Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Hartbeespoort Dam

Transcription

Tswelopele Environmental (Pty) Ltd
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................... IV
1
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 1
1.1
Purpose of the Study .............................................................................................................. 1
1.2
Description of the Study Area................................................................................................. 1
1.3
Purpose of this Document ...................................................................................................... 2
2
APPROACH & METHODOLOGY ..................................................................... 2
3
ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS QUO ................................................................... 2
3.1
Geology & Soils ...................................................................................................................... 5
3.2
Hydrology................................................................................................................................ 8
3.3
Topography........................................................................................................................... 11
3.4
Climatic Conditions ............................................................................................................... 11
3.5
Air Quality ............................................................................................................................. 11
3.6
Ecological Systems .............................................................................................................. 14
3.6.1
3.7
Shoreline Zone............................................................................................................. 14
Ecological Systems (Terrestrial)........................................................................................... 22
3.7.1
Identified Sensitive and Natural Areas......................................................................... 22
3.7.2
Fauna and Flora........................................................................................................... 24
3.8
Heritage Resources .............................................................................................................. 32
3.9
Tourism Situation.................................................................................................................. 35
3.9.1
Tourism in South Africa and the NW Province ............................................................ 35
3.9.2
Tourism Supply in the Study Area ............................................................................... 36
3.9.3
Tourism Demand ......................................................................................................... 45
3.9.4
Tourism Development Potential and Gap Analysis ..................................................... 48
3.9.5
Assessment of Supportive Environment for Tourism in the Study Area...................... 51
3.10 Safety and Security .............................................................................................................. 53
4
LAND USE ANALYSIS ................................................................................... 57
4.1
Current Trends and Practices............................................................................................... 57
4.1.1
4.2
Shoreline Vegetation.................................................................................................... 57
Socio-Economic Features .................................................................................................... 57
4.2.1
Demographics .............................................................................................................. 57
4.2.2
Current Tourism Land Use Practices........................................................................... 59
4.3
The Economic Profile ........................................................................................................... 59
4.4
Proposed Land Use Planning and Policy Framework (LDO / IDP / Spatial
Development Frameworks) .................................................................................................. 62
4.5
Land Management Issues .................................................................................................... 64
Status Quo Report
Hartbeespoort Strategic Environmental Assessment
30 October 2006
xi
4.5.1
4.6
Development Trends in the Study Area ............................................................................... 64
4.6.1
5
Illegal Land Uses ......................................................................................................... 64
Identification of Development Potential ....................................................................... 64
SERVICES ...................................................................................................... 64
5.1
Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 64
5.2
Existing Services and Capacities ......................................................................................... 64
5.2.1
Water Services and Sanitation .................................................................................... 64
5.2.2
Roads and Stormwater ................................................................................................ 68
5.2.3
Transportation .............................................................................................................. 68
5.2.4
Electricity...................................................................................................................... 68
6
RELEVANT LEGISLATION ............................................................................ 69
7
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION .............................................................................. 69
8
9
7.1
Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 69
7.2
Approach & Methodology ..................................................................................................... 69
7.3
Interested and Affected Parties Invitations & Public Awareness.......................................... 72
7.4
Focus Group Meetings ......................................................................................................... 72
7.5
Stakeholder Involvement ...................................................................................................... 73
7.6
List of Issues and Concerns Raised by IAP’s....................................................................... 73
7.7
Suggestions .......................................................................................................................... 73
7.8
Consultation with Representative Groups / Organizations................................................... 73
EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF CURRENT PLANNING AND
STRATEGIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT ................................................... 73
8.1
Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 73
8.2
Consolidated List of Issues & Concerns............................................................................... 74
8.3
Constraints of Current Planning ........................................................................................... 75
8.4
Opportunities ........................................................................................................................ 75
REFERENCES ................................................................................................ 78
Appendix 1: Selected Plant Species Recorded in the Hartbeespoort Dam Shoreline Zone
Appendix 2: Heritage Resources Located in the Study Area
Appendix 3: Tourism in South Africa and the North West Province
Appendix 4: Legislation and Polices Pertaining to the Study Area
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
xii
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1:
Study area boundaries .................................................................................................... 3
Figure 2:
Cadastral information for the study area......................................................................... 4
Figure 3:
Biophysical aspects of the study area............................................................................. 6
Figure 4:
Soil classification map (source: ARCSA 2006) ............................................................... 7
Figure 5:
Temperature data for Hartbeespoort ............................................................................ 12
Figure 6:
Rainfall data for Hartbeespoort ..................................................................................... 12
Figure 7:
Idealised shoreline vegetation incorporating a broad zone of emergent
macrophytes (foreground) and well-developed woody zone (background).................. 16
Figure 8:
The Present Ecological State (PES) classification of the delineated
segments around the HBPD. ........................................................................................ 20
Figure 9:
The Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) classification of the
delineated segments around the HBPD........................................................................ 21
Figure 10:
Ecological sensitivity based on broad land use classification....................................... 33
Figure 11:
Heritage assets in the study area. ................................................................................ 34
Figure 12:
Tourism product definition............................................................................................. 36
Figure 13:
Tourism sites in the study area. .................................................................................... 43
Figure 14:
Land use within the study area. .................................................................................... 58
Figure 15:
Existing services in the study area................................................................................ 65
Figure 16:
Ward boundaries of Madibeng Local Municipality. ....................................................... 71
Figure 17:
Residential areas and tourism in the study area........................................................... 72
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
xiii
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1:
Soil classifications of the study area (ARCSA, 2006). .................................................... 8
Table 2:
Water quality in HBPD for 2000 (NWDACE, 2002) ........................................................ 9
Table 3:
Pollution sources and associated pollutants found in the NW Province
(Source: NWDACE, 2002). ........................................................................................... 14
Table 4:
The Present Ecological State (PES) class and description thereof for the
Hartbeespoort shoreline scoring system....................................................................... 18
Table 5:
The Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) class and description
thereof for the Hartbeespoort shoreline scoring system. .............................................. 19
Table 6:
Red Data herpetofauna species recorded for the NW Province................................... 25
Table 7:
Red Data Lepidoptera species...................................................................................... 26
Table 8:
Red Data species recorded in the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve: ............................... 26
Table 9:
Red Data floral species. ................................................................................................ 28
Table 10:
List of plants Declared to be Protected in terms of Section 86(1) (a) of
Schedule 11 of the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance 12 of 1983. ................ 28
Table 11:
Exotic species potentially occurring in the study area and management
category......................................................................................................................... 32
Table 12:
Profile of foreign and domestic tourists to the NW Province......................................... 36
Table 13:
Tourism product elements of the Hartbeespoort area. ................................................. 38
Table 14:
Accommodation establishments in the Hartbeespoort area (GTA, 2006) .................... 41
Table 15:
Soft versus hard adventure activities. ........................................................................... 42
Table 16:
Accommodation establishments in the Hartbeespoort area (GTA, 2006). ................... 45
Table 17:
Accommodation establishments roomnights sold (GTA, 2006).................................... 45
Table 18:
Accommodation establishments bednights sold (GTA, 2006). ..................................... 46
Table 19:
Breakdown of bednights sold (formal accommodation only) (GTA, 2006). .................. 46
Table 20:
Hartbeespoort market share (total market) (GTA, 2006; SA Tourism). ........................ 48
Table 21:
SWOT Analysis. ............................................................................................................ 49
Table 22:
Crime statistics for Hartbeespoort Police Station (SAPS, 2006). ................................. 54
Table 23:
Average crime statistics for the Marico area (SAPS, 2006).......................................... 55
Table 24:
Difference between HTB Police Station and the Marico area....................................... 56
Table 25:
Population (StatsSA, 2001)........................................................................................... 57
Table 26:
Annual household income (StatsSA, 2001). ................................................................. 59
Table 27:
Economic employment sectors (StatsSA, 2001)........................................................... 60
Table 28:
Level of service (StatsSA, 2001)................................................................................... 67
Table 29:
Sanitation provision (StatsSA, 2001). ........................................................................... 68
Table 30: Levels of service provided (StatsSA, 2001). ..................................................................... 68
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
xiv
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
CFC
Chlorofluorocarbons
CHHS
Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site
CO2
Carbon Dioxide
DEAT
National Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
DWAF
Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
EIS
Ecological Importance and Sensitivity
GDACE
Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment
HBPD
Hartbeespoort Dam
HCFC
Hyrdochlorofluorocarbons
HEHA
Hartbeespoort Environmental and Heritage Association
IDP
Integrated Development Plan
l/s
Litres per second
MPNE
Magaliesburg Protected Natural Environment
NW
North West
NWDACE
North West Province Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment.
PES
Present Ecological State
PNE
Protected Natural Environment
SAHRA
South African Heritage Resource Agency
SAPS
South African Police Services
SD
Sustainable Development
SDF
Spatial Development Framework
SEA
Strategic Environmental Assessment
SO2
Sulphur Dioxide
SoER
State of the Environment Report
VFR
Visitors to Friends and Relatives
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
xv
1 INTRODUCTION
Hartbeespoort Dam (HBPD) was constructed during the 1920's and completed in 1925. It is
located west of Pretoria and north of Johannesburg in the North West (NW) Province. HBPD is
situated within the Crocodile River catchment and drains into the Crocodile River. The principal
use of the impounded water is for irrigation (ca. 80%), with lesser use for domestic consumption
and compensation flows. The dam is also a major tourism attraction and is used for recreational
purposes. Today, HBPD is reported to be "fast becoming the Riviera of choice for sea-and beachstarved Gauteng". More and more people stream to HBPD to own property at the waterfront.
Although this trend has a positive economic effect, the natural environment is heavily impacted
on. The consequent increasing pressure on natural and human resources is manifesting in acute
problems such as growth in informal settlements, uncoordinated and fragmented housing
development leading to sub optimal infrastructure development, housing developments
increasingly close to the waterfront of the HBPD, as well as to the MPNE, loss of biodiversity and
heritage, decrease in water quality in the region, shortage of potable water and a lack of capacity
at the sewage treatment plant to handle increasing sewer loads. These and other problematic
issues threaten the sustainability of the environment and can lead to visible and invisible damage
(or 'measurable and immeasurable damage') if not addressed timeously in an integrated and
strategic manner. It must be borne in mind that impacts on the environment are not only impacts
on the physical environment, but also on the social and cultural environment. The HBPD is of
particular concern due to its value as a tourism attraction and its scenic qualities.
A holistic assessment is required in order to fully understand and appreciate the fine balance
between environmental sustainability, on the one hand, and development on the other. In order to
achieve sustainable development (SD) the opportunities offered and constraints imposed by the
environment need to be assessed, hence the need for a Strategic Environmental Assessment
(SEA), which should offer possible solutions for effective environmental management.
1.1 Purpose of the Study
This Status Quo Report is the third report in the process of the SEA, and follows on from the
inception report and literature review report for this project. The overall idea of a SEA is to focus
integration of environmental and socio-cultural issues into the formulation of plan and programs
already in use by sectors of local and provincial government. An SEA should be a process that
promotes and encourages sustainable development within a given area.
The approach that has been defined for this SEA is through the use of a multi-disciplinary team of
experts in the fields of: Heritage Assessments; Riparian and Aquatic Environments; Tourism
Specialists; Town Planning and Economic Impact Assessments; Ecological Specialist; and
Stakeholder Engagement specialists. These specialists have been tasked to identify constraints in
the study area with regards to the current conditions that prevail within the study area. From this,
opportunities will be identified for future development and other management plans to take
advantage of.
1.2 Description of the Study Area
The study area covers the HBPD area within the North West (NW) Province (Figure 1 and Figure
2). The boundaries are the NW provincial boundary with Gauteng to the east, south and west of
the HBPD. The northern boundary is the road crossing Silkaatsnek. The Magaliesburg Protected
Natural Environment (MPNE) and the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site (CHHS) are excluded
from the study area they are already protected in terms of legislation.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
1
However, because the catchment area extends into the Gauteng Province, cross-boundary issues
might arise that are incorporated into the project.
Areas of strategic importance that are focused on, due to increased pressure from development
initiatives, are included below:
•
Pelindaba Nuclear Facility and its 5km Buffer;
•
Meerhof as a development hotspot;
•
Schoemansville is having bulk service issues, particularly sewerage issues;
•
The road through the Brits Tunnel, passing Chameloen Village is a hotspot for
development and tourism activities;
•
Zandfontein is becoming important from a mining perspective, water abstraction here is
also an issue to be investigated;
•
The immediate area around the dam (1km from the shore line);
•
The Scheerpoort river is an important natural stream in the area, of which the upper
reaches are still pristine;
•
The Witwatersberg natural area and associated Cradle of Humankind world heritage site;
•
Land claims in the area;
•
Bokfontein is a development hotspot.
1.3 Purpose of this Document
The purpose of this Status Quo Report is to detail and present the existing environmental
resources that include the bio-physical, social, historic and economic environments. This report
forms the benchmark from which the desired state of the environment will be determined.
Following this report are the Vision and Strategies Report; and the Strategic Environmental
Strategic Environmental Management Plan Report.
2 APPROACH & METHODOLOGY
The approach that this SEA will follow has been based on the Department of Environmental
Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) Guideline Document for SEA in South Africa (2000). Linkage will also
be made to other similar studies already made in the surrounding area such as the Rustenburg
Priority Area 1 SEA (2003) and the ongoing HBPD Rehabilitation Programme.
3 ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS QUO
This section describes the general physical environment of the study area. Due to the size of the
study area, there are a number of different localised environments associated with the area. The
site falls mainly within two mountain ranges and is dominated centrally by the HBPD. The
Witwatersberg forms the southern mountain range and the northern range is dominated by the
Magaliesberg range. The MPNE falls within the study area and dominates the central western
portion of the study area.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
2
Draft Status Quo Report
Figure 1:
30 October 2006
Study area boundaries
3
Figure 2:
30 October 2006
Cadastral information for the study area
4
A number of formal and informal urbanised and residential development areas are located within
the study area, the largest of which is the area known as Schoemansville. Most of these areas are
located on the edge of HBPD, although the more informal areas are located further a field.
Land uses and activities in the study area are mixed and consist mostly of agricultural and
residential uses. Smaller scale land uses in the area include mining and other industrial activities.
3.1 Geology & Soils
The geology of the study area is dominated by formations in the Pretoria Group of the Transvaal
sequence, however undifferentiated surface deposits are located in low lying areas. Outcrops
within this group noted in the study area include: Magaliesberg, Silverton, Daspoort, Hekpoort and
Timeball. These are largely comprised of quartzites and shales.
The quartzite ridges are the dominant landforms in the area as they are harder than the more
easily eroded shales, and give rise to the Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg. The Silverton and
Timeball Shales form the valleys in between these two quartzite ridges. Undifferentiated surface
deposits lie on top of the shales. The geological formations run from the northeast to the
southwest through the study area. Certain aspects of the geology characterise the topography of
the area such as the existence of the quartzite ridges and shales in the valleys (Figure 3).
With regards to engineering precautions and characteristics of the geological conditions of the
Study area, Brink (1979) indicates that “difficulty is experienced in the effective operation of
French drains for the disposal of effluent from septic tanks, owing to the impermeability of the
Pretoria Shales” (Brink, 1979, pg 251). Due to the smoothness of the planes in the shales, they
have been known to slide into excavations along the direction of the dip. This, according to Brink
(1979) has been known to occur in the shales of the Silverton and Timeball groups, which are
present within the study area.
The soils in the area are indicated in Figure 4 and Table 1. Table 1 indicates the soil classes and
their classification from Figure 4 and should be used as the legend for the figure.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
5
Status Quo Report
Figure 3:
30 October 2006
Biophysical aspects of the study area
6
Status Quo Report
Figure 4:
30 October 2006
Soil classification map (source: ARCSA 2006)
7
Table 1:
Rec
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Soil classifications of the study area (ARCSA, 2006).
Depth
Class
Depth
m
>= 450
mm
and <
750
mm
d
>= 750
mm
m
>= 450
mm
and <
750
mm
s
< 450
mm
m
>= 450
mm
and <
750
mm
s
< 450
mm
m
>= 450
mm
and <
750
mm
Clay
Class
Clay
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
c
>=
35%
Leaching
Class
e
Leaching
eutrophic
soils
Soil
Class
Description
Soil Class
Hect
ares
DA
Black and red,
strongly
structured clayey
soils with high
base status
SOILS
WITH
A
HIGH CLAY
CONTENT
2558
6
DA
Black and red,
strongly
structured clayey
soils with high
base status
SOILS
WITH
A
HIGH CLAY
CONTENT
1896
18
SOILS
WITH
A
PLINTIC
CATENA
4101
7
g
calcarious
soils
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
e
eutrophic
soils
BB
Red, yellow and
greyish soils with
high base status
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
f
non
calcarious
soils
GA
Rock with limited
soils
ROCKY
AREAS
5821
3
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
d
mesotrophic
to eutrophic
soils
BA
Red, yellow and
greyish soils with
low to medium
base status
SOILS
WITH
A
PLINTIC
CATENA
2890
326
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
e
eutrophic
soils
GA
Rock with limited
soils
ROCKY
AREAS
5020
5
l
>=
15%
and
<
35%
e
eutrophic
soils
BA
Red, yellow and
greyish soils with
low to medium
base status
SOILS
WITH
A
PLINTIC
CATENA
5174
Areas of high potential cannot be determined at the broad scale, but would need to be determined
at a more localised scale (ARCSA, 2006). It is recommended that the NWDACE investigates
soils in the study area and develop a policy to protect soils of high potential for agriculture. The
Madibeng SDF (2003) has identified that agriculture accounts for the most contribution to the
Gross Regional Product, and intensive farming that dominates the study area, is the highest
contributor to this sector. With the access to water for irrigation, this becomes an important aspect
of the study area and thus thought should be given not to lose potentially arable land.
3.2 Hydrology
Surface Water
The study area falls within the Crocodile (west) Marico River Catchment (that drains into the
Limpopo River). The general hydrology of the area is dominated by the HBPD. The Crocodile
River and Magalies River feed the Dam, whilst the Crocodile continues on from the Dam, flowing
towards the northwest, past the town of Brits. The Crocodile enters the Dam downstream of the
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
8
Jukskei and Hennops Rivers that drain the eastern area of the catchment. 90% of the annual
inflow to the reservoir is derived from the Crocodile River.
HBPD is a 195 x 106 m³, 20 km² storage reservoir constructed during the 1920s and completed in
1925. Principal use of the impounded water is for irrigation (ca. 80%), with lesser uses for
domestic consumption and compensation flows (DH Environmental Consulting, 2005).
Other surface water in the area is associated with small farm dams and irrigation canals.
Water quality
The water quality of the HBPD leaves a lot to be desired. It must however be reiterated that the
dam’s original function was to provide water for agriculture and not as a potable water supply. The
use of the dam however has changed over the years and is now used as a recreation facility, as
well as being used for agricultural activities.
Water quality is constantly being monitored and this issue is being actively addressed in the
HBPD Rehabilitation Plan. The parameters that are being measured in The Dam are: Total
Dissolved Solids (TDS), sulphates (SO4), fluorides (F), chlorides (Cl), total aluminium (TAL),
sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) (NWDACE, 2002). The quality of
the water in the dam is provided in the table below. For more detailed information on the quality of
the water in the dam, it is advised to refer to the HBPD Rehabilitation Plan.
As can be seen from Table 2, the quality of the water in the dam on all but 2 occasions exceeds
the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry’s (DWAF) Guidelines.
Table 2:
Water quality in HBPD for 2000 (NWDACE, 2002)
Description
TDS
SO4
F
Cl
TAL
Na
K
Mg
Ca
Hartbeespoort
Dam
366
66
0.47
47.7
113.9
42.7
9.4
16.7
32.8
DWAF Water
Quality
Guidelines
<40
<5 g/l
<2.0
mg/l
<100.0
µg/l
<5 µg/l
<2.0
-
-
0-32
mg/l
Ground Water
Ground water in South Africa represents an important reservoir and source of potable and
irrigation water for many South Africans. According to the 1:500,000 Hydrogeological Map series
of the Republic of South Africa (1999), sheet no. 2526, the study area is underlain by fractured
and integranular and fractured aquifers that yield typically 0.1 litres per second (l/s) to 5.0l/s. The
areas of higher yield (2 l/s - 5.0l/s) are associated with the Magaliesriver, whilst the quartzite ridge
of the Magaliesberg yields 0.5l/s – 2.0l/s, as do the lower lying shale valleys. The Witwatersberg
quartzite, andesite and basalt ridge typically yields 0.1l/s – 0.5l/s.
Water quality in the study area is typically considered to be of 0 – 70mS/m indicating water of
good quality, although ground water in the northern areas of the study area is less good
averaging between 70 – 300mS/m. The depth to the groundwater in the study area ranges from
dolomitic eyes on the surface (fountains) to water at rest levels of 59m below the surface (DWAF,
2006). Of the more than 400 boreholes registered with DWAF in the study area, the average
depth of water in the area is approximately 14m below the surface.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
9
Groundwater quality information is limited and the DWAF was only able to provide detailed data
for two boreholes in the study area, due to this being too small a population to use for statistical
analysis, no conclusions can be drawn from this.
Shoreline Zone Assessment
In this assessment, the true riparian zone, which only develops along rivers, and the shoreline
zone, which has developed along the dam edge have been distinguished apart fm one another.
The latter zone has developed as a result of the increased water availability along the fringes of
the dam. The exception is where the shoreline zone follows tributaries/drainage lines into the
dam. In these cases, the original riparian zone has become enhanced relative to the pre-dam
condition. The shoreline zone is considered to incorporate both areas where no previous wetland
vegetation existed (i.e. where the dam back-flooded into previously terrestrial areas) as well as
where previously narrow riparian areas have become greatly enhanced due to the effects of the
dam.
Recently, the rapidly (primarily residential) development alongside the dam has begun to
encroach on, or in some cases remove, the shoreline vegetation zone. This component of the
Environmental Status Quo study was undertaken to map the current extent of the shoreline
vegetation zone, and to assess its current condition and sensitivity of delineated segments.
Due to the rapid rate of development in the area, a helicopter survey was commissioned to
provide preliminary information on the current extent and condition of the shoreline vegetation
along the edge of the HBPD. This was necessary as, due to the rapid rate of development, even
the most up-to-date maps and orthophoto’s do not reflect the current condition of the shoreline
zone. The information obtained from the helicopter survey, as well as information obtained from
high resolution satellite imagery, enabled preliminary desktop delineation and mapping of
shoreline segments to be undertaken. The shoreline vegetation was mapped using a heads-up
digitizing approach, according to a modified version of the method described by Thompson et al.
(2002). The desktop delineation was then verified and refined using field-based methods.
Segments of the riparian zone were delineated according to patches of similar general vegetation
type and/or physical landscape characteristics. The determination of the Present Ecological State
(PES) and Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) of the shoreline segments was conducted
in accordance with the procedure for determination of Resource Directed Measures for riparian
ecosystems (DWAF, 1999). However, due to the artificial nature of the shoreline zone of the
HBPD, a modified version of the existing scoring methodologies used for Riparian ecosystems
(Kleynhans et al., 2005; DWAF, 1999) was developed. These habitat assessment methods were
modified to consider the artificial state of the shoreline zone. Instead of comparing the current
state of the segment to the reference (historical, unimpacted) condition, reference in this study is
instead made to the modified reference condition (the idealised shoreline vegetation structure
along a dam edge). This modified scoring system is also more liberal than the nationally applied
system of Kleynhans et al. (2005), in that the scoring system developed for the Hartbeespoort
shoreline only considers local importance of habitats, whereas the national system considers
local, regional and national scales of importance. Due to the artificial reference condition
considerations and highly modified habitat (due to the effects of the dam), such large scale
considerations were deemed inappropriate. The more liberal scoring system enabled a wider
range of ecological conditions to be classified, since otherwise all the segments would have been
limited to two or three classes and distinctions between segments (using the national scoring
system) very unclear. Given the anticipated management requirements for this mapping product,
it was thought to rather provide slightly higher resolution of local ecological condition. An “A” class
in the Hartbeespoort shoreline scoring system is approximately equal to a “C” class in the national
system of Kleynhans et al. (2005).
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
10
3.3 Topography
As mentioned in the introduction to this section, the study area falls between and incorporates
portions of two mountain ranges, namely the Witwatersberg and the Magaliesberg. The highest
elevation in the area is 1702m above sea level and is associated with the Magaliesberg range
near the settlement of Remhoogte in the MPNE.
Both the Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg mountain range are associated with the underlying
geology. Weather resistant quartzite of the Magaliesberg Formation and the Daspoort Formation,
as well as andesite and basalt of the Hekpoort Formation within the Pretoria Group of the
Transvaal Sequence, which overlie the softer slates and shales of the Silverton Formation. Thus
the water processes in the area have eroded these softer rocks to form the valley in between the
harder quartzite, andesite and basalt ridges.
3.4 Climatic Conditions
The climatic conditions of the area could be described as temperate receiving in excess of
600mm of rain per annum, with most of the rain falling during the early summer months
(NWDACE, 2002). This is represented in Figure 5 and Figure 6 (SA Weather, 1997).
Hartbeespoort falls within the Highveld Climate Region, characterised by warm summers and mild
winters with frost (van Zyl, 2003). According to van Zyl (2003) rain is mostly produced by
thunderstorms generated during the summer months. An occasional cold front that has moved up
from the south-western area is experienced and can rarely result in snow falls on the higher lying
areas.
o
o
Temperatures in the study area range from extremes of 38.9 C to -6.2 C although average
o
temperatures are in line with a temperate climate. Average summer highs average around 29.6 C
o
o
dipping to 15.5 C at night, whilst typical average winter temperatures range from 23.8 C during
o
the day to 5.4 C at the night. As can be seen in Figure 5, the diurnal range of the study area is
o
o
quite large, averaging 14 C during summer and 18.5 C during the winter months.
Whilst the precipitation of Highveld Climate Region is characterised by thunderstorms, there are
on average only 23 days per year when thunder is recorded in the study area. Hail occurs on
average 3 days per year whilst the annual average rainfall is 617mm. Rain of greater than or
equal to 1mm per day occurs on average 55 days per year.
3.5 Air Quality
Air quality is largely influenced by regional and global atmospheric conditions, thus impacts
associated with air pollutant sources are often felt far away from the source of the pollutant. Thus,
although there are not many air pollutant sources within the study area, air quality may be poor at
times given its relatively close proximity to Gauteng. The distribution of air through the
atmosphere, for instance the dilution and mixing effects of the prevailing winds, temperature and
precipitation as well as the amount of vertical mixing in the troposphere all contribute to the
movement of pollutant particles though the air (NWDACE, 2002).
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
11
Temperature Statistics 1961 - 1985 for Hartebeespoort
45
Highest Recorded
Average Daily Maximum
Average Daily Minimum
Lowest Recorded
Diurnal range
40
35
30
Degrees Celcius
25
20
15
10
5
0
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November December
September
October
November December
-5
-10
Month
Figure 5:
Temperature data for Hartbeespoort
Rainfall data from 1961 - 1985 for Hartebeespoort
140
Average Monthly (mm)
Highest 24 Hour Rainfall (mm)
120
Rainfall in mm
100
80
60
40
20
0
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
Month
Figure 6:
Rainfall data for Hartbeespoort
According to the DEAT’s State of Environment for South Africa (1999), environmental interactions
between the three phases of the atmosphere (solid, liquid and gaseous) results in air quality
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
12
affecting the quality of water, the terrestrial environment and ultimately human health and well
being. An example of this interaction would be the acid rain phenomena that are caused by high
sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitric oxide levels in the atmosphere. Therefore, SO2 and nitric oxide
can cause changes in acidity in the terrestrial environment leading to corrosive effects on
buildings, acidification of soils and water, thereby impacting on ecosystems.
Major air pollutants to be concerned about include the following:
•
The dominant long-lived gases, which affect air quality, include carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), nitrous oxide and chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's). These are global
atmospheric gases which may not have been generated within the study area, or the NW
Province, but will influence the air quality of the study area.
•
Short-lived gases such as nitric oxide and sulphur dioxide have more localised effects
within the southern African region. These gases may have been produced elsewhere on
the sub-continent but can impact on the air quality of the NW Province and the study
area.
•
Radioactive gas emissions such as the Noble gases pose an additional threat to the
environment and to human health (for more information on these please see the
Radioactivity section).
•
The emission of ozone depleting substances (such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's),
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC's) and methyl bromide) poses a threat to the ozone
layer and is hence an issue of global importance.
•
Also of global importance is the emission of greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide
and methane), which contribute to the greenhouse effect by trapping heat within the
atmosphere. South Africa is ranked as the fifteenth largest emitter of greenhouse gases in
the world. This is largely due to South Africa's high coal consumption as an energy
source, which leads to high emissions of carbon dioxide (10 tons per person per year
compared to the global average of 7 tons per person per year).
Little information exists for air quality within the study area, although a project to fill in these gaps
has been commissioned by the NWDACE, Ambient Environmental Monitoring Programme for the
NW Province. This project is running concurrently with this SEA and thus baseline information will
soon be available.
The contributors to the pollutants and driving forces behind these are known in the study area.
Examples of economic activities that contribute to pollutants include industry, mining and mineral
processing, agriculture and tourism. These are point sources of pollution, while the associated
transport industry is a mobile form of pollution source. Urbanisation and population growth are
important social driving forces throughout South Africa and exacerbate the air quality issues, not
only in the study area, but in the NW Province and Southern Africa. These place the natural
environment under pressure by increasing economic activity and the subsequent demand for
energy. The pollutants caused by the generation of electricity from power stations as well as from
motor vehicles, affect the environment.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
13
Table 3:
Pollution sources and associated pollutants found in the NW Province (Source:
NWDACE, 2002).
Pollution Source
Industry (including mineral
processing)
Mining activities
Agriculture
Transport
Human settlements
Regional air movements
between provinces
Associated Pollutants
Sulphur dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Carbon monoxide
Carbon dioxide
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Heavy metals
Total suspended particulates
Odours & Noise
Particulate matter
Asbestos fibres
Heavy metals (e.g. Vanadium, Chrome)
Odours & Noise
Methane
Fungal spores, pollen
Odours & Noise
Particulate matter
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Lead
Noise
Nitrogen oxides
Carbon oxides
Particulate matter
Sulphur dioxide
Smoke
Carbon oxides
Sulphur dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Carbon dioxide
Methane
Volatile organic compounds
3.6 Ecological Systems
3.6.1
Shoreline Zone
As mentioned above, in this assessment we have distinguished between the true riparian zone,
which only develops along rivers, and the shoreline zone, which has developed along the dam
edge. We consider the shoreline zone to incorporate both areas where no previous wetland
vegetation existed (i.e. where the dam back-flooded into previously terrestrial areas) as well as
where previously narrow riparian areas have become greatly enhanced due to the effects of the
dam. This distinction was necessary because it was not appropriate to apply the existing scoring
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
14
methodologies (Kleynhans et al., 2005; DWAF, 1999) used for Riparian ecosystems to these
artificial shoreline zones. A modified procedure for scoring the shoreline zones was thus
developed and applied in this study.
3.6.1.1 Extent and distribution of shoreline zone
Extent
The methods for the rigorous delineation of true riparian environments in South Africa are poorly
developed. Whilst recommendations exist that no development occur below the 1:100 year flood
line, the riparian-associated vegetation often extends beyond the 1:100 year floodline, but
objective delineation procedures for such zones are yet to be fully developed, tested and formally
accepted by DWAF. In the case of dam margin environments, the 1:100 year floodline may be
equal to the maximum water level of the reservoir. Any “riparian” or wetland vegetation or zones
that may develop along dam margins will certainly extend beyond the 1:100 year floodline, and as
such be afforded little protection under current legislation. Additionally, such zones are artificial –
a consequence of increased water availability due to the effects of the dam – and therefore their
relative value in the landscape may be debateable which may be further discussed by the key
stakeholders and IAP’s.
Shoreline vegetation condition has been assessed in this study using a zone extending 50 metres
inland from the high water level on the dam margin – i.e. shoreline zone extent (width) has been
set at 50 metres. This is an arbitrarily defined width of the buffer zone, was applied consistently
along the shoreline zone to assess the shoreline zone vegetation and ecological importance of
the habitat within that window. We would recommend that consideration be given to larger extents
or buffers in segments with high PES/EIS scores, but such a decision would be at the discretion
of the authorities. Whatever decisions are reached regarding such buffer zones, the objectives for
having them should be clearly stated (for example, to protect and provide a buffer between new
developments and “A” PES shoreline zone segments which are extremely locally important
environments), and the procedure should be consistently applied.
Since there have clearly been cases where developments have occurred without any buffer zone
provision, future buffer zone restrictions on new developments may be difficult to enforce.
Distribution
Although there are extensive shallow areas in the dam, the high nutrient levels in the dam
promote algal blooms, and the associated high turbidity suppresses submerged aquatic
macrophytes. At the time of the survey, the occurrence of this suite of plants was noted to be
extremely limited.
Along the shoreline and in tributary estuaries at the dam edge, the near permanent water
availability and high nutrient loads have promoted the establishment of emergent macrophytes
such as the bulrush Typha capensis and the common reed Phragmites australis. These tend to
form large monospecific stands along the waters edge. Large stands of the invasive
Giant/Spanish Reed (Arundo donax) have also formed in places, but these tend to occur higher
up the banks and not generally at the waters edge. Beyond this zone there may be a transition to
a sedge or grass-sedge zone, or to a wooded zone.
Such a transition (from emergent macrophytes, through to the grass-sedge zone and/or wooded
zone) does not however occur in all places along the dam, but instead represents the “ideal”
habitat conditions at the dam edge (Figure 7). The helicopter survey and field assessments
revealed that the extent of wetland vegetation along the shoreline zone is generally limited in
most segments along the dam edge. The extent of wetland vegetation has been reduced through
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
15
bank and shoreline engineering, development, and is controlled through land use practices
(particularly mowing and landscaping immediately adjacent to the waters edge). Overall the
extent of wetland vegetation is also influenced by the potential of the landscape setting to support
wetland vegetation – steeper banks generally supporting less than shallow-sloping banks, but this
can be altered through bank engineering.
3.6.1.2 Shoreline habitat description
In sections of the shoreline where wetland vegetation has been allowed to develop, this has
occurred in response water availability through four possible routes, namely:
•
Sub-surface seepage from the dam into the low lying areas alongside the waters edge.
•
Inundation along the shoreline as a result of the dam.
•
Flooding of the dam.
•
Seepage and channelling of water from adjacent lands.
Despite the proliferation of alien plant species in the dam and surrounding landscape, many
indigenous aquatic plant species still occur in the area. The establishment of many of these
species has been promoted by the artificially wet conditions created by the dam. Remnant
riparian tree flora also exists along the banks of the major tributaries entering the dam, and in
some cases the extent and condition of these zones has been enhanced by the dam effects. The
plant species list (Appendix 1) is not meant to be comprehensive, but instead to provide an
indication of the dominant and common plant species encountered in the shoreline zone. The late
sampling season imposed as a result of the timing of this study is likely to have resulted in several
non-perennial species, or those difficult to identify when not in flower, being excluded from the list
below.
Figure 7:
Idealised shoreline vegetation incorporating a broad zone of emergent macrophytes
(foreground) and well-developed woody zone (background).
Although the shoreline wetland habitat has been artificially created, it does perform a function in
that it acts as a buffer, protecting the shoreline from wave erosion as well as creating vegetated
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
16
habitat for biota along the edges of the dam, including many fish species; certain bird species
such as weavers, widows, bishops, warblers, rails, geese, ducks and crakes; mongoose; several
amphibian species and rodents.
The shoreline vegetation may also help limit sedimentation of the dam by trapping sediment
washed into the dam from the adjacent agricultural lands and small streams which flow into the
dam. They may also help to improve water quality, but the extent of this is unclear and has not
yet been quantified. However, considering both the sources and volumes of water and sediment
supplied to the dam, it is unlikely that this is a major beneficial function of these shoreline habitats.
3.6.1.3 Shoreline habitat classification
EcoStatus is the “totality of the features and characteristics of the river and its riparian areas that
bear upon its ability to support an appropriate natural flora and fauna and its capacity to provide a
variety of goods and services” Kleynhans et al. (2005, p. 5). In the context of this study, we are
considering the EcoStatus of the shoreline zone primarily in terms of wetland vegetation condition
and the value of the zone to avifauna, particularly waterfowl.
Present Ecological State
Classification of the Present Ecological State of the delineated segments of the shoreline zone
was undertaken using a modified present ecological state classification method (Table 4). The
extent and distribution of the PES classes along the shoreline of the HBPD is shown in Figure 8.
The majority of the dam’s shoreline is in a “C” class, and there are several “B” class segments. “A”
class segments are almost exclusively confined to the riparian zones of the tributaries that enter
the dam, whereas numerous D and E, and in some extreme cases even F, class segments are
associated with highly developed sections of the shoreline. Examples of the shoreline classes are
provided in Table 4.
Overall the shoreline zone is moderately to highly degraded, particularly when one considers that
the modified scoring method applied in this study is liberal. Generally there is a very limited extent
of wetland vegetation associated with the margin of the dam. However, there are some parts of
shoreline which are in good ecological condition, and these should be prioritised in future.
Segments in the C and D classes could be focussed on for remedial action, in an attempt to
improve their ecological condition by half a class or a full class. Those segments in classes E and
F are generally regarded as being beyond reasonable, affordable rehabilitation measures.
Ecological Importance and Sensitivity
Classification of the Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) of the delineated segments of the
shoreline zone was undertaken using a modified EIS classification method. The extent and
distribution of the PES classes along the shoreline of the HBPD is shown in Figure 9.
As with the PES classification, the majority of the dam’s shoreline is in an EIS “C” class, although
there are several “B” class segments. Again the “A” class segments are mostly confined to the
riparian zones of the tributaries, whereas the numerous D and E class segments are associated
with highly developed sections of the shoreline. It should be noted that the EIS scoring is rated
according to local importance, and as such generally reflects a much higher score than if the
national scoring criteria (for riparian areas) was applied. This points again to the moderately to
highly degraded state of the shoreline environment, and generally poor quality of biophysical
habitat that remains; hence the low ecological importance score. Despite this, there are pockets
of moderately to very highly ecologically important segments of shoreline that remain. These high
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
17
scoring EIS segments should be prioritized in future planning initiatives to ensure that the
shoreline environment does not degrade further.
Table 4:
The Present Ecological State (PES) class and description thereof for the Hartbeespoort
shoreline scoring system.
Present
Ecological
State
(PES)
Class
Description of habitat condition
“A”
Modified reference condition (idealised dam
edge vegetation structure). No “A” class
segments exist along the shoreline within the
HBPD area, although there are some “A” class
segments of riparian zones along the tributaries
feeding into the dam.
“B”
Few modifications/differences from the modified
reference condition. A small change in habitats
and biota may have taken place but the
ecosystem functions are essentially the same.
“C”
Moderately altered from the reference condition.
Loss and change of habitat and biota have
occurred, but the basic ecosystem functions are
still predominantly similar to the modified
reference condition.
“D”
Largely altered from the reference condition. A
large loss of habitat, biota and basic ecosystem
functions has occurred, relative to the modified
reference state.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
Example of shoreline zone in that class
18
“E”
Seriously modified. The loss of habitat, biota and
basic ecosystem functions is extensive, relative
to the modified reference state.
“F”
Critically / Extremely modified. Modifications
have reached a critical level and the system has
been modified completely with an almost
complete loss of habitat and biota. In the worst
instances the basic ecosystem functions have
been destroyed and the changes are
irreversible.
Table 5:
The Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) class and description thereof for the
Hartbeespoort shoreline scoring system.
Ecological
Importance and
Sensitivity (EIS)
Class
Description of ecological importance
“A”
Extremely important at the local scale
“B”
Highly important at the local scale
“C”
Moderately important at the local scale
“D”
Low importance at the local scale
“E”
Very low importance at the local scale
“F”
Not important
3.6.1.4 Conclusion
Although the most common PES and EIS scores for the Hartbeespoort shoreline zone are “C”
classes (moderately altered and moderately important respectively), the modified scoring system
developed for the shoreline assessment is a liberally scoring system developed for the local scale
only. If the national scoring system (for riparian areas) had been applied, the average scores
would have been at least one class lower. This shows that the shoreline zone is generally
moderately to highly degraded, and the shoreline environment on average of a low to moderate
ecological importance.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
19
F
E/F
E
Dam
D
C/D
C
B/C
B
A/B
A
PES
<all other values>
Legend
Figure 8:
/B
C
C
/D
C
/E
F
F
D
m
a
D
E
0 0.5 1
2
3
30 October 2006
The Present Ecological State (PES) classification of the delineated segments around the HBPD.
< Double-click to enter text >
>
s
e
u
lra
v
th
o
<
A
A
/B
B
4
Kilometers
PES of the shoreline of Hartbeespoort Dam
n
g
L
d
e
S
E
P
¯
20
F
E
D
C
B/C
B
A/B
A
EIS
Figure 9:
<all other values>
Legend
E
F
/B
C
C
D
0 0.5 1
2
3
4
30 October 2006
The Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) classification of the delineated segments around the HBPD.
< Double-click to enter text >
>
se
u
lra
vth
o
<
A
A
/B
B
Kilometers
EIS of the shoreline of Hartbeespoort Dam
IE
S
n
g
L
d
e
¯
21
There are, however, numerous pockets of extremely (A) to highly (B) ecologically important
shoreline segments, and several A and B PES classified segments. Such results enable these
areas to be prioritised in strategic planning and conservation activities, since these pockets of
shoreline zone are likely to be highly important for the survival of certain species of fauna within
the surrounding degraded environment. As such, the conservation status of these “good”
segments may be even slightly higher than what would normally be the case in a less degraded
environment.
With respect to the shoreline zone generally, it is suggested that, a good vegetation zone be
allowed to develop wherever possible in order to act as a buffer against wave erosion of the
shoreline; to provide habitat for fauna and flora; and to improve the aesthetic quality of the dam.
Such well-vegetated margins, and particularly in the case of the drainage line estuaries, may also
play albeit a small role in trapping sediment (and associated nutrients) coming into the dam.
3.6.1.5 Recommendations
The prioritisation of the “A” and “B” class areas of the shoreline should be undertaken to ensure
that these “good condition” locally ecologically important pockets of shoreline vegetation and
habitat are not permitted to degrade. It is also additionally recommended that shoreline zone
enhancement or improvement programmes be considered in those segments classified in the “C”
and “D” classes. Such programmes could encourage the reshaping of banks and planting of the
shoreline areas to create improved PES and EIS conditions in those segments. This would
improve the functionality, value to wildlife and aesthetics of the shoreline zone. Such activities
would be in line with aspects of the proposed rehabilitation plans for the HBPD.
3.7 Ecological Systems (Terrestrial)
A number of distinct ecological systems occur in the study area. These include mountainous
areas, streams and river courses, dams, indigenous woodland and grassland floral communities.
These ecological systems are observed in formally proclaimed Nature Reserves, a proclaimed
Protected Natural Environment and zoned Open Spaces. In addition, ecological systems also
occur in areas that are presently natural due to the absence of development.
Ecological systems are present along the many streams and drainage lines such as the
Jukskeispruit, Magaliesriver, Kareespruit, Crocodile River, Leeuspruit, Scheerpoortriver,
Swartspruit, and Witwatersrandspruit that occur in the study area. Sensitive ecological and
natural systems also occur within the boundaries of the MPNE to be managed by GDACE and
NWDACE.
3.7.1
Identified Sensitive and Natural Areas
The most important natural areas of the study area are described below. This includes a detailed
description of the MPNE that plays an important landscape role in the study area. Some of the
existing concerns associated with the various areas described below, have been included into this
section.
The Magaliesberg range extends in an arc from just south of Rustenburg in the west to HBPD
near Pretoria in the east. Peaks in the west include Tshufi (1,592 m) and Rustenburgkloof
(1,688 m), in the centre Nooitgedacht (1,851 m) and Doornhoek (1,786 m), and in the east
Versigtig (1,563 m), Myoko (1,523 m) and Sun Glory (1,601 m) are found in the vicinity of HBPD.
This mountain range stretches 125 km over two provinces, from Tshwane in the east (Gauteng
Province) to Rustenburg in the west (NW Province).
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
22
The Magaliesberg was first proclaimed in 1977 as a “Nature Area” in terms of the Physical
Planning Act of 1967. The management of Nature Areas was transferred to the DEAT in terms of
the Environment Conservation Act 100 of 1982. In 1989, a Nature Area was referred to as a
“Protected Natural Environment” and it became the responsibility of the provincial authorities.
A Protected Natural Environment is proclaimed if the premier is convinced that such a
proclamation will “substantially promote the preservation of specific ecological processes, natural
systems, natural beauty or species of indigenous wildlife or the preservation of biotic diversity in
general” (Section 16. Environment Conservation Act 1989 (Act 73 of 1989)). The boundaries of
the MPNE have specifically been demarcated and described. In addition, regulations are
promulgated in terms of Administrator’s Notice 127 in 1994 where certain development activities
are restricted in the MPNE, if not authorised by the provincial authority. These include:
•
Erection of any structure or building which is higher than 2m, or enlarge existing
structures or buildings.
•
Install any water-, fuel- or mineral pipeline.
•
Construct roads or erect powerlines, canals, reservoirs, cableways or structures for radioand telecommunication purposes.
•
Initiate any excavation of any nature.
•
Construct any waste disposal site or dump any litter or waste.
•
Introduce hiking trails for outdoor recreation purposes.
•
Make any name, message or sign of lime or paint on the ground.
The negative effects of urban and other development along the boundaries of a nature area have
often been described in literature. This is commonly referred to as the “edge effect”. In the study
area, the MPNE is located in close proximity to urban development nodes and the pressures on
the boundaries of the MPNE are clearly noticeable. Such impacts include increase in
development and associated infrastructure, increase in pipelines and reservoirs abstracting water
from mountain streams, increased hiking trails and increase in informal access roads (often 4X4
tracks) into the nature area. In addition, the altered natural environments increase the invasion by
exotic vegetation around the edges of the MPNE, which impacts on the natural/indigenous flora
and fauna.
The areas proclaimed as PNE are mostly privately owned and no formal fence clearly demarcates
the MPNE boundary. This adds to the ad hoc management and activities especially on the edges
of the MPNE.
It is a very unique mountain range of great ecological, geological and cultural importance and
value. In order to preserve this uniqueness of the mountain, a section of the Magaliesberg was
proclaimed a Protected Natural Environment (PNE) in Administrator’s Notice 126 of 4 May 1994
in accordance with Section 16 of the Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act 73 of 1989).
The Witwatersberg range runs parallel and to the south east of the Magaliesberg, extending from
the town of Magaliesburg in the west to HBPD in the east. The Ben-Tor Gloster (1,674 m),
Hartebeeshoek (1,585 m) and Skeerpoort (1,544 m) peaks dominate the Witwatersberg. Several
large rivers have their headwaters in these mountains, including the Crocodile River, Sterkstroom
River, Magaliesriver and Skeerpoortriver.
3
2
The HBPD is a 195 x 106 m , 20 km storage reservoir constructed during the 1920s and
completed in 1925. Principal use of the impounded water is for irrigation (ca. 80%), with lesser
uses for domestic consumption and compensation flows. The HBPD is located in the Crocodile
(West) Marico River catchment, downstream of the confluence of the Crocodile with the Jukskei
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
23
and Hennops Rivers that drain the eastern area of the catchment. 90% of the annual inflow to the
reservoir is derived from the Crocodile River (Harding et al., 2004).
Within the study area, the Hartbeespoort Nature Reserve and the Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve are
found. Hartbeespoort Nature Reserve is located around the Dam and is interspersed with
numerous urban areas while the Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve is situated approximately 3km northeast of Schoemansville which is located on the northern bank of the Dam.
The Magaliesriver flows into the HBPD from a westerly direction. It drains numerous areas of the
southern hills of the eastern section of the Magaliesberg range as well as the north-western edge
of the Witwatersberg range.
The Jukskeispruit flows in a northerly direction into the Crocodile River that in turn drains northerly
into HBPD. Excessive nutrient loading, originating largely as point source (wastewater treatment
works) discharges into the Jukskei River, have resulted in the reservoir being hypertrophic (=
excessively nutrient enriched) for several decades. Very high loads (>200 metric tonnes of
phosphorus as P) are discharged annually to the dam, and a combination of nutrient availability
and biophysical factors support sustained dominance by very dense aggregations of
cyanobacteria (= blue-green algae). This sustained dominance by this division of algae produces
a characteristic suite of user-related problems that have been prevalent in HBPD since the early
1970s (Harding et al., 2004).
The Kareespruit drains in a northerly direction, away from the study area and connects to the
Crocodile River north of HBPD which flows north towards the Limpopo Province.
2
3
-1
The Crocodile River (catchment area = 29 349 km , MAR = 550 million m a ) flows from the
northern edge of the Witwatersrand to the Limpopo. It is controlled by the Hartbeespoort and
Roodekoppies dams on the main river, as well as several smaller dams on the tributaries. The
volume of water in the river is showing a steady increase as a result of return flows from the
Witwatersrand urban area. The Crocodile River drains a large, highly industrialised and urbanised
area and hence the return flows are largely of treated sewage and industrial effluents, and is
subject to high levels of pollution (Walmsley et al., 1999).
The Leeuspruit drains the south-eastern section of the Witwatersberg mountain range, flowing
north and entering HBPD in the southern region.
The Swartspruit drains the eastern areas adjacent to the HBPD including some northern slopes of
the Witwatersberg range.
The Scheerpoort River originates in the Witwatersberg range and flows in a north-westerly
direction to drain into the Magaliesriver. The Witwatersrandspruit (situated to the south of the
study area) drains into the Scheerpoortriver. The vegetation along this river is predominantly
natural.
3.7.2
Fauna and Flora
There is lack of comprehensive information on biodiversity of the NW Province. Subsequently, a
provincial biodiversity study namely the NW Province Biodiversity Site Inventory and Database
development (SEF, 2003) funded by the NW Province and the Finnish Government, was initiated
and prepared by Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd. The aim of this project is to measure
biodiversity by determining the “where” rather than the “how” of in situ conservation action and to
assist the NW Provincial Government in assessing areas of high biodiversity for sustainable
management.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
24
The objectives of the project are as follows:
•
To deliver a user-friendly product, which is easily updateable with information received
from other projects within the province;
•
To make the product available to local and provincial authorities and key stakeholders.
The findings of this study indicate that the north-eastern section of the NW Province generally
represents a higher biodiversity (“hyperdiversity”) than the western and southern sections and as
such have been labelled as a critically important area. The Hartbeespoort Study area falls into the
higher biodiversity areas of the province.
The Biodiversity and Site Inventory Database Development (SEF, 2003) is an invaluable resource
management tool, which should be consulted during all developments in the province.
The general ecological sensitivity of the study area based on broad land use is represented in
Figure 10 (pg 33).
3.7.2.1 Fauna
The NW Province Biodiversity Inventory has been referenced for some of the data provided
below. In addition, local knowledge was tapped from naturalists in the area. Information on Red
Data species (species with high conservation value as determined by the International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN)) has also been highlighted, however particular Red Data species
are not named as this information is not for dissemination to the general public. Those wishing to
obtain this information need to consult the provincial authorities for species lists.
Herpetofauna
A total of 143 species of herpetofauna occur in the NW Province. This is considered high as it is
approximately one third of the total number of species that occur in South Africa. The Red Data
herpetofauna recorded for the NW Province are listed in Table 6.
Table 6:
Red Data herpetofauna species recorded for the NW Province.
Scientific name
English name
Status
Python natalensis
Southern African Python
Vulnerable
Homoroselaps dorsalis
Striped Harlequin Snake
Rare
Dalophia pistillum
Blunt-tailed worm lizard
Data Deficient
Crocodylus niloticus
Nile Crocodile
Vulnerable
Pyxicephalus adspersus
Giant Bullfrog
Near Threatened
The baseline data of herpetofauna within the NW Province is not considered sufficient at present.
It is recommended that a detailed and long term investigation into the species diversity within the
study area be undertaken to ensure that better information resources are at hand for future
decisions regarding development in the area. As mentioned in the NW Biodiversity Site Inventory
and Database Development (SEF, 2003), a dedicated team of three field workers, collecting using
conventional trapping techniques (drift fences with pitfalls and funnel traps) and night collecting
could make drastic improvements on the database.
Lepidoptera
Two hundred and twenty one (221) species of Lepidoptera have been confirmed to occur in the
NW Province (SEF, 2003). Red Data species are listed in Table 7. The specific Red Data
conservation status was not always known.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
25
Table 7:
Red Data Lepidoptera species.
Scientific name
Habitat
Conservation Status
Acraea (Acreae) machequena Grose Smith
Bushveld
Red Data
Aloeides dentatis maseruna Riley
Grassland
Vulnerable
Tuxentius melaena griqua Trimen & Bowker
Riparian
Red Data
Lepidochrysops hypopolia Trimen & Bowker
Grassland
Red Data
Lepidochrysops praeterita Swanepoel
Grassland
Red Data
Spialia paula Higgins
Bushveld
Red Data
Metisella meninx (Trimen)
Riparian
Red Data
Andronymus neander neander F Nomad Dart
Bushveld
Red Data
Gegenes hottentota Latreille
Riparian
Vulnerable
Platylesches dolomitica Henning
Grassland
Vulnerable
Neita neita Wallengren
Bushveld
Red Data
Mammals
1
Sixty seven (67) mammal species have been recorded on the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve ,
which include Red Data species such as those listed in Table 8. No Red Data mammal
information is available for the study area however due to the similarities and close proximity of
the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve and many parts of the study area, the species listed in Table 8
should be investigated for their presence during any development of natural open space.
Table 8:
Red Data species recorded in the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve:
Scientific Name
English Name
Status
Order Insectivora
Myosorex varius
Forest Shrew
Uncertain
Suncus infinitesimus
Least dwarf shrew
I
Atelerix frontalis
South African hedgehog
R
Proteles cristatus
Aardwolf
R
Hyaena brunnea
Brown hyaena
R
Panthera pardus
Leopard
R
Mellivora capensis
Honey badger
V
Oreotragus oreotragus
Klipspringer
Uncertain
Ourebia ourebi
Oribi
V
Order Carnivora
Order Artiodactyla
IUCN Red Data status: I – Indeterminate, R – Rare, V – Vulnerable, Uncertain –
status uncertain
3.7.2.2 Flora
A large part of the study area comprises protected areas (MPNE) as well as some developed
residential and business areas particularly along the banks of the HBPD, and this has led to
1
Personal comm. Vanessa Schnautz. Escapes.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
26
fragmentation of the existing ecological systems surrounding the dam. Several areas are
designated as protected areas surrounding the dam and form part of the HBPD Nature Reserve.
Areas that are still maintaining significant natural vegetation include the Magaliesberg and
Witwatersberg, fragmented parts of steeper hills and slopes in and around the urban areas as
well as certain riverine vegetation. The continued pressure of urban development around the
dam due to its high tourism potential is putting pressure on the existing habitats and will ultimately
lead to a loss in species richness in the area if not suitably managed. The streams and rivers
within the study area are characterized by a strong representation of indigenous riverine
vegetation however exotic species encroachment in these areas is increasing due to the
increased human pressure.
Regional vegetation
The study area is divided into three major vegetation types namely Clay Thorn Bushveld located
in the northern section, Mixed Bushveld covering the central section (from east to west)
encompassing the Magaliesburg mountains and Rocky Highveld Grassland in the southern
2
section . Clay Thorn Bushveld is dominated by various Acacia species as well as other woody
species such as Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata), Sicklebush (Dichrostachys cinerea) and
Wild Raisin (Grewia flava). Only 0.93% of this vegetation type is formally conserved in South
Africa. The economic uses occurring in this vegetation type are crops, production of wheat, maize
and sunflowers as well as livestock farming. Mixed Bushveld is characterized by woody species
such as Red Bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum), Common hook-thorn (Acacia caffra),
Sicklebush (Dichrostachys cinerea), Live-long (Lannea discolor), Maroela (Sclerocarrya birrea)
and various Grewia species. Only 3.05% of this vegetation type is formally conserved in South
Africa. The economic uses in this vegetation type are cattle and game farming, cultivated crops
and ecotourism. A few of the characteristic grass species of the Rocky Highveld Grassland are
Giant Speargrass (Trachypogon spicatus), Broadleaf Bluestem (Diheteropogon amplectens), Red
Autumngrass (Schizachyrium sanguineum), Andropogon schirensis and Loudetia simplex while
many dicotyledonous forbs occur in this vegetation type, including Wild Sweetpea (Sphenostylis
angustifolia), Rough-hair Sage (Acrotome hispida), and Broom Ragwort (Senecio venosus) to
name but a few. The woody vegetation, of Zambezian and Afromontane affinity, occur as
sheltered islands of temperate mountain bushveld within the Grassland Biome. Typical species
include Common Hook Thorn (Acacia caffra), numerous Rhus species, Ehretia rigida, Maytenus
heterophylla, Euclea crispa and numerous other species. Only 1.38% of this vegetation type is
formally conserved in South Africa. This vegetation is highly threatened in the Gauteng area due
to urbanization, industrialization and mining, and to a lesser degree, agriculture. The economic
uses occurring in this vegetation type are crop farming (mainly maize) which is limited due to the
shallow, rocky soils as well as limited grazing by cattle due to the dominance of sour grass
species.
Red Data Species
No formal and updated list of Red Data floral species along with their localities presently exist for
the study area within the NW Province. The Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation
and Environment (GDACE) does possess Red Data information for the two southern quarter
degree grids that fall within the province of Gauteng, however this information may not be
published as per their request. A list of 8 species has been recorded in the quarter degree
2527DD while 5 species are recorded in the grid 2527DC.
2
Low, A.B. and Rebelo, A.G. (eds) Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Dept. of Environmental Affairs and
Tourism, Pretoria.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
27
This has been perceived as an important gap in information available that will impact on
development in the area.
Historic records of Red Data species recorded in the province (Table 9) are as follows:
Table 9:
Red Data floral species.
Plant species
Habitat
Aloe peglerae Endangered
Rocky places, often on gravelly quartzite, confined mainly to the
Magaliesberg range, usually on the northern slopes and summit;
scanty grassland, very little soil.
Delosperma leendertzia Insufficiently
known
Uncertain
Erythrophysa transvaalensis Rare
Stony hillsides and rocky koppies
Eucomis autumnalis Subsp. clavata
Insufficiently known
Uncertain
Frithia pulchra Rare
Myrsine pillansii Rare
Confined to the summit of the Magaliesberg range, growing in areas
of white quartz pebbles and difficult to locate if not in flower.
Wooded ravines. In low scrub or bush, or along stream at the
margins of evergreen forest.
Nuxia glomerata Rare - Near
Threatened in Gauteng
On open hillsides, rocky western slopes or in deep rocky ravines
Rhynchosia nitens Insufficiently known Least concern in
Gauteng
Grassland and woodland. Usually on rocky areas and crests
Tristachya biseriata Insufficiently known
- Least concern in
Gauteng
Shallow stony soils on hillsides and rocky outcrops
Protected species
A list of species in need of special protection is listed in the Transvaal Ordinance of 1983. Many of
these species occur in the study area and would need a special permit in terms of the ordinance
for removal or transportation of such species. A list of species that could potentially occur in the
study area could not be sourced at the time of finalizing this report.
Table 10:
List of plants Declared to be Protected in terms of Section 86(1) (a) of Schedule 11 of
the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance 12 of 1983.
Common Name
Scientific Name
All species of tree moss
Genera Porothamnium, Pilotrichella and Papillaria
All species of ferns other than the bracken fern
Division Pteridophyta, except Pteridium aquilinum
All species of yellowwood
Genus Podocarpus
All species of wild cypress
Genus Widdringtonia
Borassus palm
Borassus flabellifer
All species of arum lilies
Genus Zantedeschia
All species of Agapanthus except improved plants
Genus Agapanthus
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
28
All species of aloes except all species not occurring in
the Transvaal and the following species: A. aculeata, A.
ammophila, A.barbertoniae, A. castanea, A. davjana, A. Genus Aloe
globuligemma, A. lutescens, A. marlothii, A. mutans, A.
parvibracteata, A. transvaalensis, A.wickensii
All species of Chortolirion
Genus Chortolirion
All species of Dracaena
Genus Dracaena
All species of pineapple flowers
Genus Eucomis
All species of Galtonia
Genus Galtonia
All species of Gasteria
Genus Gasteria
All species of flame lilies
Genus Gloriosa
All species of Haworthia
Genus Haworthia
All species of red-hot-pokers
Genus Kniphofia
All species of Christmas bells
Genus Littonia
Blue squill
Scilla natalensis
Ground lily
Ammocharis coranica
Fire lily
Anoiganthus breviflorus
Pink brunsvigia
Brunvigia radulosa
All species of Clivia
Genus Clivia
All species of Crinum
Genus Crinum
All species of fire lily
Genus Cyrtanthus
All species of paintbrush
Genus Haemanthus including Scadoxus
All species of Nerine
Genus Nerine
All species of elephant's foot
Genus Dioscorea
All species of Babiana
Genus Babiana
Wild montbretia
Crocosmia paniculata
All species of harebells
Genus Dierama
All species of wild iris
Genus Dietes
All species of gladiolus except improved plants
Genus Gladiolus
All species of Lapeirousia
Genus Lapeirousia
River lily
Schizostylis coccinea
All species of Watsonia except improved plants
Genus Watsonia
Wild banana
Ensete ventricosum
Transvaal strelitzia
Strelitzia caudata
Wild ginger
Siphonochilus aetheopicus and
Burmannia madagascariensis
All species of orchids
Family ORCHIDACEAE
Pincushion
Leucospermum gerrardii
All species of Protea
Genus Protea
Stone plant
Frithia pulchra
All species of stone plants
Gebus Lithops
All species of water lilies
Genus Nymphaea and Brassenia schreberi
Wonder plant
Tinospora fragosum
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
29
Black stinkwood
Ocotea bullata
Stinkwood
Ocotea kenyensis
Transvaal teak (kiaat)
Pterocarpus angolensis
The following species of Euphorbia: E. barnardii, E.
grandialata, E. knobelii, E. perangusta, E. restricta, E.
rowlandii, E. tortirama, E. waterbergensis
Genus Euphorbia
Tambootie
Spirostachys africana
Baobab
Adansonia digitata
All species of Begonia
Genus Begonia
All species of cabbage tree
Genus Cussonia
Heath
Erica oatesii
Red hairy heath
Erica cerinthoides
Heath
Erica alopecurus
Big leaf (wild tobacco)
Anthocleista grandiflora
Impala lily
Adenium multiflorum
Impala lily
Adenium oleifolium
Impala lily
Adenium swazicum
Kudu lily
Pachypodium saundersii
All species of Brachystelma
Genus Brachystelma
All species of Caralluma
Genus Caralluma
All species of Ceropegia
Genus Ceropegia
All species of Tavaresia
Genus Tavaresia
All species of Duvalia
Genus Duvalia
All species of Huernia and Huerniopsis
Genera Huernia and Huerniopsis
All species of Riocreuxia
Genus Riocreuxia
All species of Stapelia
Genus Stapelia
All species of Stultitia
Genus Stultitia
All species of cape primula
Genus Streptocarpus
Barberton daisy except for improved plants
Gerbera jamesonii
SPECIALLY PROTECTED PLANTS
List of Specially Protected Plants in terms of Section 86(1) (b) of Schedule 12 of the Transvaal
Nature Conservation Ordinance 12 of 1983
Common Name
All species of cycads
Scientific Name
Genus Encephalartos
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
30
THREATENED PLANTS OF THE TRANSVAAL
Endangered Species
Family
Scientific Name
Zamiaceae
Encephalartos cupidus
Common Name
Encephalartos inopinus
Lydenburg Cycad
Encephalartos laevifolius
Kaapsche Hoop Cycad
Orchidaceae
Nervilia purpurata
Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia barnardii
Euphorbia perangusta
Vulnerable Species
Family
Scientific Name
Common Name
Zamiaceae
Encephalartos eugene-maraisii
Waterberg Cycad
Encephalartos heenanii
Wooly Cycad
Encephalartos humilis
Encephalartos ngoyanus
Liliaceae
Encephalartos paucidentatus
Barberton Cycad
Aloe albida
White Grass Aloe
Aloe monotropa
Iridaceae
Gladeolus pretoriensis
Proteaceae
Protea curvata
Crassulaceae
Kalanchoe crundallii
Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia groenewaldii
Barberton Lowveld Protea
Euphorbia knobelii
Euphorbia rowlandii
Euphorbia tortirama
Canellaceae
Warburgia salutaris
Asclepiadaceae
Orbea maculata
Pepper-bark Tree
Stapelia clavicorona
Huernia nouhuysii
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
31
Exotic / Alien Species
A variety of exotic species occur in the study area. Examples of such species as well as the
habitats they are likely to invade are listed below in Table 11:
Table 11:
Exotic species potentially occurring in the study area and management category.
Habitats affected Categories
Common name
Scientific name
R
S
OS
G
Cat
Tecoma stans
Shinus terrabithifolius
Black locust
Robinia pseudoacaia
*
Black Wattle
Acacia mearnsii
*
Bugweed
Solanum mauritianum
*
Castor-oil plant
Ricinus communis
*
Common mulberry
Morus alba
*
Giant Reed
Arundo donax
*
Green wattle
Acacia decurrens
*
Grey poplar
Populus X canescens
*
Jacaranda
Jacaranda mimosifolia
*
Kikuyu grass
Pennisetum clandestinum
*
Lantana
Lantana camara
*
Queen of the night
Cereus peruvianus
Red sesbania
Sesbania punicea
Sweet prickly pear
Opuntia ficus-indica
Syringa
Melia azedarach
*
*
*
3
Syringa
Melia azedarach
*
*
*
3
Weeping willow
Salix babylonica
*
Yellow firethorn
Pyracantha angustifolia
2
*
*
*
2
1
2
*
*
*
3
1
*
2
2
*
3
*
2
*
1
*
1
*
1
*
*
1
2
*
3
R- Riverine, wetland, drainage lines, S – Savanna, OS – Urban Open space, G – Grassland, rocky hillsides,
Cat – Category in terms of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act 43 of 1983).
Category 1 plants – are prohibited and must be controlled. Category 2 plants (commercially used
plants) may be grown in demarcated areas providing that there is a permit and that steps are
taken to prevent their spread. Category 3 (ornamentally used plants) - may no longer be planted;
existing plants may remain, as long as all reasonable steps are taken to prevent the spreading
there-of, except within the flood line of watercourses and wetland.
3.8 Heritage Resources
A full inventory of all the heritage resources in the study area is included in Appendix 2 and
represented in Figure 11.
The Hartbeespoort area reflects most of the types and ranges of heritage resources that are
identified in Section 3 of the National Heritage Resources Act (No 25 of 1999).
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
32
Status Quo Report
Figure 10:
30 October 2006
Ecological sensitivity based on broad land use classification.
33
Status Quo Report
Figure 11:
30 October 2006
Heritage assets in the study area.
34
Heritage is the sum total of sites of geological, zoological, botanical and historical importance,
national monuments, historic buildings and structures, works of art, literature and music, oral
traditions and museum collections and their documentation, which provides the basis for a shared
culture and creativity. Heritage does not stand-alone but forms an integral and indispensable part
of the environment. These assets are also known as cultural and natural resources.
Cultural heritage resources can be defined as buildings, structures, objects, sites and landscapes.
They may include natural properties such as plantations, gardens or parks on sites or
domesticated animals (sheep, cattle, dogs, etc.) and plants (maize, millet, etc.). Heritage
resources can be visible (sites, buildings, structures etc) or intangible (oral histories, legends,
myths etc), as well as movable (objects) or immovable (buildings, structures, sites, precincts).
Living heritage resources may comprise of customs, behaviour and traditions that are continued
from immemorial or which are re-enacted as ways of the past.
The cultural heritage of the HBPD is primarily associated with human interventions and creations
from earliest times until the recent past. These heritage resources are non-renewable and
therefore vulnerable to environmental and social pressures.
3.9 Tourism Situation
3.9.1
Tourism in South Africa and the NW Province
The latest data indicates that South Africa received 7,4 million foreign visitors during 2005. This
represents growth of 10,3% over 2004. African arrivals account for the majority of the visitors (5,4
million or 73,7% of total foreign visitors). African arrivals recorded a 13,3% growth compared to
2004, while overseas arrivals grew by 2,9%. Growth during 2005 was much higher than the
growth rates achieved during 2004, indicating that 2005 was a better year for foreign arrivals to
the country.
SA Tourism’s 2004 quarterly reports on foreign tourism to the NW Province shows that 9,5% of all
foreign arrivals to South Africa visited NW, equivalent to 633 395 foreign visitors during 2004. This
represents a 21,6% decline in the share of visitors to South Africa that NW attracts, and a 15%
decline in visitor numbers compared to 2003. NW’s share of foreign visitors increased from 9,8%
to 11,5% in 2003, only to drop to 9,5% again in 2004. Visitors from Africa account for 70,3% of all
the foreign visitors to NW – less than for South Africa as a whole. According to 2003 data, the
two major sources of domestic tourists to the NW are from the NW Province (41,9%) and
Gauteng Province (40,5%). .
For an in-depth background to international and domestic tourism in South Africa and the NW
Province, refer to Appendix 3.
Based on the analysis of national and provincial data, the profile of foreign and domestic tourists
to NW is summarised in Table 12.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
35
Table 12:
Profile of foreign and domestic tourists to the NW Province.
Foreign
Domestic
Botswana
North West
Lesotho
Gauteng
UK
Limpopo
USA
Free State
Holiday & Shopping
VFR
3,1 nights
6,3 nights
Origin
Purpose of Visit
Length of stay
Shopping
Social
Social
Shopping – for personal use
Nightlife
Night Life
Wildlife
Shopping – for business use
7,4 million (2005)
49,3 million (2003)
Activity preference
Number of
South Africa
3.9.2
Visitors
to/in
Tourism Supply in the Study Area
3.9.2.1 Background
Figure 12 provides a definition of a tourism product for the purposes of this study. This definition
is derived from international research, and is based on what the tourist buys.
A TOURISM PRODUCT
A TOURISM PRODUCT
anensemble
ensembleofofTANGIBLE
TANGIBLEand
andINTANGIBLE
INTANGIBLEcomponents
componentsincluding:
including:
IsIsan
Tourism resources (natural and cultural assets) and attractions
Tourism resources (natural and cultural assets) and attractions
++
Basic Facilities and Infrastructure (airports, roads, trains etc.)
Basic Facilities and Infrastructure (airports, roads, trains etc.)
++
Tourism
Infrastructure
and
Services
(accommodation,catering,
catering,
Tourism Infrastructure and Services (accommodation,
transport)
transport)
++
Leisure activities (things to do and see)
Leisure activities (things to do and see)
++
Image
and
Symbolic
Values
Image and Symbolic Values
(todo
dowith
withdevelopment,
development,lifestyle,
lifestyle,self-esteem,
self-esteem,status,
status,etc.)
etc.)
(to
whichoffers
offersBENEFITS
BENEFITSthat
thatmay
maydraw
drawcertain
certaintype
typeofofconsumers
consumersas
asitit
which
appeals
to
their
specific
travel
MOTIVATIONS
and
NEEDS
appeals to their specific travel MOTIVATIONS and NEEDS
Figure 12:
Tourism product definition.
For the purpose of this report a portrayal of the study area’s ‘Sense of Place’ has been
developed. Following this, the “tourism product elements” have been identified that constitute the
existing and potential tourism products of the study area. Finally the tourism products that are
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
36
currently being sold in the study area (i.e. existing product) as well as the potential future tourism
products that could be sold in the study area are listed.
3.9.2.2 Sense of Place
The HBPD and the impressive Magaliesberg mountain range contribute to the study area’s
unique ‘sense of place’. To describe the sense of place, concepts have been employed to
describe noteworthy elements experienced within the area, including points of orientation,
gateways, significant districts/domains; and paths or routes. An area’s sense of place is
particularly important from a tourism perspective as it reflects on the nature of a place (i.e. what
inherent/unique characteristics make the study area Hartbeespoort) and how this place is
experienced. This description is by no means conclusive and final, but identifies the main unique
elements that contribute to the tourism asset base in the study area.
The study area is a rural destination, however, the large number of residential estates dotted
around the dam lends a certain urban feel to the area.
Points of Orientation
The main point of orientation for the study area is the HBPD, which is an instantly recognisable
feature of the natural/cultural landscape. A series of koppies and ridges form conspicuous natural
landmarks in the study area. The main topographical landmark is the Magaliesberg ridge, which
forms a natural northern boundary to the study area. The various other mountains and koppies
(such as Renosterkop) form the natural boundary to the south.
The dam wall is a man-made structure which punctuates the natural feature of the Crocodile River
gorge. Other man-made structures are also evident contributing to the study area’s sense of place
including the Pelindaba facility, the cable-way, the arts and craft market and the variety of
residential estates dotted around the dam.
Gateways
Gateways are generally formed through a combination of natural and man made elements and
reflect entrance points into areas. From a tourism perspective they form unique points that
present themselves as access points to a range of new experiences or a new domain and are
often defined by breaks or poorts in the natural landscape where rivers and movement routes are
able to pass through. Significant gateways in the Magaliesberg include Silkaatsnek (en route to
Brits), the HBPD wall (en route to Rustenburg) and Kommandosnek (crossing the Magaliesberg
on the Kosmos side of the dam). Other natural gateways include the pass through the
Skurweberg (R511) and the pass towards Broederstroom (R512).
Whilst these gateways are in part naturally defined, from a tourism perspective other gateways to
the area exist related to the transport infrastructure. These gateways include airports (such as
Lanseria which is located outside the study area), rail stations (such as the various railway
stations dotted through the area) and potentially even toll plazas (such as the Pelindaba toll plaza
on the N4).
Paths and Routes
Paths can also contribute to an area’s sense of place, identify and legibility. From a tourism
perspective, clearly defined routes add to the ability of people to navigate through unfamiliar
areas. Various routes could be identified as significant, particularly those connecting major points
of attraction. In terms of ‘place-making’ or experiential, perhaps the most significant path or route
within the study area is the route crossing the HBPD wall through the tunnel.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
37
3.9.2.3 Hartbeespoort Area Tourism Product Elements
Tourism product elements (TPE) in the study area have been categorised into broad categories
namely:
•
Nature;
•
Cultural & Heritage;
•
Accommodation;
•
Eating-out Facilities; and
•
Other attractions.
These product elements can be assembled into products, which the current and potential future
tourists will buy when travelling to the study area for a holiday (Table 13). Some of the TPEs listed
do not necessarily fall within the boundaries of the study area, but are relevant to the study area.
Table 13:
Tourism product elements of the Hartbeespoort area.
Tourism Product Element
Nature
Hartbeespoort Dam
Magaliesberg Mountains &
Hartbeespoort Dam Cableway
Nature Reserves
Hartbeespoort Dam Snake &
Animal Park and Aquarium
Margaret Roberts Herb Centre
De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife
Centre
The Elephant Sanctuary
Cultural and
Heritage
Lesedi Cultural Village
Craft and Country Markets
Art Galleries and other Craft
Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij
Accommod
ation
B&Bs
Guest Houses
Lodges
Resorts
Self-Catering
Second home estates
Eating-out
Facilities
Other
Eating-Out Facilities
Adventure Activities
Events
Conferencing & Weddings
Other
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
38
Nature-based Tourism Product Elements
The study area has various natural attractions including:
•
The HBPD;
•
The Magaliesberg Mountains and HBPD Cableway;
•
Nature reserves;
•
HBPD Snake and Animal Park & Aquarium;
•
Margaret Roberts Herb Centre;
•
De Wildt Cheetah & Wildlife Centre; and
•
The Elephant Sanctuary.
Hartbeespoort Dam
The most significant nature based TPEs is the HBPD and the nature reserve surrounding it. The
dam attracts both day and overnight visitors that make use of the dam’s water for a variety of
water-based recreational activities, including sailing and water skiing. The scenic nature of the
dam has also attracted a large number of Gauteng based second-home owners to the area.
Magaliesberg Mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam Cableway
The Magaliesberg ridge forms a natural northern boundary for the HPBD area. It heightens the
area’s scenic beauty and also provides an opportunity for adventure activities such as hiking and
rock climbing. The Hartbeespoort cable way is constructed on the southern slopes of the
Magaliesberg. The cableway was erected in 1970 at 1,600 metres above sea level with a total of
2,3 kilometres of cable.
Nature Reserves
There are a number of nature reserves in the area, as well as just outside the area (such as the
Cradle of Human Kind Nature Reserve). The nature reserves include:
•
Vergenoeg Nature Reserve, known for its colony of endangered Cape Vultures.
•
Glen Afric Country Lodge, with 32 game species including lion, elephant, buffalo, cheetah
and hippo.
•
Hartland Mountain Lodge and Bush Camp, located in the Crocodile River gorge.
•
Leopard Lodge, with a variety of plains game.
•
Amazingwe Bush Lodge.
•
Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve.
Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park and Aquarium
The Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park features a variety of big cats, chimpanzees and other
animals, and many of these animals are used in television advertisements and movies. The Park
is open daily and offers demonstrations of snakes and seals on Sundays and public holidays. It
further offers visitors the opportunity to cruise on the HBPD. The aquarium also has a pet shop
where visitors can buy indigenous fish.
Margaret Roberts Herb Centre
Visitors to the herb centre can learn all about herbs, including their culinary, aromatic and healing
attributes.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
39
De Wildt Cheetah & Centre
Though the De Wildt centre falls outside the study area, it has been included in the tourism supply
assessment due to its proximity and its importance as a tourist attraction. De Wildt was
established in 1971, and is now known world-wide for its efforts in the conservation of cheetahs
and other endangered wildlife. Accommodation is offered in the recently opened 9-room lodge as
well as tours of the cheetah and wild dog research facility and team building programmes.
The Elephant Sanctuary
This sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to engage with African elephants. A number of tours
are offered, ranging from a short (couple of hours) to all-day tours. Visitors can learn about
African elephants, and even have the opportunity to ride on an African elephant.
Cultural Based Tourism Product Elements
The study area has various cultural based attractions including:
•
Lesedi Cultural Village;
•
Craft and Country Markets;
•
Art Galleries and other crafts; and
•
Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij.
Lesedi Cultural Village
The Lesedi Cultural Village represents the cultures of the Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho and Pedi. The
experience includes a visit to traditional homesteads, singing and dancing, as well as a craft
market. Lesedi also offers accommodation the according to the various cultures, as well as a
restaurant and conference facilities.
Craft and Country Markets
There are a number of craft markets at or near the R104/R512 crossing. These craft markets
provide a variety of mainly African crafts. They are conveniently situated en route to Sun City, and
many tour buses stop here to provide their passengers with an opportunity to buy souvenirs. In
addition, there is the Welwitchia Country Market, which is focused on country products.
Art Galleries and Other Crafts
The Hartbeespoort area is home to a number of art galleries of well-known artists who mainly
specialise in bronze wildlife sculptures. Other crafts that can be found in the area include pottery,
cheese making and interior decorating.
Van Gaalen Kaasmaakerij
This authentic Dutch cheese making farm was established in 1990 and today offers visitors the
opportunity to taste and buy more than 20 different Dutch-style cheeses.
Historical/Heritage Based Tourism Product Elements
The Hartbeespoort Environment and Heritage Association (HEHA) with funding from the
Madibeng Local Municipality, has compiled a register of heritage sites in and around the
Hartbeespoort area. The register includes sites of historical, geological, archaeological and artistic
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
40
interest. Some of the sites date back to the Iron Age era, while some represent the history of the
Voortrekkers. There are also a number of sites dating back to the Anglo Boer war, and the time
when the HBPD was built by poor-white labourers in the early 1920s.
Tourism Accommodation
The formal accommodation establishments in the study area are summarised in Table 14. The
number of rooms at all the establishments could not be verified. Therefore, averages have been
applied where applicable in order to calculate the total number of rooms, units and beds in the
study area.
Table 14:
Accommodation establishments in the Hartbeespoort area (GTA, 2006)
Number of
Establishments
No of
Rooms/Units
Total No of Beds
B&B, Guest Houses and
Guest Farms
22
214
702
Lodges
26
418
1102
Resorts
7
258
642
Self-Catering
19
113
308
Total
74
1 002
2 753
The majority of accommodation establishments are located close to the dam. These
establishments comprise a large number of guesthouses, bed and breakfast establishments and
lodges, as well as a number of self-catering establishments and holiday resorts.
There are 22 Bed and Breakfasts, Guest Farm or Guest House establishments within the study
area, which offer 214 rooms and units sold on a bed & breakfast or self-catering basis. The total
number of beds offered by the Bed and Breakfast, Guest Farm or Guest House establishments is
702.
There are 7 resorts in the area, offering 258 rooms/units with a total of 642 beds mainly on a selfcatering basis, while the 19 self-catering establishments offer 113 rooms/units and 308 beds.
In general those accommodation establishments that are graded are of a 3-4 star standard. The
majority of establishments are not graded.
Eating-Out Facilities
The Hartbeespoort area boasts a relatively large number of restaurants and pubs, many of which
provide entertainment and conferencing facilities as well. There are a number of franchise
operations to be found in the town of Hartbeespoort, but there are also a number of unique
eating-out places available, such as the Strawberry Basket and Gustav Preller Plaaskombuis.
There are also a number of coffee shops, the most famous of which is Tan’ Malie se Winkel near
the dam wall.
The Hartbeespoort area boasts between 45 and 50 eating-out facilities, including pubs,
restaurants and coffee shops.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
41
Other Tourism Product Elements
Other tourism product elements in the study area include various tourism attractions, which have
not been listed above. These include:
•
Adventure and recreation activities, including:
o
Boating and jet-skiing
o
Paragliding;
o
Horse riding;
o
Abseiling;
o
Rock climbing;
o
Kloofing;
o
Caving;
o
Fishing;
o
Hunting;
o
Golf;
o
Bird watching;
o
River rafting;
o
4 x 4 routes;
o
Hiking.
•
Events;
•
Conferencing and Weddings; and
•
Other
Adventure
A distinction can be made between soft and hard adventure as detailed in Table 15.
Table 15:
Soft versus hard adventure activities.
Soft Adventure
Hard Adventure
Little physical risk
Previous experience required
Little or no experience required
High risk
More convenience (accommodation, meals)
For the physically and mentally fit
Many activities can be the same as Hard
adventure but less demanding
Intimate experience with the environment and
culture at the destination
Wide range of activities and experiences for
the alternative traveller
Prepared to stand all weather conditions,
sleeping arrangements and dietary restrictions
Examples: Horseback riding, sea kayaking,
bicycle touring, hiking, educational
adventures, sailing, safari, soft overland
adventures, etc.
Examples: climbing expeditions, level V river
rafting, arduous treks, white water kayaking,
mountain biking etc.
Primary research indicates that tourism product owners are offering a combination of soft and
hard adventure activities in the study area. The tourism elements are represented in Figure 13.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
42
1
Nature
Status Quo Report
2
3c
7
1
Culture
2
2
3d
Figure 13:
Other
4
3e
2
4
3b
2
3
30 October 2006
Tourism sites in the study area.
1
3
3a
3
5
6
Nature
1. Hartbeespoort Dam
2. Magaliesberg Mountains & Cableway
3. Nature Reserves
a. Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve
b. Glenafric
c. Vergenoeg
d. Hartland
e. Amazingwe
4. Hartbeespoort Snake & Animal Park
5. Margaret Roberts Herb centre
6. De Wildt Cheetah Centre
7. Elephant Sanctuary
Culture-based
1. Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij
2. Craft and Country Markets
3. Art Galleries & other crafts
4. Lesedi Cultural Village
Other:
43
Events
The most significant event in the study area is the ‘Old Mutual Om die Dam Ultra Marathon’,
which is held in March every year. It started in 1991, and is a very popular race on the annual
marathon calendar in South Africa.
Various smaller, localised events are also held at the various conference and event venues in the
area.
Conferences & Weddings
The scenic nature of the area, as well as its proximity to Gauteng, makes it a popular destination
for conferences and weddings. A number of the resorts and lodges in the area offer conference
and wedding facilities.
Other
The Monate Citrus Cellar is located on the R104 towards Rustenburg. It is a unique facility that
manufactures alcoholic citrus beverages. Visitors can tour the facility and taste the various
products on offer. The Tangaroa Strawberry farm offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own
strawberries from September to December.
3.9.2.4 Current and Potential Tourism Products
The tourism products currently on offer in the study area are fragmented and not necessarily
targeted at specific markets. Considering the number and variety of tourism product elements
indicated above, we believe that there is potential to package some of the various elements in a
more market-oriented way, and to develop others further. The following tourism products could be
offered in the study area:
•
General leisure trips.
•
Leisure shopping trips.
•
Water-based scenic experiences.
•
Water-based sport/adventure experiences.
•
Country/out of town scenic experiences.
•
Conferences.
•
Weddings.
•
General nature experiences.
•
Wildlife experiences.
•
Cultural experiences.
•
Adventure experiences.
•
Socialising with family and friends.
All of the above can be for the day, or overnight.
3.9.2.5 New Tourism Developments
There are a number of new tourism developments being planned for the HBPD area, which
involve leisure activities, restaurants, conference facilities and hotels. These developments,
however, are in the planning phases and information is limited at this stage. These planned
developments are on both public and private land.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
44
3.9.3
Tourism Demand
3.9.3.1 Background
The lack of tourism statistics on a municipal level led the tourism specialist (Grant Thornton and
Associates) to conduct an analysis of tourism in the study area. This analysis is based on primary
research conducted amongst accommodation establishments in the study area.
Initially, the number of tourists was quantified utilising formal accommodation such as
guesthouses, self-catering accommodation, etc. This figure was adjusted for with the visitors to
friends and family (VFR) who utilise non-formal accommodation i.e. staying with friends and
family in private homes. This provides an estimate of the total number of tourists to the study
area.
The methodology is explained in more detail below.
3.9.3.2 Tourism Demand from Overnight Visitors
Formal Accommodation
As indicated in the Tourism Supply section the primary research identified 74 establishments
providing 2,086 beds in the study area (Table 16). These establishments offer 815 rooms and
units (i.e. chalets, cottages, etc).
Table 16:
Accommodation establishments in the Hartbeespoort area (GTA, 2006).
Number of
Establishments
No of
Rooms/Units
Total No of
Beds
B&B, Guest Houses
and Guest Farms
22
188
614
Lodges
26
287
653
Resorts
7
233
545
Self-Catering
19
107
274
Total
74
815
2 086
The accommodation establishments were surveyed for the actual average annual occupancy rate
for 2005 (Table 17). Utilising this average annual occupancy rate, the number of rooms and units
sold in 2005 were estimated. Around 140 000 room and 71 000 unit nights were sold.
Table 17:
Accommodation establishments roomnights sold (GTA, 2006).
Occupancy
Accommodation Sold
Room Occ
in 2005
Unit Occ in
2005
Room nights
2005
Unit nights
Guest Farms
70%
70%
40 318
7 665
Lodges
58%
70%
49 098
14 053
Resorts
90%
90%
35 872
40 734
Self-Catering
60%
60%
14 653
8 760
Total
70%
73%
139 941
71 212
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
2005
45
Based on the double occupancy of the various establishments surveyed, the number of bed
nights sold in the study area in 2005 was estimated (Table 18). Around 244 200 room bednights
and 160 500 unit bednights were sold during 2005.
Table 18:
Accommodation establishments bednights sold (GTA, 2006).
Double Occupancy
Bed Nights Sold
Rooms in
2004
Units in
2004
Rooms
Units
2004
2004
Guest Farms
45%
70%
58 461
13 031
Lodges
45%
100%
71 192
28 105
Resorts
150%
150%
89 681
101 835
Self-Catering
70%
100%
24 910
17 520
Total
78%
105%
244 244
160 491
Based on the share of bednights sold to foreign and domestic tourists as well as the length of stay
of these tourists, the number of tourists utilising formal accommodation in the study area in 2005
was projected (see Table 19). The study area received 154 000 tourists staying in formal
3
accommodation in 2005, split between 30% foreign tourists (or 46 000 people) and 70%
domestic tourists (or 108 000 people).
Table 19:
Breakdown of bednights sold (formal accommodation only) (GTA, 2006).
Total Bed
nights
Sold
Bed nights
sold to
Foreign
Tourists
Bed nights
Sold to
Domestic
Tourists
Total
Number of
Tourists
Number
of
Foreign
Tourists
Number of
Domestic
Tourists
71 491
17 873
53 619
27 302
6 327
20 975
Lodges
99 297
23 169
76 128
37 983
8 202
29 781
Resorts
191 516
76 607
114 909
72 070
27 117
44 952
Self-Catering
42 430
12 729
29 701
16 125
4 506
11 619
Total
404 734
130 378
274 357
153 479
46 151
107 328
B&B, Guest
Houses and
Guest Farms
The analysis of the bed nights sold to tourists in to the study area can be utilised to project the
total number of overnight tourists to the study area if VFR visitors are included. It is not
recognised that some visitors to friends and family utilise formal accommodation as the majority of
these visitors stay with the friends and family visited and are thus not included in an analysis of
formal bed nights sold.
Statistics from SA Tourism indicate that 21,3% of foreign arrivals to the NW are visitors to friends
and family. It is assumed that this figure is similar for the Hartbeespoort area as an approximation
of 20%. Based on these assumptions, it is projected that 46,000 foreign tourists should be taken
as 80% of the total foreign tourist market.
3
Excluding Camping
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
46
Taking into account the number of foreign VFR visitors, it is estimated that the HBPD area
received around 57,700 overnight foreign tourists in 2005.
On a similar basis, statistics reveal that 73,6% of the domestic tourists to the NW are VFR visitors.
If it is assumed that the HBPD area attracts a smaller percentage of visitors for VFR purposes
(25%) then it is projected that the study area received around 143,100 domestic overnight visitors
during 2005.
Second Homes
The HBPD area is a very popular second home destination among Gauteng residents. Many of
these second home owners stay in Gauteng during the week, and move to Hartbeespoort for the
weekend, long weekends and holidays.
The number of visitors to second homes has been quantified, as these would be considered
overnight visitors to the study area. It has been assumed that second home visitors are all
domestic visitors.
It is estimated that 91% of stands, 2,151 stands out of a total of 2,354 stands, in new and existing
residential estates are sold. It is assumed that 70% of these stands are used to build second
homes, and as a result there are an estimated 1,506 second homes in the Hartbeespoort area.
Based on information gathered during the research (GTA, 2006), it has been assumed that
second home owners visit their homes on average 3 times a month, and on average 4 people visit
the home every time. It is further estimated that there is an average stay of 2,5 nights, resulting in
a total of 542,000 annual bednights and 217,000 annual visitors to the area as a result of second
home ownership.
3.9.3.3 Tourism Demand from Day Visitors
The study area’s proximity to Gauteng makes the HBPD area an attractive day visitor destination
for Gauteng residents. The area is further en route to Sun City, which is a popular day trip
destination for foreign visitors staying in Gauteng.
It is estimated that on an annual basis, approximately 1,3 million day visitors come to the study
area for leisure, business (including conferences) and to participate in various activities. It is
estimated that about 18% of these visitors are foreign (mostly those foreign visitors that stop at
the craft markets en route to Sun City) and 82% are domestic.
3.9.3.4 Trade Interviews
A number of tour operators and professional conference organisers were interviewed in order to
better understand their utilisation of the HBPD area, as well as their perceptions of the area as a
tourist destination.
Professional Conference Organisers
A number of conference organisers, based in Gauteng, were interviewed. They do not make use
of the conference venues in the study area on a frequent basis, but when they do it is usually as a
result of a client request or a good past experience. Mount Amanzi and Lesedi are mostly utilised
for weekday conferences and dinner cruises on the dam are also booked.
The interviews indicate that the dangerous road leading to the study area (most of them
recommend the use of the R511 to their clients), as well as the traffic congestion are their primary
concerns. Further issues are the limited number of conference venues in the area, as well as the
limited shopping opportunities available to visitors.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
47
The perception is that the area is very scenic, but should be more actively marketed, especially
due to its close proximity to Gauteng.
Tour Operators
A number of tour operators based in Gauteng who do tours to Sun City were interviewed. These
operators generally pass through the Hartbeespoort area on a weekly basis, and use it as a
shopping stop-over.
Their main complaints are the dangerous roads, as well as the increased traffic congestion. Some
of them indicate that the markets are becoming too commercialised.
The operators generally believe that the study area has much to offer in terms of scenic beauty,
its proximity to Gauteng and the variety of things to see and do in the area, but they believe that
the area is not currently well marketed, and as a result many people do not know what is on offer
in the area.
3.9.3.5 Conclusion
Hartbeespoort attracts approximately 11,5% of the overnight market of visitors to North West
Province and 0,7% of overnight visitors to South Africa (Table 20).
Table 20:
Hartbeespoort market share (total market) (GTA, 2006; SA Tourism).
Foreign
Domestic
Total
Number of Overnight Visitors
57 700
178 900
236 600
Number of Day Visitors
230 800
1 079 800
1 310 600
N/A
216 800
216 800
288 500
1 475 500
1 764 000
633 400
3 million
6,6 million
9,1%
12%
11,5%
6,7 million
49,3 million
56 million
0,9%
0,7%
0,7%
Number of Second Home Overnight
Visitors
Total Tourist Market to Hartbeespoort
Overnight Visitors to North West
(foreign – 2004, domestic – 2003)
Hartbeespoort overnight Market as % of
North West overnight visitors
Overnight Visitors to South Africa
(foreign – 2004, domestic – 2003)
Hartbeespoort overnight Market as % of
South African overnight visitors
3.9.4
Tourism Development Potential and Gap Analysis
This section provides a SWOT analysis for tourism in the HBPD area. It further highlights the
various gaps in the tourism industry and the tourism development potential / opportunities for the
area.
3.9.4.1 SWOT Analysis
Based on the analysis of the tourism supply and demand in the Hartbeespoort area,
strengths/weaknesses and opportunities/threats have been identified. These are summarised in
Table 21 below.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
48
Table 21:
SWOT Analysis.
Strengths
Weaknesses
The following strengths have been identified:
The main weaknesses affecting tourism to and in the
study area are:
The Hartbeespoort Dam is relatively well
known;
The area has a major waterbody which is
always a tourism and recreation draw-card
The roads leading to the area – especially
the R511 – are poorly maintained;
High traffic volumes on these routes
contributes to the roads being considered
dangerous;
The study area is very scenic, especially
around the dam;
The study area borders and is very close to
Gauteng;
There is no active destination marketing
organization to promote the destination;
The study area is en route to Sun City from
Johannesburg;
There are a number of routes providing
access to the study area;
There is a lack of capacity in the local
municipality for tourism - officers who are
responsible for tourism also have other
portfolios;
The study area is close to the Cradle of
Humankind;
There is limited public access to the dam as
a result of the large number of residential
estates around the dam;
The countryside atmosphere of much of the
study area is appealing to city-dwellers;
Poor tourism signage (and signage in
general);
The area is
destination.
Very
few
of
the
accommodation
establishments in the area are graded, and
as a result there is uncertainty about the
standard of accommodation in the area;
There is a lack of transformation in the
tourism sector, as well as a lack of
involvement of the black community in
tourism and the tourism attractions of the
area – apart from their involvement at the
craft markets. Perceived overcrowding
around the dam due to the density of
development
Poor dam water quality
a
well-known
wedding
Opportunities
Threats
The opportunities identified have been listed below.
In general opportunities are often the reverse of
weaknesses, i.e. addressing a weakness becomes
an opportunity.
Strengthening the linkages with other
tourist destinations such as Sun City and
the Cradle of Humankind, as well as
Magaliesburg;
Coordinated marketing of the area under
one cohesive brand
Better development coordination – a
development masterplan for the area
The railway running along the southern
side of the Hartbeespoort dam, linking
Pretoria and Magaliesburg, could be used
Status Quo Report
Threats are those factors that could potentially
negatively impact on tourism to the area.
Lack of resources and funding for tourism
development from the municipality where
tourism has to compete for funding with
‘more important’ budget items such as
education, health and housing;
Overdevelopment
Increased congestion
On ongoing water quality problems or
perceptions of same
30 October 2006
49
for tourism purposes;
Strengthening existing tourism products
and developing new tourism products,
particularly around history and heritage;
More varied and publicly accessible use of
the Hartbeespoort Dam and the Crocodile
River below the dam wall;
The nature reserves under municipal
control could be developed and better
marketed as tourism destinations;
The nature/countryside atmosphere of the
study area could be capitalized upon for
the development of health spas;
Eco-tourism activities could be developed
in the Magaliesberg Mountains.
The development of routes and activity
trails throughout the area
3.9.4.2 Gap Analysis and Tourism Development Potential of the Study Area
Based on the supply and demand analysis, the following gaps and potential for tourism
development exist within the study area:
•
Direct Access to the Dam:
A lack of direct public access to the dam limits the development potential of the dam for
tourism purposes. Visitors should be able to:
•
o
Dine at restaurants/coffee shops/cocktail bars overlooking the dam (this can also
be from locations in the mountains above the dam, on either side)
o
Enjoy cruises on the dam
o
Partake in water-based activities without necessarily having their own equipment
or access to a private launching site
Conference Facilities:
There are limited conferencing facilities in the Hartbeespoort area, with Mount Amanzi
and Lesedi being the main venues used. Indications from professional conference
organisers are that companies are looking for conferencing venues close-by (within two
hours travel from Gauteng), but at the same time they need new and different locations to
host their conferences.
•
Railway:
There is potential to make use of the railway for tourism purposes:
•
o
The railway offers a link between Magaliesburg and Pretoria, and follows a rather
scenic route along the HBPD.
o
The various stations along the route can be developed as tourist attractions with
shops/craft markets/coffee shops/restaurants, etc. These should be accessible
both by road and rail
Eco-Tourism:
Eco-tourism activities can be developed in the public nature reserves and along the
Crocodile River, e.g. hiking, mountaineering, horse riding, mountain biking, etc.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
50
•
Health Spas:
The natural beauty of the area can be capitalised upon for the development of health
spas (Mangwanani – along the Hennops River, just outside the study area – is one of the
most successful day spas in South Africa)
•
Routes:
There is an opportunity to develop various tourism routes and trails in the area. This could
include roads, nature trails and water-based routes.
•
Marketing:
Proper destination marketing for the area is lacking at present, as identified by a number
of people. This is something that should be addressed in order to attract more visitors to
the area, and to position the area appropriately in the marketplace.
•
Packaging:
Though there are a number of things to see and do in the area, these are not always
packaged in such a way that it is easy for tourists to ‘buy’ an experience that includes a
wide variety of things. Therefore proper packaging of existing and potential new tourism
products is imperative in developing the area as a tourist destination.
The development of the area for tourism should take into consideration that there are a
large number of residents/second-home residents in the area that should also be able to
make use of the facilities/activities developed for tourists.
3.9.5
Assessment of Supportive Environment for Tourism in the Study Area
This section provides a high-level assessment of the supportive aspects for the tourism industry in
the Hartbeespoort area.
3.9.5.1 Infrastructure
The large number of residential estates in the area impacts on the basic infrastructure. There is
more traffic on the roads and the water, electricity and sanitation use demand has increased
dramatically in the last few years. Further, a number of the residential estates also have golf
courses, which impact heavily on the water resources.
Water and Sanitation
The 2003 Madibeng Integrated Development Plan (IDP) review identifies the water and sanitation
situation in the area as concerning. In many of the rural areas French drainage systems are being
used that could negatively affect the ground water, and the need for waterborne sewerage
systems has been identified. A water master plan developed in 2003 identified significant water
and sanitation backlogs for the Hartbeespoort area. In addition, the water purification plant
capacity will need to be increased.
Capacity constraints are further negatively affected as a result of the increased number of
residential estates being developed in the area. These capacity constraints can negatively impact
on the area as a tourist destination.
The current water quality of the HBPD is such that water-based activities such as water- and jetskiing are health risks, which impacts negatively on the ability of the area to attract leisure visitors.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
51
Electricity
The availability of electricity in the study area could become a concern with the increasing number
of residential developments in the area. This could negatively affect tourism if not addressed. The
rural areas generally do not have electricity.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications is generally available throughout the study area, though in certain areas,
cellphone reception is poor. The quality of rural telephone lines is also poor.
This has a significant impact on tourism, as increased use of the Internet for bookings and
information requires better quality internet access. Also, most people have cellphones, and
tourists should have signals in order to contact someone in the case of getting lost or in an
emergency.
Roads & Access
There are a number of access routes to the study area, which results in good overall access to
the area. However, the quality of roads is quite poor in certain areas, especially along the R511
from Gauteng, though all of the roads are tarred. The majority of the tourist attractions in the study
area are accessible by tar roads.
Signage is a major issue related to roads and access. Signage in the study area is inconsistent,
and does not provide an indication of which destinations are reachable via a particular road (e.g.
none of the road signs through the Hartbeespoort area indicate that these roads can be used to
go to Sun City, for example). This can be very confusing for visitors.
Tourism signage is also inconsistent, with many product owners putting up their own signs.
Transportation
There is no scheduled public transport system available to the study area from Gauteng, Brits or
Rustenburg, though a number of tour operators travel through the study area en route to Sun City.
There are railway lines along the southern dam which connect the study area to Pretoria and
Magaliesberg, though no scheduled passenger services run on this line.
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including police, fire fighting, ambulances and medical services and
hospitals, is generally available from Brits. There is a police station available locally in the study
area.
Emergency services should be available in order to ensure the safety and security of visitors.
Soft Infrastructure
Soft infrastructure, such as local government, publicity associations, etc. is not very supportive of
the tourism industry. The Madibeng Local Municipality has only recently embarked on a tourism
planning exercise, and the only local tourism information offices are operated by the private
sector.
The study area’s proximity to Gauteng results in a large number of supplies for the tourism
industry being sourced in Gauteng. Many of the crafts on sale at the craft markets originate from
elsewhere in Africa. This results in significant economic leakages from the area. However, as a
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
52
result of the increase in residential estates in the area, more and more supplies are available
within Hartbeespoort.
The training infrastructure for tourism in the study area is underdeveloped, and operators rely on
training providers in Gauteng to address their needs.
3.9.5.2 Marketing
The lack of an integrated tourism plan for the study area has resulted in no co-ordinated
destination marketing to draw visitors to the study area. Product owners and event organisers
generally do their own marketing, but there is no co-ordination among them to enhance the
destination’s ability to attract visitors. Further, the government-owned and managed tourist
attractions are generally not marketed at all, resulting in very low business levels.
However, there are a number of websites that market the study area, providing a range of
information on the study area, including places of interest, accommodation, food and
entertainment, businesses, etc. Many of the tourism product owners in the area also have their
own websites.
3.9.5.3 Institutional Aspects
There is no dedicated tourism department/division within the Madibeng local municipality that
carries responsibility for tourism and tourism development in the study area. As mentioned above,
there is no co-ordinated destination marketing done for the study area, and this is largely due to
the fact that there is no dedicated body responsible for tourism marketing of the area.
There are two privately run information offices located at the Engen garages at the intersection of
the R104 and the R512, but there is nothing elsewhere in the study area.
There are further a number of private associations active in the area, such as the Hartbeespoort
Environment and Heritage Association.
The provincial tourism and parks board is not active in the area, despite the HBPD being one of
the tourism icons of the province.
3.10 Safety and Security
The issues of safety and security are difficult to quantify, however for the purpose of this report,
an analysis of the crime figures for the area will be investigated. According to the SAPS, there is
only one police station within the study area, the Hartbeespoort Police Station. The figures for
crime in the area are listed in Table 22 below.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
53
Table 22:
Crime statistics for Hartbeespoort Police Station (SAPS, 2006).
Hartbeespoort Police Station
Crime
2001/2002
2002/2003
2003/2004
2004/2005
Murder
5
9
5
8
Rape
26
25
31
26
Attempted murder
21
9
10
10
Assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily
harm
117
93
103
122
Common assault
183
179
172
200
Robbery with aggravating circumstances
44
46
45
74
Common robbery
44
30
62
60
Indecent assault
3
4
12
4
Kidnapping
1
0
1
0
Abduction
2
0
2
0
Neglect and ill-treatment of children
2
0
4
2
Culpable homicide
11
17
17
21
Public violence
0
0
0
0
7
5
3
11
Truck hijacking (Sub Category of Robbery
Aggravating)
1
1
1
1
Bank robbery (Sub Category of Robbery
Aggravating)
0
1
0
0
Robbery of cash in transit (Sub Category of
Robbery Aggravating)
0
1
0
0
House robbery (Sub Category of Robbery
Aggravating)
-
1
2
2
Business robbery (Sub Category of Robbery
Aggravating)
-
1
1
0
Arson
8
12
3
6
Malicious damage to property
84
80
87
93
Crimen Injuria
21
24
19
26
Burglary at residential premises
411
403
395
564
Burglary at business premises
68
63
45
45
Theft of motor vehicle and motorcycle
111
62
58
91
Theft out of or from motor vehicle
125
87
75
134
Stock theft
3
2
8
4
Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition
7
4
6
3
Drug related crime
15
12
11
25
Carjacking (Sub
Aggravating)
Category
of
Robbery
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
8
9
5
15
All theft not mentioned elsewhere
540
512
566
502
Commercial Crime
50
37
72
47
Shoplifting
9
3
13
6
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
54
The average statistics for the Marico Area are indicated in Table 23.
Table 23:
Average crime statistics for the Marico area (SAPS, 2006).
Marico Area Average
Crime
Murder
2001/2002
2002/2003
2003/2004
2004/2005
18
17
17
15
Rape
74
73
71
71
Attempted murder
42
38
33
25
harm
300
325
299
274
Common assault
262
278
262
244
122
129
139
146
Common robbery
95
102
98
93
Indecent assault
5
6
6
6
Kidnapping
6
3
3
4
Abduction
3
5
4
4
2
3
5
3
Culpable homicide
13
14
14
15
Public violence
0
1
1
1
23
11
11
14
Aggravating)
2
1
1
1
Aggravating)
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
1
Aggravating)
-
9
12
14
Aggravating)
-
3
3
4
Arson
10
11
11
10
123
145
147
136
Crimen Injuria
67
75
64
57
282
290
271
280
86
74
68
63
72
60
56
56
106
99
97
85
Carjacking (Sub
Aggravating)
Category
of
Robbery
Stock theft
32
34
29
25
17
18
19
16
Drug related crime
38
43
45
65
11
11
15
19
558
588
555
481
Commercial Crime
31
32
38
34
Shoplifting
54
56
69
55
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
55
The difference in percentage, between the reported cases of crime at the Hartbeespoort Police
Station and those of the general Marico Area are included in Table 24 below.
Table 24:
Difference between HTB Police Station and the Marico area.
Difference between Hartbeespoort Police Station and Marico Area Average as percentage
Crime
2001/2002
2002/2003
2003/2004
2004/2005
Murder
28%
52%
30%
52%
Rape
35%
34%
44%
37%
Attempted murder
50%
23%
31%
39%
harm
39%
29%
34%
45%
Common assault
70%
65%
66%
82%
36%
36%
32%
51%
Common robbery
46%
29%
63%
65%
Indecent assault
57%
63%
209%
67%
Kidnapping
17%
0%
32%
0%
Abduction
64%
0%
49%
0%
109%
0%
89%
58%
Culpable homicide
82%
118%
125%
142%
Public violence
0%
0%
0%
0%
31%
47%
28%
79%
Aggravating)
46%
84%
150%
84%
Aggravating)
0%
400%
0%
0%
0%
133%
0%
0%
Aggravating)
11%
17%
15%
Aggravating)
31%
40%
0%
Carjacking (Sub
Aggravating)
Category
of
Robbery
Arson
80%
110%
26%
62%
68%
55%
59%
68%
Crimen Injuria
32%
32%
30%
46%
146%
139%
146%
201%
79%
85%
66%
71%
154%
104%
103%
162%
118%
88%
78%
158%
Stock theft
9%
6%
27%
16%
42%
23%
32%
18%
Drug related crime
39%
28%
25%
39%
70%
84%
34%
81%
97%
87%
102%
104%
Commercial Crime
161%
116%
192%
136%
Shoplifting
17%
5%
19%
11%
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
56
As can be seen from Table 24 above, the highlighted cells indicate crimes that are more frequent
than on average in the rest of the Marico Area. Culpable Homicide, Burglary at residential
premises, theft of motor vehicle and motorcycle and commercial crime are consistently year on
year higher in the study area than the average for the region. Violent crimes in the area that
include, murder, attempted murder, rape and assault GBH, are significantly lower then the
regional average.
The most prevalent crime to be reported to the Hartbeespoort Police Station is residential
burglaries, followed closely by all other theft.
4 LAND USE ANALYSIS
4.1 Current Trends and Practices
Growth trends / demands for the next 15 to 20 years
4.1.1
Shoreline Vegetation
The trend for the state of the shoreline vegetation zone in the study area is negative, for the
following reasons:
The rapidly expanding residential developments around the dam have encroached, and in many
cases completely destroyed, the shoreline vegetation along the edge of the dam;
Colonisation and invasion by non-native vegetation in the shoreline vegetation zone is occurring
in some places, causing a decline in the current ecological state of those areas;
Other infrastructure development within this zone, and areas cleared of indigenous vegetation,
are also causing a decline in the ecological condition of the shoreline vegetation zone.
4.2 Socio-Economic Features
4.2.1
Demographics
Population Size
The number of residents has been growing steadily over the past number of years, with the
migration of people from Gauteng being the most prevalent. An additional trend is the expansion
of urbanization in the form of both the conversion of farms to townships as well as densification of
existing residential and small holding areas.
Table 25:
Population (StatsSA, 2001)
Race
2001
Black African
854
Coloured
39
Indian or Asian
3
White
5 577
TOTAL
6 673
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
57
Status Quo Report
Figure 14:
30 October 2006
Land use within the study area.
58
Age Profile
The study area’s average age is 34,7 years which is slightly higher than the national average
The number and percentage of children age under the age of 19 is 28% which is some 12% lower
than the national average.
The birth rate appears to be 1,8% higher than that of the national figure.
Number of Households
A household consists of all persons comprising a family with a resident parent. The number of
households in the Study area was in the region of 1994 giving a household size of 3,5 people per
household.
Income Profile
Table 26:
Annual household income (StatsSA, 2001).
%
City Of
Johannesburg
Metropolitan
Municipality
%
98744
16.52
196821
18.75
1.96
24180
4.04
43755
4.17
196
9.83
65239
10.91
114575
10.92
R9 601 - R 19 200
218
10.93
90363
15.11
185315
17.65
R19 201 - R 38 400
194
9.73
90993
15.22
167623
15.97
%
City Of Tshwane
Metropolitan
Municipality
73
3.66
R1 - R4 800
39
R4 801 - R 9 600
Study
Area
No income
Annual Income
R38 401 - R 76 800
238
11.94
78049
13.05
120627
11.49
R76 801 - R153 600
373
18.71
67241
11.25
90264
8.60
R153 601 - R307 200
360
18.05
50907
8.51
70703
6.74
R307 201 - R614 400
207
10.38
21733
3.64
39618
3.77
R614 401 - R1 228 800
53
2.66
5610
0.94
12187
1.16
R1 228 801 - R2 457 600
32
1.60
2807
0.47
4790
0.46
R2 457 601 and more
10
0.50
2010
0.34
3396
0.32
1994
100.00
597878
100.00
1049673
100.00
Total
4.2.2
Current Tourism Land Use Practices
4.3 The Economic Profile
The Madibeng Spatial Development Framework characterised the study area as being mixed use
in nature with lack of services with few employment opportunities.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
59
Economic Sectors
Table 27:
Economic employment sectors (StatsSA, 2001).
Sector
2001 %
Agriculture & forestry
2,0
Mining & quarrying
2,0
Manufacturing
7,6
Electricity, gas & water supply
0,3
Construction
3,2
Wholesale & retail trade
8,7
Transport, storage & communication
2,4
Financial, insurance & real estate
9,0
Community, social & personal services
14,1
Private households
6
TOTAL
55.3%
Agriculture
The study area is primarily rural in nature with a significant but somewhat underdeveloped
agricultural base. Agricultural employment, however, has not grown over the last number of
years. The Area’s climate is generally temperate and supportive of agricultural activities. In
addition to this irrigated water is available to those farms which are located below the HBPD
barrage.
The greatest strength of the study area, in respect of agriculture, is its central location and access
to markets. The east-west transport linkages and proximity to the urban centres within Gauteng
are important opportunities in this regard. With specific reference to the Johannesburg
International Airport since more than 50% of specialty produce are shipped via air transport.
The area’s agricultural production traditionally focused on maize and cattle, although flowers and
other agricultural products are now being produced. The price of maize fluctuated extensively
over the past three years and this makes it difficult for farmers to plan their investment.
Increasing mechanisation of agricultural production also impacts on relative investments in capital
and labour. These changes have the propensity to reduce the demand for farm labour and
favours larger farming industries as opposed to small family owned farms.
Agricultural wages are relatively low (approximately R850/month), however, additional benefits
such as free housing, schooling, and gross wages are significantly higher, but nevertheless are
still low.
Mining
Quarries
A sand quarry is located within the study area, which like all quarries linked to the building
industry, is dependant on cyclical demand. It is difficult to determine its lifespan, however, a
planned road may affect its life expectancy.
Mining
The Crocodile Platinum mine with its associated slimes dams is located within the study area. Its
life expectancy is in excess of 20 years, however, its life expectancy is also dependant on the
international platinum price and exchange rate.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
60
Manufacturing and Distribution
The study area has a very limited manufacturing base as compared with the remainder of the
Province. It is envisaged that this sector has declined over the last number of years in concert
with the declining of the economy from 1990 to 2003
Industrial companies in the area produce a variety of goods and a significant number are engaged
in downstream processing of agricultural products such as maize and citrus products.
Trade and Services
Formal trading activities are limited to the small urban areas. Most trading activities serve local
residents and business community. Little regional retail or wholesale trade presently takes place
Financial, Insurance & Real Estate
This sector has grown over the last ten yeas and it is expected that the rate of growth will
increase as the study area becomes more integrated with the adjoining metropolitan areas.
Community, Social and Personal Services
This sector showed the largest growth over the last five years or so, i.e. as the resident population
has become more permanent in nature.
Major Economic Potentials
The study area has a very unique economic base. Being very rural in nature on the one hand and
having a potential for greater tourism activities on the other. A further element is that it is
becoming more integrated within the urban fabric of the two adjoining/nearby metropolitan centres
of Tshwane and Greater Johannesburg.
Strengths and Unique Qualities
The study area’s relative isolation from the pressures of urbanisation, that are evident in the subregion, provides for study area’s tourism potential. The area is close enough to be accessible, but
far enough to provide for a sense of isolation and adventure. The study area offers significant
recreation, heritage and conservation assets.
Sector & Industrial Opportunities
Key opportunities relate to tourism and related services, agriculture, transport, and human
services.
Tourism
The NW Province is committed to conservation and to the development of an eco-tourism industry
based on wildlife and cultural history.
Primary objectives are to promote environmentally
sensitive and sustainable development and to encourage conservation of the bushveld, while
enhancing job and entrepreneurial opportunities for the area’s previously disadvantaged
communities. It is envisaged that game reserves will be developed. It is further proposed to
locate tourism information centres throughout the area. These centres will serve as important
conduits for dissemination of information to tourists and to collect important information on the
market trends within the area, including traveller demographics, product strengths and
weaknesses and itineraries.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
61
Niche Agriculture
There are opportunities for niche agriculture, especially in the citrus and sub-tropical deciduous
fruit industries.
Transport and Social Services
Transport
As the study area is located just south of the Platinum (N4) Corridor, which in turn services the
Maputo Corridor, the transport sector’s contribution to the areas economy has the potential to
grow from its present level of 2,3%.
Community and Social services
This sector is the largest employer within the sub-region. As it only services 18 schools and a
clinic within the study area a large percentage of this sector is employed outside of the study
area.
Cross-border Linkages
The population profile of the study area and the level of commutation and daily commuting into
Gauteng suggest the need for coordination between Gauteng and the NW Province on economic
development within this emerging “inter-provincial region”.
Major Constraints for Economic Development
The study area to some extent is excluded from the spatial growth focus of the provincial
economy. This implies reduced opportunities for investment in capital infrastructure development
resulting in limiting the growth potential of the Local Municipality’s income.
Few areas in the study area have access to bulk infrastructure necessary to support industrial and
tourism development. Access to municipal services is relatively high in the urban areas, however,
where the potential for development has been identified, services should be extended in order to
unlock this potential.
4.4 Proposed Land Use Planning and Policy Framework (LDO / IDP /
Spatial Development Frameworks)
Residential
Market Driven Housing Development
By far the largest residential component within the study area can be defined as “Market Driven”
Housing.
It has been incremental in nature providing both permanent and holiday
accommodation. In resent years it has become evident that the recreational component is being
replaced by permanent accommodation, i.e. as the study area becomes absorbed into the
regional urban development lattice.
Residential Resorts
A number of residential resorts are located within the study area. These developments are
primarily section title/timeshare developments, i.e. where use is primarily weekend and seasonal.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
62
Informal Settlements & Rural Villages
With reference to the roles and functions of municipalities in respect of the provision of housing,
section 9(1) of the Housing Act, 1997 (Act 107 of 1997) states that“Every municipality must, as part of the municipality’s process of integrated development
planning, take all reasonable and necessary steps within the framework of national and provincial
housing legislation to ensure that the inhabitants of its area of jurisdiction have access to housing
on a progressive basis”
The Municipality is therefore responsible for:
Planning: The above-mentioned legislation stipulates that local government must identify and
designate land for housing development. It must also play a role in ensuring the urban quality of
new housing developments, for example in terms of layout and design.
Providing and operating infrastructure: The legislation provides that local government should
provide bulk engineering services and revenue generating services in so far as such services are
not supplied by specialist utility suppliers.
Providing access to facilities such as parks, halls and clinics, and to encourage public transport.
Retail
A number of new neighbourhood /regional centres have been developed over the last year or so.
These developments serve the sub-region as service centres.
Industrial/ Commercial
There is little to no industrial land or activity within the study area. Commercial activities, on the
other hand are primarily limited to storage facilities.
Mining
Platinum and chromium mines are located within the northern sector of the study area. They are
very small in contrast to what one finds in and around Rustenburg. Some are open cast and in so
doing have a negative environmental impact.
Quarrying
A number of quarries operate within the study area, leaving behind the usual negative visual
impacts associated with this type of activity.
Open Space & Recreation
The dam is by far the greatest recreation asset within the study area. As such it can be classified
as being of “metropolitan” importance as it attracts a large amount of visitors from both the
Tshwane and Johannesburg Metropolitan Areas. The land abutting onto the dam, barring two
portions is in private ownership. This reduces the accessibility of the resource to the general
public.
The Magaliesburg Mountain Chain is the most prominent and well-known mountain chain within
the region, including Gauteng. It is used as both an active and passive open space. Active in the
form of hiking and mountaineering and passive in the sense of providing visual relief, views, vistas
and places of reference in an otherwise monotonous landscape.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
63
4.5 Land Management Issues
4.5.1
Illegal Land Uses
Uncontrolled and unplanned urban development such as the establishment of informal
settlements can lead to the alteration, destruction or demolition of cultural heritage resources and
cultural landscapes.
Population pressure, homelessness, unemployment and illegal immigrants can contribute to
increased crime levels.
A further issue is the possible vandalism of cultural heritage resources such as monuments,
memorials, graves, outdoor sculptures, historical buildings and archaeological sites.
Illegal development projects such as the opening of new mines or the construction of roads,
pipelines, and infrastructure can either encroach on existing heritage resources and landscapes
or may lead to the alteration, damage or destruction of these resources.
4.6 Development Trends in the Study Area
4.6.1
Identification of Development Potential
Tourism and recreation development such as new entertainment centres, sports grounds, and
cultural villages can also have negative impacts on cultural heritage resources.
The development of an increasing number of high density up-market residential areas is
threatening unspoilt areas where large numbers of undiscovered heritage resources may still
exist.
5 SERVICES
5.1 Introduction
Engineering infrastructure influences the urban form because of ease with which water and
sanitation can be obtained. This determines the direction and extent of growth, hence,
infrastructure largely acts as a catalyst to development.
A Water Services Development Plan is also being compiled in consultation with the DWAF to
appropriately inform the IDP in respect of service levels and service gaps within the larger district.
Figure 15 provides the layout of some of the key services in the stuffy area where data was
available..
5.2 Existing Services and Capacities
5.2.1
Water Services and Sanitation
It is expected that the district will be responsible for a number of regional functions of which bulk
water supply and distribution, waste water treatment and bulk conveyance of sewage are
important for the purposes of this report.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
64
Status Quo Report
Figure 15:
30 October 2006
Existing services in the study area.
65
Although the Local Municipalities may become responsible for some of the functions in respect of
provision and maintenance of infrastructure it is important to ensure that the Local and District
Municipality both remain involved in the provision, management and operation of municipal
services within their areas of jurisdiction. Where regional functions e.g. bulk water or waste water
treatment is to be provided, it is expected that the District Municipality will provide these services.
Agreements in respect of provision of services will however be required and roles and
responsibilities of the District and/or Local Municipalities as Water Services Providers will most
probably be clarified in these agreements.
Understanding the role and responsibility of the Municipality (as a Water Services Authority) in
water services provision is central to provision of water supply services.
The situation regarding sanitation is different, depending on the level of service provided. The
conventional water borne reticulation scheme belongs to the Water Services Authority, however,
the site drainage connecting to the scheme is the property and responsibility of the owner of the
stand. Other on-site systems, for instance VIP’s, Aqua Privies and Septic Tank Systems are also
owned by the stand owner and are also his responsibility. All on site systems are, however,
approved by the Municipality. The Municipality is, however, not responsible for the maintenance
of these on site systems.
The provision of bulk water supply and the management thereof will most probably remain the
responsibility of district municipalities. The level of service provided to a specific community
determines the approach in respect of the provision of bulk services, however. The accepted
levels of internal services may be summarised as follows:
Service
Basic Level
Intermediate Level
Full Level
Water
Communal Standpipe
Yard tap or tank
House connection
Sanitation
On site VIP toilet
Simple water borne
Full water borne
The Municipality should, in consultation with the District Municipality, provide bulk services for
developments up to the basic level of internal services. Where a development is envisaged with
internal services beyond what is described as “basic”, a contribution towards the provision of bulk
services will be required from the developer.
The Reitfontein Water Treatment Works, which is located on the Farm Rietfontein 495-JQ serves
the residential areas of Schoemansville, Ifafi and Meerlust, by means of a rising main. Its current
capacity is 1,8 mega litres, however, it is presently being upgraded to 3,6 mega litres.
The DWAF is contemplating a new water treatment plant below the dam barrage, however, no
possible sites have been identified at this point in time.
All the other residential developments, including resorts are serviced by means of package plants,
which by nature have no extra capacity.
The provision of services in each area can be summarized as follows:
Schoemanskloof
Magalies Water is a bulk supplier of water in the area and only supplies water where the Water
Services Authority is not able to supply. The board therefore has a number of individuals to
whom it supplies water from its main supply pipelines, although it has been confirmed that
additional capacity is not available on these supply pipelines.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
66
The Schoemanskloof area mainly uses on a full water-borne sanitation system (90% of
households). Where new buildings/dwellings are proposed, plans of the on site systems are
required for approval prior to construction. Sanitation is therefore controlled through the building
plan control process.
Kosmos
Sanitation in the older part as well as the new extensions to the west, dominantly comprises of
septic tank sewerage systems.
Ifafi
Ifafi is served by a water-borne sewerage system.
Peaconwood
Peaconwood is served by a water-borne sewerage system.
The rural areas
The rural areas use groundwater and on-site sanitation of which septic tanks with soak- ways and
self-constructed pit toilets are the most common. The basic sanitation requirements are not
always met.
General
With reference to the above, population in need of basic services, with specific reference to
sanitation and water are summarised in the table below. It must be noted that rural areas and
townships initially developed for the purposes of settlement of black communities. These require
services to be provided in accordance with the RDP standards. Local Authorities are only in a
position to provide services in developments that are defined as being extensions of existing
urban developments. In this case the local authority will only be able to service the areas on the
eastern side of the dam. All the other developments will have to, with the approval of the various
authorities, provide for their own potable water and sewerage needs.
The levels of service in respect of the provision of water within the district are summarised in
Table 28.
Table 28:
Level of service (StatsSA, 2001).
Type Of Water Service Provided
Population
%
Water inside dwelling
1 434
71,7
Water provided on site
394
19,7
Public tap
144
7,2
Borehole
12
0,6
Spring
3
0,15
Rain-water tank
0
0
River/stream
0
0
Unspecified
12
0,6
With reference to sanitation, the levels of service provided may be summarized as follows most
probably be higher since a large portion of residents within the area currently have access to
water of poor quantity and quality. In this regard the figures mentioned in Table 29 include
borehole water that may not, in all instances, be of an acceptable standard.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
67
Table 29:
Sanitation provision (StatsSA, 2001).
Type Of Sanitation Provided
Population
Percentage
1 830
91,5
Flush toilet (Septic tank)
78
3,9
Chemical toilet
18
0,9
Pit latrine (VIP)
12
0,6
Pit latrine
18
0,9
Bucket latrine
0
0
None
45
2,2
Flush toilet (connected to a sewer)
5.2.2
Roads and Stormwater
The main roads within the study area are tarred, however, few have been designed and
constructed with stormwater infrastructure. The roads within the residential areas do in some
instances have stormwater infrastructure. In the rural areas the roads gravel and are maintained
by the Madibeng Local Municipality.
5.2.3
Transportation
The movement of goods and people within the study area is predominantly from the south and
east, i.e. where the greatest demand/supply of economic activities take place.
The national and provincial road network that forms part of movement network, includes the
following primary access roads:
•
The N4 from the N1 & Pretoria
•
R511 from Hennops River to Midrand
•
R512 to Lanseria and Randburg
•
R104 & N4 Toll Road to Rustenburg
5.2.4
Electricity
Electricity within the study area is provided directly by ESKOM. The larger part of the urban areas
within the study area is fully electrified.
The levels of service provided in the larger area may be summarized as follows:
Table 30: Levels of service provided (StatsSA, 2001).
Type Of Electricity Provided
Population
Percentage
1 929
96,4
Other
9
0,4
Gas
9
0,4
Paraffin
42
2,1
Candles
6
0,3
Other sources of energy
6
0,3
Local electricity
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
68
6 RELEVANT LEGISLATION
There are a number of legislative issues that pertain to the study area. For ease of reading, these
have been included into Appendix 4, and it briefly summarizes the relevant legislation that has a
bearing on the management of the environment. The overview should in no way be considered to
be an authoritative legal argument and should any doubt exist as to the application or
interpretation of the law, the reader is referred to the particular Act for clarity. The extracts in
Appendix 4 have largely been extracted from the SEA for the Rustenburg Priority Area 1 Report,
with focus on the Hartbeespoort Area.
Legislation that is included in the Appendix 4 includes the following:
•
Constitution of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996).
•
National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998).
•
National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998).
•
National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999).
•
Minerals Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002).
•
Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act (Act 45 of 1965) and National Environmental
Management Air Quality Act (Act 39 of 2004)
•
Environment Conservation Act (Act 73 of 1989).
•
Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act 43 of 1983).
•
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004).
•
National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003).
•
Development Facilitation Act (Act 67 of 1995).
•
Physical Planning Act (Act 125 of 1991).
•
Sub-Division of Agricultural Land Act (Act 70 of 1970) and Repeal Act (Act 64 of 1998).
•
Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance.
•
Division of Land Ordinance (Act 20 of 1986).
•
Agricultural Holdings (Transvaal) Registration Act (Act 22 of 1919).
7 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
7.1 Introduction
The goal of the Public Participation Process is to facilitate involvement of stakeholders and
interested and affected parties with respect to raising issues regarding the opportunities and
constraints for development within the study area. In this regard, opportunities will be created for
stakeholders to receive relevant information, as well as raise issues and concerns for
consideration in the decision making process.
7.2 Approach & Methodology
A four phased approach of notification of stakeholders, invitation to participate, formation of focus
groups and focussed consultation, will be applied, as follows:
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
69
Phase one
•
Identification of and Notification of Interested & Affected Parties. Letters will be sent to
notify stakeholders about the project and invite their input and contribution.
•
Formation of a database of stakeholders.
•
Draft Questionnaires and Background Information Documents (BID’s).
•
Collection of datasets for mapping (refer to the site map with ward demarcations, in
Figure 16, below).
•
Targeted consultation: Formation of focus groups for consultation purposes.
•
Drafting of letters of invitation to stakeholders.
•
Notification via newspaper advertisements, fax and email.
•
Distributing questionnaires and BIDs.
•
Establish PP Programme Co-ordination Mechanisms and structures.
Phase Two: Communication Strategy (ongoing)
•
Initiating telephone conversations with stakeholders, to discuss the purpose and scope of
the SEA, the information gathering process and the contribution from public participation.
•
Fax or email questionnaires to relevant stakeholders, in order to guide the aims of the
study.
•
Collation of information, in preparation for focus group meetings.
•
Arranging focus group meetings (dates, venues, agenda).
•
Focus Group Meetings.
•
Possible (telephonic) interviews with stakeholders.
Phase Three: Draft SEA and Participation Report
Phase Four: Final SEA and Comment Report
•
Presentation of outcomes.
•
Discussion of draft with the steering committee.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
70
Figure 16:
Ward boundaries of Madibeng Local Municipality.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
71
Figure 17:
Residential areas and tourism in the study area.
7.3 Interested and Affected Parties Invitations & Public Awareness
In this regard, advertisements will be placed in The Kormorant (local) newspaper, along with
updates at key milestones, in The Kormorant. The Issues and Options Bulletin will be placed at
municipal libraries and relevant public thoroughfares, in order to provide updates on the SEA
process, as well as to inform stakeholders about the options which they have, in order to provide
input into the SEA.
7.4 Focus Group Meetings
The purpose of the Focus Group Meeting will be to:
•
The purpose of the Focus Group Meeting will be to:
•
Present and explain the purpose of the SEA and to identify the issues to be considered in
each geographical area.
•
Request input from stakeholders.
•
Identify the opportunities and constraints impacting the activities in each area.
•
Draw on the invaluable expertise and local knowledge of stakeholders.
•
Three Focus Groups:
o
Environment, Agriculture and NGOs.
o
Ward councillors and community representatives.
o
Business, tourism and property development.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
72
7.5 Stakeholder Involvement
Assistance and input has been offered by the ward councillors (wards 28,29,30,24) as well as
former ward councillor (ward 30) Willie Meyer, who has assisted with background information as
well as commitment with involvement from Die Kormorant newspaper, with which he is actively
involved.
7.6 List of Issues and Concerns Raised by IAP’s
•
Farmer’s concerns about water quality, owing to the impact of mines in the area.
•
Land Use Planning In the HBPD Area.
•
Property Development in the HBPD area.
•
Land Availability for Settlement and Development.
•
Mining Industry Spatial Needs and Plans.
•
Farming, Protection of Agricultural Land, Subdivisions of Farming Land, Wild Animals
Damaging Crops.
•
Hawkers’ conflicts with foreigners in ward 29.
•
Development Strategies, Policies, Guidelines, Projects.
7.7 Suggestions
Discussions are ongoing and as such, feedback is updated as the process of consultation
unfolds. Once the focus group meetings have occurred, the data will be recorded and suggestions
and trends in the data will be extrapolated.
7.8 Consultation with Representative Groups / Organizations
The organizations that have been (and will continue) will be in accordance with the focus groups.
As such, some of the organizations include:
•
The Property Developers association.
•
Residents Associations.
•
Brits Investment group.
•
Traders Association.
•
Housing Committees.
•
Agricultural Union.
8 EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF CURRENT PLANNING AND
STRATEGIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT
8.1 Introduction
Currently development has been undertaken largely on a demand driven basis, with high income
residential developments seeking aesthetic value and close proximity to the waters of the HBPD.
Low income developments have largely occurred as a result of the historic legacy of the Apartheid
regime, where citizens were forced to live in marginal areas away from central development
nodes. In addition, current demand from a tourism perspective has created new development
demands in areas where there previously were none.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
73
8.2 Consolidated List of Issues & Concerns
This list of issues and concerns is not as complete as it could be considering that the public
participation for these issues has yet to be done. Thus issues that have been identified during the
initial aspects of the project are included below, but will be added to should the public identify any
other issues of importance.
Issues identified by the NWDACE:
•
Provision of bulk services to the area
•
Pelindaba Nuclear Facility has a 5km no development zone buffer that needs to be taken
into account should any development be required within that area.
•
Meerhof is becoming a development hotspot from a low cost housing perspective.
•
Schoemansville has grown in size and as such is experiencing bulk service delivery
issues, particularly related to sewerage issues.
•
The road through the Brits Tunnel, passing Chameleon Village has shown increased
tourism activities and as a result development along this arterial ribbon has increased and
needs to be assessed.
•
Zandfontein is becoming important from a mining perspective, water abstraction here is
also an issue of concern.
•
The immediate area around the dam (1km from the shore line) is an important area due to
the developments that have taken place there, particularly the high income residential
developments that have obliterated any form of riparian zone.
•
The Skeerpoort River is an important pristine natural stream in the area, one of very few
in the area and should be conserved.
•
The Witwatersberg natural area and associated Cradle of humankind world heritage site,
although protected under their own right have to be factored into future demands from a
holistic perspective.
•
Land claims in the area need be addressed.
•
Botfontein is another residential development hotspot that is worthy of direct investigation.
Issues Identified by Consultants:
The “riparian zone” around the dam should be considered as a priority for the effective
maintenance of the zone. Current trends are developing right to the shoreline whilst it is advised
that a 50m buffer be reserved. Thus future developments should not be allowed to encroach into
this buffer.
Agricultural land ideally needs to be demarcated into significant potential areas so as to be able to
guide future decisions on development in the area. Areas of moderate and high potential
agricultural land should not be allowed to be extensively developed that will result in the loss of
potential agricultural land.
Red data and threatened species lists for all the quarter degrees in the study area and the rest of
the province need to be collected and a database prepared. This should be undertaken by the
NW department of conservation. This will guide development in specific areas and will enable
NWDACE to make strategic decisions for future development plans, policies and programmes.
The NWDACE should prepare species lists of endemic, indigenous and exotic species within the
NW Province. These lists should be at the 1:50,000 scale and the information should be made
readily accessible to the public.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
74
8.3 Constraints of Current Planning
The major constraints with regards to planning in the area are identified below:
•
Large tracts and parcels of undeveloped/underdeveloped land resulting in “leap frog”
development and thus isolated pockets of development in the area arise.
•
Intrusion of the built environment into the natural environment, particularly up mountain
slopes.
•
Public accessibility to the dam is extremely limited.
•
Traffic congestion.
•
Narrow access roads, especially from the south.
•
Land use conflict, especially in the sector to the north of the Magaliesburg.
•
Natural east-west development ability in juxtaposition to poor north-south development
ability.
Over development may lead to loss of natural features which will impact negatively on ecotourism in the area. Development footprints must be limited to ensure that sufficient species
diversity remains as an eco-tourism attraction.
A portion of the study area contains the MPNE where regulations have been promulgated in
terms of Administrator’s Notice 127 in 1994 in which certain development activities are restricted,
if not authorised by the provincial authority. These include:
•
Erection of any structure or building which is higher than 2m, or enlarge existing
structures or buildings.
•
Install any water-, fuel- or mineral pipeline.
•
Construct roads or erect powerlines, canals, reservoirs, cableways or structures for radioand telecommunication purposes.
•
Initiate any excavation of any nature.
•
Construct any waste disposal site or dump any litter or waste.
•
Introduce hiking trails for outdoor recreation purposes.
•
Make any name, message or sign of lime or paint on the ground.
It is difficult to determine a level of acceptable change of the identified environmental resources
as environmental processes often take many years to show significant change as a result of
negative influences. By the time change is noted in the environment, there are already
considerable changes in numerous ecological process, which may or may not be rectifiable. As a
result of this quandary, it is important to err on the side of caution rather than to adopt the “wait
and see” approach.
8.4 Opportunities
Tourism opportunities:
•
Strengthening the linkages with other tourist destinations such as Sun City and the Cradle
of Humankind, as well as Magaliesburg;
•
Coordinated marketing of the area under one cohesive brand
•
Better development coordination – a development masterplan for the area
•
The railway running along the southern side of the HBPD, linking Pretoria and
Magaliesburg, could be used for tourism purposes;
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
75
•
Strengthening existing tourism products and developing new tourism products,
particularly around history and heritage;
•
More varied and publicly accessible use of the HBPD and the Crocodile River below the
dam wall;
•
The nature reserves under municipal control could be developed and better marketed as
tourism destinations;
•
The nature/countryside atmosphere of the study area could be capitalized upon for the
development of health spas;
•
Eco-tourism activities could be developed in the Magaliesberg Mountains.
•
The development of routes and activity trails throughout the area
Heritage opportunities:
•
Hartbeespoort’s existing heritage data base must be electronically linked with the NorthWest Provincial Heritage Resources Authority’s (NW PHRA) heritage data base. An
electronic heritage data base can be utilized in spatial development projects.
•
Hartbeespoort’s heritage data base must be incorporated as a heritage chapter in the
Madibeng Local Municipality’s web page in order to promote heritage in the
Hartbeespoort region.
•
Hartbeespoort must collaborate with its internationally recognized neighbour, the Cradle
of Humankind, to promote its rich and varied heritage which borders on this world
heritage site.
•
The Hartbeespoort’s pre-history and history, the origins of the dam and other cultural and
historical themes must be presented in a formal museum by means of displays and other
multi-media presentations.
•
Historical trials must be established between heritage sites in the area. Some of the
historical trials may be thematic, e.g. a pre-historical trial that focuses on prehistoric sites
such as Stone Age and Iron Age sites; a Transvaal Anglo Boer War historical trial that
includes visits to British blockhouses, battlefields, graveyards; a trail that investigates
historical houses, structures and buildings in the area or a trial that illuminates the story of
the building of the HBPD and its associated canal system, etc..
•
Research projects must be commissioned to unlock information about heritage sites that
have not been investigated or which are understudied.
•
Financial and logistic support must be provided to local heritage committees such as the
Hartbeespoort Environment and Heritage Committee to expand the Hartbeespoort
heritage data base in order to ensure that this document remains a living (working)
document.
•
Pamphlets with information, photographs and directions to heritage sites that are
accessible to the public must be printed.
Ecological Opportunities
There are still currently numerous areas within the study area that contain relatively undisturbed
natural environments with high species richness. These areas present ideal opportunities for
selecting future developments that will maintain or even enhance the areas present status and/or
ecological function in the greater Hartbeespoort area.
Employment opportunities can be created in which members of the disadvantaged communities
can be trained for monitoring and data collection of key environmental parameters in a particular
area or habitat type. Capacity building and training (job creation) is an important component of
new developments and as such should be identified during the development proposal. All data
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
76
collected during monitoring and data collection of key environmental parameters should be
forwarded to the provincial authority to be included in their databases. Particular emphasis
should be given to the presence/absence of Red Data or threatened species in a particular area
as this information is largely lacking from the area.
Developments surrounding the dam should be geared as far as possible towards eco-tourism
growth in the area. The nature of any proposed development must be scrutinised on the basis of
the need and desirability of the intended development in this area as well as the long-term
planning for the development. These measures will ensure that the long-term sustainability of
Hartbeespoort's main attraction, i.e. eco-tourism is maintained.
Specific areas in which the above-mentioned opportunities have been identified are detailed
below:
Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg range: These mountain ranges and associated hills contain
significant biodiversity with limited existing developments on them. The Magaliesberg range is
presently protected in terms of it’s Protected Natural Environment status which will help curb
future developments while no such status is presently given to the Witwatersberg range. These
ranges contain valuable resources of biodiversity within South Africa. Any future proposed
developments in these areas must be well motivated with comprehensive long-term planning
strategies given.
Banks of the HBPD: The development pressure along the bank of the HBPD is intensifying as
evidence by the yearly additions of new developments. Certain areas have been designated as
the HBPD Nature Reserve, and although patchy in nature, these areas conserve the indigenous
natural vegetation surrounding the dam. Future developments along the banks of the dam must
be aimed at conserving/enhancing this natural feature, particularly developments directly adjacent
to these demarcated Nature Reserves.
Banks of the Crocodile river (inlet and outlet), Magaliesriver and numerous spruits: The
riparian vegetation along the banks of the major inlet and outlet river systems to HBPD are
important ecological aspects which help maintain the state of health of these river systems.
Development pressure along these banks must be carefully controlled as the loss of this
vegetation will lead to increased inputs of harmful chemicals and/or nutrient loads to the dam
which will in turn result in further eutrophication of the dam.
Development Opportunities
•
Large tracts and parcels of undeveloped/underdeveloped land;
•
Accessibility to and from large urban concentrations;
•
Strong natural and diverse environmental elements which are in close proximity to and
interlinked with each other;
•
Close proximity to the Platinum & Maputo Corridors;
•
Positive economic and urban growth to the south, east and west of the study area.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
77
9 REFERENCES
ARCSA
(Agricultural Research Council of South Africa), 2006: Available
http://www.arc.agric.za and personal communications with Mr. Ernst Jacobs.
online
Barnes, K.N. (Ed) 2000: Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.
Birdlife South Africa, Johannesburg.
Bojanala Platinum District Municipality, 2002: Integrated Development Plan (IDP). Rustenburg.
Brink, A.B.A. 1979: Engineering Geology of Southern Africa, Volume 1; the first 2000 million years
of geological time. Building Publications, Pretoria.
DEAT (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism), 1996: White Paper on the
Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa. DEAT: Pretoria.
DEAT (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism), 1999: National State of the
Environment Report on the Internet for South Africa 1999. Available online
http://www.environment.gov.za/soer/nsoer/index.htm.
DEAT (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism), 2003: Responsible Tourism
Handbook. DEAT: Pretoria.
DEAT (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism), SA Tourism (South African Tourism),
2004: Domestic Tourism Growth Strategy. Illovo, South Africa.
DH Environmental Consulting, 2005: The Hartbeespoort Dam Remediation Project. North West
Province Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Tourism.
DWAF (Department of Water Affairs and Forestry) 1999: Resource Directed Measures for
Protection of Water Resources., Volume 3: River Ecosystems Version 1.0. Pretoria.
DWAF (Department of Water Affairs and Forestry) 2006: Georequests: Borehole Data, Available
via E-mail: [email protected] .
GTA (Grant Thornton and Associates), 2006: Tourism Assessment, Hartbeespoort Strategic
Environmental Assessment, GTA, Johannesburg.
Harding. B., Thornton. J., Steyn. G. and Kuuppo. P., 2004: Hartbeespoort Dam Remediation
Project. Available online http://dhec.co.za/hbpd/.
JIPSA (Joint Initiative for Priority Skills Acquisition) – this is an initiative of ASGISA, an institution
and not a document. It is explained as such in the literature review.
Kleynhans, CJ, Louw, MD, Thirion, C, Rossouw, NJ, and Rowntree, K, 2005: River
EcoClassification: Manual for EcoStatus determination (Version 1). Joint Water Research
Commission and Department of Water Affairs and Forestry report. WRC Report No. KV
168/05
Madibeng Local Municipality, 2003: Spatial Development Framework. Madibeng Local
Municipality, Brits.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
78
Madibeng Local Municipality, 2004: Integrated Development Plan Review. Madibeng Local
Municipality, Brits
NWDACE (North West Province Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment),
2002: North West State of the Environment Report 2002. NWDACE, Mafikeng.
NWPTB (North West Parks and Tourism Board) 2006b: Pilanesberg National Park. Available
online http://www.tourismnorthwest.co.za (Accessed 28/4/2006).
NWPTB (North West Parks and Tourism Board), 2006a: Kgaswane Mountain Reserve. Available
NWPTB (North West Parks and Tourism Board), 2006c: Borakalalo Reserve. Available online:
http://www.tourismnorthwest.co.za (Accessed 28/4/2006).
NWPTB (North West Parks and Tourism Board), 2006d: Vaalkop Dam Nature Reserve. Available
Office of the Presidency, 2006: Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGI-SA).
Pretoria.
SA Tourism (South African Tourism), 2002: Tourism Growth Strategy. Illovo, South Africa.
SA Weather (South African Weather Services), 1997: South African Weather Services Website:
Climate Data. Available Online: www.weathersa.co.za.
SAPS (South African Police Services) 2006: South African Police Service Website
http://www.saps.gov.za/statistics/reports/crimestats/2005/north_west.htm#Marico,
(Accessed 06/2006).
SEF (Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd.), 2003: North West Province Biodiversity Site
Inventory and Database Development. SEF, Pretoria.
StatsSA (Statistics South Africa), 2001: Census 2001. StatsSA, Pretoria.
Thompson, M., Marneweck, G., Bell, S., Kotze, D., Muller, J., Cox, D. and Clark, R. 2002: A pilot
project for the determination of methods for the National Wetland Inventory. Wetland
Inventory Consortium (Geospace, Wetland Consulting Services, INR and CSIR) for the
Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.
Van Zyl, D. 2003: South African Weather and Atmospheric Phenomena. Briza Publications,
Pretoria.
Walmsley. R. D., Walmsley. J. J., Silberbauer. M., 1999: National State of the
Environment Report: Freshwater Systems and Resources. Available online
http://www.ngo.grida.no/soesa/nsoer/issues/water/.
Status Quo Report
30 October 2006
79

Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Hartbeespoort Dam

Transcription

Similar documents

AVS24 2.4 GHZ Wireless Audio/Video Sender

A division of Bojanala Investment Holdings (PTY) LTD

2016 Old Mutual Om die Dam info flyer

Tourism program brochure

INTECAP, Guatemala

if you want to know what our customers say about us.

Prince Edward County, Canada

Why travel with Solmartour? - World Travel Market Latin America

0859 SKY 11 BB H - Sky Lake Sions Loft