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VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN
ZIVELI LIFESTYLE VILLAGE
Portion 8, Aris
Prepared By:
C. J. Steenkamp
REVISED: JANUARY 201 7
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES .................................................................................................. iv
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACCRONYMS ..................................................................................... iv
APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................. iv
GLOSSARY OF TERMINOLOGY ............................................................................................... iv
1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 5
1.1 BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................... 5
1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................. 5
2 LEGAL AND REGULATORY requirements and standards ............................................. 7
3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT .............................................................................................. 10
3.1 IDENTIFICATION OF DIFFERENT MANAGEMENT ZONES. ....................................... 13
3.2 CONSTRUCTION - FLORA MANAGEMENT THROUGH MITIGATION ACTIVITIES .. 14
3.2.1 Clearing of the area ........................................................................................ 15
3.2.2 Fires .................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.3 Increased collection ........................................................................................ 17
3.2.4 Habitat Loss ....................................................................................................... 17
3.2.5 Spread of alien invasive species .................................................................... 18
3.2.6 Pollution ............................................................................................................. 19
3.2.7 Infrastructure and recreation changes ........................................................ 20
3.3 MONITORING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................ 24
4 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................... 24
5 APPENDICES..................................................................................................................... 25
5.1 APPENDIX A SUGGESTED PLANT SPECIES .............................................................. 25
5.2 APPENDIX B PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO PROTECTED PLANT SPECIES ............... 28
5.3 APPENDIX C PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES .................. 32
iv
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Summary of the legal framework that relates to this project ...................... 7
Table 2: Tree and shrub species protected under Forestry and/or Nature
Conservation Laws ........................................................................................... 10
Table 3: Grass species identified on sit
.................................................................................................................................................. 12
Table 4: Mitigation measures during the different phases of development .......... 21
iv
ABBREVIATIONS AND AC CRONYMS
CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan
CoW City of Windhoek
ECO Environmental Control Officer
MET Ministry of Environment and Tourism
VMP Vegetation Management Plan
WESP Windhoek Environmental Structure Plan
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: SUGGESTED PLANT SPECIES
APPENDIX B: PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO PROTECTED PLANT SPECIES
APPENDIX C: PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES
iv
GLOSSARY OF TERMINOL OGY
Biodiversity: the number and variety of organisms found within a specified
geographic region and the interactions between them.
Ecosystem: a community of plants, animals and smaller organisms that live, feed,
reproduce and interact in the same area or environment.
Ecosystem service: a service people obtain from the environment. Ecosystem
services are the transformation of natural assets (soil, plants and animals, air and
water) into things that we value. They can be viewed as:
provisioning such as food and water;
regulating, for example, flood and disease control;
cultural such as spiritual, recreational, and cultural benefits; or
supporting like nutrient cycling that maintain the conditions for life on Earth.
Ecosystem ‘goods’ include food, medicinal plants, construction materials, tourism
and recreation, and wild genes for domestic plants and animals. (IUCN, 2010)
Habitat: a place in which an organism lives, which is characterized by its physical
environment and subsequently produces a dominant type of vegetation.
5
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The Ziveli Lifestyle Village is located on Portion 8 of the Farm Aris No. 29 (±32 ha).
Portion 8 is bordered on the northwest by the City of Windhoek town lands,
smallholdings border the northeast and southwest and the D1504 district gravel road
borders on the southeast.
A preliminary botanical survey was carried out by Peter Cunningham on 22
November 2006 on the Farm Aris Portion No 8 in the Windhoek area - specifically
focusing on the area of the intended development. During two follow up site visits,
plant species were also identified. The site visits were supplemented by an extensive
literature review of probable reptiles, amphibians, mammals & birds that ought to
occur at the site, but not necessarily observed whilst conducting the actual visit (See
attached Report: Rapid assessment- Biophysical issues).
Another site visit was carried out on 23 September 2016 on request of Urban Green
Consultants to assess the impact of the construction activities at the time on the
vegetation. The original VMP was then reviewed and this document therefore serves
as an updated version of the original VMP.
There are no endangered species recorded on the site, there are however species
present that are protected in Namibia under the Preservation of Trees and Forests
Ordinance (37 of 1952) and the Proclamation of the SWA Administration, No. 486 in
1972. The Nature Conservation Ordinance 4 of 1975 and 247 of 1977 also provides
protection. Mitigation measures to minimise impacts of the development were
recommended and these are also incorporated in this Vegetation Management
Plan (VMP).
The VMP is an integral part of the Environmental Management Plan and provides
guidelines to the site manager and contractor on mitigation of identified impacts
during the construction phase.
1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The overriding aim of the VMP is to provide a working document that will successfully
protect, maintain and enhance the site’s native vegetation both for immediate
rehabilitation purposes and also for maintenance into the future. The VMP’ aims
should be consistent with related environmental legislation and policies.
6
The specific objectives of the VMP are to ensure that biodiversity values are
improved or maintained and that the development does not result in an overall
decline by:
Preserving and conserving the existing vegetation
Ensuring that the execution of the project results in minimal vegetation
clearance
Protecting and enhancing significant remnant vegetation at the site
through weed management and re vegetation using locally indigenous
species.
Maintaining and monitoring of existing remnants and rehabilitated areas
post-construction.
Providing greater integrity to the drainage line corridor in order to provide
habitat, connectivity and ecosystem services
Providing protection and enhancement of the drainage line and
associated vegetation as well as the rocky ridge to the north west of the
site
Stabilising areas where erosion is evident or likely to occur post
construction with indigenous plantings.
Providing guidance to project managers to ensure that activities are
carried out by capable contractors in order to minimise environmental risk
during construction.
7
2 LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND STA NDARDS
The following section, in table format (Table 1), describes the legal environmental framework that has relevance to the project:
Table 1: Summary of the legal framework that relates to this project
LEGISLATION PROVISIONS REGULATORY
AUTHORITY PROJECT IMPLICATION CONTACT PERSON
Windhoek Environmental
Structure Plan (2004)
It indicates all sensitive and
environmentally fragile zones that should
be conserved and protected. These
areas should be considered with great
care and when planning for any
development project. The document is
mainly helping in applying sound
environment planning and management
(Section 3.4.1, page 60).
City of Windhoek.
Department of
Planning,
Urbanization and
Environment.
Specifies that the mountains
and ridges of Windhoek
should be maintained in a
natural state. Any
development in these areas
must be subjected to visual
impact assessment and the
formulation of effective
mitigation measures.
Environmental Management
Division
Olavi Makuti
Tel: 061 290 3518
Environmental Management
Act (No 7 of 2007) and
Namibia’s Environmental
Assessment Policy (1995)
Schedule 1: Screening list of
policies/plans/programme/project
subject to full Environmental Assessment.
“The rezoning of land from use for nature
conservation or zoned open space to
any other land use.”
Listed activities that require an EIA. An
Environmental Impact Assessment was
undertaken in 2007 whereby specific
impacts were investigated
Ministry of
Environment and
Tourism (MET),
Directorate of
Environmental Affairs
(DEA)
An Environmental
Assessment is compulsory.
An Environmental
Clearance Certificate is
needed from the DEA upon
the delivery of the EIA and
EMP before any construction
may be undertaken on the
site
Dr. Freddy Sikabongo
Tel: 061 284 2715
8
LEGISLATION PROVISIONS REGULATORY
AUTHORITY PROJECT IMPLICATION CONTACT PERSON
Windhoek Town Planning
Scheme (2005)
Allowed activities under “Residential
Building” and “Residential Unit”.
Minister of Regional
and Local
Government,
Municipal Council of
Windhoek
“Any person intending to
erect a building in any use
zone may be required by
Council to furnish an
environmental assessment
report having regard to the
promotion of health, safety,
order, amenity,
convenience and general
welfare and the impact the
new buildings and the
operations are likely to have
on the amenity of the
locality.”
Mr. Erastus Negonga
Tel: 061 297 2911
Forest Act, 2001 (Act No. 12
of 2001),
Affords protection to any living tree, bush
or shrub within 100m from any river,
stream or watercourse.
Ministry of
Agriculture, Water
and Forestry (MAWF),
Directorate of
Forestry
A Harvesting Permit needs to
be acquired from the
Directorate of Forestry for
the removal of certain tree
species from the site,
including Acacia erioloba,
Albizia anthelmintica,
Ziziphus mucronata, Boscia
albitrunca.(A complete list is
provided in Table 2 and
Appendix B)
Mr. Andries Uugwanga
Tel: 062 501 925
9
LEGISLATION PROVISIONS REGULATORY
AUTHORITY PROJECT IMPLICATION CONTACT PERSON
Policy For The Distribution
& Future Usage Of Public
Open Spaces In Windhoek,
2000
Affords the provision of land for the
explicit development of open spaces
which by definition refers to areas
specifically left free of any intensive
development.
City of Windhoek.
Department of
Planning,
Urbanization and
Environment.
Provide guidelines for the
establishment of open
spaces and green corridors
along drainage lines and
sensitive environmental
areas.
Environmental Management
Division
Olavi Makuti
Tel: 061 290 3518
Soil Conservation Act 76 of
1969
Prevention and combating of soil erosion;
conservation, improvement and manner
of use of soil and vegetation, and
protection of water sources.
Ministry of
Environment and
Tourism (MET)
Removal of vegetation
cover is to be avoided and
minimized at all costs.
Dr. Freddy Sikabongo
Tel: 061 284 2715
INTERNATIONAL TREATIES AND AGREEMENTS
Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD)
Namibia is obliged under
international law to conserve its
biodiversity
Projects should refrain from
causing any damage to the
country’s biodiversity.
Convention to combat
Desertification
Namibia is bound to prevent
excessive land degradation that
may threaten livelihoods.
This is a general requirement
to be considered in all
projects.
10
3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
The study area is classified as Highland Savanna (Giess, 1971) with the following
species characterising the tree strata: Acacia erioloba, Combretum apiculatum
subsp. apiculatum, Acacia hereroensis, A. mellifera (subsp. detinens), A. reficiens,
and A. erubescens. The vegetation associated with the drainage line consists of
Ziziphus mucronata, Acacia karoo. Aloe species are protected under CITES and are
also conserved under the Red Data List.
A preliminary botanical survey was carried out by Peter Cunningham on 22
November 2006 on the Farm Aris Portion No 8 in the Windhoek area - specifically
focusing on the area of the intended development. During two follow up site visits,
plant species were also identified. The site visits was supplemented by an extensive
literature review of probable reptiles, amphibians, mammals & birds that ought to
occur at the site, but not necessarily observed whilst conducting the actual visit.
There are no endangered species recorded on the site, there are however species
present that are protected by the Preservation of Trees and Forests Ordinance (37 of
1952).
Tree and shrub diversity
None of the tree & shrub species that are found in the proposed development site
are endemic although a few are protected under the Forestry and/or Nature
Conservation laws (Table 2).
Table 2: Tree and shrub species protected under Forestry and/or Nature Conservation Laws
Species Observed Status
Acacia erioloba √ Protected (F)
Acacia hebeclada * √
Acacia hereroensis √
Acacia karoo √
Acacia mellifera subsp.
mellifera *
√
11
Albizia anthelmintica √ Protected (F)
Boscia albitrunca √ Protected (F)
Catophractes alexandri √
Combretum apiculatum √
Dichrostachys cinerea √
Dombeya rotundifolia √
Ehretia alba √
Elephantorrhiza
suffriticosa
√
Euclea undulata √
Grewia flava √
Lycium bosciifolium √
Montinia
caryophyllacea
√
Olea europaea √
Rhus marlothii √
Tarchonanthus
camphorates *
√
Ziziphus mucronata √ Protected (F)
F – Forestry Ordinance No. 37 of 1952 and/or Forest Act No. 72 of 1968 (Curtis &
Mannheimer 2005)
NC – Nature Conservation Ordinance No. 4 of 1975 (Curtis & Mannheimer 2005)
* – Dominant species
12
In the above table only trees and shrubs are indicated, none of the herbaceous
species are included here. These species however play a significant role together
with the grass cover to stabilize soil.
Grass Diversity
The rapid site visit resulted in the following species being identified on site (Table 3).
This list is by no means comprehensive as no formal vegetation survey was
conducted at Farm Aris Portion No 8. None of the grasses that are found in the
proposed development site are endemic to Namibia. A total of 16 different grasses
were identified in the area. Most of the grasses had an average to low grazing value
(94%) indicating long term overgrazing in the general area.
Table 3: Grass species identified on site
Species Observed Ecological
Status *
Grazing
Value *
Andropogon gayanus √ Increaser 1 High
Aristida adscensionis √ Increaser 2 Low
Aristida meridionalis √ Increaser 2 Low
Aristida stipitata √ Increaser 2 Low
Cymbopogon plurinodis √ Increaser 2 Low
Enneapogon
cenchroides *
√ Increaser 2 Low
Eragrostis cylindriflora * Intermediate Average
Eragrostis
echinochloidea √ Increaser 2 Average
Eragrostis nindensis √ Increaser 2 Average
Eragrostis rigidior Increaser 2 Average
Eragrostis rotifer Intermediate Low
13
Eragrostis superba √ Increaser 2 Average
Eragrostis trichophora * √ Increaser 2 Average
Heteropogon contortus √ Increaser 2 Average
Hyparrhenia hirta √ Increaser 1 Average
Pogonarthria fleckii √ Increaser 2 Low
* Source: Müller, M.A.N. 1984. Grasses of South West Africa/Namibia. John Meinert
Publishers (Pty) Ltd, Windhoek, Namibia. & Van Oudtshoorn, F. 1999. Guide to grasses of
southern Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria, South Africa.
* – Dominant species
3.1 IDENTIFICATION OF DIFFERENT MANAGEMENT ZONES.
The following management zones were identified by making use of satellite imagery
and verified during a site visit :
Management Zone 1 (MZ1) : Conservation and or preservation zones
These zones should be demarcated as NO GO areas, maintained and preserved
and incorporated into an interconnected system of green space. NO construction
activities should be allowed in NO GO areas.
These zones include the following:
drainage line and associated vegetation as a green corridor. The drainage
line should be connected with the recreation zones and open spaces in order
to connect the different ecosystems.
rocky outcrop with associated vegetation to the north of the site which serve
as important habitat. These areas should be viewed as sensitive and also be
included in the green network and link up with the drainage line through
green corridors to improve overall ecological functioning of the site.
A 20 metre core riparian zone (Buffer) with a vegetated buffer of at least 10 m to
protect the riparian corridor from degradation is recommended.
NO encroachment, chanelling or storm water piping allowed in the riparian corridor.
14
Management Zone 2 (MZ2): Rehabilitation zones
This will include all zones where damage is already evident due to removal of native
vegetation.
This zone also includes the drainage line and banks of the drainage line where
erosion is already evident.
These areas need to be re vegetated using indigenous plants.
Management Zone 3 (MZ3): Recreation zones
Areas indicated on site plan as open public space as well as the riparian corridor
that will link up with public open spaces to create a green corridor.
Management Zone 4 (MZ4): Built up areas
All built up areas within the Ziveli Lifestyle Estate
Management Zone 5 (MZ5): Infrastructure development and access roads, etc.
All service roads and infrastructure development related to the project.
3.2 CONSTRUCTION - FLORA MANAGEMENT THROUGH
MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
An awareness campaign by the Homeowners’ Association in association with the
Botanical Society could help to raise awareness and even a sense of custodianship
for the various indigenous species, indeed for all diversity in the area. This might also
lead to self-policing and self-regulation.
The health of the natural habitat is not only desired for conservation and productivity
purposes – good habitat is also required to promote optimum water infiltration into
the Windhoek aquifer.
15
3.2.1 CLEARING OF THE AREA
IMPACTS
Vegetation clearing during construction will occur in staged sections, i.e. the whole
area will not be stripped of vegetation during the construction phase.
Reduced grass cover may also increase the flow of water, thus increasing flash flood
intensities. There are already signs of significant loss of grass cover at the
development site.
The development of initial access roads for development could increase erosion,
especially if vehicles on well-used roads displace the quartz pebble cover so typical
of this area significantly.
Roads also improve accessibility, which might encourage illegal collection of plant
material i.e. wood or seedlings
MITIGATION
In order to minimise the impact of the construction on the natural environment, the
site manager need to ensure that vegetation clearing is avoided where practically
possible.
Rehabilitation of all sites disturbed during construction including initial development
access routes “scars” and associated tracks and operation of the lifestyle village will
occur. This needs to be managed by the Site manager and Enviornmental Control
officer.
Such rehabilitation would not only confirm the Developers’ environmental integrity,
but also show true local commitment to the environment.
Successful attempts to maintain the biotic integrity of the area will also enhance the
aesthetic appeal of the area.
Ensure that drainage lines and associated vegetation remains undeveloped with NO
encroachment, channelling or storm water piping allowed.
Where possible during land clearing, topsoil will be stockpiled for use during re-
vegetation, and all clearing of vegetation will be minimized.
Removal of any native vegetation will be undertaken in agreement with the
Preservation of Trees and Forests Ordinance (37 of 1952), and only after consultation
with the appropriate authorities regarding threatened plant species.
16
Avoid the removal of bigger trees during the construction phase(s) – especially with
the construction of access routes – as these serve as habitat for a myriad of fauna.
Re-vegetation operations will involve consultation with appropriately qualified
personnel to ensure that only indigenous species are used in order to avoid the
introduction of new or introduced species to the area.
In certain circumstances, it might be decided to rip disturbed areas and seed these
with indigenous grass species. (Landscape architect)
In addition, when the construction activities cease, rehabilitation of the site will
ensure a return to native vegetation.
During site preparation for road access upgrades, installation of powerlines, resource
extraction, construction of access roads vegetation removal will occur. Where
possible, vegetation that is removed will be mulched and stockpiled and then used
in subsequent rehabilitation works
3.2.2 FIRES
IMPACTS
An increase in the frequency of fires may have unpredictable effects on grass cover
that secondarily might increase erosion and reduce habitat for biodiversity requiring
dense cover.
Fire may also cause a change in the composition of plants by its effect on plant
germination, survival, and growth of shrubs and trees.
Changes in vegetation as a result of frequent fires are known to have a significant
effect on biodiversity.
MITIGATION
Prevent and discourage fires – especially during the construction phase(s) – as this
could easily cause runaway veld fires affecting the local fauna, but also causing
problems (e.g. loss of grazing & domestic stock mortalities, etc.) for the neighbouring
residents.
Until a scientifically-based fire strategy has been developed, the interim
management action in this regard should be to prevent fires and to extinguish them
as quickly as possible.
17
3.2.3 INCREASED COLLECTION
IMPACTS
A range of collecting activities, ranging from the collection of firewood, edible plants
and animals to the collection of ornamental rocks, plants and even soil also have
considerable impacts on the area surrounding Windhoek.
The proximity of houses to the mountains may make collection easier (of course the
reverse may also be true – aware and concerned residents may be vigilant and
more easily detect illegal collectors).
The veld in many parts of the development area has deteriorated and there are
some signs of bush encroachment.
MITIGATION
Prevent and discourage illegal collecting of veld foods (e.g. mushrooms, etc.) and
collecting of wood as this would diminish and negatively affect the local fauna –
especially during the construction phase(s). Address this in the Home Owners’
Manual.
3.2.4 HABITAT LOSS
IMPACTS
Urban development will inevitably lead to habitat destruction through the building of
houses, roads, gardens and other infrastructure.
Removal of vegetation will lead to habitat destruction of a large number of
invertebrates as well as mammals.
MITIGATION
Ridges and koppies should be maintained as natural open spaces similar to the
requirements of the Public Open Space Policy of the City of Windhoek, since scarce
and endemic plant species are also found in these areas. They should be large
18
enough to maintain viable populations of the species within, and attempts should be
made to link them, if at all possible, by means of corridors. This might require
consultation with a conservation biologist.
Drainage line and associated vegetation should be maintained as natural open
spaces similar to the requirements of the Public Open Space Policy of the City of
Windhoek, in order to protect tree species, and sandy habitat for burrowing animals.
Acacia erioloba (Camelthorn) and Ziziphus mucronata (Buffalo thorn) is protected.
The trees also provide ideal habitat for species requiring cavities for nesting. These
habitats can also act as corridors.
Remove unique vegetation (e.g. Aloe species, etc.) and any other local features
deemed sensitive that would be destroyed during the development phase(s) and
relocate to a less sensitive/disturbed site if possible or reintroduce after development.
Incorporate unique habitats and features into the development site layout – i.e.
serve as protected islands or even be incorporated into the landscaping. Avoid
driving randomly through the area (i.e. “track discipline”), but rather stick to
permanently placed roads/tracks – especially during the construction phase. This
would minimise the effect on localised potentially sensitive habitats in the area.
3.2.5 SPREAD OF ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES
IMPACTS
The varied activities associated with urban and economic developments may
increase the introduction and spread of alien invasive species, if not regulated.
The disturbance of a significant area of land associated with the development of the
Lifestyle Village and the supporting infrastructure will provide opportunities for
introduced plant species to become established.
During re-vegetation activities on site, poorly chosen seed mixes have the potential
to introduce non-native species to the area. Use native grass species .
Furthermore, there is the potential for transport of weed species and diseases on and
off the construction site on vehicles and by people walking around the site.
MITIGATION
19
All existing alien invasive species need to be removed. A landscape architect need
to identify and mark the species.
The planting of invasive alien plants and the creation of areas (e.g. denuded areas
during construction), where disturbance could accelerate alien invasions and need
to be prohibited. Refer to Appendix 1 of the recommended Plant list.
By applying the current restriction policy against exotic species planting of these
species can be prevented or discouraged. Incorporate into the Home Owners’
manual.
Avoid planting potential invasive species (e.g. Lantana, Melia, Opuntia, Tecoma,
etc.) for gardening purposes as these could easily escape into the unique Auas
Mountains causing eventual loss of biodiversity.
Use indigenous vegetation for gardening purposes. This will result in a “natural”
ambiance and be water wise as indigenous vegetation requires and uses less water
than exotic species. (Refer to Appendix A for recommended list of plant species)
3.2.6 POLLUTION
IMPACTS
Incidental and accidental pollution from high density urban and economic
development inevitably leads to environmental pollution.
This may range from insidious effects such changes in temperatures and CO2 levels
over the Windhoek basin, mortalities and disturbance to animal populations caused
by vehicle and air traffic, disorientation of night-active animals by city lights, plastic
bags and other urban rubbish blown into the surrounding areas, and illegal dumping
of urban or industrial refuse.
MITIGATION
Pollution issues will to be addressed in the Waste management plan as part of the
CEMP
20
3.2.7 INFRASTRUCTURE AND RECREATION CHANGES
IMPACTS
Peri-urban villages and tourist accommodation, for example, may require rubbish
removal and sewage treatment. The implications of this for groundwater pollution
require attention.
Recreational activities such as hiking and 4x4 trails also need careful planning since
this may have a significant impact on native vegetation.
MITIGATION
Before mulching, any viable seed stocks will be collected and stored appropriately.
Table 4 provides a summary of the mitigation measures to be implemented in the
different Management zones during the different phases of the project. It also
indicates the relevant responsible person.
21 Table 4: Mitigation measures during the different phases of development
Mitigation measures
Timing
Frequency
Location
Responsibility
Pre
- c
on
stru
ctio
n/
Cle
arin
g
Co
nst
ruc
tio
n/
Cle
arin
g
Po
st-c
on
stru
ctio
n
MZ1
Co
nse
rva
tio
n
pre
serv
atio
n z
on
e
MZ3
Re
ha
bili
tatio
n z
on
e
MZ3
Re
cre
atio
n z
on
e
MZ4
Bu
ilt u
p z
on
e
MZ5
Infr
ast
ruc
ture
d
ev
Ac
ce
ss r
oa
ds
Address collection of
firewood as part of CEMP
√ Once only and then
monitored
√ √ √ √ Environmental Control
Officer (ECO)
Demarcate all areas to be
conserved or preserved as
NO GO areas
√ Once only and then
maintained
√ √ Ecologist or Environmental
Control Officer (ECO)
Demarcate a 20 m buffer
zone along the drainage
line by erecting a barrier
/fence
√ Once only and then
maintained
√ Ecologist or ECO
Access control –
Identification of parking
areas, stockpiles and
material storage in areas
outside of Management
Zone 1
√ √ √ √ Project Manager and
ECO
Pre-clearing survey to be
undertaken by qualified
ecologist prior to any
clearing of vegetation.
√ Prior to any works on site √ √ √ √ √ Ecologist or ECO
Marking of all protected
species and trees with
diameter of 20 cm by a
qualified ecologist.
Prior to any works on site √ √ √ √ √ Ecologist or ECO
22
Adequate erosion control √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Contractor and ECO
Tweak all access routes
infrastructure
development to avoid
NO GO areas and
marked protected trees.
√ Prior to construction √ Project Manager,
Engineer and ECO
Stockpile all topsoil for use
in rehabilitation of site
later
√ As clearing occurs √ √ √ √ √ Construction Contractor
and ECO
Collect seed of
indigenous grasses for
rehabilitation later
√ √ Ongoing √ √ √ √ √ Construction Contractor
and ECO
Ask a local nursery to
propagate local
indigenous spp
√ Ongoing √ √ √ √ Landscaper for
Rehabilitation and
regeneration
Mulch and stockpile all
vegetation removed to
be used in rehabilitation
√ As clearing occurs √ √ √ √ Construction Contractor
and ECO
Rehabilitation of all
access route “scars” and
tracks
√ Post construction √ √ √ Construction Contractor
and ECO
Landscaper
Weed and alien invasive
control in all areas of
earthworks
√ Post construction and on
going,
Monitored weekly.
√ √ √ √ √ ECO and team
Seeding of native grass in
public open spaces.
It might be necessary to
rip these areas first.
√ Post construction √ Landscaper and qualified
ecologist
Re vegetation of areas
identified using local
indigenous spp. (See
Appendix A)
The re vegetation of all
√ Post construction and on
going
√ √ √ √ Landscaper and qualified
ecologist
23
management zones
needs to emulate the
characteristics of the
native vegetation.
Watering of plants (each
plant will require 20 litres
of water.
Watering to take place
within two hours of
planting.
Apply water retaining
granules (eg. Vermiculite)
with installation of each
plant.
Watering will only occur in
the first 12 months of
planting.
√ Once off planting
except where plants
need to be replaced
√ √ √ √ Landscaper and
individual home owners
Secondary weed control √ Quarterly √ √ √ √ Landscaper for
Rehabilitation and
regeneration
Pests and diseases √ Monitored every week
for first month, then
quarterly
√ √ √ √ Landscaper for
Rehabilitation and
regeneration
Adequacy of erosion
control solutions
√ After periods of heavy
rain or quarterly
√ √ √ √ Landscaper for
Rehabilitation and
regeneration
Maintenance inspections √ Within first week of
planting and then
quarterly
√ √ √ √ Landscaper for
Rehabilitation and
regeneration
24
3.3 MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
The management and implementation of the VMP will be the responsibility of a
qualified and experienced ecologist in collaboration with the ECO.
It is important that the implementation of the actions as prescribed in the VMP is
monitored on an ongoing basis to minimise the impact of the construction activities
on the local vegetation communities.
The Site Manager (or designated personnel) is to ensure that only essential areas are
disturbed.
A list of plants that will be allowed in gardens and on site is attached as Appendix A
and should be included in the Home Owners’ guidelines.
Following rehabilitation, monitoring of re vegetation success will occur annually and
re-vegetation surveys need to be undertaken annually by qualified consultants
following the construction activities for 5 years.
4 REFERENCES
Africon, 2004. Windhoek Environmental Structure Plan(WESP). Prepared for The Department of
Planning, Urbanisation and Environment. City of Windhoek. Windhoek.
EnviroDynamics, 2009. Windhoek Biodiversity Inventory. Prepared for City of Windhoek,
Windhoek.
Mannheimer, C.A. & Curtis, B.A. (eds.) 2009. Le Roux and Muller’s Field Guide to the Trees and
Shrubs of Namibia. Windhoek: MacMillan Education Namibia.
Mendelsohn, J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. and Robertson, T. 2009. Atlas of Namibia: A portrait of
the land and its people. David Philip Publishers. Cape Town. South Africa.
Strohbach, B., & Seely, M., et al. 2003. Description of the vegetation types in the Windhoek
Municipal Area. DRFN, Windhoek.
Urban Green CC. 2005. Environmental Scoping Report – Proposed Township development on
a Portion of Portion 4 of the Farm Elisenheim No. 68. Unpublished Report.
25
5 APPENDICES
5.1 APPENDIX A SUGGESTED PLANT SPECIES
Trees
Scientific Name Common Name
Acacia karroo Sweet thorn/Soetdoring
Acacia erioloba Camel Thorn/Kameeldoring
Acacia erubescens Yellow-bark Acacia/Withaak
Acacia galpini Monkey thorn
Acacia hereroensis Mountain Thorn/Berg doring
Acacia nigrescens Knob thorn/Knoppiesdoring
Acacia sieberiana Paper bark Acacia
Albizia anthelmintica Worm cure albizia/Wurmbas doring
Boscia albitrunca Shepherd’s tree/Witgat
Combretum apiculatum Kudu bush/Koedoebos/Omumbuti
Dombeya rotundifolia Wild pear/Wilde peer
Kirkia acuminata White or Mountain seringa/Wit sering
Moringa ovalifolia Phantom tree/Sprokiesboom/Omutindi
Mundulea sericea Cork Bush/Kurkbos
Olea europeae subsp. africana Wild Olive/Olien
Ozoroa paniculosa Resin bush/ Harpuisboom
26
Pappea capensis Jacket plum/Doppruim
Peltophorum africanum Weeping wattle/Huilboom
Searsia lancea Karee
Searsia marlothii Bitter Karee
Ziziphus mucronata Buffalo Thorn/Blinkblaarwag-n-bietjie
SHRUBS
Barleria spp. Bush violet/Bosviooltjie
Bauhinia petersiana White bauhinia/Koffiebeesklou/Mupondo
Catophractes alexandrii Trumpet thorn
Croton gratissimus Lavender Feverberry
Cyphostemma currori Kobas
Cyphostemma juttae Blue leaved kobas
Dichrostachys cinerea Kalahari Christmas Tree
Ehretia alba Puzzle bush/Deurmekaar bos
Gardenia volkensii Savanna gardenia /bosveld katjiepiering
Grewia flava Raisin bush
Grewia flavescens Rough leaved raisin bush
Leonotis leonurus Wild dagga
Phaeoptilum spinosum Brittle thorn
Polygala virgata Purple broom bush
27
Sutherlandia frutescens Cancer bush
Tarchonanthes camphoratus Camphor bush
Rhigozum obovatum Yellow pomegranate
HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS
All indigenous Aloe species
Bulbine capitata Scented grass bulbine
Bulbine frutescens Stalked bulbine
Dietes bicolor Yellow wild iris
Kniphofia praecox Red-hot poker
Kalanchoe, Crassula and Cotyledon spp.
CLIMBERS
Clematis brachiata Travelers joy
Combretum microphyllum Flame creeper
Jasminum multipartitum Starry wild jasmine
Maerua juncea Slangeier bos/Orueti
28
5.2 APPENDIX B PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO PROTECTED
PLANT SPECIES
29
SCIENTIFIC NAME PROTECTED IN
NAMIBIA UNDER
PHOTOGRAPH
Acacia erioloba
(Camelthorn/Kameeldoring/
Omumbonde)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
Albizia anthelmintica
(Worm cure albizia/Aru)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
Aloe littoralis
(Windhoek/Mountain aloe/
Otjombonde)
Nature
Conservation
Ordinance 4 of
1975 and 247 of
1977
CITES II
30
SCIENTIFIC NAME PROTECTED IN
NAMIBIA UNDER
PHOTOGRAPH
Boscia albitrunca
(Shepherd’s tree/Witgat/
Omutendereti)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
Cyphostemma currorii
(Kobas/Omutindi)
Nature
Conservation
Ordinance 4 of
1975 and 247 of
1977
31
SCIENTIFIC NAME PROTECTED IN
NAMIBIA UNDER
PHOTOGRAPH
Maerua schinzii
(Ringwood tree/
LammerdrolOmutengu)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
Searsia lancea
(Karee)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
Ziziphus mucronata
(Buffalo thorn/ Blinkblaar-wag-
n-bietjie/Omuketete)
The preservation of
Trees and Forests
Ordinance of 1952
32
5.3 APPENDIX C PHOTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO ALIEN INVASIVE
SPECIES
Name Origin Photo
Argemone ochroleuca
Mexican poppy/Blou Dissel
South America
Cryptostegia grandiflora
Rubbervine
Madagascar
Cylindropuntia imbricata
Devil’s rope cactus
Mexico/USA
Datura innoxia
Downy thorn apple
South America
Harrisia martinii
Moon or torch cactus
South America
Lantana camara
Tick berry
South and Central
America
33
Name Origin Photo
Leucaena leucophela
Wonder tree
Tropical Ameria
Nicotiana glauca
Wild tobacco
South America
Opuntia stricta
Common pest pear
Sour Prickly pear
Central and South
Ameria
Prosopis spp
Mesquite tree
Mexico
South America