Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for the proposed ...

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Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for the proposed

Bulbulla Integrated Agro-Industrial Park (IAIP) and

Shashemene Rural transformation Centre (RTC)

Prepared by- Kahsay Gebretensae

January 2018

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Table of contents Page

1. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………..1

2. Project Area Baselines……………………………………………………………….1

2.1. Physical Conditions.…………………………………………………………..1

i. Location and Topography………………………………………………………1

ii. Climate …………………………………………………………………………….2

2.2. Flora and Fauna …………………………………………………………….…2

i. Flora …………………………………………………………………………….....2

ii. Fauna ………………………………………………………………………………3

iii. Species of Conservation Concern ……………………………………………….4

2.3. Protected and Non Protected Biodiversity Sites..………………………….4

i. Protected Areas……………………………………………………………………..4

ii. Wetlands………………………………………………………………………….....9

3 Shashemene RTC …………………………………………………………………10

4 Impact Assessment and Mitigation for Bulbulla IAIP and

Shashemene RTC…………………………………………………………………....11

i) Assessment Methodology ……………………………………………………….11

ii) Bulbulla IAIP - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures……………..12

iii) Shashemene RTC - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures………….17

iv) Residual Impacts and Conclusion………………………………………………21

5 References/ Bibliography…………………………………………………………22

6 Annexes…………………………………………………………………………............24

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Biodiversity Impact Assessment Report for the proposed Bulbulla

Integrated Agro-Industrial Park (IAIP) and Shashemene Rural

transformation Centre (RTC)

1. Introduction This section provides a description of the existing biodiversity components and associated key

features which include typical flora and fauna, protected areas and non protected sensitive

resources that are found inside and within the vicinity of the project sites. The baseline

conditions within the proposed project areas have been determined through desk-based

reviews of available information, field surveys and consultations with concerned authorities.

2. Project Area Baselines

2.1. Physical Conditions

i. Location and Topography The proposed Bulbulla IAIP covers 263 hectares (ha) of an area. The site is located

approximately 200 km South of Addis Ababa, immediately adjacent to the main highway

connecting Addis Ababa and Hawassa. It is situated in the Adamitulu-Jido- Kombolcha

wereda of the East Shewa Zone of the Oromia Regional State, at the geographic UTM 37N

458642.052 up to 460744.7941 Easting and UTM 37 N 856019.4476 - 858304.6467 Northing (Fig.

1)’.

Fig. 1: Location of Bulbulla IAIP

The IAIP will include open area production zones, controlled environment growing, precision

farming, knowledge hubs and research facilities, rural hubs, agri-infrastructure, collection

centres, primary processing hubs, social infrastructure and agri-marketing infrastructure, and

will be served by a proposed network of rural transformation centres (RTCs), one of which is

located at Shashemene.

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ETHIOPIA

The Bulbulla IAIP is situated in the lower northern part of the Great Rift Valley at an average

altitude of 1,650masl. The northern floor of the rift valley was previously occupied by one

large lake, of which Lakes Ziway, Abijata and Langano are remnants, occurring at altitudes of

around 1,640 m for Ziway and 1,580 m for the other lakes. This broad flat plain is cut by the

Mareko Ridge running from Koshe to Aje to the west of the lakes. The specific site for the

proposed industrial park is characterized by similar topography of flat floored landscape.

ii. Climate The climate of the project area is characterized by a semi-arid climatic zone. The maximum

and minimum temperature of the project site ranges between 22.50C and 28.20C, and between

10.30C and 16.10C respectively. The dry season, which occurs from late October through

January, is the period of the lowest monthly daytime and night time temperatures.

The mean annual precipitation from the three adjoining meteorological stations, namely the

Adami Tulu, Bulbulla and Ziway stations, are 113.18mm, 57.34mm and 72.72mm, respectively.

Rainfall in the site and its surroundings occurs during two distinct rainy seasons, the “small”

rains and the “big” rains. The small rains, which usually begin in February and go to the end

of April, and the big rains, which are more reliable, occur from July through September.

2.2. Flora and Fauna

i. Flora As there is no significant variation in altitude and habitat range, the vegetation types of the

project area are categorized into transformed scattered woodland and open grassland. The

woodland areas are characterized by Acacia seyal, Acacia tortilis, Acacia senegal and Balanites

aegyptiaca. Along the edge of the abandoned and present cultivation areas of crops,

consistingmainly of maize, Opuntia cactus and Euphorbia tirucalli have been used as enclosures

and thus predominantly occur. The grassland areas are dominated by Cynodon dactylon,

Hypharrenia spp. and Pennisetum plicatulum (Figure 2).

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Fig. 2: Grassland areas covered by Cynodon dactylon at Bulbulla IAIP

Based on the preliminary survey conducted, a total of 10 species of plants have been recorded

within the project site (Table 1). Even though all identified species are not threatened

(according IUCN Red List Category), five of the species are included in the list of

‘useful trees and shrubs of Ethiopia’ as they are considered very important for various

purposes.

Table 1: Checklists of common plant species recorded at Bulbulla IAI

No.

Species Scientific Name Local

Name

Conservation

Status (IUCN Red

List Category)

Usefulness

Category List*

1. Acacia seyal Girar LC L

2. Acacia tortilis Girar LC L

3. Acacia senegal Girar LC L

4. Balanites aegyptiaca Bedeno LC L

5. Opuntia cactus Beles LC NL

6. Euphorbia tirucalli Kinchib LC L

7. Cynodon dactylon Sar - Grass Species

8. Hypharrenia spp. Sar - Grass Species

9. Pennisetum plicatulum. Sar - Grass Species

10. Eragrostis spp. Sar - Grass Species

Where, LC – Least Concern

*According to Azene Bekele (2007) categorization of ‘Useful Trees and Shrubs of Ethiopia’; where L= Listed; NL=

Not Listed.

ii. Fauna Surprisingly, this area is named after the African elephant (Arba – in Oromifa) since it used to

be a potential range during the 1930s. However, no wild mammal was observed during the

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field survey except foot prints of Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta) and Egyptian Mongoose

(Herpestes ichneumon). According to local informants the area is located within the home range

of various other species including Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) Aardvark (Orycteropus

afer), Common Jackal (Canis aureus), Bat-eared Fox (Otocyon megalotis), Wild Cat (Felis

sylvestris), Abyssinian Hare (Lepus habessinicus) and Crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata).

Cattle (ox, cow), sheep, goat and equids are among the domestic animals largely reared by the

local residents and thus they are part of the existing biodiversity.

This site is also a location for numerous species of birds. During the survey, 40 species, which

constitute 18 avian families, were recorded in the site and its environs (Annex1). The dominant

bird species in the area include Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling (Lamprotornis pururopterus),

Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus), White-browed Sparrow weaver (Plocepasser mahali),

Northern Masked Weaver (Ploceus taeniopterus), Fan-tailed Raven (Corvus rhipidurus), Emerald-

spotted Wood Dove (Turtur chalcospilos), Ring-necked Dove (Streptopelia capicola), Spur-winged

Plover (Vanellus spinosus), Gabar Goshawk (Melierax gabar) and Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur).

iii. Species of Conservation Concern Considering the specific project site, no threatened wild mammal is found in the area.

However, among the avian species observed at the proposed Bulbulla IAIP about 4 species of

birds (all vultures) are critically endangered or endangered and one species (Bateleur) is near

threatened though they are found abundantly throughout Ethiopia (Table 2).

Table 2: List of Threatened Bird Species of the Project Site

N

o

Species Common

Name

Scientific Name Conservation

Status (IUCN Red List

Category)

1 Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus NT

2 Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus EN

3 White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus CEN

4 Ruppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppellii CEN

5 White-headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis EN Where NT – Near Threatened; EN – Endangered; CEN – Critically Endangered

2.3. Protected and Non Protected Biodiversity Sites

i. Protected Areas According to the existing wildlife laws of Ethiopia, there are four clearly defined and one

indirectly explained category of Protected Areas (PAs) and all PAs and their IUCN

conservation status is indicated below (Table 3).

Table 3: Categories of Protected Areas (PAs) in Ethiopia and their Conservation Status

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Type of Protected

Area

Possible IUCN

Category

Definition (as per the existing wildlife laws**)

1. National Park II An area designated to conserve wildlife and

associated natural resources to preserve the scenic

and scientific value of the area which may include

lakes and other aquatic areas;

2. Sanctuary IV An area designated to conserve one or more species

of wildlife that require high conservation priority

3. Wildlife

Reserve

V An area designated to conserve wildlife where

indigenous local communities are allowed to live

together with and conserve the wildlife

4. Controlled

Hunting Area

VI An area designated to conserve wildlife and to carry

out legal and controlled hunting

5. Community

Conservation

Area *

VI PAs owned and administered by local

Communities; they can practice both consumptive

(hunting) and non consumptive (tourism)

utilization types.

*Its definitions is not directly stated in the existing laws,

**Development, Conservation and Utilization of Wildlife Proclamation (No.541/2007); Ethiopian

Wildlife Development and Conservation Authority Establishment Proclamation (No.575/2008); and

Wildlife Development, Conservation and Utilization Regulation (No.163/2008).

In this context two protected areas, Bulbullanamely: the Abijata-Shala Lakes National Park

(ASLNP) and Aluto Controlled Hunting Area (ACHA) are situated in reasonably close

proximity to the proposed IAIP site. The National Park and the Controlled Hunting Area are

located 7kms south and 7kms east of the project site, respectively (Fig. 3).

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Fig. 3: Location of the Project Area, the Surrounding PAs (ASLNP & ACHA) and Lakes

Abijata-Shala National Park The Abijata-Shala National Park was established in 1970 and is one of the Great Rift Valley

protected areas in the central part of the country situated 207 kms south of Addis Ababa. It lies

between 7022'04.8" to 7042'47.7" N and longitudes 38022'32.8" to 38040'36.4" E covering a total

area of 887 km2 that comprises of both land and water bodies (Fig. 3). Majority of the park area

(59.9%) is covered by the three lakes; namely: Lake Abijata, Lake Shalla and Lake Chitu.

The land areas are characterized by Acacia and Euphorbia woodland and riverine vegetation

cover of which Acacia woodland is dominant. The dominant tree species include Acacia tortilis,

Acacia Senegal, Acaia seyal, Acacia gerrardii, Dicrostachys cinera and Balanites aegypitiaca (Hillman,

1993b).

The park has been renowned for its rich avian diversity and being a wintering ground for

various migratory birds that visit the lakes from Europe-Asia and Africa. Recent records show

that the ASLNP provides a habitat for 439 species of birds and this represents approximately

51% of the total bird species recorded in Ethiopia.

In general, the ASLNP deserves considerable value from a biodiversity conservation

perspective. The potential value and significant features of the park are summarized as

follows:

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The ASLNP is the richest wetland in avian diversity and abundance in the country;

The park is the location for three lakes and it is one of the few protected areas of Africa

established to conserve wetland diversity;

It is one of the scenically beautiful locations of Ethiopia that comprise of hot springs

and blue lakes fringed with flat-topped Acacia trees;

It is a location of four islands that secure nesting and breeding sites for a large number

of waterfowls;

It is a place where thousands of Lesser Flamingos are observed;

The park is an important feeding ground for the Great White Pelican in the country;

It comprises 122 out of the 196 wetland bird species listed by the IWRB for eastern

Africa waterfowl census;

ASLNP serves as wintering ground for 108 palearctic migrant bird species; and

It is selected as an Important Bird Area (IBA) for holding globally threatened species,

including the Lesser Flamingo, Pallid Harrier, Basra reed warbler and Black-winged

Pratincole.

However, the ASLNP has been under serious threat from overexploitation of its natural

resources including water extraction, overgrazing, expansion of cultivation and settlements

that are accompanied by excessive deforestation, siltation, key wild habitat loss and

fragmentation as well as transformation of the natural ecosystems. These serious challenges

are still threatening much of the park area and its vegetation and water coverage has been

dwindling overtime and the population of key species is dramatically declining (Fekadu and

Abdi, 2013; EWCA, 2015; ERM and ESSD, 2013).

Taking into account the ever-increasing anthropogenic pressures in and around the park, re-

demarcation of the ASLNP is being undertaken and this process will take into consideration

the existing ecological and socio-economic conditions of the area. Following this, a General

Management Plan (GMP) that comprises of at least five programs is to be developed and be

used as a guideline for the conservation and development of the ASLNP.

Moreover, the water of Lake Abijatta has been used for soda ash production by a factory

located west of Bulbulla town. This factory abstracts two million cubic metres of water

annually and it is considered that this level of water use significantly contributes to the

declining water levels of the lake (ERM and ESSD, 2013). Considering this, a study is currently

being undertaken to determine the sustainability of the existing abstraction and Soda ash

factory.

Similarly the Bulbulla River, which connects Lake Abijatta to its main source of water the

much larger freshwater Lake Ziway, has been under pressure due to continuous unregulated

use of water by the surrounding large and small scale farms. As a result, the river has stopped

flowing along its former courses. Therefore, an initiative that involves all stakeholders and

aims at ensuring equitable and sustainable use of water has been started in which an annual

water allocation plan is to be developed and implemented.

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Aluto CHA The Aluto Controlled Hunting Area (ACHA) is one of the eighteen protected areas in Ethiopia

set aside to practice regulated hunting of wild animals. The ACHA covers 202 km2 of an area is

located about 200km South of Addis Ababa. The geographical location of the controlled

hunting area lies between: UTM 37N 467000 up to 480000 Easting and UTM 37 N 848000 up to

868000 N. The topography of the controlled hunting is characterized by hilly terrain that

ranges between 1700masl and 2367masl in altitude (Kahsay et.al, (2008); Temesgen and

Endaweke, 2014).

The vegetation of the area is mainly characterized by semi– arid zone shrubs and tree species.

The dominant woody plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Combretum molle, and Erica arborea,

Carissa edulis, Ficus sycomorus, Ficus vasta, Rhus natalensis, Acacia albida (Faidherbia albida), Acacia

tortilis and Acacia seyal.

The ACHA provides habitats for at least 22 species of mammals and 82 species of birds,

(Annex 2 and 3). It is renowned for its huntable ungulate populations. These include Greater

kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), Mountain reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula chanleri), and Common

bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus). Other wild animals found within the controlled hunting area

comprises of Leopard (Panthera pardus), Spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), Striped hyena (Hyaena

hyaena), Black backed jackal (Canais mesomelas), Bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis), Caracal (Felis

caracal) and Serval cat (Leptailurus serval).

The dominant bird species in the ACHA are White-browed sparrow weaver, Hemprich’s

hornbill, Black-shouldered kite, Black kite, Gabar goshawk, Common kestrel, Bare-faced Go-

away Bird, Black wood hoopoe and considerable number of starling and vulture species.

According to the IUCN Red Listing, six species of mammals and birds that are found in the

ACHA fall into near threatened, vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered categories.

Both Stripped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) are near threatened

and Leopard (Panthera pardus) is vulnerable. The endangered or critically endangered category

is filled by three species of vultures (Hodded, White-backed and Ruppell’s vultures).

The ACHA is currently managed by a concessionaire (hunting Company) and concerned

offices of both Federal government and the Oromia Regional States conduct a census every

three year to set quotas for hunting in order to ensure sustainable utilization. During the

census, habitat condition and associated ecological aspects are also assessed to examine the

management and conservation efforts in the area. Moreover, additional monitoring systems

are put in place in case there are environmental stresses that adversely affect natural habitats

of the hunting area.

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ii. Wetlands

The proposed Bulbulla IAIP site is located close to the Bulubula River and associated Lake

Langano and their surroundings. In the past, the Bulbulla River was known to be the main

feeder to Lake Abijatta and now days, as indicated above, the River does not flow during the

dry seasons due to unsustainable utilization of water at lake Ziway and other upstream areas.

Lake Langano is situated 11kms (~10kms of surrounding wetlands) South East of the

Industrial Park (Fig. 3). Geographically, it is located at the co-ordinates of N07° 032′ 18″ E038°

41′05.4″ and its altitude is 1586masl. It has a total surface area of 241km2 and is one of the biggest

lakes in the rift valley system of Ethiopia with an unusually reddish brown water color

because of its geological formation which is attributed to high amount of silt containing iron

compounds (Wood and Talling 1988; EWCA, 2015). The lake is known to support a high

diversity and abundance of bird species and is a feeding and roosting site of birds like the

Grey-headed Gulls, Cormorants, Herons and Pelicans.

Lake Langano and its surroundings support a population of over 20,000 waterbirds and is

used as wintering and breeding sites for a significant number of them. As a result, this lake is

recognized by Birdlife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA ET047). Recent studies

show that the lake harbours about 49 species of waterbirds (Annex 4) and majority of the

recorded species (42.9%) are migratory species, breeding either in Africa or Palaearctic region.

while a considerable number of them (34.7%) are resident and confirmed to breed in Ethiopia

(Fig. 5).

Fig. 5: Status of the Birds Recorded In the Project Site Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in Palaearctic;

R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records confirmed; PW

- breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding population and a

wintering population

Furthermore, Lake Langano supports a significant number of fish species which include Nile

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tilapia and African Catfish. However, the commercial fish catch has been declining over the

past decade indicating the population of important fish is declining overtime. The lake is also a

location for significant population of Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) though studies

show they are at their population decline stage. According to IUCN Red listing,

Hippopotamus is categorized as vulnerable. Lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) which is

threatened is also another species of conservation concern inhabiting in the lake.

The Langano Sub-Basin is a closed sub-basin sensitive to natural and human impacts. Human

impact together with changing climate is significantly affecting natural resources in the Sub-

Basin. Besides, there is a high level of water abstraction and pollution by local investments

putting pressure on ecosystems and biodiversity in the area.

Understanding the challenges posed on the water bodies like Lake Langano, the Rift Valley

Lakes Basin Integrated Resources Development Master Plan was developed about a decade

ago. Following which the Rift Valley Lakes Basin Authority (RVLBA), which is responsible to

implement the master plan, was established. The RVLBA in collaboration with stakeholders

has devised a mechanism that aims to develop a socially equitable and economically viable

water allocation plan that also recognizes ecosystem water flow requirements. Therefore, once

the designed water allocation plan is adopted by the concerned body upon agreement of all

users, relevant government offices and the wider community, it is expected to be effectively

implemented and hence ensure sustainable water use.

3. Shashemene RTC The proposed Shashemene RTC is located 250km South of Addis Ababa, on the northern

outskirts of Shashemene town. It is situated at the geographic UTM 37N 455882.924 - 456165.923

Easting and UTM 37 N 798692.665 - 799112.659 Northing (Fig. 6). This proposed RTC is the pilot

facility of the proposed network of rural transformation centres which will feed the necessary

inputs for the Bulbulla IAIP.

The proposed Shashemene RTC site is situated in the cultivation areas around Shashemene

town. Throughout the cultivation areas, there are highly scattered trees of Acacia albida, and

Croton macrostachyus and the site is more or less transformed to urban area. During the field

observation, no IUCN red data listed species were recorded and there is no protected area of

any category in the vicinity. Therefore, this RTC is neither a site of conservation concern nor a

location for biodiversity priority areas.

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Fig. 6: Location of Shashemene RTC

4. Impact Assessment and Mitigation for Bulbulla IAIP and Shashemene RTC

i) Assessment Methodology One of the main objectives of an ESIA is to predict, describe and assess impacts that may result

from project activities and identify mitigation measures and management actions to avoid,

reduce, remedy or compensate for significant adverse effects and, where practicable, to

maximize potential positive impacts and opportunities. Therefore, environmental impacts from

planned and non-planned activities associated with the proposed IAIP, during all phases of the

project, were assessed on the basis of detailed knowledge of these activities.

The nature of an impact which is defined as the type of change from baseline conditions could

be either positive or negative. However, in the context of impacts on biodiversity, the likely

positive effects are negligible and thus the assessment process, which mainly bases on

different scales of probability and severity as well as significance matrix, gives emphasis to the

negative impacts.

The impact assessment process identifies and examines the potential impacts anticipated to

result from the proposed projects and prediction methods with various rating scales were used

(See annex 6.for details). The impacts were assessed as either significant or not significant.

Those that were assessed as significant were further rated as being of minor, moderate or

major significance. For significant negative impacts mitigation measures were put in place to

reduce the residual impacts to as low as reasonably practicable levels.

Furthermore, sensitivity of the biological components was mapped based on field observation

since the significance of an impact of a given magnitude depends on the sensitivity of

resources and receptors to that impact.

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ii) Bulbulla IAIP - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures The proposed site for the Bulbulla IAIP and its surroundings is more or less transformed

through cultivation and grazing. However, there are some large trees within the agricultural

fields. These trees support a wide variety of faunal species especially birds and are considered

ecologically important. All phases of the project which comprise of site setup, fencing, site

clearance, excavation, transportation, storing and preparation of construction materials, access

road construction and erection of building structures and other industrial infrastructures as

well as activities associated with operational and decommissioning phases are expected to

have negative impacts on flora and fauna. These include: habitat destruction, deforestation,

road kills, pollution and expansion of alien species and deterioration of amount quality of

water resources. These include: loss of Acacia trees, destruction of nesting sites of birds, road

kills, pollution and expansion of alien species. Additionally, there will be erosion and loss of

top soil during soil excavation and also potential contamination of some flora due to spill over

of some construction chemicals.

Four species of critically endangered and endangered vultures are known to habitat the area

within which the Bulbulla IAIP is situated. . These species can be attracted by wastes around

camps and collide with the existing / future power lines. The area is also situated within the

flyway of migratory birds in the Great Rift Valley, there is therefore the potential that some

construction infrastructures may affect the migration route.

Contamination of the ecosystem during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines and

associated infrastructures as well as abandonment of roads and rehabilitation of affected areas

are the impacts that need to be addressed in the decommissioning stage. Generally, the

potential impacts in all phases of the envisaged IAIP and their mitigation measures are

summarized in the table below (Table 4).

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Table 4: Biodiversity Impact Assessment of Bulbulla IAIP

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Receptor

Description Sta

ge Cha

racter

Ease of

Mitigation

Pre-Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure Post-Mitigation

Impact Number

Probabilit

y

Severity

Significanc

e Description

Probabilit

y

Severity

Significance

Impact 1

Biodiversity (Fauna & Flora)

Loss of Acacia trees

Construction

Negative

Moderate

3 2 6 Avoiding damage to and loss of large mature trees and minimize vegetation clearance as much as possible;

Rehabilitating and re-vegetating the areas affected during construction process.

2 1 2

Significance N3 - Moderate Significance N2 - Minor

Impact 2

Biodiversity ( Fauna & Flora)

Nesting sites destruction Construction

Negative

Moderate

3 2 6 Avoiding damage to nesting sites;

Minimize numbers of temporary camps during construction phase;

Identification and monitoring of main nesting sites.

2 1 2


Impact 3

Biodiversity (Fauna)

Road kills Construction

Negative

Moderate

2 2 4 Establishing speed bumpers and precaution sign posts on the sensitive wild animal crossing points;

Launching awareness creation programs for the construction staff.

2 1 2

Significance N2 - Minor Significance N2 - Minor

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Impact 4

Fauna Pollution Construction

Negative

High 2 3 6 Developing effective management of waste and hazardous materials;

All fine earth materials must be enclosed during transportation to the site to prevent spillage and dusting;

Spilled earth and construction material on the main roads should be cleaned up regularly;

The transportation of lubricants and fuel to the construction site should only be done in the appropriate vehicles and containers;

All machinery must be keenly observed not to leak oils on the ground and

maintenance must be operated/carried out in a designated area (protected service bays) and where oils are completely restrained from reaching the ground.

2 2 4


Impact 5

Biodiversity/Ecosystem Maintenance

Expansion of alien species

Construction

Negative

Moderate

2 2 4 Avoiding introduction of materials from areas where alien species occur and make sure that there are no new succession of exotic ones;

Undertake local monitoring on habitat change/prevalence of invasive species.

2 1 2


OPERATIONAL Imp

act Numb

er Receptor

Description Stage Charac

ter

Ease of

Mitigation


Probabilit

y

Severity

Significanc

e

Impact Number Probabilit

y

Severity

Significance

Impact 1

Biodiversity Re-vegetation of indigenous plant species in greenery areas

operational

Negative

Moderate

4 2 8 Appropriate selection of natural vegetation.

4 2 8

Significance P3 - Moderate

P3 - Moderate

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Impact 2

Biodiversity/Avian fauna

Disturbance and Electrocutions of avian species

operational

Negative

Moderate

1 4 4 Undertake monitoring of the birds & their flyway on regular basis;

Use of birds friendly power lines and associated infrastructures.

1 2 2


Impact 3


Deterioration of water resources/quality

operational

Negative

Moderate

3 3 9 Developing effective watershed management plan for the area;

Support watershed conservation efforts in and around the project area;

Avoiding any uncontrolled drainage towards the surrounding water features;

Developing effective management of waste and hazardous materials as per the WMP.

2 2 4


Impact 4


Attraction of wild animals by wastes

operational

Negative

Moderate

3 2 6 Launching awareness creation programs for the whole staff;

Avoiding feeding and any contact with wild animals.

Adoption of conventional sewage treatment facilities and solid waste management;

2 2 4


DECOMISSIONING Impact 1


Contamination of the ecosystem during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures;

Decommissioning

Negative

Moderate

1 2 2 Adoption of conventional sewage treatment facilities and solid waste management;

1 1 1

Significance N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible

Impact 2


Abandonment of roads and rehabilitation of affected areas

Decommissioning

Negative

Positive

High 2 1 1 Undertake environmentally friendly restoration mechanisms

2 1 2

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Significance P2 - Minor

P2 - Minor

CUMULATIVE

Impact 1


Erosion and top soil removal during excavation

Construction

Negative

Moderate

1 2 2 Avoiding creation of access to areas would lead to soil erosion;

Restore removed soils and recover exposed ones with grass and other appropriate species as soon as possible;

Use of biological soil and water conservation mechanisms.

1 1 1


Impact 2


Alteration of the watershed of the area

Construction/Operational

Negative

Moderate

2 2 4 Developing effective watershed management plan for the area;

Avoiding creation of access to steep slopes that would scar the landscape or lead to soil erosion;

Support watershed conservation efforts in and around the project area.

1 2 2

N2 - Minor N2 - Minor

17

Based on the mapping, biodiversity sensitivity of the proposed Bulbulla IAIP is defined as

medium high, medium and medium low (Fig. 10).

Fig. 10: Biodiversity sensitivity map of Bulbulla IAIP

iii) Shashemene RTC - Impact Description and Mitigation Measures Shashemene RTC site is situated in the cultivation areas around Shashemene town.

Throughout the cultivation areas, there are highly scattered trees of Acacia albida, and Croton

macrostachyus and the site is more or less transformed to either cultivated and urbanized area.

It is however to note that there are some impacts that need to be taken into consideration. The

negative impacts that could be resulted from all phases of the proposed project include: loss of

the indigenous trees mentioned above, pollution and attraction of scavenger wild animals by

wastes and contamination of the area during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines

and associated infrastructures of the decommissioning phase.

Generally, the impact associated with the proposed Shashemene RTC is either very low or

negligible (Table 5) since there are no sensitive areas in the context of biodiversity

conservation.

18

Table 5: Biodiversity Impact Assessment of Shashemene RTC

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Receptor

Description Sta

ge Cha

racter

Ease of

Mitigation


Impact Number

Probabilit

y

Severity

Significanc

e Description

Probabilit

y

Severity

Significance

Impact 1


Loss of indigenous trees Construction

Negative

Moderate

2 2 4 Avoiding damage to and loss of large mature trees as much as possible;

Rehabilitating and re-vegetating the areas affected during construction process;

1 1 1

Significance N2 - Minor Significance N1 - Negligible

Impact 2


Pollution Construction

Negative

Moderate

2 3 6 All fine earth materials must be enclosed during transportation to the site to prevent spillage and dusting;


Trucks used during construction should be fitted with tailgates that close properly and with tarpaulins to cover the materials;

The transportation of lubricants and fuel to the construction site should only be done in the appropriate vehicles and containers;

All machinery must be keenly observed not to leak oils on the ground (use of drip trays recommended)

2 1 2


19

OPERATIONAL Imp

act Numb

er Receptor

Description Stage Charac

ter

Ease of

Mitigation


Probabilit

y

Severity

Significanc

e

Impact Number Probabilit

y

Severity

Significance

Impact 1

Biodiversity Re-vegetation of indigenous plant species in greenery areas

operational

Negative

Moderate

4 2 8 Appropriate selection of natural vegetation ;

4 2 8

Significance P3 - Moderate

P3 - Moderate

Impact 2


Attraction of scavenger wild animals by wastes

operational

Negative

Moderate

3 2 6 Launching awareness creation programs for the whole staff;

Adoption of conventional sewage treatment facilities and solid waste management;

2 1 2


DECOMISSIONING Impact 1


Contamination of the area during replacement of machineries, removal of pipelines and associated infrastructures;

Decommissioning

Negative

Moderate

1 2 2 Adoption of conventional sewage treatment facilities and solid waste management;

1 1 1


Impact 2


Rehabilitation of affected areas

Decommissioning

Negative

Positive

Moderate

2 1 2 Undertake environmentally friendly restoration mechanisms

2 1 2

Significance P2 - Minor

P2 - Minor

CUMULATIVE

20

Impact 1


Erosion and top soil removal during excavation

Construction

Negative

Moderate

1 2 2 Restore removed soils and recover exposed ones with grass and other appropriate species as soon as possible;

Use of biological soil and water conservation mechanisms.

1 1 1


Impact 2


Contamination of the ecosystem due to spill over and dusting of some construction materials and wastes

Construction/Operational

Negative

Moderate

2 2 4 All fine earth materials must be enclosed during transportation to the site to prevent spillage and dusting;


Trucks used during construction should be fitted with tailgates that close properly and with tarpaulins to cover the materials

1 1 1

N2 - Minor N1 - Negligible

21

iv) Residual Impacts and Conclusion Generally, effective application of the aforementioned mitigation measures by the project

teams is expected to reduce the potential negative impacts associated with the Bulbulla IAIP

and Shashemene RTC projects to minor or negligible level.

Therefore, the potential impacts associated with the proposed projects can be considerably

minimized provided that the recommended mitigation measures are properly applied.

Moreover, the activities associated with the projects need to be monitored at all phases in order

to identify unpredicted impacts and take corrective measures.

22

5. REFERENCES/ Bibliography AEWA (2012). AEWA Plan of Action for Africa 2012-2017: A guide to the implementation of the AEWA

Strategic Plan 2009-2017. Adopted by the 5th Session of the Meeting of the Parties to AEWA

(MOP5), 14 - 18 May 2012, La Rochelle, France.

Bekele A., Birnie A., and Tengnäs B. (1993). Useful trees and shrubs for Ethiopia: Identification,

propagation, and management for agricultural and pastoral communities. Regional soil conservation

unit, Swedish International Developments Authority.

EEPCo 2011/12. Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation: Facts in Brief

EPA in Collaboration with MEDaC (1997). "The Environmental Policy of Ethiopia". Addis Ababa,

Ethiopia.

ERM and ESSD (2013). Report on Rift Basin Area Block 2D Seismic Survey EIA, African Oil Ethiopia,

BV.

Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2014). Report on the implementation of AEWA

for the period 2012-2014 EWCA, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 26pp.

Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2009). Assessment of the Value of the Protected

Area system of Ethiopia, “Making the Economic Case”, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) (2014). National Ivory Action Plan of Ethiopia.

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) (2005). Wildlife Strategy of Ethiopia. FDRE, Addis

Ababa. 11PP.

Fekadu D., Abdi I. (2010). Ecological Assessment for the re-demarcation of Abijata Shalla lakes

National Park, EWCA. Halcrow Group Limited and Generation Integrated Rural Development (GIRD) Consultants (2009).

Rift Valley Lakes Basin (RVLB) Integrated Resources Development Master Plan Study Project.

Hillman, J.C. (1993b). Ethiopia: Compendium of wildlife conservation information. Vol.2: Information

on wildlife conservation areas. NYZS-The wildlife conservation Society- International, New York.

Institute of Biodiversity Conservation (IBC now EIB, 2012). National Biodiversity Strategy and Action

Plan (NBSAP).

Institute of Biodiversity Conservation (IBC now EIB, 2005). National Biodiversity Strategy and Action

Plan (NBSAP).

Kahumbu, P., Mbuthia, B. J. and Drori, O. (2013). Scoping study on the prosecution of wildlife related

crimes in Kenyan courts January 2008 to June 2013. Wildlife Direct, Washington DC, USA, 32pp.

Kahsay G.A. Mihret E. and Alemayehu D. (2008). Report of Wildlife Census in Aluto Open Hunting

Area, WCD,Addis Ababa.

Kahsay G.A (2017). Biological Baseline Report as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment Study

on the Proposed Geo-Thermal Power Plant and Transmission Line, Aluto.

Kingdon J. (1997). Kingdon Field Guide to Mamals of Africa. Academic Press, London.

Ministry of Water Resources (2008). Rift Valley Lakes Basin Integrated Resources Development Master

Plan Study Project, Halcrow Group Ltd. & GRID Consultants.

Negarit Gazeta (1994). A Proclamation to Provide for the Conservation, Development and Utilization

of Forests. No. 94 of 1994, No. 80, 28 March, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Negarit Gazeta Proclamation No. 541/2007 on wildlife conservation.

Negarit Gazeta Wildlife Conservation Authority Establishment Proclamation No. 575/2008.

Negarit Gazeta Regulation No 163/2009 of the Council of Ministers proclaimed to determine wildlife

conservation and utilization.

Negarit Gazeta Wildlife Conservation Regulation No. 545/1974 as amended.

Nigel R., Terry S. John F. John G. and Brian S. (2009). Birds of the Horn of Africa.

Taye A. (2008). Digest of Ethiopia’s Policies, Strategies and Programs.

23

Temesgen Y. and Endaweke W. (2014). Report on Evaluation and Monitoring of Aluto Controlled

Hunting area, EWCA, Addis Ababa.

Tole, M. P. (1997) Eds. “Environmental Impact Assessment in Kenya: Theory and Practice. Proceedings

of the Environmental Impact Assessment Seminar, August 1996,” School of Environmental

Studies, Moi University .

Wood J. F. and Talling I (1965) (Cited in ERM and ESSD (2013). The chemical composition of

African lake waters. Int. Revue ges. Hydrobiol. 50:421-463.

World Bank Group (2007). Environmental, Health and Safety Guideline.

24

6. Annexes

Annex1: Checklist of the Birds of the Project Site (Bulbulla IAIP) and its Surroundings

Source: Field survey (2017)

No. Family Name English Name Scientific Name

1 Ardeidae Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

2 Ciconiidae Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus

3 Accipitridae Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus

4 Hooded Vulture** Necrosyrtes monachus

5 White-backed Vulture*** Gyps africanus

6 Ruppell’s Vulture*** Gyps rueppellii

7 White-headed Vulture** Trigonoceps occipitalis

8 Bateleur* Terathopius ecaudatus

9 Gabar Goshawk Melierax gabar

10 Augur Buzzard Buteo augur

11 Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis

12 Charadriidae Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus

13 Crowned Plover Vanellus coronatus

14 Petroclididae Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus

15 Columbidae Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea

16 Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola

17 Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos

18 Musophagidae White-bellied Go-away Bird Corythaixoides leucogaster

19 Collidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus

20 Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus

21 Coraciidae Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinica

22 Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata

23 Upupidae Hoopoe Upupa epops

24 Bucerotidae Hemprich’s Hornbill Tockus hemprichii

25 Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorohynchus

26 Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus

27 Red-fronted Barbet Tricholaema diademata

28 Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus

29 Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis

30 Corvidae Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus

31 Sturnidae Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus

32 Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling Lamprotornis purpuropterus

33 Superb Starling Lamprotornis superbus

34 Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erithrorhynchus

35 Passeridae Swainson’s Sparrow Passer swainsonii

36 Ploceidae White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia dinemelli

37 White-browed Sparrow Plocepasser mahali

25

weaver

38 Northern Masked Weaver Ploceus taeniopterus

39 Estrildidae Red-billed Fire finch Lagonosticta senegala

40 Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus

*** Critically Endangered; **Endangered; *Near Threatened

Annex2: List of Larger Mammal Species of Aluto CHA

Source: Kahsay et.al, (2008) and Kahsay (2017)

No Species

Common Name

Scientific Name Conservation

Status (IUCN Red List

Category)

1 1 Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros LC

2 Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula chanleri LC

3 Common Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus LC

4 Grey Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia LC

5 Klipspringer Oreotragus oreaotragus LC

6 Abyssinian hare Lepus habessinicus LC

7 3 Anubis Baboon Papio Anubis LC

8 Vervet Monkey Cercopithecus aethiops pygerythrus LC

9 4 Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus LC

10 5 Spotted Hyena Crocuta crocuta LC

11 6 Stripped Hyena Hyaena hyaena NT

12 6 Leopard Panthera pardus VU

13 Serval Cat Leptailurus serval LC

14 7 Caracal Felis caracal LC

15 Common Genet Genetta genetta LC

16 African Civet Civettictis civetta LC

17 Wild Cat Felis sylvestris LC

18 Honey Badger Mellivora capensis LC

19 Common Jackal Canis aureus LC

20 Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis LC

21 9 Aardvark Orycteropus afer LC

22 1

0

Rock Hyrax Procavia habessinica LC

LC – Least Concern; NT – Near Threatened; VU - Vulnerable

26

Annex 3: Checklist of the Birds of Aluto Controlled Hunting Areas

Source: Kahsay et.al, (2008) and Kahsay (2017)

No. Family Name English Name Scientific Name Status/R

ange

1 Accipitridae Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus RB

2 Black Kite Milvus migrans MB/PW

3 Hooded Vulture** Necrosyrtes monachus RB

4 White-backed Vulture*** Gyps africanus RB

5 Ruppell’s Vulture*** Gyps rueppellii RB

6 Bateleur* Terathopius ecaudatus RB

7 Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates RB

8 Gabar Goshawk Melierax gabar RB

9 Augur Buzzard Buteo augur RB

10 Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax RB

11 Falconidae Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus RB/PW

12 Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus RB

13 Phasianidae Crested Francolin Francolinus sephaena RB

14 Clapperton’s Francolin Francolinus clappertoni RB

15 Charadriidae Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus RB

16 Black-winged Plover Vanellus melanopterus RB

17 Crowned Plover Vanellus coronatus RB

18 Petroclididae Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus RB

19 Columbidae Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea RB

20 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis RB

21 African Mourning Dove Streptopelia decipiens RB

22 Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola RB

23 Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata RB

24 Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos RB

25 Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer MB

26 Namaqua Dove Oena capensis RB

27 Psittacidae Orange-bellied Parrot Poicephalus rufiventris RB

28 Black-winged Lovebird Agapornis taranta RB

29 Musophagidae Bare-faced Go-away Bird Corythaixoides personatus RB

30 White-bellied Go-away Bird Corythaixoides leucogaster RB

31 Caprimulgidae Mountain Nightjar Caprimulgus poliocephalus RB

32 Apodidae Little Swift Apus affinis RB

33 African White-ramped Swift Apus caffer RB

34 Collidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus RB

35 Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus RB

36 Alcedinidae Striped Kingfisher Halcyol chelicuti RB

27

37 Meropidae Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus RB

38 Northern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicus MB

39 Coraciidae Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinica MB

40 Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata RB

41 Phoeniculidae Black Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus aterrimus RB

42 Upupidae Hoopoe Upupa epops RB/PW

43 Bucerotidae Hemprich’s Hornbill Tockus hemprichii RB

44 Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorohynchus RB

45 Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Bucorvus abyssinicus RB

46 Lybiidae Red-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus RB

47 Red-fronted Barbet Tricholaema diademata RB

48 Hirundanidae Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera RB

49 Red-ramped Swallow Hirundo daurica RB/PW

50 African Rock Martin Hirundo fuligula RB/P

51 Motacillidae Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea PW

52 African Grassland Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus RB

53 Pycnonotidae Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus RB

54 Turdidae Ruppell’s Robin-chat Cossypha semirufa RB

55 Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris RB

56 Pied Wheatear Oenanthe phillipsi PW

57 Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina PW

58 Muscicapidae Slaty Flycatcher Melaenornis chocolatinus RB

59 Platysteiridae Black-headed Batis Batis minor RB

60 Timaliidae White-rumped Babbler Turdoides leucopygius RB

61 Nectariniidae Scarlet-chested Sunbird Nectarinia senegalensis RB

62 Tacazze Sunbird Nectarinia tacazze RB

63 Malaconotidae Orange-breasted Bush Shrike Malacomotus supfureopectus RB

64 Grey-headed Bush Shrike Malacomotus blanchoti RB

65 Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis RB

66 Corvidae Fan-tailed Raven Corvus rhipidurus RB

67 Sturnidae Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio RB

68 Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus RB

69 Ruppell’s Long-tailed Starling Lamprotornis purpuropterus RB

70 Superb Starling Lamprotornis superbus RB

71 Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogas M

72 Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erithrorhynchus RB

73 Passeridae Swainson’s Sparrow Passer swainsonii R

74 Ploceidae White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia dinemelli RB

75 White-browed Sparrow

weaver

Plocepasser mahali RB

76 Northern Masked Weaver Ploceus taeniopterus R

28

77 Ruppell’s Weaver Ploceus galbula RB

78 Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus RB

79 Chestnut Weaver Ploceus rubiginosus RB

80 Estrildidae Red-billed Fire finch Lagonosticta senegala RB

81 Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus RB

82 Fringillidae Rechinow’s Seed Eater Serinus reichenowi RB

*** Critically Endangered; **Endangered; *Near Threatened

Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in Palaearctic;

R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records confirmed; PW

- breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding population and a

wintering population

Annex 4: Water Birds Recorded Lake Langano

Sources: EWCA’s Waterbirds Count 2011 and 2015

No. Species Common Name Scientific Name

Range/Migrati

on Status

1 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis RB

2 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo RB

3 Long-tailed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus RB

4 Great White Pelican Pelicanus onocrotalus RB

5 Pink-backed Pelican Pelicanus rufescens RB

6 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis MB

7 Little Egret Egretta garzetta R

8 Yellow-billed Egret Mesophoyx intermedia RB

9 Great Egret Casmerodius albus R

10 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea RB/PW

11 Goliath Heron Ardea golith RB

12 Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis R

13 Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus RB

14 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R

15 Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus MB

16 African Spoonbill Platalea alba RB

17 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus RB

18 Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis R

19 Northern Pintail Anas acuta PW

20 Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota R

21 Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata PW

22 African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer RB

23 Lesser Moorhen Gallinula angulata R

24 Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata RB

25 Black-winged Stilt Himontopus himantopus RB/PW

26 Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta PW

29

27 Senegal Thick-nee Burhinus senegallus RB

28 Little Ringed Plover Charadriusdubius PW

29 Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula P

30 Kittlitz's Sand Plover Charadrius pecuarius RB

31 Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus RB

32 Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris RB

33 Caspian Plover Charadrius asiaticus P

34 Little Stint Calidris minuta PW

35 Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii PW

36 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea P

37 Ruff Philomachus puganax PW

38 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago PW

39 Black-tailed Godwit Lomosa limosa PW

40 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis PW

41 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia PW

42 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus PW

43 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola PW

44 Common Sandpiper Tringa hypoleucos PW

45 Grey-headed Gull Luarus cirrocephalus RB

46 Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus P

47 Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus PW

48 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica PW

49 White-winged Black Tern Chilidonias leucopterus PW Where B- Breeding record confirmed; M - Migrant including on passage through Ethiopia; P - Breeds in

Palaearctic; R – Resident; W - Winters (non-breeding season); RB - Resident in the country and breeding records

confirmed; PW - breeds in the Palearctic and winters in the country; RB/PW - there is both a resident breeding

population and a wintering population

1

Annex 5: Impact Scoring/Rating Definitions

Negative Positive Negligible Negligible 1

Minor Minor 2-4

Moderate Moderate 6-9

Major Major 12-16

Rating Scale Description

1

Unlikely - very improbable, never heard of in the industry, or an event with a short duration (probably will not happen).

2

Low probability - incident has occurred in the industry and so therefore could occur, or an event lasting up to a day (some possibility, but low likelihood).

3

Medium Probability - incident has (or is) expected to occur during the project or is very likely to, or an event which may occur up to 1 month (distinct possibility).

4

High probability - incident is expected to happen frequently a year or is almost certain to happen, or an event which is expected to occur multiple times (most likely).

ENVIRONMENTAL RECEPTORS – PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL

CATEGORY NEGATIVE POSITIVE

4 High (Negative)

Major, long term national, international or transboundary effects. Baseline will be significantly improved by the project.

Deterioration/improvements of the existing habitat or ecosystem baseline conditions is significant.

Results in changes / increase in the abundance and biodiversity of populations.

2

Rehabilitation is required or the baseline will not recover. Exceed national and international regulatory standards in protection and creation of natural habitats.

Results in changes / reduction in the abundance and biodiversity of populations which may or may not recover.

Such impacts are a major non-compliance with national and international regulatory standards and may result in immediate intervention by governmental bodies and stakeholders.

3 Medium (Negative)

Moderate, medium term deterioration / impact on the ecosystem on a local / national level, leading to observable and measurable changes (negative).

Moderate, medium term rehabilitation of ecosystems or national significance, leading to observable and measurable changes.

Moderate deterioration/improvements and changes / reduction in the abundance and biodiversity of the area with moderate recovery periods to baseline conditions.

Moderate deterioration/improvements and changes / increase in the abundance and biodiversity of the area with moderate recovery periods to baseline conditions.

Non-conformance with national and international regulatory standards which may result in the intervention by governmental bodies and stakeholders.

Conformance with national and international regulatory standards.

3

2 Low (negative)

An effect will be experienced but they will be minor, short term and local, leading to observable and measurable changes recoverable within short durations.

An effect will be experienced but they will be minor, short term and local, leading to observable and measurable changes recoverable within short durations.

Potential non-conformance with regulatory standards. Unlikely to result in concerns being raised by governmental bodies or stakeholders.

Partial conformance with regulatory standards. Meets governmental and stakeholder requirements.

Minor deterioration of ambient environmental conditions and recovery requires little or no intervention.

Minor improvements to ambient environmental conditions.

1 Very Low (positive/negative)

Deemed ‘imperceptible’ or indistinguishable from natural background conditions. No public interest.

Deemed ‘imperceptible’ or indistinguishable from natural background conditions. No public interest.

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