INTEGRATED
RESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN
HARMONY FLATS NATURE RESERVE
March 2011
INTEGRATED RESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Compiled by
Sabelo Lindani
Biodiversity Management Branch
Environmental Resource Management Department
City of Cape Town
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve
March 2011
ISBN NUMBER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART
NUMBER
SECTION AND SUBSECTIONS
PAGE
NUMBER
ii
ii
ii
iii
iv
List of Maps
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Appendices
List of Abbreviations used
Part 1
Description
Part 2
Management
policy
framework
Part 3
Monitoring &
Auditing
Part 4
References
Part 5
Appendices
1. Introduction
1.1. Aim of the Integrated Reserve Management Plan
1.2. Location and Extent
1
2
5
2. Description of landholdings and ownership
2.1. Property Details and Title Deed Information
2.2. Landscape Perspective
2.3. Physical Environment
2.4. Biological Environment
2.5. Socio-Political Context
2.6. Protected Area Expansion
3. Purpose, Vision / Mission, Significance / Value
3.1. Purpose of the Protected Area
3.2. Vision and Mission
3.3. Significance of Property (Biodiversity, Heritage and
Social)
7
7
7
8
11
13
16
16
16
16
18
4. Administrative and Legal
Management Authority
4.1. Legal Framework
4.2. Administrative Framework
19
Framework
for
the
19
25
5. Protected Area Policy Framework & Guiding
Management Principles
5.1. Management Objectives
5.2. SWOT analysis
5.3. Protected Area management policy framework and
Guiding Principles
5.4. Sensitivity Analysis
5.5. Zonation Plan of the Harmony Flats Nature
Nature Reserve
6. Development Plan
7. Costing Plan
26
8. Monitoring & Auditing
46
8.1. Annual Audit Procedure
8.2 Biodiversity Monitoring
9. References
46
46
49
10.
51
Appendices
26
36
37
42
42
44
45
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | i
List of Maps
Page Numbers
Map 1: Nature Reserve Location in the CCT
6
Map2: Nature Reserve Boundary
Map3: Nature Reserve Erven
Map4: Catchments including Rivers and wetlands
Map5: Nature Reserve and Biodiversity Network
Map6: Zonation Map
43
Map7: Vegetation Distribution Map
List of Figures
Page Numbers
Figure 1: Integrated Nature Reserve Management
3
Figure 2: City Development Strategy
4
Figure 3: Long-term Precipitation trends
9
Figure 4: Mean Annual Precipitation
9
List of Tables
Page
Table 1: Legal Framework
19
Table 2: Staffing Complement
25
Table 3: Management Objectives
26
Table 4: SWOT Analysis
36
Table 5: Protected Area Policy and Guiding Management Principles
?
Table 6: Environmental Education Programmes
38
Table 7: Costing Plan
45
Table 8: Monitoring Requirements
47
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | ii
List of Appendices
A. Charts and Tables

Rainfall Table

Zonation Table
B. Legal Agreements

Government Gazette for Nature Reserve Proclamation

Surveyor General (SG) diagrams (Cliff Dorse to arrange)

Office Space Memorandum of Agreement

Lease Agreement

Memorandum of Agreement (transfer of management)

Title deed
C. Species Checklists

Plants

Mammals

Birds

Reptiles
D. Other documents as required :

METT-SA (The HF METT is write protected therefore one should be printed out and
attached on the document)
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | iii
List of Abbreviations used
APO
BMB
Annual Plan of Operations
Biodiversity Management Branch
C.A.P.E
Cape Action for People and the Environment
CARA
Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act
CBO
Community Based Organisations
CCT
City Of Cape Town
CDF
Conservation Development Framework
CFR
Cape Floristic Region
DLA
Department of Land Affairs
EIA
Environmental Impact Assessment
EMS
Environmental Management System
EPWP
Expanded Public Works Programme
HFWG
Harmony Flats Working Group
IS
Invasive Species
IDP
Integrated Development Plan
IMEP
Integrated Metropolitan Environmental Policy
IRMP
Integrated Nature Reserve Management Plan (IRMP)
LBSAP
Local biodiversity Strategic Action Plan
LAF
Lourensford Alluvium Fynbos
MCM
Marine & Coastal Management
MEC
Member of Executive Councils
MOU
Memorandum of Understanding
MPA
Marine Protected Area
MTEF
Medium Term Expenditure Framework
NEMA
National Environmental Management Act
RPC
Nature Reserve Planning Committee
SANBI
South Africa National Biodiversity Institute
WESSA
Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa
WfW
Working for Water
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | iv
PART 1
DESCRIPTION
1. INTRODUCTION
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve was officially opened in 1986 and later proclaimed as a
Provincial Nature Reserve in 1989 mainly for the protection of the endangered geometric
tortoise (Psammobates geometricus). Since the Nature Reserves proclamation the area has
been subjected to mass urban development that resulted in the reduction and transformation
of the indigenous vegetation particularly in the areas surrounding the Nature Reserve. This
reduction is further exacerbated by the irresponsible activities by humans such as frequent
fires, illegal plant harvesting. Sadly in the end the geometric tortoise has disappeared due to
theft and frequent fires.
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve conserves a critically endangered vegetation type known as
Lourensford Alluvium Fynbos (LAF). Less than 1% of this vegetation is currently protected
and more than 94% transformed falls under private land ownership. The national target for
the conservation of this vegetation is 30% and only 5% is available (Rebelo et al. 2006). This
management plan will address all the threats that are continuously experienced in the Nature
Reserve and at the same time discuss the various programmes (from monitoring to
environmental awareness) that have been carefully selected to address these challenges.
The strategic management planning process, which results in the development of an
Integrated Reserve Management Plan, for the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve, begins with
the definition of the Vision followed by the Purpose for the Nature Reserve. This Purpose is
then supported by Desired States for the Nature Reserve. The Nature Reserve Objectives
contribute to realizing the Purpose and Desired States. For each Desired State a number of
Management Objectives are identified. These Management Objectives are then made
operational through the identification of Outputs. Objectives for each Desired State are
prioritized for the five-year time horizon of the plan. Time frames, deliverables, performance
indicators and targets are then allocated for each objective, or a group of linked outputs
contributing to the Desired State.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 1
1.1. Aim of the Integrated Reserve Management Plan
The aim of the Integrated Reserve Management Plan (IRMP) is to ensure that the Harmony
Flats Nature Reserve has clearly defined objectives and activities to direct the protection and
sustainable use of its natural, scenic and heritage resources over a five year time period.
The IRMP thus provides the medium-term operational framework for the prioritized allocation
of resources and capacity in the management, use and development of the Nature Reserve.
The IRMP intends to add value and continuity by clearly stating management objectives,
scheduling action and providing guidelines on the management approach.
The context of the Nature Reserve planning process for the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve
are: (i)
City’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) (Anon 2010);
(ii) City’s IMEP (Anon
20031); (iii) Biodiversity Strategy (Anon 20032) and Local Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan
(LBSAP) (Anon 20091); and (iv) Bioregional context (Cape Action for People and the
Environment (C.A.P.E.).
The major elements of the IRMP are: this document (overall
strategy, vision and context); the detailed subsidiary plans (as required) and an annual plan
of operations (APO). The IRMP for the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is supported by a
State of Biodiversity Report, Operational Guidelines, and Monitoring and Evaluation
framework to ensure ongoing implementation and review of protected area management
activities (Figure 1).
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 2
Integrated Nature Reserve Management
Plan
State of
Biodiversity
Report
Strategic Plan
for Nature
Reserve: vision,
background,
context
Operational
guidelines
Monitoring and
Evaluation
LBSAP
Annual
Subsidiary
plans
Plan of
Operations
Figure 1: The elements of the Nature Reserve management plan
The IRMP for the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve forms part of a tiered series of policies,
legislation and related planning documents at the sectoral, institutional, agency and local
levels (Figure 2).
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 3
Figure 2: Legal and planning framework for the integrated management plan
Where possible, emphasis has been placed on the following:

Assigning responsibility for management interventions;

Scheduling, said management interventions; and

Quantifying management costs.
This approach has the specific intention of creating a mechanism whereby management
intervention can be monitored and audited on an annual basis.
In context, this IRMP is a dynamic document and the detailed subsidiary plans should be
updated on an annual basis or as soon as new information comes to light that may better
inform decisions on responsible land management. The IRMP should be updated every five
years.
The drafting of this Management Plan has been guided by a small interdisciplinary Nature
Reserve Planning Committee (RPC) comprising the Branch Manager, the Regional
Manager, the Area Manager, the Reserve Manager, various specialists and other interested
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 4
and affected persons. Iterative drafts of the IRMP were presented to, and discussed by, the
RPC before broader circulation for inputs from the public.
Pre-engagement workshops were held with community partners during March to May 2010.
This afforded key community partners an opportunity to input at an early stage. The ideas
and outputs from the workshops have been (where practical) incorporated into the IRMP.
1.2. Location and Extent
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is approximately nine ha in size and is situated within the
Helderberg basin (grid reference 34º08’15’’S: 18º51’35’’E) within the CCT. The Nature
Reserve is located near the boundary of Strand and Gordon’s Bay about 2km inland, in the
centre of the following low income residential areas: Cassablanca, Gustrouw and Rusthof
(Figure 3). Harmony Flats Nature Reserve was officially proclaimed on the 21 June 1989 by
the Administrator of the Province of the Cape of Good Hope in terms of section 6(1) of the
Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance, 1974 (Ordinance 19 of 1974) as a
Provincial Nature Reserve on Portion of Erf 5544, Strand. Provincial Gazette no. 4593
published on the 7 July 1989 (Appendix 3).
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 5
Location Map (INSERT LOCATION MAP HERE!)from Adele
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 6
2.
DESCRIPTION OF LANDHOLDINGS AND OWNERSHIP
2.1. Property Details and Title Deed Information
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is a property of the CCT and located on Erf 5544 in the
Strand area. This land was part of a larger Erf 5079 which was expropriated by the Registrar
of Deeds in Cape Town from Casper Frederick Christiane on the 30 September 1965 and
subdivided for the Gustrouw Sports Field and housing. The land was transferred to the
Municipality of Strand, Title Deed number: T2402/ 1965 (Appendix 8). See Surveyor General
Diagram on Appendix 4.
2.2. Landscape Perspective
The Nature Reserve falls within the CFR. The CFR in South Africa is the smallest and richest
of the six floral kingdoms in the world, and it is the only one to be found entirely within one
country. This rich biodiversity is under serious threat for a variety of reasons including
conversion of natural habitat to permanent agriculture, inappropriate fire management, rapid
and insensitive development, overexploitation of water resources, and infestation by alien
species. The region has been identified as one of the worlds "hottest" hotspots of biodiversity
(Myers et al. 2000).
In response to this challenge, a process of extensive consultation involving various
interested parties, including local government and nongovernmental organizations resulted
in the establishment of a strategic plan (C.A.P.E Project Team 2000) referred to as Cape
Action Plan for the Environment which, identified the key threats and root causes of
biodiversity losses that need to be addressed in order to conserve the floral kingdom. This
resulted in a spatial plan identifying areas which need to be conserved and a series of broad
programme activities which need to be done over a 20 year period. Based on the situation
assessment and analysis of threats, three overarching themes that complement and
reinforce one another were developed:

establish an effective Nature Reserve network, enhance off-Nature Reserve
conservation, and support bioregional planning;

strengthen and enhance institutions, policies, laws, co-operative governance, and
community participation; and

develop methods to ensure sustainable yields, promote compliance with laws,
integrate biodiversity concerns into catchment management, and promote sustainable
eco-tourism.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 7
The Cape Action for People and Environment (C.A.P.E.) partnership was formed that works
together to implement the C.A.P.E. vision and plan by strengthening institutions, supporting
conservation efforts, supporting education, developing tourism benefits, and involving people
in conservation.
The CCT was one of the 19 founding signatories of the C.A.P.E.
memorandum of understanding (MOU).
The Harmony Flats Nature Reserve forms an important platform and integral link within the
city’s Biodiversity Network (Anon 20092).
It is this network that ensures parcels of
conservation worthy land are included in a protective network, connected to other parcels of
conservation worthy land.
2.3. Physical Environment
2.3.1. Climate
The climate in this area is Mediterranean and is characterised by warm dry summers with
mild rainy winters. The average daily maximum and minimum temperature on the Nature
Reserve is 22.2°C and 13.2°C based on a 24 year period (1985-2009) with infrequent frost
incidence. The Nature Reserve experiences prevailing and strong summer winds from the
South East direction while the winter wind is dominated by the North and North West. In the
period of 2005-2009 42% of the wind recorded was the South Easterly wind and 20% of this
wind had a strong speed of more than 10.7 meters per second. The winter-rainfall climate
peaks up from May to August with a Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) of 400–768 mm
(mean: 598 mm). Following is the graph that illustrates the rainfall fluctuations since 1985
that also depicts the driest year (1998) in the period.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 8
Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP)
900.0
800.0
700.0
(mm)
600.0
500.0
Annual Rainfall Over 24 Years
400.0
300.0
200.0
100.0
20
09
20
07
20
05
20
03
20
01
19
99
19
97
19
95
19
93
19
91
19
89
19
87
19
85
0.0
Years
Figure 3: Long Term Precipitation Trends (Data from Weather Services, 2010)
These rainfall data could be useful over a period of years for comparative purposes and to
determine long term trends. The following graph illustrate the rainfall patterns over one year
period, once again the data plays a crucial role in the management of the Nature Reserve as
it influences what interventions to take place and by what time of the year. See rainfall table
on Appendix 1.
Figure 4: Graph showing Mean Annual Precipitation from a monthly perspective, for
the Strand area (Van Tonder 2010)
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 9
2.3.2 Geology, geomorphology, soils and land types
The Nature Reserve is characterised of plinthic, duplex, silty soils often with small cobbles
and pebbles embedded. Found over Cape Suite granite and metasediments of the
Tygerberg Formation (Malmesbury Group) with a shale rock at a depth of 0.3 to 1.3m
throughout much of the area.
2.3.1 Hydrology and aquatic systems
As a result of the flat topography and underlying hardpan the water penetration is very slow
and therefore large parts of the area become waterlogged between May and October.
2.3.1 Catchments
The Nature Reserve is characterised as a seasonal wetland and it falls within the Catchment
Area. WHICH CATCHMENT AREA – FROM ADELE!
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 10
2.4
Biological
2.4.1 Vegetation
The Vegetation Scientists have in the past referred to the vegetation in this area as either
renosterveld or fynbos. This is as a result of the Nature Reserve being in a lowland area
where the screes, sands and silt have been deposited in alluvial fans. The species typical of
renosterveld are found on the finer sediments and fynbos on the courser sediments. Thus
referred to as LAF. LAF is endemic to the Cape Town area and is found in the low-lying
plains between Firgrove and Gordon’s Bay, including much of the Strand and Somerset
West area, with the extension to the Lourensford Estate (Rebelo et al. 2006).
On these low-lying plains, low-medium dense shrubland with short graminoid understorey is
supported. Restioid and asteraceous fynbos are dominant; however there is some evidence
that proteoid fynbos might once have been dominant in the area. Some parts of the Nature
Reserve have remnants that are exceptionally rich in geophytes. In the Nature Reserve 215
plant species have been recorded to date with 23 species listed as species of special
conservation concern in the Red Data List (Raimondo et al. 2009). Such species include
Lotononis prostrata, Leucadendron lanigerum, Elegia verreauxii, Ixia versicolor. The latter
has its only viable population occurring in this Nature Reserve (see Appendix 9 for species
list).
The conservation status of LAF is Critically Endangered with more than 94% of it
transformed inter alia by urban development, roads and farming.
LAF is the most
transformed endemic vegetation type within the CCT and one of the most transformed types
in South Africa. The national target for its conservation is 30% and only 5% is available with
less than 1% currently conserved in Harmony Flats Nature Reserve. The re-mapping of the
area is highly necessary since intensive development has taken place in the area since the
last analysis (National Vegetation Map for the Fynbos Biome, 2006). The integrity of LAF is
further and largely threatened by frequent fires that have partially changed vegetation
structure from dense shrubland to mostly grassy communities. (Refer to Appendix 14 for the
distribution of LAF in the area).
2.4.2 Mammals
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve only has a limited number of small mammals as the Nature
Reserve itself could not support viable populations of any large mammals due to the fact that
it is only nine hectares in size. A small mammal survey is conducted twice a year and so far
two rodent species have been recorded, namely, Mus minutoides (Pygmy Mouse) and
Rhabdomys pumilio (Striped Field Mouse). Due to the size of the Nature Reserve and
available habitat the Nature Reserve management has no intentions of introducing any
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 11
bigger mammals in the future but to manage and monitor the ones that are already on site
(Appendix 10).
2.4.3. Birds
The Nature Reserve does not have a comprehensive bird list but over a period of three years
more than 13 bird species have been recorded, this list includes species such Elanus
caeruleus (Black Shouldered Kite), Vanellus coronatus (Crowned Lapwing), Scopus
umbretta (Hamerkop). Of the significance are the pairs of Mirafra apiata (Cape Clapper Lark)
which still occur on site (Appendix 6).
2.4.4 Amphibians
To date only one frog species has been recorded on site and this is the Strongylopus grayi
(Clicking Stream Frog).
2.4.5 Reptiles
The reptiles recorded to date include Homopus areolatus (Parrot Beaked Tortoise), Chersina
angulata (Angulate Tortoise), the latter does not originally occur on site however was
released by person(s) unknown, Naja nivea (Cape Cobra) and the Agama hispida (Southern
Spiny Agama) which was last recorded within CCT in 1985 and therefore thought to be
locally extinct. Additionally Harmony Flats Nature Reserve was once a home to a Critically
Endangered Geometric Tortoise which was later translocated to Tygerberg Zoo as the
Nature Reserve experienced frequent fires that threatened the survival of these tortoises.
See Appendix 12 for a list of the reptile species recorded to date.
2.4.6 Invertebrates
The Nature Reserve has no data with regards to the invertebrates however a baseline
survey is envisaged in the near future.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 12
2.5
Socio-Political Context
2.5.1 History
The significance of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve was first realised in the mid 1970’s when
a relic population of Geometric Tortoise was found in the Rusthof area between Strand and
Gordon’s Bay. It was during this time that the Strand Municipality was approached by the
then Department of Nature and Environmental Conservation (now Cape Nature) and
representation was made to have an area set aside for conservation purposes. As a result of
this initiative nine hectares was subsequently earmarked for the conservation of the
threatened habitat (LAF), in which the above endangered geometric tortoise survived. In
addition the Jarman (1986) report revealed that out of the 55 sites that were studied,
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve and the Dassenberg Hills had the highest score of
threatened flora of which about 100ha was still intact.
Nonetheless as a result of the rapid urban sprawl and desperate need for housing the area
adjoining the Nature Reserve was bulldozed in October 1985 and the building of residential
sites commenced. During this time the Department decided to collect the tortoises and keep
them in a safe place until the Nature Reserve has been fenced off and proclaimed. As a
result of this the department with help from the members of the Hottentots Holland Centre of
the Wildlife Society collected and removed 292 Homopus aereolatus (Padlopers) and 52
Geometric Tortoises. The Geometric Tortoises were temporarily housed by Admiral Dirk
Nortier at Gordon’s Bay and the padlopers by Mr. Steve Mitchell a nature conservation
official employed by Somchem in Somerset West.
During this time there were ongoing discussions between the Strand Municipality and the
Provincial Department of Nature Conservation (now Cape Nature) to conserve the area
which resulted to an agreement on conditions under which a small Nature Reserve would be
set up. The Nature Reserve was then leased to Cape Nature for a period of nine years and
eleven months (from 01 October 1986) at a very nominal rate of R1 per annum (Appendix 3).
In the meanwhile the then editor of African Wildlife (John Comrie-Craig) and the Wildlife
Society of Southern Africa (now WESSA) took an initiative together with the SA Nature
Foundation to raise funds for the erection of security fence around the Nature Reserve. The
Geometric Tortoise appeal fund was established whereby the public was called upon to
make contributions, the two organisations (SA Nature Foundation and Wildlife Society of SA)
contributed R5 000 each, and eventually a total amount of R37, 000 was received.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 13
The Nature Reserve was officially opened on 24 October 1986 and at that ceremony the
then Mayor of Strand (Mr Hattingh) handed over to WESSA (Hottentots Holland Region) the
sum of R2, 000.00. At this opening 42 Geometric Tortoises and 100 padlopers all marked
were released back into the Nature Reserve. WESSA undertook to fence the property and it
is believed that roughly R80, 000.00 was raised and the fence and signage was erected. The
Nature Reserve is officially called the “Harmony Flats Nature Reserve” the name of the farm
prior to its sale and subdivisions for housing development being put into place.
In the years to follow it became a major challenge for the provincial authority to manage the
Nature Reserve adequately due to financial constraints and lack of dedicated staff to the
Reserve, irresponsible human activities, theft of the new fence and signage, and alien
vegetation was cleared irregularly, the site was regularly set alight by persons unknown
leaving a high number of both types of tortoises dead. These challenges resulted to Cape
Nature not renewing the lease to manage the Nature Reserve when it lapsed on the 31
August 1996 (see memorandum on Appendix 7). The land therefore reverted back to the
management of the local authority (Helderberg Municipality, now CCT) which included the
local areas of Somerset West, Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Lwandle and Nomzamo. The Nature
Reserve was then placed under the management of City Parks and Nature Conservation unit
based at Somerset West.
In 2005 the management was taken over by the Biodiversity Management Branch. By the
time the local authority took over the management of the Nature Reserve most of the once
intact lowland vegetation adjoining it had been extensively transformed. A study undertaken
by Maze and Rebelo (1999) identified a 40 hectares area (Weltevreden) just northwest of
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve and south of Lwandle as one of the 35 Core Flora
Conservation Areas on the Cape Flats.
This site is currently referred to as Morkel’s
Cottages (name of residential area adjacent to the land) and is facing housing development.
However negotiations between the BMB and the Housing Department (CCT) to set aside
some land for conservation are currently taking place.
In 2002 Harmony Flats Nature Reserve was identified as one of the four pilot sites by SANBI
through the Cape Flats Nature Project which aimed at building a good relationship between
nature and surrounding communities within the city. The project secured R50, 000.00 worth
of funds received via J&B Whiskey allocated for a period of two years. The funding was
mainly for the employment of a nature conservation student and was handed over to the
Friends of The Helderberg Nature Reserve to administer.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 14
A third year Nature Conservation student from Cape Technikon was employed during 2003
as a Student/Site Manager and carried out some intensive work that involved establishing an
enthusiastic local group called Harmony Flats Working Group (HFWG) with the aim to assist
in the management of the Nature Reserve. Cape Flats Nature lobbied for a container after a
request was made by the HFWG, a 12 meter long container was purchased by the CCT that
was going to be used by the group.
The approach to employ students became challenging as there was no continuity due to the
fact that the students were only employed for one year to complete the in-service training. As
a result of this the relationship between the Nature Reserve and the HFWG suffered
tremendously due to a lack of continuity. During this time Cape Flats Nature was fund raising
to have a dedicated and qualified Site Manager employed to manage the Nature Reserve.
Finally in October 2007 a full time Nature Conservator was employed on contract with the
aim to apply sound management to the Nature Reserve at the same time engaging the local
communities on the management and activities within the Nature Reserve. In July 2009 as
part of the City realignment process the Nature Reserve was amalgamated under the
management of Steenbras Nature Reserve so that it can have access to work resources that
it still lacks such as staff and equipment. The City finally made the Site Manager position
permanent in November 2009 and the title was changed to Reserve Manager for operational
alignment reasons.
2.5.2 Socio-economic context
The Nature Reserve is surrounded by communities of different economic status, the
communities on the close proximity of the Nature Reserve are Cassablanca, Sercor Park,
Southfork, Gustrouw which are low income areas and other border is Gordon’s Bay which
ranges from middle to high income communities. The Cassablanca and Sercor Park
communities are represented by two CBO groups HFWG and TAG Changers. The HFWG
was established in 2003 with the aim to assist voluntarily in the management activities of the
Nature Reserve. This group was originally made up of 15 members of mostly pensioners
from the area, and their activities included removal of invasive species, environmental
education and held public meetings when job opportunities existed. The membership of the
group (HFWG) has now decreased tremendously over the years and it now stands at five
members. Some of the members of the group have either passed on, found work and others
have retired. The TAG Changers is a youth organisation who’s purpose is to interact and
entertain younger people in the Strand area. The partnership that the Nature Reserve has
with TAG Changers gives an opportunity to work with younger people during environmental
awareness programmes. On the outskirts (near the N2) a township dominated by low income
black communities known as Lwandle exists. There is not formal partnership between the
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 15
Nature Reserve and these communities except with a few schools that are approached
during environmental education interventions.
The management of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve also aims to explore the possible
tourism opportunities for the Nature Reserve that will at the same time bring economic
benefits to the local communities by training local guides. The Nature Reserve has in the
past created some temporary employment for more than 30 local residents through Poverty
Relief projects; these include a Working for Wetlands project, a fence erection project among
others.
Additionally the Nature Reserve has received some funding from the National
Department of Tourism and CCT to construct a Tourism Facility, this facility will have a
potting shed developed for the nursery. The initial employment potential of the project was
26 people and currently only 11 people have been employed.
2.6
Protected Area Expansion
Cape Nature in conjunction with the BMB is in the process of negotiation with the private
land owners to have a portion of their land set aside for conservation purposes and
incorporated to the Nature Reserve through a Stewardship Programme. All these properties
consist of LAF and are situated in the Gordon’s Bay area. Once this process has been
finalised the size of the corridor will expand from 9ha to 19.58 hectares in total. The sites
areas include the following erven: 6331, 6330, 6329, 6334, 6341, 6342, 6343 and 32634.
Refer to Appendix 15.
3.
PURPOSE, VISION / MISSION, SIGNIFICANCE / VALUE
3.1
Purpose of the Protected Area
The primary purpose of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is to conserve the ecological
processes associated with the LAF.
3.2
Vision and Mission
3.2.1 Vision
Integrated Development Plan Vision
The vision of the CCT remains as follows:

To be a prosperous City that creates an enabling environment for shared growth and
economic development

To achieve effective and equitable service delivery

To serve the citizens of Cape Town as a well-governed and effectively run
administration.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 16
To achieve this vision, the City recognises that it must:

actively contribute to the development of its environmental, human and social capital;

offer high-quality services to all who live in, do business in, or visit the city as tourists;
and

be known for its efficient, effective and caring government.
C.A.P.E. Vision
We, the people of South Africa, are proud to be the custodians of our unique Cape Floral
Kingdom, and share its full ecological, social and economic benefits now and in the future.
Environmental Resource Management Department Vision
To ensure that sustainable and equitable development is combined with sound
environmental practice for a healthy local environment, which sustains people and nature,
provides protection for our unique resources and results in an enhanced quality of life for all.
Biodiversity Management Branch Vision
To be a City that leads by example in the protection and enhancement of biodiversity. A City
within which biodiversity plays an important role, where the right of present and future
generations to healthy, complete and vibrant biodiversity is entrenched, and to be a City that
actively protects its biological wealth and prioritises long term responsibility over short-term
gains.
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve Vision
To protect the long term ecological integrity of the LAF
at the same time building
environmental harmony among various cultures that are found outside the borders of
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve.
3.2.2 Mission
Biodiversity Management Branch

Manage biodiversity proactively and effectively

To ensure an integrated approach to biodiversity between CCT line functions &
departments and actively pursue external partnerships

To adopt a long-term approach with regards to biodiversity

To ensure sustainability of our rich biodiversity

To adopt a holistic and multifaceted approach to biodiversity
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 17

To continually measure and monitor the CCT’s performance in the protection and
enhancement of biodiversity

To continually measure and monitor the state of biodiversity in Cape Town
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve

To proactively manage the Nature Reserve ecosystem as expected by the Biodiversity
Management Branch.

To ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of all ecological processes.

To integrate the neighbouring communities through environmental awareness
programmes.
3.3
Significance of Property (Biodiversity, Heritage and Social)

Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is home to LAF which is Critically Endangered. The
Nature Reserve has recorded more than 215 plant species of which more than 20 of
them are listed as species of conservation concern. One of the plant species is Ixia
versicolor and the Nature Reserve is known to have the last viable population of this
Critically Endangered plant.

The Nature Reserve has recorded a number of avifauna and, reptile species that
included a Southern Spiny Agama (Agama hispida) which was considered extinct
within the City boundaries.

Harmony Flats Nature Reserve has a very good partnership with some community
groups from the Cassablanca Area.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 18
PART 2
MANAGEMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK
4.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE MANAGEMENT
4.1
Legal Framework
AUTHORITY
Table 1: Legal Framework
The following is a list of Legislation applicable to the management of the CCT’s Biodiversity Management branch, with particular reference to the
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve. Repealed legislation has been included as greyed out text for information purposes only.
Legislation:
Relevance:
Amendment:
Comment:
Act, Ordinance, By-law
Description
Latest Amendment Date
Other Notes
Lists South African citizen’s environmental rights.
N/A
One of the most important environmental laws relating to most aspects
 Amendment Act 56 of 2002
of the environment including EIA’s the roles of DWE, environmental
 Amended by GN. 26018 Vol.
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa
Act; No 108 of 1996
Chapter 2: Bill of rights assigns citizens
with particular rights.
ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION
National Legislation
National Environmental Management Act, No
107 of 1998
464 –of 2004-02-13
information and legal standing etc.
The objectives of the Act are to provide for:

the
management
biodiversity
within
and
the
Provides for cooperative environmental
governance
The development of the IRMP will assist in
conservation
of
South
Africa’s
framework
of
the
National
ensuring that the NEM:BA objectives are
achieved in the Nature Reserve.
Environmental Management Act, 1998

National
Environmental
Biodiversity Act No 10 of 2004
the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant
national protection
Management:

the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources

the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from bio-
N/A
prospecting involving indigenous biological resources

the establishment and functions of a South African National
Biodiversity Institute
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 19
In essence, the Act was put in place to safeguard the important
biodiversity attributes in the country, whilst allowing people to benefit
equally from the natural resources. In order to achieve these goals, the
Act made provision for the South African National Biodiversity Institute
(SANBI), which has been designated certain functions and has been
afforded powers and duties in respect of this Act.


National
Environmental
Management:
Protected Areas Act No 57 of 2003

To provide for the protection and conservation of ecologically
Regulations Notice 1029 of 2009 list
viable areas representative of South Africa’s biological
specific
diversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes;
proclaimed by the MEC (draft August
regulations
for
reserves
2009)
for the establishment of a national register of all national,
provincial and local protected areas;
 Amendment Act 62 of 2008
for the management of those areas in accordance with
 Amendment Act 15 of 2009
national norms and standards;

for inter-governmental cooperation and public consultation in
matters concerning protected areas;

Conservation of Agricultural Resource Act,
1983 (ACT 43 OF 1983)
and for matters in connection therewith.
CARA Regulations contain a list of alien invasive vegetation
 Amended by GN R 2687 of
categorized according to there legal status. Act regulates sale position
1985-12-06 and GN R 280 of
and use of listed species
2001-03-30
National Veld and Forest Fire Act; No 101 of
Relates to veld fire prevention, fire protection associations, fire danger
1998
indexing, enforcement of fire legislation and the fighting of fires
The Environment Conservation Act is the other law that relates
specifically to the environment. Although most of this Act has been
replaced by NEMA there are still some important sections that remain
in operation. These sections relate to:
Environment Conservation Act 73 of 1989
developed.
Conservation
amendment Act 98 of 1991
 Environment
Conservation
amendment Act 79 of 1992

protected natural environments

littering
Second amendment Act 115 of

special Nature Reserves
1992

waste management

limited development areas

regulations on noise, vibration and shock

EIA
included under NEM:BA in future
A detailed Fire Management Plan will be
N/A
 Environment
Alien invasive plant legislation to be
 Environment
 Environment
Conservation
Conservation
amendment Act 94 of 1993
 Environment
Conservation
Second amendment Act 52 of
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 20
1994
 Proclamation R27 of 1995
 Proclamation R43 of 1996
 National Environment Act 107
of 1998
National Environmental Management:
Air
Quality Act 39 of 2004
To provide for enhancing the quality of ambient air for the sake of
Promulgated to give effect to section 24(b)
securing an environment which is not harmful to the health and well-
of the Constitution.
being of the people
South African Air Quality Information
System (SAAQIS) is a web-based system
which provides information on the quality
of ambient air across the country
Animal Protection Act, 71 of 1962
Game Theft Act 105 of 1991
To consolidate and amend the laws relating to the prevention of cruelty
Animal Matters Amendment Act 42
to animals
of 1993
Regulates the ownership and protection of game
Faunal Management Plan to be developed
according to the act.
National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999
Provides for the protection of heritage resources
N/A
World Heritage Conservation Act 49 of 1999
Incorporates the World Heritage Convention into South African law
N/A
Problem Animal Control Ordinance 26 of
Regulates problem animals
Administered under the Western Cape
1957
Nature Conservation Board Act 15 of 1998
Whole repealed 01 April 2010 in
Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act 45 of
favour
1965
Environmental Management: Air
of
the
National
Quality Act 39 of 2004
Provincial Legislation
Although it might not have a direct
application in the management of Nature
Land Use Planning Ordinance, No 15 of 1985
The purpose of the ordinance is to regulate land use and to provide for
incidental matters related to land use.
 Assented to 22 November 1985
Reserves, it does affect the surrounding
 Western
Use
properties and could possibly be used to
1985,
control activities / developments around
Planning
Cape
Land
Ordinance,
Amendment Act, 2004
the Nature Reserves to minimize negative
effects on the Nature Reserves – for
example in applying zoning restrictions.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 21
Administered under the Western Cape
Cape
Nature
and
Environmental
Conservation Ordinance, no 19 of 1974
The purpose of this ordinance is to regulate wild animals and plants
Publication
and the establishment of Nature Reserves.
1975
date
1
September
Nature Conservation Board Act 15 of 1998
Western Cape Nature Conservation Board
Biodiversity Agreements are signed under
Act 15 of 1998
this act
Municipal Legislation
Integrated Metropolitan Environmental Policy
Envisages a set of City-wide aligned strategies dealing with all aspects
(IMEP) 2001
of the environment.
To be a City that leads by example in the protection and enhancement
The Biodiversity Strategy 2003
CCT
By-Law
Relating
To
of biodiversity.
Stormwater
Management , LA 31420
To provide for the regulation of stormwater management in the area of
the CCT, and to regulate activities which may have a detrimental effect
Influences the Biodiversity Strategy 2003
 Draft amendment for 2009-
Influenced the development of IRMP
2019
 Publication date 23 September
Communication Strategy and Action Plan
will take effect into addressing the issues
2005
on the development, operation or maintenance of the stormwater
with the relevant department.
system
The purpose of this by-law is:
CCT: Air Pollution Control By-Law; LA 12649
to give effect to the right contained in section 24 of the Constitution of
the Republic of South Africa Act, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996) by controlling
 Publication date 4 February
2003
air pollution within the area of the Council’s jurisdiction; to ensure that
air pollution is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, is
minimized and remedied.
The purpose and scope of the By-law is:
By-Law Relating to Community Fire Safety;
to promote the achievement of a fire-safe environment for the benefit
Province of the Western Cape; LA 11257
of all persons within the area of jurisdiction of the Municipality; to
 Publication
date28
February
A fire Management Plan to be designed.
2002
provide for procedures, methods and practices to regulate fire safety
within the area of jurisdiction of the Municipality.
The purpose of this By-law is:
CCT Draft Animal By-Law, 2009
To formulate a new single by-law including 10 different municipal dog
by-laws and the Animal Protection Act of 1962.
 Draft, 2009
This includes chapters on dogs, cats, poultry and working equines.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 22
HUMAN RESOURCES/ADMINISTRATION LEGISLATION
National Legislation
To provide for the health and safety of persons at work and for the
health and safety of persons in connection with the use of plant and
machinery; the protection of persons other than persons at work
Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993
against hazards to health and safety arising out of or in connection
with the activities of persons at work; to establish an advisory council
Occupational Health and Safety
The Safety and Security Plan will be
Amendment Act , No 181 of 1993
developed as required.
for occupational health and safety; and to provide for matters
connected therewith.
Basic Conditions of Employment Act 3 of
Provides for control measures pertaining to employment
Standard Operational Procedures Manual
 Amendment Act 11 of 2002
1997
The labour relations act aims to promote economic development,
social justice, labour peace and democracy in the work place.
 Amendment Labour Relations
Act , 42 of 1996
 Amendment Afrikaans Labour
Relations Act 1998
 Amendment Labour Relations
Labour Relations Amendment Act, 66 of 1995
Act , 127 of 1998
 Amendment Labour Relations
Act 2000
 Amendment Act 12 of 2002
Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32
Establishes core principles, process and mechanisms relating to local
of 2000
government
Promotion of Equality/Prevention of Unfair
Provides for the prevention of discrimination and other related matters
Discrimination Act 4 of 2000
Criminals Procedures Act
Fire Arm Act
Civil Aviation Act 13 of 2009
Fencing Act 31 of 1963
Hazardous Substances Act 15 of 1973
Land Survey Act 8 of 1997
Regulates all matters relating to fencing
Controls substances which may cause injury or ill health to, or death
of, human beings by reason of their toxic nature
Regulates land surveying, beacons and other related matters
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 23
Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of
Promotes access to information
2000
Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of
Provides for the promotion of administrative justice
2000
Regional Services Council Act 109 of 1985
Regulates and controls land, land usage and other related matters
Skills Development Act 97 of 1998
Promotes the development of skills
State Land Disposal Act 48 of 1961
Regulates the disposal of state owned land
Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act 70 of
Regulates the subdivision of agricultural land
 Amendment Act 53 of 2002
1970
Tourism Act 72 of 1993
Provides for the promotion of tourism and regulates the tourism
A Tourism Strategy is envisaged.
industry
Public Resort Ordinance 20 of 1971
Regulates nuisance and pollution control
Municipal Ordinance 20 of 1974
Regulates pollution and waste management
South African National Road Agency Limited
(SANRAL) and National Road Act 7 of 1998
Aviation Act 74 of 1962
Provides for the control, regulation and encouragement of aviation
activities in the Republic of South Africa
 Repealed in favour of the Civil
Aviation Act 13 of 2009
Provincial Legislation
Western Cape Constitution Act 1 of 1998
Introduces a constitutional framework for the province
Western Cape Land Administration Act 6 of
Regulates land and land usage
1998
Western cape Planning and Development Act
Regulates planning and development within the province
7 of 1999
Municipal Legislation
CCT By-Law relating to Filming
The Purpose of the By-law is to regulate and facilitate filming in the
CCT
By-law relating to Streets, Public Places and
The purpose of the by-law is to regulate activities in streets and public
the prevention of noise nuisances 2007
places and prevent excessive noise nuisance
 Provincial Gazette 6277, 24
June 2005
 Promulgated
28
September
2007, PG 6469; LA 44559
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 24
4.2
Administrative Framework
The Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is managed by the BMB which forms part of the CCT’s
Environmental Resource Management Department under the Strategy and Planning
Directorate. The Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is located within the Eastern Region and is
under the management of a Reserve Manager who reports to the Area Manager. The Nature
Reserve is in a serious need for an additional staff member particularly a People and
Conservation Officer. Over the years the Nature Reserve has seen a need to increase its
Environmental Education and Awareness programmes as a response to various social
pressures on the environment. This has therefore created a need to have an additional person
to run these programmes as they are difficult for the Reserve Manager to plan and implement
them.
4.2.1 Staffing complement
Table 2: Staffing Complement
Designation
Workdays
Hours
Reserve Manager
Monday -Friday
40 hours
Student (annual contract)
Monday - Sunday
40 hours
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 25
5. PROTECTED AREA POLICY FRAMEWORK & GUIDING MANAGEMENT
5.1
PRINCIPLES
Management Objectives
Table 3: Management Objectives
High level objective
CONSERVATION
Objective
Representative
ecosystems:
ECOSYSTEMS:
To conserve a representative
of
landscape,
the
in
regions
a
linked
and
the
maintenance or restoration of
environmental processes to
enable natural spatial and
temporal
variation
in
structural,
functional
and
compositional components of
biodiversity.
Initiative
and
expansion
land
FUNCTIONAL
ecosystems
Consolidation
OF
REPRESENTATIVE,
sample
Sub-objective
To incorporate a
spectrum of viable
of
areas:
Consolidation
of
focusing
under
on
protected
areas
representative
ecosystems, functional linkages and
(1)
Low level plan
Identification
of
under
represented
habitats/ecosystems.
(2) Consolidate Nature Reserve boundaries.
(3)
Incorporate
untransformed
Nature Reserve expansion plan
fynbos.
processes.
terrestrial
Fire management:
ecosystems
characteristic
(1)
of
Implement
a fire management
the Harmony Flats
accordance
Nature
areas (frequency, season, intensity,
biodiversity
size).
(2) Monitor impact of fire management regime.
Reserve,
and to re-introduce
with
and
objectives
of
plan
Apply appropriate fire regime in fynbos
threatened
in
conserving
biota.
Fire management plan
missing elements
where
possible.
Threatened biota:
Maintain
viable
populations
of
threatened species in order to meet
obligations in terms of international
(1) Maintain viable populations of rare/threatened
plant and animal species (identify, locate &
Monitoring Plan
monitor populations of priority species)
agreements and conventions.
Monitoring Plan:
Implement and maintain an approved
(1) Implement and maintain a biological monitoring
Monitoring Plan for the Nature Reserve
programme for the Nature Reserve.
Monitoring Plan
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 32
Rehabilitation:
Rehabilitate
degraded
areas, including the reestablishment
of
natural
biodiversity patterns, and
the
restoration
of
Vegetation:
Re-establishment of physical, chemical
and biological processes in degraded
(1)
Rehabilitate all old degraded sites.
Vegetation Rehabilitation plan
vegetation areas.
key
processes which support
the long term persistence
of biodiversity.
Alien plants and other alien biota:
Control and where possible eliminate
alien biota to facilitate re-establishment
of natural biodiversity pattern and
process in invaded areas.
MITIGATE
INTERNAL
and
invasive
(2) Prioritise areas for alien removal focusing on
biodiversity
(3)
Internal
with
Nature
Minimise the impacts associated with
PRESSURES:
Reserve
objectives:
the development of visitor and Nature
To
threats
and
To
that
non-
Reserve management infrastructure,
(1)
and
limit
biodiversity
management
ensure
restoration.
Implement removal programs for priority
Nature
Reserve
and ensure that such developments do
(2)
not
(3) Developments in accordance with EIA process
resulting from non-biodiversity
operations
objectives.
management
generation including visitor,
Internal
resource
Minimise the impacts associated with
(5) Implement green standards and environmental
visitor
best practice based on corporate policy
environmental
operations
impacts
aspects
on
and
surrounding
land and resource use.
(revenue
use,
developments,
management
etc.)
are
activities,
informed
and
constrained by biodiversity
plan ; Alien biota management
plan
zonation
aspects of Nature Reserve
pressures
Invasive alien plant management
developments:
EXTERNAL
reduce
species.
species and areas.
Reconciling biodiversity
other
(1) Establish the distribution and density of
compromise
biodiversity
Develop
(NEMA)
activities:
and
Nature
Reserve
(4)
and
Establish
and
implement
corporate
visitor
CDF.
policies.
carrying
CDF
capacities.
management activities, and ensure
that such activities do not compromise
biodiversity objectives.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 33
conservation
objectives,
Extractive
resource
use:
and that the impacts of
Minimise the impacts of extractive
(1) Quantify current extractive resource activities.
these
on
resource use, and ensure that such
(2) Define opportunities and constraints in line with
biodiversity are minimised.
activities are aligned with corporate
corporate
guidelines; are within management
(3) Regulate resource use, according to adaptive
capacity
management process
activities
constraints,
and
do
not
guidelines.
Research to take place.
compromise biodiversity objectives.
(1) Engage with regional land management
authorities, incl. IDP’s and SDF’s at local &
Reconciling biodiversity
External
with
Minimise the impacts associated with
(2) Alignment with bioregional planning, including
To reduce external threats
inappropriate
explicitly identified areas for the maintenance of
and pressures, and limit
the Nature Reserve
external
impacts
of
threats:
developments:
developments
outside
regional
level.
importance for biodiversity pattern and processes
with
surrounding
appropriate
land
use
guidelines.
land & resource use on
(3) Provide input into planning and decision
biodiversity
making process for external development that may
conservation
Communication
Strategy
and
Action Plan
compromise Nature Reserve and Biodiversity
within the Nature Reserve.
Network
(4)
objectives.
Negotiate
to
ensure
that
external
developments are not visually obtrusive or out of
character with the park.
(1)
External
activities:
Negotiate
to
mitigate
or
improve
the
management of external potentially detrimental
Negotiate to ensure that external
impacts.
Education Strategy and Action
resource
not
(2) Encourage eco-friendly resource use and land
Plan
ecological
management practices on adjacent properties.
and
detrimentally
land
affect
use
do
processes within the Nature Reserve.
(3) Mitigate the impacts of oil and other pollution
events, through appropriate contingency planning
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 34
Hydrological and water chemistry
(1) Lobby for appropriate Catchment categorization
changes:
(currently General Authorization).
Participate
in
activities
for
the
(2) Encourage enforcement of legislation applicable
maintenance of river flow regimes and
to the management and protection of aquatic
water chemistry within limits for the
resources.
maintenance of ecosystem processes
(4) Facilitate regular assessments of River Health.
in
(5) Address the issue of sewage and other point
aquatic
ecosystems
within
the
Nature Reserve.
Illegal
harvesting
destruction
Plan
source pollution into aquatic systems
of
resources:
Prevent the illegal collection, removal
and
of
biological resources.
physical
and
(1) Public liaison
Safety and Security Plan
(2) Law enforcement
Security Operational Manual
(3) Audit every five years
WILDNESS / REMOTENESS:
To
maintain
and
restore
uniqueness/tranquillity in the
Harmony
Flats
Nature
(1) CDF
Range of experiences:
(1)
Provide a range of visitor
Nature
Reserve
zonation
(2) Develop CDF and sensitivity-value analysis.
experiences.
(3) Invasive plant management
and experiential qualities of
Sense
uniqueness are maintained,
Maintain
enhanced,
appropriate sense of place.
where
(2) Nature Reserve expansion
plan
Reserve such that the spiritual
or
Education Strategy and Action
of
place:
or
restore
(1)
Implement
&
update
CDF
plan
(2) Establish and apply appropriate visitor carrying
capacity
(3) Negotiate to ensure that external developments
necessary restored
are not visually obtrusive or out of character with the
Nature Reserve.
(1) Develop a database of all tangible and intangible
cultural assets which include and inventory, maps
CULTURAL
HERITAGE
and relevant documentation.
MANAGEMENT:
Conserve and
To investigate and manage all
cultural heritage assets
cultural assets
manage
N/A
(2) Develop site Management Plans for each
Cultural Heritage site with monitoring systems in
N/A
place for management priorities and prescriptions.
(3) Facilitate appropriate Interpretation of cultural
heritage associated with the Nature Reserve
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 35
5.2
SWOT analysis
Table 4: SWOT analysis
Strengths
 The Nature Reserve has a full time manager who oversees the
Weaknesses

management of the Nature Reserve.
 The Nature Reserve proclaimed which gives a legal status for the
Lack of capacity in terms of Human resources to maintain some important tasks such as baseline data collection,
environmental education and monitoring. The tasks are currently run by a student but there is no continuity.

Biodiversity Management Branch to fully control the site.
The Nature Reserve has no fences on its boundaries therefore the access is not controlled which leads to a
difficulty to manage effectively.
 The Nature Reserve has a good relationship with local organisations.
Opportunities
Threats


There is a possibility to link the Nature Reserve with the
neighbouring private properties to form ecological corridor
Illegal activities- the thoroughfare through the Nature Reserve has a number of bad consequences such as too
frequent fires, illegal dumping (household and rubble), sand removal that lead to soil erosion, restio and bulb
through the Stewardship programme.
harvesting.

Stray dogs that have a bad impact on nesting birds, small mammals and tortoises.

Invasive alien plants- mostly Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu), Acacia saligna (Port Jackson) and many
 To establish a Friends group that will assist the Nature Reserve on
variety of activities particularly environmental awareness.
herbaceous weeds that occur in the Nature Reserve.
 To develop very effective and important monitoring systems.

Nature Reserve isolation- the Nature Reserve is very isolated therefore may become a major threat in the future in
terms of viability.

Indiscriminate development- Bloubos road development/ extension could have serious impacts on the Nature
Reserve as it will break the species distribution and connection

to the rest of the corridor. At the same time affect the hydrology in the system.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 36
5.3
Protected Area management policy framework and Guiding Principles
5.3.1 Community Participation
The Harmony Flats Nature Reserve will strive to nurture productive and mutually beneficial
partnerships that result in economic and/or biodiversity equity. This will be achieved through
the creation of job opportunities in support of Expanded Public Works and Poverty Relief
Programmes. Through the support of community based Social Development Initiatives the
Nature Reserve will strive to enhance socio-economic benefits to local communities.
The Nature Reserve has in the past ran projects through Working for Wetlands and internally
funded projects that have proved to be successful in terms of temporary job creation. However
these projects are never sustainable as they only last for a few weeks or months. However the
Nature Reserve management is meeting with various organisations with the aim to try and
explore possibilities of raising funds and subsequently running more sustainable projects that
will benefit the Nature Reserve and the communities around it. The Nature Reserve staff is
also in the process of establishing a Friends Group for the Nature Reserve. It is intended that
this group will assist with environmental awareness and education programmes. On the other
side the HFWG and TAG Changers of Cassablanca and Sercor Park communities run and
assist in eight environmental education programmes that take place over a year period. These
organisations help mobilise the kids and youth from the community who come to assist in
invasive plant clearing among other things.
5.3.2 Environmental Education
The Nature Reserve hosts quite a number of environmental activities that are aimed at the
different age levels of the surrounding communities, these activities are run annually and they
include the following:
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 37
5.3.2.1 Environmental Education Programmes
Table 6: Environmental Education Programmes
Activity
Date
Target group
Waste Week
March / April
Local schools
Biodiversity / Bird Week
May
Local schools
Holiday Programme
June/July
Younger children
Arbor Week
September
Local schools
Spring Walks
September/ October
Public members
SEEP Hike
October
Youth
Careers in Conservation
As per request
Schools
Weedbuster Week
October
Youth
Holiday Programme
December
Younger children
Additionally the Nature Reserve also hosts random walks and talks for different organisations
and groups such as interns, international students and visitors. All these activities are held in
conjunction with HFWG and Tag Changers. However in the absence of an EE officer this area
is not optimised as it could be.
5.3.3 Security and safety
A safety and security audit still needs to be carried out in the Nature Reserve. Harmony Flats
Nature Reserve is not entirely fenced off except in the North West and East boundaries
therefore access is uncontrolled. There are no buildings at this stage except for the container
that is being utilised for meetings when required. This container has security gates and
burglars on windows and doors to prevent attempts to break in. The fence posts have in the
past been stolen and the perpetrators were never discovered. The other form of theft that
takes place is illegal plant harvesting, mostly the bulbous plants such as Incwadi (Boophane
disticha), Thamnochortus fruticosus. At this stage it is difficult to know who is responsible for
these wrong doings at the same time the quantities taken out are also not known. However
security measures will be introduced after the office buildings have been developed.
5.3.4 Cultural historical, archaeological, paleontological management
No cultural historical information is known and available to the Nature Reserve at this stage
however some research is being conducted. The only cultural history that is known to occur is
that of the Lwandle area which is in close proximity to the Nature Reserve however not
relevant to the management of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 38
5.3.5 Tourism development and management
Tourism is one of the country’s main sources of income as it contributes tremendously to the
Gross Domestic Product through different segments. The eco-tourism segment alone plays a
very important role in showcasing the protected natural areas in South Africa and Cape Town
is no exception. This segment does not only bring benefit to protected areas financially but
also help to create job opportunities for the local people.
In terms of scenic beauty particularly in spring Harmony Flats Nature Reserve demonstrates a
wide variety of wild flowers that can only be seen at a specific time and only in this part of the
world. As a result of the conservation status (Critically Endangered) of the LAF, the Nature
Reserve has some of the rarest plants on earth which should therefore make it one of the
tourist destinations within the Cape Town area. Although the important status is there, the
Nature Reserve does not get the marketing and recognition that it deserves.
As a result of this the management together with the local organisations and possibly with the
Friends Group in the future will try to explore some funding opportunities that will help unleash
the specialised botanical tourism potential in this area. There are intentions of linking the
Nature Reserve on the tourism route, develop a partnership with the Lwandle Museum and
international organisations such as African Conservation Experience which is a United
Kingdom based organisation. There are opportunities for township tourism whereby the local
talent is show cased to visitors by a various cultural performances that the communities
around possess. Some of these initiatives have already started but are not sustained due to a
number of factors that included a lack of staff capacity and budget. The opportunities have
been identified and tourism packages still need to be developed.
5.3.6 Infrastructure management
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve does not have any building infrastructure except for the
container that is used when needed. Other than that the Nature Reserve has a fence on two of
its borders that receive maintenance when needed. The Nature Reserve is currently in the
process of constructing its new building offices that will comprise of two offices, a reception
and exhibition area, a kitchen and a lecture room. Accompanying this building a potting shed
will also be constructed for the purposes of a nursery. The construction period is envisaged to
take up to six months. An infrastructural maintenance plan will be developed once the project
has been completed.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 39
5.3.7 Biodiversity conservation management
5.3.7.1 Community based natural resource management
The harvesting of natural resources within the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve is currently not
allowed. Research on the amount of harvesting and the species harvested across the city is
currently underway. Some investigations as to the types and extent of harvesting in the Nature
Reserve has been started but to date there is no detailed or conclusive data, that determines
where current harvesting is sustainable, and or what potential threats are foreseen should
these activities persist.
5.3.7.2 Fire management
Fire plays an essential ecological role in the life-cycle of fynbos species. Fire is crucial to the
long term conservation of species within the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve and is therefore
considered an important component of Nature Reserve management.
Fire management
involves varying the season, frequency and intensity of fires, and reconciling ecological and
practical requirements. Too frequent fires, or fires which burn out of phase of the natural
burning regime, present a threat to slower-growing species, which can be eliminated. If fire is
excluded from the area, forest species can invade resulting in fynbos species being lost.
Conversely if vegetation is allowed to burn too frequently, the area becomes degraded and
alien species, especially grasses. Grasses maintain a shorter fire cycle and permanently
change the vegetation structure and biodiversity value.
Although fire plays a crucial role in the management of fynbos ecosystems this is to be done
with extra caution in Harmony Flats Nature Reserve. Over the past 24 years since the Nature
Reserve was officially opened and proclaimed it has been inundated by frequent fires. On
average at least three fires are recorded per year in different sections of the Nature Reserve.
This has been an occurrence since proclamation and it is exacerbated by the fact that the
Nature Reserve is not entirely fenced off and therefore people still use it as a thoroughfare
which makes it difficult to know if most fires are arson or accidental.
As a result of this some plants particularly the Proteaceae species only occur on one section
although this provides some heterogeneity in the veld but the main reason is because some
sections burn more than one occasion in two fire seasons which lead to the grass dominance.
It is therefore the responsibility of the Nature Reserve Manager to develop a proper fire
management plan that will encompass all different factors at the same time taking into
consideration the legislation such as the Veld and Fire Act and other legislation that one has to
abide to.
The fire management plan will take into consideration the fact that there are
residential areas that are surrounding the Nature Reserve therefore the fire frequency of eight
to ten years will be applied.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 40
5.3.7.3 Soil erosion and control
A draft rehabilitation plan has been developed for the Nature Reserve; this plan has attempted
to address various challenges that occur within the reserve that include soil erosion, rubble,
light scale sand mining, and invasive species. The plan will address how these challenges will
be dealt with and prevented as well as the interventions to be applied e.g. a formal footpath
such as a boardwalk.
5.3.7.4 Invasive species management
The management of invasive species is a priority within the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve.
The main plant species that occur in the Nature Reserve include Acacia saligna (Port
Jackson), Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu) and more than 11 other herbaceous weeds
species. Animal species include mainly the domestic dogs that are recorded in packs on the
Nature Reserve. Invasive species management within the Nature Reserve is applied in
accordance with the City’s Invasive Species Strategy and in co-ordination with various
government funded initiatives, including EPWP: WfW and Working for Wetlands. The Nature
Reserve has a draft invasive species plan that addresses all strategies and control measures
needed to be taken into consideration with regards to the management of invasive species.
5.3.7.5 Species introductions
Currently the Nature Reserve does not introduce any species, however in the past this has
happened through Search and Rescue from other sites of similar environmental features as
the Nature Reserve. In the near future another search and rescue will again take place and
the plant species will be identified recorded and this will also be factored into the rehabilitation
plan as they will be planted on the kikuyu patches.
Once the Nature Reserve has been fully secured and all the systems and plans have been
developed and implemented it is intended that re-introductions of geometric tortoise will take
place. This is dependent on results of research projects and approval from the BMB Faunal
Community. All proposed re-introductions need to be approved before implementation.
Recommendations and approvals are required from the Faunal and Floral Management
Committees as well as from CapeNature. The implementation of any re-introduction
programmes will be specified in plan of action and documented accurately.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 41
5.3.7.6 Strategic research
There is no research that currently takes place in the Nature Reserve except for the nature
conservation students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. There is however
an opportunity for more strategic research projects on a variety of projects. It is within the
BMB’s intentions in the future to encourage local universities to conduct relevant research on
Nature Reserves including Harmony Flats Nature Reserve.
5.4
Sensitivity Analysis
No Sensitivity Analysis has been conducted on the Nature Reserve at this stage.
5.5
Zonation Plan of the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve
5.5.1 Zoning Informants
This section briefly outlines the values underlying the identification of tourism use zones. It is
important to remember that the landscape/biodiversity analysis is one of the informants
necessary in the zonation process. Although the biodiversity analysis has not been conducted
in the Nature Reserve it is intrinsically a relatively objective scientific process. The zonation
definitions and descriptions have been workshoped with the branch and four categories
decided on such as the Conservation zone, Low intensity leisure zone and high intensity
leisure zone (for more information on the categories, refer to the Zoning table on Appendix 2).
Harmony Flats Nature Reserve as a result of its small size of only nine hectares has only one
zone i.e. Conservation Area, see Zonation map below:
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 42
Map 6: Zonation Map for Harmony Flats Nature Reserve
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 43
6. DEVELOPMENT PLAN
No significant development is contemplated to take place within the boundaries of Harmony
Flats Nature Reserve. However a footpath will be developed on a less sensitive location, the
main aim being to encourage the visitors to only walk on a demarcated area thereby
preventing trampling on vegetation. Additionally the new reserve offices will be constructed on
an adjacent site on Erf: 13815 which is managed by the Department of Sport and Recreation
(CCT). The official permission for this agreement is in Appendix 5.
The building will comprise an exhibition centre, and reception, two offices, a kitchen, toilet
facilities and a classroom that will be utilised for the purposes of Environmental Education and
Green Futures lectures (Green Futures will be responsible for a one year learnership that is
aimed at capacitating the local youth interested in basic horticultural skills). A nursery with the
potting shed will be developed next to the building and it will also be utilised for the purposes
of the skills programme. The building project is envisaged to begin in January 2011 and the
project completion in July 2011. The Nature Reserve also aims to fence off its southern
section in 2011 however a thorough public participation process will take place whereby the
communities using the Nature Reserve will be interviewed about this possibility.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 44
7. COSTING PLAN
Table 7: Costing Plan
Management Action
Funding Source
1. Invasive Alien Plants
Management
Grant
1.1 Rehabilitation
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
R211, 000.00
2. Environmental Education
Operating
R5, 135.85
R5, 418.32
R5, 716.32
R6, 030.00
R6, 364.41
3. Human Resources
Operating
R356, 400.00
R384, 912.00
R415, 704.96
R448, 961.36
R484, 878.27
4. Infrastructure Development
Operating / Capex
4.1 Fencing
Operating
R246, 915.36
4.2.1 Interpretive Signage
Capex
R200, 000.00
4.2.3 Directional Signage
Operating
4.2.4 Boardwalk development
Capex
7. Maintenance
Operating
8. General Expenses
Grant / Operating
R454,991.36
R491,242.68
4.2 Signage
R3, 151.00
R90, 000.00
R2, 000.00
9. Special Projects
Total
R577,686.85
R837,645.68
R511,421.28
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 45
PART 3
8.
MONITORING & AUDITING
8.1
ANNUAL AUDIT PROCEDURE
A detailed auditing process of the past three years of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve exists.
These include the Protected Areas Review as well as the annual Nature Reserve visits. Every
three years the auditory process includes the METT-SA auditing process (Appendix 13). The
focus of these audits is to assist the management in achieving management objectives and
improving management effectiveness of the protected area.
8.1.1 Management Plan review
This management plan should be reviewed on a 5-yearly basis and adjusted where
necessary. To achieve this, the following questions (and others as needed) should be
addressed:

Did this Management Plan make a meaningful contribution to the management of the
Protected Area?

Were individual management “prescriptions” realistic and achievable? Were they written
unambiguously or was there room for misunderstanding?

Were budgets for each management activity realistic? Were the allocated budgets too
much or too little?

Were sufficient staff members of the right qualifications allocated to each management
activity?
There will be some overlap between the review and the audit and they should therefore be
done on the same day, by the same team.
8.2
Biodiversity Monitoring
A number of monitoring programmes have been identified as necessary to assist with the
effective management of the Harmony Flats Nature Reserve. Some programmes have been
well implemented and included into the management of the Nature Reserve. Others require
formalizing and further implementation. The Biodiversity Database also plays a crucial role in
the monitoring of both floral and faunal species which allows one to add sightings as seen on
the Nature Reserve. When a sighting is added one is requested to insert a date, this allows
one
to
measure
the
trends
of
a
certain
species
over
a
certain
period.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 46
8.2.1 Monitoring Requirements
Table 8: Biodiversity Monitoring
Action
Responsible Party
Means of Verification
Frequency
IS Vegetation
Nature Reserve staff
Weekly Inspections
Weekly
Actions to be monitored include; the
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Final Inspections
Once off – completion of contract
Field Verification Sheets
Annually - to determine Management
Vegetation Monitoring
effectiveness of the operation, the effectiveness
of the follow–up, methods used, compliance with
Unit Clearing Plan
the alien clearing schedule and environmental
damage such as herbicide spillage
Fire mapping
Nature Reserve staff
The accurate mapping and recording of all veld
Nature Reserve Manager, Students and
fires must be done to build up a useful record
Interns
Veld age map, fire map
Post fire
Stratified Sampling plots
Post fire
that will assist with veld interpretation. These
records will take the guesswork out of the effects
of fire when it occurs on the property. A simple
map indicating the extent of the burn with the
date of the fire is the minimum requirement.
Post Fire Recruitment
Nature Reserve staff
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
6 months
12 months
Abundance, Density & Structure
Nature Reserve staff
Fixed point photography
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Presence, abundance, density
Annually for 3 years
Nature Reserve staff
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Field Observation Sheet
Annually
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 47
Nature Reserve staff, Nature Reserve
Threatened Species
Manager, Student, Custodians of Rare
Seasonally
Line transect
and Endangered Wildflowers (CREW)
Annually
Action
Responsible Party
Means of Verification
Frequency
Nature Reserve staff
Transects and field observation
Monthly
Faunal Monitoring
Bird counts and identification
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Nature Reserve staff
Small mammals
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Stratified Random Sherman trap array
Annually
Rehabilitation sites
Nature Reserve staff
New species recording on rehab. sites.
Monthly
Nature Reserve Manager, Student
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 48
PART 4
9.
REFERENCES
Anon 2010. City of Cape Town, Five-year Plan for Cape Town, Integrated Development Plan
(IDP) 2007 – 2012, 2010 – 2011 Review. Unpublished report, CCT.
Anon 20031. The Integrated Metropolitan Environmental Policy. Unpublished report, City Of Cape
Town.
Anon 20032. The Biodiversity Strategy. Unpublished report, City Of Cape Town.
Anon 20091. Local Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2009 – 2019. Unpublished report, City Of
Cape Town.
Anon 20092. CCT Biodiversity Network – Analysis: 2009 Methods and Results. Unpublished
report, City Of Cape Town.
Anon,
(undated).
Cape
Town’s
Unique
Biodiversity
Endemic
Ecosystems.
www.capetown.gov.za/environment
Cape Project Team 2000. Cape Action Plan for the Environment: Strategy. Unpublished report,
WWF (South Africa).
Helme N, Motivation for Extension of Harmony Flats Nature Reserve, Gordon’s Bay. Nick Helme Botanical
Surveys. Scarborough
Holness, S. Skowno, A. 2008. Report on Sensitivity-Value Analysis and Zonation Process for the
Boland Mountain Complex. Cape Nature Conservation Internal report.
Holmes, P. and Dorse, C. (eds) (2008) City of Cape Town Biodiversity Report 2008. City of Cape
Town: Cape Town.
Jarman, M. (ed.). 1986. Conservation priorities in lowland regions of the Fynbos Biome. SA Nat. Sc.Prog.
Report 87. CSIR, Petoria
Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum. http://www.lwandle.com/
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 49
Maze K, Rebelo A. 1999. Core Flora Conservation Areas on the Cape Flats. FCC Report 99/1.
Botanical Society of SA, Kirstenbosch.
Myers N, Mittermeyer RACG, Fonseca GA, Kent J 2000. Biodiversity hotspots for conservation
priorities. Nature 403:853-858.
Rebelo AG, Boucher C, Helme NA, Mucina L, Rutherford MC et al. 2006. Fynbos biome. In: Mucina, L,
Rutherford MC (Eds) The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland: Strelitzia, 19, pp. 52-219.
South African Weather Services. 2010. Cape Town
Wright G, 2004. Management Plan for Harmony Flats Nature Reserve.
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 50
PART 5: Appendices
Please refer to list of attached appendices
Integrated Reserve Management Plan | 51