7 ECOLOGY

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1.1 This section presents the results of assessment of potential ecological impacts resulting from the Project.  The aim of ecological impact assessment is to provide sufficient and accurate ecological data to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction and evaluation of the potential ecological impacts.  The assessment was based on field surveys in addition to a review of existing literature including survey and assessment reports of the Assessment Area.  Ecological sensitive receivers were identified, and the ecological importance of habitats/species potentially affected by the proposed works was evaluated.  The scale of possible ecological impacts resulting from the proposed works was assessed, and necessary mitigation measures were identified.  Residual ecological impacts were assessed, and ecological monitoring and audit requirements identified.

7.2 Environmental Legislation, Policies, Plans, Standards and Criteria

7.2.1.1 Guidelines, standards, documents and ordinances/regulations listed in the following sections were referred to during the course of the ecological impact assessment.

7.2.1.2 The Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) provides for the designation and management of country parks and special areas.  Country parks are designated for the purpose of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

7.2.1.3 The Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) prohibits felling, cutting, burning or destroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on Government land.  Related subsidiary regulations prohibit the selling or possession of listed, restricted and protected plant species. 

7.2.1.4 Under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), designated wild animals are protected from being hunted, whilst their nests and eggs are protected from injury, destruction and removal.  All birds and most mammals, including marine cetaceans, are protected under this Ordinance.

7.2.1.5 The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) was enacted to align Hong Kong to control regime with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).  With effect from 1 July 2006, it replaces the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance (Cap. 187).  The purpose of the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is to restrict the import and export species listed in CITES Appendices so as to protect wildlife from overexploitation or extinction.  The Ordinance is primarily related to controlling trade in threatened and endangered species and restricting the local possession of them.

7.2.1.6 The amended Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131) provides for the designation of coastal protection areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Conservation Area, Country Park, Green Belt or other specified uses that promote conservation or protection of the environment.

7.2.1.7 Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standard and Guidelines (HKPSG) covers planning considerations relevant to conservation.  This chapter details the principles of conservation, the conservation of natural landscape and habitats, historic buildings, archaeological sites and other antiquities.  It also describes enforcement issues.  The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involved in conservation.

7.2.1.8 Annex 16 of the EIAO-TM sets out the general approach and methodology for assessment of ecological impacts arising from a project or proposal, to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction and evaluation of the potential ecological impacts.  Annex 8 recommends the criteria that can be used for evaluating habitat and ecological impact.

7.2.1.9 EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2002 clarifies the requirements of ecological assessments under the EIAO.

7.2.1.10 EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2002 provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfill requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

7.2.1.11 The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.  This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction.  The IUCN Red List also includes information on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatened thresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specific conservation programme.

7.2.1.12 The Key Protected Wildlife Species List details Category I and Category II protected animal species under the PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law.

7.3 Assessment Methodology

7.3.1 Scope of Ecological Assessment

7.3.1.1 The Assessment Area for the purpose of terrestrial ecological impact assessment included all areas within 500m of the site boundary of the land-based works areas.  For aquatic ecology, the Assessment Area was the same as that of the water quality impact assessment.  The boundary of the Assessment Area is shown in Figure 7.1.

7.3.2 Literature Review

7.3.2.1 Ecological assessment for this Project was undertaken with reference to available literature and academic studies (e.g., Carey et al., 2001; Karsen et al., 1998; Bascome et al., 1999; Wilson 2003).  Furthermore, reference was made to previous relevant studies including:-

l Feasibility Study of Waste-to-Energy Facilities Final EIA Report for Ha Pak Nai, CDM, August 2001. (Hereinafter to be referred to as WEF EIA Report);

l Additional Study of Waste-to-Energy Facilities, Final EIA Report, MWH, April 2003. (Hereinafter to be referred to as Additional WEF EIA Report);

l Feasibility Study of Animal Carcass Treatment Facilities, EIA Report, ERM, August 2003. (Hereinafter to be referred to as ACTF Report);

l Feasibility Study of Sludge Treatment Facilities Environmental Study Report, Metcalf & Eddy Ltd., January 2006. (Hereinafter to be referred to as STF ES Report);

l West New Territories (WENT) Landfill Extensions – Feasibility Study: Baseline Ecological Survey Report for Sludge Treatment Facilities, Arup, June 2008. (Hereinafter to be referred to as STF Baseline Report);

l Shenzhen Western Corridor - Investigation and Planning: EIA Report, Arup, September 2002; and

l Deep Bay Link - Investigation and Preliminary Design: EIA Report, Arup, 2002.

7.3.3 Ecology Survey Methodology

7.3.3.1 The Assessment Area of terrestrial ecological assessment included areas within 500m from the project site boundary.  For aquatic ecology, the Assessment Area was the same as the water quality impact assessment (300m of the project site boundary) or the area likely to be impacted by the Project. 

7.3.3.2 Ecological field surveys of the Assessment Area were conducted between March 2007 and August 2008 (covering dry and wet seasons) with a six-month detailed survey was undertaken from March 2008 to August 2008, to collate information on the ecological characters of the Assessment Area.  Surveys focused primarily on the Project Site and secondarily on the area within 500m from the project site boundary.  The survey schedule is given in Appendix 7.1, and the location plan of line transects and ecological surveys are presented in Figure 7.2.  Ecological survey results of the Assessment Area recorded between March 2007 and May 2008 were reported in STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) and are discussed in Literature Review Section (Section 7.4.2).  Results of the detailed survey between March 2008 and August 2008 are presented in Detailed Ecological Survey Result Section (Section 7.4.3).  The methodologies used for ecological surveys of the Assessment Area are described below.

7.3.4 Habitat and Vegetation

7.3.4.1 Habitat surveys were undertaken to determine the types, size and locations of habitats in the Assessment Area.  The habitat surveys were conducted via a desktop review of the most up to date aerial photographs and other relevant maps/plans available, followed by site visits.  Representative photographs of habitat types in the Assessment Area were taken.  Vegetation surveys were conducted by direct observation to record species present and relative abundance of species in different habitat types in representative parts of the Assessment Area.  The position of any plant species of conservation interest was recorded.  Habitat/vegetation surveys were conducted seven times during survey period in March, May, July, August and November 2007 and March and July 2008.

Avifauna

7.3.4.2 The bird communities of selected habitats within the Assessment Area were surveyed quantitatively using the transect count method.  All birds seen or heard were identified and counted.  Signs of breeding (e.g. nests, recently fledged juveniles) were also recorded.  Ornithological nomenclature in this report followed Carey et al. (2001).  Day surveys for avifauna were conducted eleven times during survey period in March, May, July, August and November 2007 and monthly in March to August 2008, while night surveys were carried out four times in August and November 2007 and March and August 2008.

Mammals

7.3.4.3 Mammals within the Assessment Area were surveyed qualitatively.  All sightings, tracks, and signs of mammals found were recorded.  Nomenclature of mammal followed Shek (2006).  Throughout the survey period, day surveys were conducted four times during survey period in May and August 2007 as well as May and July 2008 while night survey was carried out twice in August 2007 and August 2008.

Herpetofauna

7.3.4.4 Herpetofauna within the Assessment Area were surveyed qualitatively.  Potential microhabitats (e.g., leaf litter, underneath of rotten logs) were searched.  All reptiles and amphibians sighted were recorded.  As herpetofauna were mostly nocturnal and active during wet season, night surveys were carried out in wet season.  Amphibians were identified by their calls during night surveys.  Nomenclature of amphibian followed Chan et al. (2005) and reptile followed Karsen et al. (1998).  Day survey was conducted four times during survey period in May, July and August 2007 and June 2008, and night surveys were carried out three times in August 2007 and April and August 2008.

Dragonflies and Butterflies

7.3.4.5 Dragonflies and butterflies of selected habitats within the Assessment Area were surveyed quantitatively using the transect count method.  Nomenclature of dragonfly followed Wilson (2004) and nomenclature of butterfly followed Lo & Hui (2004).  Dragonfly and butterfly surveys were conducted five times during survey period in May, July and August 2007 and May and July 2008.

Freshwater Communities

7.3.4.6 Freshwater communities were studied by active searching and direct observation at streams and the ash lagoons.  Boulders in the stream were overturned to locate aquatic animals beneath.  Hand net was used to collect organisms along the stream.  All encountered organisms were identified to the lowest possible taxon and recorded.  Throughout the survey period, freshwater communities were surveyed five times during survey period in March, May, August and November 2007 and June and July 2008.

Intertidal Fauna

7.3.4.7 A total of 5 intertidal survey sampling locations were selected as shown in Figure 7.2 to collect representative information of the seawall along the East Lagoon.  Two of the sampling locations (Sites 1 and 2) were selected to cover the area near the abutment of the proposed vehicular bridge.  The surveys were conducted using line transects, with one transect deployed and laid perpendicular to the shoreline at each sampling location.  Line transects started from the high shore water mark down to low water.  

7.3.4.8 Along each transect, standard ecological sampling quadrats (dimensions 0.5m x 0.5m) were laid at 1m intervals.  Intertidal flora and fauna were identified and enumerated.  In general, mobile fauna were counted so that their abundance per unit area can be established.  Sessile organisms such as barnacles, oysters, algae and cyanobacteria were estimated in terms of percentage cover per fixed area.  Fauna were identified to species level as far as practicable.  Intertidal surveys were conducted six times during survey period in July and August 2007 and March, May, June and August 2008, covering both dry and wet seasons, while intertidal epifauna were sampled three times during the detailed study period in year 2008.

7.3.5 Impact Assessment Methodology

7.3.5.1 Potential ecological impacts arising from the Project were assessed following EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, with evaluation based on criteria in EIAO-TM Annex 8.

7.4 Description of the Environment

7.4.1 Areas of Conservation Interest

7.4.1.1 There are no areas of recognized conservation interest (such as Country Parks, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Coastal Protection Area (CPA) or Conservation Area (CA)) in the Assessment Area.

7.4.2 Literature Review

Habitat and Vegetation

7.4.2.1 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) covered the ash lagoons and 500m from the boundary of the lagoons.  Six habitat types were identified, including grassland/low shrubland, tall shrub/young secondary woodland, marsh, tidal channel, urbanized/disturbed and ash lagoons.  Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes mirabilis) was the only plant species of conservation concern found within the assessment area of that project.  It was recorded from streamside outside the boundary of the Assessment Area of the current Project.

7.4.2.2 The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded 8 habitats within the assessment area: secondary forest, plantation woodland, shrubland-grassland mosaic, wasteland, PFA lagoon, mangrove, developed area and stream.  A small patch of Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis) was recorded on one of the cut-slopes above Nim Wan Road while four patches of pitcher plant (Nepenthes mirabilis) were recorded from the East Lagoon and beside a stream in the west of the Assessment Area but outside the boundary of the Assessment Area of the current Project.

7.4.2.3 The STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) recorded 8 habitats within the assessment area: secondary woodland, grassland/shrubland, plantation, streams, wasteland/developed area, ash lagoons, mangrove and seawall.  No plant species of conservation interest was identified.

7.4.2.4 The STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) prepared under this Project recorded 8 habitats within the assessment area: natural woodland, plantation woodland, grassland/shrubland, mangrove/mudflat, ash lagoons, artificial seawall, urbanized/disturbed and stream/channel.  Pitcher Plant and Bamboo Orchid were recorded along upstream section of a stream passing through the WENT Landfill site.

7.4.2.5 Another plant species of conservation interest, Indian Orchid (Zeuxine strateumatica) was recorded at the ash lagoons in 1998 during a vegetation study (reviewed by Chau and Siu 1998).  The species is restricted in Hong Kong and largely limited to disturbed sites such as landfills, urban parks, cut slopes and open grassland (Xing et al., 2000).  Indian Orchid is protected by Cap. 96 and Cap. 586.

Fauna

(i) Avifauna

7.4.2.6 Within the ash lagoons, the Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) recorded 58 avifaunal species.  The STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) identified 68 avifaunal species from the ash lagoons and adjacent areas, with majority recorded from the lagoons. The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded 85 from the ash lagoons and adjacent areas.  Most of the records were also made from PFA lagoons and wasteland.  The STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) recorded 31 avifaunal species from the ash lagoons and its vicinity.

7.4.2.7 Within the ash lagoons and its vicinity, there were altogether 52 bird species of conservation interest recorded by the WEF EIA Report (CDM, 2001), Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003), ACTF Report (ERM, 2003), STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) and STF Baseline Report (Arup 2008).

7.4.2.8 Table 7.1 summarized the bird species of conservation interest recorded by previous studies.

Table 7.1        Avifauna of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded From the Ash Lagoons and its Vicinity 

Common Name*	Scientific Name	Level of Concern^1	Protection Status in China^2	WEF EIA^3	Add WEF EIA^3	ACTF^3	STF ES^3	STF Base^3
Little Grebe	Tachybaptus ruficollis	LC		x	x	x	x	x
Great Cormorant	Phalacrocorax carbo	PRC		x	x	x	x
Grey Heron	Ardea cinerea	PRC		x	x	x	x	x
Purple Heron	Ardea purpurea	RC				x
Great Egret	Casmerodius alba	PRC(RC)		x	x	x	x	x
Intermediate Egret	Egretta intermedia	RC		x	x
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	PRC(RC)		x	x	x	x	x
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	(LC)		x		x	x
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacclus	PRC(RC)		x	x	x	x	x
Striated Heron	Butorides striatus	(LC)					x
Yellow Bittern	Ixobrychus sinensis	(LC)				x
Common Teal	Anas crecca	RC		x	x
Spot-billed Duck	Anas poecilorhynchos	RC			x
Northern Pintail	Anas acuta	RC					x
Red-breasted Merganser	Mergus serrator	LC				x
Osprey**	Pandion haliaetus	RC	II			x
Black Kite**	Milvus migrans	(RC)	II	x	x	x	x	x
White-bellied Sea Eagle**	Haliaeetus leucogaster	(RC)	II					x
Crested Serpent Eagle**	Spilornis cheela	(LC)	II				x
Eastern Marsh Harrier**	Circus spilonotus	LC	II			x
Crested Goshawk**	Accipiter trivirgatus	-	II				x
Greater Spotted Eagle**	Auila clanga	GC	II				x
Imperial Eagle**	Aquila heliaca	GC	II		x
Common Kestrel**	Falco tinnunculus	-	II			x	x
Peregrine Falcon**	Falco peregrinus	(LC)	II	x
Eurasian Coot	Fulica atra	RC		x	x			x
Black-winged Stilt	Himantopus himantopus	RC		x	x		x
Grey-headed Lapwing	Vanellus cinereus	LC					x
Little Ringed Plover	Charadrius dubius	(LC)		x	x	x	x
Kentish Plover	Charadrius alexandrinus	RC			x
Common Redshank	Tringa erythropus	RC						x
Marsh Sandpiper	Tringa stagnatilis	RC					x
Common Greenshank	Tringa nebularia	RC			x
Wood Sandpiper	Tringa glareola	LC		x	x	x
Pintail/ Swinhoe's Snipe	Gallinago sternura/megala	LC				x
Common Snipe	Gallinago gallinago	LC			x	x
Caspian Tern	Sterna caspia	RC			x
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	-	II	x		x		x
Lesser Coucal	Centropus bengalensis	-	II	x		x
Pied Kingfisher	Ceryle rudis	(LC)					x	x
White-Breasted Kingfisher	Halcyon Smyrnensis	(LC)		x	x	x	x	x
Black-capped Kingfisher	Halcyon pileata	(LC)				x	x
Red-throated Pipit	Anthus cervinus	LC		x	x
Bluethroat	Luscinia svecica	LC				x
Hwamei	Garrulax canorus	-	II	x
Zitting Cisticola	Cisticola juncidis	LC			x	x	x
Chinese Penduline Tit	Remiz consobrinus	RC				x
Yellow-breasted Bunting	Emberiza aureola	RC				x
Red-billed Starling	Sturnus sericeus	GC				x	x
White-cheeked Starling	Sturnus cineraceus	PRC		x
White-shouldered Starling	Sturnus sinensis	(LC)		x		x
Black-naped Oriole	Oriolus chinensis	LC				x

Notes:

1. Fellowes et al. (2002); GC=Global concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern.  Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence.

2. Key Protected Wildlife Species List under PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law: II = Category II Protected Species.

3. WEF EIA = WEF EIA Report; Add WEF EIA = Additional WEF EIA Report; ACTF = ACTF Report; STF ES = STF ES Report; STF Base = STF Baseline Report.

*      All wild birds are protected under the Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)

**    Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)

7.4.2.9 In particular, breeding activities of Little Grebe were also reported from the Assessment Area in previous studies.

7.4.2.10 Table 7.2 listed the previous record of breeding activities of Little Grebe within the ash lagoons.  Figure 7.3 shows the location where breeding activities of Little Grebe previously recorded from the ash lagoons.  It should be noted, as suggested by the Additional WEF Report (MWH, 2003), the ash lagoons contributed to about 6% and 10% of the total breeding population in Hong Kong in 2000 and 2001 respectively.

Table 7.2        Breeding Activities of Little Grebes Previously Recorded From Ash Lagoons

Literature	Date	Location	Breeding Activities	Abundance
Additional WEF (MWH 2003)	August-September 2000 June 2001	East Lagoon East Lagoon Middle Lagoon West Lagoon	Full grown immature birds Recently hatched young birds Nest Breeding pairs Breeding pairs Breeding pairs	4 3 1 5 pairs 3 pairs At least 1 pair
ACTF EIA Report (ERM 2003)	August-December 2001	Open water of Lagoon	Birds foraging and loafing	Up to 11
STF ES Report (M&E 2006)	September-October 2004	Middle Lagoon	Juvenile birds	3
STF Baseline Report (Arup 2008)	Wet season 2007	Middle Lagoon	Nests	3

7.4.2.11 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003), the ACTF EIA Report (ERM, 2003) and the STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) noticed most population of avifaunal species of conservation interest recorded within the ash lagoons and the vicinity were not of particular conservation importance, as their numbers recorded from the Assessment Area only constitute a very small proportion of the total population of that species in Hong Kong.  After reviewing, the STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) recognized 5 species with populations considered to be of conservation importance in the Ash Lagoons, which include Little Grebe, Osprey, Little Ringed Plover, White-breasted Kingfisher and Pied Kingfisher.  Table 7.3 summarized the species within the ash lagoons and its vicinity with population considered of conservation importance.

Table 7.3        Avifauna Previously Recorded from the Ash Lagoons and Vicinity with Populations of Conservation Importance

Common Name	Scientific Name	Importance of the Ash Lagoons and Vicinity to the Species
Little Grebe	Tachybaptus ruficollis	Little Grebes have restricted breeding range in Hong Kong. Several pairs of this species have been recorded breeding in the ash lagoons.
Osprey	Pandion haliaetus	The ash lagoons and vicinity support a significant proportion of the migrant population of Osprey that is declining in Hong Kong.
Little Ringed Plover	Charadrius dubius	Little Ringed Plover have restricted breeding range in Hong Kong. Several pairs of this species have been recorded breeding in the ash lagoons.
White-breasted Kingfisher	Halcyon pileate	White-breasted Kingfisher have a declining breeding range in Hong Kong. The ash lagoons and adjacent areas form a probable breeding site for this species.
Pied Kingfisher	Ceryle rudis	Pied Kingfishers are uncommon, localized residents in Hong Kong. The ash lagoons and adjacent areas may provide a potential breeding habitat for this species.

(ii) Mammals

7.4.2.12 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) reported Ryukyu Mouse (Mus caroli) trapped in the ash lagoons and small mammal burrows within and adjacent to the lagoons.  Ryukyu Mouse was first recorded in Mai Po area in 1992 (Goodyer, 1992; Chandraesekar-Rao, 1994).  It usually occurs from grassland, upland stream valley surrounded by secondary forest, and agricultural land from several widely separated areas in the New Territories (Anon, 1995a; Ecosystem, 1996, 2000; Ades and Reels 1998).  It is regarded as of ‘local concern’ by Fellowes et al. (2002).

7.4.2.13 Burrow entrances of rats (Rattus spp. or Niviventer fulvescens) and dog footprints beside the lagoons were recorded in the Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH 2003). Rodent burrows were also seen in the East and Middle Lagoons.

7.4.2.14 The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded the scats of Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica) on a grassy hillside above Nim Wan Road and on a concrete path around the East Lagoon.  It also recorded some footprints of Barking Deer (Muntiacus reevesii) or Indian Muntjac (M. muntjak).  Small Indian Civet and Indian Muntjac are abundant and widespread in Hong Kong while the distribution of Barking Deer remains unclear (Shek, 2006).  These species are protected under Cap. 170.

7.4.2.15 The STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) reported direct observation of two mammal species of Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Dog-faced Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx) within the assessment area.  Indirect evidence such as footprints or scats of three mammal species Masked Palm Civet (Paguma larvata), Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) and Small Asian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus) was also made from areas of wet, exposed fly ash in the Middle Lagoon.  Japanese Pipistrelle and Dog-faced Fruit Bat are abundant in Hong Kong while Masked Palm Civet, Leopard Cat and Small Asian Mongoose are uncommon.  Apart from Small Asian Mongoose with distribution mainly in countryside of New Territories, the above species are widespread in Hong Kong, but they are protected under Cap. 170.  Amongst these, Masked Palm Civet has a declining regional population, and considered of potential regional concern by Fellowes et al. (2002).

7.4.2.16 The STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) recorded five species of mammals in the assessment area.  Direct observation of Leschenault’s Rousette (Rousette leschenaultia), Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx) and Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrelle abramus) were made in the WENT Landfill site, and Small Asian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus rubtifrons) was also sighted on the access road of the ash lagoon.  Scats of Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica) were found on the seawall of ash lagoon.  These species are widespread in Hong Kong, but they are protected under Cap. 170.

7.4.2.17 Shea et al. (1995) recorded five species of mammals on the WENT Landfill and the vicinity including Asian House Rat (Rattus tanezumi), Chestnut Spiny Rat (Niviventer fulvescens), Lesser Rice-field Rat (Rattus losea), Woodland Shrew (Suncus murinus), and Small Asian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus).  Rodent and insectivore populations were expected to be supported by the woodland and shrubland habitats at Nim Wan (MWH, 2003).  Mongoose is large and mobile, and would be expected to move throughout the area.  They probably forage in areas abundant of rodent and reptile, but not in the ash lagoons (ibis).

(iii) Herpetofauna

7.4.2.18 Six amphibian and 4 reptile species were identified in ACTF Report (ERM, 2003), three amphibian and 10 reptile species in the STF ES Report (M&E, 2006), and 2 amphibian and 4 reptile species in STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) from the ash lagoons and adjacent areas.  The majority are common and widespread in Hong Kong except the uncommon but widespread Grass Lizard (Takydromus sexlineatus ocellatus) was found in October 2004 in STF ES Report (M&E, 2006).

(iv) Dragonflies and Butterflies

7.4.2.19 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) recorded 6 dragonfly species and 5 butterfly species dominated by the Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens).  All species are common and widespread in Hong Kong.

7.4.2.20 The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded 22 dragonfly and 39 butterfly species. The majority of species are common and widespread in Hong Kong except Coastal Glider (Macrodiplax cora), which is uncommon in Hong Kong (Wilson, 2004) and listed as “local concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002).  The species was found in good numbers utilizing the East and Middle Lagoons.  Coastal Glider has an extreme widespread global distribution and can be found in KCRC’s constructed wetland at Kam Tin and the Hong Kong Wetland Park.

7.4.2.21 The STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) recorded 7 dragonfly and 18 butterfly species and the STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) recorded 8 dragonfly and 11 butterfly species. All recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong.

(v) Freshwater Communities

7.4.2.22 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) recorded that the freshwater communities were limited to a large population of corixid water-beetles at the East Lagoon, and only two species of fish, Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) and Mullet (Mugl/Lisa sp.) were sighted at the Middle Lagoon and in the tidal channel respectively.  Freshwater Long-armed Shrimp (Macrobrachium sp.) was observed in the upstream reach of the stream west of the ash lagoons outside the assessment boundary.

7.4.2.23 The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded 11 fish species from streams and PFA lagoons.  All the recorded species are common in Hong Kong except Squaliobarbus curriculus and an unconfirmed cyprinid species (Osteochilus vittatus). Squaliobarbus curriculus had not been recorded previously in Hong Kong whereas Osteochilus vittatus is rare in Hong Kong and has been recorded from a few local reservoirs (Lee et al., 2004).  Amphipods and chironomids were abundant in the two streams.  Dragonfly and stonefly larvae were recorded in the stream near the WENT Landfill while oligochaetes and polychaetes were recorded in the western stream.  Species richness of the two streams was low.

7.4.2.24 The STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) found that fish communities in the tidal channel and lower reaches of stream west of the assessment area were dominated by common estuarine species such as Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus) and Jarbua terapon (Terapon jarbua).  One fish species recorded Dark-margined Flagtail (Kuhlia marginata) is of regional concern.  Invertebrate communities in streams were of poor species diversity dominated by taxa tolerant of brackish waters (e.g. amphipods and polycheates).  Invertebrate communities in the East and Middle Lagoons were of low species diversity abundant of libellulid dragonfly nymphs, small crustaceans such as ostracods and copepods and notonectid/corixid water-bugs.  Vast numbers of the water snail (Melanoides tuberculata) were present in the shallow pools in the East Lagoon.

7.4.2.25 The STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) recorded similar results as the above previous studies.  The diversity and abundance of stream west of the assessment area were much higher than Tsang Kok Stream.  Atyid shrimp (Caridina cantonensis), small pond skaters and crabs (Varuna litterata) were also found in the stream west of the assessment area.

(vi) Intertidal Fauna

7.4.2.26 The Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003) recorded 5 epifauna species on the seawall of the ash lagoons with the Common Rock Oyster (Saccostrea cucullata) dominated the area.  The species found were common and not of local conservation concern.

7.4.2.27 Similar finding was obtained by the STF ES Report (M&E, 2006) and the STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008), with very poor species diversity.  No species were found on the upper shore of the seawall.  The mid-low shore was dominated by Nerita yoldii and low shore was dominated by Saccostrea cucullata.  High abundance of a common crab species (Metapograpsus quadridentatus) in western waters was recorded.  All of the recorded species are common.  STF ES Report (M&E 2006) showed that the substratum adjacent to the mangrove habitat at the mouth of tidal channel was dominated by Oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and a couple of mudskippers (Periophthalmus).  All species recorded are common and widespread in Hong Kong.

7.4.2.28 The ACTF Report (ERM, 2003) recorded six gastropods, four bivalves, eight crustacean taxa and the mudskipper (Periophthalmus cantonensis) in the intertidal zone between the ash lagoons and the small mangrove.  All species recorded are common and widespread in Hong Kong.

7.4.2.29 The STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008) recorded a low abundance of Common Rock Oyster (Saccostrea cucullata) dominated the artificial seawall at the Ash Lagoons.  In the channel near the mangrove, only common mangrove-associated and estuarine fauna such as mudskippers (Periophthalmus cantonensis, Perisesarma bidens, Cerithiedia djajdariensis and Terebalia sp.) were found.

7.4.2.30 Horseshoe Crabs were not recorded from the previous studies conducted near the Assessment Area.  Nevertheless, in northwestern New Territories, Horseshoe Crab Tachypleus tridentatus were recently reported in Tsim Bei Tsui, Pak Nai and Ha Pak Nai while Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda were also found in Sheung Pak Nai (Shin 2007).  The beaches at Lung Kwu Sheung Tan and Lung Kwu Tan have been identified as potential breeding sites for T. gigas (ERL, 1992; ERM, 1993).  T. tridentatus, T. gigas and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda are all species known from the South China Sea, and three of four species known worldwide.  All these species are considered to be under severe pressure in the South China Sea, including Hong Kong, due to habitat loss and overexploitation (Huang, 1997).  Horseshoe crabs are listed as “Data Deficient” by IUCN, indicating that existing knowledge is insufficient to determine whether they are threatened or endangered.  In Hong Kong, Horseshoe Crabs are regarded as species of potential conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002).  All the three species were once recorded in the Hong Kong (Chiu and Morton, 1999).  However, their populations have dropped sharply in recent years.  There has been no report on Tachypleus gigas in Hong Kong for 20 years (ibis).

(vii) Marine Mammals

7.4.2.31 The waters near Black Point were one of the several hotspots consistently utilized by the Indo-Pacific Humpbacked Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) since 2002 (Hung, 2008).  Dolphin sightings were concentrated in the waters between Black Point and Lung Kwu Chau, but were rarely made near the coastal waters from Black Point to Tap Shek Kok to Ma Wan Channel and Deep Bay (Hung, 2007).  There were less than 30 sightings in Deep Bay waters northern to Black Point during Jefferson’s study period (Jefferson, 2007), and 4 sightings were made in Deep Bay in 2007-08 (Hung, 2008).  Most of the unspotted calves and juveniles were recorded between Black Point and Lung Kwu Chau (Hung, 2008). These areas were considered important areas for nursing mother and their calves (ibis). Within the Assessment Area, no dolphin sightings were reported from Jefferson (2007) and Hung (2008). They were distributed further away from the coastal waters. The Assessment Area is not considered an important habitat for marine mammals and no further survey was conducted under this Project.

(viii) Subtidal Fauna

7.4.2.32 Consultancy Study on Marine Benthic Communities in Hong Kong (CCPC, 2002) commissioned by AFCD provided territory-wide information on the subtidal benthic communities including spatial distribution and species composition. Samples were collected from 120 stations over the waters in Hong Kong, which was divided into five regions.  The Western waters region covering Urmston Road, Deep Bay and North Lantau is relevant to the present Study, while Station 6 to 8 were lied in outer Deep Bay but outside the Assessment Area.  The benthos habitat off the Assessment Area was composed of very fine sand and/or silt/clay.  Species diversity and evenness in this habitat was moderate, represented by the bivalve Potamocorbula larvis, and the polychaetes Mediomastus californiensis and Mediomastus sp. in summer, and the polychaetes Nephtys polybranchia, Spionidae sp., Heteromastus filiformis, Otopsis sp., Mediomastus sp. and Neanthes sp. in winter.  No benthic species of conservation concern was recorded from the three stations. Table 7.4 showed the physical and biological parameters for sediments in waters off the Assessment Area.

Table 7.4        Physical and Biological Parameters for Sediment in the Vicinity Water of the Ash Lagoons Recorded from Previous Study (CCPC, 2002).

Physical / Biological Parameters	Summer	Winter
Water Depth (m)	5.5 - 12.0	5.0 - 11.0
Mean TOM (%)	4.61 - 6.41	3.42 - 6.68
Particle Size	5.13 - 6.02	2.70 - 5.87
Number of Species (0.5 m^2)	19 - 37	23 - 61
Number of Individuals (m^2)	124 – 1044	176 - 1208
Wet Weight (g m^2)	66.78 – 273.08	38.90 – 69.96
Species Richness (d)	3.52 - 5.80	4.35 - 9.37
Species Diversity (H’)	0.89 - 2.54	1.74 - 2.70
Species Evenness (J)	0.29 - 0.86	0.56 - 0.80
Taxonomic Diversity (Δ)	31.60 - 67.45	41.84 - 66.55
Taxonomic Distinctness (Δ*)	69.46 – 96.10	61.50 - 75.80

7.4.2.33 Grab sampling surveys were conducted in the EIA study for LNG Black Point option (ERM, 2007) in Urmston Road and Black Point in both wet and dry seasons. The species diversity of the benthic community at Black Point and Urmston Road was typical to other similar habitat in Hong Kong.  No species of conservation concern was recorded (ibid).

7.4.2.34 The geographical distribution of reef-building scleractinian corals in Hong Kong is influenced by the water salinity.  The Western waters nearer to the Pearl River tend to support low coverage and diversity of hard corals mainly due to its estuarine environment.  Results from the intensive underwater surveys commissioned by AFCD during 2001 and 2002 confirmed the low hard coral coverage and species diversity in the Western waters.  Gorgonians, especially blue gorgonian Guaiagorgia, were found along much of the coastline at Lantau.  Dive survey conducted under another EIA study at Pillar Point (ERM, 2006) showed that only small-sized isolated gorgonians Echinomuricea occurred in low abundance in the survey area.

7.4.3 Detailed Ecological Survey Result

Habitat and Vegetation

7.4.3.1 Nine territorial habitat types were identified, namely ash lagoon, secondary woodland, grassland/shrubland, plantation, watercourse, developed area/disturbed area, seawall, orchard and coastal waters during the ecological surveys conducted under this Project.

7.4.3.2 A habitat map of the Assessment Area is presented in Figure 7.1.  Representative photographs of habitats are given in Appendix 7.2.  Photographs of plant species of conservation interest are presented in Appendix 7.3.  Vegetation recorded within the Assessment Area is listed in Appendix 7.4.  Habitats recorded within the Assessment Area are listed in Table 7.5.  Further description of habitat types recorded in the Assessment Area is given in the following sections.

Table 7.5        Habitats Recorded within the Assessment Area

Habitat Type	Area (ha)
Ash Lagoon	28.35
Developed Area/ Disturbed Area	32.00
Plantation	3.91
Watercourse	2.36 Length of watercourses W1: 792m; W2: 1336m; W3: 583m
Grassland/ Shrubland	27.77
Seawall	1.45 Length of seawall: 2269m
Secondary Woodland	3.77
Orchard	0.56
Coastal Waters	29.40

(i) Ash Lagoon

7.4.3.3 Two ash lagoons, namely East Lagoon and Middle Lagoon, of area 9.16 ha and 19.16 ha respectively were recorded within the Assessment Area.  The proposed STF would be located at the northern part of the East Lagoon.

7.4.3.4 Habitat conditions of East and Middle Lagoons were found to be unstable and were governed by two major factors: the CLP’s pulverised fuel ash (PFA) filling activities and rainfall.  The habitat in the East Lagoon was more volatile than that in the Middle Lagoon.

7.4.3.5 Vegetation including grasses and shrubs covered the northern portion of the East Lagoon.  Shrubs at the edge of the Lagoon were dominated by a pioneer species, Macaranga tanarius.  Salt-tolerant ruderal species (e.g. Sesbania javanica and Spergularia marina) were also recorded dominating the area.  The water level in the Lagoon fluctuated from completely dry to approximately 25% flooded after a series of heavy rainstorms in June 2008 (Appendix 7.5 refers).  It should be noted that flooded area was only observed from the northern part of the Lagoon as the southern part was occupied by dunes of PFA during the course of survey.

7.4.3.6 Similarly, the water level in the Middle Lagoon also varied considerably with rainfall.  During dry season, several small shallow pools were formed in the southern portion, covering approximately 50% of the total Lagoon area.  Phragmites sp. was the dominant plant found on small islands formed among the open water.  The Lagoon was found to be fully flooded by water in June 2008.  The water level then gradually dropped probably due to evaporation.  No noticeable PFA filling activities were observed during the surveys.  Photographs showing the water level at the East and Middle Lagoon during survey period are provided in Appendix 7.5.

7.4.3.7 Species diversity in this habitat was low, and no plant species of conservation interest was recorded within the ash lagoons during the surveys.

(ii) Secondary Woodland

7.4.3.8 Secondary woodland habitats recorded in the Assessment Area were largely confined to a thin strip of land between Nim Wan Road and the East and Middle Lagoons.  The woodland habitats were relatively young.  Vegetation commonly reported from this habitat included pioneer species capable of tolerating the relatively harsh conditions such as Ficus hirta, Celtis sinensis, Leucaena leucocephala, Microcos paniculatus, Rhus spp. and Sterculia lanceolata. No plant species of conservation interest were recorded from the woodland habitats and species diversity was considered to be low-moderate.

(iii) Grassland/Shrubland

7.4.3.9 Grassland/shrubland habitat within the Assessment Area included the hillsides south of Nim Wan Road, the periphery of the East and Middle Lagoons, the hillside behind the plantation of WENT Landfill and small patch of land located at the mouth of the tidal channel and adjacent to the entrance of the WENT Landfill site.  These areas were typical uplands, highly eroded with numerous patches of bare earth and rocky outcrops, and subject to frequent hill-fires.  Vegetation was generally sparse and dominated by grasses (e.g. Cyclosorus acuminatus) and shrubs (e.g. Hibiscus tiliaceus, Litsea rotundifolia, Lantana camara, Vitex rotundifolia, Celtis sinenisi, Macaranga tanarius, and Rhus spp.) and species capable of tolerating the relatively harsh conditions.  Species diversity in this habitat was low.

7.4.3.10 An individual of plant species of conservation interest, Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis), was found at the edge of grassland /shrubland habitat near the mouth of watercourse W1.  Incense Tree is common in Hong Kong and is usually found in lowland forest and fung shui woods (Xing et al., 2000).  The species receives wide protection all over the world.  It is protected under Cap. 586 in Hong Kong.  In China, it is listed as Category II nationally protected species.  It is regarded as vulnerable in both the China Plant Red Data Book and IUCN Red Data Book.

(iv) Plantation

7.4.3.11 Plantation habitats in the Assessment Area were identified on engineering slopes south to Nim Wan Road, the slopes within the WENT Landfill site as well as the roadside near the WENT Landfill site office.  These areas were dominated by commonly planted exotic tree species (e.g. Acacia confusa and Eucalyptus sp.), with some native pioneer species (e.g., Celtis sinensis, Ficus virens and Sterculia lanceolata). 

7.4.3.12 The roadside plantation was limited to trees and other amenity planting along with occasional patches of weedy herbaceous and woody plant species (e.g. Bidens pilosa, Lantana camera, Ageratum conyzoides, Cyclosorus acuminatus, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius and Mikania micrantha).

7.4.3.13 Species diversity in this habitat was low, and no plant species of conservation interest was recorded from plantation habitat.

(v) Watercourse

7.4.3.14 Three watercourses were recorded in the Assessment Area.  Two of them (W1 and W2 as shown in Figure 7.1) discharged into a tidal channel east of the ash lagoons were of moderate size.  Shrubby riparian vegetation with occasional trees were established along part of the stream banks.  The third one (W3) located inside the WENT Landfill site was in relatively small scale.

7.4.3.15 Watercourse W1 is formed from several small tributaries that run through grassland/shrubland and woodland habitats west of the Assessment Area.  The tributaries in these upper reaches were outside the Assessment Area and basically more natural, with a bank comprised of fine sand deposits.  The lower reaches were channelized with geo-textile matting at the bank and directed to the south of the ash lagoons.

7.4.3.16 Watercourse W2 drains into the tidal channel from the southeast.  While the upper reach of watercourse W2 is natural, the lower reach flows through the WENT Landfill site and was channelized with concrete.  Two plant species of conservation importance were recorded.  Two patches of Bamboo Orchid (Arundina graminifolia) and four small colonies as well as a single large colony of Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes mirabilis) were found at the upstream section of watercourse W2.  Bamboo Orchid is a very common terrestrial herb that usually inhabits grassland or streamsides in Hong Kong (Siu, 2000).  Pitcher Plant is a common carnivorous herb that inhabits wet, open places on rocky areas.  Both species are protected under Cap. 96 and Cap. 586 and Pitcher Plant is also listed in CITES Appendix II.

7.4.3.17 Watercourse W3 is a man-made concrete channel located inside the WENT Landfill site and was nearly drained during the field surveys.

(vi) Developed Area/Disturbed Area

7.4.3.18 Developed/disturbed habitat refers to highly disturbed wasteland formed as a result of intensive human activities and either wholly or partly covered by weedy or ephemeral vegetation.  Developed/disturbed habitat in the Assessment Area included WENT Landfill site and the access roads along Nim Wan Road.  Most of the areas were disturbed and some were found to be devoid of vegetation.  The vegetative habitat was dominant by herbs (e.g. Panicum repens) and shrubs (e.g. Sesbania javanica).  No plant species of conservation interest was recorded in this habitat.

(vii)     Seawall

7.4.3.19 Artificial seawall was found surrounding the ash lagoons and WENT Landfill site, and was colonized by a few plant species, e.g. Celtis sinensis, Lantana camara and Ficus virens.  It is of typical to other man-made seawalls in Hong Kong that is not sheltered.  At the base of the seawall, some boulders are covered with Gellidium pusillum.  A portion of seawall in WENT Landfill is in vertical form.  Species diversity in this habitat was low.

(viii) Orchard

7.4.3.20 A small patch of orchard was found at the south-western part of the Assessment Area.  Vegetative species in this type included common fruit trees (e.g. Musa x paradisiaca, Dimocarpus longan and Syzgium jambos).  Species diversity in this habitat was low and no plant species of conservation interest was recorded.

(ix) Coastal Waters

7.4.3.21 Marine environment of coastal waters was identified at the north of the Assessment Area.  It falls within the Deep Bay Water Control Zone and belongs to the Outer Deep Bay area.  Subjected to influence of freshwater discharge from the Pearl River, the Deep Bay area is characterized by its less saline waters with high level of suspended solids.  In 2006, the Water Quality Objectives (WQO) compliance in the Deep Bay WCZ was low at 40% and water quality in this zone was considered the poorest in the territory (EPD, 2007).

Fauna

(i) Avifauna

7.4.3.22 A total of 57 avifaunal species were recorded from the Assessment Area during the recent surveys (Appendix 7.6).  Most of the species were recorded from the Middle Lagoon.  Twenty-one species are considered of conservation interest and listed in Table 7.6 below.

Table 7.6        Avifaunal Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within the Assessment Area

Common Name*	Scientific Name	Level of Concern^1	Protection Status in China^2	Distribution in Hong Kong^3
Little Grebe	Tachybaptus ruficollis	LC	-	common
Grey Heron	Ardea cinerea	PRC	-	common
Great Egret	Casmerodius alba	PRC(RC)	-	common and widespread
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	PRC(RC)	-	common and widespread
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	(LC)	-	uncommon
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacclus	PRC(RC)	-	common and widespread
Blacked- crowned Night Heron	Nycticorax nycticorax	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Osprey**	Pandion haliaetus	RC	II	common and widespread
Black Kite**	Milvus migrans	(RC)	II	common and widespread
Common Buzzard**	Buteo buteo	-	II	common and widespread
Little Ringed Plover	Charadrius dubius	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Wood Sandpiper	Tringa glareola	LC	-	common and widespread
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	-	II	common and widespread
Pacific Swift	Apus pacificus	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Pied Kingfisher	Ceryle rudis	(LC)	-	uncommon
White-Breasted Kingfisher	Halcyon Symrnensis	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Black-capped Kingfisher	Halcyon pileata	(LC)	-	common and widespread
Blue-tailed Bee-eater	Merops philippinus	-	-	scarce
Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike	Coracina melaschistos	-	-	scarce
White-shouldered Starling	Sturnus sinensis	(LC)	-	common

Notes:

1. Fellowes et al. (2002); GC=Global concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern.  Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence.

2. Key Protected Wildlife Species List under PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law: II = Category II Protected Species.

3. Information taken from Carey et al. (2001).

*      All wild birds are protected under the Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)

**    Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)

Little Grebe

7.4.3.23 A peak count of 8 and 23 individuals of Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis) was recorded from the open water of the East and Middle Lagoons respectively during the surveys in August 2008.  The species is locally common in Deep Bay and present throughout the year (Carey et al, 2001).  It is considered of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the limited number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong.  

7.4.3.24 Little Grebe favors habitats with open water and emergent vegetation, with low fish populations, which support a relatively high abundance of aquatic invertebrate (MWH, 2003).  They utilize a wide range of wet areas including gei-wais at Mai Po, and also elsewhere on fishponds and reservoirs.

7.4.3.25 Two juveniles from two broods were recorded in the East Lagoon, and a breeding pair and their 4 recently hatched chicks in the Middle Lagoons indicating the lagoon habitat was used by the species for breeding.  The breeding season of this opportunist breeder can be long and varies with the amount of rainfall during the year.  Heavy rainfall in the summer floods out some nests and birds may re-build and lay again during the early autumn (Carey et al, 2001).  The nesting density of Little Grebes has a broad variation, depending mainly on the emergent vegetation cover.  The nesting distance could be ranged from 13 m to 465 m (MWH, 2003).  

Ardeids

7.4.3.26 Seven species of ardeid were recorded from the Assessment Area during recent surveys, which included Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), Great Egret (Casmerodius alba), Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), Pacific Reef Egret (Egretta sacra), Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacclus) and Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax).  The large, secure populations of Great Egret, Little Egret and Grey Heron which occur in Hong Kong are considered important in a regional context (Fellowes et al., 2002).  In spite of their decline numbers in Hong Kong, the local population is still large enough to be of regional significance (Carey et al, 2001).  Pacific Reef Egret, Cattle Egret and Black-Crowned Night Heron are considered of local concern due to the restricted number of breeding sites in Hong Kong (Fellowes et al., 2002).

7.4.3.27 Most of Little Egret was recorded in Middle Lagoon with a peak count of 27 individuals in July 2008.  Other records from one to five birds were made in East Lagoon, grassland/shrubland, seawall and watercourse W1.  However, the number of Little Egret recorded only constitutes a very small of the species’ average winter population of 1140 in Deep Bay and was not considered of conservation importance in the Assessment Area.

7.4.3.28 The numbers of Grey Heron, Great Egret and Chinese Pond Heron within the Assessment Area were relatively low in comparison to the total population of the species in Hong Kong.  A peak count of two Grey Heron, six Great Egret and five Chinese Pond Heron were recorded.  As compared to average winter populations of 1280, 490 and 327 individuals in Deep Bay Area (Carey et al, 2001), the Assessment Area was not considered of conservation importance for these species.

7.4.3.29 A peak count of 3 Cattle Egrets was made from watercourse and developed area/disturbed area in April 2008.  Only a single individual of Pacific Reef Egret was recorded in watercourse W1 in July 2008, and a single individual of Black-crowned Night Heron was found in grassland/shrubland habitat in April 2008 and in the East Lagoon in August 2008.  The local populations of these species are considered of conservation interest in considering the restricted breeding range in Hong Kong.  

Raptors

7.4.3.30 Three species of raptor were recorded from the Assessment Area during the surveys: Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Black Kites (Milvus lineatus) and Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo).  All of them are listed as Category II under PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law.  Common Buzzards are common and widespread in Hong Kong. They inhabit in a wide range of habitats.

7.4.3.31 A single individual of Osprey were recorded flying over the proposed site in June 2008.  Fellowes et al (2002) considered the species as of regional conservation concern due to its restricted population in both regional and local context.  The species is locally common winter visitor with occasional summer records (Carey et al, 2001).  Most records are from Inner Deep Bay, but it is also widespread in coastal areas (ibid).  The highest number of 26 in Deep Bay Area was recorded in November 2005 (Yu, 2006).

7.4.3.32 A peak count of three Black Kites was recorded from the Middle Lagoon, plantation and developed area/disturbed area in May and August 2008.  Black Kites are abundant winter visitors and occur in the urban areas and over Victoria Harbour (Carey et al, 2001).  They are considered of conservation interest in Hong Kong due to the restricted nesting and roosting ranges (Fellowes et al, 2002).  The current breeding population is thought to be around 30 pairs (Carey et al, 2001).

7.4.3.33 Common Buzzard is common winter visitor and scarce passage migrant in Hong Kong (Carey et al, 2001).  They inhabit in a wide range of habitats at all altitudes (ibis).  They are not considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al (2002).  A single individual was recorded in grassland/shrubland in the Assessment Area in March 2008.

Waders

7.4.3.34 Two species of waders recorded in the Assessment Area were of conservation interest including Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius) and Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola).  A peak count of 30 individuals of Little Ringed Plover and a single individual were recorded from the Middle Lagoon and East Lagoon respectively in August 2008.  They are considered of local concern by Fellowes et al. due to the restricted breeding range in Hong Kong.  In Hong Kong, breeding usually occurs on reclaimed, infilled or temporarily cleared land (Carey et al., 2001). The species was first recorded breeding in the ash lagoons by the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) conducted by the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society (HKBWS). Chicks or newly fledged young were also recorded in Additional WEF EIA Report (MWH, 2003).  However, no breeding evidence was recorded during the recent surveys.  

7.4.3.35 A single individual of Wood Sandpiper was found in the Middle Lagoon in April, May and July 2008.  The species is a common to abundant passage migrant and winter visitor in Hong Kong (Carey et al, 2001).  It favors in low-lying areas of freshwater marsh, wet agriculture and fish ponds, with majority of records from Long Valley, Shuen Wan, Kam Tin, Ha Tsuen and the San Tin-Lok Ma Chau-Chau Tau area (ibid).  It is considered of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al (2002) due to its restricted local distribution.

Kingfishers

7.4.3.36 Three species of kingfishers recorded in the Assessment Area were of local conservation interest: Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), White-breasted Kingfisher (Halcyon symrnensis) and Black-capped Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata).  All of them are considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted breeding population in Hong Kong.

7.4.3.37 A record of single individual of Pied Kingfisher was reported from the tidal channel in May 2008 and the East Lagoon in August 2008.  The species are uncommon, localized residents in Hong Kong (Carey et al., 2001).  Nests were reported in tunnels excavated in banks near water from STF ES Report (M&E, 2006).  However, no breeding evidence was observed during the recent surveys.

7.4.3.38 A peak count of three individuals of White-breasted Kingfisher was recorded from the East and Middle Lagoons in August 2008.  White-breasted Kingfishers are locally common residents in autumn and winter (Carey et al., 2001).  Nest holes on the eroded slopes above Nim Wan Road recorded in ACTF Report was considered to be made by the species.  However, no breeding evidence was found during recent survey.

7.4.3.39 Records of single individual of Black-capped Kingfisher were reported from the watercourse in March 2008 and grassland/shrubland in June 2008.  Black-capped Kingfishers are common local winter visitors and passage migrant with occasional summer records (Carey et al., 2001).  There are no previous confirmed or suspected breeding records at Nim Wan.

Other birds

7.4.3.40 A peak count of 4 Greater Coucals (Centropus sinensis) was recorded from the East Lagoon, grassland/shrubland and secondary woodland habitats in April 2008.  Although they are listed as Category II protected animal species under PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law, Greater Coucals are common and widespread in Hong Kong.

7.4.3.41 A peak count of 23 Pacific Swifts (Apus pacificus) was recorded flying over the East Lagoon and 8 over grassland/shrubland habitat in June 2008.  Pacific Swift is considered of local concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted breeding site.  Breeding probably occurs on only two offshore islands in southeastern waters.  There are no previous confirmed and suspected breeding records at Nim Wan.

7.4.3.42 One observation was made of a Blue-tailed Bee-eater (Merops philippinus) from grassland/shrubland habitat located to the north of the Middle Lagoon in May 2008.  Blue-tailed Bee-eater is a scarce passage migrant in Hong Kong, and recorded feeding over fish ponds, gei wai and agricultural land, or resting on perches (Carey et al., 2001).

7.4.3.43 A single individual of Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike (Coracina melaschistos) were recorded flying over grassland/shrubland in May 2008.  The species is a scarce winter visitor and passage migrant in Hong Kong, but is widely distributed throughout Hong Kong as it is often found in areas where trees are present (Carey et al., 2001).

7.4.3.44 White-shouldered Starlings (Sturnus sinensis) are common passage migrant and scarce and localized breeding summer visitor and winter visitor (Carey et al., 2001).  They are considered of local concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted breeding population in Hong Kong.  There are less than 50 pairs breeding pairs in Hong Kong (Carey et al., 2001).  A peak count of 10 birds was recorded from the East Lagoon in the Assessment Area in June 2008.  No breeding records of the species were reported from the Assessment Area.

(ii) Mammals

7.4.3.45 Direct observations of one mammal species, Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) were made from the Assessment Area during recent surveys (Appendix 7.5).  Although the species is common and widespread in Hong Kong and is not considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002), it is protected under Cap. 170.

7.4.3.46 Two specimens of mammal dropping with high seed content were also recorded from the concrete seawall outside the East Lagoon in August 2008 (Appendix 7.6). They are probably from the herbivorous mammal.

(ii) Herpetofauna

7.4.3.47 Direct observations or evidence of six amphibian and five reptile species were reported from the Assessment Area during recent surveys (Appendix 7.6).  Most of the species are common and widely distributed in Hong Kong.  Only one reptile species recorded, Copperhead Racer (Elaphe radiate) is considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002).

7.4.3.48 Copperhead Racer was recorded at the seawall near Intertidal Survey Site 3 in June 2008.  The species occurs in rather dry habitats which could be flat and open, rocky or wooded.  Although the species is widely distributed in Hong Kong, it is considered of potential regional concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the drastic decline of the population in regional context.  It is also listed as endangered in China Red Data Book.

(ii) Dragonflies and Butterflies

7.4.3.49 Seven species of dragonfly and 2 species of damselfly were recorded within the Assessment Area (Appendix 7.6).  None of the species were of conservation concern.  Previously recorded uncommon dragonfly, Coastal Glider was not found during the recent surveys.

7.4.3.50 A total of 30 species of butterfly were recorded in different habitats for the Assessment Area (Appendix 7.6).  Most of them are common and widespread in Hong Kong except Common Jay (Graphium doson axion), Danaid Eggfly (Hypolimnas misippus) and Little Branded Swift (Pelopidas agna) are uncommon, and Glassy Bluebottle (Graphium cloanthus) is rare.  Two of them (Danaid Eggfly and Glassy Bluebottle) are of local concern (Table 7.7).

Table 7.7        Butterfly Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within the  Assessment Area

Common Name	Scientific Name	Status^1	Level of Concern^2	Location
Glassy Bluebottle	Graphium cloanthus	Rare	LC	Secondary woodland
Common Jay	Graphium doson axion	Uncommon	-	Shrubland
Danaid Eggfly	Hypolimnas misippus	Uncommon	LC	Secondary woodland, shrubland and watercourse (W1)
Little Branded Swift	Pelopidas agna	Uncommon	-	Shrubland

Notes:

1. Information taken from Lo et al. (2004).

2. Fellowes et al. (2002); LC=Local Concern

7.4.3.51 The Glassy Bluebottle occurs only in dense forests and has been recorded from Shing Mun, Tai Mo Shan, Tai Po Kau, Lam Tsuen, Ma On Shan and Pat Sin Leng (Lo et al., 2004).  It was found in the secondary woodland along Tsang Tsui Road during the survey.

7.4.3.52 The Common Jay is mostly found in forests and is widely distributed in most country parks (Lo et al., 2004).  A single individual was recorded in the shrubland habitat around the East Lagoon during the survey.

7.4.3.53 Males of the Danaid Eggfly usually inhabit highland area and females are rather rare, occurring near agricultural land and fish ponds in the New Territories (Lo et al., 2004).  Five individuals were found in the shrubland around the East Lagoon and one was in the secondary woodland along Tsang Tsui Road and near freshwater survey Sampling Point 1 during the survey.

7.4.3.54 The Little Branded Swift mostly occurs in open grasslands, shrublands and abandoned fields, and is widely distributed in most country parks ((Lo et al., 2004). A single individual was recorded in the shrubland habitat around the East Lagoon during the survey.

(v) Freshwater Fauna

7.4.3.55 The results of the freshwater fauna survey conducted at the watercourses and tidal channel were similar to those presented in the STF Baseline Report (Arup, 2008). Details of the freshwater fauna survey are presented in Appendix 7.6.

7.4.3.56 Freshwater community in the lower reaches of watercourse W1 were dominated by common freshwater species including Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Atyid shrimp (Cardina cantonensis).  A total of four fish species, two shrimp species and damselfly nymph were recorded in the recent survey.  All these species are common in Hong Kong.  The diversity of aquatic fauna in watercourse W1 was low.  No rare species or species of conservation interest was found.  Previously recorded rare fish, Squialiobarbus curriculus and Osteochilus vittatus were not found in the recent surveys.

7.4.3.57 The aquatic community in the watercourse (W1) had very low diversity.  The habitat was dominated by Common Mudskipper (Periophthalmus modestus) and only one crustacean and one bivalve species were recorded.  All species are common in Hong Kong.  The other two watercourses (W2 and W3) were void of freshwater fauna.

(vi) Intertidal Fauna

7.4.3.58 The result of intertidal fauna survey was similar to those obtained in the STF ES Report (M&E, 2006).  The habitat supported low species diversity with 30 intertidal species recorded.  The mid and low shores were dominated by sessile encrusting fauna such bivalves (Saccostrea cucullata), nerites (Nerita albicilla) and encrusting algae (Hildenbrandia rubra).  Coverage of Saccostrea cucullata varied from 5% to 80% in the lower shore.  Hildenbrandia rubra was more commonly found in wet season.  Barnacles (Balanus amphitrite) were more abundant on more exposed shore.  Other occasionally encountered species included planaxid snails Planaxis sulcatus, bivalves Septifer virgatus and encrusting algae Pseudulvella applanata. Mobile invertebrate such as sea slaters Ligia exotica and crabs were also recorded.

7.4.3.59 Occasional records of Nodilittorina radiata, Septifer virgatus, Balanus amphitrite and Nerita albicilla were found in the upper shore.  All species recorded are common local intertidal species with no special conservation importance.  Details of the intertidal fauna survey are shown in Appendix 7.6. Intertidal field surveys under this Project were conducted in accordance with the requirement stipulated in the EIA Study Brief covering representative period of time and areas. No further ecological survey for the intertidal communities is considered necessary.

7.5 Ecological Value

7.5.1.1 With reference to EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, the ecological importance of recorded habitats has been evaluated in Table 7.8 - Table 7.12 below.

Table 7.8        Ecological Value of Ash Lagoon in the Assessment Area

Criteria	East Lagoon	Middle Lagoon
Naturalness	The PFA dumping ground is man-made and subject to frequent disturbance/ modification from CLP’s PFA filling activities.  Pools formed after rainstorms were ephemeral in nature and only recorded from the northeastern part of the lagoon.  No pools were recorded from the lagoon in drier seasons during the surveys (i.e. March to May 2008).  The southern part of the lagoon was stockpiled with PFA.	The PFA dumping ground is man-made in nature and subject to relatively lower disturbance.  No PFA filling activities were observed during the surveys.  The amount of water coverage was found to be varied with the amount of rainfall.  The southern part of the lagoon were flooded throughout the survey period (i.e. March to August 2008)
Size	Small (9.19 ha)	Moderate (19.16 ha)
Diversity	Floral diversity: Low Faunal diversity: Low to moderate.	Floral diversity: Low Faunal diversity: Low to moderate.
Rarity	Six avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Grebe, Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater Coucal, Pied Kingfisher and White-shouldered Starling) recorded from the lagoons.	Seven avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Grebe, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Chinese Pond Heron, Little Ringed Plover, Wood Sandpiper and White-breated Kingfisher) recorded from the lagoons.
Re-creatability	High	High
Fragmentation	Not applicable	Not applicable
Ecological linkage	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat
Potential value	Low under the current management practices and frequent disturbance from PFA filling activities.	Moderate under the current management practices
Nursery ground	Potential breeding ground for a bird species of conservation interest (Little Grebe).	Potential breeding ground for a bird species of conservation interest (Little Grebe).
Age	The lagoons were constructed 15-20 years ago.	The lagoons were constructed 15-20 years ago.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Moderate avifaunal species richness.	Moderate to high avifaunal species richness.
Ecological value	Low to moderate	Moderate

Table 7.9        Ecological Value of Secondary Woodland and Grassland / Shrubland in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Secondary Woodland	Grassland/Shrubland
Naturalness	Habitat is dominated by native species, but is secondary in nature.	Habitat is largely natural but likely to suffer frequent disturbance by hill fires.
Size	Small (3.77 ha)	Large (27.77 ha)
Diversity	Botanic diversity is low to moderate, faunal diversity is low.	Botanic and faunal diversity is low to moderate.
Rarity	One avifauna and two butterflies of conservation interest (Great Coucal, Glassy Bluebottle and Danaid Eggfly) were found from this habitat.	Incense Tree and a few avifauna and butterfly species of conservation interest (such as Great Egret, Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater Coucal, White-breasted Kingfisher, Black-capped Kingfisher, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Common Jay, Danaid Eggfly and Little Branded Swift) were recorded from this habitat.
Re-creatability	Recreatability is moderate but the habitat requires several decades to mature.	Moderate to high
Fragmentation	Moderate	Low
Ecological linkage	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat
Potential value	Moderate	Low
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	Young in view of the structural complexity and community composition.	Relatively young in terms of succession pathway.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low to moderate.	Low to moderate.
Ecological value	Low to moderate	Low

Table 7.10      Ecological Value of Orchard and Plantation in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Orchard	Plantation
Naturalness	Planted man-made habitat on previous developed area.	Planted man-made habitat dominated by exotic species
Size	Small (0.56 ha)	Small (3.91 ha)
Diversity	Botanic and faunal diversity is very low.	Botanic and faunal diversity is low.
Rarity	No rare species found from this habitat.	Two avifaunal species of conservation interest (White-shouldered Starling and White-breasted Kingfisher) were found from this habitat.
Re-creatability	High	High
Fragmentation	Low	Low
Ecological linkage	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat
Potential value	Low	Low
Nursery ground	No significant records.	Previous record of White-breasted Kingfisher nest holes.
Age	Relatively young	Relatively young
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low.	Low.
Ecological value	Low	Low

Table7.11       Ecological Value of Watercourse and Developed Area/Disturbed   Area in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Watercourse	Developed Area/ Disturbed Area
Naturalness	W1 and W2: Habitat was largely natural in upstream sections, but downstream sections have been subject to extensive channel modification. W3: Man-made concrete channel	Man-made habitats.
Size	Small (2.36 ha) W1: 0.79 km W2: 1.34 km W3: 0.59 km	Large (32.0 ha)
Diversity	Botanic diversity of W3 and the lower river banks of W1 and W2 were low, while upper stream section of W1 and W2 were moderate Faunal diversity was low to moderate in W1 and low in W2 and W3.	Low
Rarity	W1: The lower stream and estuarine section were utilized by eight of wet dependent avifaunal species of conservation interest. (Grey Heron, Great Egret, Little Egret, Pacific Reef Egret, Cattle Egret, Chinese Pond Heron, White-breasted Kingfisher and Black-capped Kingfisher) W2: Plant species of conservation interest (i.e. Bamboo Orchid and Pitcher Plant) were recorded in the upstream section. W3: No significant record.	Two avifaunal and one mammal species of conservation interest (Cattle Egret, Little Ringed Plover and Japanese Pipistrelle) were recorded from this habitat.
Re-creatability	Moderate	High
Fragmentation	W1 and W3: Low. W2: Moderate to high.  A steep concrete lined cascade constructed between midstream and estuarine section.	Not applicable.
Ecological linkage	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat
Potential value	Low.	Low.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	Not applicable.	Not applicable.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low	Low.
Ecological value	W1 and W2: Low to moderate W3: Low	Low

Table 7.12      Ecological Value of Marine Habitats in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Seawall	Coastal Waters
Naturalness	Man-made habitats, but subsequently subject to low human modification/disturbance..	Natural but in close proximity to one of the busiest shipping lanes in Hong Kong.
Size	Small Total length: 2.3 km.  Area: 1.45 ha.	Large (29.40 ha)
Diversity	Low in floral, intertidal and associated terrestrial faunal diversity	Benthic diversity is moderate.
Rarity	Four avifaunal species of conservation interest (Great Egret, Little Egret, Chinese Pond Heron and White-breasted Kingfisher) and an uncommon reptile (Copperhead Racer) were recorded.	Two avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Egret and Pied Kingfisher) but no marine mammals were recorded from the Assessment Area.
Re-creatability	Easy to be re-created.	Not re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Low	Not applicable
Ecological linkage	Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby highly valuable habitat	Structurally linked with the preferred habitats of marine mammal located to the south-west of the habitat (e.g. Black Point, Sha Chu and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park), but low in functionally linkage. No sighting of marine mammal within the Assessment Area.
Potential value	Low.	Low
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	About 15 years since construction	Not applicable
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low	Moderate for benthic infauna.
Ecological value	Low	Low

7.5.1.2 Most of the identified habitats (grassland / shrubland, orchard, plantation, developed / disturbed area, seawall, coastal waters, and watercourse W3) in the Assessment Area are considered to have low ecological value.  The Middle Lagoon is ranked to have moderate value.  The secondary woodland, the East Lagoon and watercourse W1 and W2 are of low to moderate ecological value.

7.5.1.3 The Middle Lagoon supported moderate diversity and amount of avifauna of conservation interest such as Little Grebe, Chinese Pond Heron, Little Egret, Wood Sandpiper, and Little Ringed Plover.  It was the main foraging and breeding ground for the wetland dependent avifauna recorded from the Assessment Area.  The disturbance from human activities was comparatively low and no PFA dumping activities were observed during the surveys.  The southern portion of the Lagoon was found to be flooded with water and utilized by wetland dependant birds throughout the survey period.  The ash lagoon habitat in the Middle Lagoon is therefore considered of moderate ecological value.

7.5.1.4 The East Lagoon was reported to support a relatively low to moderate diversity of faunal diversity although some species of conservation interest (e.g. Little Grebe, Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Pied Kingfisher, Greater Coucal, and White-shouldered Starling) were also recorded from the area.  The past and present management practices accounts for the relatively low value of the lagoon habitat.  The utmost fluctuation of water levels and the regular PFA dumping and removal from the area limit the development of high-valued wetland habitat from the East Lagoon.  About half of the East Lagoon was covered by PFA and shrubland, hence, the effective wet area was at most 25% (below 3 ha) during wettest months.  It appeared to be completely dry during dryer season.  The East Lagoon is therefore considered of low to moderate ecological value due to its volatile nature.

7.5.1.5 Secondary woodland habitat within the Assessment Area was relatively young and supported only low floral and faunal diversity compared with other mature secondary woodland in Hong Kong.  The habitat is situated near Nim Wan Road subject a relatively high disturbance and is therefore considered to have low to moderate ecological value.

7.5.1.6 Watercourse W1 and W2 are considered to have low to moderate ecological value.  Although the downstream section of watercourse W1 has been extensively modified, it provided foraging habitat for a number of wetland dependent avifaunal species of conservation interest.  The upstream section of W2 is natural and 2 locally common plant species of conservation (i.e. Bamboo Orchid and Pitcher Plant) were recorded along the stream bank.

7.5.1.7 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recorded in the Assessment Areas are evaluated in Table 7.13 below.

Table 7.13      Species of Conservation Interest Recorded in the Assessment Area

Common Name	Scientific Name	Status*	Protection Status, Distribution, Rarity and Other Notes **
Flora
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	-	Locally common species. Protected under Cap. 586. IUCN Red List of Vulnerable Species.
Bamboo Orchid	Arundina graminifolia	-	Locally common species. Protected under Cap. 96 and Cap. 586.
Pitcher Plant	Nepenthes mirabillis	-	Locally common species. Protected under Cap. 96 and Cap. 586 and Appendix 2 of CTIES.
Fauna
Avifauna***
Little Grebe	Tachybaptus ruficollis	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding locally restricted.
Grey Heron	Ardea cinerea	PRC	Locally common species.
Great Egret	Casmerodius alba	PRC (RC)	Locally common species.
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	PRC (RC)	Locally common species.
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	(LC)	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common. Breeding locally restricted.
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding locally restricted.
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacclus	PRC (RC)	Locally common species. Large local population is declining.
Black-crowned Night Heron	Nycticorax nycticorax	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding locally restricted.
Osprey	Pandion haliaetus	RC	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common.
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common.
Common Buzzard	Buteo buteo	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common and widespread. Protected under Cap. 586.
Little Ringed Plover	Charadrius dubius	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding locally restricted.
Wood Sandpiper	Tringa glareola	LC	Locally common species. Locally restricted population.
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	-	Common and widespread. Listed as Category II protected animal species under PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law.
Pacific Swift	Apus pacificus	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding locally restricted.
Pied Kingfisher	Ceryle rudis	(LC)	Locally uncommon species. Breeding locally restricted.
White-breasted Kingfisher	Halcyon Symrnensis	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding restricted and declining locally.
Black-capped Kingfisher	Halcyon pileata	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding restricted and declining locally.
Blue-tailed Bee-eater	Merops philippinus	-	Locally scarce species
Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike	Coracina melaschistos	-	Locally scarce species. Local widespread distribution.
White-shouldered Starling	Sturnus sinensis	(LC)	Locally common species. Breeding restricted and declining locally.
Herpetofauna
Copperhead Racer	Elaphe radiate	PRC	Locally widespread. Regional population is drastically declining.
Terrestrial Invertebrates
Glassy Bluebottle	Graphium cloanthus	LC	Locally rare species. Local restricted distribution.
Common Jay	Graphium doson axion	-	Locally uncommon species. Local widespread distribution.
Danaid Eggfly	Hypolimnas misippus	LC	Locally uncommon species. Local restricted distribution.
Little Branded Swift	Pelopidas agna	-	Locally uncommon species. Local widespread distribution.
Mammals
Japanese Pipistrelle	Pipistrellus abramus	-	Locally common species. Protected under Cap. 170.

Note:

*           LC – Local Concern (Habitat loss/damage in Hong Kong would pose significant threat to local survival); PRC – Potential Regional Concern (Large, secure populations in Hong Kong are of regional significance); RC – Regional Concern (Habitat loss in Hong Kong would have implications for the survival of the species in South China); GC – Global Concern (Further habitat loss or damage in Hong Kong may have implications for the global survival of the species. Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence. Refer to Fellowes et al. (2002) for further explanation of status.

**         Information taken from various sources including King et al. (2001), Carey et al. (2001) and Fellowes et al. (2002).

***       All wild birds are protected under Cap 170

7.6 Identification of Environmental Impacts

7.6.1 Introduction

7.6.1.1 Potential ecological impacts arising from construction and operation phase activities are identified and described in the following sections.

7.6.2 Construction phase

Direct Impacts

(i) Impact to Vegetation and Habitats

7.6.2.1 The major direct impact resulted from construction of the proposed STF and associated access road would be permanent and temporary loss of habitats and vegetation within the Project Area.  Approximately 7.8 ha of habitats would be permanently affected under this Project.  Over 78% of the affected habitats are man-made habitats including approximately 6 ha of ash lagoon and other habitats comprising of developed area / disturbed area, plantation, and grassland / shrubland.  Apart from the ash lagoon habitat, which is considered of low-moderate value, all of the affected habitats are of low value.

7.6.2.2 Vegetation including about 460 trees comprised mainly of pioneer species (e.g. Macaranga tanarius) would be affected by permanent works in the grassland/shrubland habitat.  The habitat was relatively young comprised of locally common species and no species of conservation interest will be affected, the impact is therefore anticipated to be minor.

7.6.2.3 Under this Project, a 25m vehicular bridge with a width of 12.5m would be constructed over the estuary of watercourse W1 to link the future STF and the existing WENT Landfill site.  The abutment (permanent structure) would be constructed on land at the two sides of the channel.  Temporary supporting structures would probably be built where necessary in the channel to support the vehicular bridge during construction, the affected estuarine area would be restored after construction where necessary.  Placement of substrates of similar size and composition to those of original streambed would be considered to encourage colonization. 

7.6.2.4 Habitats within the works areas falling outside of the footprint of the proposed STF and access road would be subject to temporary disturbance during the construction phase.  Temporarily affected habitats including 0.40 ha ash lagoon, 0.07 ha developed area/disturbed area, 0.49 ha grassland/shrubland and 0.02 ha plantation. These affected habitats would be reinstated following completion of works.  Approximate areas of the permanently and temporarily affected habitats are summarized in Table 7.14 below.

Table 7.14      Direct Habitat Loss Resulting from the Proposed Works

Habitat Type	Area Permanently Affected (ha)	Area Temporarily Affected (ha)	Total Area Affected (ha) and % of Total
Ash Lagoon	6.04	0.40	6.44 (73.8%)
Developed Area/ Disturbed Area	0.10	0.07	0.17 (2.0%)
Plantation	0.02	0.02	0.04 (0.5%)
Watercourse (estuarine section of W1)	0	0*	0 (0%)
Grassland/ Shrubland	1.59	0.49	2.08 (23.8%)
Seawall	0	0	0 (0%)
Secondary Woodland	0	0	0 (0%)
Orchard	0	0	0 (0%)
Coastal Waters	0	0	0 (0%)
Total	7.75	0.98	8.73 (100%)

Note:

*         Area of estuarine section of W1 temporarily affected would be subject to the number and size of temporary supporting structure, which would be minimized as far as practicable (details refer to Section 7.8.2.2).

(ii) Impact to Fauna

7.6.2.5 The proposed works would cause a direct loss of wildlife habitats and indirect impact to those fauna inhabiting these affected habitats.  The construction of the STF would also affect the potential foraging and breeding ground of avifauna in the East Lagoon.  Since the East Lagoon was a PFA dumping ground operated by CLP, the area was subject to frequent disturbance from trucks and human activities.  The southern part of the lagoon was stockpiled with PFA.  Pools formed after rainstorms were ephemeral in nature and only recorded from the northeastern part of the lagoon and none was recorded in drier seasons during the surveys (i.e. March to May 2008).  Although the pools attract the opportunist Little Grebe, the volatile nature of the East Lagoon limited its potential as a main foraging and breeding ground for the species in the Assessment Area.  Moreover, alternative similar habitat is available in the adjacent Middle Lagoon providing relatively stable environment for the wildlife.  The impact to the associated fauna due to the loss of East Lagoon habitat of low to moderate ecological value is therefore considered to be minor.  

7.6.2.6 Fauna with lower mobility such as amphibian and the juveniles of avifauna would subject to higher level of risk, and could be killed or injured by the construction activities.  No direct impact is expected to wildlife with higher mobility such as adult avifauna and mammals.  Since no works would be conducted within the seawall and coastal waters, no direct impact to intertidal fauna and marine fauna are anticipated.

Indirect Impacts

(i) Disturbance Impact

7.6.2.7 Construction activities would bring about increased human activities and disturbance from noise of traffic and operating machinery, which in turn would impose indirect impacts to habitats and their associated fauna adjacent to works areas.  Potential effects to wildlife include avoidance of areas in the vicinity of the works areas, and decline in density in areas close to the source of disturbance.  

7.6.2.8 Wildlife utilizing the habitats adjacent to Nim Wan Road (i.e. plantation, developed area, grassland / shrubland, and secondary woodland) are currently subject to noise from vehicles entering/leaving the WENT Landfill.  Hence, increase in noise levels due to the construction of the STF would not significantly intensify the noise impact to wildlife in these areas.

7.6.2.9 The ash lagoons utilized by wildlife are currently screened from the Nim Wan Road and is about 200m from the road.  If unmitigated, it is expected the disturbance impact in construction phase would be increased considerably.  Ardeids, the major avifaunal species of conservation interest inhibiting various habitats within the Project Area, are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance (Arup, 2002), it is expected that these species would be more sensitive to human activities than construction noise.  Certain avifaunal species of conservation interest that inhibit in the ash lagoons would be of concern.  These birds occurring in the ash lagoons inhibit in a relatively quiet environment, the potential increase in noise level and human disturbance due to construction activities would induce greater influence.  The potential breeding populations of Little Grebe in the Middle Lagoon are of particular concern as they are most susceptible to the disturbance impact from human activities.  It is therefore suggested to set up a hoarding of 3m high along the work boundary of the Project Area and associated access road in order to shield construction activities and reduce disturbance to the avifauna that might be breed, roost or forage in the adjacent Middle Lagoon.  Should any additional possible access route identified adjacent to the Middle Lagoon, hoarding should be provided.

7.6.2.10 Academic research showed that birds can be tolerant to noise, as demonstrated by those living on airfield (Melville, 1980).  But occasional sudden noise such as piling could be more perturbing than more regular, even louder noise (MWH, 2003).  In view of that, a quieter piling technique, socketted H-piles, would be used to keep noise and vibration impacts to the minimum possible level.

(ii) Release of PFA Leachate

7.6.2.11 Piling would be adopted for foundation construction of the STF.  The piles would penetrate the base of the East Lagoon to the hard granite bedrock.  As discussed in Section 6.6.1.8 to Section 6.6.1.23 of the Water Quality Impact Assessment of this EIA Report, piling activities are unlikely to cause significant changes in geological structure of the lagoon site, and the leakage through the base of the East Lagoon would not be significant.  Moreover, the PFA leachate in the East Lagoon is unlikely to cause unacceptable impact on the aquatic environment from an ecotoxicological point of view.

(iii) Construction Site Runoff

7.6.2.12 Improper storage or dumping of construction materials and dust generated during the construction phase could disturb the habitats adjacent to works areas.  Dust covering leaves could lead to lethal/sublethal impacts due to reduction in photosynthetic rate, abrasion and blockage of stomata.  Aquatic communities could also be affected by accidental spills of oils and other chemicals during construction phase.  It could lead to lethal/sublethal effects on aquatic organisms.

7.6.2.13 The construction of vehicular bridge over the estuary of watercourse W1 and construction site runoff would release loads of contaminants and suspended solids. If uncontrolled, it would enter the nearby stream and coastal waters.  In addition, removal of vegetation within works areas due to site formation could result in increased sediment levels in site run-off.  It could impede aquatic, epifaunal and infaunal communities in the lagoons, watercourse, seawall, coastal waters and the associated wildlife.  Apart from the physical injury caused by larger particles, small particles could clog the respiratory and feeding systems of fish and invertebrates.  Elevated turbidity could reduce photosynthetic rate of aquatic plants, and affect feeding and other activities of species which are largely sight-dependant.

7.6.3 Operation phase

Direct Impacts

7.6.3.1 The operation phase activities would be confined to the proposed Project boundary.  No additional land would be taken up during operation.  Hence, no direct impacts are anticipated during the operation phase.

Indirect Impacts

(i) Disturbance Impact

7.6.3.2 Disturbance impact would be increased in general as a result of the operation of the STF as well as from increased traffic entering and leaving the STF.  This would lead to avoidance of the adjacent areas of the STF and associated access road, and reduction in wildlife density close to the source of disturbance.  

7.6.3.3 The noise generated from the trucks and workers entering and leaving the STF site would be the key sources of disturbance. As the access entrance will be provided at the western side of the Project Site, increased traffic and human activities along the eastern side of the Middle Lagoon is anticipated.  The wildlife associated with the Middle Lagoon would be potentially affected.  Given that the ardeids, which constitute the majority of avifauna population in the Middle Lagoon, are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance (Arup, 2002) and the breeding ground of Little Grebe susceptible to human movement is more than 200 m away from the access entrance.  The impact to fauna is expected to be low and can be further minimized through implementation of mitigation measures as discussed in the sections below. To screen out human activities and traffic from wildlife in the Middle Lagoon, either fencing with climbers or plantation should be provided along the STF site boundary and the two sides of access road.

7.6.3.4 Another potential source of operation noise is generated from incinerator and air boiler of the operating STF.  Since noise generation parts of these structures would be enclosed in building structure, noise impact on nearby wildlife would be considered insignificant.

(ii) Intake of Seawater/Discharge of Saline Water

7.6.3.5 The amount of seawater taken from the nearby marine waters for STF daily operation would be small comparing with the waterbody and intake of seawater is not anticipated to affect the hydrology within the Assessment Area.

7.6.3.6 The STF would adopt a “zero-discharge” scheme and no processed effluent would be discharged into Deep Bay during operation phase.  Only approximately 1000 m³/day of saline water from the proposed desalination plant would be discharged to the coastal waters through outlets.  No wastewater effluent, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals and other contaminants would be released during operation.  No adverse impact to Chinese White Dolphin and their preys as well as the oyster culture area in the Deep Bay area would be expected. 

7.6.3.7 Salinity of saline water discharged would be 50,000 to 58,333 mg/L.  Concentration of the discharged saline water is about 1.7 times of the feedwater. With a low discharge volume, the concentrated saline water would be immediately diluted by marine waters to the level as the feedwater.  Besides, the discharged saline water would comply with the standards for effluents discharged into the coastal waters of Deep Bay Water Control Zone. Therefore, ecological impact on the identified marine habitats and their associated fauna due to the intake of seawater/discharge of saline water would be insignificant. (Further details are discussed in the Section 6.6.2.10 to Section 6.6.2.11 of the Water Quality chapter)

(iii) Increased Marine Traffic

7.6.3.8 Dewatered sludge would be transported from Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works (STW) and Siu Ho Wan STW to the WENT Landfill through marine transport with only a few trips per day.  The navigation route, number of trip and vessels travelling between the STW and the STF would be similar to those adopted under the current operation for transporting the dewatered sludge to the WENT Landfill for disposal.  The same berth located at the seafront of the WENT Landfill would be used to receive the dewatered sludge.  The only difference is that, after the operation of STF, the dewatered sludge will be disposed of at STF instead of WENT Landfill.  No substantial increase in marine traffic is expected after the operation of the STF.  Moreover, the area offshore of the proposed STF is not a major habitat of Chinese White Dolphins (Jefferson, 2007) and hence significant adverse impact to this species due to STF marine traffic is not anticipated.

Emergency Case Scenario

7.6.3.9 In case of power failure, the operation in the STF will be suspended, the dewatered sludge from the other regional STWs would either be stored in the STF or the corresponding STWs or disposed to the WENT Landfill similar to the current procedure.  No substantial increases in indirect ecological impacts are expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation.

7.7 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

7.7.1.1 Potential ecological impacts to habitats arising from the proposed STF works have been evaluated according to Table 1 of Annex 8 of the EIAO-TM, and are summarized in Table 7.15 – Table 7.19 below.

Table 7.15      Overall Impact Evaluation: Ash Lagoons

Evaluation Criteria	East Lagoon	Middle Lagoon
Habitat quality	Low to moderate, a man-made PFA dumping ground subject to frequent disturbance/modification from PFA filling activities.  Habitat quality and its availability to wildlife fluctuated with the water coverage (i.e. rainfall) in the lagoon and level of human disturbance governed by the intensity of CLP’s PFA filling activities.  The habitat condition is highly volatile and the whole lagoon was found to be completely dry before rainy seasons.  The lagoon was completely dry in most part of the year and did not provide suitable habitat for the water dependent species of conservation in the area.  Lagoon habitat is therefore not considered to provide a stable habitat for wildlife use.	Moderate, a man-made PFA dumping ground subject to some degree of disturbance.  Habitat quality fluctuated with the water coverage (i.e. rainfall) in the lagoon and the level of human disturbance governed by the intensity of CLP’s PFA filling activities.  The lagoon habitat was relatively stable for wildlife use as the southern part of the lagoon was found to be flooded with water throughout the period of wet and dry season surveys.  No PFA filling activities were observed during the survey period.
Species	Six avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Grebe, Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater Coucal, Pied Kingfisher and White-shouldered Starling) recorded from the lagoons.  Most of these species were recorded during the end of wet season after the lagoon was partly flooded with water. A bird species of conservation interest (Little Grebe) probably breed in a water pool in the northern part of ash lagoon formed after a heavy rainstorm.	Seven avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Grebe, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Chinese Pond Heron, Little Ringed Plover, Wood Sandpiper and White-breasted Kingfisher) recorded from the lagoons.  A bird species of conservation interest (Little Grebe) probably breed in pool(s) formed within the ash lagoon during wet season.
Size/ Abundance	Moderate. Approximately 6.44 ha of ash lagoon would be affected.  Due to the unstable nature of the lagoon habitat, the affected area is not considered as important habitat for most of species of conservation interest.  Similar habitats are available in the Middle Lagoon.	No direct impact to the Middle Lagoon.
Duration	Construction Phase Habitat loss would be permanent for the area where the STF and access road are built. The direct impact is short term in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance, construction activities and increased road traffic would be temporary. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.
Reversibility	Construction Phase Habitat loss to permanent works area is irreversible. The direct impact is reversible in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance construction activities and increased road traffic would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be reversible.
Magnitude	Low to moderate. The proposed works will take up the northern part of the lagoon.  Due to the unstable nature of the lagoon habitat and frequent disturbance from PFA filling activities, the loss of habitat is not anticipated to significantly affect the associated species of conservation interest in the area.	Low. No direct impact is expected and indirect impact from human disturbance construction activities and increased road traffic is considered minor with implementation of proper mitigation measures.
Overall impact conclusion	Low to moderate	Low

Table 7.16      Overall Impact Evaluation: Secondary Woodland and  Grassland/Shrubland

Evaluation Criteria	Secondary Woodland	Grassland/Shrubland
Habitat quality	Low to moderate	Low
Species	One avifauna and two butterflies of conservation interest (Great Coucal, Glassy Bluebottle and Danaid Eggfly) recorded in this habitat. Woodland habitats are immature, but dominated by native species.	The habitats support low to moderate biodiversity. Incense Tree and a few avifauna and butterfly species of conservation interest (such as Great Egret, Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater Coucal, White-breasted Kingfisher, Black-capped Kingfisher, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Common Jay, Danaid Eggfly and Little Branded Swift) were recorded.
Size/ Abundance	The habitat would not be directly affected.	Small to moderate. Approximately 2.08 ha of habitat will be affected.
Duration	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance, construction activities and increased road traffic would be temporary. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance and increased road traffic would be permanent.	Construction Phase Habitat loss would be permanent for the area where the STF and access road are built. The direct impact is short term in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.
Reversibility	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance construction activities and increased road traffic would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.	Construction Phase Habitat loss to permanent works area is irreversible. The direct impact is reversible in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low. The magnitude of the impact is insignificant as no direct impact is anticipated.	Small. The size of habitat loss is small comparing with the nearby similar habitats. The disturbance to wildlife in the habitats is not expected to increase substantially.
Overall impact conclusion	Low	Low

Table 7.17      Overall Impact Evaluation: Orchard and Plantation

Evaluation Criteria	Orchard	Plantation
Habitat quality	Low	Low
Species	The habitats support low biodiversity and no rare species recorded	The habitats are dominated by exotic plants of low conservation value and two avifaunal species of conservation interest (White-shouldered Starling and White-breasted Kingfisher) were recorded.
Size/ Abundance	The habitat would not be directly affected.	Small. Approximately 0.04 ha of habitat will be affected.
Duration	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from increased construction activities and road traffic would be temporary. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance and increased road traffic would be permanent but comparatively minor given the distance from works area.	Construction Phase Habitat loss would be permanent for the area where the access road is built. The direct impact is short term in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.
Reversibility	Construction Phase Indirect impact resulting from construction activities would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.	Construction Phase Habitat loss to permanent works area is irreversible. The direct impact is reversible in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Small, given the large distance of the habitat from works area and no direct impact involved.	Small.  The size of habitat loss is small in comparison with the surrounding similar habitats. The habitat is man-made and young which can be recreated readily.
Overall impact conclusion	Negligible	Low

Table 7.18      Overall Impact Evaluation: Watercourse and Developed Area/Disturbed Area

Evaluation Criteria	Watercourse	Developed Area/Disturbed Area
Habitat quality	Watercourse W1 and W2 – Low to moderate Watercourses W3 – Low	Low
Species	Streams provide foraging habitat for eight avifaunal species of conservation interest (Grey Heron, Great Egret, Little Egret, Pacific Reef Egret, Cattle Egret, Chinese Pond Heron, White-breasted Kingfisher and Black-capped Kingfisher).	The habitats support low biodiversity and two avifaunal and one mammal species of conservation interest (Cattle Egret, Little Ringed Plover and Japanese Pipistrelle) were recorded.
Size/ Abundance	Depending on construction method, the estuary of watercourse W1 would probably be temporarily affected. The area affected would be very small and localized.	Small to moderate.  Approximately 0.17 ha of habitat will be affected.
Duration	Construction Phase A very small area of watercourse W1 might be temporary affected due to the construction of access road. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife such as avifauna due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent but impact to aquatic fauna is expected to be minor.	Construction Phase Habitat loss would be permanent for the area where the access road is built. The direct impact is short term in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.
Reversibility	Construction Phase Impact to watercourse is reversible and the affected section will be restored where necessary. The potential indirect impacts due to increased sedimentation would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human activities and road traffic would be irreversible.	Construction Phase Habitat loss to permanent works area for access road is irreversible. The direct impact is reversible in temporary works area. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Small.  The potential direct impact to watercourse, if any, is localized and indirect impact can be controlled through implementation of good site practices.	Small.  The size of habitat loss is small in comparison with the surrounding similar habitats.
Overall impact conclusion	Low	Low

Table 7.19         Overall Impact Evaluation: Intertidal and Marine Habitats

Evaluation Criteria	Seawall	Coastal Waters
Habitat quality	Low	Low
Species	The habitats support low biodiversity but four avifaunal species of conservation interest (Great Egret, Little Egret, Chinese Pond Heron and White-breasted Kingfisher) and an uncommon reptile (Copperhead Racer) were recorded.	The habitats support low biodiversity and only two avifaunal species of conservation interest (Little Egret and Pied Kingfisher) but no marine mammals were recorded from the Assessment Area.
Size/ Abundance	The habitat would not be directly affected.	The habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from increased construction activities and road traffic would be temporary. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be permanent.	Construction Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from increased construction activities would be temporary. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife resulting from human disturbance and increased marine traffic would be permanent.
Reversibility	Construction Phase Indirect impact resulting from construction activities would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact to wildlife due to increased human disturbance and road traffic would be reversible.	Construction Phase Indirect impact resulting from construction activities would be reversible. Operation Phase Indirect impact due to increased human disturbance and marine traffic would be reversible.
Magnitude	Small.  No direct impact is expected and indirect impact can be controlled through implementation of good site practices.	No direct impact is expected and the area is currently subject to disturbance from heavy traffic in the nearby area.
Overall impact conclusion	Low	Low

7.7.1.2 Major impacts to species of conservation importance recorded within the Assessment Area have been described.  A summary of potential construction and operation phase impacts to all species of conservation importance recorded within the Assessment Area is presented in Table 7.20 below.

Table 7.20    Overall Impacts to Species of Conservation Interest

Species of Conservation Interest		Construction Phase Impacts		Operation Phase Impacts
Common Name	Scientific Name	Description	Evaluation	Description	Evaluation
Flora
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	Individual of these species falls outside works areas, no impacts predicted.	No impact	No impact.	No impacts.
Bamboo Orchid	Arundina graminifolia
Pitcher Plant	Nepenthes mirabillis
Fauna
Avifauna
Little Grebe	Tachybaptus ruficollis	Two juveniles were recorded from the East Lagoon suggested that the lagoon was a potential breeding sites of the species.  However, being a man-made PFA dumping ground subject to frequent disturbance/ modification from PFA filling activities, the habitat in the East Lagoon is considered to have low to moderate value only.  Habitat quality and its availability to wildlife fluctuated with the water coverage (i.e. rainfall) in the lagoon and level of human disturbance governed by the intensity of CLP’s PFA filling activities.  The habitat condition is highly volatile and the whole lagoon was found to be completely dry before rainy seasons.  The lagoon was completely dry in most part of the year and did not provide suitable habitat for the Little Grebe.  Due to the unstable nature of the lagoon habitat and frequent disturbance from PFA filling activities, the loss of habitat is not anticipated to significantly affect the associated species of conservation interest in the area.  Similar habitat is also available in the adjacent Middle Lagoon and area near Pak Nai.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased due to the operation of the STF.  The most substantial source of disturbance would be STF plant operation, road traffic and human activities.  With the implementation of effective mitigation measures, it disturbance impact is considered minor. The Middle Lagoon with relatively stable habitat is anticipated to provide alternative breeding ground for the Little Grebe in the area.	Low
Grey Heron	Ardea cinerea	Two birds were recorded from watercourse and the Middle Lagoon suggested that these watercourse and lagoon were used as roosting and foraging sites by the species. There will be no direct loss of their habitats due to the proposed works. Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if uncontrolled, might affect the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats.  The species is a common winter visitor, which occurs in intertidal and fish pond or gei wai areas, is common in Hong Kong (Carey et al,, 2001). There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further away from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However,  there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Great Egret	Casmerodius alba	A peak count of 6 birds was recorded from watercourse and seawall habitats and other records were made from the Middle Lagoon, grassland/ shrubland and watercourse suggested that the lagoon, grassland/ shrubland, watercourse and seawall were used as roosting and foraging sites by the species. The proposed works for the STF and access road at grassland/shrubland habitat might affect their roosting ground.  Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if uncontrolled, might affect the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats.  The species is common and widely distributed in Hong Kong, and occurs in shallow intertidal, fish pond and marshes (Carey et al,, 2001).The grassland/shrubland habitat lost is not major habitat for the species.  There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in Tsang Tsui and Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	A peak count of 27 birds was recorded from ash lagoons and watercourse W1 suggested that the lagoons and watercourse were used as roosting and foraging sites by the species.  Most of the records were made from Middle Lagoon. The proposed works for the STF and access road might affect their habitats. Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if uncontrolled, might affect the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats.  However, the species, which occurs in a wide range of wetland habitat, is abundant and widely distributed in Hong Kong (Carey et al,, 2001). Due to the unstable nature of the lagoon habitat and frequent disturbance from PFA filling activities, the lagoon did not provide suitable habitat for the species. There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in the Middle Lagoon and Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor. .	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	Only one bird was recorded from watercourse W1. Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats. Although the species is uncommon in Hong Kong, it is widely distributed and favors rocky habitat (Carey et al,, 2001). Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance in Tsang Tsui. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in Tsang Tsui area. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are proved to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	Three birds were recorded from watercourse W1 and developed area/disturbed area suggested that the watercourse was used as roosting and foraging sites by the species Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats.  The species is found feeding a wide range of habitats, including paddy field, fish pond, refuse landfill, golf courses and water sprinkler, and is widely distributed in Hong Kong (Carey et al,, 2001).  Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats readily available nearby. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats readily available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are proved to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacclus	A peak count of 5 birds was recorded from ash lagoons and watercourse W1 and other records were made from the seawall suggested that the lagoons, watercourse and seawall were used as roosting and foraging sites by the species. The proposed works for the STF and access road would directly affect their roosting and foraging ground. Construction noise, road traffic, human activities and site runoff to watercourse, if unmitigated, might affect the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats.  However, the species is common and widely distributed in Hong Kong and occurs in any low lying damp area. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance such as the Middle Lagoon, streams and fish ponds in Pak Nai. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Black-crowned Night Heron	Nycticorax nycticorax	A single bird was recorded from grassland/shrubland habitat and East Lagoon. The species is common and widely distributed in Hong Kong.  Although the proposed works for the STF and access road would directly and indirectly affect their potential habitat, given the unstable nature of the lagoon habitat and frequent disturbance from PFA filling activities, the lagoon is not considered as a key habitat for the species.  Moreover, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in Middle Lagoon and the fish ponds in Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Besides, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be the increased road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Moreover, ardeids are known to be tolerant to noise and disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Osprey	Pandion haliaetus	A single bird was recorded flying over the East Lagoon. The species is common winter visitor and widely distributed in Hong Kong and occurs in wide range of habitats, including sheltered coastal areas, bays, gei wai, fishponds and reservoirs (Carey et al,, 2001).  Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	A peak count of 3 birds was recorded flying over the Middle Lagoon, plantation and developed area/disturbed area.  Previous record in WEF EIA Report of nesting in western end of West Lagoon outside the Assessment Area. The species is common in Hong Kong with wide variety of habitats. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor	Very low
Common Buzzard	Buteo Buteo	A single individual was recorded flying over grassland/shrubland habitat in Assessment Area. The species is a common winter visitor and scare passage migrant in Hong Kong with wide variety of habitats. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Little Ringed Plover	Charadrius dubius	A peak count of 30 birds and a single individual were recorded from Middle and East Lagoons respectively suggested that the Middle Lagoon was utilized as roosting and foraging sites by the species.    The proposed works for the STF and access road in East Lagoon is therefore not anticipated to cause direct loss of their roosting and foraging ground. Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their roosting and foraging habitats in the Middle Lagoon.  The species is a common winter visitor and passage migrant in Hong Kong with wide variety of habitats such as wet agriculture, reclaimed land, freshwater marsh and fish pond (Carey et al,, 2001).  There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Wood Sandpiper	Tringa glareola	Records of a single bird were made from the Middle Lagoon on three survey dates. No direct habitat loss due to the proposed works is anticipated. . Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their habitats The species is common passage migrant and winter visitor and widespread in Hong Kong, and occurs in a wide range of habitats including freshwater marsh, wet agriculture and fish ponds (Carey et al, 2001). There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	A peak count of 4 birds was recorded from the East Lagoon, grassland/shrubland and secondary woodland habitat suggested that these habitats were potentially utilized by the species as roosting sites. The proposed works for the STF and access road would directly affect of their habitat. Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their habitats.  The species is common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements. There are similarly suitable habitats readily available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Pacific Swift	Apus pacificus	A total of 23 birds were recorded at flight over the East Lagoon and 8 from grassland/shrubland habitat respectively. The species is common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Pied Kingfisher	Ceryle rudis	Records of single individual were made from watercourse and East Lagoon on two survey dates suggested that the watercourse and the East Lagoon were used as roosting and foraging sites by the species. The proposed works for the STF and access road would directly affect of their habitat. Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly reduce the quality of their habitats.  The species is uncommon local resident that feeds in fresh, brackish and salt water and is found at fish ponds, gei wai, reservoirs, sheltered bays (Carey et al,, 2001).  There are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species in the coastal water, Middle Lagoon and fish ponds in Pak Nai. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low
White-breasted Kingfisher	Halcyon Symrnensis	A peak count of 3 birds was recorded from ash lagoons and other records were made from grassland/shrubland, plantation, watercourse and seawall in Assessment Area suggested that the species utilizing a wide range of habitats. The proposed works for the STF and access road would directly affect of their habitat. Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly affect the quality of their habitats.  The species is common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled.  Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, other suitable habitats are available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low
Black-capped Kingfisher	Halcyon pileata	Single individual was recorded from tidal channel and grassland/shrubland.  The proposed works for the STF and access road would directly affect of their habitat. Construction noise, road traffic and human activities, if unmitigated, might indirectly affect the quality of their habitats The species is common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. With suitable and appropriate mitigation measures, site runoff to watercourse could be controlled.  Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, other suitable habitats are available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Blue-tailed Bee-eater	Merops philippinus	A single record was made from grassland/shrubland. Although the species is a scarce passage migrant in Hong Kong, it occurs in wide range of habitat such as fish ponds, gei wai and agricultural land (Carey et al,, 2001).  It is therefore not anticipated the proposed works would cause significant impact on the species.  Moreover, there are other suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use similar suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike	Coracina melaschistos	A single bird was recorded flying over grassland/shrubland habitat. Although the species is a scarce winter visitor and passage migrant in Hong Kong, it is widespread with no specialized habitat requirements  (Carey et al,, 2001).  It is therefore not anticipated the proposed works would cause significant impact on the species.  Moreover, there are other suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are other suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low
White-shouldered Starling	Sturnus sinensis	A peak count of 13 birds was recorded from the East Lagoon.  The species is a common passage migrant and scare winter visitor, it is widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements (Carey et al,, 2001).  It is therefore not anticipated the proposed works would cause significant impact on the species.  Moreover, there are other suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be noise due to STF plant operation, road traffic and human activities. However, there are other suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Birds potentially disturbed due to operation phase activities would therefore be likely to use other suitable habitats available further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Low
Herpetofauna
Copperhead Racer	Elaphe radiate	An individual was recorded from the seawall. The species is widespread throughout Hong Kong.  They can be commonly found in open, dry, hilly, rocky habitat of mixed grassland and shrubland.  It is therefore anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species and similarly suitable habitats are also available nearby for the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be road traffic and human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Dragonfly and Butterfly
Glassy Bluebottle	Graphium cloanthus	Only single individual was recorded from secondary woodland habitat. The Glassy Bluebottle is locally rare and occurs only in dense forests.  There is no habitat loss for the woodland habitat during construction.  It is therefore anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Common Jay	Graphium doson axion	Only a single individual was recorded from grassland/shrubland. The Common Jay is locally uncommon and mostly found in forests and it is widely distributed in most country parks.  Although the construction of STF and access road might affect the potential habitat of the species, it is anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species as similarly suitable habitats are available nearby for the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Danaid Eggfly	Hypolimnas misippus	Seven individuals were found in grassland/ shrubland and secondary woodland. Males of the Danaid Eggfly usually inhabit highland area and females are rather rare, occurring near agricultural land and fish ponds in the New Territories.  Although the construction of STF and access road might affect the potential habitat of the species, it is anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species as similarly suitable habitats are available nearby for the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Little Branded Swift	Pelopidas agna	Only a single individual was recorded from grassland/shrubland. The locally uncommon Little Branded Swift mostly occurs in open grasslands, shrublands and abandoned fields, and is widely distributed in most country parks.  Although the construction of STF and access road might affect the potential habitat of the species, it is anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species as similarly suitable habitats are available nearby for the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The key source of disturbance would be human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low
Mammals
Japanese Pipistrelle	Pipistrellus abramus	Only a single individual was recorded (at flight) from developed area/disturbed area. The species are common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialized habitat requirements. Although the construction of STF and access road might affect the potential habitat of the species, it is anticipated that the proposed works would not cause significant impact on the species as similarly suitable habitats are available nearby for the species.	Low	General disturbance levels would be increased as a result of the operation of the STF. The most substantial source of disturbance would be human activities. However, there are similarly suitable habitats available nearby for the species. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very low

7.8 Mitigation Measures

7.8.1 Introduction

7.8.1.1 According to EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, mitigation measures are discussed in this section to avoid, minimize and compensate for identified ecological impacts.

7.8.2 Avoidance and Minimization

7.8.2.1 The construction design, methods, sequences and operation of the STF have been considered to avoid impact to the natural habitats and species of conservation interest where possible.  The proposed STF Project Area is situated largely within the northern part of the East Lagoon surrounded by vegetation.  Development is constrained by limited options of alternative extension area and any construction would inevitably result in impacts to the lagoon habitat.  Nevertheless, some mitigation measures have been adopted to avoid impacts to the surrounding habitats as far as possible.

Measures to Avoid Mortality of Little Grebe

7.8.2.2 Site formation for the STF is scheduled to commence in dry season to avoid breeding season of Little Grebe as far as practicable.  The site formation work of the proposed Project would affect about 6 ha of East Lagoon.  Breeding activities of Little Grebe were observed within the East Lagoon.  If unmitigated, juvenile and chicks of Little Grebe with lower mobility could be killed due to construction activities.  As a precautionary measure, the whole Project Area would be thoroughly inspected twice at the earliest two weeks before the proposed start date of construction activities to confirm no breeding activities of Little Grebe (including their eggs, chicks and juveniles) would be affected by the construction activities.  The inspection should be carried out by experienced ecologist(s) with over seven year experience in the relevant field.  Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) should be informed in writing about the suitability of conducting construction work in the Project Area before the commencement of any site activities.

7.8.2.3 In case breeding activities (e.g. nests, chicks or juveniles) of Little Grebe are found during site inspection, the programme and method of construction would be carefully reviewed to investigate the practicable measures to minimise impact to the breeding birds through:

l careful phasing of construction works, reschedule to commence the works in the breeding area in a later stage

l minimisation of disturbance impact to the breeding birds due to construction activities.  As Little Grebe is very sensitive to human movement, it is important to screen off construction works and human activities by erection of hoarding around the breeding ground.  Sufficient buffer area should be provided between the breeding bird and hoarding to allow for their feeding, foraging and roosting activities.  The fenced-off area would be inspected weekly to confirm the effectiveness of the mitigation measure and allow adaptive measures to be made promptly.

l restriction of access to the breeding site.  No personnel should encroach the breeding area without the written permission from the Resident Engineer. 

The above mentioned mitigation measures should be stipulated in contract documents to ensure the Contractors are well aware of the requirement.   

Measures to Minimise Disturbance Impact to Wildlife

7.8.2.4 The construction of STF would increase human activities in the works area.  As birds are sensitive to human activities, they would avoid and reduce use of the nearby habitat.  In order to minimize the disturbance to wildlife in the Middle Lagoon, alternative locations for the access entrance of the project site has been explored. If the access entrance is relocated at the southern or northern side of the Project Site, there would be insufficient space for trucks delivering sludge to safely turn inside the STF. Besides, the landscape and visual impact would be aggravated due to reduction of total landscape area and the loss of part of trees along the long side of the Project Site.  A suitable location for the access entry shall also allow traffic from both the existing Nim Wan Road and the future Nim Wan Road. If the access entrance is relocated at the eastern side of the Project Site, trucks would need to travel along a relatively steep road after exiting the future Nim Wan Road (according to the preliminary design of the future Nim Wan Road) to get to the eastern access entrance. The gradient of the road would also vary with the detailed design of the future Nim Wan Road, which is not available at this moment. Considering all the engineering constraints and potential overall impacts, the western side is considered to be the preferred location for the access entry.

7.8.2.5 To reduce the potential impact to the wildlife in the Middle Lagoon, the following mitigation measures are proposed during the construction and operation phases:-

Construction Phase

7.8.2.6 Since the proposed entrance is adjacent to the eastern boundary of the Middle Lagoon, hoarding of 3 m high would be set up along the boundary of the works areas and associated site access to shield the fauna in the Middle Lagoon and other natural habitats from the disturbance impact of human activities during construction phase.

Operation Phase

7.8.2.7 It is proposed to erect a barrier with climbing planting along the eastern side of the Middle Lagoon, adjacent to the access entry of the STF.  The barrier will provide screening effect so that the access entry cannot be seen directly from the Middle Lagoon, and vice versa.  The barrier can also limit the access to/from the Middle Lagoon. Potential disturbance to the wildlife due to intrusion of the STF staff to the Middle Lagoon, and accidental injury of wildlife by trucks travelling along the access road can be minimized. Locations of fencing and plantation are given in Figure 9.20.

7.8.2.8 The works boundaries would not extend beyond the proposed Project Area.  All work crews, equipment and human activities would be confined within the designated works area only.  No personnel should encroach or wilfully disturb any wild animals and their habitats.  Traffic and human access from the western side of the Project Area would be avoided.

7.8.2.9 Piling would be the major source of construction noise.  Previous studies suggested birds are sensitive to occasional noise.  Since many avifaunal species of conservation interest were observed utilising nearby habitat, piling could lead to avoidance and reduced density of avifauna in areas in the vicinity of the works areas.  To reduce noise disturbance to habitats and wildlife adjacent to the work area, noise mitigation measures including the use of quieter piling machinery and construction plants would be implemented to lower the noise level due to construction works.

Measures to Minimise Impact to Habitats

7.8.2.10 Where practicable, all proposed works would be conducted in existing built up area to minimize impact to natural habitats.  All temporarily affected natural habitats, including streambed, should be reinstated after the completion of works.

7.8.2.11 To minimize loss to aquatic habitats, the abutment (permanent structure) for the vehicular bridge would avoid streambed.  The number and size of the temporary supporting structures to be installed during construction would be minimized as far as practicable.  For affected natural stream, placement of substrates of similar size and composition to those of original streambed would be considered to encourage colonization.

7.8.2.12 In addition, measures to control potential water quality impacts to the nearby watercourse (e.g. W1) and marine environment during construction phase would be implemented as mentioned in S.6.7.1 of the Water Quality chapter.  To minimize the potential water quality impacts from the construction works located at or near any river channels, natural streams or seafront, the practices outlined in ETWB TC (Works) No. 5/2005 “Protection of natural streams/rivers from adverse impacts arising from construction works” would be adopted where applicable. 

7.8.2.13 Standard good site practice measures should be implemented during the construction phase, which included the followings:-

l Placement of equipment or stockpile in designated works areas and access routes selected on existing disturbed land to minimize disturbance to natural or moderate ecological valued habitat;

l Construction activities should be restricted to works areas that would be clearly demarcated;

l The works areas would be reinstated immediately after completion of the works;

l Waste skips should be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes. The wastes should be disposed of timely and properly off-site;

l Drainage arrangements should include sediment traps to collect and control construction run-off;

l Open burning on works sites is illegal, and should be strictly prohibited;

l Temporary fire fighting equipment in the works areas should be provided to prevent any open fire;

l Erect fences along the boundary of the works areas before the commencement of works to prevent tipping, vehicle movements and encroachment of personnel into adjacent areas;

l Only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site and plant should be serviced regularly during the construction programme;

l Machines and plant which may be in intermittent use should be shut down between work periods or should be throttled down to a minimum;

l Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction, should, where possible, be orientated so that the noise is directed away from the Middle Lagoon;

l Silencers or mufflers on construction equipment should be utilized and should be properly maintained during the construction period;

l Mobile plant (such as generator) should be sited as far away from the Middle Lagoon as possible; and

l Material stockpiles and other structures should be effectively utilized, where practicable, to screen noise from on-site construction activities.

7.8.3 Enhancement Measures

Measures to Mitigate the Loss of Vegetation

7.8.3.1 No plant species of conservation interest would be affected by this Project.  Vegetation located within the work areas would be preserved as far as practicable.  To give way to the construction of STF and associated access road, approximately 1.6 ha of grassland/shrubland habitat of low ecological value would be unavoidably affected.  To mitigate the loss of the vegetation and habitats, tree planting would be provided in the Project Area.  Species chosen for planting would be similar to the species identified in the survey and be native to Hong Kong or the Southern China.  Tree species which can provide food for local wildlife are recommended.

Measures to Create Additional Habitat for Little Grebe

7.8.3.2 The East Lagoon of low to moderate ecological value would be directly affected under the Project.  Although the East Lagoon is not considered as the main foraging / breeding habitat for avifauna in the Assessment Area and similar alternative habitat is available in the Middle Lagoon, practical options were explored during the design stage to identify a suitable area to accommodate an on-site enhancement measure for the Little Grebe population.

7.8.3.3 An additional pond habitat for Little Grebe would be created in less disturbed habitat located at the northeastern part of the proposed STF site.  It is envisaged to provide an alternative habitat for the Little Grebe in addition to the Middle Lagoon.  The created habitat would be provided in the form of shallow pond(s) incorporating suitable habitat characteristics for Little Grebe.  The water level of the created pond would be kept between 1.5m to 2m.  Emergent vegetation would be planted and fish population would be controlled to allow development of aquatic invertebrate populations as prey of Little Grebe.  To screen the breeding population from disturbance due to nearby landfill traffic, planting of native vegetation would be provided on the boundary of pond(s) as appropriate.  Prior to construction of the pond(s), detailed Habitat Creation and Management Plan (HCMP) of the created habitat prepared by experienced ecologist(s) with over seven year experience in relevant field would be circulated to relevant departments including AFCD.  The indicative location of the additional pond(s) is shown in Figure 9.20.

7.9 Cumulative Impacts

7.9.1.1 The construction works of STF is proposed to be commenced in March 2010, and be completed in 2012.  Based on the best available information, the proposed WENT Landfill Extension at Nim Wan is planned to commence operation in 2016. The proposed extension works of WENT Landfill will be divided into 6 phases and the southern portion of the Middle Lagoon will be utilized in Phase 6, and the construction works of Phase 6 will commence in 2022.  In order to mitigate the associated impacts due to future loss of the habitat in the Middle Lagoon, habitat suitable for Little Grebe and the potentially affected fauna will be reprovided prior to the commencement of any construction activities in the Middle Lagoon as part of the WENT Landfill Extension project.  Details of the design and management of the reprovided habitat will be examined and presented in the WENT Landfill Extension EIA.

7.10 Evaluation of Residual Impacts

7.10.1.1 The total area of permanent habitat loss due to the proposed STF is approximately 7.8 ha including approximately 6.0 ha lagoon, 1.6 ha grassland / shrubland, 0.1 ha developed / disturbed area and 0.02 ha plantation.

7.10.1.2 There would be a permanent loss of approximately 6.0 ha ash lagoon habitat of low to moderate value in the East Lagoon under this Project due to the construction of the STF and the associated access road.  Since the affected lagoon habitat is not considered as the main foraging and breeding ground for the associated fauna and alternative similar habitat is also available at the adjacent Middle Lagoon, the impact is expected to be low to moderate.  With the provision of created pond(s) in a less disturbed area within the STF site to provide additional area for Little Grebe and implementation of effective mitigation measures, it is expected that the residual impact would be well controlled to an acceptable level.

7.10.1.3 The Project would also permanently affect approximately 1.6 ha grassland / shrubland habitat of low ecological value.  No residual impact is anticipated as the loss in vegetation would be fully compensated through extensive planting of local species within the STF site and the surrounding areas where possible. 

7.10.1.4 The residual loss of the low value man-made habitats including developed area/disturbed area and plantation affecting only approximately 0.12 ha in total is considered acceptable.  

7.10.1.5 The remaining residual impacts resulting from the proposed Project would be largely limited to the minor increases in disturbance to habitats adjacent to STF site.  Disturbance impacts are considered relatively minor in scale due to the vey low to moderate ecological value of affected habitats, the presence of nearby similar habitats, and existing sources of disturbance close to the STF site.

7.11 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

7.11.1.1 The effective implementation of all mitigation measures described in Section 7.8 should be subject to regular audit.  The detail of environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) requirement are discussed in the EM&A Manual.

7.12 Conclusion

7.12.1.1 A literature review supplemented by comprehensive ecological surveys covering dry and seasons was undertaken to establish the ecological profile of the Assessment Area.  Nine habitat types were identified within the Assessment Area including ash lagoons, secondary woodland, grassland/shrubland, plantation, watercourse, developed area/disturbed area, seawall, orchard and coastal waters.

7.12.1.2 Three species of flora and 27 fauna of conservation interest (21 avifauna, 1 reptile, 4 butterflies and 1 mammal) were recorded from the Assessment Area.

7.12.1.3 Most of the identified habitats in the Assessment Area have low ecological value, except the Middle Lagoon which was ranked as moderate, and the East Lagoon, secondary woodland, the watercourse W1 and W2 were ranked low to moderate.

7.12.1.4 A total of approximately 7.8 ha of habitats would be permanently lost under this Project.  Over 79% of the affected habitats are man-made habitats including approximately 6 ha ash lagoon, 0.1 ha developed area/disturbed area, 0.02 ha plantation and 1.6 ha grassland/shrubland.  A very small area of an estuary would probably be affected during the construction of vehicular bridge temporarily. As the proposed Project is a land based project, no marine ecological habitats would be affected.

7.12.1.5 The construction of the STF would affect the potential breeding ground of Little Grebe in the East Lagoon of low to moderate ecological value.  The impact is anticipated to be minor as the East Lagoon is not the main foraging and breeding ground for the species and alternative similar habitat for Little Grebe is available in the adjacent Middle Lagoon.

7.12.1.6 Potential indirect construction and operation impacts to the habitats and associated wildlife adjacent to the proposed STF would be resulted from increased human disturbance / activities and noise due to vehicles entering and exiting the site.

7.12.1.7 Mitigation measures such as provision of 3m high hoarding along the boundary of the works areas and site access, screening (i.e. fencing with climbers or plantation) along the STF site boundary and the two sides of access road, good site practices, use of quiet construction methods and machinery, measures to control potential sedimentation / water quality impacts as well as habitat enhancement (i.e. tree planting and creation of pond(s) for Little Grebe) have been recommended to minimize potential indirect impacts to wildlife.  As a precautionary measure, the works area will be thoroughly inspected by experience ecologist(s) to confirm no breeding activities of Little Grebe would be affected by the construction activities before commencement of any site works. 

7.12.1.8 With the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, it is anticipated that the construction and operation for the proposed Project would not result in unacceptable impacts on ecological resources.  The implementation of all mitigation measures would be subject to regular audit as part of the EM&A programme.

7.13 Reference

Anon. 1995a. Focus on fish ponds. Porcupine! 13:20.

Ades, G. and Reels, G. 1998. Mammals. In: Anon. 1998. Special Feature: Focus on Farmlands. Porcupine! No. 18. pp.19.

Arup. 2002. Agreement No. CE 109/98. Deep Bay Link - Investigation and Preliminary Design. Environmental Impact Assessment Report. Highways Department, Hong Kong.

Arup. 2002. Agreement No. CE 39/2001. Shenzhen Western Corridor - Investigation and Planning. Environmental Impact Assessment Report. Highways Department, Hong Kong.

Arup. 2008. Agreement No. CE 43/2006 (EP).West New Territories (WENT) Landfill Extensions – Feasibility Study: Baseline Ecological Survey Report for Sludge Treatment Facilities. Report to Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

Bascombe, M.J., Johnston, G. & Bascombe, F.S. 1999. The Butterflies of Hong Kong. Academic Press, United Kingdom.

Carey, G.J. Chalmers, M.L., Diskin, D.A., Kennerley, P.R., Leader, P.J., Leven, M.R., Lewthwaite, R.W., Melville, D.S., Turnbull, M., and Young, L. 2001. The Avifauna of Hong Kong. Hong Kong Bird Watching Society. Hong Kong.

CCPC. 2002. Marine Benthic Communities in Hong Kong. Centre for Coastal Polluation and Conservation. City University of Hong Kong. A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.

CDM International. 2000. Feasibility Study of Waste-to-Energy Incineration Facilities: Site Assessment Report (Ha Pak Nai) Final Report. Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

Chandraesekar-Rao, A. 1994. Distribution and ecology of Hong Kong small mammals, with special reference to seasonality. M. Phil. Thesis. Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, The University of Hong Kong.

Chan, S.K.F., Cheung, K.S., Ho, C.Y., Lam, F.N., Tang, W.S., Lau, M.W.N. and Bogadek, A. 2005. A Field Guide to the Amphibians of Hong Kong. Friends of the Country Parks.

Chau, L. and Siu, G. 1998. Orchid on ash. Porcupine: No. 17. August 1998.

Chiu, H.M.C. and Morton, B. 1999. The Biology, Distribution, and Status of Horseshoe Crabs Tachypleus tridentatus and Carcinoscorpis rotundicauda (Arthropoda: Chelioerata) in Hong Kong: Recommendations for Conservation and Management. Final Report to China Light and Power Company Limited. The Swire Institute of Marine Science, The University of Hong Kong.

Ecosystems. 1996. Southeast New Territories Landfill Environmental Monitoring, Ecological Monitoring Programme, Report on Sampling Period Number 6, August 1996. Report to Green Valley Landfill Ltd, Hong Kong.

Ecosystem. 2000. Appendix 9. Route 3 Highway Operational Ecological Monitoring and Audit and Sham Tseng Stream Restoration, Final Monitoring Report and Summary: September – December 2000.

EPD. (2007). Marine Water Quality in Hong Kong in 2006.

ERL (Asia) Ltd. 1992. EIA of the Proposed 6000MW Thermal Power Station at Black Point: Initial Assessment Report. Volume 1. The Surrounding Environment. China Light and Power Company Ltd.

ERM. 1993. EIA of Proposed 6000MW Thermal Power Station at Black Point. Key Issue Assessment.

ERM and CDM. 2000a. Sludge treatment and disposal strategy study: site specific feasibility of sludge management strategy (SMS) and sludge disposal plan (SDP). Volume 1 (Main Report). Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

ERM and CDM. 2000b. Sludge treatment and disposal strategy study: site specific feasibility of sludge management strategy (SMS) and sludge disposal plan (SDP). Volume 2 (Annexes). Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

ERM. 2003. Animal Carcass Facilities Treatment. Environmental Impact Assessment. Report to Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

ERM. 2006. EIA Study of Emissions Control Project at Castle Peak Power Station “B” Units. Castle Peak Power Company Limited.

ERM. 2007. EIA Study of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Receiving Terminal and Associated Facilities. CLP Power.

Fellowes, J.R., Lau, M.W.N., Dudgeon, D., Reels, G.T., Ades, G.W.J., Carey, G.J., Chan, B.P.L., Kendrick, R.C., Lee, K.S., Leven, M.R., Wilson, K.D.P. and Yu, Y.T. 2002. Wild animals to watch: Terrestrial and freshwater fauna of conservation concern in Hong Kong. Memoirs of the Hong Kong Natural History Society, 25: 123-159.

Goodyer, N.J. 1992. Notes on the land mammals of Hong Kong. Memoirs of The Hong Kong Natural History Society, 19: 71-78.

Huang, Q. 1997. Hong Kong’s horseshoe crabs. Porcupine: No.16 July 1997.

Hung, S.K.Y. 2007. Monitoring of Chinese White Dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in Hong Kong Waters – Data Collection: Final Report (1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007). A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.

Hung, S.K.Y. 2008. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong Waters – Data Collection: Final Report (10 April 2007 to 9 April 2008). A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.

Jefferson, T. 1998. Population biology of the Indo-pacific Hump-backed Dolphin (Sousa chinensis Osbeck, 1765) in Hong Kong Waters: Final Report. A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong. Also published in 2000 as Wildlife Monographs No. 144.

Jefferson, T.A. 2007. Monitoring of Chinese White Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) in Hong Kong Waters Biopsy Sampling and Population Data Analysis: Final Report. A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.

Karsen, S., Lau, M. and Bogadek, A. 1998. Hong Kong Amphibians and Reptiles. 2nd edition. The Provisional Urban Council, Hong Kong.

Lau, M.W.N. and Dudgeon, D. 1999. Composition and distribution of Hong Kong Amphibian fauna. Memoirs of The Hong Kong Natural History Society, 22: 1-80.

Lee, V.L.F., Lam, S.K.S., Ng, F.Y., Chan, T.K.T. and Young, M.L.C. 2004. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Hong Kong. Friends of the Country Parks and Cosmos Book Ltd.. Hong Kong.

Lo, P.Y.F. & Hui, W.L. 2004. Hong Kong Butterflies. Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Hong Kong.

Melville, D. 1980. Birds at Kai Tak airport, Hong Kong. Agriculture and Fisheries Department. Hong Kong.

Metcalf & Eddy Ltd. 2006. Feasibility Study of Sludge Treatment Facilities Environmental Study Report. Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

Mouchel Asia Environmental. 1998. Agreement No. CE 48/97. Feasibility Study for Additional Cross-border Links Stage2: Investigations on Environment, Ecology, Land Use Planning, Land Acquisition, Economic/Financial Viability and Preliminary Project Feasibility/Preliminary Design. Ecological Impact Assessment Working Paper WP3. Appendices. Planning Department, Hong Kong.

Mouchel Asia Environmental. 1999. Agreement No. CE 48/97. Feasibility Study for Additional Cross-border Links Stage2: Investigations on Environment, Ecology, Land Use Planning, Land Acquisition, Economic/Financial Viability and Preliminary Project Feasibility/Preliminary Design. Ecological Impact Assessment Working Paper WP3. Planning Department, Hong Kong.

MWH. 2003. Additional Study of Waste-to-Energy Facilities (WEF) Environmental Impact Assessment Report. Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong.

Shea, S.S., Smith, L. and Sanders, P. 1995. Ecological impact assessment and ecological monitoring of a strategic landfill: a case study in Hong Kong in Proceedings of The First Symposium of Chinese Zoologists in Southeast Asia, Guangzhou, 14-17 December 1994. Supplement to The Journal of the Sun Yaisen University 1995 (3): 30-39.

Shek, C.T. 2006. A Field Guide to the Terrestrial Mammals of Hong Kong. Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Hong Kong.

Shin, P., Cheung, S.G., Kong, R., Chiu, H. and Ke, C. 2007. Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong Revised Final Report. Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong.

Siu, G.L.P. 2002. Orchidaceae of Hong Kong. Memoirs of The Hong Kong Natural History Society, 23. 137-147.

Weatherhead, M.A. Undated. The distribution and ecology of Nepenthes mirabills in Hong Kong. Final report for the months January to June 1996. Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.

Wilson, K.D.P 2004. Field Guide to the Dragonflies of Hong Kong. Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Hong Kong.

Xing, F.W., Ng, S.C. & Chau, L.K.C. 2000. Gymnosperms and Angiosperms of Hong Kong. Memoirs of The Hong Kong Natural History Society, 23. 21-136.

Yiu, V. 2004. Butterfly Watching in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong University Press.

Yu, Y.T. 2006. Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site Waterbird Monitoring Programme 2005 – 06. Monthly Waterbird Monitoring Winter 2005 – 06 Report. The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society Ltd. A report submitted to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, Hong Kong.