HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN – AUGUST 2019

FOOTPRINT Environmental Services

HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN

The acid sands of marine origins and the Malmesbury shales of the Swartland meet at Hopefield. Here, the interplay of soil types and water permeability of these substrates as well as the climatic influence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean leads to unique habitats and many seasonal wetlands. Thus, the area has many interesting endemic and threatened plant taxa and it is no surprise that Hopefield is now

renowned for its annual flower show which is run by a passionate and knowledgeable group of local volunteers (Maree and Vromans 2010).

AUGUST 2019



Compiled by

Charl du Plessis & Sean Ranger


Porterville



AUTHORISATION The management authority assigned in terms of Section 38 (1) or (2) of the Act must, within 12 months of assignment submit a management plan of the Protected Area to

the MEC for approval.

Recommended and approved by the Municipal Manager, Saldanha Bay Municipality.

Name Resolution Number Date

Municipal Manager

Saldanha Municipality

……………………….

MEC Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning

Name Signature Date

Department of Environmental Affairs

and Development Planning

Mr Anton Bredell

PROVINCIAL MINISTER



i) Copyright and Disclaimer

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and the unauthorised copying thereof or making of extracts thereof is illegal.

Any representation, statement opinion, or advice expressed or implied in this document

is made in good faith on the basis that FES, its agents and employees are not liable

(whether by reason of negliglence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any

damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person

taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any representation,

statement or advice referred to above.

Although the greatest care has been taken to ensure that all mapping data is up to

date and spatially accurate, FES give no warranty, express or implied, as to the

accuracy, reliability, utility or completeness of this data. Users of the data in this report

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information contained in this report.



ii) Acknowledgements

The Saldanha Bay Municipality (SBM) expresses its thanks to all who participated in

and who provided comment and input in the drafting and development of this

management plan.

The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve (HPNR) Protected Area Management Plan

(PAMP) was prepared by Cedarberg Conservation Services (t/a FOOTPRINT

Environmental Services). Our thanks in particular to Nazeema Duarte from the SBM

for her support.



iii) Table of contents

i) Copyright and disclaimer 4

ii) Acknowledgements 5

iii) Table of contents 6

iv) List of tables 12

v) List of figures 12

vi) List of attachments 12

vii) Abbreviations 12

SECTION 1 : INTRODUCTION 15

1.1 The purpose of the plan 15

1.2 Structure of the plan 15

1.3 Adaptive management 18

SECTION 2 : OVERVIEW OF THE HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

19

2.1 Cultural heritage resources and landscape grading 20

2.2 Biophysical description 20

2.2.1 Climate 22

2.2.2 Geology, topography and soils 22

2.3 Biodiversity 23

2.3.1 Mammal fauna 23

2.3.2 Vegetation 24

2.3.3 Avifauna 26

2.3.4 Herpetofauna 27



2.3.5 Invertebrates 27

2.3.6 Fire regime 27

2.3.7 Alien Invasive Species 29

2.4 Socio-political Context 29

2.5 Local and Regional Planning Context 31

2.5.1 Regional Planning 31

2.5.2 Local Planning 32

SECTION 3 : LEGAL STATUS 36

3.1 Legal status 36

3.1.1 Name and legal designations 36

3.1.2 Contractual agreements 36

3.1.3 Location, extent and highest point 36

3.1.4 Municipal jurisdiction 37

SECTION 4 : POLICY FRAMEWORK 39

4.1 Financial 39

4.2 Biodiversity management 39

4.3 Safety and security 39

4.4 Resource use and community involvement 40

4.5 Cultural resource management 40

4.6 Neighbouring relationships 41

4.7 Baseline data, monitoring and research 41

4.8 Access 41

4.9 Administration support 42



4.10 METT Assessments 42

4.11 Internal Rules 43

4.12 Environmental Education and Awareness 43

4.13 Infrastructure management and maintenance 43

SECTION 5: CONSULTATION 44

5.1 Stakeholder Engagement Process 44

5.2 Establishment of a Protected Area Advisory Committee (PAAC) 45

5.3 Effective participation in the Protected Area Advisory Committee (PAAC)

45

SECTION 6: PURPOSE and VISION 46

6.1 Key determining factors 46

6.1.1 Local connectivity 47

6.1.2 Vegetation 47

6.1.3 Other values 47

6.2 Management Intent 48

6.3 Purpose 48

6.4 Threats 49

6.5 Summary of management challenges 50

6.6 Vision 53

6.7 Goals and objectives 53

SECTION 7 – ZONING PLAN 62

7.1 Protected Area in the Context of Municipal Integrated Development Planning

62

7.2 Protected Area Zonation 63



7.3 Protected Area Zone of Influence 64

SECTION 8 – ACCESS AND FACILITIES 66

8.1 Public Access and Management 66

8.2 Flight corridors 66

8.3 Administrative and other facilities 66

8.3.1 Roads 67

8.3.2. Buildings 67

8.3.3 Fences 67

8.3.4 Signage 67

8.4 Commercial Activities 67

8.5 Servitudes 68

SECTION 9 – EXPANSION STRATEGY 69

SECTION 10 – CONCEPT DEVELOPENT PLAN 70

SECTION 11 – STRATEGIC PLAN 71

11.1 Programme: Indigenous vegetation management 71

11.1.1 Project: Plant species list 71

11.1.2 Research and other scientific papers 72

11.2 Programme: Rare, Endangered and Endemic Plant species 72

11.2.1 Project: Map the distribution 72

11.3 Programme: Alien invasive species management 73

10.3.1 Project: Implement available management plan 73

11.4 Programme: Fire Management 74

11.4.1 Membership to the Greater Cederberg Fire Protection

Association 74



11.4.2 Project : Firebreaks 75

11.4.3 Project: Fire prevention 75

11.5 Programme: Terrestrial Fauna Species 76

11.5.1 Project: Species list 76

11.5.2 Project: Re-introduction of game species 76

11.5.3 Project: Research and other scientific papers 76

11.5.4 Project: Prevent impacts on terrestrial and marine species 77

11. 6 Programme: Restoration Ecology 77

11.6.1 Project: Map all disturbed areas 77

11.6.2 Project: Rehabilitation 78

11.7 Program: Cultural historical, archaeological and palaeontological

heritage 79

11.7.1 Project: Map and evaluate assets 79

11.8 Program: Baseline data collection 79

11.8.1 Project: Develop and implement a baseline data collection plan 80

11.9 Program: Monitoring 80

11.9.1 Project: Develop and implement a monitoring plan 80

11.10 Program: Research 80

11.10.1. Project: Promote research opportunities 80

11.11. Program: Roads 81

11.11.1. Project: Road Maintenance 81

11.12 Program: Fences and law enforcement 81

11.12.1 Project: Improve current state of fence 81

11.12.2 Project: Law Enforcement 82



11.13 Program: Development 83

11.13.1 Project: Development of facilities 83

11.13.2 Project: Development of the optimal staff organogram 83

11.13.3 Project: Staff development 83

SECTION 12 - COSTING PLAN 85

SECTION 13 - REFERENCES 87



List of Tables

1 Land and Resource use guidelines for Critical Biodiversity Areas

34

2 Key deliverables, objectives and strategies 55

3 Zonation guidelines for HPNR 63

List of Figures

1 The Adaptive Management Cycle (CSIRO 2012) 18

2 Locality of Hopefield Private Nature Reserve 20

3 Geology and Topography 23

4 Vegetation Types 26

5 Hopefield Private Nature Reserve Critical Biodiversity Area. 33

6 Infrastructure 68

7 Fire break plan 74

iv) List of Attachments

1 PN 337 of the 7th May o1982

2 Proposed Terms of Reference for the PAAC

3 Stakeholder Engagement Process

4 Environmental Authorisation by DEA&DP

5 Forms to complete for Baseline data and Monitoring

6 Costing Plan



v) Abbreviations

APO Annual Plan of Operation

BSP Biodiversity Sector Plan

CBA Critical Biodiversity Area

CESA Critically Ecological Support Area

CESP Critical Ecological Support Areas

CREW Custodians for Rare and Endangered Wildflowers

CN CapeNature

ESA Ecological Support Areas

FES FOOTPRINT Environmental Services

GIS Geographic Information System

GCFR Greater Cape Floristic Region

CFR Cape Floristic Region

GCFPA Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association

HIA Heritage Impact Assessment

HPNR Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

IDP Integrated Development Plan

MSA Municipal System Act (Act No.32 of 2000)

METT Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool

NEMBA National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act

NID Notice of Intent to Develop

PA Protected Area

PAAC Protected Area Advisory Committee

PAMP Protected Area Management Plan

PN Provincial Notice



SAHRA South African Heritage Resource Agency

SAPS South Africa Police Services

SBM Saldanha Bay Municipality

SPCA Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals

TOR Terms of Reference

Vu Vulnerable



SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION

1.1 The purpose of the plan

The submission of a management plan (Hopefield Private Nature Reserve) by the

Management Authority (Saldanha Bay Municipality), is a requirement in terms of

Section 39 (2) of the National Management Environmental Protected Areas Act, 2003.

The purpose of a management plan, in terms of this section of the Act, is to guide the

development and management of the PA in such a way that it meets the purpose for

which it was declared (Gowan & Mpongoma 2011).

1.2 Structure of the Plan

This PAMP is structured to adhere to the guidelines set for the development of a

Management Plan for a Protected Area in terms of the National Environmental

Protected Areas Act, Act 2003 (Gowan & Mpongoma 2011).

The plan itself is structured in the following way;

Section 1 – Introduction

This section deals with the purpose, structure of this PAMP and adaptive management

principles of the HPNR PAMP.

Section 2 – Overview of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

This section provides a brief overview of the HPNR, the cultural heritage resources

and landscape grading, biophysical description, biodiversity socio-political, local and

regional planning.



Section 3 - Legal status

Section 3 provides a record of the legal status of the protected area, its description and

location. This section deals with property and title deed information, it provides

information on contractual agreements, locality, extent, topography, municipal

jurisdiction and international, national and provincial listings.

Section 4 – Policy framework

This section describes the policy framework of the Saldanha Bay Municipality that is

relevant to the management and implementation of the HPNR PAMP. These policies

will support the effective implementation of this PAMP by the SBM.

Section 5 – Consultation

This section deals with the public participation process as well as the establishment of

the Protected Areas Advisory Committee (PAAC) and the management of this

committee. These to comply to Sections 39(3) and 41 (2)(e) of the Act.

Section 6 - Purpose and the vision

This section describes the purpose and vision for HPNR and sets out the baseline on

which the management plan is developed. It includes the key determining factors,

management intent, purpose, threats, management challenges, vision, goals and

objectives of HPNR. These to comply with Sections 17 and 23(2) of the Act.

Section 7 – Zoning plan

This section describes various zonation’s for the PA and the activities which are

allowed in the different zones. It notes the conservation objectives for each of these

zones as well as the identification of the Protected Area Zone of Influence.



Section 8 – Access and facilities

The section provides information on the current access to HPNR, controls required for

access and includes aspects related to access, administration and support to the PA,

flight corridors, community use and servitudes, to ensure compliance to Section

41(2)(f), 46, 50 and 53(b) of the Act.

Section 9 – Expansion strategy

This section deals with a potential expansion strategy. However, and with due

consideration, the key recommendation is that for the duration of this plan the SBM

should focus on building good relationships with surrounding landowners.

Section 10 - Concept development plan

The concept development plan identified the immediate development needs for the

PA. Importantly any further development may not affect the declaration purpose or

any key determining factors of the PA. This to ensure compliance to Section 41(2)(c)

of the Act.

Section 11 – Strategic Plan

This section adheres to Section 41, 76, 43 of the Act and provides operational

information for implementation over the next five (5) year planning period. This section

deals with various programmes, projects, actions and assigns responsibilities to the

SBM and additionally provides timelines for implementation.

Section 12 - Costing plan

This section contains information on preparing budgets, the submission of budgets and

securing additional funds.



1.3 Adaptive Management for the HPNR

In the process of preparing and implementing this PAMP the guiding principles of

adaptive management should be considered at all times. This is a structured, iterative

process in which decisions are made using the best available information, with the aim

of obtaining better information through monitoring of performance (See Figure 1 –

Adaptive Management). In this way, decision making is aimed at achieving the best

outcome based on current understanding, whilst accruing the information needed to

improve future management. Adaptive management can lead to revision of a part or

if necessary, the whole PAMP.

Figure 1. The adaptive management cycle (CSIRO 2012)

Adaptive management enables managers to:

i) Learn through experience. ii) Take account of, and respond to, changing factors that affect the

Protected Area. iii) Develop or refine management processes. iv) Adopt best practices and new innovations in biodiversity

conservation management. v) Demonstrate that management is appropriate and effective.



SECTION 2 – OVERVIEW OF THE HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve (HPNR) was proclaimed under Section 12 (4)

of the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance, (Ordinance 19 of 1974) on

the 7th May 1982. The HPNR is therefore recognised as a nature reserve under the

National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA) (Act No. 57 of

2003). See Attachment 1 – PN 337 of 1982.

Hopefield PNR is 1887,79 ha’s in size and is located on Farm 304, Hopefield. The

reserve falls within the 3318AB quarter degree grid square, the centre of the reserve

is located at 33.056275 S and 18.277203 E (Decimal Degrees).

(See Figure 2 -Locality of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve).



Figure 2 -Locality of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

2.1 Cultural heritage resources and landscape grading context

On a regional scale the Saldanha Bay Municipality falls within the West Coast Region

which is one of the main regional cultural landscapes of the Western Cape, some of

the others being the Swartland, Boland and Overberg. On a sub-regional scale, the

West Coast Region consists of seven sub-regions that comprise of the Lagoon,

Swartland, Wilderness, Berg River floodplain, Sandveld, Coastal edge and the

Koppiesveld (O’Donoghue et al 2016).

Extremely rich Pliocene and Pleistocene fossil beds have been found at

Langebaanweg some 15km west to the PA, while important fossil remains from the

middle to late Pleistocene occur at the adjacent property, Elandsfontein (SANParks

2013) The area, especially around Elandsfontein, is extremely rich in fossils, and



abundant Late Cenozoic deposits of up to five million years in age in the Varswater

formation have been found (SANParks 2013).

The earliest archaeological evidence along the West Coast comes from the Middle

Stone Age (approximately 200 000 years ago to approximately 40 000 years ago).

Although palaeontological remains are not normally associated with very ancient rocks

like the Cape Granite suite bedrock, such rocks (and some older Langebaan Formation

calcretes) may, nevertheless, provide features, such as holes and overhangs; used by

sheltering animals. Bones of their prey were sometimes discarded and preserved in

these contexts.

Fossils finds in the Langebaan Formation are normally mineralised bones that are

moderately common and have local to high significance. Where this fossil layer

extends under the sea it too has a local to high significance. The age of these fossil

layers has been dated to three (3) million years ago (O’Donoghue et al 2016).

According to (O’Donoghue et al 2016) the HPNR has a high heritage significance in

terms of scientific, social and aesthetic values, with a IIIA grading. Grade III can be

defined as heritage resources that is conservation worthy and which needs heritage

resource assessments. The specific grading of IIIA can be further defined as buildings

and sites that have sufficient intrinsic significance to be regarded as local heritage

resources; and are significant enough to warrant that any alteration is regulated. Such

buildings and sites may be representative, being excellent examples of their kind, or

may be rare. In either case, they should receive maximum protection at local level.



2.2 Biophysical Description

2.2.1 Climate

The HPNR falls within the Mediterranean climate, receiving most rain during the cold

and wet winter months. The annual rainfall is about 296 mm with the highest rainfall

in June and the lowest during February. The average midday temperature for the area

ranges from 12.9°C in July to 21.3°C in February. The region is the coldest during July

when the mercury drops to an average of 12°C during the night.

Winds tend to be strong north-westerly in the winter and southerly in the summer. The

average wind speed is 6.96 m/second.

2.2.2 Geology, topography and soil

The geology of the HPNR comprises of Quanternary quartz sand of the Springfontein

Formation and Limestone and Calcrete of the Langebaan Formation.

Soils consist of Grey Regic sands that is dominant with limited pedological

development. The soils are greyish, sandy and well drained. The depth of the soils

is between >=750mm with <15%clay. Erodibility is high with an erodibility factor of

0.62. The highest point at the HPNR is 100m above sea level. See Figure 3 – Geology of HPNR



Figure 3 – Geology and topography of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve 2.3 Biodiversity 2.3.1 Mammalian fauna

Large mammals have been largely absent from fynbos for almost two centuries and

we can only speculate about their impacts and effects on the vegetation. Fynbos

however has evolved with animals and is reliant on them for fundamental processes

such as pollination and dispersal.

Smaller mammals requiring smaller ranges are still found, including antelope species

such as Grey Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmiaI), Steenbuck (Rhaphicerus campestris) and

Cape Grysbuck (R. melanotis).



Smaller predators include African Wild Cat (Felis lybica), Caracal (Felis caracal), Cape

Fox (Vulpes chama) and Small grey Mongoose (Galerella pulverulenta). The

omnivorous Bat-eared Fox (Otocyon megalotis) is common throughout the area,

particularly in agricultural lands.

2.3.2 Vegetation The vegetation type present on the HPNR is Hopefield Sand Fynbos which is listed as

a threatened ecosystem. The habitat on this property is also of very high conservation

importance as it is one of few such large intact areas of Hopefield Sand Fynbos areas

remaining that have not been heavily impacted and fragmented by development such

as mining and linear infrastructure.

Position and Features of the Landscape: Occurs on flat plains with deep acid

sands and no outcropping bedrock. Underlain by shale, that is visible in places,

notably along river banks. The very few rivers cutting through this landscape

thus tend to support a thin band of Renosterveld type vegetation where shale

has been exposed as a result of erosion. It reaches its northern most extent

around Aurora, where composition of Proteaceae, Geraniaceae, and certain

Asteraceae changes to reflect transition to more arid Leipoldtville Sand Fynbos.

Climate: Climate is not a major driver of this vegetation type. Typical winter

rainfall area, with hot, dry, windy summers, and a high incidence of fog in

autumn and winter.

Vegetation structure: Medium to tall fire-prone shrubland. Restios and ericoid

shrubs of various families dominate, but Proteaceae may be co-dominant in

places. Scattered Thicket (Strandveld) elements, notably Gymnosporia

buxifolia and Euclea tomentosa. Annuals abundant, especially after fire.

Geophytes may be common, but most species shared with other Sand Fynbos

systems.



Special species: Red Data listed Proteaceae in this area (north of the Berg

River) includes Leucospermum rodolentum (widespread in west coast area), L.

hypophyllocarpodendron ssp. canaliculatum (Aurora to Milnerton),

Leucadendron foedum (mainly Hopefield area), Serruria decipiens (Graafwater

to Melkbos), and Serruria fucifolia (Gifberg to Hopefield). Other rare/threatened

or endemic species include Aspalathus albens, A. ternata, Lachnaea capitata,

Lachnaea grandiflora, Phylica harveyi, Phylica thunbergiana, Metalasia adunca,

Nemesia strumosa, Lampranthus explanatus, Relhania rotundifolia (often in

clay lenses), Oxalis suavis (common but very local endemic around Hopefield),

and Lepidium flexuosum (poorly known). Metalasia capitata shared with

neighbouring Sand Fynbos types.

Key areas requiring conservation: This vegetation type is very poorly conserved,

with large areas transformed by agriculture and invaded by aliens. However,

large intact areas still remain and these should be the focus of conservation

efforts, especially where these include ecotonal elements (such as clay lenses

and Renosterveld contact zones, and upland elements such as those found

near Aurora), and where they border existing public or private conservation

areas.

Management Guidelines: Major pressures sources are agriculture (potatoes,

rooibos, wheat) and alien invasive plants (mainly Acacia saligna and A.

cyclops). The removal of alien invaders should be regarded as a priority for this

vegetation type. The carrying capacity of this vegetation type is low and the

stocking of game reserves should be well controlled and closely monitored to

prevent the degradation of this habitat. No further transformation of good quality

examples of this vegetation type should be authorised, unless offset by

significant conservation gains, in accordance with the latest regional guidelines

for biodiversity offsets (Department of Environmental Affairs and Development

Planning 2007). These guidelines suggest that for every 1ha of intact habitat

lost at least 15ha of the same quality should be conserved.



This PAMP provides the guidelines, actions and activities to be implemented to ensure

long term conservation of the biological assets of the HPNR. The plan will further

ensure management continuity by assigning management responsibilities and

providing for scheduling and costing of actions and activities. The monitoring and

auditing of all actions undertaken will be tracked by implementing the METT

Assessment Process.

See figure 4 – Vegetation type at The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve.

Figure 4 – Vegetation types at the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve. 2.3.3 Avifauna

Fynbos areas do not have a particularly high diversity of birds (Cowling & Richardson,

1995); however the six species that are endemic to fynbos are in the area namely the

Cape Rockjumper (Chaetops frenatus), Cape Sugarbird (Promerops cafer), Cape



Siskin (Serinus tottus), Orange-breasted Sunbird (Nectarinia violacea), Protea Canary

(Serinus leucopterus) and Victorin’s Warbler (Bradypterus victorini). Large striking

birds include the White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis), Jackal Buzzard (Buteo

rufofuscus) and the African Harrier (Circus maurus).

No formal baseline information has been generated to date for the PA and this will be

a key activity to guide future management of the PA.

2.3.4 Herpetofauna

No detailed information on the herpetofauna species is available at the present time.

However the following species would be expected to occur at the HPNR. Angulate

Tortoise (Cherisina angulata), Striped Legless Skink (Microacontias lineatus grayi),

Cape Cobra (Naja nivea), Puff Adder (Bitis arietans), Cross-marked Grass Snake

(Psammophis crucifer), Karoo Whip Snake (Psammophis natastictus), Mole Snake

(Pseudoaspis cana) and the Cuvier’s Blind Legless Skink (Typhlosaurus caecus).

2.3.5 Invertebrates

The focus on the CFR’s exceptionally high floristic diversity has somewhat

overshadowed its faunal diversity and, as a consequence, there is a lack of information

on insect species diversity within the CFR, although their functional significance is

appreciated.

2.3.6 Fire regime

Fynbos is a fire driven ecosystem and requires fire to maintain its diversity, ecosystem

processes and healthy plant and animal communities. Fynbos diversity is driven by

fire frequency, - intensity, - season and the size of the fire (Cowling and Richardson

1995).

The influence of these factors may be described in the following way:



Fire frequency, this is the interval between subsequent fires. Fynbos, which is

frequently burnt, shows a marked reduction in structure from tall scrubland to a low

herbaceous scrubland. Frequent fires will lead to the irreversible loss of species,

annuals dominate and there is a loss of diversity. On the other hand, long periods

between fires also leads to a reduction in diversity and loss of species, as woody

vegetation dominates and there is a significant build-up of dead plant material, referred

to as senescence (no regeneration take place in this phase).

Fire Season, this refers to the season when a fire occurs. The effect of season

varies vastly amongst different species and plant communities. Fires that normally

occur in the dry summer or autumn (November to April) are considered to be "natural"

in the fynbos environment.

Fire intensity, this is how hot the fire is burning. Fire intensity plays a large role in

the plant community composition, e.g. high fire intensity could decrease the survival

rate of sprouting species and could favour more fleshy larger seed species while lower

intensity fires favouring graminoid and restoid herbs over woody elements. Above

ground biomass varies from 10 tons/ha to 64 tons/ha in mature stands. Fires therefore

generally have a high intensity.

Fire size. Regeneration of many fynbos species is dependent on the extent to which

seeds are consumed by rodents, insects and other seed-eaters (granivores). Small

burnt patches attract granivores, grazers and browsers from the surrounding unburnt

veld, it is therefore important to ensure that burnt patches are of a reasonable size.

The minimum size should be at least 25 ha to minimise the impacts of herbivores and

granivores.

The effects of the fire regime on the vegetation types at Hopefield Private Nature

Reserve and their respective structures and dynamics have to be fully understood

before any crucial management decisions are taken. In a situation such as this where

so little baseline information is available seeking specialist advice is a pre-requisite for

any management related use of fire.



2.3.6 Alien Invasive species

The only invasive species found on the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve were

Scattered Rooikrans / Red Eye (Acacia cyclops) and Eucalyptus windrows are present

on the northern boundary of the PA (Ranger and Du Plessis 2018).

Importantly the HPNR may, in future, be subjected to increased invasion by Invasive

Alien Plants and / other ornamental plants resulting from illegal dumping of garden

waste within the PA.

No faunal prohibited or listed species were noted or any sign of their presence at any

of the sites during the field assessment. However, though not listed, stray dogs and

domestic cats may impact on the indigenous wildlife populations if not managed pro-

actively.

House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) and Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) are

widespread in the entire area and provincially. Although they are both prohibited

species, control measures need a National and Provincial Strategy as control at a

Municipal or PA level is not feasible. These species are highly mobile and able to cover

large distances and would therefore easily disperse back to the PA from surrounding

areas (Ranger and Du Plessis 2018).

2.4 Socio-Political context

The Saldanha Bay Municipality covers an area of 2 015 km² (approximately 166 565,48

hectares) and has a coastline of 238km. In total 6.5% of the geographical land is urban

and 93.5% rural land.

Overall the Saldanha Bay Municipality constitutes 6.4% of the entire West Coast

geographical area, making it the smallest Local Municipal Area in the West Coast

District. The domain of the SBM includes the towns of Hopefield, Langebaan,

Saldanha, Jacobsbaai, Vredenburg, Paternoster and St Helenabaai. The

administrative centre is the town of Vredenburg which is located approximately 25 km

to the south east of the HPNR.



SBM has the second largest population of 111 173 (2011 Stats: 99 193) in the West

Coast District according to the 2016 Community Survey conducted by Statistics South

Africa. The forecasts of the Western Cape Department of Social Development are that

the total population will gradually increase across the 5-year IDP planning cycle and is

expected to reach 122 265 by 2023. This equates to an approximate 9.8 % growth in

the 2017 base estimate (Saldanha Bay Municipality 2019).

The 2016 community results revealed a strong concentration of persons within the age

category of 15-34 years at 40 696 in comparison to the 2011 statistics which reflected

a total of 36 264.

The annual income for households living within the SBM, are divided into three

categories (the proportion of people that fall within the low, middle and high income

brackets). Poor households fall under the low income bracket, which ranges from no

income to just under R50 000.00 annually (R4166.00 per month). An increase in living

standards can be evidenced by a rising number of households entering the middle and

high income brackets.

Most people are employed by the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Sector and

employment is further supported by secondary sectors such as the manufacturing,

construction, commercial services, government and community, social and the

personal services sectors (Saldanha Bay Municipality 2017).



2.5 Regional and Local planning Context

2.5.1 Regional context

According to Maree and Vromans (2010), the five local municipalities within the West

Coast District (Saldanha Bay, Bergrivier, Cederberg, Swartland and Matzikama) lie

within two of South Africa’s internationally acclaimed biodiversity hotspots, namely, the

Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) and the Succulent Karoo.

The GCFR is one of only six Floristic Regions in the world, and is the only one largely

confined to a single country (the Succulent Karoo component extends into southern

Namibia). It is also by far the smallest floristic region, occupying only 0.2% of the

world’s land surface, and supporting about 11500 plant species, over half of all the

plant species in South Africa (on 12% of the land area). At least 70% of all the species

in the Cape Region do not occur elsewhere, and many have very small home ranges

(these are known as narrow endemics).

Less known is the fact that the CFR has high animal diversity including both vertebrates

and invertebrates. This is particularly the case with reptile, amphibian and insect

species which have a very rich diversity. Furthermore, the CFR is a priority area for

freshwater fish endemic to the region and finally avian fauna endemic to South Africa.

Many of the lowland habitats are under pressure from agriculture, urbanisation and

alien plants, and thus many of the range restricted species are also under severe threat

of extinction, as habitat is reduced to extremely small fragments.

The HPNR is considered to be part of the West Strandveld Bioregion (Mucina &

Rutherford 2006), which is part of the Fynbos Biome, located within what is now known

as the Core Region of the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) (Manning & Goldblatt

2012).



2.5.2 Local planning (Biodiversity plans)

Biodiversity Sector Plans (BSP) provide a way forward in reconciling the conflict

between exploitative resource use activities and the maintenance of natural systems.

They provide the biodiversity information needed for landuse planning and decision-

making and other multi-sectorial planning processes in the form of;

• Critical Biodiversity Areas Maps;

• A Biodiversity Sector Plan Handbook, which includes a Biodiversity Profile for

these municipalities, and land and resource-use guidelines;

• GIS (Geographical Information Systems) shapefiles; and

• Technical reports.

The BSP includes important spatial information in the following GIS shapefiles, Critical

Biodiversity Areas (CBA) (terrestrial); Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA) (aquatic) and

their buffers, Ecological Support Areas (ESA) and Critical Ecological Support Areas

(CESA) amongst others. According to the Biodiversity Sector Plan for the Saldanha Bay, Bergrivier, Swartland,

Cederberg and Matzikama Municipalities, the HPNR falls outside a Critical Biodiversity

Area (CBA) (Maree & Vromans, 2010), however it must be noted here that for formally

proclaimed protected areas the same principles apply. Thus the requirement is full

adherence to the CBA guidelines within a PA of high conservation value. Figure 5: Hopefield Private Nature Reserve Critical Biodiversity Areas



Figure 5 : Hopefield Private Nature Reserve a Critical Biodiversity Area.



Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA’s) are those terrestrial (land) and aquatic (water) areas

which must be safeguarded in their natural state as they are critical for conserving

biodiversity pattern and maintaining ecosystem functioning. These areas include:

Areas requiring safeguarding in order to meet National biodiversity thresholds;

Areas required to ensure the continued existence and functioning of species

and ecosystems, including the delivery of ecosystem services; and/or

Special Habitats or locations where Species of Special Concern occur (Maree

and Vromans 2010)

Desired management for a CBA, and in this case applicable to the HPNR is to maintain

the natural land, rehabilitate degraded areas to natural or near natural and to manage

the area in such a way as to prevent any further degradation.

Table 1, describes the land and resource use guidelines applicable for terrestrial

CBA’s.

Table 1: Land and Resource use guidelines for terrestrial CBA’s.

Spatial Planning Category Land and resource use guidelines matrix

Conservation Yes

Agriculture: Intensive agriculture or high impact (includes nuisance and space extensive agricultural enterprises)

No

Agriculture: Extensive agriculture with low impact Restricted

Holiday accommodation Restricted

Rural housing (RH) – (Low Density RH: Consolidation of rural erven for conservation)

Restricted

Rural housing (On-Farm workers Settlement) No

Tourist and recreational facilities – low impact: Lecture rooms, restrooms, restaurants, gift shops and outdoor recreation)

Restricted

Tourist and recreational facilities – high impact (golf , polo, and housing eco-estates)

No



Rural business (Place Bound) Restricted

Rural business (Non Place Bound) No

Rural industry NO No

Small holdings No

Community facilities and institutions No

Infrastructure installations Restricted

Existing settlements (Urban expansion) No

New settlements No

# Yes = encouraged; No = Discouraged and Restricted = Land-use possible under strict controls only in order to avoid impacts on biodiversity.

Table 1 : Land and Resource use guidelines for terrestrial CBA’s (Adapted from Maree

& Vromans, 2010).



SECTION 3 : LEGAL STATUS

3.1 Legal status

3.1.1 Name and legal designations

The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve (HPNR) was proclaimed under Section 12 (4)

of the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance, (Ordinance 19 of 1974) on

the 7th May 1982. The HPNR is therefore recognised as a Nature Reserve under the

National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA) (Act No. 57 of

2003). See Attachment 1 – PN 337 of 1982.

3.1.2 Contractual agreements

No formal contractual agreements exist within the PA.

3.1.3 Location, extent and highest point

Hopefield PNR is 1887,79 ha’s in size and is located on Farm 304, Hopefield. The

reserve falls within the 3318AB quarter degree grid square and the centre of the

reserve is located at 33.056275S and 18.277203”E. (See Figure 2 - Locality of the HPNR)

The highest point of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve is 100 m.a.s.l.

See Figure 3 – Geology and topography of the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve



3.1.4 Municipal jurisdiction

The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve is situated within the West Coast District

Municipality (WCDM) and within the Saldanha Bay Local Municipal area (SBM), which

is the Local Authority. The municipal area extends over ±2015 km² and extends along

238 km of coastline.

In terms of the Municipal Systems Act (Act No.32 of 2000), local municipalities in South

Africa are required to use integrated development planning to plan future development

in their area. An Integrated Development Plan (IDP) is a 5-year strategic plan within

which the municipal strategic and budget priorities are set.

An IDP is intended to be the principal strategic instrument that informs planning and

development within a municipality with the aim of integrating and coordinating the work

of local and other spheres of government, including how the environment will be

managed and protected. Among the key components of an IDP are disaster

management plans and a Spatial Development Framework (SDF). SDFs are

essentially the spatial reflection of a municipal IDP. Local municipalities are

responsible for producing and coordinating IDPs and SDFs, in consultation with

stakeholders who can influence or be influenced by development and other changes

in the area. All government departments working in an area are encouraged to refer

to the IDP to ensure integration and alignment of work. As such IDPs and SDFs are

tools for integrating social, economic and environmental issues and development

within a municipality.

Since biodiversity is a fundamental component of sustainable development, SDFs and

IDPs offer an opportunity to ensure that biodiversity priorities are incorporated into

planning processes. In turn, the identification of biodiversity-related projects for the IDP

can support local economic development and poverty alleviation.

The SBM SDF has incorporated statutory conservation areas (along with critical

biodiversity areas, conservation priority zones, critical, irreplaceable and restorable

biodiversity sites, public conservation areas and private conservation areas) in its Core

1 category, i.e. conservation worthy / dependent areas.



The SBM IDPs and SDFs are updated every five years and must indicate the desired

patterns of landuse for the municipality and provide strategic guidance regarding the

location and form of development, as well as conservation, within the municipality. An

improved integration of the PA into municipal planning frameworks presents an

opportunity for protected area mainstreaming and incorporation of appropriate

buffering mechanisms around protected areas. The current IDP is in effect from 2017

– 2022.

Land use management in the SB municipal area is guided by the:

SDF which provides spatial directives for the type of development and where it

can occur, and land use schemes (also known as zoning schemes) which

provides use rights and development parameters thereof and the

The National Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, no 16 of 2013

(SPLUMA), the Western Cape Land Use Planning Act, No 3 of 2014 (LUPA),

and;

The Saldanha Bay Municipality Land Use Planning By-law provides the

legislative framework for the utilisation of the two instruments.

The SDF was approved in 2019 in terms of the Municipal System Act (Act No.32 of

2000). Since then significant legislative changes have occurred in the planning regime

with the promulgation of the National Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act,

no 16 of 2013 (SPLUMA), the Western Cape Land Use Planning Act, No 3 of 2014

(LUPA) and the Saldanha Bay Municipality Land Use Planning By-law. This new

legislation now gives the legal directive for the compilation of a SDF and has made

provision for very specific measures according to which SDF’s should be drafted and

greater clarity on the aspects they should address. As a core component of an IDP the

SDF is linked to the cycle of the IDP and thus the compilation of a new SDF is required

every five (5) years.



SECTION 4 : POLICY FRAMEWORK

All conservation management authorities are subjected to the Constitution for South

Africa, National Legislation and various conservation strategies and action plans, while

government priorities will take precedence. This section deals with the policy

framework of the SBM, as the management authority to implement this PAMP.

4.1 Financial

Policy Statement - The PA Management will adhere to, and responsively manage

the allocation of budget, revenue raising activities and expenditure; ensure good

financial management supporting the achievement of the objectives of this plan;

comply with the Public Finance Management Act (No.1 of 1999) and comply with

the SBM financial policies and procedures.

In the management and control of the HPNR, the Saldanha Bay Municipality will plan,

budget and audit the implementation of this plan and the expenditure of the allocated

budget on an annual basis.

4.2 Biodiversity management

Policy Statement – The Saldanha Bay Municipality undertakes to manage and

conserve the indigenous and endemic biodiversity in such a way that the character,

ecological pattern and processes of the HPNR are maintained and protected in

perpetuity.

4.3 Safety and Security

Policy Statement – The Saldanha Bay Municipality will at all times maintain access

controls and where required apply law enforcement measures to prevent

degradation to the important terrestrial values present on the PA.



The SBM have a by-law in place for the management and enforcement of safety and

security that applies to all open spaces under their jurisdiction.

4.4 Resource use and community involvement

Policy Statement – The SBM will promote the sustainable use of environmental

resources and engage and include the community in the use and management of

these resources.

In South Africa, it is entrenched practice to involve communities in the management of

protected areas. This practice provides opportunity to engage and agree on a shared

vision for the PA, making communities equal partners in the engagement process and

providing for the alignment of conservation action objectives and achievable

deliverables.

In terms of resource use the local community at Hopefield must engage with the PAAC

to determine their natural resource requirements.

The Hopefield community, specifically the youth and the surrounding landowners and

SANParks must be a key focus for engagement during the implementation of this

PAMP. The Protected Area Advisory Committee (PAAC) must develop and maintain

guidelines for the management of resource use and community engagement and

involvement.

4.5 Cultural resource management

Policy Statement - The Saldanha Bay Municipality undertakes to manage and

conserve the cultural historical, archaeological and paleontological heritage assets

for the future generations in a manner that is fully aligned to National Legislation.

For monitoring, the condition of focal heritage values are indicators of management

effectiveness through the METT-SA Assessment process.



4.6 Neighbouring relationships

Policy Statement – The SBM undertakes to establish a formal inclusive community

structure to advise and support the management of the PA.

The HPNR Protected Advisory (PAAC) will be the institutionalised structure to engage

with in instances where conflict resolution is required and to resolve issues, provide

support, guide and monitor implementation of this PAMP. See Attachment 2 – Terms of Reference for a PAAC.

4.7 Baseline data, monitoring and research

Policy Statement - The Saldanha Bay Municipality commits to the continuous

support of key role-players, partners and institutions in the collection of baseline

data, facilitation of monitoring activities and the identification of research

opportunities that could be used to improve the knowledge base and improve

management effectiveness.

4.8 Access

Policy Statement – The SBM will at all times control access to the PA to ensure

the conservation of Biodiversity and Heritage Values in perpetuity.

Access control is important to prevent environmental impacts that are associated with

the over utilisation of resources and illegal activities that may fundamentally undermine

the conservation values of the Protected Area.



4.9 Administrative support

Policy Statement – The SBM undertakes to undertake integrated development

planning to plan future development in their area in accordance with the Municipal

Systems Act (Act No.32 of 2000).

An Integrated Development Plan (IDP) is a five-year strategic plan in which the

municipal strategic and budget priorities are set. The SBM further supports the PA by

providing management funding as part of their service delivery mandate. It is very

important that the programmes and projects identified in the PAMP are incorporated

and included in the IDP process.

4.10 Protected Area Management Effectiveness

Policy Statement – The SBM undertakes to track management effectiveness

through the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) adopted by the

National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and adapted to South African

conditions (METT-SA) and report to the DEA in accordance with this assessment

tool.

The IUCN defines management effectiveness evaluation as the assessment of how

well a protected area is being managed – primarily the extent to which management is

protecting values and achieving goals and objectives (Hockings et al. 2015)

The METT does not replace fine scale monitoring and evaluation of specifics; rather it

is a strategic tool for the assessment of overall management effectiveness. NB this must not been seen as a performance audit of the PA Manager.



4.11 Internal Rules

Policy Statement – The SBM undertakes to develop and implement PA rules in

accordance with the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act

(57/2003), as Amended in Act 31/2004, Section 52 and the Nature Conservation

Ordinance and Provincial Notice (955/1975).

In terms of the above-mentioned Act, the management authority of a nature reserve

may, in accordance with prescribed Norms and Standards, make rules for the proper

administration of the area.

Rules made must be (1) consistent with the Act and the management plan for the area;

(2) binding on all persons in the area, including visitors; and (3) may, as a condition for

entry, provide for the imposition of fines for breaching of rules.

The internal rules for the proper administration of the PA are drafted in terms of Section

52 of the Act and Regulations for the Proper Administration of Special Nature

Reserves, National Parks and World Heritage Sites (GNR 1061, GG28181).

4.12 Environmental Education and awareness

Policy Statement - The Saldanha Bay Municipality acknowledges the importance

of environmental interpretation and awareness and its contribution to the long-term

protection of the HPNR and the biodiversity values and assets it contains. The SBM

undertakes to improve environmental interpretation and undertake awareness

raising on a continual basis.

4.13 Infrastructure maintenance and management

Policy Statement - The Saldanha Bay Municipality will develop, provide and

maintain infrastructure that is needed for the effective management and protection

of all assets.



SECTION 5 : CONSULTATION

5.1 Stakeholder Engagement Process

Participatory planning and management are needed to mainstream protected areas as

natural solutions to emerging challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss,

disaster risk reduction, food and water security, providing benefits to human health,

livelihoods and well-being. Therefor the integration of protected areas into the wider

landscape is necessary and management must promote participation by relevant

stakeholders. (CapeNature 2018).

Stakeholder engagement essentially takes place throughout the adaptive

management cycle, however, at the outset of the planning process for the HPNR, the

stakeholder analysis process identified key stakeholders.

Section 39(3) of the Act states that all persons who may be interested in, or affected

by, the management plan are to be given the opportunity to comment on the

management plan. Section 41(2)(e) requires that the management plan contains

procedures for stakeholder participation including participation by the owner, and/or

any local community or interested party.

A process of extensive public participation of the draft management plan was initiated

by invitation to the public via the media, e-mail, post, telephone and personal invitation

to register their interest. A stakeholder register, maintained by the FES lists registered

interested and affected parties. The draft management plan was also placed at

relevant libraries and on the SBM website, inviting written comment on the draft

management plan for a period of 30 days.

Registered interested and affected parties were invited to a public meeting if needed

and provided the opportunity to raise concerns and provide comment. Based on a

summary report of the outcomes of the public meeting, as well as written comments

and responses received, the management plan was amended where relevant, and

feedback provided to registered interested and affected parties. See Appendix 3 - Stakeholder Engagement Process.



5.2 Establishment of Protected Area Advisory Committee (PAAC) A Protected Area Advisory committee (PAAC) must be establish to provide support

and advice to the SBM in order to strengthen capacity, improve the knowledge base

and ensure political support and buy in at strategic levels within the Saldanha Bay

Municipality.

The PAAC could be comprised of representatives from the Saldanha Bay Municipality,

West Coast District Municipality, West Coast Biosphere Reserve, CapeNature,

SANParks, Dept. of Environmental Affairs & Development Planning, Elandsfontein,

representatives from the Hopefield community as well as other Interested and Affected

Parties that registered during the stakeholder engagement process. See Attachment 2– Proposed Terms of Reference for the PAAC.

5.3 Effective participation within the Protected Area Advisory Committee (PAAC)

Once the PAAC has been established the committee must actively engage and

participate in addressing the management challenges of HPNR. The SBM must

ensure that the following recommendations are implemented:

Develop an annual action list for the PAAC

Monitor the success of implementation of these planned activities and the

APO.

Adapt and change activities when needed.



SECTION 6 : PURPOSE and VISION

The purpose and vision for the HPNR stems from an understanding of the policy

framework, values and key attributes, threats and contributing factors that have

bearing on the ultimate condition of the environment that protected area management

is working to achieve.

Here a deviation from the stakeholder engagement process followed by CapeNature

“the Open Source methodology” has been followed. This was done as the PA in

question is more akin to a Stewardship site than a complex of provincial PA’s for which

the Open Source approach is more suited.

Consultation with CapeNature’s Stewardship Programme provided the reasons for the

approach followed in this instance:

The approach is lengthy (taking up to 18 months) and would be very expensive

to run.

The HPNR, is too small to use this methodology – it works well in complexes of

statutory protected areas managed as Provincial or National Parks i.e. areas

that have extensive biodiversity and cultural historical data available and consist

of multiple conservation estates over large landscapes;

The HPNR is isolated and cannot expand to include other areas under the

management authority of the SBM;

The SBM has no capacity to engage in stewardship arrangements with

neighbouring properties;

That the approach to this PAMP must rather focus on the identification of

Management Programmes that are supported with the identification of projects

and the implementation of actions. A high level strategic management

approach is therefore impractical in this instance;

Please note however that some of the principles of this approach are discussed in the

next section of the PAMP.



6.1 Key determining factors

6.1.1 Local connectivity

Corridors link habitats, ecosystems or undeveloped areas and physically connect

habitat patches. Small patches of surviving habitat can also serve as “stepping stones”

that link fragmented ecosystems by ensuring that certain ecological processes are

maintained within and between groups of habitat fragments.

According to SANParks (2013) the HPNR is situated within the West Coast National

Park (WCNP) buffer area and therefore provides a critical contribution in the creation

of a buffer around the WCNP. This buffer area will guide the assessment of future

development that may have an influence or impact on the WCNP.

The HPNR is an important stepping stone to create a coastal inland corridor to the

east. This falls within the SANParks expansion strategy which aims to expand the

WCNP in an easterly direction to include more Endangered vegetation types. This

corridor is important to buffer the ecosystem types from the impacts of climate change

(both sea level rise, freshwater flooding and to allow for the movement of species) and

to provide valuable ecosystem services. As a consequence, the long-term integrity and

functioning of the HPNR is important as this is one of few remaining areas of Hopefield

Sand Fynbos that has not been developed. It must be noted that the HPNR is already

link with the WCNP to the southwest of Hopefield.

6.1.2 Vegetation

Hopefield Sand Fynbos is listed as an Endangered vegetation type with a conservation

target of 30%. Very small portions are currently protected within the WCNP while the

HPNR and the Jakkalsfontein Private Nature Reserve are contributing (2%) to the

conservation target. Some (40%) of this vegetation type is already transformed by

cultivation and grazing. Endemic taxa include the following; low shrubs Leucospermun

tomentosum and Relhania rotundifolia, Herbs – Heliophila patens and Lepidium

flexuosum as well as the Geophytic Herb, Oxalis suavis.



See figure 4 – Vegetation type at the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

6.1.3 Other key determining factors

The following factor are additional and very important key determining factors at

HPNR.

The PA is within the identified Buffer Area of the West Coast National Park;

6.2 Management intent and desire state

The HPNR will be managed primarily for the protection of the Endangered Hopefield

Sand Fynbos vegetation type which is the only ecosystem type present within the

boundaries of the PA. The desired state is to achieve the in-perpetuity protection of

this vegetation / ecosystem type in a pristine condition.

6.3 Purpose

The purpose of the HPNR is the foundation on which all future actions are based in

keeping with the Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives of the SBM and objectives

of the Act.

According to Section 17 of the Act, the primary purpose of declaring protected areas

is: to protect ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa’s biological

diversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes in a system of protected areas.

The HPNR can be declared for one or more of the following purposes:

to protect ecologically viable areas, representative of South Africa’s biological

diversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes in a system of protected

areas;

to preserve the ecological integrity of those areas;

to conserve biodiversity in those areas;



to protect areas representative of all ecosystems, habitats and species

naturally occurring in South Africa;

to protect South Africa’s threatened or rare species;

to protect an area which is vulnerable or ecologically sensitive;

to assist in ensuring the sustained supply of environmental goods and services;

to provide for the sustainable use of natural and biological resources;

to create or augment destinations for nature-based tourism;

generally, to contribute to human, social, cultural, spiritual and economic

development; or

to rehabilitate and restore degraded ecosystems and promote the recovery of

endangered and vulnerable species.

The purpose of the HPNR is therefore to contribute to the protection of a viable

area of Hopefield Sand Fynbos.

6.4 Threats

A number of threats have been identified that may impact on the ability of the HPNR

to achieve its purpose, these include:

Inappropriate fire regime (Medium): Too frequent or fires exceeding the

ecological threshold may have far reaching ecological impacts and may cause

impacts on the natural ecosystem;

Illegal hunting and poaching (Medium): This impact has its origin in the

neighbouring communities when people hunt within the PA and / or stray dogs

gain access to the PA.

Alien and invasive flora (Medium): Although infestation is currently at a very

low level it may worsen if active management interventions to prevent new

invasion, as noted above, are not sustained (Ranger and Du Plessis 2018).



Unregulated utilisation of natural resources (Low): Harvesting and utilisation of

natural resources without authorisation undermines appropriate resource

management. Additionally, there is opportunity for improved environmental

awareness and a management authority understanding of sustainable

resource utilisation trends.

6.5 Summary of management challenges and opportunities The following management challenges and opportunities are applicable to the HPNR;

Aspect of management Challenges and Opportunities

Management of indigenous plant

and animal species.

Little is known of special, rare and endemic

species that occur on the HPNR and

activities should be focused on baseline data

collection to inform decision making and

management.

Fire management.

The vegetation type occurring on the site is

prone to fire. The primary management

activity would therefore be to prevent wildfires

and to prevent damage to the surrounding

smallholdings and infrastructure at the urban

interface of Hopefield. The SBM is a

member of the Greater Cederberg Fire

Protection Association (GCFPA) an institution

that promotes integrated fire management.

Invasive species management.

The plan has been completed and requires

funding for implementation.

Wildlife management. In this instance naturally occurring wildlife

should not require management – it is

important though that care is taken to manage



stray domestic animals and illegal hunting /

poaching by visitors to the PA.

Rehabilitation. There are various roads and sites that need

rehabilitation after the completion of the well

drilling project.

Erosion prevention and control.

Soils are highly sensitive to erosion by wind

and management should focus on

prevention of impacts.

Monitoring and Baseline data

collection.

Little or no Baseline data exists for the PA and

this should be a high priority management

activity for implementation.

Biodiversity security.

The local authority PA was proclaimed in

1982. The staff organogram needs attention,

staff need to be trained and partnerships

established with other institutions or civil

society organisations to enforce the laws.

Sufficient funding should be secured to

ensure that the entrance gate is operational

at all times to control access.

Environmental awareness and

education.

Environmental awareness and education

levels need to increase to ensure buy-in from

politicians and the surrounding community.

Legal compliance. The responsibility for legal compliance rests

with the Management Authority (SBM) and

the management challenge are to ensure

available capacity within the organisation to

comply with the legislative requirements.

Maintenance and development of

Infrastructure.

Effective maintenance and development

programs are needed to keep the Protected

Area safe, secured and operational to

prevent the degradation of a sensitive

environment.



Administration. Effective and efficient administration

systems are needed. Fill any vacant

positions, train staff members, appoint

service providers and ensure stakeholder

involvement.

Costing of the PAMP. The SBM must use the APO provided as part

of this PAMP to cost all management

activities, ensure that management costs

associated with the HPNR are incorporated

in the IDP Process and with the assistance

of the PAAC secure external funding.

Management effectiveness. Management effectiveness using the METT

will be audited annually. The audit should

feed back into the Management Plan and its

associated activities. The Management Plan

must be adapted based on the outcome of

the audit process as needed.



6.6 Vision

The HPNR provides an opportunity to strategically, and adaptively, manage a PA to;

Provide for the protection of an under-represented vegetation type that is

endangered.

Provide a building block in the landscape supporting the creation of a natural

climate change corridor,

Manage possible impacts caused by alien invasive species and uncontrolled

fires.

The vision for the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve therefor is … “to manage, conserve the natural assets and aesthetic values in a sustainable way for the

benefit of current and future generations”.

6.7 Goals and objectives

Goals are underpinned by strategies, objectives and indicators and are fundamental

for the assessment of protected area management effectiveness and the process of

management.

These goals and objectives aim to maintain the healthy ecological infrastructure which

supports life on earth and which provide climate change resilience. To reach these

goals management needs to achieve the following objectives:

The following objectives have been identified for the PA;

Objective 1: To protect representative areas, ecosystems, habitats and

species that are occur naturally in the PA;

Objective 2: Maintain habitat integrity to secure ecological processes and

linkages via the West Coast National Park inland corridor.

Objective 3: Rehabilitate and restore degraded areas;

Objective 4: Ensure the implementation of effective conservation

management interventions to enhance biodiversity conservation and

rehabilitation;



Objective 5: Ensure that a functional administrative system exists that can

contribute to the management effectiveness and stakeholder involvement;

Objective 6: Ensure the protection of historical, archaeological and

paleontological resources and

Objective 7: Ensure that funding is available to implement the PAMP.

6.8 Key performance areas

These management objectives were derived from the vision and aims and are grouped

into Key Performance Areas (KPA’s), the achievement of which must be obtained to

support the management purpose for the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve.

Objectives are prioritised through the development of action plans which are set out in

the Operational Management Framework.

Table 2 sets out the key performance areas, the objective for each key performance area and the key deliverables, required to realise the objectives.



Table 2 Key Deliverables, Objectives and Strategies for the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

Key Performance Areas Objective Strategies

BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT

FIRE MANAGEMENT

Fire management - The vegetation type on the PA is Hopefield Sand Fynbos (Endangered) which is fire prone and will burn at frequencies between 12 and 15 years.

Adhere to the National Veld and Forest Fire Act.

Reduction/Prevention of the spread of uncontrolled / wild fires.

Facilitate and forge partnerships to improve fire management.

Maintain partnerships to improve fire management i.e. Maintain membership of the Greater CederbergnFire Protection Association.

Improve fire awareness.

Reduce wildfires resulting from human negligence and accidental fires that may be ignited by visitors to the PA.

ALIEN INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES MANAGEMENT

Invasive species management - Very scattered alien invasive plant species occur on the PA. While domestic pets (cats and dogs) from the Hopefield may impact on the PA.

Enhance biodiversity protection and conservation.

All alien and invasive species are already mapped.

Ensure conservation of species and ecological processes by maintaining and improving ecosystem function.

Implement the approved alien invasive species control programme.



Implement effective integrated alien invasive control program.

WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

Wildlife management - In this instance naturally occurring wildlife should not require management.

To enhance biodiversity protection and conservation.

Prevent the introduction of Alien Invasive Species.

Ensure conservation of species and processes by maintaining and improving ecosystem function.

Implement a program to remove all domestic animals from the PA.

Adhere to CapeNature policies relating to the introduction and translocation of species.

Identify species that are poached on a regular basis.

Prevent poaching of wildlife.

EROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL

Erosion management – Erosion, especially wind erosion can accelerate on recently denuded areas after the establishment of the Hopefield borehole system.

Prevent erosion impacts.

Rehabilitate damaged and impacted areas.

Prevent access to those areas to halt further degradation.

Prevent and mitigate soil erosion.

Institute a monitoring system to assess the success of

Ensure the conservation of biodiversity.

Monitor the success of erosion control strategies.



management interventions.

REHABILITATION

Rehabilitation - Successful rehabilitation of denuded areas after the construction of the borehole system.

Ensure the conservation of biodiversity.

Prevent any impacts that negatively influence the rehabilitation process e.g. wind erosion.

Identify methods to fast track rehabilitation as and when needed.

Identify methods to be implemented that are able to fast track the rehabilitation interventions.

Monitor the success of rehabilitation.

Institute a monitoring system and process e.g. fixed point photos may be used to monitor rehabilitation success over time.

MONITORING AND BASELINE DATA COLLECTION

Baseline data collection and monitoring – Baseline information is needed to build an inventory of biodiversity on the PA and to determine further management interventions and activities. Projects should focus on aspects such as species inventories and rehabilitation success.

Improve the biodiversity baseline knowledge of Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

Collect and collate baseline and research data from adjacent areas if available.

Priority specimens should be submitted to CapeNature Scientific Services.

Establish the HPNR as a research site at tertiary academic institutions.

Ensure that Priority Specimens are included in the



CapeNature Conservation Services Ecological Matrix.

BIODIVERSITY SECURITY

Biodiversity security - The

HPNR is recognised as a PA

under the National

Environmental Management

Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA)

(Act No. 57 of 2003).

Enhance long term

biodiversity protection

and conservation.

Implement

recommendations of

this plan to ensure

the long-term

protection of

biodiversity for the

site.

Implement law

enforcement

activities.

Ensure conservation of

species and ecological

processes by

preventing negative

impacts and illegal

activities.

Biodiversity Connectivity –

Maintain linkages to support the

movement of species along the

coastal inland corridor.

Maintain the corridor.

Prevent any activities

that may impact

connectivity within

the identified corridor.

Access control and law enforcement – prevent illegal

activities in the PA.

Enhance long term

biodiversity protection

and conservation.

Implement access

control and prevent

illegal activities.

Ensure funding is

available for law

enforcement

activities.

Ensure conservation of

species and ecological

processes by

preventing negative

Engage in partnerships with other institutions such as SAPS and SANParks to ensure



impacts and illegal

activities.

their participation in law enforcement within the PA as relevant.

PREVENT NEGATIVE IMPACTS CAUSED BY UNCONTROLLED ACCESS

ACCESS CONTROL, EDUCATION AND ENFORCEMENT

Control mechanisms - Effective access control mechanisms are needed to prevent degradation of the environment. It must be noted here that no access gates are present, no fences exist and no recreational opportunities are allowed within the PA. Control should rather focus on a much softer approach to access control.

Design and produce signboards that inform the public that they are entering a PA and this sign must also showcase what is permitted in the PA.

Various education and awareness materials are available – Establish formalised partnerships with partners to obtain and distribute available materials.

Design and erect site-specific awareness signage at strategic points.

Develop and erect awareness and education signs.

Ensure that all law enforcement staff are trained, equipped and capacitated to enforce the rules and regulations of the PA.

Train, equip and build capacity of law enforcement officers.

Law enforcement – Effective law enforcement capacity is required to prevent any negative impacts on the PA caused by illegal activities.

Enforce National Acts, Municipal By-Laws and the general rules and regulations of the PA.

Ensure that law enforcement officers are capacitated to enforce National Acts, By-laws and general rules and regulations of the PA.

Enforce National Acts, Municipal By-Laws and

Ensure that law enforcement officers are capacitated to enforce National



the general rules and regulations of the PA.

Acts, By-laws and general rules and regulations of the PA.

To implement effective management systems.

Complete the annual METT assessment.

To implement effective management systems.

The auditing system has informed management decision making.

INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT

Infrastructure management and maintenance - is required for effective biodiversity management and to prevent degradation of the PA and the surrounding environment. Maintenance of existing infrastructure (roads and well points is needed).

Maintain roads to prevent erosion.

Ensure that budgets are available for maintenance.

MANAGEMENT EFFECTIVENESS

Management effectiveness - will be audited annually and this

Management Plan and its associated activities must be

adapted as required

Undertake METT

Assessments.

Ensure report back

of the outcomes of

management

effectiveness audits

to PAAC and DEA.

Ensure that audit

recommendations

feed into the

adaptive

management cycle



ADMINISTRATION

Administrative management - is required to support the implementation of the PAMP.

Filling of all vacant positions, training of staff, effective and efficient financial procurement, partnerships and stakeholder engagement are needed to support the implementation of the PAMP.

Ensure legal compliance with all relevant legislation and policies.



SECTION 7 – ZONING PLAN

7.1 Protected Area in the Context of Municipal Integrated Development planning

The HPNR is described in the SBM IDP (2019 – 2022), but no evidence of potential

conflict development is noted in the IDP and SDF which may influence the PA. See

regional and local planning in Section 2.5 and 6.1.1. It is very important that projects

identified in this PAMP are included in the IDP.

7.2 Protected Area Zonation

Protected area zonation provides a standard framework of formal guidelines for

conservation, access and use for particular areas and is underpinned by the

sensitivity analysis.

Zonation goes beyond natural resource protection and must also provide for:

Appropriate visitor experience;

Access and appropriate access management;

Environmental education and commercial activities that remain aligned with

the protected area objectives and purpose.

The HPNR does not provide any visitor facilities and therefore the entire PA will be

zoned as a “Species and Habitat Protection Zone”.



Table 3 – Zonation guidelines for the HPNR (Adapted from CapeNature 2018)

Zonation Category

Description Activities allowed Applicable areas at HPNR

Species and

habitat protection

zone

Areas for the

protection of

species or habitats

of special

conservation

concern.

None - only the

maintenance of the

boreholes, alien

invasive plant

clearing and the

establishment of

fire breaks.

The entire PA

will fall within

this zonation

category due to

the PA

contribution to

the national

conservation

targets of

protecting the

Endangered

Hopefield Sand

Fynbos – the

PA is one of the

largest areas

that still are

intact.



7.3 Protected Area Zone of Influence

According to the Norms and Standards attached to the Act require that a Zone of

Influence (ZOI) must be identified for each protected area and that such programmes

must focus on the following;

Encouraging the development and maintenance of good relations with

neighbours,

Facilitate regular interaction between protected area management and

neighbours,

that protected area staff regularly collaborate with partners, local communities

and other organisations and

that neighbouring communities have relevant input into decisions relating to

the protected area management (GG 382 of 31 March 2016).

The ZOI should thus facilitate integration and mainstreaming of conservation and

sustainability in the surrounding land (Cape Nature 2018).

Thus, the ZOI provides a spatial scope of proactive engagement for any activities,

developments, tourism and economic activity in the area that may require

collaboration between SBM and its neighbours and stakeholders for management

input and / or action.

The ZOI must include all proposed new developments that may have an impact on

the HPNR, however as a commenting authority the Saldanha Bay Municipality must

ensure that no developments that may affect or impact on the PA should be allowed.

Important to notice here as the HPNR falls within the West Coast National Park buffer

zone – these are areas where land use changes could affect a National Park. The

buffer zone, in combination with guidelines, will serve as a

basis for identifying the focus areas in which park management and scientists

should respond to EIA’s,

helping to identify the sort of impacts that would be important at a particular site,

and most importantly,



serving as the basis for integrating long term protection of a national park into

the spatial development plans of municipalities (SDF/IDP) and other local

authorities .



SECTION 8 – ACCESS AND FACILITIES

The Hopefield Private Nature Reserve has no infrastructure except the recently

approved Langebaan Road Aquifer Groundwater Infrastructure development project

and the Elandsfontein access road (this is a registered servitude). This project was a

disaster management project (drought relief) and entailed the construction and the

development of roads, boreholes (X10), pipelines and powerlines. See Attachment 4 : Environmental Authorisation (DEAP&DP REFERENCE: 3/5/R (2018/40).

8.1 Public Access and Management

Travelling from Malmesbury, the PA may be reached by turning off the R45 at the

second turnoff into Hopefield. Follow Oak street, turning right at the Old Vredenburg

Rd, turn left at the Skilpadbessie Rd, follow this dirt road to the edge of town. The PA

will be on your right-hand side. No formal access gate is in place as this PA is not

open for recreation purposes or access by the public.

8.2 Flight corridors

No registered flight corridors exist in the PA, however the military aircraft fly over the

PA during training flights. These flight paths cannot be made public. South African

Civil Aviation Authority provides rules regarding flights over PA, this includes a

restriction of 2500 ft. above the highest point of the protected area.

8.3 Administrative and other facilities

No infrastructure exists on the PA (except as mentioned above relating to the

development of the well field and associated infrastructure and the Elandsfontein

access road a registered servitude. The SBM however have an administrative office in

Hopefield. The operational support to the PA is delivered from the Vredenburg offices.



8.3.1 Roads

Roads provide access to the boreholes for maintenance. The Elandsfontein access

road is a registered servitude on the PA. Wind erosion may become a management

problem in the future along these access routes. See Section 11 – Strategic Plan.

8.3.2 Buildings

No buildings are present in the PA. No buildings are planned, this is due to the

sensitivity of the PA in terms of vegetation.

8.3.3 Fences

Fences are in place in some sections of the PA. This aspect of management requires

attention. See Section 11 – Strategic Plan.

8.3.4 Signage

Signage is not present and needs to be designed and erected. Additional

recommendations are contained in Section 11 – Strategic Plan. NB the signage

should also focus on prohibited activities.

8.5 Servitudes

The access road to Elandsfontein is a registered servitude.



Figure 6 – Infrastructure at Hopefield Private Nature Reserve (Element Consulting Engineers)



SECTION 9 – EXPANSION STRATEGY

As noted in this PAMP the HPNR is an important stepping stone in the SANParks

inland corridor. Additionally the PA is included in the West Coast National Park Buffer

Area.

Expansion is possible through the following properties:

Farm 304/1 (317.71 ha) (the Hopefield Bombaan) - The property is owned by

the Department of Public Works;

Consolidation of SBM properties around the HPNR – however this process

needs community engagement and potentially the in-house capacity to manage

stewardship agreements.

For the duration of this management plan it is recommended that the focus should be

on building good relationships with neighbours through the PAAC. A solid collaborative

base is essential before any negotiation for expansion is initiated. This is an important

initiative but should be included for implementation after 2025.



SECTION 10 – CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT PLAN

The concept development plan sets out the long-term plan for the development of the

PA. Development should not negatively impact on the purpose of any of the

determining factors of the PA and should take the conditions of the WCNP Buffer Areas

into consideration (SANParks 2013).

No further development of the HPNR is envisaged by the SBM, the recent development

of the boreholes was necessary for water security. This is sufficient and associated

infrastructure must be maintained.



SECTION 11 : STRATEGIC PLAN

This section and the next section (costing) essentially provide a business plan for the

following five years. This section deals with the operational management of the PA

and all necessary operations are to be included here and should be specific,

measurable, attainable, realistic and time bound (SMART) (Gowan and Mpongoma

2011).

The following guidelines were used to compile the strategic plan for the HPNR.

The SBM policy statement supporting the implementation of each programme;

Identification of various projects;

Explanation for the need and desirability of each project;

Management recommendations and activities that should be implemented, and;

Provision of monitoring and baseline data collection measures in some

instances.

Biodiversity management

11.1. PROGRAMME: INDIGENOUS VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

11.1.1.Project: Plant species list

Explanation A comprehensive plant species list is necessary to make informative

management decisions at the HPNR.

Management Activities

A baseline plant species assessment needs to be

undertaken for the PA SBM Ongoing

Use students, interested groups and volunteers to build

on the initial study and information.

SBM and

other role-

players

Ongoing

Submit new information to SANBI’s Threatened Species

Programme. SBM Ongoing

Develop and maintain a GIS based plant species

database. SBM Ongoing



Baseline data Continuous updating of plant species

lists as more and more species are

documented

SBM Ongoing

11.1.2 Project: Research and other scientific papers

Explanation

As more relevant scientific papers are published for the PA, or areas

adjacent to the HPNR, the SBM should source these papers to

increase management capacity, the knowledge base and to

implement new scientifically based management strategies.

Similarly, botanical and other specialist studies / assessments

undertaken during the EIA process in and around the PA can serve

to increase baseline information.


Obtain relevant applicable scientific papers / reports for

the PA, this should be co-ordinated with other

stakeholders and interested parties wherever possible.

SBM Ongoing

Link the PA to research institutions and tertiary academic

institutions to obtain new research papers. Ensure links

with EIA review processes and information generation for

the PA.

SBM Ongoing

Keep record of these papers/ reports at the office of the

management authority. SBM Ongoing

11.2 PROGRAMME: RARE, ENDANGERED AND ENDEMIC PLANT SPECIES

11.2.1 Project: Map distribution

Explanation Information on the locality of Rare, Endangered and Endemic Plant

species is necessary to ensure effective management and monitoring

of these populations.


Generate baseline information on any Rare, Endangered

and Endemic plant species exist for the PA. SBM Initially



Use students, interested groups and volunteers (CREW)

to build on this initial identification and mapping. SBM

Ongoing

Expand to include other species of Conservation

Concern.

SBM Ongoing

Maintain survey information on a GIS database for spatial

reference.

SBM Ongoing

Print distribution maps to prevent impacts on plants, to

guide management interventions such as possible

impacts caused by visitors.

SBM

Ongoing

11.3 PROGRAMME: ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT

11.3.1 Project: Fund and implement the available plan

Explanation

The presence of alien invasive species in the Western Cape is an ever-

increasing threat and is posing one of the largest management

challenges for Protected Areas. These species have a negative impact

on indigenous species composition, changes in vegetation structure

and changes the local fire regime. A comprehensive alien invasive

plan, according to the Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act,

2004 was compiled and approved by the Department of Environmental

Affairs 2018 (Ranger and Du Plessis 2018).


Implement recommendations of the plan (Ranger and Du

Plessis 2018).

SBM Once off

Undertake follow up operations of cleared areas annually. SBM Annually

Ensure that no alien invasive plants are given the chance

to establish.

SBM Ongoing

Baseline data

The existing alien invasive management plan will be the baseline for alien invasive species management (Ranger and Du Plessis 2018).

SBM Ongoing



11.4. PROGRAMME: FIRE MANAGEMENT

11.4.1 Project: Membership of the Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association (GCFPA)

Explanation

The vegetation at the HPNR is fire prone. The fire frequency for this

vegetation type is 12-15 years. Fires could start on adjacent

municipal and privately-owned properties and will spread rapidly

due to the vegetation age (>17 years).

To adhere to the National Veld and Forest Fire Act, Act 101,of 1998.

Municipalities and or any state-owned land must join the local Fire

Protection Association and adhere to their rules. The SBM is already

a member of the GCFPA. The Act also prescribes that all

landowners should have firebreaks, have trained staff with PPC &

PPE and have adequate equipment. The SBM have a fire brigade

services.


Ensure that annual GCFPA membership fees are paid. SBM Once off

Adhere to the GCFPA rules and regulations SBM Ongoing

Engage with the GCFPA and seek assistance from them

for the use of their teams and to assist in integrated fire

management activities.

SBM Ongoing

Ensure that the proposed firebreaks are established and

maintained. SBM Ongoing

11.4.2 Project: Firebreaks

Establish and maintain a firebreak system in adherence of the National Veld and

Forest Fire Act, Act 101 of 1998, and to avoid the PA being burned by fires that start

outside the PA or that can pose a threat to the Hopefield community. Additionally,

effective awareness and a well capacitated Fire Brigade Service from the SBM will

prevent disastrous fires.




Adopt the fire break plan as suggested in this

management plan. See figure 7 – Fire break plan for the HPNR.

SBM

Once off

Figure 7 - Fire break plan for the HPNR.

11.4.3 Project: Fire prevention

Explanation

As the PA is remote in terms of distance to the management

authority, special care should be taken to prevent wildfires from

starting within the PA and spreading to adjacent properties. Fires

should be prevented through the implementation of various activities

that focus on early detection and reporting.


Design, develop and erect fire awareness signs to inform

the visitors of the danger and consequences of fires as

SBM Once off



well as the emergency number for the Fire Brigade

Services.

Undertake active law enforcement to enforce the rules

and regulations to prevent fires from starting in the PA.

SBM Ongoing

11.5 PROGRAM: TERRESTRIAL FAUNA SPECIES

11.5.1 Project: Species list

Explanation A comprehensive terrestrial fauna species list is necessary to take

informative management decisions at the HPNR – however no

species-specific management interventions are currently foreseen.


A baseline study is needed to confirm the appended

species list. See Attachment 5 - Forms to complete for Baseline data and Monitoring.

SBM

Completed

Use students, interested groups and volunteers to build

on this initial information.

SBM Ongoing

Develop and maintain a GIS based fauna species

database.

SBM Ongoing

11.5.2 Project : Re-introduction of game species

Explanation Due to the size of the HPNR no re-introduction of game that

historically occurred in the area will be done.


None

11.5.3 Project: Research and other scientific papers

Explanation

As more relevant scientific papers/reports are published for the PA,

the SB Municipality should source these papers/ reports to increase

management capacity, the knowledge base and to implement new

scientifically based management strategies.




Obtain relevant papers/ reports. SBM Ongoing

Link to research institutions and tertiary academics

institutions to obtain relevant research papers.

SBM Ongoing

Keep research papers in electronic and hard copies at

the Municipal offices at Vredenburg.

SBM Ongoing

11.5.4 Project: Prevent impacts on terrestrial species

Explanation The HPNR is in close proximity of the urban area of Hopefield and

the edge effect may impact on terrestrial species.


Erect signage to inform the public of the boundary of the

PA.

SBM Ongoing

Don’t allow any domestic animals in the PA. SBM Ongoing

Ensure that law enforcement activities are undertaken. SBM Ongoing

Engage with other stakeholders (e.g. the SPCA) to

control stray domestic animals found in the PA.

SBM Ongoing

Monitor and report the presence of any domestic and

stray animals (dogs and cats) on the PA.

SBM Ongoing

Map all illegal activities on a GIS system to build a spatial

picture of high-risk zones and to allocate available law

enforcement resources to those areas.

SBM

Ongoing

11.6 PROGRAM: RESTORATION ECOLOGY

11.6.1 Project: Map all disturbed areas

Explanation The existing denuded areas are evident after the construction of the

borehole system. These must be rehabilitated.




Determine, identify, map and evaluate all impacted

areas. See Attachment 5 - Forms to complete for Baseline data and Monitoring.

SBM Annually

Establish fixed point monitoring sites at each site. SBM Once off

Ensure that all degraded areas are rehabilitated. SBM Ongoing

11.6.2 Project : Rehabilitation

Explanation Disturbed areas can be rehabilitated once the maintenance needs

for the boreholes have been determined.


Once the maintenance needs for the boreholes have

been determined – map and demarcate all the areas

that can be excluded as no-go areas.

SBM

Once off

Initiate active rehabilitation of these sites – this to

include demarcation and closure of these sites.

SBM Once off

Monitor the rehabilitation success. SBM Ongoing



Cultural Historical, Archaeological and Paleontological Heritage Management

11.7. PROGRAM: CULTURAL HISTORICAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND PALAEONTOLOGICAL

HERITAGE

11.7.1 Project: Map and evaluate assets

Explanation

During the Heritage Impact Assessment study undertaken for the

proposed boreholes and associated pipelines development - No

archaeological or palaeontological resources were identified during

the foot survey, however, it is known that significant archaeological

and palaeontological resources may be evident below the ground

surface (CTS 2018).


Results from the CTS report (2018) must be provided

to the SBM.

SBM Once off

Make the PA available for research and baseline

studies for students in this field of expertise.

SBM Ongoing

Maintain the GIS database with the assistance from

institutions e.g. Heritage Western Cape (HWC).

SBM Ongoing

Baseline Data Management, Monitoring and Research

11.8 PROGRAM: BASELINE DATA COLLECTION

11.8.1 Project : Develop and implement a baseline data collection plan

Explanation

Baseline data is important to inform management decisions.

Guidelines on what information should be collected, the techniques

to be used, and the frequency of such activities. This will inform

management on the type of data to be collected.


Compile baseline data collection plan for the HPNR See Attachment 5 - Forms to complete for Baseline data and Monitoring.

SBM Once off



Implement the plan according to the timeframes and

techniques recommended. SBM Ongoing

11.9 PROGRAM: MONITORING

11.9.1 Project : Develop and implement a monitoring plan

Explanation

A monitoring plan is important to provide guidelines on what

information should be collected, the techniques to be used, and the

frequency of such activities. This will inform management on the type

of data to be collected, to determine success of management

activities and to identify change as soon as possible. See Attachment 5 - Forms to complete for Baseline data and Monitoring.


Compile a monitoring plan for the HPNR. SBM Once off

11.10 PROGRAM: RESEARCH

11.10.1Project: Promote research opportunities

Explanation The SBM should promote the availability of the HPNR as a research

area; this will ensure that scientific knowledge base will continually

improve over time.


Identify possible research projects. SBM Ongoing

Communicate and market the availability of the HPNR as

a research area to tertiary education institutions.

SBM Ongoing

Compile research protocol. SBM Ongoing

Ensure that SBM receives all the published scientific

papers and / or research findings.

SBM Ongoing

File these publications for audit purposes and

incorporate findings into management plan as applicable.

SBM Ongoing



Infrastructure Maintenance and Development

11.11 PROGRAM: ROADS

11.11.1. Project: Road Maintenance

Explanation One access road provides access to boreholes while another runs

on the southern boundary of the PA. Various roads provide access

to the different boreholes and these must be maintained.

Management activities

Maintain all access roads to prevent erosion caused by

wind or driving within natural areas.

SBM Ongoing

Roads that are not needed for maintenance of the

boreholes should be closed for any vehicles.

SBM Ongoing

11.12 PROGRAM: FENCING AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

11.12.1 Project: Improve current state of fence

Explanation

The current fence is in need of urgent attention. The fence will not

prevent poaching and therefore an integrated approach to law

enforcement must be implemented.


Determine and map the current state of all the external

fences.

SBM Once off

Replace fences where needed with fences that will still

allow the movement of smaller species like Grysbok and

tortoises.

SBM Once off

Conduct regular monitoring of the condition of fence and

repair fence when needed.

SBM Ongoing

Integrate the fencing with other security measures and law

enforcement activities

SBM Ongoing



11.12. 2 Project: Law enforcement

Explanation

Law enforcement is an important component of effective PA

management especially when a small, sensitive terrestrial protected

area is being managed. Without any effective and efficient law

enforcement activities environmental impacts and degradation will

accelerate over time.

Management Activity

Ensure that sufficient funds in the SBM budget are

approved to implement an integrated law enforcement

approach.

SBM Annually

Ensure that the Municipal organogram makes

provision for the appointment of law enforcement

officers.

SBM Annually

Engage with other institutions that are responsible for

law enforcement activities in the area e.g. SAPS.

SBM Annually

Develop a localised voluntary field ranger component

to assist with baseline data collection and a civil society

grouping can additionally assist with law enforcement.

SBM Ongoing

Schedule and implement regular law enforcement

activities by SBM officials and other law enforcement

partners.

SBM Ongoing

Develop a database where instances of Municipal

System Act (Act No.32 of 2003) illegal activities and

transgressions can be recorded. Determine risk areas

and a means of prioritisation to ensure that available

law enforcement can be aligned to these priority areas.

SBM

Ongoing



11.13 PROGRAM: DEVELOPMENT

11.13.1 Project: Development of facilities

Explanation Due to the status of the vegetation on the PA no development is

intended. If development occurs within the timeframe of this PAMP

then ensure adherence to the NEMA EIA Regulations.


Adhere to NEMA EIA Regulations. SBM Once off

11.13.2 Project : Development of the optimal staff organogram

Explanation Due to the sensitivity of the HPNR – it is important to ensure that

adequate numbers of staff are appointed to implement this PAMP.

Management

Engage in a formal process of determining if current staff

capacity is adequate to implement this PAMP.

SBM Once off

Evaluate outcomes of the capacity study. SBM Once off

Motivate if additional staff members are needed. SBM Once off

Develop Key Performance Areas for staff to be appointed. SBM Once off

Secure adequate funding to fill these vacancies. SBM Annually

Advertise and appoint staff that comply with the

requirements for specific positions / jobs.

SBM Annually

Employ and implement job performance appraisal

processes.

SBM Annually

11.13.3 Project : Staff development

Due to the sensitivity of the PA – it is important to ensure that staff involved in

management are well trained and capacitated.

Management



Identify all training and development needs, this to include

basic PA management and law enforcement skills.

SBM Annually

Implement training and capacity building programmes so

that staff are effective in their respective positions.

SBM Annually



SECTION 12 : COSTING PLAN

According to Section 41(2)(d) of the Act, a management plan must at least contain – a

programme that deals with the costing of the implementation of the plan. Costing is

directly linked to management of the PA and must therefore reflect:

Capital cost (conservation cost should be separated from tourism cost) and

Operational cost (again conservation and tourism cost must be separated)

As the HPNR is managed by the SBM and thus depends on government funding and

income from rates and taxes it is extremely difficult to provide a precise costing plan.

Furthermore, it should be noted here that other municipal service delivery programmes

are often regarded as more important than the conservation of protected areas and

natural systems and therefore innovative actions are needed to secure budgets to

manage these areas.

To guide the SBM in securing the budgets for the effective conservation management

of the HPNR the following guidelines are recommended for implementation;

Develop an APO, a draft APO based on this plan is attached, (See Attachment 7 – Draft APO).

Incorporate projects and potential budgets identified in this PAMP in the IDP

Process;

Link the HPNR to the creation of job opportunities – The PAMP identifies various

projects that need urgent implementation (security, law enforcement, education,

maintenance and rehabilitation services);

Link the HPNR to socio-economic development opportunities for the Hopefield

community – a community already in desperate need of employment

(contracting out certain services such as fence and road maintenance and alien

invasive species management programmes);

SB Municipality and the HPNR PAAC must specifically link with donors,

Government Departments, conservation agencies and sponsors to secure

additional funding and resources for the management of the protected area,.



However the SBM must ensure:

A financial procurement process is in place to allow for the above mentioned

guidelines;

That they secure a budget for these services.



SECTION 13 : REFERENCES

CapeNature. 2019. Dassen Coastal Complex Protected Area Management Plan:

2019- 2029. Western Cape Nature Conservation Board, Cape Town.

Cowan G.I. & Mpongoma N. 2011. Guidelines for the development of a management

plan for a protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management:

Protected Areas Act, 2003. Department of Environment Affairs, Pretoria.

CSIRO 2012. Management Strategy Evaluation. Marine and Atmospheric Research.

Cowling, RM, and Richardson, DM, 1995. Fynbos South Africa unique Floral Kingdom.

Fernwood Press, Vlaeberg.

CTS (2018) Proposed development of boreholes and associated pipelines for the

Langebaan Aquifer within the Hopefield Private Nature Reserve

Hockings M., Leverington F. & Cook C. 2015. Protected area management

effectiveness. In: Worboys G.L., Lockwood M., Kothari A., Feary S. & Pulsford I. (Eds).

Protected Area Governance and Management. ANU Press, Canberra

Maree, K.S. and Vromans, D.C., 2010. The Biodiversity Sector Plan for the Saldanha

Bay, Bergrivier, Cederberg and Matzikama Municipalities: Supporting land-use

planning and decision-making in Critical Biodiversity Areas and Ecological Support

Areas. Produced by CapeNature as part of the C.A.P.E. Fine-scale Biodiversity

Planning Project. Kirstenbosch.

Mucina, L. and Rutherford, M.C. (eds.) 2006. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho

and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

PN 337 of 7th May of 1982.

O’Donoghue, B., Kaplan J. & Wiltshire N., 2016. Saldanha Bay Municipality: Heritage

Resource Survey.



Ranger, S.K and Du Plessis C.P, 2018. Invasive species monitoring, control and

eradication plan for the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve for the Saldanha Bay

Municipality.

Saldanha Bay Municipality, 2019. A 4th Generation Integrated Development Plan 2019

– 2024.

South African National Parks (2013) Approved Management Plan for the West Coast

National Park 2013- 2023.

HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

Documents

Transcript of HOPEFIELD PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE