restio dominated moister sands that become more shrubby as
aridity increases. Proteoid and ericaceous fynbos are found at higher altitudes which grades into an asteraceous
fynbos at lower altitudes. Cape Thicket is prominent on the lower slopes.
Special species: Numerous endemic taxa, including several species each of Aspalathus and Phylica, as well as some
Proteaceae, succulents and the orchid Disa introrsa such as the rare Ixianthes retzioides, which is limited to
mountain stream banks in the area, are found here.
(Mucina & Rutherford 2006).
Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation
type is well conserved in the Groot-Winterhoek
Nature Reserve and wilderness area. It is regarded
as least threatened.
Management guidelines: Pinus radiata, an alien
invasive plant is a threat and should be prioritised
for eradication. This is a fire driven vegetation
community that should burn at regular intervals.
The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness, with its
extraordinary rock formations and popular hiking
routes, lies about 120 km north of Cape Town. It is
situated in the Groot-Winterhoek mountain range
east of Porterville. The Groot Winterhoek
conservation area comprises 30 608 ha, of which 19 200 ha was declared a wilderness area in 1985 and the
remaining 11 408 ha is managed as a nature reserve. As the name Groot Winterhoek suggests, winters are cold
and wet, while summers are moderate. The average annual rainfall is 1 450 mm, with the heaviest rains between
April and September. Winter nights are very cold with temperatures well below freezing, characterized by heavy
frosts and frequent snowfalls. The landscape is rugged and mountainous, with altitudes varying between 1000
and 2077 m above sea level. For the most part the rock formations are Table Mountain Sandstone. This geological
formation weathers readily into an acidic sandy soil substrate that is easily eroded.
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Groot-Winterhoek is also one of the eight protected areas that constitute the Cape Floral Kingdom World Heritage
Sites. In total these heritage sites cover some 553 000 ha. World Heritage Sites are proclaimed to recognise and
protect areas of outstanding natural, historical and cultural value (http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1007).
PIKETBERG QUARTZ SUCCULENT SHRUBLAND
Position and Features of the Landscape: The largest patch of this vegetation type occurs on the farm Draaihoek
between Piketberg and Eendekuil, also in the vicinity of Het Kruis and Redelinghuys and at Sauer on the South
Western foot of the Piketberg. It occurs at altitudes that vary between 120-160m. The vegetation is unique to the
Porterville formation. The weathering of the softer shale soils left behind hard quartz that forms an almost
continuous rubble layer.
Climate: This vegetation type receives little rain as it is in a rain shadow of the Piketberg Mountain. The climate is
mild with only 4 frost days per annum, but summers are hot and dry.
Vegetation structure: This is a unique vegetation type linked to the vegetation of the Knersvlakte. It is a low
shrubland dominated by sturdy succulent Sarcocornia sp. accompanied by leaf succulents, such as contracted
“vygies”, especially in the shallow trenches and depressions. The elevated sites with deeper soils support denser
shrubland.
Special species: Numerous endemic taxa refer to Mucina & Rutherford 2006.
Key areas requiring conservation: There is no formal conservation of this vegetation type as it occurs entirely on
private land Draaihoek in particular is very important for the conservation of this vegetation type.
2.8 TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY: VERTEBRATES
A third of South Africa's 280 mammal species have been recorded in the Fynbos region with a very low level of
endemism. Some of the larger species such as the African elephant, black rhino, Cape lion and Cape buffalo were
rapidly eliminated after the European settlers arrived in the area. The endemic blue antelope was extinct by the
1800's. Today only smaller antelope species such as the common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), Cape grysbok
(Raphicerus melanotis), steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and klipspringer (Oreotragus oreotragus) are found outside
protected areas. Medium-sized mammals include species like the chacma baboon (Papio ursinus), porcupine
(Hystrix africaeaustralis),honey badger (ratel) (Mellivora capensis), Cape clawless otter (Aonyx capensis), small spotted
genet and yellow,small and large grey mongoose. (See Box: Cape clawless otter). Smaller species such as shrews,
elephant shrews, moles, dormice, mice, rats and gerbils are well represented in fynbos. These species play an
important role in fynbos regeneration either as pollinators or by dispersing seeds to favourable germination sites.
The Cape mountain leopard is the top predator in fynbos (see Box: The Cape mountain leopard).
There is not an unusual diversity of birds in fynbos, and although 250 species were recorded in the region, most of
them are not specifically associated with fynbos. The uniform structure of fynbos offers fewer niches for foraging,
breeding, and other activities and the low productivity and scarcity of food is the reason for the lack of diversity.
Fynbos is however of interest to the avid bird enthusiast, and all six fynbos endemic birds are found within the
BRM. These are the protea canary (Serinus leucopterus), Cape siskin (Pseudochloroptila totta), Victorin's warbler
(Cryptillas victorini), Cape rockjumper (Chaetops frenatus) and the nectar feeding orange-breasted sunbird
(Anthobaphes violacea) and Cape sugarbird (Promerops cafer) (Cowling and Richardson 2005).
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THE CAPE MOUNTAIN LEOPARD
(Panthera pardus)
The Cape mountain leopard is the largest predator in the Western Cape, and is therefore
the apex predator in our local ecosystems. The protection of apex species such as the
leopard will ensure that other species are protected as well. This should ensure that
food chains and ecosystems are kept functional.
Leopard populations and numbers have
decreased over time due to habitat
fragmentation and degradation as well as to
the persecution of leopards to protect
domestic stock. Often these leopards are
removed without the necessary gathering
of information about the population and
genetic status of the leopard and the
reasons contributing to the conflict. As a
result of this the Cape Leopard Trust was
established. It aims to optimally facilitate
conservation of the Cape's predator
diversity through simultaneously
implementing conservation strategies,
research projects and tourism initiatives.
Copyright: Cape Leopard Trust
TABLE 3
THE KNOWN
AND PRESUMED
HISTORICAL
INCIDENCE OF
THE LARGER
MAMMALS OF
THE SANDVELD
R E G I O N
(COETZEE 2007)
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POLLINATION IN FYNBOS
Mammals, birds and insect species play a major pollination role in fynbos. There is an intense
rivalry between plants species for the attention of pollinators, whose numbers are often too low to
pollinate all the available blooms. This is particularly true of the
geophytes, which flower just after fire when pollinators are scarce.
Some plants, such as many proteas, are “generalists” that are
pollinated by both birds and insects, while other are more specialised
and need a specific species at a specific time to be pollinated. About
430 fynbos plant species are pollinated by birds: Some 100 of these
species belong to the Erica genus and 79 to the family Proteaceae. A
Cape sugarbird will visit 300 protea flowerheads per day during
autumn and winter to satisfy its energy requirements
About 80% of the 528 Erica species are pollinated by insects, bees,
flies and thrips. One of the most recognisable orchid species in the
Western Cape is the red disa (Disa uniflora) which emblazons the
Provincial rugby team jersey. This orchid is common in the Groot
Winterhoek, and is pollinated by a equally beautiful species of
butterfly, the Mountain pride butterfly (Aeropetes tulbaghia).
Disa uniflora
THE BIG HERDS HAVE DISAPPEARED
The Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra) is the
smallest of the extant zebras, and the most
restricted geographically. Its broad black stripes are
closely spaced on a pure white body. Overall it is
stockier than the Hartmann's zebra, has longer ears,
and has a larger dewlap. The Cape mountain zebra
formerly inhabited all the mountain ranges of the
Southern Cape Province of South Africa. By 1922,
however, only 400 were believed to survive. Today
landowners are contributing to the conservation of
the mountain zebra by setting favourable habitat
aside for reintroduction programmes.
Copyright Bakkrans Nature Reserve, Red Cederberg
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2.9 AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS
Climatologists predict a 50% reduction in rain-fed agricultural yield in some African countries by the 2020s
(Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2007). At a more local scale, climate modelling recently undertaken
for the West Coast predicts increased temperature and decreased rainfall for the BRM (Archer et al 2008). South
Africa is a water-scarce country, and our aquatic ecosystems are under severe pressure as a result of many
competing demands on our limited water resources. All indications are that South Africa will reach its limit of
potentially accessible water supplies between 2020 and 2030. For this reason, it is crucial that efficient water-use is
encouraged (Maree & Vromans, 2010). The potato production area in the municipal boundary is solely dependent
on underground water and aquifer recharge from rainfall for its continued viability, water supply is a key resource
issue that requires management if the wetlands and water dependent ecosystems are to remain persistent on the
West Coast (Ranger et al 2006).
As with terrestrial ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems are comprised of all the living organisms and non-living
elements in the surrounding water system (Maree & Vromans, 2010). These ecosystems have been further classified
into eight sub-types of Wetland Ecosystems and River Ecosystems, based on their position and function in the
landscape, and then further differentiated into 98 aquatic ecosystem types (Maree and Vromans, 2010). Aquatic
ecosystems are interconnected: The impacts at the top end of a river in the mountain catchment may be felt all along
the system to its point of entry into the sea. The aquatic ecosystems of the BRM have been severely impacted, as can
be seen from Map 5: Former Extent of Aquatic Ecosystems in the BRM, and Map 6: Current Extent of Aquatic
Ecosystems in the BRM. The current extent illustrated in the map may be interpreted as those river, tributaries and
wetlands that can be considered to be ecologically functional at this point in time. The loss of functionality in the
aquatic systems due to human induced impacts being the difference between the two maps. Most of the rivers have
been heavily impacted.
MAPS 5 AND 6: FORMER (LEFT) AND CURRENT EXTENT OF
AQUATIC SYSTEMS IN THE BRM
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MAP 7: CATCHMENTS AND RIVERS OF THE BRM
MAP 8: CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS AND SUBCATCHMENTS WITHIN BRM (JOB ET AL) 2009
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2.9.1 CATCHMENTS AND RIVERS
If the water supply of a given region is to be managed in a sound and sustainable way, the entire catchment or
catchments within a municipality will require management and should be identified as a single planning unit.
Very importantly, catchment management will require formalised agreements or organisational structures
between municipalities as the catchments, more often than not, extend beyond the boundaries of the municipal
area. The BRM falls within the Berg River, Papkuils, Verlorenvlei and Olifants catchments, which is the
management area administered by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). In the department these areas are
commonly referred to as Water Management Areas (WMA). It is important to understand the WMA as the
departments activities related to monitoring, water licensing and allocation of staff and resources is based on
this demarcation. Central to each of the WMA's is a major river system - in this instance the Berg River and the
upper reaches of the Verlorenvlei. A striking characteristic of the catchment is the low density of drainage
channels in the western parts of the catchment underlain by unconsolidated sandy recent deposits (Clark &
Ractcliffe 2007).
The Berg River Catchment covers an area of almost 9000 km2 in the Western Cape Province, and is subdivided
2
2
into 12 quarternary catchments ranging in size from 125 km near the headwaters to 2000 km in the drier
western parts of the catchment (Figure 3.2). The river runs northward for 285 km, and drains into St. Helena Bay
on the west coast of South Africa. Much of the catchment is relatively flat, except in the uppermost reaches
(Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
As stated above, most of these rivers have been severely impacted through heavy use along the length of the
river and through the regulation of stream flow to improve water security. The biodiversity of these rivers has
been impacted through the modification of river banks, spread of alien invasive plants and animals, pollution
from effluent and other waste, development, overgrazing and physical disturbance from livestock, vehicles and
people. As a general rule of thumb the further on travels away from the main stem of the river and the steeper
the gradient of the river the better the condition of the river. It is no small coincidence that the functional rivers
in Map 6 above are closely linked to the mountain chains present in the municipality.
The overall health of a river system is highly dependent of the quality of the vegetation growing along the
riverbanks. The better the condition of the adjacent vegetation, the better the condition of the river. A broad
band of riverine vegetation buffers the river against the impacts of adjacent land use. Furthermore, the roots of
natural vegetation growing on the riverbanks bind the soil and prevent undercutting. The vegetation of
these rivers often act to spilt the flow of water into a number of different smaller channels,
which helps to reduce the impacts of flooding. This, in turn, provides more time for
water to seep into the sediments along the course of the river, rehydrating
the soils and feeding the aquifers. For this reason it is critical that
any new land use, development or activity should be
separated from the river by a buffer area
(Maree and Vromans, 2010). Areas critical
to biodiversity should be buffered by a
minimum of 100m, Critical Ecological
Support Areas should be buffered by a
minimum of 50m and all other rivers
should be buffered by 32m on either side of
the river (Maree and Vromans, 2010),
measured as a linear distance
perpendicular to the river, away from the
river and from the highest point of the
bank. This is a guideline only, and
specialist input should be sought at all
times where these decisions are made.
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The Cape clawless otter (Aonyx capensis) is clawless, as the name
suggests. They are reasonably common in marshes, rivers, streams
and estuaries but because of their secretive behaviour they are
seldom seen.When they play, they chase one another and indulge in
mock fights, they also play animatedly with sticks and stones. They
are mostly active during the day and, although they are fond of
water, they spend more time out of it wandering in search of new
feeding grounds. They have a taste for crabs and frogs, and less
commonly eat fish. The otter's den is known as a 'holt'. Two to five
young are born: They mature quickly and are soon schooled in the
art of swimming and diving by their parents. Photo Google.com
MAP 9: CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY MAP OF THE BRM
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2.9.2 WETLANDS
In the simplest terms, a wetland is an area that is covered with water for long enough periods of time to change
the soil and plant community that lives in it (Job 2009). This is because the area experiences extended periods of
inundation by water. Species of animals and plants that live in these areas have to be able to tolerate these wet,
waterlogged conditions. A more detailed definition is supplied by the National Water Act (36 of 1998) as “land where
the water table is usually at or near the surface, or land which is periodically covered with shallow water, and land that in
normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil”. The wetlands of the
West Coast have been classified as isolated or non-isolated depending on connection or proximity to a riverine
system, and further classified into floodplain wetlands, valley bottom wetlands, seep wetlands and depression
wetlands. Within the Bergrivier Municipality the most numerous type of wetland by far are seeps, followed by
depressions and valley bottom wetlands. However, the largest in terms of area are the valley bottom wetlands
and floodplain wetlands. See Table 4: Summary of the inland wetlands and estuaries occurring within the BRM
(as adopted from Job et al., 2008) and Map 10 above. Wetlands form stepping-stones for many taxa, including
birds, reptiles, invertebrates and amphibians, as they move about the landscape. The functioning of these
wetlands as stepping-stones is dependent on the permeability of the surrounding landscape matrix, which
generally decreases as the landscape becomes degraded.
TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF THE INLAND WETLANDS AND ESTUARIES
OCCURRING WITHIN THE BRM (AS ADAPTED FROM JOB ET AL.,
2008 AND MAREE & VROMANS, 2010)
SubSystem
Estuarine
NonIsolated
NonIsolated
NonIsolated
Isolated /
NonIsolated
BRM
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Wetland
Type
Total
Number
Total
Area
(ha)
Floodplain
3
22
2083
5732
Val ley
Bottom
Seep
127
6858
329
2532
Depression
152
1140
534
19 453
Number/
hectares
of
wetlands
where
more
than 75%
of
the
wetland
remains
intact
Number/
hectares
of
wetlands
that are
classified
as
CBA
Aquatic
Number/
hectares
wetlands
that are
already
protected
Number/
hectares
of
wetlands
classified
as CBA
Aquatic
that
are
already
protected
125/11379
219/16446
64/3340
58/2838
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There are 125 (11 379 ha's) of these wetlands within the municipality that are still 75% intact. 219 (16 446 ha's) of
them are however Critcally Important in terms of conserving aquatic biodiversity. 64 (3 340 ha's) are conserved, 58
(2 838 ha's) of these are Critically Important. If an area supports several wetlands that together are greater than 500
ha in extent and no more than 1.5 km apart; and if more than 80% of the land cover is natural vegetation; then this
should be recognized as a significant cluster to be prioritized for protection and proper management (Maree and
Vromans, 2010).
The following descriptions of wetland types is a summary based on the information contained in Job et al
2009. The wetland types found within the BRM are:
FLOODPLAIN WETLANDS
ALLUVIAL FLOODPLAIN
Alluvial floodplains occur throughout the BRM the largest being the Berg River and its tributaries. Other alluvial
floodplain wetlands can be found along the Verlorenvlei, Kruismans, Krom Antonies and Hol Rivers and the
Papkuils that feeds into Rocher Pan.
The climate where these systems are
found is variable with a steep rainfall
gradient from west to east across the
municipality.
The rivers are both
permanent and non-permanent
systems.
Alluvial floodplains are
characterised by:
3
3
wide river valleys;
3
sandstone and shale bedrock
outcroppings within river
channels;
3
braided meandering river
channels.
occurrence on acid sands of
varying depth;
Generally, alluvial floodplains have a
band of perennial trees (often alien) and
tall shrubs on the river bank, with swathes of varying width of reeds, sedges and palmiet extending on either side
of the riparian tree band.
Major threats and impacts: All of the alluvial floodplains in the planning domain are highly threatened by water
abstraction both surface (the many dams on the Berg) and groundwater, especially for potato farming. This is
threatening the seasonal inundation of the floodplain, and so the persistence of floodplain vegetation and
wetlands. There is also extensive invasion by alien vegetation, with roads and railways, irrigation canals, urban
and rural development comprising lesser threats.
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SANDVELD FLOODPLAIN
Sandveld floodplain wetlands occur along the following river systems:
3
3
3
Verlorenvlei;
Sout River (tributary to the south of the Berg River);
Rocher Pan system.
The climate in these areas is low rainfall (MAP less than 300mm), which occurs in winter. With the exception of
Verlorenvlei, all of these rivers are seasonal in nature. Sandveld floodplains are characterised by:
3
occurrence on alkaline to neutral silts and sands of
varying depth;
3
presence of subsurface calcretes and clays (water
tends to be more permanent in these areas);
3
saline systems that have a high dependence on
groundwater;
3
3
much of the flow being subsurface;
wide, sandy systems with braided channels within
an even wider floodplain.
The wetland type occurring on sandveld floodplains is
classified as Cape Inland Salt Pans / Marsh described
above.
Major threats and impacts: Like the other floodplain
types, sandveld floodplains are threatened by infilling, in
order to reclaim land for agriculture, development and roads. Salt mining is a major threat, due to the natural
salinity of these systems. Water abstraction especially groundwater is predominant in these catchments, and
could lead to the drying out of these floodplain wetlands. In particular the presence of boreholes within the
floodplains themselves.
SANDSTONE FYNBOS VALLEY BOTTOM
Sandstone fynbos valley bottom wetlands permanent or seasonal wetlands that are scattered throughout the
planning domain. They are located in the lowlands and the
more mountainous areas, wherever sandstone fynbos
vegetation types are found. Sandstone Fynbos Valley
Bottom Wetlands can be characterised by:
7
3
being fed by hillslope seeps situated on higherlying ground;
3
comprised of a generally well-defined channel
with riparian wetland of varying width;
3
fed by water seeping from the surrounding
mountain slopes or springs;
3
being associated with upper and lower foothill
river systems;
3
floating aquatics can occur in more permanent
pools;
3
occurrence on acid sands.
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The dominant vegetation is a mix of low to medium height herbaceous species reeds, restios, grasses, sedges
and scrub-shrub type vegetation small trees and proteoid and ericoid fynbos species. The vegetation type is
Cape Lowland Freshwater Wetland described above.
Major threats and impacts: The clearing of land for cultivation of potatoes and rooibos in sandstone fynbos has
led to the loss or reduction the extent of sandstone fynbos valley bottom wetlands. Associated with rooibos
cultivation, and other crops, is the use of chemicals and fertilizers which tend to alter the water chemistry in
wetlands these acid systems are particularly vulnerable to a change in pH. These wetlands are threatened by
fragmentation, as a result of roads crossing wetlands, rural development and draining of wetlands. All of these
activities can lead to erosion within seeps. Sandstone fynbos is fire-driven vegetation and so alterations to the
fire regime would lead to loss of species diversity.
SEEP WETLANDS
Both hillslope and basin seeps were scattered throughout the planning domain, the seeps have been grouped
primarily according to the vegetation type in which they are found. These seeps are important areas for water
supply, located as they are towards the source of rivers and streams, and for groundwater recharge
SANDSTONE FYNBOS SEEP
Sandstone fynbos seeps are characterised by:
3
3
occurrence in mountainous areas such as the Groot Winterhoek and Piketberg;
being both permanent and non-permanent;
3
being drier in summer (although soils can
remain wet) and inundated in winter;
3
occurrence on sandstone-derived acid
sands.
The seeps are fairly densely vegetated, and tend to
be dominated by restioid (where sands are deeper)
and proteoid fynbos and indigenous grasses, but
can be invaded by reeds, such as Phragmites
australis, and bulrush, Typha capensis, where
disturbed or where water is more permanent. The
vegetation type surrounding these seeps are all
sandstone fynbos types, primarily Groot
Winterhoek Sandstone Fynbos and Piketberg
Sandstone Fynbos.
Major threats and impacts: The last two decades or
so have seen substantial clearing of dry and wet areas in sandstone fynbos for the cultivation of rooibos. These
fields are often placed in wetter, seep areas. This leads to the almost total loss of wetland vegetation in and
around these seeps, and so a radical deterioration in the quality of wetland habitat. Associated with rooibos
cultivation, and other crops, is the use of chemicals and fertilizers which tend to alter the water chemistry in
wetlands these acid seeps are particularly vulnerable to a change in pH. Hillslope and basin seeps are
threatened by fragmentation, as a result of roads crossing wetlands, rural development and draining of
wetlands. All of these activities can lead to erosion within seeps. Sandstone fynbos is fire-driven vegetation and
so alterations to the fire regime would lead to loss of species diversity.
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SAND FYNBOS SEEP
3
Sand Fynbos Basin Seeps are characterised by: occurrence on fairly low-lying, flat ground, predominantly
around the southern Sout River (tributary of the Bergrivier) and inland of the Rocher Pan
3
3
3
system;
occurrence in the vegetation type classified as Hopefield Sand Fynbos;
occurrence on acid sands at altitudes lower than 150m.
SAND FYNBOS HILLSLOPE SEEPS
3
The hillslope seeps are located on slightly higher ground, also in the upper catchments of the Verlorenvlei
rivers in Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos;
3
occurrence on acid sands at altitudes lower than 150m.
The seeps essentially occupy coastal sand flats. In Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos and Hopefield Sand Fynbos the
vegetation is characterised by patches of medium to tall shrubs, which are separated by fairly dense restiolands.
The seeps are generally vegetated, dominated by restios and the rush, Juncus kraussii, but may be invaded by reeds,
such as Phragmites australis, and the bulrush, Typha capensis, where disturbed. Sarcocornia natalensis, which
required seasonal freshwater flooding, can occur in sand fynbos seeps.
Major threats and impacts: Same as for sandstone fynbos seeps. Potato and rooibos farming in the north, and
wheat in the south, are having a significant impact on both wet and dry habitats in the sand fynbos vegetation
types. Wetlands, in particular seeps, are being drained and filled in to provide fields for cultivation. This
represents large-scale loss of wetland habitat. Where non-isolated seeps are destroyed, the consequences for the
downstream catchments will be severe, leading to a loss of surface water in an area where irrigation resources are
poor. Groundwater abstraction is having a serious impact on seeps.
RENOSTERVELD HILLSLOPE SEEP
These seeps are all non-isolated, and mostly located in the southern half of the domain, around the middle Berg
River, the Boesmans River (major tributary of the Berg River) and the upper reaches of tributaries of Verlorenvlei.
Renosterveld Hillslope Seeps are characterised by:
3
3
3
occurrence in groundwater discharge areas;
location on clays meaning they are probably perched wetlands;
occurrence at fairly low altitudes, on gentle slopes.
Most of them lie in the south of the domain in Swartland Shale Renosterveld. These seeps are dominated by sedges
and grasses, but are often impacted and so are invaded by kikuyu grass, Typha capensis and Phragmites australis.
Major threats and impacts: The Swartland Shale Renosterveld has been severely transformed 90% has been
totally transformed and remaining 10% lies in fragments across the landscape. The wetlands lying within this
vegetation type have similarly been affected, largely by cultivation and livestock grazing. Many of these
renosterveld hillslope seeps lie on the lowlands, which are ideal for agriculture, and so these habitats are highly
threatened.
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STRANDVELD SEEP
Strandveld basin seeps are all coastal systems. They occur on the coast just north of Rocher Pan. These seeps are
situated in Langebaan Dune Strandveld, and are essentially dune slack wetlands dominated by Juncus kraussi. They
are seasonal wetlands that are fed by annual rainfall. These are usually saline systems and in the BRM occur on
deep, neutral to alkaline sands. None appear to be important from a groundwater recharge perspective and are not
situated in groundwater discharge areas either.
These seeps are characterised by:
3
3
3
seasonal wetlands dependent on rainfall;
occurrence in the lowlands in areas with low rainfall (250-350mm);
saline systems on neutral to alkaline sands.
Major threats and impacts: These seeps are severely impacted by agriculture. Many have been ploughed up
and/or drained and/or are heavily impacted by stock grazing in them. As a coastal system these wetlands are
threatened by coastal urban development. Additionally roads and rail lines running parallel with the coast split and
fragment these seep areas. Alien trees, in particular Acacia saligna and A. Cyclops, are a significant threat
DEPRESSIONAL WETLANDS
SANDSTONE FYNBOS DEPRESSION
A mix of isolated and non-isolated sandstone fynbos depressions occur in the Boesmans River (tributary of the Berg
River) catchment. When vegetated they tend to be dominated by restioid and proteoid fynbos. The vegetation type
surrounding the majority of these depressions is Piketberg Sandstone Fynbos, and the remainders are within
Graafwater, Olifants and Cederberg Sandstone Fynbos.
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Sandstone Fynbos Depressions are characterised by:
being seasonal, shallow systems and dependent on annual rainfall;
occurrence at altitudes above 200m in gently sloping terrain;
occurrence on acids sands,
situated in groundwater recharge areas.
Major threats and impacts: The sandstone fynbos depressions are mostly impacted by the cultivation of crops
mostly wheat in the Piketberg area. These seasonal systems are vulnerable to changes in hydrology such as the
result of ground- or surface water abstraction. They are vulnerable to invasion by reeds, such as Phragmites
australis, and bulrush, Typha capensis, where disturbed or where water is more permanent
SAND FYNBOS DEPRESSION
Many of the sand fynbos depressions lie on either side of the lower Berg River and are surrounded by Flats
Strandveld Mosaic and Hopefield Sand Fynbos.The remaining sand fynbos depressions lie inland, in the
Verlorenvlei rivers surrounded by Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos.
Sand Fynbos Depressions are characterised by:
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occurrence on deep acid sands with a silt or mud substratum;
dependence on the availability of underground water;
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being mostly isolated systems that are seasonally inundated;
usually being unvegetated, but in instances where vegetation does occur it is dominated by restios and the
rush Juncus kraussi.
Major threats and impacts: Sand fynbos depressions are highly threatened by agricultural cultivation of crops
such as wheat. Livestock graze and trample the depressions. These wetlands are also frequently fragmented by
road and rail networks.
RENOSTERVELD DEPRESSION
Most of these depressions lie in the Swartland Shale Renosterveld. They are characterised by:
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being isolated, shallow systems that are rainfall dependent;
occurrence on alkaline shale-derived soils.
Major threats and impacts: The Swartland Shale Renosterveld has been severely transformed and is severely
threatened 90% has been totally transformed and remaining 10% lies in fragments across the landscape. The
wetlands lying within this vegetation type have similarly been affected, largely by cultivation and livestock grazing.
STRANDVELD DEPRESSION
There are numerous strandveld depressions, located immediately north of the lower Berg River. They are a mixture
of vegetated and un-vegetated wetland systems. Those that are vegetated are dominated by grasses (such as
Cynodon dactylon), Sarcocornia spp., and various restios, rushed and sedges. These depressions are characterised
by:
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being isolated and reliant on rainfall (those north of the Berg River probably also filled as water levels rise in
this water discharge area);
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occurrence on neutral sands or granite derived soils;
being predominantly saline systems.
Major threats and impacts: Although there are some protected areas within the strandveld, the strandveld
depressions have been severely impacted by agricultural activities near the coast. Salt-mining, on a small or large
scale has led to physical modification of depressional wetlands. Due to their location near the coast, these systems
are also particularly threatened by resort, housing, and urban development, especially in the southern portion of
the domain.
FISH SPECIES
The primary catchment of the Olifants-Doring river system is critical in terms of freshwater fish conservation. It has
the highest number of endemics in southern Africa, and is “the freshwater fish hotspot” nationally. The catchments
are home to 10 endemic fish species of which two are Critically Endangered and a further five are Endangered. The
Berg River system is home to the Berg River redfin (Pseudobarbus burgi) which is found only in this river system and
which is also Critically Endangered. Recent genetic research has indicated that the Verlorenvlei redfin is a new
species that is restricted to this river system. Other species within these catchments include the Cape kurper
(Sandelia capensis) and the Cape galaxias (Galaxias zebratus). Genetic studies have shown that Sout River Galaxias, is
in fact a number of separate and undescribed species. The Berg-Breede whitefish (Barbus andrewi), one of the larger
species, is extinct in the Berg River, and its long-term survival is dependent upon conserving populations in the
Breede River catchment.
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Major threats and impacts: The main threats to these fish are the presence of alien invasive fish
species, in particular the three bass (Micropterus spp.) species, unsustainable levels of water
abstraction and habitat degradation mainly as a result of agricultural activities. Current obstacles
include low levels of awareness amongst riparian landowners and anglers, unsustainable levels of
water abstraction and the continuing illegal stocking of fishes into dams and rivers, leading to new
introductions of harmful alien species such as carp and sharptooth catfish in the river system in the
last 10 years.
SOME ENDEMIC FISH SPECIES
Berg River Redfin
(Pseudobarbus burgi)
This endangered fish species are found
in tributaries of the Berg River and
Verlorenvlei in habitats that varies from
clear mountain streams to deep, still,
vegetated pools in river in the lowlands.
Feeds form the bottom on invertebrates,
algae and detritus.
Some scientist
believes that the species found in the
Verlorenvlei may be a new species, but
this needs still to be confirmed
Clanwilliam Yellowfish
(Barbus capensis)
The impressive Clanwilliam Yellowfish
is only found in the Olifants-Doring
River System and is the Western Cape's
largest indigenous freshwater fish. This
magnificent gamefish, which in
breeding colour looks like a bar of gold,
has sadly undergone major declines in
its distribution range and abundance
since the 1930s. These declines have
been caused by invasive fishes
(primarily smallmouth bass) and habitat
degradation due to excessive water-use
from rivers, bulldozing of rivers and the inappropriate use of fertilizers and pesticides.
Clanwilliam yellowfish are currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and breeding populations
are only found in the Olifants Gorge and some tributaries where alien fishes are absent and aquatic
habitat is healthy. Several recent conservation and water resource management measures hold
substantial promise for the future of the species, including the establishment of the Groot
Winterhoek Freshwater Stewardship Corridor (Maree & Vromans 2010)
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2.9.3 ESTUARIES
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Estuaries provide a range of services that have economic or welfare value. In the Berg Estuary, the most important
services are commercial fishing, recreation and tourism, salt production and potentially Carbon sequestration.
From a biodiversity perspective the estuary is a nursery ground for various fish species that are dealt with in more
detail below and, importantly, provides 60% of the available estuarine habitat on the West Coast. It is estimated
that the nursery value of the estuary is in the region of R 9 million per year. Additionally this estuary is a popular
tourism destination and is very popular among recreational fishermen. The recreational value of the estuary is
estimated to range between R 10-20 million per annum (Bergrivier Estuary Situation Assessment).
ESTUARINE TYPES
According to the National Wetland Inventory Classification System (NWICS), estuaries are defined as “…partially
enclosed ecosystems that are permanently or periodically connected to the ocean, which are influenced by tidal
fluctuations and within which ocean water is at least occasionally diluted by fresh water derived from surface or
subsurface land drainage.”
The length and breadth of an estuary may be determined from the Reserve Determination Methods for estuaries
(under the National Water Act 36 of 1998), which define the geographical boundaries of an estuary as:
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Downstream boundary: the estuary mouth;
Upstream boundary: the extent of tidal influence; i.e., the point up to where tidal variation in water levels
can still be detected or the extent of saline intrusion, whichever is furthest upstream;
Lateral boundaries: the 5m Above Mean Seal Level (AMSL) contour along each bank has been
recommended as a useful preliminary management boundary to define the whole estuary, including its
upstream extent, particularly where data on saline extent are limited (Lara van Niekerk, CSIR,
pers.comm.). In the present study, estuarine lateral extent was been mapped based on extant plant
communities, with the 5m contour being represented as far as these data allow as a planning /
conservation tool and to assist in setting ecological setbacks from estuaries (Job et al 2007).
THE BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE AND UNIQUE CHARACTER OF THE BERG
RIVER ESTUARY
The C.A.P.E. estuaries conservation plan (Turpie and Clark, 2007) selected for the Bergrivier estuary for partial EPA
status. This means that at least one side of the system should be managed as a sanctuary, receiving protection
from all consumptive use. This is a very important estuary in terms of its contribution to protecting both nationally
and internationally important biodiversity. At the very least the area should be proclaimed or partially proclaimed
an Estuarine Protected Area as it has no formal conservation status at the present time See Table 5 below.
TABLE 5: THE SIZE, IMPORTANCE AND CONSERVATION OF THE
BERG RIVER ESTUARY (JOB ET AL 2007)
Estuary
Municipal
jurisdiction
Approx
size (ha)
Protection
status
Berg River
Estuary
Bergrivier /
Saldanha Bay
7 770
None / Ramsar
site
Priority
rank in
SA
3rd
Recommend
status*
Averaged
integrity
Partial EPA
0.5
*PA = Protected Area, EPA = Estuarine Protected Area, EMA = Estuarine Management Area
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The Berg River estuary extends for approx. 69 km upstream from its mouth although seawater does not penetrate
this far upstream.
It is a river dominated estuary, and because of its physical type, rarity, large size and high diversity and abundance
of biota, the estuary is rated among the top three estuaries in South Africa in terms of its conservation importance
(Turpie et al. 2002, Turpie et al. 2004).
The tidal range of the estuary varies between 0.2-1.5m. The impact of tides weakens rapidly upstream of the mouth
with inter-tidal areas occurring for the most part downstream of the Railway Bridge. The main channel is 100-200m
wide and is 3-5m deep on average but up to 9m deep in certain areas. The estuaries shallow gradient and extensive
floodplain make it unique. The inundated floodplain in particular is a special feature of the Berg River Estuary. It is
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1.5-4.0km wide and covers an area of 61 km . Much of the lower floodplain has been transformed to evaporation
dams for salt production. In 1966 a new estuary mouth was cut and the mouth dredged to a depth of 4 m to allow
boat access, these alterations are not seen as detrimental except at the mouth (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
The natural runoff from the catchment amounts to 931 Mm3.y-1, nearly half of which (45%) is generated in the top
three quarternary catchments which cover 7% of the area and are located in the mountainous upper reaches of the
Berg River. Water flow into the estuary has been severely impacted by the construction of rivers, agricultural
abstraction and invasion of the river by alien invasive plants. It is estimated that the combined effect has resulted in
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a reduction in runoff amounting to 682 Mm .y as a result flow and quality of water have been adversely impacted.
Additional impacts include urban development, encroachments of agricultural fields, overexploitation of fish,
increased siltation, reduced volumes of freshwater flowing into the estuary (Job et al 2009). The estuary is fed by
surface flows while the floodplain also benefits directly from rainfall. Groundwater is found at depths of between 36m below the floodplain and is discharged into the estuary continuously. The discharge does not appear to have
been impacted by the construction of large dams in the upper reaches of the river (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
There are five critical components of the flow regime that regulate ecological processes in rivers:
magnitude, frequency, duration, timing (or predictability) and rate of change (flashiness) of hydrological
conditions (Poff et al. 1997 in Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
According to Job et al 2007, the Berg River estuary is classified as a permanently open, cool temperate system. The
classification of estuaries has been further improved by Job et al 2007 into three broad categories namely:
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Arid estuarine channels and depressions;
Cape estuarine channels and depressions (the Berg River Estuary falls in this category), and;
Cape estuarine bays.
CAPE ESTUARINE CHANNELS, BAYS
AND DEPRESSIONS
The Berg River Estuary is typical of this category and has
a high salinity due to its permanent connection with the
sea. As an estuary, it is a mixture of estuarine channel
and estuarine depression wetlands.
Typical plant species: Zostera capensis (aquatic), Chenolea
diffusa, Sarcocornia perennis, S. pillansii, S. capensis,
Salicornia meyeriana, Triglochin striata, Triglochin bulbosa,
Plantago crassifolia, Ruppia cirrhosa, R. maritima,
Spergularia media, Juncus kraussii, Sporobolus virginicus,
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Cotula coronopifolia, Cotula filifolia, Limonium equisetinum, L.decumbens, Samolus porosus, and Puccinellia angusta. On
drier edges, Lycium ferocissimum, Lycium cinereum, and Exomis microphylla may be prominent.
Special plant species: None known; not noted for rare species or endemics in this region.
Major threats and impacts: As noted above, although some of these estuaries are protected they are vulnerable to
impacts of groundwater abstraction. This is particularly true of the Berg River estuary. Other impacts include salt
mining and processing plants, urban development and encroachment of cultivated fields. These estuaries occupy
land that is very valuable in terms of resort, housing estate, and golf course development and, although their
presence and good condition inflate land prices and aesthetic value, these systems are threatened by the
encroachment of these developments. Estuaries are vulnerable to rising sea levels, and sedimentation from
upstream erosion.
PLANT COMMUNITIES OF THE ESTUARY
MICROSCOPIC ALGAE
The micro algal community of the Berg estuary appears to be typical of South African Estuaries and
includes species that are found in the water column (phytoplankton) and on the plant material, mud and stones
within the estuary (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007). They are by far the most important food source for other life in the
estuary.
HIGHER PLANTS
The plant communities are largely distinguishable in terms of sub tidal, intertidal, and floodplain communities.
Sub tidal vegetation is dominated by eel grass Zostera capensis in the lower estuary, which is replaced by
fountain grass Potamageton pectinatus in the less saline upper reaches. The presence of these two plant
communities is strongly linked to the saltiness of the water. On elevated areas the eel grass gives way to cord grass
Spartina maritima, soutbos Bassia diffusa and daisies Cotula spp and brakbos Sarcocornia perennis. Above the intertidal
area the marsh is dominated by Brakbos and where the marsh is inundated during winter by bare patches. Further
upstream in the fresher reaches of the estuary, the narrow intertidal and adjoining floodplain areas are mainly
occupied by sedge marsh, dominated by Schoenoplectus spp. and Cyperus textiles or by taller reed marsh, mainly
stands of Phragmites australis. Behind the reed marsh, many of the inner river bends also contain extensive lowerlying sedge marshes that are flooded during winter, creating sheltered backwater areas (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007). In
the uppermost reaches of the estuary, the riverbanks are lined by riparian woodland, with species such as Salix
mucronata, Rhus tomentosa, Olea spp. and Metrosideros angulstifolia. The riparian area is invaded by Eucalyptus, Acacia
and Populus spp.
ANIMALS
INVERTEBRATES
The invertebrate communities include the zooplankton that occur in the water column and those species that occur
in the bed and on other surfaces in the estuary. The dominant form of invertebrate in the Bergrivier Estuary are
copepods (~98%) the balance being made up of fish larvae, brachyuran larvae, mysid shrimps, amphipods and
other organisms. The zooplankton community is typical of freshwater rich estuaries. Invertebrate community
structure is influenced primarily by salinity and sediment characteristics, both of which are influenced by flow.
Abundance of invertebrates is influenced by sediment more than salinity. The highest densities are associated with
intermediate sediment size. If sediments are too coarse tunnels collapse and there is a relative scarcity of organic
material, whereas very fine sediments are not well oxygenated and require species to have specific adaptations to
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survive. Water plants also affect species abundance inasmuch as they provide a variety of habitats for species to live
in. The microscopic algae are the most important community in the food web in the estuary and provide all the
required food for the invertebrates. The presence and abundance of invertebrates is positively correlated to the
abundance of microscopic algae i.e. the more algae the more invertebrates (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
VERTEBRATES OF THE BERGRIVIER ESTUARY
FISH
The most abundant fish species in the estuary is the southern mullet or
harder, Liza richardsonii (see photo), with the estuarine Round-herring
Gilchristella aestuaria being second most abundant. These, together with
bald goby Caffrogobius nudiceps, silverside Atherina breviceps, sand goby
Psammogobuius knysnaensis and Mozambique tilapia Oreochromis
mossambicus are the dominant species present in the estuary. The
balance is made up of marine species that occur in estuaries.
Interestingly even though marine species are in the minority they make
up in excess of 80% of the biomass of fish within the system (Clark &
Ractcliffe 2007). .
Relative abundance can however shift quite dramatically from year to
year. In some years 75% of species present are marine, in other years this
is reversed with 75% of species being estuarine. Much of the variability
is due to major fluctuations in the presence and abundance of the
southern mullet. This species is typically most abundant in the lowest
10km of the estuary but may be found throughout the estuary at any time. Other such opportunistic species,
including elf Pomatomus saltatrix and white stumpnose Rhabdosargus globiceps, are confined to the lower more saline
reaches and are more common in summer than winter. Gilchristella (entirely resident in estuaries) occurs
throughout the estuary during all seasons but is most abundant between 15-50 km upstream. Other estuarine
residents (not confined to estuaries), such as Atherina breviceps and Psammogobuius knysnaensis, tend to be most
abundant in the lower 30-40 km of the estuary, some showing a distinct preference for higher salinities. The
flathead mullet Mugil cephalus, is present throughout and depends on the estuary as a nursery area. Freshwater
species, viz. tilapia Oreochromis mossamicus
and carp Cyprinus carpia (both alien invasive)
are found in the upper reaches in winter and
tend to move down into the lower estuary
during the dry summer months. In terms of
the food that these fish feed on, four distinct
groups are present. The largest percentage
(80% of the mass of fish present in the
estuary) of fish feed on microscopic algae in
the water column and detritus and include;
the southern mullet, flathead mullet, tilapia
and carp. Zooplankton feeders are in second
place (10% of the mass of fish present) and
include Atherina breviceps and Gilchristella
aestuaria. Fish feeding by filtering the
sediments for food particles or skimming
organisms off the surface of the mud or sand
and those that specialise in eating other fish
make up 5% of the mass of fish present. The
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dominant filter feeding species are the gobies Psammogobius knysnaensis, Caffrogobius nudiceps and C. gilchristi and
white steenbras Lithognathus lithognathus. The specialist fish eaters are the elf Pomatomus saltatrix and leervis Lichia
amia (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
Fresh water flowing into an estuary such as this is very important to fish. They use estuary specific smells in the
freshwater to navigate their way into the estuary. Most of these fish move into the estuary during the low flow
periods of summer. It is therefore
extremely important to retain the
base flow of the river to ensure that
fish can successfully navigate their
way into the estuary. Reduction in
flows would have significant
consequences for fish fauna of the
estuary (Clark & Ractcliffe 2007).
BIRDS
The presence of birds, in particular
wading birds, makes the Berg River
Estuary one of the most important
estuaries in South Africa. The
special attributes related to its size,
habitat importance and zonal type
rarity has resulted in the Berg River
rd
Estuary being rated the 3 most
important estuary in the South
African context. The highest
recorded density of birds recorded on the East Atlantic Seaboard was from
the Berg River Estuary, by number (90%) most of these are migrant waders
from the Northern Hemisphere. It is an important estuary for the young
of these migrants as an over-wintering ground. However it is very
important in terms of some nationally important birds species too. To date
127 species have been recorded, of which 93 are specialised waterbirds.
The average number of birds present in the estuary in mid summer is 14
400 individuals, the numbers are reduced to an average of 1 600 birds by
mid-winter. The estuary supports large numbers of flamingo, duck
species (such as the Cape teal, opposite page), white breasted and reed
cormorants, darters and pelicans (right). In terms of the numbers of birds
present in winter the bird population is dominated by greater & lesser
flamingo's, ducks, red knobbed coot, waders and other rails. The
presence of these birds is closely linked to the type of habitat that they
prefer and saltiness of the water. At the mouth of the estuary the
population is dominated by cormorants, gulls and terns. Just inland in the
lower estuary flamingo's and waders are common in summer and
flamingo's, waders and coots in winter. In the upper estuary the
population is made up of ducks, flamingo's and coots primarily. The
primary reason for this distribution of species throughout the estuary is
linked to the saltiness of the water and the dependence of certain species
on a supply of fresh water which decides the presence or absence of their
favoured food in a given habitat. As a rule of thumb the tolerance of bird
species to salt increases with proximity to the sea. In years of good rainfall
when more fresh water flows into the estuary certain species such as
shelduck, reed cormorants, freshwater terns and pelicans become more abundant. An estuary is a magnet for birds
because it is such a productive ecosystem, bird numbers are therefore good indicators of the productivity or
availability of food in the estuary, the higher their numbers the higher the productivity of the ecosystem.
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ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION
3.1 CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH AFRICA
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) in particular, the Bill of Rights stipulates that:
“Everyone has the right
(a) to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and
(b) to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future
generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that
(i) prevent pollution and ecological degradation;
(ii) promote conservation, and
(iii) secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural
resources while promoting justifiable economic and social
Development” (section 152).
Section 152 of the Constitution, together with Schedule 4 and 5 stipulates that local government must…
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Provide democratic and accountable government for local communities;
Ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner;
Promote social and economic development;
Promote a safe and healthy environment and
Encourage the involvement of communities and community organizations in the matters of local
government.
Schedules 4B and 5B contain 'local government matters” which are the responsibility of local government and
contain the following environmental matters:
3
Air pollution, fire-fighting services, local tourism, municipal health services, storm water management in
built up areas, water and sanitation services (limited to potable water systems and domestic waste-water
and sewerage disposal systems), beaches, cleaning, local amenities, municipal parks and recreation, noise
pollution, public places and refuse removal, refuse dumps and solid waste removal.
3.2 THE WESTERN CAPE CONSTITUTION
The Constitution of the Western Cape (Act 1 of 1998) makes provision for the establishment of and principles
governing a Commissioner for Environment (Section 71). Secondly, two of the directive principles of provincial
policy (Section 81) relate to matters concerning the environment. The Western Cape government must adopt and
implement policies to ensure human welfare and policies that will achieved the following:
The protection of the environment in the Western Cape, imcludig its unique flora and daun, for the benefit of
present and future generations and to ensure protection and conservation of the natural historical, cultural
historical, archaeological and architectural heritage of the Western Cape for the benefit of the present and future
generations.
3.3 NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LEGISLATION
3
National Environmental Management Act
The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (Act 107 of 1998) provides for co-operative environmental
governance by establishing principles for decision making on matters effecting the environmental, institutions that
will promote co-operative governance and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by
organs of state, and to provide for matters connected thereto.
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Chapter 1 (2) of NEMA contains a set of core environmental principles that are applicable to all organs of state that
may significantly affect the environment. Local Government is required to incorporate these into any policy,
programme, plan or any decision made that may have a negative impact on the environment.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations under Section 24(5) of NEMA were promulgated on 21
April 2006 (Government Notice R 385, No. 386, and No. R 387). and come into affect on 1 April 2007. Everyone
wishing to undertake an activity identified in terms of Section 24(2)(a) and (d) of NEMA will need to obtain
authorisation from the competent authority via the prescribed EIA process.
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National Environmental Management: Waste Act
The National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008) describe activities in respect of which a
waste management licence in required according to Section 20(b). Listed activities are divided into two categories
and to each category has its prescriptive process to apply for environmental authorization.
Implication for BRM
Ensure that all sewerage plants and waste management sites and associated infrastructure have
the necessary environmental authorization.
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National Water Act
The National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) deals with water resource management and the sustainable use therof. The
Act provides for the integrated management of all aspects of water resources and the delegations of management to
a regional or catchment level to ensure everyone to participate. Sustainability and equity are identified as key
principles driving protection, use, development, conservation, management and control of water resources.
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Water Services Act
The Water Services Act (Act 108 of 1997) deals with the rights of access to basic water supply and basic sanitation
and sets national norms and standards for tariffs. The Water Services Act emphasise to the local authority to
prepare a water services development plan as part of their IDP.
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Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act
The purpose of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002) is to make provision for
equitable access to and sustainable development of the country's mineral and petroleum resources. The Act
therefore deals with prospecting and mining rights. Every person who has applied for a mining right must
conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA) and submit an environmental management program (EMP).
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National Heritage Resources Act
The purpose of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA) (Act 25 of 1999) is to introduce an integrated and
interactive system for the management of the national heritage resources in South Africa. The Act also serves to
empower civil society to nurture and conserve their heritage resources and to provide for the protection and
management of conservation-worthy places and areas by local authorities.
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3
National Forests Act
The purpose of the National Forests Act (act 84 of 1998) is amongst others to promote the sustainable management
and development of forests for the benefit of all.
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National Veld and Forest Fire Act
The purpose of the National Veld and Forest Fire Act (No 101 of 1998) is to prevent and combat veld, forest and
mountain fires in South Africa. The Greater Cederberg Fire protection were registered in 2005 with the Minister of
Water Affairs and Forestry.
Implications for BRM
All state land must join the local Fire protection Association and therefore the BRM must
become a member of the Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association.
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Marine Living Resource Act
The Marine Living Resource Act (No.18 of 1998) provide for the conservation of the marine ecosystem, the longterm sustainable utilization of marine living resources and the orderly access to exploitation, utilisation and
protection of certain marine living resources; and for these purposes to provide for the exercise of control over
marine living resources in a fair and equitable manner to the benefit of all the citizens of South Africa; and to
provide for matters connected therewith.
3
Land Use Planning Ordinance
The Land Use Planning Ordinance (Ordinance 15 of 1985) serves to regulate land use planning and to provide for
matter incidental thereto. The Ordinance provides for the preparation and submission of Structure Plans and
Implications for BRM
Every local authority shall comply and enforce compliance with the provisions of the Ordinance.
Zoning Schemes, and provides stipulations in terms of the subdivision and rezoning of land. The Land Use
Planning Ordinance Amendment Act (Act 2 of 2004) extends to 19 years the period during which owners of land
may exercise land use rights.
3
Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance
The Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance (ordinance 19 of 1974) serves to consolidate and amend
the laws relating to nature and environmental conservation. The Act provides for the protection of wild animals,
fish in inland waters and flora, and requires that a permit be obtained to undertake certain actions regarding the
latter natural resources.
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PLANNING FRAMEWORKS
4. PLANNING FRAMEWORKS FOR BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION
This is an overview of the environmental plans, policies and guidelines applicable to the BRM within the context of
environmental planning, conservation and management.
4.1 INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORKS
There are several international treaties which have relevance to the BRM, including the Convention on
Biodiversity; the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora; the Ramsar
Convention on Wetlands of International Importance; the Convention on the Protection of World Cultural and
Natural Heritage Sites; the African Convention on Conservation of Natural Resources, Convention on Migratory
Species of Wild Animals and the Convention to Combat Desertification (West Coast District Authority 2006).
4.2 NATIONAL FRAMEWORKS
National plans, policies and guidelines that are relevant to the environment includes the Reconstruction and
Development Programme, Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Strategy, National Spatial Development
Perspective, National Strategy for Sustainable Development , Local Agenda 21, National Biodiversity Strategy and
Action plan, National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (West Coast District Authority 2006).
4.3 PROVINCIAL FRAMEWORKS
The Western Cape Provincial Government have prepare various documents that are relevant to the Bergrivier
and which are important for environmental planning, conservation and management. These are the Western Cape
Environmental Implementation Plan, Western Cape Provincial Spatial Development Framework, Guidelines for
Resort Developments in the Western Cape, Guidelines for Golf Courses, Golf Estates, Polo Fields and Polo Estates
in the Western Cape, Western Cape Provincial Urban Edge Guideline, Western Cape State of the Environment
Report, Growth Potential of Towns in the Western Cape, Western Cape Provincial Growth and Development
Strategy, A Settlement Framework for the Western Cape Province, Green Paper, Bioregional Planning Framework
for the Western Cape Province, Draft Coastal Zone Policy for the Western Cape, The Integrated Coastal
Management Programme for the Western Cape, Western Cape Promotion of Sustainable Development Bill
(Preliminary outcomes of the Provincial Law Reform Process), Ikapa Elihlumayo A Framework for the
Development for the Development of the Western Cape Province (2004-2007), Micro Economic Development
Strategy for the Western Cape (2005), Strategic Infrastructure Plan for the Western Cape Province (2005),
Guidelines for environmental decision making by Municipalities in the Western Cape (West Coast District
Authority 2006).
4.4 LOCAL FRAMEWORKS
The Integrated Development Plan (IDP)
The Bergrivier Integrated Development Plan was approved during May 2007. During the 3 rd review of this plan the
following strategic objectives were identified by the stakeholders as priorities, that need specific attention:
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Motivated and represented employees through developing skills and empowerment and effective
utilisation of personnel;
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Management and protection of assets;
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Effective communication;
Qualitative and balanced service delivery;
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Accountable and transparent governance;
Effective Customer Care;
Effective Infrastructure maintenance and development;
Effective policing;
Eradication of housing backlogs;
Addressing ward based needs;
Local Economic Development (Bergrivier Municipality, 2010).
The Bergrivier Spatial Development Framework (SDF)
The Bergrivier Spatial Development Framework was completed in 2008 and proposed spatial guidelines to take effect
within the municipal area in order to direct future spatial interventions as a result of growth, development and policy
and to reduce developmental disparities.
Lower Berg River Sub-Regional Structure Plan (1999)
The purpose of this structure plan is to provide in the needs of both the rural and urban populations of the
region in such a manner that the sustainable use of the environment and resources will be ensured.
The following strategies have been formulated in terms of the plan:
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3
3
Development guidelines of the urban component (Velddrif, Laaiplek and Dwarskersbos) as well as the
transitional zone to the agricultural area;
The proclamation of a Protected Area to protect the river and improve management of the river banks;
Research is necessary to be formulated hydrographical management guidelines for the Berg River.
Verlorenvlei Local Structure Plan (1996)
Policies are recommended to fulfil the above aims and to provide decision-makers with a framework for the
management of development in this unique environmental asset. The plan also takes into account the roles of
agencies such as WWF-SA, Wildlife Society and Botanical Society. CapeNature is the principal stakeholder in this
process, as the management authority for Verlorenvlei.
Sub-Regional Structure Plan for the Coastal Area Dwarskersbos to Olifants River (1992)
The structure plan comprises of a series of plans that indicate an over-arching land-use pattern, with appropriate
proposals and guidelines for the above issues. The following were addressed in this plan:
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Public access to the coast;
Achieving a compromise between conservation and development;
Identifying conservation-worthy and sensitive areas;
Identifying potential areas for development; and
Managing state land along the high-water mark.
Sub-Regional Structure Plan for the Coastal Area Velddrif to Bokpunt (1990)
The primary objective of the structure plan is to provide a framework for harmonious development and for
preventing potential conflicts between the interests of urbanisation, recreation and conservation. The structure
plan comprises of a series of plans that indicate an over-arching land-use pattern, with appropriate policies and
principles. Specific issues relating to recreational developments are addressed.
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Porterville Mountain Development Plan
The development plan, which serves to achieves sustainable utilisation of the area through spatial planning and
management guidelines, that focus on aspects such as housing and settlement, human welfare, service provision,land
reform, conservation, promotion of tourism and safeguarding the agricultural integrity. The plan identifies short term
and medium term priorities for implementation (West Coast District Municipality 2002).
Piket-Bo-Berg Development Plan
The development plan, which serves to achieves sustainable utilisation of the area through spatial planning and
management guidelines, that focus on aspects such as housing and settlement, human welfare, service provision,
land reform, conservation, promotion of tourism and safeguarding the agricultural integrity. The plan identifies short
term and medium term priorities for implementation (West Coast District Municipality 2002).
Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor
The Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor Plans include the following: GCBC Planning Phase report, Spatial
Planning, Technical Report, GCBC Economic pre-feasibility study, GCBC Community Engagement study,
GCBC Biodiversity Profile and GCBC Regional Tourism Development Plan. These documents are available from
the CapeNature office in Porterville.
Protected Area Management Plans
Protected Area Management Plans generally provide more detail on the reserve itself and prescribe actions to
managed biodiversity but also include broader contextual information such as tourism opportunities, local economic
development and Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM).
4.5
BIODIVERSITY MAPS
4.5.1 NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY PLANNING MAPS
MAP 10: NATIONAL SPATIAL BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT
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4.5.2 CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS (CBA) MAP
The Critical Biodiversity Areas Map for the BRM was produced through a systematic biodiversity planning process
at a scale of 1:10 000. It should be used to assess and identify those areas in the municipality that require
conservation to ensure the persistence of species and habitats, as well as areas for ecological and evolutionary
processes that maintain biodiversity. This is a crucial tool that should be used to guide sustainable development
and align landuse management with the critically important elements of biodiversity in the municipality. This is an
especially important forward planning document that should be used to design response strategies to global
climate change. Importantly the map represents the most efficient (in terms of the space allocated to conservation)
way to conserve the important features of biodiversity in the landscape.
Definitions of the Critical Biodiversity Areas Map Categories
According to Maree and Vromans, 2010.
Protected Areas - These are terrestrial or marine areas that are formally protected in terms of the National
Environment Management: Protected Areas Act (Act No. 57 of 2003) and/or Marine Living Resources Act (Act No.
18 of 1998).
Critical Biodiversity Areas - Critical Biodiversity Areas are those areas required to meet biodiversity thresholds.
They are areas of land or aquatic features (or riparian buffer vegetation alongside CBA aquatic features) which must
be safeguarded in their natural state if biodiversity is to persist and ecosystems are to continue functioning. These
Critical Biodiversity Areas incorporate: i) areas that need to be safeguarded in order to meet national biodiversity
pattern thresholds (target area), ii) areas required to ensure the continued existence and functioning of species and
ecosystems (including the delivery of ecosystem services); and/or iii) important locations for biodiversity features
or rare species. The CBA network represents the most land-efficient option to achieving all biodiversity targets.
Ecological Support Areas - Ecological Support Areas (ESA) are supporting zones required to prevent the
degradation of Critical Biodiversity Areas and Protected Areas. An ESA may be an aquatic feature, e.g. a specific
river reach that feeds into an aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas; or a terrestrial feature, e.g. the riparian habitat
surrounding and supporting Critical or Other Ecological Support Area rivers or wetlands. Ecological Support
Areas can be further subdivided into Critical Ecological Support Areas (CESA) and Other Ecological Support Areas
(OESA). Critical Ecological Support Areas are those aquatic features (with their terrestrial buffers) which fall within
priority sub-catchments, whose protection through wise management is required in order to support the aquatic
and terrestrial CBA. An example might be a river reach which feeds directly into a CBA. Other Ecological Support
Areas are all remaining aquatic ecosystems (not classed as CESA or CBA) (with their terrestrial buffers) which have
a less direct impact on the CBA, e.g. an isolated and degraded wetland which although geographically separated
from a CBA, still contributes to ecological processes such as groundwater recharge which indirectly impacts on
CBA downstream. Other Natural Areas Other Natural Areas are those areas of natural or near-natural vegetation
identified on the map whose safeguarding is not required in order to meet national thresholds. A site can only be
classified as an Other Natural Area if the extent of the ecosystem represented by that site exceeds its threshold. In
such cases, some loss through conversion of the natural state of that ecosystem may be allowed. It is important to
note that if all earmarked Critical Biodiversity Areas are not protected it will result in certain Other Natural Areas
having to be reclassified as Critical Biodiversity Areas in order to meet thresholds. Therefore, in all decisionmaking, the precautionary principle needs to be applied.
No Natural Remaining Areas - No Natural Remaining Areas are those sites identified on the CBA Map, which have
been irreversibly transformed through development (e.g. urban development, plantation, agriculture) or poor
land management (e.g. erosion) and as a result, no longer contribute to the biodiversity of the area. However, there
are a few exceptions to the classification of transformed lands. Some small patches of cultivated or otherwise
disturbed land have been classified as ESA or even CBA. The reason is that these areas still support biodiversity in
some way (e.g. strips of natural veld growing between rooibos shrubs can still form important stepping stones for
species to migrate, which means that this kind of land-use provides a corridor which is classified as a Critical
Biodiversity Area). Such areas (transformed or degraded lands which have nonetheless been classified as CBA)
require some form of safeguarding, e.g. no further hardening of surfaces should be permitted.
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TABLE 6: LAND COVER CATEGORIES FOR THE BRM
(Natural refers to pristine natural vegetation and aquatic features. Near-natural includes those areas where some degree of
degradation is evident but where restoration and / or rehabilitation should be considered, e.g. moderately disturbed vegetation,
moderately infested with invasive alien plants. Degraded lands are those areas which are severely impacted (usually due to dense
invasive alien plants) and which can be rehabilitated, but at great cost. It is important to note that alien invasions were not
mapped at a high accuracy for the entire domain. It is therefore likely
BRM
that the actual levels of invasion are far higher than recorded below.
Furthermore, degraded areas are likely to increase in extent over
Natural
40.43%
time, while natural and near-natural are likely to decrease.
Near natural
3.91%
Production areas are agricultural lands which are currently under
Degraded
6.32%
production (including fallow fields less than 10 years old).
Production
48.02%
Transformed refers to land which has undergone irreversible
Transformed (ex cluding urban) 1.19%
development, and includes the urban built-up environments and
Urban
2.03%
infrastructure (such as dams) and mining areas (Maree and
Vromans, 2009).
MAP 11: TERRESTRIAL CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AREAS OF
THE BRM
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TABLE 7: CRITERIA USED TO DEFINE CBA'S
(Maree and Vromans, 2009)
CBA Map
Category
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Criteria Defining the Category
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TABLE 7: CRITERIA USED TO DEFINE CBA'S CONTINUED
Supporting zone required to prevent degradation of Critical Biodiversity Areas and
Protected Areas
§ All remaining wetlands or river reaches and their terrestrial buffer area (riparian
Desired Management Objectives for CBA's
The Desired Management Objective for a parcel of land or aquatic feature refers to the ecological state or condition in
which it should be maintained through decision making and the management of appropriate land or resource use
activities (Maree and Vromans, 2009). Biodiversity areas identified as important should be maintained in their
present state. Further development should be focussed in degraded and transformed areas.
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TABLE 8: THE DESIRED MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES FOR THE
CBA'S OF THE BRM
CBA Map Category
Desired Management
Objective
Critical Biodiversity
Areas (terrestrial),
Critical Biodiversity
Areas (aquatic
feature and buffer)
and Protected Areas
Maintain natura l
land. Rehabilitate
degraded to natural
or near natural and
manage for no further
degradation.
Ecological Support
Areas (Critical Ecological
Support Area: feature
and buffer; and Other
Ecological Support Area:
feature and buffer)
Maintain ecological
processes.
Other Natural Areas and
No Natural Remaining
Areas
Sustainable development
development
Sustainable
management within
within
and management
rural land-use
land-use
general rural
principles.Favoured
principles.
Favoured
areasor
areas
fordevelopment.
development
Municipalities have a very important role to play in ensuring that appropriate environmental authorisations are
issued and that the correct procedures are followed in the development application process. In terms of the
environmental authorisation process the municipality should:
3
Only issue an approval for a development once all other applications have been authorised (e.g.
environmental authorisations for development rights from DEA & DP or water licences from DWA, or
3
In responding to a development application, make it explicit that work can begin only once other
authorisations are in place.
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INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
5.1
INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE
Municipal interaction with the NEMA EIA process, rezoning applications and subdivisions are handled by the
town planning section of the Administrative Service Directorate.
The Municipality doesn't have a dedicated section or staff component to deal with environmental and biodiversity
management and these aspects are not contained in the IDP even though it is required by national legislation. It is
clear that an environment management section should be established within the municipality and posts built into
the current organogram. Because of the size of the BRM it is recommended that three posts are created, a qualified
Nature Conservator supported by two extension officers would be ideal. The biodiversity of the municipality is of
international importance and there are very real threats to its survival. As such these posts should be advertised as
soon as possible and appointments made. The key performance areas of appointed staff could include biodiversity
inputs and comments from a municipal perspective in the EIA process, conservation planning, biodiversity
management, fire management activities, the eradication of alien invasive species, awareness raising and
environmental education and community based natural resource management initiatives.
5.2
MAINSTREAMING BIODIVERSITY INTO GOVERNANCE
Historically biodiversity management was focussed on the establishment of formal protected areas, the erection of
fences to keep people out and law enforcement actions to ensure that biodiversity was protected.
However it soon became apparent that upwards of 80% of national biodiversity occurred on private property. This
realisation refocused conservation effort to include off reserve conservation interventions and management. The
planning and implementation to support this new focus took the form of the Cape Fine Scale Planning, Greater
Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor and the CapeNature Stewardship Programme.
The greatest threat to biodiversity within the municipality is linked to agricultural development. Mainstreaming of
biodiversity conservation into the agricultural sector was seen as the
primary means of addressing off reserve conservation in an
environment dominated by agricultural development.
Two projects were launched by the Greater
Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor in
collaboration with Potatoes South Africa
and the South African Rooibos Council
in the pursuit of the objective. They
became known as the Biodiversity
Best Practices for Potato Production
in the Sandveld and the Right
Rooibos project. The focus of these
projects has broadened and
become driven by a vision for a
sustainable agricultural future.
As such they are a perfect
platform for the municipality to
engage with the rural
community is the drive
t o w a r d s s u s t a i n a b i l i t y.
Opportunities should be
sought to link biodiversity
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INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
conservation, the provision of basic services and socio-economic upliftment to mainstreaming
projects such as these.
These are but two initiatives, organisations such as CapeNature, SANBI, Departments of
Agriculture, Department of Water Affairs, DEA & DP and NGO's are all engaged in planning,
research, implementation and the co-ordination of existing projects. The mainstreaming of
biodiversity conservation into the governance structures of the municipality should be
encouraged and become a standing point on Council meetings and municipal management
meetings.
5.3
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER AGENCIES
The municipality should become an active participant on collaborative forums such as the
Sandveld Forum, Water Users Associations and Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association
that have been created to provide a platform for collaborative management between
government departments, exchange information on current projects and encourage responsible
resource use and management by civil society. There are a number of existing statutory and
voluntary conservation sites, environmental planning, conservation and management
initiatives present within the BRM that are illustrated and discussed in the following section.
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CONSERVATION IMPLEMENTATION
6.1 STATUTORY PROTECTED AREAS
These are terrestrial or marine areas that are formally protected in terms of the National Environment
Management: Protected Areas Act (Act No. 57 of 2003) and/or Marine Living Resources Act (Act No.
18 of 1998). Ownership nestled within governmental institutions and private landowners.
TABLE 9: STATUTORY PROTECTED AREAS OF THE BRM
Name of Statutory Protected Area
Groot Winterhoek
Rocher Pan
Tweekuilen Contract Nature
Reserve
Redelinghuys Contract Nature
Reserve
Rust Roes Contract Nature
Reserve
Vredelust Biodiversity Agreement
Winterhoek Mountain Catchment
Conservation Status
Authority
Size
(ha)
Wilderness (19 200 ha)
Provincial nature reserve (11 408ha)
Entire area is one of the eight protected areas that
constitute the Cape Floral Region World Heritage
Sites.
Provincial Nature Reserve
CapeNature
30 608
CapeNature
930
Contract Nature Reserve
Owner & CapeNature
879
Contract Nature Reserve
BRM & CapeNature
62
Contract Nature Reserve
Owner & CapeNature
892
Biodiversity Agreement
Owner & CapeNature
CapeNature & Private
Landowners
TOTAL
227
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Mountain Catchment Area
15 356
48 727
6.2 VOLUNTARY PROTECTED AREAS
Private nature reserves were proclaimed under the Nature Conservation Ordinance, but since have
been replaced by the formal stewardship agreements. Conservancies are informal arrangements
between two or more landowners to improve resource management and collaboration in a specific
area. These sites are predominately owned by private landowners but institutions like CapeNature
always participate in the management of conservancies.
TABLE 10: VOLUNTARY PROTECTED AREAS OF THE BRM
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Name of volunteer conservation areas
Size (ha)
Members
Groot Winterhoek Conservancy
19 000
17
Bergrivier Conservancy
12 774
10
Krom Antonies Conservancy
11 800
15
Gys se Kraal
1082
1
Banghoek Private Nature Reserve
1035
1
Stalkrans Private Nature Reserve
77
1
Die Eiland Private Nature Reserve
56
1
Waterval Private Nature Reserve
249
1
TOTAL
46 073
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MAP 12 STATUTORY AND VOLUNTARY CONSERVATION SITES
WITHIN THE BRM
CAPENATURE STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMME
Stewardship refers to the wise use, management and protection of that which has been entrusted to
your care. Within the context of conservation, stewardship means wisely using natural resources on
your property, protecting important ecosystems, effectively managing alien invasive species, fires,
harvesting and grazing without damaging the natural vegetation. The CapeNature Stewardship
Program facilitates the establishment of formal conservation areas as Contract Nature Reserves and
Biodiversity Agreements on private property which are declared under the National Environmental
Management Protected Areas Act.
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6.3
GREATER CEDERBERG BIODIVERSITY CORRIDOR
The Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor (GCBC) is a landscape scale conservation initiative
of global importance. It is a multi-stakeholder driven conservation intervention that aims to
conserve a representative sample of biodiversity of the Cape Floral Region and the Succulent
Karoo in a “lived-in, worked-in landscape”. This conservation intervention has seen the
creation of a multitude of partnerships between authorities, government departments,
communities, landowners, non governmental organizations and conservation agencies.
MAP 13 THE GCBC PLANNING DOMAIN
”
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The vision of the GCBC is encapsulated by the following statement: “From Karoo to Coast, we in the Greater
Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor share a common purpose for biodiversity conservation trough sustainable
utilization of its unique living landscape.”
This is achieved by “learning and working together” so that “all the people of the Greater Cederberg Biodiversity
Corridor live sustainably with, and benefit from, their natural resources now and into the future through
appropriate conservation and management of the regions unique biodiversity”.
The goal of the GCBC: “In the face of climate change, effectively conserve the biodiversity of the Greater
Cederberg by 2020 and beyond, and through its efforts deliver significant benefits to the people of the area.”
SUCCESS STORIES
The GCBC has five strategic directions within which the project is co-ordinated and managed. A few of the success
stories associated with these strategic directions are:
3
Consolidate and expand protected areas in the GCBC
Since the initiation of the project in 2006, formally protected areas on private property within the municipality have
expanded from zero ha's to 2 060 hectares in 2010. All of these new reserves are located within the highly
threatened Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos
and Graafwater Sandstone Fynbos and
include small fragments of critically
endangered Swartland Shale
Renosterveld. As such they are of
immense importance in conserving a
national asset of global significance. The
property belonging to the BRM south of
the town of Redelinghuys is one such
formally protected area. This relatively
small area is regarded as one of the most
important sites for the conservation of
rare and endangered species associated
with Leipoldville Sand Fynbos.
Two of the core corridors of the GCBC
are partially situated within the
boundaries of the BRM, the Sandveld
Redelinghuys
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and Groot Winterhoek Freshwater Stewardship Core Corridors. These corridors are a matrix of natural and
transformed areas in a “lived-in, work-in” landscape where biodiversity conservation priorities (Critical
Biodiversity Areas) are recognised as a formal land use. The aim to create connected corridors of natural vegetation
across altitudinal gradients and soil types from the Olifantsberg and Piketberg Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.
The Groot Winterhoek Freshwater Stewardship Corridor aims to establish the linkage between Groot Winterhoek
and the Cederberg Wilderness and aims primarily to ensure the provison of high quality and quantity of water and
protect some of the most important and endangered fish species in the country. The establishment of the corridor
will be used to promote the importance of ecosystem services such as the sustainable provision of high quality
water through awareness, education and extension to landowners, farm workers and school children. The
Stewardship model developed by CapeNature will be used to establish formal conservation areas within this
corridor.
3
Industry involvement: Mainstreaming Biodiversity Conservation into the Agricultural Sector
The recognition that the agricultural sector is the primary driver responsible for the loss of habitat and thus the
greatest threat to biodiversity was the reason the GCBC embarked on a process to pro-actively engage with
Potatoes South Africa and the South African Rooibos Council. The expansion of these two industries in the last two
to three decades has seen a total transformation in the
appearance of the landscape within the Sandveld. The overabstraction of water and the transformation of natural
vegetation without the required authorisations is a threat that
persists to this day. These projects aim to encourage producers
to voluntarily adopt biodiversity best practices on their
properties.
The projects aim to establish a sustainable agricultural system
on the producer farms and as such focus on good agricultural
practice and social and economic aspects of sustainability.
3
Promote local economic development through
biodiversity and to promote human well-being
An opportunity for Local Economic Development (LED) was
created in the Verlorenvlei catchment through the establishment and implementation of a Working for Wetlands
project. This programme is managed and funded by the South
African National Biodiversity institute (SANBI) and is part of the
Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). The project aims to
rehabilitate the unique Verlorenvlei system through the removal of
alien invasive species and flow impediments and thereby increase the
volume of water flowing out of the catchments and through
restorative efforts re-instate the natural flow into the Verlorenvlei.
Successes of the project:
3
Twenty six employment opportunities were created by the
project per year since its inception in 2006;
3
The project is coupled to skills development and capacity
building and has been successful in linking project contractors to employment opportunities in the private
sector;
3
A total of 1 108.37 hectares of alien invasive species have been cleared since 2006.
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3
GCBC Awareness Raising
Various broad target groups (audiences) have been identified, linked to each of the strategic directions of the GCBC
and include:
3
3
3
3
3
3
Expansion of Protected Areas - Landowners, farmers, farm worker groups & industries;
Industry Engagement - Industry partners, landowners & farmers;
Human Wellbeing - Communities, small-scale farmers, up-and-coming farmers & youth (school groups);
Local Economic Development - Communities, Farmers & Local authorities;
Awareness - General public & GCBC communities;
Coordination - Funders, CapeNature (internal), local authorities, NGO's & CBO's.
Awareness projects currently implemented within the GCBC domain:
1. Schools
3
3
The Krokkitor Schools Program (Resources developed: Krokkitor I, II, Activity Book & Puppet Show);
Environmental Education Programs aligned to Environmental Calendar Days (Marine Week, Wetlands
Day and Environment Day.);
3
Pilot Project: Landscape Education Program (culturalhistorical and environmental aspects) in collaboration
with partners (Kalmar Lans Museum, Sweden, UCT &
Living Landscapes Project and Local Schools).
2. Landowners, land users, farmers & farm worker groups
3
GCBC Outreach Program (Presentation & Booklet
produced specifically to increase awareness on the GCBC
on contracted Stewardship sites). Other materials from
the Stewardship Program of CapeNature are incorporated
(Booklet produced describing the establishment of
corridors and the process where by landowners can
become involved in the establishment of protected areas.);
3
A guideline has been
produced for farmers/producers on the management of wetlands, and
is implemented as part of the Working for Wetlands, West Coast Project
Awareness Campaign and Best Practice Guidelines developed in
collaboration with Potato and Rooibos Industries.
3. Communities (in the broad sense)
3
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Damage Causing Wild Animals Outreach Program - This Program
focuses on creating awareness of the GCBC, the role of predators in the
environment & the benefit humans gain from the presence of predators
in the environment. Interaction takes the form of questionnaires
dealing with problems that are experienced within the communities
and examines community perceptions. The program provides training
on the legal aspects of control and best practice in terms of
management and the use of deterrents to prevent damage;
BIODIVERSITY REPORT | BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY | 2010
3
An Incident Register has been produced to help record annual losses. It includes the assimilation of
management actions undertaken to prevent loss. The information gathered is fed back into CapeNature whose
responsibility it is to assess whether the losses experienced were appropriately addressed and/or to provide
adaptive strategies to be implemented and/or to provide communities with the necessary skills and knowledge
to address the challenges they face in this regard;
3
Community Knowledge Exchanges provide peer learning opportunities, such as the recent GCBC & Cape
Flats Nature Community Knowledge Exchange that provided community members with a platform from
which to learn, share, network and promote their communities & projects.
4. General Public (GCBC communities & broader)
General awareness around biodiversity conservation in the context of landscape-scale projects, such as the Greater
Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor and their importance in providing the space for adaptation and mitigation to climate
change are provided through the amongst others, the following:
- GCBC Website: http://cederbergcorridor.org.za/;
- GCBC DVD;
- Various brochures (used in conjunction with programs, exhibitions,
events.);
- Banners (used in conjunction with programs, exhibitions and events);
- E-newsletters to partners & placed on partner websites;
- Media releases produced and placed in local and regional newspapers;
- Creation of various platforms and making use of partner platforms to create
greater awareness of the project.
3
GCBC Coordination
The project is co-ordinated through the GCBC Steering Committee and the
Project Management Unit located in Porterville. The Co-ordinator Johan
Burger can be contacted on 022 931 2900 .
6.4
ASSOCIATIONS
Associations are an effective means of organising members around a
common issue, a platform to encourage discourse and information sharing
and a mouth piece through which members can pro-actively engage and be represented with/to other key stakeholders.
A number of active associations are operational within the municipal boundary.
6.4.1 THE GREATER CEDERBERG FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION
Fire is a keystone factor in the long term survival of fynbos and the cycle of destruction, regeneration and maturation,
and will prevail into the future. To survive in a fire driven system such as this, many fynbos plants and animals have
evolved adaptations to respond to fire (Cowling and Richardson 1995).
However as the major driving force fire can also pose the greatest threat to the biodiversity of the Cape Floral Region. If
fires burn too frequently or too rarely, the plant structure, composition and ecosystem function changes for the worse.
If not managed properly the favourable conditions created after the fire for the germination of alien invasive seed may
have a huge impact on biodiversity in the BRM.
The impacts of global climate change will exacerbate the risk of fire. This will translate into a significant management
challenge for the municipality not only in terms of potential damage to the local socio-economic sphere, but for the
maintenance of biodiversity as well.
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The Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association (GCFPA) was registered in 2005 with the Minister of the
Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. A key challenge this association is facing is in aligning its activities and
actions in such a manner that it will mitigate the impacts of climate change over the coming decades.
The vision of the GCFPA
is to promote integrated
fire management in the
GCFPA in order to
minimise losses to social,
economic and ecological
assets. This is achieved
through the successful
implementation of
strategies focussing on
fire awareness, fire
prevention, fire
preparedness and fire
protection.
Successes of this
association
Membership is up to
276 landowners and
communities with a
current size of 417 744
hectares. The growth
of the association is
rapid and increasing
annually.
Integrated fire management plans for various management units have been completed and focus on the mitigation of
risk, improve awareness and implementation of appropriate ecological acceptable fire regimes.
The GCFPA has recently established a partnership with Working on Fire and the BRM to appoint 22 people from
Piketberg that will be trained and used as fire fighters and to perform risk mitigation work.
6.4.2 VELDDRIF HERITAGE FOUNDATION
The Velddrif Heritage Foundation is registered as a Conservation Body with Heritage Western Cape.
The objective of the foundation is to:
3
3
3
Protect places with historical and cultural values;
Create awareness and interest in conservation amongst the general public;
Provide technical assistance to the alterations and or development of conservation worthy heritage
resources.
Projects currently underway are the restoration of the old Laaiplek cemetery, the catalogue of old fisherman cottages
and old buildings (with the assistance and help from local schools), the monitoring of new developments in order to
ensure that no heritage resources are impacted on and establishment of a museum that showcases the local history
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and the pelagic fish industry.
6.4.3 VELDDRIF BERGRIVIER CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION (VBRCA)
This body has been active for the past 15 years, and is constituted by a wide spectrum of interested and
concerned people from the town and farming communities. Various statutory organizations, such as
CapeNature, DEA & DP, MCM, and the local Municipality are represented. The main goal of the Association is
to focus on the status and integrity of the Berg River Estuary as an extremely sensitive and important ecological
system, and to identify and bring to the attention of appropriate authorities any aspects that may threaten the
integrity and functioning of the system.
Some achievements in the past few years include:
3
In collaboration with a number of statutory organizations, preparation and presentation of proposals to
DEA & DP for registration of the Berg River Estuary as RAMSAR Wetland (these were not successful due
to the fragmented nature of authority over the Estuary, and unfortunate lack of commitment by the local
Municipality);
3
Registration of a Conservancy including farms on both northern and southern sides of the Estuary;
3
Production of an information pamphlet to inform locals and tourists regarding the special features of the
Estuary as a Wetland of national importance;
3
Doing the groundwork for the establishment of a Management Forum for the Estuary.
6.4.4
KROM ANTONIES WATER USERS ASSOCIATION
The rains which fall on the Piketberg feed the Krom Antonies River which has sustained farming in the fertile
Moutonshoek Valley for 300 years. The Piket-Bo-Berg and the Moutonshoek Valley produce export fruit, nuts,
olives, potatoes, proteas and world class horses, and provide work and a livelihood for hundreds of local people.
The Krom Antonies River feeds the Verloren River which runs past Redelinghuys on its way to the sea. This water
constitutes 60% by volume of that received by the Verlorenvlei, which forms an estuary at Elands Bay and
functions as a nursery for the local fishing industry. The Krom Antonies Water Users Association has been
established in collaboration with the DWA to manage this very limited and important resource through a
community-based structure.
6.5 SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL “BEST PRACTICES”
6.5.1
SUSTAINABLE ROOIBOS PRODUCTION “RIGHT ROOIBOS”
The goal of the Right Rooibos Initiative is to:
75
3
Ensure sustainable development of the Rooibos industry through the protection
and development of ecological, social and financial resources;
3
To determine and implement sustainable practices throughout the
industry;
3
Promote the protection of the biodiversity on private land, with or without
entering into a formal agreement with authorities;
3
Implement best practices as determined by the Right Rooibos standards for
Rooibos production in order to improve harmony with nature and that the
BIODIVERSITY REPORT | BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY | 2010
people working in and lived in the industry will gain financial benefit;
3
To develop a certification system that acknowledges produces that comply with the Right Rooibos
standards and to create markets for sustainable certified Rooibos;
3
To develop a long term reputation of good practices for Rooibos production that is link and
associated to the conservation of a Global Biodiversity Hotspot, and ethical production practices.
Successes of the Right Rooibos:
3
Development of a guideline document "Biodiversity Best Practices for Rooibos Production;
3
36 Rooibos producers are currently implementing the guidelines, total area covered 95000 hectares;
3
Definite market interest in certified Rooibos - establish Right Rooibos certification, Utz Certified
certification and Rainforest Alliance certification at the end of 2010;
3
Secure Landcare funding to implement an alien invasive eradication program in a CBA. In a
partnership agreement between 5 Rooibos producers, Right Rooibos and Landcare.
6.5.2
BIODIVERSITY BEST PRACTICES FOR POTATO PRODUCTION IN THE SANDVELD
Agriculture and in particular potato production is the core economic activity in the Sandveld area of the
Western Cape. On average approximately 6500 hectares
of potatoes are planted annually for the production of
seed potatoes, fresh potatoes and potatoes for the
processing industry (French fries and frozen products).
The value of the National Industry is estimates at
9
approx. R 4.0 billion (10 ) per annum. A significant
portion of this annual turnover is generated in the
Sandveld with an annual turnover that can approach
R400 million per annum (Calculated on 6500 ha x 40t/ha x
R13/10kg), offering job opportunities to some 3 250
workers. Input costs in the Sandveld are high and have
risen from R 65 000-00 p/ha last year to R105 000-00 p/ha
this year primarily as a result of escalating fuel, fertiliser
and crop protection costs.
Climatic conditions and other farming conditions often
pose great challenges to the farmer in maintaining a
viable enterprise. Projections from global climate change
modelling exercises conducted by the University of the
Witwatersrand for the area show decreased rainfall in
the interior and increased minimum and maximum
temperatures which translate into less water availability
and increased evapo-transpiration from the plants.
These conditions pose a significant risk to the business
and biodiversity of the area in the years to come. This is
because, with the exception of the production along the Olifants and Berg Rivers, almost all irrigation
depends on groundwater as a source of water, and less will be available in time to come. While the
underground water reserve volume remains unknown at present, there is evidence of over-abstraction and
reduced water quality in some aquifers.
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In addition, a number of important biodiversity features are found within the area. The core of the production
area coincides with an important ecological corridor, the Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor, linking the
conservation areas (including two World Heritage Sites) with the lowlands and the coast. The Verlorenvlei inland
of Elands Bay is a World Heritage Wetland under a RAMSAR treaty. The vegetation of this area has been
identified as a international biodiversity hotspot thus an area of global
biodiversity significance, at least 65 rare and threatened plant species, 30 of
which are unique to this region, and a large number of threatened animal
species occur in the Sandveld. Three entire vegetation types (ecosystems)
are restricted to this area, and all three are regarded as nationally threatened.
Recent studies suggest that a further four new vegetation types should be
recognised in this area, all of which are threatened.
The sustainability of the agricultural system is dependent on the wise use of
natural resources. One of the legs of sustainability is the environment, and
in the production area on the West Coast it is being impacted in two key
ways. Firstly the clearing of these threatened habitats for agricultural
production and the abstraction of the water resource on which the business
and many internationally important water dependent ecosystems depend.
Potatoes South Africa and CapeNature have joined forces to address these
challenges to agricultural sustainability through an initiative that has been
named the Biodiversity Best Practices for Potato Production in the Sandveld.
The projects key objectives are aimed at the:
3
Improvement of general farming practice through the implementation of the biodiversity best practice
guidelines including the conservation of Critical Biodiversity Areas;
3
3
To improve soil conservation through the implementation of sound soil management principles;
To improve water conservation through the implementation of efficient irrigation guidelines;
3
To improve soil fertility and plant nutrition through the implementation
of effective fertilisation guidelines;
3
To promote integrated pest management and
biological farming principles aimed at minimising
the environmental impacts of agrochemicals.
Progress with the Potatoes South
Africa Best Practices Project have
been:
3
3
77
There are currently 30
producers that have joined the
project;
The project area spans 86 000 ha
of which 42 500 is still natural
veld, 86% of this natural
vegetation is threatened. Large
BIODIVERSITY REPORT | BERGRIVIER MUNICIPALITY | 2010
areas are identified as CBA's (CAPE FSP).
This illustrates the ability of a project
such as this to influence landuse practice
at a landscape scale;
3
Nearly 10 000 hectares formally
conserved through biodiversity
agreements & contract nature reserves in
the Sandveld with more than 2000
hectares located within the Bergrivier
Municipal area.
6.6 STAKEHOLDER PARTICIPATION AND COMMUNICATION
Forums and committees are establish to get stakeholder buy in, participation and active involvement from
project conceptualising, planning and implementation. This is always a good platform to share common goals
and inform the role players of progress and to create awareness levels.
6.6.1
GCBC STEERING COMMITTEE
The objective of the GCBC Steering Committee is to oversee, advise and facilitate the implementation of the
Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor. This multi-sectoral steering committee (representation from 22
organizations) ensures meaningful participation and active involvement.
The GCBC Steering Committee accepts that several other stakeholders are involved in the management of or
have interest in the extended area and recognize the different mandates of its members. It act in support of and
endeavour not to undermine these mandates. The Steering Committee is currently establishing working
groups to deal with specific topics and issues. This will improve coordination between different role-players
and institutions during the planning, budgeting and implementation phases of projects and programmes.
Implication for the BRM
The BRM should be an active member of all of these Committees and Coalitions as they all
contribute directly to the conservation and management of biodiversity within the BRM.
6.6.2 SANDVELD INFO FORUM
The forum was established with the goal to consolidate and encourage partnerships between Governmental
departments, authorities, conservation agencies, NGO's, agricultural industries, research and landowners
(Ranger et al 2006).
Successes of this initiative:
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The Sandveld Action Plan was drafted in 2006, on request by the MEC of the Department of Environmental
Affairs and Development Planning and make recommendations to stakeholders on how to improve
governance and natural resource management in the Sandveld. Although some of the recommendations
were implemented, other are not sufficiently dealt with.
In the initial stages of this forum biodiversity issues were the key discussion point, but today it has created a
culture of sustainable natural resource utilization, management and protection of the Sandveld.
6.6.3
GROOT WINTERHOEK FRESHWATER STEWARDSHIP STEERING COMMITTEE
This committee give guidance and inputs for the implementation of the Groot Winterhoek Freshwater
Stewardship Core Corridor and consists of WWF-TMF (funders), Citrusdal Water Users Association,
Department of Water Affairs, members of the Groot Winterhoek Conservancy, Landcare, CapeNature and
the landowners.
6.6.4
GROOT WINTERHOEK PROTECTED AREA ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Groot Winterhoek Protected Areas Advisory
Committee (PAAC) is intended to establish partnerships
between the communities that live adjacent to protected
areas and CapeNature's management staff. As envisaged
in section 2(e) and (f) of the National Environmental
Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of
2003), the PAAC will play a crucial role in facilitating a
participatory form of monitoring and management
planning that reflects the needs and concerns of the
communities.
CapeNature has already established the Groot
Winterhoek Protective Area Advisory Committee and the BRM must participate in order to establish
links with CapeNature. This will strengthen local Community Based Natural Resource Management
(CBNRM) and Local Economic Development (LED) initiatives.
6.6.5
VERLORENVLEI COALITION
The recently withdrawn application for mining rights and newly submitted application for prospecting
rights in the Moutonshoek Valley for tungsten ore are a huge concern and threat to not only Moutonshoek
but also to the people who live in the district, their way of life, food security, provision of water, air quality
and the potential for massive environmental degradation throughout the Verloren Valley from Piketberg to
the Atlantic Ocean.
To date 1400 individual members and 46 organisations have registered with the Verlorenvlei Coalition.
6.6.6
BERG RIVER ESTUARY MANAGEMENT FORUM
This Committee was formed between the DWA, DEA&DP, West Coast District Municipality, BRM,
Bergrivier Conservancy, Marine and Coastal Management, CapeNature and Civil Society. The committee
meets to discuss management issues and concerns related to the Bergrivier Estuary. The management
committee is in the process of determining the most appropriate institutional home for the management of
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the Berg River Estuary and to provide a forum for stakeholders to
report back on management activities.
6.6.7
VERLORENVLEI
FORUM
ESTUARY
MANAGEMENT
This forum is responsible for the implementation of the
Verlorenvlei Estuary Management Plan (CSIR 2010) and to link
the plan with other initiatives such as the Integrated
Development Plan
(IDP).
The forum
will appoint a
chairperson and technical working groups that will be responsible for
implementation. Technical working groups will consist of teams
dealing with agriculture, enforcement, conservation, water quantity
and quality, enterprise and entrepreneurial and empowerment. The
BRM should engage with this forum.
6.7 LAW ENFORCEMENT
TABLE 11: RESPONSIBILITIES OF VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS & INSTITUTIONS
Type of activities
Responsible Department
Developments (agricultural, resorts, roads and Department of Environmental Affairs and
other)
Development Planning
Overgrazing,
erosion,
alien
subdivision of agriculture land
plants,
National Department of Agriculture
Harvesting of protected plants, sell and buy
protected plants, transport of game and
plants, hunting, animals in captivity, CapeNature
relocation of game, damage causing wildlife,
indigenous fish
4
80
Water related issues
Department of Water Affairs
Activities related to the use of seashore and
estuaries resources
Marine and Coastal Management
Rock art, changing the structure of buildings
older than 50 years, paleontological assets
South Africa Heritage Resource Agency
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6.8 MONITORING
BERGRIVIER BASELINE MONITORING PROGRAMME
(BRBMP)
The overall objectives of the BRBMP are to:
3
describe the natural and present state, including the
natural variability, of those chemical, physical and
biological characteristics of the river;
3
describe its hydraulically linked systems (i.e. estuary,
floodplains and groundwater) that are most likely to be
affected by changes imposed after the construction of
the Bergriver Dam.
6.9 RESEARCH
The final BRBMP report consists of five volumes. Volume 1
provides an introduction to the Bergrivier catchment and the
groundwater environment, and an analysis of the natural and
present-day flow regime. Volume 2 focuses on the riverine
environment, Volume 3 on the Bergrivier estuary and
floodplain and Volume 4 on social and cultural dependence on
the Bergrivier and estuary. Volume 5 provides a synthesis of
findings and recommendations for ongoing monitoring (Clark
& Ractcliffe 2007).
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COMMUNICATION
7. COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION AND PUBLIC AWARENESS
The BRM has a communications policy that aims to adhere to the key constitutional tenets of transparency
and public participation in the administration of this local authority. The communications policy must
address the key challenge of communicating with stakeholders in a manner that allows free access to
information that is presented in a way that is clearly understandable and in the language of choice.
Fundamentally communication needs to be in the language that is understood by the target audience.
Two target audiences are addressed in the policy and include:
3
3
The internal audience within the BRM the Executive Mayor, Mayoral Committee, Council Members,
Senior and middle management and the staff;
The external audience of the BRM
Political Parties, Business Sector, NGO's, Religious
denominations, media, civil society, other municipalities and government departments.
The policy provides for effective communication between the Speaker who chairs the Council and the
Executive Mayor and the Mayoral Committee with the Municipal Manager. In turn these two structures,
Council & Mayoral Committee, within the municipality are the links and the eyes and ears of the
municipality with the community at large. They are the channel through which information can be
communicated to civil society and from which the needs, concerns and perceptions of the constituents can
be heard within the municipal structure. The BRM has formalised the manner in which a motion is tabled
with either the Council or the Mayoral Committee and handled in accordance with the various clauses and
order rules of the BRM. The same holds true for Council members who request access to reports, enquiries
and access to information.
The municipal manager is legally responsible for communication between the municipality and political
parties and office bearers. The manager’s office is the critical and only recognised link in this
communications channel. All communication, both internal and external, speaking on behalf of the
municipality must be undersigned by the municipal manager.
There are a number of internal communication channels that have been created through which
communication can funneled. These include staff meetings, management meetings, staff and management
meetings, departmental meetings, committees, workshops and capacity building sessions, through a
quarterly bulletin released by the municipality and via postings on the notice boards.
Communications tools used by the BRM include the circulation of letters, e-mail, fax, telephone and the
internet. Controls on communication are in place through formalised mechanism to discipline
transgressions and allow aggrieved staff to raise objections.
External communication occurs through the release of a municipal newsletter each quarter, the annual
report of the BRM, the updating of the website, the supply of corporate materials through the office of the
Strategic Manager, advertising and marketing through administrative services of the various departments
and community meetings.
In general all meetings convened by the municipality are open to the public other than in cases where the
meetings have relevant grounds to be convened behind closed doors. The public however has the legal
right to interact and influence the decision making process of the municipality through either written or oral
representations in meetings or through the channels mentioned above. They also have the legal right to
insist on a response or to gain access to information in the possession of the municipality.
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Public participation is ensured through the Integrated Development Programme (IDP) which is prepared in
September. A process plan for the IDP is prepared on approval of the IDP by the Council. Thereafter a
budget is prepared and approved by Council.
The communications strategy aims to ensure both horizontal and vertical communication within the
structures of the municipality is achieved to provide for a healthy relationship with the public both internally
and externally.
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REFERENCES
Anchor Environmental, 2008. Berg River Estuary Situation Assessment. CAPE Estuaries Management Programme.
Archer, E.R.M., Conrad, J., Munch, Z., Opperman, D., Tadross, M.A., & Venter, J., 2009. Climate change and
commercial agribusiness in the semi-arid northern Sandveld, South Africa. Journal of Integrative Environmental
Sciences 6(2): 139 155
Bergrivier Municipality, 2008, Spatial Development Framework.
Bergrivier Municipality, 2010, Integrated Development Plan : A Strategic Review.
Clarke, B. and Ractclifee, G. 2007. Berg River Baseline Monitoring Programme. Final Report, Volume 5 Synthesis.
DWAF Report No. P WMA 19/G10/00/2107. Anchor Freshwater Consulting Group.
Coetzee, K. 2007. Guidelines for Wildlife Management for the Sandveld and Cederberg Core Corridor Areas.
Conservation Management Services.
Cowling, R.M, and Richardson, DM, 1995. Fynbos South Africa unique Floral Kingdom. Fernwood Press,
Vlaeberg.Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning 2007. Draft Guideline on Biodiversity
Offsets.
Helme, N., 2007. Botanical Report: Finescale Mapping in the Sandveld. Nick Helme Botanical Surveys.
IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: Synthesis Report. Contribution of Working Groups I, II and III to the Fourth
Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Core Writing Team, Pachauri, R.K and
Reisinger, A. (eds.)]. IPCC, Geneva, Switzerland, 104 pp
Job, N., Snaddon, K., Day, L., Nel, J., Smith-Adoa, L. and Kotze, I., 2008. The Freshwater Consulting Group and
CSIR. C.A.P.E. fine-scale biodiversity planning project: Aquatic Ecosystems of the Sandveld Saldanha Planning
Domain.
Job, N., 2009. Wetland Assessment & Catchment Action Plan Bokkeveld Plateau.
Knight, F.H., Conrad, J. and Helme, N. 2006. Biodiversity Best Practices for Potato Production in the Sandveld.
Unpublished free-access resource from Potatoes South Africa.
Maree, K.S. and Vromans, D.C., 2010. The Biodiversity Sector Plan for the Saldanha Bay, Bergrivier, Cederberg
and Matzikama Municipalities: Supporting land-use planning and decision-making in Critical Biodiversity Areas
and Ecological Support Areas. Produced by CapeNature as part of the C.A.P.E. Fine-scale Biodiversity Planning
Project. Kirstenbosch.
Mucina, L. and Rutherford, M.C., 2006. The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelizia 19. South
African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
Ranger, K.S., Venter, J. and Burger, J. 2006, Sandveld Action Plan An Army of Champions.
Republic of South Africa. 1996. Constitution of the Republic of South Africa No.108 of 1996. Statutes of the
Republic of South Africa Constitutional Law.
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Sukhdev, P. 2008. The economics of ecosystems and biodiversity. European Communities. Welzel+Hardt,
Wesseling, Germany.
Turpie J., Heydenrych, B. J. and Lamberth, S. J. 2003. Economic value of terrestrial and marine biodiversity in
the Cape Floristic Region: implications for defining effective and socially optimal conservation strategies.
Biological Conservation 112:233-273.
Turpie, J and Clark, B. 2007. Development of a conservation plan for temperate South African estuaries on the
basis of biodiversity importance, ecosystem health and economic costs and benefits. C.A.P.E. Regional
Estuarine Management Programme. Final Report; August 2007.
West Coast District Council, 1990. Sub-Regional Structure Plan for the Coastal Area Veldrif to
Bokpunt.
West Coast District Council, 1992. Sub-Regional Structure Plan for the Coastal Area
Dwarskersbos to Olifants River.
West Coast Regional Services Council, 1996. Verlorenvlei Local Structure Plan.
West Coast District Council, 1999, Lower Berg River Sub-regional Structure Plan.
West Coast District Municipality, 2002. Piket-Bo-Berg Ontwikkelingsplan.
West Coast District Municipality, 2002. Porterville Berggebied Ontwikkelingsplan.
West Coast District Municipality, 2006. Integrated Environmental Programme of the West Coast District
Municipality.
www.iclei.org/lab
www.teebweb.org
Wikipedia.http://www.wikipedia.org
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Agency for Cultural Resource Management - Jonathan Kaplan
Anchor Freshwater Consulting Group Barry Clarke
Anchor Freshwater Consulting Group Geordie Ractcliffe
Bakkrans Nature Reserve, Red Cederberg Johan van der Westhuizen
BRM Chantel Welman
BRM Christa Liebenberg
BRM Vlooi Joubert
BRM Werner Wagner
CapeNature Jenifer Gouza
CapeNature Johan Burger
CapeNature Sunet Basson
CapeNature Sheila Henning
CapeNature - Jaco van Deventer
CapeNature Lee Saul
CapeNature Dean Impson
CapeNature Pierre De Villiers
CapeNature Kerry Maree
Cape Leopard Trust - Quinton Martins
CSIR Lara van Niekerk
Dr D R Schreuder pers com 2010
ICLEI LAB Shela Patrickson
ICLEI LAB Andre Mader
Freshwater Consultant Nancy Job
Greater Cederberg FPA Charl Du Plessis
GEOSS Julian Conrad
Natura Libra Environmental Consultants Gerhard Pretorius
Potatoes South Africa Terence Brown & Hanlie Rabie
Ranger Consulting Sean Ranger
Verlorenvlei Coalition Dr Bennie van der Merwe
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Imprint
LAB Biodiversity Report: Bergrivier Municipality
Publisher
Bergrivier Municipality
Editors
Sean Ranger & Charl du Plessis
Authors
Sean Ranger
Charl du Plessis
Photos
Charl du Plessis
Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor
Nancy Job
Nick Helme
Sean Ranger
Layout and print
Niki Wessels
Tel: 012 644 1063
E-mail: mynah@mweb.co.za
Copyright
© Bergrivier Municipality, 2010
All rights reserved.
No part of this report may be reproduced or copied in any form
or by any means without the written permission of the Bergrivier Municipality.
Printed in South Africa on Recycled Paper
Report availability:
Electronic copies obtainable upon request from:
Local Action for Biodiversity, ICLEI Africa Secretariat
E-mail: lab@iclei.org
Website: www.iclei.org/lab
Hard copies available upon request from: Bergrivier Municipality
Email: bergmun@telkomsa.net
Website: http://www.bergmun.org.za/
Reference: Ranger, K.S. & Du Plessis, C. 2010. Bergrivier Municipality Biodiversity Report
Sean Ranger
Cell: 083 294 8776
E-mail: sean.ranger1@gmail.com
Charl du Plessis
Cell: 079 172 4340
Email: cduplessis1@telkomsa.net
Bergrivier Municipality
PO Box 60
Piketberg
7320
Local Action for Biodiversity
P O Box 16548
Vlaeberg
8018
South Africa
PARTICIPATION
INTEGRATION
GOVERNANCE
ECOLOGY
Tel: 022 913 1126
Fax: : 022 913 1380
E-mail: bergmun@telkomsa.net.