7.1.1
This
Section of the report presents the results of the assessment of potential
impacts from the construction and operation of the NLDFS and CKWLR on
terrestrial and freshwater (aquatic) ecological resources in the Study Area.
Field surveys covering a period of 12 months were undertaken to establish the
baseline ecological conditions of the Study Area. Measures required to mitigate identified impacts are recommended,
as appropriate. Supplementary
terrestrial ecological information is provided in Annex E.
7.2.1
A number of
international and local regulations, legislation and guidelines provide the
framework for the protection of species and habitats of ecological importance
and those related to the Project are:
·
Country Parks Ordinance (Cap 208);
·
Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap 96);
·
Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap 170);
·
Town Planning Ordinance (Cap 131);
·
Hong Kong Planning Standards and
Guidelines Chapter 10
(HKPSG);
·
Technical Memorandum for the
Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO TM); and
·
United Nations Convention on Biodiversity (1992).
7.2.2
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.
7.2.3
The Forests and Countryside Ordinance
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 rare and protected plant species.
The list of protected species in Hong Kong which comes under the
Forestry Regulations was last amended on 11 June 1993 under the Forestry (Amendment) Regulation 1993
made under Section 3 of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance.
7.2.4
Under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance,
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 are protected
under this Ordinance. The Second
Schedule of the Ordinance which lists all the animals protected was last revised
in June 1992.
7.2.5
The amended Town Planning Ordinance 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. The authority responsible for administering
the Town Planning Ordinance is the
Town Planning Board.
7.2.6
Chapter 10 of the 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 addresses the issue of enforcement. The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls
for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and
government departments involved in conservation.
7.2.7
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.
7.2.8
The
Peoples' Republic of China (PRC) are one of the Contracting Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological
Diversity of 1992. The Convention requires signatories to make
active efforts to protect and manage their biodiversity resources. Hong Kong Government has stated that it will
be 'committed to meeting the environmental objectives' of the Convention (PELB
1996).
7.3.1
A
literature review of the terrestrial ecological condition within the Study
Area, which includes the lands, the foreshore areas and other places designed
for the purpose of Northshore Lantau Development Feasibility Assignment, and
relevant reports was conducted including the Route
10 - North Lantau to Yuen Long Highway Investigation and Preliminary Design:
Southern Section EIA (1999), Lantau Port Development - Stage 1 Container
Terminals 10 and 11, Preliminary Design Study (1995) and The Conservation
Strategy for Lantau (1998). Consultations with local ecologists was also
undertaken, where appropriate. Habitat
and ecological communities within the Study Area has been mapped with reference
to the Vegetation Map prepared by World Wide Fund for Nature Hong Kong (1994).
7.3.2
Broad
scoping field surveys were then undertaken to supplement and field check the
data collected through the baseline/literature review process. Areas of ecological interest that would be
directly or indirectly affected by the proposed Development were then surveyed
in more details.
7.3.3
All the
field data was collected between January 1999 and December 1999, covering the
wet and dry seasons (See Annex E-1 survey
schedule). The ecological surveys
covered habitat/vegetation, stream fauna, avifauna, mammals, herpetofauna and
invertebrates, and the methodologies used are presented below.
7.3.4
The
potential ecological impacts due to the development of the Study Area were
assessed following EIAO TM Annex 16 guidelines and the impacts evaluated based
on the criteria in EIAO TM Annex 8.
Habitat/Vegetation
7.3.5
Each
representative habitat type was surveyed on foot. All plant species encountered were identified and recorded to
species level, whenever possible, and the relative abundance of the plant
species was also recorded. The dominant
flora or fauna of each habitat/land-use type were also identified, with
subsequent further habitat and vegetation verifications undertaken.
Stream Fauna
7.3.6
Physical
conditions of the streams were recorded.
Stream fauna were investigated through direct observation and active
searching.
Avifauna
7.3.7
All bird
species and numbers encountered in all major habitat types within the Study
Area were recorded in the field.
Surveys were undertaken both in wet and dry season.
Wildlife (Mammals and
Herpetofauna)
7.3.8
Signs or
other evidences of mammal presence were noted in the field by active searching
in potential mammal habitats.
7.3.9
Sampling
techniques involving direct observation and active searching for reptiles in
potential shelter sites/hiding places and amphibian in potential habitats were
employed.
Invertebrates (Butterfly,
Dragonfly and Damselfly)
7.3.10
Butterfly,
dragonfly and damselfly fauna were investigated by direct observation/
searching in all major habitat types within the Study Area. Surveys were undertaken
during the most active period of the invertebrates in the wet season.
Night Survey
7.3.11
A night
survey was undertaken mainly focusing on nocturnal avifauna. The presence of any large mammals was also
noted
Habitat/Vegetation
7.4.1
The
north-eastern part of Lantau within the Study Area comprises predominantly
grassland/shrubland mosaic habitat. The
other terrestrial habitat types within the Study Area include tall shrubland,
secondary woodland, abandoned farmland, wetland, plantation, village/orchard,
wasteland, freshwater stream as well as backshore vegetation. A habitat map
showing locations of recorded flora and fauna of ecological interest are shown
in Figure 7.4a-1 & 2. A description of the general
ecological conditions of the identified habitats are given below. Details of plant species recorded are
presented in Annex E-2.
Secondary Woodland
7.4.2
The
woodlands present are continuous with an average height of more than 6m. The secondary woodland at Luk Keng Tsuen, Fa
Peng, Tso Wan, Ngong Shuen Au and the headland between Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan and
Pa Tau Kwu Nam Wan are confined to the low-altitude area next to villages and
ravines, Figure 7.4b-1 shows a
typical secondary woodland. There are
also several patches of secondary woodland at Tung Yip Hang, Yam O and To Kau
Wan. The plant species diversity is
considered moderate with a total of 57 species recorded. Due to their proximity to villages and
orchards, introduced tree species such as Dimocarpus
longan and Leucaena leucocephala,
as well as crop plants were also found.
7.4.3
Plant
species recorded are typical of secondary woodlands in Hong Kong and dominant
tree species recorded include common species Cratoxylum cochinchinense, Aporosa
dioica, Litsea glutinosa, Mallotus paniculatus, Microcos paniculata and Schefflera octophylla. Height of trees range from 6-12 m. The dominant species and the structure of
the woodlands suggested that the secondary woodlands have been regenerated
recently by succession in the last 30-50 years.
7.4.4
A rare Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan and
restricted Vitis balanceana at Kwai
Shek and San Po Tsui, were found. Vitis balanceana (see Figure 7.4b-1) is abundant at north
shore of Lantau (Tai O, Tung Chung, Kwai Shek), Yuen Long and Castle Peak.
Tall Shrubland
7.4.5
Tall
shrubland is a transitional stage in ecological succession between shrubland
and woodland. The tall shrubland
recorded comprised woody vegetation with the average height ranged from 2-5 m
(see Figure 7.4b-1). They occur in scattered patches and a total
of 93 plant species were recorded in the Study Area. This habitat have much less grassy species and more woody species
as well as climbers that characterize forest.
In the Study Area, such habitat was mostly found along streams and in
valleys which were less affected by hill-fires.
7.4.6
Such
habitat is dominated by the shrub Cratoxylum
cochinchinense, Litsea rotundifolia,
Litsea glutinosa, Schefflera octophylla and Rhus succedanea. Seven locally rare/ restricted species recorded in this
habitat type include Rhapis excelsa, Eriocaulon merrilli, Schoenus falcatus, Vitis balanceana, Diplarcum
caricinum, Alpinia galanga and Scleria lithosperma.
7.4.7
Among these
species, Schoenus falcatus (see Figure 7.4b-1) is considered the most
important because it was for the first time recorded in Hong Kong under the
present study, found only in the area with water flow and near rocky shore at
Chok Ko Wan. The species had neither
been reported in the Biodiversity Survey (1998, in preparation) nor by J. Shaw (1999). This species was reported only from Kuizhou, Guangxi, Taiwan,
Vietnam and Ryukyu Island and had not been reported in Guangdong up to Tang and
Wang (1961).
7.4.8
On the
whole this habitat has moderate species diversity and naturalness.
Grassland/Shrubland Mosaic
7.4.9
The
grassland/shrubland mosaic is the dominant habitat type within the Study Area,
locating on hillslopes and ridges (Figure
7.4b-2
). The species composition of
this habitat is mainly herbaceous or woody plant species with an average height
of less than 1.5 m A total of 90 plant
species was recorded. Major plant
species include the common shrub Baeckea
frutescens, Arundinella setosa, Cymbopogon goeringii, Eulalia quadrinervis, Isachaemum
barbartum and the fern Dicranopteris
linearis were recorded. The
dominant species present indicated that such habitat had been frequently
disturbed by hill fires. The species
and structural diversity are considered low to moderate.
7.4.10
A protected
plant species Lilium brownii (see Figure 7.4b-2) were recorded within this
habitat. Lilium brownii is locally common in Hong Kong but is protected
under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance in Hong Kong.
Abandoned Farmland
7.4.11
This
habitat is represented by a small patch behind the beach of Pa Tau Kwu (see Figure 7.4b-2) and also a large patch
close to Fa Peng Teng. The dominant
species include Neyraudia arundinacea (N.
reyaudiana), Mikania micrantha, Apluda mutica and Cyclosorus interruptus.
Only 31 species were recorded and neither rare nor protected species
were found in abandoned farmland. This
habitat is poor in floristic diversity and also simple in structure. Since the habitat was formed by human
activity, it is low in naturalness and high in re-creatability.
Wetland
7.4.12
Brackish
wetlands are dominated by grasses with an average height of less than 1.5 m and
a relative high salinity. Two brackish
wetland patches were found next to Luk Keng Tsuen and next to the Penny’s Bay
Gas Turbine Plant of China Light & Power (CLP) respectively. The Luk Keng Tsuen brackish wetland
(approximately 0.3 ha) is probably abandoned farmland that has become partially
flooded by water. It is dominated by Panicum repens, Cyperus malaccensis (C.
malccensis var. brevifolius) and Hedychium coronarium. The brackish wetland near Penny’s Bay Gas
Turbine Plant (approximately 1 ha) is dominated by the Zoysia sp. This habitat
type is low in habitat heterogeneity and floristic diversity. In total 22
species were recorded. Neither rare nor
restricted species were found.
7.4.13
A narrow
strip of freshwater wetland area (approximately 1 ha) is present at the back of
the shipyard on the eastern side of Penny’s Bay. At least part of the wetland is permanently flooded (Figure 7.4b-2). Vegetation present is dominated by herbs
less than 1.5 m tall. The dominant species include Fuirena ciliata, Fimbristylis
complanata, Fimbristylis acuminata
and Eragrostic sp. This habitat is probably
only formed recently by seepage from the hillsides behind after the shipyard
reclamation.
Naturalness is, therefore, only moderate and recreatability is
high. This habitat is poor in
floristic diversity and also simple in structure. Among the species recorded, two rare species,
Fimbristylis acuminata (covered
approximately 500 m2) and Fimbristylis
complanata (covered approximately 500 m2), and one protected
species, Nepenthes mirabilis (Pitcher
plant, covered approximately 80 m2 in total, see Figure 7.4b-3), were found. Fimbristylis
acuminata, a cyperaceae wetland herbs, is locally rare in Hong Kong and had
been seen in a few wetland sites in Hong Kong, including Shui Hau (Lantau), Hoi
Ha and Lai Chi Chong (Sai Kung). The pitcher plant Nepenthes mirabilis is a carnivorous creeping subshrub which has
protected in Hong Kong under the Forest and Countryside Ordinance. The species is widespread in
S.E. Asia and is distributed from Southern China (Guangdong and Hainan),
Indochina to Northern Australia. It is
also widely cultivated as an ornamental and can adapte to wide range of
habitats. It is common in Hong Kong and
could be found along streams in Western New Territories (Castle Peak, Tai Lam,
Siu Lam, So Kwu Wat), Western Lantau (Man Cheung Po) and Northern Lantau (Hau Hok
Wan), and North East Lantau (Pak Mong).
Wherever the species occur, the plant usually forms a large dense
colony.
7.4.14
An
abandoned man-made fish pond is located near the western tip of Tso Wan village
at approximately 40 m elevation. It is
approximately a third of a hectare in size.
A man-made fishpond near San Po Tsui is still in operation. Owing to its small size, the species
richness is relatively low.
However, the locally restricted Fimbristylis complanata and Diplarcum caricinum were found next to
the pond.
Plantation
7.4.15
This
habitat type is dominated by woody species planted for landscape purpose. Plantations comprise mainly Acacia confusa
and Leucaena leucocephala were found around the Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant
and excavated hillside at Chok Ko Wan (see Figure 7.4b-3) and Tung Yip
Hang. Only five tree species were found
with heights of trees range from 5-15 m.
All the trees species are introduced species of relatively low
ecological importance.
Orchard/Village
7.4.16
Orchards
were found among villages at Ngong Shuen Au, Luk Keng Tsuen, Tso Wan, and Fa
Peng (see Figure 7.4b-3). Dominant components included common fruit
trees such as Dimocarpus longan and Clausena lansium, as well as
ornamental/landscape trees such as Acacia
confusa and Albizia lebbeck. Tree species associated with human activity
such as Celtis tetrandra (C. sinensisis) and Macaranga tanarius were commonly observed, while typical secondary
woodland tree species such as Bridelia
tomentosa and Litsea glutinosa
6-12m in height, were also found.
Neither rare nor protected plants were recorded among the 42 recorded
species.
Wasteland
7.4.17
Wastelands
refer to open flatland area formed from reclamation on both sides of the North
Lantau Highway near Yam O and the largest one were found next to the shipyard
and the Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant of China Light & Power (CLP) (Figure 7.4b-3). Dominant species such as Neyraudia reyaudiana and exotic weeds
including Mikania micrantha and Lantana camara were recorded. This habitat is very open and low in
floristic diversity (35 species in total), habitat heterogeneity and
naturalness.
Backshore Vegetation
7.4.18
A total of
88 plant species were recorded in the backshore vegetation along the
coastline. Vegetation found at the
backshores of sandy beaches included dominant plant species of Clerodendrum inerme, Scaevola sericea, Vitex rotundifolia, Macaranga
tanarius, Cerbera manghas and Hibiscus tiliaceus. Floristic diversity was low to moderate,
with one rare species, Schoenus falcatus,
and one locally restricted tree Thespesia
populnea (Figure 7.4b-4)
recorded. Thespesia populnea is restricted to coastal area and it is only
found in Sha Tau Kok and Lantau (e.g. Tung Chung and Shui Hau) in Hong Kong.
7.4.19
The
backshore vegetation of rocky shore is continuous with shrublands or secondary
woodlands further landward (see Figure
7.4b-4
). Dominant plants found
included Hibiscus tiliaceus, Cerbera manghas, Pandanus tectorius, Scolopia
chinensis and Atalantia buxifolia. Floristic diversity is moderate but habitat
heterogeneity is very low as a result of sparse vegetation. Four rare species, Phymatodes scolopendria, Berchemia
lineata, Schoenus falcatus and Scleria rugosa were found in back shore
vegetation within the Study Area, while restricted species were included Vitis balanceana and Thespesia populnea (see Figure 7.4a-1 for there location).
Phymatodes scolopendria is very rare and has only been found in a
few very isolated sites. Berchemia
lineata , a creeping shrub found on rocky shore, is also locally rare and not
protected in Hong Kong and had only been seen from Sai Wan (Sai Kung) and on a
few outlying islands. Scattered
individuals were found on the rocky shore on the west side of Penny’s Bay (see Figure 7.4a-1). Scleria
rugosa, a cyperaceae annual herb, is rare and not protected in Hong Kong
and had only been seen along stream in Tai Tam (Hong Kong) and Lai Chi Chong
(Sai Kung). A small populations of this
species were found in backshore vegetation of rocky shore with freshwater
seepage on the west shore of Penny’s Bay.
Freshwater Streams
7.4.20
There are
several freshwater streams within the Study Area (see Figure 7.4a-1 for locations).
The two main streams within the northern Tsing Chau Tsai headland are
the Tso Wan and Fa Peng Streams (see Figure
7.4b-4
). Tso Wan stream is a
permanent mid-gradient stream that runs through the village of Tso Wan. Due to access difficulty, the stream remains
pollution free without human disturbance.
The upper reaches of the stream course is subject to shading by riparian
vegetation but it becomes more exposed as the stream empties towards the
sea. Vegetation along the stream banks
consists of low-lying shrubs and grasses.
The Fa Peng stream was not sampled due to access problem. However, it is expected to be similar to the
Tso Wan stream because of their close proximity and hence similarity in
geological and environmental conditions.
7.4.21
There are
four main streams within the southern Tsing Chau Tsai headland, Mong Tung Hang
Stream behind the shipyard, a stream behind the CLP Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine
Plant and two streams at Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan and Pa Tau Kwu Nam Wan and one more
stream is found in Yam O.
7.4.22
The upper
Mong Tung Hang Stream with rocky substrate was observed to be natural and free
from pollution, with shrubby riparian vegetation. The lower section is channelised and goes underground where it
enters the shipyard (see Figure 7.4b-4).
7.4.23
The stream
behind the Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant remains natural and clean, with
shrubland habitats along the upper section, and brackish wetland at the
estuary.
7.4.24
The
conditions of the two streams at Pa Tau Kwu are similar given their similarity
in geographic and physical environment.
Both streams are small with bedrock as substratum, and they also remain
clean and intact owing to the remote locations with riparian vegetation
comprising shrubland/grassland species.
The lower course of the stream at Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan enters into a beach
with rubbish accumulated. The size of
the Pa Tau Kwu Nam Wan stream is smaller than the stream at Pak Wan, and it
drains into an abandoned agricultural field.
7.4.25
Similar to
the Mong Tung Hang Stream, the Yam O Stream is natural and free from pollution
with rocky substrate. The lower section
runs into a secondary woodland and shade by trees.
7.4.26
In general
all upper stream courses upland of the mountain within the Study Area have
limited water flow. These small bedrock
streams are found to support only limited aquatic life.
Animal
Wildlife
7.4.27
A review of
the survey findings indicate that the animal wildlife recorded within the Study
Area show little seasonality. Except
the avifauna, most of the wildlife do not show seasonal variation. More bird species was recorded within the
Study Area during the winter season as about 36% of the recorded bird species
are winter visitor. Neither rare nor
protected species were found during the night survey. Key findings of the wildlife surveys are presented below and
details of animal wildlife species recorded are shown in Annex E-3.
Mammal
7.4.28
Faeces of
civets were observed once only in January 1999 on a major path on Fa Peng Teng
where the dominant vegetation was grassland/shrubland mosaic (Figure 7.4a-1). No more records of civet nor their faeces
were found during the survey period. No
signs of other mammal, such as barking deer (Muntiacus
reevesi) were recorded, which is likely to be due to the lack of
suitable habitats as the areas are too open and there is not sufficient cover
for large mammals.
Herpetofauna
7.4.29
For
herpetofauna, only 7 common species such as the introduced Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta), Asian Common Toad Bufo melanostictus and Gunther's Frog Rana guentheri were recorded during the
field surveys. All the recorded
amphibians were found in freshwater wetland areas and the reptiles were found
in grassland/shrubland mosaic areas.
7.4.30 Although
several populations of Romer's Tree Frog (Philautus
romeri) were recorded in Lantau Island, however, no Romer's Tree Frog, its
call, nor tadpoles was found during the surveys conducted in February, May,
October, November and December 1999.
Invertebrates
7.4.31
Twenty-four
species of dragonfly and damselfly were recorded in the Study Area and they are
all common in Hong Kong. The habitats within the Study Area are not
favourable for dragonflies
and damselflies, most of recorded species were
encountered close to areas with fresh water.
7.4.32 The field surveys recorded sixty-nine
species of butterfly, but none of which is rare nor of ecological
significance. Most of the
butterflies were encountered at the edge of woodlands and often settle on nearby
shrubby vegetation. It was in the Tso
Wan area that most of the butterfly species was recorded.
Stream Fauna
7.4.33
No rare,
endangered, nor endemic stream invertebrate were found at all the stream sites
sampled.
7.4.34
Fish can
only be found in lower course of Mong Tung Hang Stream and the stream behind
the Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant within the Study Area, no fish species were
found in upland stream. Six fish
species were found in the streams, including the locally rare Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes) in Mong Tung Hang
Stream (Figure 7.4b-4</i>), Mosquito Fish
(Gambusia affinis) in seepage pools
feeding artificial ditch in the shipyard, as well as Grey Mullet ( Mugil cephalus), Mudskipper (Periophthalmus cantonensis), Puffer Fish
(Fugu niphobles) and Therapon jarbua in the stream behind the
Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant. Except
the Rice Fish, which is locally rare (location shown in Figure 7.4a-1), the others are common species.
7.4.35
According
to Chong and Dudgeon (1992), the distribution of the Rice Fish Oryzias latipes in Hong Kong has reduced
dramatically, and is now restricted to a few isolated sites in Hong Kong;
including Chi Ma Wan on Lantau, Sam A Tsuen in North-east New Territories,
eastern Sai Kung and Tung Chung area. It
can be considered as endangered in Hong Kong due to the fragmented distribution
of generally small populations. It is unusual to find this species at the fast
flowing Mong Tung Hang stream, as it is usually found in standing waterbodies
or slow-flowing streams (Pan, 1991; Kawanabe and Mizuno, 1996). The population
at Mong Tung Hang stream is restricted to the lowest natural reach of the
stream course before the channelized concrete watercourse section closed to the
Cheoy Lee Shipyard.
Avifauna
7.4.36
Almost all
the 59 species of avifauna recorded are common in Hong Kong such as Black Kite
(Milvus milgrans), Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis), Chinese Bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), Red-whiskered
Bulbul (Pycnonotus joscosus),
Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonica),
Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach)
and Yellow-bellied Prinia (Prinia
flaviventrius). The rare winter
visitor Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola)
and migrant Sparrowhawk (Accipiter sp.)
were observed flying pass. Most of the
birds use the grassland/shrubland mosaic as foraging and roosting ground, and
the shore birds such as kingfisher, heron and egret forage mainly in the
coastal areas.
7.4.37
The most
significant finding of the avian survey is the recording of the locally rare
White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus
leucogaster) in Pa Tau Kwu. From
our survey records in this study, White-bellied Sea Eagles Haliaeetus leucogaster
were observed foraging from Yi Chuen to Pa Tau Kwu in earlier surveys and were
initially considered to comprise one of the known local breeding White-bellied
Sea Eagles from Green Island or Tang Lung Chau. However, a breeding pair of White-bellied Sea Eagle and their
nest was recently (November and December 1999) identified in the woodland at Pa
Tau Kwu during avian survey in the Study Area (see Figure 7.4a-1 for the location and Figure 7.4b-5 for the photographic record of the bird). A White-bellied Sea Eagle juvenile,
estimated to be 1 - 2 years old and capable of flight, was also recorded in the
Pa Tau Kwu woodland during the avian survey in November 1999 but left and has
not been seen again after November 1999.
The nest was located on a tree Tetradium
glabrifolium, approximately 3 - 4 m above the ground and facing towards Pa
Tau Kwu Nam Wan. The nest was estimated
to be 1.1 m in width and 0.3 m in depth comprising large fresh wooden sticks
and twigs (see Figure 7.4b-5). The relatively small
nest size indicates recent construction or occupation; additionally it has been
reported recently that a nesting pair of White-bellied Sea Eagles previously
located on Tang Lung Chau south of Ma Wan have vacated their nest.
7.4.38
The
White-bellied Sea Eagle is a scarce breeding species in Hong Kong, with between
ten and 20 breeding pairs previously recorded during 1993-99), including the
one in Tang Lung Chau (based on up to 20 different breeding sites identified),
which is distributed in different parts of the Hong Kong waters including Tolo
Harbour, Mirs Bay, Port Shelter, south and west of Hong Kong Island, and both
north and south of Lantau.(Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, in prep.). Their nests are usually built on steep and
rocky islands with major preference of big trees in a commanding position on a
wooded knoll or headland (Wells, 1999).
The size of nest is usually about 1.5 m across and comparatively thin
when new. The nest would be used repeatedly with nest refurbishment in each
breeding season by the same pair (Viney et.
al., 1994).
7.4.39
The
White-bellied Sea Eagle has a wide distribution, ranging from India and Sri
Lanka to South China, the Philippines, Wallacea, New Guinea as well as Bismarks
to Australia and Tasmania (Howard & Moore, 1998; del Hoyo et. al., 1994), with its presence
restricted to Guangdong and Fujian Provinces in China and occasional records of
non-breeding birds elsewhere ( Cheng, 1987).
White-bellied Sea Eagles are known to be predominantly pisciverous,
taking mainly fish carrions (Blackers et.
al., 1985). White-bellied Sea
Eagles in Hong Kong are also predominantly pisciverous and feed on live fish,
but the extent to which they scavenges is not known.
7.4.40
Based on
literature in Australia, the White-bellied Sea Eagle may be susceptible to
human disturbance and may abandon their nest or young (or be deterred from
breeding) when disturbed (Marchant & Higgins, 1993). However the locally breeding White-bellied
Sea Eagles recorded on Green Island, however, are tolerant to the existing
disturbance such as from helicopter, boats travelling pass, and the urban
development at Kennedy Town approximately 600 m away. The presence of the breeding pair of the White-bellied Sea Eagles
at the Pa Tau Kwu woodland indicates that the
surrounding disturbance from motor boats, ships, helicopter and aircraft
may have a minor impact on the birds.
Therefore the White-bellied Sea Eagles in Hong Kong may have certain
degree of tolerance to disturbance.
Ecological
Value
7.4.41
In
accordance with the EIAO TM Annex 8
criteria, the ecological importance of the recorded habitats are evaluated in
the tables below.
Table 7.4a - Ecological Value of Secondary
Woodland in the Study Area
Criteria
|
Pa Tau Kwu headland
|
Other secondary woodlands within Study
Area
|
Naturalness
|
Natural
habitat with limited human disturbance.
|
The
secondary woodlands have been modified and subjected to human disturbance.
|
Size
|
Approximately
2 ha in size.
|
The
average size is approximately 2 ha.
|
Diversity
|
The
species diversity is moderate.
|
The
species diversity is moderate.
|
Rarity
|
Locally
rare White-bellied Sea Eagles Haliaeetus
leucogaster were recorded in the
woodland.
|
One
rare plant Amorphophallus variabilis
and one restricted plants Vitis
balanceana were found in the secondary woodlands.
|
Re-creatability
|
It
will take some time (10-40 yrs) for
the secondary woodlands to be re-created.
|
It
will take some time (10-40 yrs) for the secondary woodlands to be re-created.
|
Fragmentation
|
The
woodland is not fragmented.
|
The
woodlands are not fragmented.
|
Ecological
linkage
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
Potential
value
|
The
potential value is considered moderate.
|
The
potential value is considered moderate.
|
Nursery
ground
|
A
nest of White-bellied Sea Eagles Haliaeetus
leucogaster was found inside the
woodland.
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
Age
|
The
habitats are relatively mature.
|
The
habitats are relatively mature.
|
Abundance/Richness
of Wildlife
|
Moderate
|
Moderate
|
Ecological value
|
High
|
Moderate
|
Table 7.4b - Ecological Value of
Grassland/Shrubland Mosaic and Tall Shrublandin
the Study Area
Criteria
|
Grassland/Shrubland Mosaic
|
Tall Shrubland
|
Naturalness
|
Natural
habitat but subject to frequent hill-fire.
|
Natural
habitat but subject to hill-fire.
|
Size
|
The
grassland/shrubland mosaic is the predominant habitat types within the Study
Area.
|
Small
patches of tall shrubland; mostly found along streams and in valleys.
|
Diversity
|
The
species diversity is low.
|
The
species diversity is low
|
Rarity
|
A
protected plant species Lilium brownii
was recorded in grassland/shrubland mosaic.
|
Seven
locally rare/ restricted plant species recorded in this habitat type,
including Rhapis excelsa, Eriocaulon merrilli, Schoenus falcatus, Vitis balanceana, Diplarcum caricinum, Alpinia galanga and Scleria lithosperma. Among these species, Schoenus falcatus is the most important because it is a new
record to Hong Kong.
|
Re-creatability
|
The
vegetation type is secondary and readily re-created naturally or artificially
and would recover easily from disturbance.
|
The
vegetation type is secondary and readily re-created naturally or artificially
and would recover easily from disturbance.
|
Fragmentation
|
The
grassland/shrubland mosaic is not fragmented.
|
The
tall shrubland habitat are fragmented.
|
Ecological
linkage
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
Potential
value
|
The
potential value is considered low.
|
The
dense vegetation cover of the tall shrubland suggested it has the potential
to be transformed into woodland, the potential value is therefore considered
moderate.
|
Nursery
ground
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
Age
|
The
habitats are frequently disturbed and therefore are secondary in nature.
|
The
habitats are disturbed and therefore are secondary in nature.
|
Abundance/Richness
of Wildlife
|
Low
|
Low
|
Ecological value
|
Low
|
Low
|
Table 7.4c - Ecological Value of Wetlandin the Study Area
Criteria
|
Brackish Wetland
|
Freshwater Wetland
|
Naturalness
|
Naturalness
is only moderate.
|
Naturalness
is only moderate and partially man-made habitat.
|
Size
|
All
small in size.
|
All
small in size.
|
Diversity
|
The
species diversity is low.
|
The
species diversity is low
|
Rarity
|
No
rare nor protected species were found in this habitat type.
|
Two rare plant species, Fimbristylis
acuminata and Fimbristylis
complanata one protected species, Nepenthes
mirabilis, were found.
|
Re-creatability
|
Re-creatability
is moderate to high.
|
Re-creatability
is moderate to high.
|
Fragmentation
|
These
habitat types are not fragmented.
|
The
wetlands are not fragmented, but small in size.
|
Ecological
linkage
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
Potential
value
|
Low
value for man-made habitats.
|
The
potential value is considered moderate.
|
Nursery
ground
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
Age
|
Not
applicable.
|
The
habitats probably formed recently by seepage from hillsides behind after
reclamation.
|
Abundance/Richness
of Wildlife
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Ecological value
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Table 7.4d - Ecological Value of Wasteland/
Abandoned Farmland/ Plantation/ Orchard/Village and Backshore Vegetationin the Study Area
Criteria
|
Wasteland/Abandoned Farmland/
Plantation/ Orchard/Village
|
Backshore Vegetation
|
Naturalness
|
All
are man-created habitats.
|
Natural
habitat with limited human disturbance.
|
Size
|
All
small in size.
|
Moderate
in size
|
Diversity
|
The
species diversity is low.
|
The
species diversity is moderate.
|
Rarity
|
No
rare nor protected species were found in these habitat types.
|
Four
rare plant species, Phymatodes
scolopendria, Berchemia lineata,
Schoenus falcatus and Scleria rugosa and two restricted
plant species Vitis balanceana and Thespesia populnea were found in back
shore vegetation.
|
Re-creatability
|
All
the habitat types can be re-created easily.
|
It
has a moderate re-creatability.
|
Fragmentation
|
These
habitat types are not fragmented.
|
The
habitats are not fragmented but always have a linear shape.
|
Ecological
linkage
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
Potential
value
|
Low
value for man-made habitats.
|
The
potential value is low.
|
Nursery
ground
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
Age
|
Not
applicable.
|
Relative
mature and stable.
|
Abundance/Richness
of Wildlife
|
Low
|
Low
|
Ecological value
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Table 7.4e - Ecological Value of Stream Habitatsin the Study Area
Criteria
|
Tso Wan/ Fa Peng/ Pa Tau Kwu North
Wan/ Pa Tau Kwu South Wan/ Yam O/ behind the CLP Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine
Plant
|
Mong Tung Hang
|
Naturalness
|
The
streams are largely natural and free of pollution.
|
The
streams are largely natural and free of pollution.
|
Size
|
The
length of the natural streams at Tso Wan, Fa Peng, Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan, Pa Tau
Kwu Nam Wan , Yam O and behind the CLP Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant are
approximately 1700 m, 3700 m, 1100 m, 600 m, 1000 m, 1600 m respectively.
|
The
length of the natural streams is approximately 1600 m.
|
Diversity
|
The
species diversity is moderate to low.
|
The
species diversity is moderate to low.
|
Rarity
|
No
rare nor protected species were found in these habitat types.
|
Locally
rare Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes)
was found at the lower section of Mong Tung Hang Stream.
|
Re-creatability
|
The
stream habitats could be re-created.
|
The
stream habitats could be re-created.
|
Fragmentation
|
Not
applicable.
|
Not
applicable.
|
Ecological
linkage
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
The
present habitats are not functionally linked to any highly valued habitat in
close proximity in a significant way.
|
Potential
value
|
The
potential value is moderate to low.
|
The
potential value is moderate to low.
|
Nursery
ground
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
No
record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
|
Age
|
Not
applicable
|
Not
applicable
|
Abundance/Richness
of Wildlife
|
Low
|
Low
|
Ecological value
|
Low to Moderate
|
High
|
7.4.42
Based on
the ecological conditions presented in the above sections, it is considered
that the grassland/shrubland mosaic and tall shrubland habitats within the
Study Area have generally low value because of their low species diversity and
most of the species identified are common, widespread and typical to such
habitats in Hong Kong.
7.4.43
The
ecological value of the wasteland, abandoned farmland, orchard/village and
plantation habitats is limited given the frequent human disturbance and low
species diversity in these habitat types.
7.4.44
The
predominant freshwater streams remain natural and unpolluted and are generally
considered to be of moderate ecological value.
The lower stream courses are relatively more important since most of the
stream associated wildlife recorded were found there, but the upper stream
courses which are small with bedrock as substratum have much fewer aquatic
life. The brackish wetlands have low
value because of their low species diversity and most of the species identified
are common, while the freshwater wetlands are considered to have generally
moderate value.
7.4.45
All the
secondary woodlands have generally moderate ecological value, except the
woodland in Pa Tau Kwu with a nesting ground of the locally rare White-bellied
Sea Eagle has a high ecological value.
7.4.46
Regarding
flora of ecological interest (location map refer to Figure 7.4a-1), there are sixteen locally restricted/rare plant
species of conservation interest including Phymatodes
scolopendria, Berchemia lineata,
Eriocaulon
merrilli, Schoenus falcatus, Scleria rugosa, and Thespesia populnea etc. Fauna of ecological interest found
inhabiting within the Study Area include the rare Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes) found in the lowest
section of the Mong Tung Hang Stream, as well as the White-bellied Sea Eagles Haliaeetus leucogaster and their nest recorded at Pa Tau Kwu woodland.
7.4.47
The
evaluation of the species with ecological interest according to the EIAO TM are
given below:
Table 7.4f - Evaluation of Floral Species with
Ecological Interest within Study Area
Species
|
Growth Form
|
Location
|
Protection Status
|
Distribution
|
Rarity
|
Species Directly Impacted:
|
Schoenus falcatus
|
Herb
|
Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Sze Pak Wan
|
Rare and recorded for the first time in HK
|
Eriocaulon merrilli
|
Herb
|
Yi Chuen, Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Tung Chung, Sai Kung and Lai Chi Wo
|
Restricted
|
Lilium brownii
|
Tree
|
Fa Peng Teng
|
Protected
|
No information
|
Common
|
Thespesia populnea
|
Tree
|
Fa Peng, Luk Keng Tsuen and Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan
|
Not protected
|
Sha Tau Kok, Tung Chung and Sui Hau
|
Restricted
|
Amorphophallus variabilis
|
Herb
|
Tso Wan
|
Not protected
|
No information
|
Rare
|
Vitis balanceana (due to Route 10)
|
Climber
|
Kwai Shek and San Po Tsui
|
Not protected
|
Yuen Long, Sha Chau, Peng Chau, Tai O and Tung Chung
|
Restricted
|
Species May Be Indirectly Impacted:
|
Berchemia lineata
|
Shrub
|
Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Tai Long Wan (Sai Kung), Ping Chau (Mirs Bay) and
Lung Kwu Chau
|
Rare
|
Scleria rugosa
|
Herb
|
Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Lai Chi Chong and Violet Hill
|
Rare
|
Fimbristylis acuminata
|
Herb
|
Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Shui Hau, Hoi Ha and Lai Chi Chong
|
Rare
|
Fimbristylis complanata
|
Herb
|
San Po Tsui, Yi Chuen and Chok Ko Wan
|
Not protected
|
Lai Chi Wo, Ngoon Ping at Ma On Shan and Tai Ho.
|
Rare
|
Nepenthes mirabilis (Pitcher plant)
|
Herb
|
Chok Ko Wan
|
Protected
|
North Lantau and New Territories, etc.
|
Restricted
|
Scleria lithosperma
|
Herb
|
Fa Peng
|
Not protected
|
Ap Lei Chau, Middle Island, Hei Ling Chau and San
Tau
|
Restricted
|
Species Not Impacted:
|
Rhapis excelsa
|
Shrub
|
Yi Chuen,
|
Not protected
|
Wu Kau Tang
|
Restricted
|
Diplarcum caricinum
|
Grass
|
San Po Tsui
|
Not protected
|
Sham Chung and Nine Pin Island
|
Rare
|
Phymatodes scolopendrai
|
Herb
|
San Po Tsui
|
Not protected
|
Sha Chau, Chek Chau and Round Island
|
Rare
|
Alpinia galanga
|
Herb
|
San Po Tsui
|
Not protected
|
Pat Sin Leng
|
Restricted
|
Table 7.4g - Evaluation of Faunal Species with
Ecological Interest within Study Area
Species
|
Growth Form
|
Location
|
Protection Status
|
Distribution
|
Rarity
|
Haliaeetus leucogaster
|
White-bellied Sea Eagle
|
Pa Tau Kwu woodland
|
Proposed national first-grade wildlife for
protection
|
Ten to 20 breeding pairs in HK SAR have been
recorded and distributed in different parts of Hong Kong (Hong
Kong Bird Watching Society, in prep.)
|
Locally rare
|
Oryzias latipes
|
Rice Fish
|
Mong
Tung Hang stream
|
Not protected
|
Chi
Ma Wan, Sam A Tsuen Tung Chung and Eastern Sai Kung
|
Locally rare
|
7.5.1
The
potential terrestrial ecological impact arising from the proposed NSLD would be
associated with:
Construction
Phase
·
Direct habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and
indirect impact to those wildlife associated with the habitats because of
landtaking for the development and road/rail line/trail construction; and
·
Indirect impact to the surrounding habitats and
associated wildlife such as from increased human activities/disturbance,
uncontrolled storage or dumping of construction material, and hill fire.
Operation
Phase
·
Indirect impact to the surrounding habitats and
associated wildlife because of increased human activities/disturbance
associated with the operation of the proposed Development.
7.6.1
This
section presents an assessment of the potential impact on the terrestrial
ecological resources within the Study Area, based on the proposed Development
on the RODP, as described in Section 2.
Impact
Assessment
Construction Phase
7.6.2
The
proposed NSLD will be mainly on reclaimed land with limited ecological value,
and therefore the assessment in this Section will only focus on potential
terrestrial ecological impact on natural habitats in relation to the proposed
Developments below:
·
International
Theme Park (TP) in Penny’s Bay;
·
Chok Kok
Wan Link Road (CKWLR);
·
Road P1
with tunnel portal areas at Yam O Tuk;
·
Water
Service Facilities including salt water/fresh water reservoirs and a salt water
pumping station on the hill slopes to the west of Fa Peng.
·
Village
Expansion Area at Tso Wan;
·
Looking Out
Area on the Tsing Chau Tsai headland;
·
Waterworks
Reserve to the south of Yam O; and
·
Route 10
(North Lantau Section).
7.6.3
More
detailed habitat maps showing the locations of the various Developments are
shown in Figure 7.6a-d. A discussion of the potential impacts of the
proposed Developments is presented below.
Direct
Impacts
Theme Park
(Phase I & II)
7.6.4
The Theme
Park will be largely formed on reclaimed land.
Based on the proposed project and associated works, it is estimated that
natural terrestrial habitats within the proposed Theme Park and associated
development area that would be directly affected include approximately 0.3 ha
of secondary woodland at Ngong Shuen Au, 0.7 ha of brackish wetland behind the
CLP Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant, 1.9 ha of grassland/shrubland mosaic and 0.4
ha of plantation due to the reclamation;
as well as 0.1 ha of secondary woodland at Ngong Shuen Au, 0.1 ha of
plantation and 0.4 ha of grassland/shrubland mosaic at Chok Ko Wan Tsui due to
Road P2 connecting Yam O and Theme Park (see Figure 7.6a-1 to 4 & Table
7.6a). Additionally, 11 ha of
village/orchard and wasteland would be lost due to the Theme Park
development. As the railway will be
constructed on reclaimed land and the small portal areas at both ends of the
Penny’s Bay Rail Link are wasteland and grassland/shrubland mosaic, limited
terrestrial impact will be expected due to the PBRL construction.
7.6.5
The design
of the Western Drainage Channel will retain the natural coastline of the western side of Penny’s Bay, and
therefore the backshore vegetation with some rare/restricted species will not
be affected. However, some of the
backshore vegetation below the general reclamation level +4 to +6.5 mPD at the
southern Tsing Chau Tsai headland (approximately 1 ha) and below reclamation
level +6.5 to +10 mPD near Wan Tuk at Penny’s Bay (zoned as Amenity Area,
approximately 1 ha) would be directly impacted by the reclamation works,
including the rare/restricted plant Schoenus
falcatus and Eriocaulon merrilli (see Figure 7.6a-1).
CKWLR
7.6.6
Based on
the footprint and construction areas of the current road alignment, it is
estimated that natural habitats within the alignment that would be directly
affected include approximately 1.4 ha of secondary woodland, 2 ha of tall
shrubland and 2.5 ha of grassland/shrubland mosaic at Ngong Shuen Au due to the
Yam O Interchange area; 2.6 ha of tall shrubland, 13 ha of grassland/shrubland
mosaic, 0.3 ha of brackish wetland behind the CLP Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine
Plant, 550 m of mid to upland stream along the Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant
due to the alignment across the Tsing Chau Tsai headland (see Figure 7.6b-1 to 2 & Table 7.6a).
Additionally, 6 ha of village/orchard and wasteland would be lost due to
the development.
7.6.7
The
significant potential direct impact from the CKWLR is expected on the moderate
ecological value secondary woodland habitat at Ngong Shuen Au and stream
habitats, as well as a small area where the restricted plant species Thespesia populnea was found at Pa Tau
Kwu Pak Wan.
Road
P1
7.6.8
The
proposed Road P1 would be mainly on reclaimed land along the northern coast of
east Lantau Island (Figure 7.6c). The impact due to Road P1 would be
associated mainly with the portal areas encroaching into shrubland habitats at
Yam O Tuk. A section of the road would
pass through the Eco Park at Yam Tsai in tunnel and the portal areas will
affect approximately 0.4 ha of tall shrubland and 0.4 ha of
grasslands/shrubland mosaic.
Water
Service Reservoirs
7.6.9
The main
potential source of impact associated with the proposed water service facilities
including a fresh water service reservoir, a salt water service reservoir and a
salt water pumping station to the west of Fa Peng is habitat loss resulting
from permanent landtake (refer to Figure
7.6d
). It is estimated that natural
habitats that would be directly affected include 150 m of upland stream, 0.4 ha
of secondary woodland, 1.3 ha of tall shrubland and 5.7 ha of
grasslands/shrubland mosaic. There may
be direct impact on the restricted plants Thespesia populnea (with low abundance).
Village Area
7.6.10
The
proposed village area at Tso Wan (see Figure
7.6d
)would directly
affect 0.6 ha secondary woodland, 6 ha of tall shrubland and 11 ha of
grassland/shrubland mosaic, but the exact area loss is subject to detailed
design. There may also be direct impact
on the rare plant Amorphophallus
variabilis (with low abundance). The freshwater
streams have been avoided in the stage of planning design and it is expected
that the more ecologically significant habitat such as the secondary woodland
can be avoided.
Looking Out
Area
7.6.11
There may
be a habitats fragmentation impact on the predominant grassland/shrubland mosaic on the Tsing Chau Tsai headland due to
the proposed construction of pathway/trail to the Looking Out Area (refer to Figure 7.6a-1). The protected plant Lilium brownii, with moderate
abundance, may also be directly impacted due to the construction of the
proposed Looking Out Area currently located.
Proposed Waterworks Reserve
7.6.12
The
proposed waterworks reserve including salt water and fresh water service
reservoir located to the south of Yam O would directly affect approximately 100
m freshwater stream, 8.7 ha grassland/shrubland mosaic habitat and 0.3 ha of
tall shrubland (see Figure 7.6e).
Route 10
7.6.13 The Route 10 (North Lantau section from
Tso Wan to Kwai Shek) within the NLDFS Study Area is currently the subject of a
separate investigation assignment comprising an EIA Study. Based on the Route
10 - North Lantau to Yuen Long Highway Investigation and Preliminary Design:
Southern Section EIA Report, the project would result in direct loss of approximately 0.8 ha of
secondary woodland, 8 ha of shrubland/tall shrubland and 9 ha of
grassland/shrubland mosaic and impact on the restricted plant Vitis balansaeana. No residual impact from Route 10 is expected
with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures such as woodland
planting (refer to Route 10 - North Lantau to Yuen Long
Highway Investigation and Preliminary Design: Southern Section EIA
Report).
7.6.14
The
cumulative impact as a result of habitat loss due to the NSLD is presented in Table 7.6a.
Table 7.6a - Summary of Cumulative Terrestrial
Habitat Loss (ha) within Study Area due to NSLD
Habitat/Vegetation Loss
|
Theme Park*
|
CKWLR
|
Other NSLD
|
Route 10#
|
Total
|
|
|
Yam O Interchange to Penny’s Bay
Roundabout
|
Penny’s Bay Roundabout to Route 10 Toll
Plaza
|
|
|
|
Secondary
Woodland
|
0.4
ha
|
1.4
ha
|
0
ha
|
1
ha
|
0.8
ha
|
2.8
ha
|
Tall
Shrubland
|
0
ha
|
2
ha
|
2.6
ha
|
8
ha
|
8
ha
|
12.6
ha
|
Grassland/Shrubland
Mosaic
|
2.3
ha
|
2.5
ha
|
13
ha
|
25.8
ha
|
9
ha
|
43.6
ha
|
Brackish
Wetland
|
0.7
ha
|
0
ha
|
0.3
ha
|
0
ha
|
0
ha
|
1
ha
|
Freshwater
Stream
|
0
m
|
0
m
|
550
m
|
250
m
|
0
m
|
800
m
|
Man-made habitat:
Plantation/
Wasteland/ Village/Orchard
|
1.5
ha
|
0
ha
|
6
ha
|
0
ha
|
0
ha
|
17.5
ha
|
Rare/restricted/
protected plant
|
Schoenus falcatus
and Eriocaulon merrilli at
Chok Ko Wan Tsui.
|
|
Thespesia populnea
at Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan
|
Thespesia populnea
at Fa Peng; Lilium brownii at Fa Peng Teng;
Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan.
|
Vitis balansaeana
at Kwai Shek
|
|
*
excludes CKWLR.
#
indicates the habitat loss due to Route 10 North Lantau section (refer to Route 10 - North Lantau to Yuen Long
Highway Investigation and Preliminary Design: Southern Section EIA Report).
Mitigation measures have been recommended and no residual impact is expected
from the Route 10 project.
7.6.15
The
potential impact on wildlife associated with the habitats that will be directly
loss (mainly shrubland and grassland habitats) is considered low given that the
species present are of low ecological significance and that the wildlife may be
displaced to similar habitats available in the surrounding area.
Indirect
Impacts
7.6.16
Indirect
impacts to terrestrial ecology may arise from increased human activities
associated with construction work, such as material storage and construction
site runoff, if uncontrolled. This may
disturb the habitats and the associated flora and fauna, particularly the
rare/restricted plants species Fimbristylis acuminata,Fimbristylis complanata and pitcher plant Nepenthes mirabilis behind the Cheoy Lee shipyard of Penny’s Bay, Berchemia
lineata,and Scleria
rugosa along the west coast of Penny’s Bay and
the rare Rice FishOryzias
latipes in Mong Tung
Hang stream (Figure
7.6a). There may be
fragmentation of the predominantly grassland/shrubland mosaic with concomitant
effects on wildlife movement.
7.6.17
Another
potential indirect construction impact from the Penny’s Bay reclamation is
disturbance to the locally rare White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster. As discussed in Section 7.4.2, the White-bellied Sea Eagles in Hong Kong have been
found to have certain degree of tolerance to disturbance. Noise and general disturbance effects
associated with the construction of the Penny’s Bay reclamation works, would
have low to moderate impact as quiet construction plant will be used (refer Section 4.6) for the Stage II
reclamation, and the construction activities of Theme Park Phase I and II will
be over 1 km and 500 m from Pa Tau Kwu, respectively. However it cannot be ruled out that construction activities may
lead to possible nest site abandonment or breeding failure as a worst case
result.
7.6.18
For the
Theme Park (Phase III) Extension proposal and associated infrastructure on
reclamation such as P2 and Rail Link, a planning horizon of beyond 2026 has
been tentatively set. A no development
buffer of approximately 200 m wide around the Pa Tau Kwu woodland has been
incorporated into the Draft RODP. The
construction of the Phase III developments would have a higher degree impact on
the birds than the Phase II development, given the smaller physical separation
and more construction activities in the vicinity. This will be a key issue to be addressed in the future EIA study
for this Schedule II Designated Development under the EIA Ordinance, should
there be commitment to the Theme Park (Phase III) Extension. Data from the recommended White-bellied Sea
Eagle monitoring (see Section 7.12),
for the Theme Park (Phase I and II) and associated developments Project, would
form a basis for the assessment of the Theme Park (Phase III) Extension.
7.6.19
The
indirect general noise disturbance from the CKWLR construction on the
White-bellied Sea Eagles nesting and roosting site at Pa Tau Kwu would be
limited as the works would be undertaken in a valley and topographically
screened from the Pa Tau Kwu site.
However due to tight construction work programme, blasting activities
will be required for the whole stretch of the CKWLR in the valley, which at the
nearest point is approximately 250 m from the nest site. Unmitigated noise disturbance from the
proposed blasting works may result in the
abandonment of the nesting and roosting site, or breeding failure.
7.6.20
Another
principal indirect threat to these birds of prey would be related to the
increased human access to the Project area during construction activities (not
presently represented in Pa Tau Kwu area such as possible hill fires, nest
predation or human theft of eggs or young birds.
Operational
Phase
7.6.21
The
operational ecological impacts have been assessed for the following key issues:
·
Increased human access; and
·
Theme Park operations including fireworks and
laser show.
General Increased Human Access
7.6.22
Similar to
the construction phase, after completion of the Theme Park and associated
development indirect impacts to terrestrial ecology may arise from increased
human activities resulting in an increased risk of fires which would threaten
the habitat and wildlife, and possible collecting and trampling effects on the
rare/restricted/protected species such as the Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes) in Mong Tung Hang Stream and pitcher plants(Nepenthes mirabilis)behind the
shipyard, if uncontrolled. The trail to the Looking Out Area would
increase human access to the location of restricted plants Lilium brownii and cause
disturbance to the plants. It should,
however, be noted that the Theme Park fireworks will not increase the risk of
fires as the fireworks displays are designed to return to ground within a
designated safety area within the Theme Park.
Theme Park Operations
(including fireworks and laser show)
7.6.23
In general,
there are no adverse impacts to general wildlife within the Assessment Area
since no significant nocturnal wildlife activities was recorded in the night
survey.
7.6.24
Project
operational activities have the potential to disturb the White-bellied Sea
Eagles. Disturbing influences directly
and indirectly associated with the Project may include noise/ light from
fireworks displays, laser effects in the Theme Park, light/ glare from the new
facilities, transportation noise (road, rail and sea traffic) and operational
plant noise (pumps etc.).
7.6.25
For the
Theme Park Phase I and II developments, given the physical separation from the
Pa Tau Kwu site, only the planned nightly laser show and short fireworks
displays are considered to represent the most significant potential disturbing
influence on the birds.
7.6.26
As the
lasers beam will be terminated on fixed objects within the Theme Park and no
significant nocturnal wildlife activities recorded in the night survey, the
impacts are expected to be low.
7.6.27
The current
White-bellied Sea Eagle nest site is located about 2 km from the Theme Park
Phase I low/mid level fireworks launching position and about 0.8 km from the
Theme Park Phase II low/mid level fireworks launching position. The
noise impact from Theme Park Phase I fireworks is not expected to be high due
to the long distance separation. However, the Theme Park Phase II fireworks may
result in a disturbance to the White-bellied Sea Eagles, leading to possible
site abandonment or breeding failure as a worst case result.
7.6.28
For the
Theme Park (Phase III) Extension proposal and associated infrastructure on
reclamation such as P2 and Rail Link,
an approximately 200 m wide buffer has been incorporated into the Draft
RODP to reduce the potential disturbance on the White-bellied Sea Eagle at Pa
Tau Kwu. The Theme Park (Phase III)
Extension is expected to pose higher disturbance to the birds and measures to
reduce operational noise disturbance will be required such as sound barriers
along the P2 and PBRL extension, or sensitive layout design or locating any
noisy activities farthest away from Pa Tau Kwu. This will be a key issue to be addressed in the future EIA study
for this Theme Park (Phase III) Extension, should there be commitment to
further investigation to determine the feasibility. Data from the recommended White-bellied Sea Eagle Theme Park
(Phase I and II) Project monitoring (see Section
7.12) would form a basis for the assessment of the Theme Park (Phase III)
Extension.
7.6.29
Similar to
the construction phase, increased access by humans not presently represented in
Pa Tau Kwu area may also pose an indirect threat to White-bellied Sea Eagle
such as possible hill fire, nest predation or human theft of eggs or young
birds, if uncontrolled.
Impact Evaluation
7.6.30
Potential
impacts on terrestrial ecology evaluated according to Table 1 of Annex 8 of the
EIAO TM are given in Table 7.6b-g.
Table 7.6b - Overall Impact Evaluation of
Secondary Woodland
Evaluation Criteria
|
Pa Tau Kwu
|
Other woodlands
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of secondary woodland is high.
|
The
habitat quality of secondary woodland is moderate.
|
Species
|
The
key species that would be indirectly impacted is the locally rare
White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster at the Pa Tau Kwu
secondary woodland. Potential
disturbance would result from increased human access such as fire risk or
theft of eggs or young birds, the construction of the Theme Park (Phase III)
Extension developments, blasting activities for the whole stretch of the
CKWLR which at the nearest point is approximately 250 m from the nest site,
Theme Park (Phase III) Extension operation and the Phase II fireworks
displays which may lead to possible site abandonment or breeding failure as a
worst case.
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
areas. Habitat loss would
also lead to the loss of some individuals of the restricted plant species Thespesia populnea at Fa Peng and rare
plant Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan.
|
Size/Abundance
|
No
habitat loss in Pa Tau Kwu secondary woodlands.
|
Loss
of area of the secondary woodlands at Ngong Shuen Au, Tso Wan and Fa Peng
will be approximately 1.8 ha, 0.6 ha and 0.4 ha respectively.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phase,
particularly excessive disturbance may cause abandonment of Pa Tau Kwu
secondary woodland as a breeding site by the White-bellied Sea Eagles.
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phases.
|
Reversibility
|
The
indirect impact of secondary woodlands is reversible.
|
The
impact of direct loss of secondary woodlands is irreversible.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of indirect impact on White-bellied Sea Eagle is high.
|
The
scale of habitat loss is small.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
High
|
Moderate
|
Table 7.6c - Overall Impact Evaluation of
Backshore Vegetation
Evaluation Criteria
|
Discussion
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of backshore vegetation is moderate.
|
Species
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
areas. Habitat loss would also lead
to the loss of some individuals of the rare/restricted plant species Schoenus falcatus and Eriocaulon merrilliat
Penny’s Bay and Chok Ko Wan Tsui.
|
Size/Abundance
|
Loss
of area of the backshore vegetation will be approximately 4 ha due to the
reclamation works at Penny’s Bay and Chok Ko Wan Tsui. In the present design, the construction of
Western Drainage Channel will avoid the destruction of and maintain the
natural coastline in the west side of Penny’s Bay, the backshore vegetation
and the rare/restricted would not be affected.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phases.
|
Reversibility
|
The
impact of direct loss of backshore vegetation is irreversible.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of habitat loss is small in the context of the surrounding similar
habitats.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
Moderate
|
Table 7.6d - Overall Impact Evaluation ofBrackish Wetland
Evaluation Criteria
|
Discussion
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of brackish wetland is low.
|
Species
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
areas.
|
Size/Abundance
|
Loss
of area of the brackish wetland will be approximately 1 ha.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phase.
|
Reversibility
|
The
impact of direct loss of brackish wetland is irreversible.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of habitat loss is small.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
Low
|
Table 7.6e - Overall Impact Evaluation ofTall Shrubland
Evaluation Criteria
|
Discussion
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of tall shrubland is low.
|
Species
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
areas. The restricted plant species Scleria lithosperma, at Fa Peng may be
indirectly affected.
|
Size/Abundance
|
Loss
of area of the tall shrubland will be approximately 12.6 ha.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phases.
|
Reversibility
|
The
impact of direct loss of tall shrubland is irreversible. The habitat is readily re-created and will
recover easily.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of habitat loss is small in the context of the surrounding similar
habitats.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
Low
|
Table 7.6f - Overall Impact Evaluation ofGrassland/Shrubland Mosaic and Other
habitats
Evaluation Criteria
|
Discussion
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of grassland/shrubland mosaic, plantation and wasteland are
low.
|
Species
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
areas. Habitat loss would also lead
to the loss of some individuals of protected plant Lilium brownii at Fa Peng Teng, if uncontrolled.
|
Size/Abundance
|
Approximately
43.6 ha of grassland/shrubland mosaic, 0.5 ha of plantation and 17.5 ha of
wasteland will be lost.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phase.
|
Reversibility
|
The
impact of direct loss of grassland/shrubland mosaic is irreversible. The habitat is readily re-created and will
recover easily.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of habitat loss is small in the context of the surrounding similar
habitats.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
Low
|
Table 7.6g - Overall Impact Evaluation ofFreshwater Stream
Evaluation Criteria
|
Fa Peng/ Yam O Tuk/ behind CLP Penny’s
Bay Gas Turbine Plant
|
Mong Tung Hang
|
Habitat
quality
|
The
habitat quality of the streams are moderate.
|
The
habitat quality of the streams are moderate.
|
Species
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
stream.
|
There
may be potential direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the
stream. The development may disturb rare rice fishOryzias latipes
in Mong Tung Hang stream, if uncontrolled.
|
Size/Abundance
|
Approximately
150 m, 100 m and 550 m of natural stream at Fa Peng, Yam O Tuk and behind CLP
Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant will be lost due to construction.
|
No
habitat loss in Mong Tung Hang stream.
|
Duration
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phase.
|
The
duration of impact will persist during construction and operation phase.
|
Reversibility
|
The
impact of direct loss of lower section stream is irreversible.
|
The
indirect impact is reversible.
|
Magnitude
|
The
scale of habitat loss and impact is moderate.
|
The
scale of impact is low.
|
Overall
impact conclusion
|
Moderate
|
Low
|
7.6.31
Overall the
potential ecological impact due to the proposed NLDFS developments is not
expected to be high because most of the habitats impacted (such as the
predominant grassland/shrubland) are generally of low ecological importance.
7.6.32
The
freshwater stream at Fa Peng, Yam O Tuk and behind the CLP Penny’s Bay Gas
Turbine Plant, backshore vegetation and secondary woodlands has moderate impact
due to the proposed Development.
7.6.33
Certain
individuals of the rare/restricted/protected plant species may be lost
including Thespesia populnea at Fa
Peng and Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan, Lilium
brownii at Fa Peng Teng,Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan, Eriocaulon merrilli at Penny’s Bay, and
Schoenus falcatus at Penny’s Bay and
Chok Ko Wan Tsui.
7.6.34
The
potential indirect ecological impact to the locally rare White-bellied Sea
Eagles Haliaeetus leucogaster is expected to be high due
to the unavoidable noise disturbance.
7.7.1
As
discussed in the previous section, major impact would be related to loss of
secondary woodlands at Ngong Shuen Au, backshore vegetation and indirect impact
to the White-bellied Sea Eagle at Pa Tau Kwu and Rice Fish at Mong Tung Hang
Stream. The following mitigation
measures in relation to compensating woodland and stream habitat loss and
minimising impact on species of ecological interest, as well as good
construction practice to minimise disturbance to the surrounding environment,
are recommended below. In accordance
with the EIAO TM, the hierarchy for ecological mitigation (first avoidance of
impact, then minimisation of impact, then compensation of impact), has been
adopted where appropriate.
Habitat/Vegetation
Loss
·
Design the proposed Village Expansion Area at
Tso Wan to avoid and minimize impact on the secondary woodland, natural stream
habitats and the rare plant Amorphophallus variabilis(see Figure
7.4a for location).
·
Provide secondary woodland planting to
compensate for the approximate loss of 2.2 ha of the woodlands (it comprised
1.4 ha loss due to the CKWLR) at Ngong Shuen Au (approximately 1.8 ha) and Fa
Peng (approximately 0.4 ha) which cannot be avoided by the Development (in the
worst case and excluded the impacts from Route 10). An area of not less than 7
ha of woodland planting are proposed on the adjacent hill side to the east of
Ngong Shuen Au (see Section 13),
sufficient compensation will be provided.
Species used for planting should take reference from the species
identified in the Tree Survey and be native to Hong Kong or South China region. Woodland compensation planting for the small
area of secondary woodland at Fa Peng affected by Route 10 will be provided by
the highway project (the Route 10 EIA Final Assessment Report (Southern
Section) refers).
·
Design the Western Drainage Channel of the Stage
I Penny’s Bay Reclamation to retain the natural coastline and avoid impact on
the backshore vegetation so as the
associated locally restricted, rare or protected plant species present within
the Assessment Area, including the plant Berchemia
lineata and Scleria rugosa (see Figure 7.4a for location).
·
Adjust development/construction area to
avoid/minimize direct impact on the locally restricted, rare or protected plant
species present within the Study Area, including the plant Thespesia populnea at Fa Peng and Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan, Eriocaulon
merrilli at Penny’s Bay,
and Schoenus falcatus at Penny’s Bay and Chok Ko Wan Tsui (see
Figure 7.4a for location). If avoidance of these plant species is not
possible, transplanting of affected individuals should be undertaken, before
the works start, to similar habitats in the immediate vicinity, as a last resort.
A detailed vegetation survey of these affected areas should be undertaken at
the Detailed Design stage to identify the individuals of the concerned species,
as a basis for details of design refinement and transplanting
requirements. Since the growth form of
the Schoenus falcatus and Eriocaulon
merrilli required for transplantation is herb, the whole
plants with their inhabited soil can be relocated to suitable habitat
directly. All the individuals of the
species should be relocated. Seeds of
the target species are recommended to collect so as to preserve the genetic
resource and allow more source plant to transplant in case of the failure of
transplantation. The seeds should be
collected and preserved or germinated appropriately by qualified botanist and
institution respectively. Sze Pak Wan
is the only, nearest and suitable site for the transplantation, however, it is
small and may have not enough suitable habitats for transplantation. When the available sites in Sze Pak Wan
being fully occupied, South-east Chi Ma Wan Peninsular (Lantau) are other
recommended sites for transplantation.
Only certain individuals and part of the habitat of Thespesia populnea would
be affected when avoidance of these plant species is not
possible, transplanting all the affected individuals to adjacent areas can be
undertaken for the mitigation.
·
Design the trails, lookout areas, landscape
plantings in the Countryside Conservation Area on the Tsing Chau Tsai headland
to avoid the identified plant species of ecological interest including Lilium
brownii, as well as their required habitats.
Stream
Habitat
·
Avoid any development, particularly the trails
connecting Mong Tung Hang to lookout areas on Fa Peng Teng, to affect the
natural Mong Tung Hang Stream, particularly the lower stream section where the
locally rare Rice Fish was recorded.
·
Design the proposed Water Service Reservoirs and
Waterworks reserve at Yam O Tuk to avoid the freshwater stream course.
·
Design and construct 220 m long drainage
channels along the CKWLR to mimic natural streams to compensate for the
unavoidable loss of stream courses due to the CKWLR construction (see Figure 7.7a for location). The created stream courses should have
natural substrate so as to provide suitable habitats for the colonization of
stream invertebrates. The stream
habitats will be restored partly by natural silting due to flow from upper
stream. Selected substratum should
resemble the existing stream conditions and large granite boulders may be
placed at the upstream section so that these boulders will be weathered
naturally to smaller pebbles and fine particles, forming natural stream
substrate.
White-bellied
Sea Eagle
General
7.7.2
Prohibit
construction workers access to the nesting site of White-bellied Sea Eagles at
Pa Tau Kwu secondary woodland through warning and regular audit by Site
Engineer, and fence off the public land access from the development areas.
·
Schedule
CKWLR blasting activities, within 500 m from the nesting site in the Pa Tau Kwu
woodland, outside the White-bellied Sea Eagles breeding period (generally
October to April).
Theme Park Phase I & II
·
Use quietened construction plant and equipment
for Penny’s Bay Stage II reclamation (refer Section
4).
·
Locate Theme Park fireworks launching site as
far away from the nesting site as possible. However, it was considered not
practicable for the Phase II launching site to locate elsewhere due to the
constraints on the Theme Park design pertaining to guest safety. The launch sites for the Theme Park Phase I
and Phase II are located approximately 2 km and 0.8 km from Pa Tau Kwu. A cantilevered noise barrier was considered
as a potential mitigation measure to screen the fireworks noise from the
White-bellied Sea Eagles nest but was considered not practicable as it will
introduce temporary noisy construction disturbance in close proximity to the
nesting site, and such structure will be large and instrusive, and may block
the flight path and additionally may undermine the commanding position of the
nesting site.
Theme Park (Phase III) Extension
·
Schedule noisy construction activities,
particularly the reclamation filling and building works, within 500 m from the
nesting site in the Pa Tau Kwu woodland, outside the White-bellied Sea Eagles
breeding period (generally October to April).
·
Protect the Pa Tau Kwu secondary woodland area
where the pair of White-bellied Sea Eagles are present from Theme Park (Phase
III) Extension. The Pa Tau Kwu area has
been zoned Conservation Area in the Draft RODP (see Figure 7.7b), with a buffer area comprising an open area of water
bodies of approximately 10 ha surrounding the woodland area to prevent any
close disturbance from development within 200 m.
·
Use quietened construction plant and equipment
for Theme Park (Phase III) Extension reclamation (refer Section 4).
·
Build 3 m height cantilevered noise barriers in
the section/area of the Road P2 and PBRL extension near to the Pa Tau Kwu nest
site (see Figure 7.7b), to reduce the
noise disturbance from operation traffic.
·
Design layout to minimise operational noise
disturbance from Theme Park or other recreational use.
Construction
Practice
·
Use sediment traps and stilling ponds to
minimise potential sedimentation impact on natural streams.
·
Erect fences where practical along the boundary
of construction sites before the commencement of works to prevent tipping,
vehicle movements, and encroachment of personnel into adjacent areas,
particularly where the rare/protected species, such as locally rare rice fishOryzias latipes
in Mong Tung Hang stream, White-bellied Sea Eagles Haliaeetus leucogaster at
Pa Tau Kwu woodland, Scleria lithosperma
at Fa Peng,
Fimbristylis acuminata,Fimbristylis
complanata and Pitcher plant Nepenthes
mirabilis behind the Cheoy Lee shipyard are located.
·
Reinstate temporary work sites/disturbed areas
to its original conditions immediately after completion of the construction.
·
Select haul routes, storage and works areas etc.
to avoid or minimize disturbance to ecological significant areas (refer to Figure 7.4a).
·
Check the work site boundaries regularly to
ensure that are not exceeded and that no damage occurs to surrounding natural
habitats.
·
Prohibit and prevent open fires within the work
site boundary during construction and provide temporary fire fighting equipment
in the work areas.
·
Ensure no access for site workers or delivery of
machinery from Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan and Pa Tau Kwu Nam Wan.
7.8.1
The
potential sources of terrestrial ecological impact arising from the CKWLR is
also covered in Section 7.5.
7.9.1
The
assessment of the environmental impacts associated with CKWLR is covered in Section 7.6.
7.10.1
The
mitigation of the terrestrial ecological impact arising from the CKWLR is
covered in Section 7.7.
7.11.1
With the
implementation of the mitigation measures recommended above, there may still be
residual terrestrial ecological impacts associated with the NSLD.
7.11.2
Although
construction disturbance effects (e.g. noise), particularly those from the
CKWLR and Theme Park (Phase III) Extension works, could potentially be
controlled such that disturbance to the White-bellied Sea Eagles at Pa Tau Kwu
woodland would be minimised, abandonment of the nest site as result of
operational disturbances could not be ruled out as a worst case scenario. However the White-bellied Sea Eagles should
be able to find suitable alternative nesting sites, such as the remote Tang
Lung Chau or Kau Yi Chau (with previous record of White-bellied Sea Eagles
breeding but the nest sites have been abandoned), Southeast Lantau, or Sunshine Island with woodland areas, should
they abandon the nesting site at the Pa Tau Kwu.
7.11.3
Fresh water
stream habitats have been avoided (approximately 100 m Yam O stream) and
compensated for as far as practicable.
The net loss of approximately 480 m of low to moderate value upper
stream courses after mitigation is a residual impact considered to be
acceptable given the presence of similar habitats in the Tsing Chau Tsai
headland.
7.11.4
The 7 ha of
woodland compensation planting will adequately compensate the loss of 2.2 ha of
secondary woodland. Transplanting of
impacted individuals of the rare, restricted or protected plant Thespesia populnea, Amorphophallus variabilis,Eriocaulon merrilli and
Schoenus falcatus should be
undertaken to minimise their unavoidable any direct loss. For the other habitat types impacted, given
their low ecological importance, the residual impact is considered minimal.
Introduction
7.12.1
The
implementation of the recommended mitigation measures in Section 7.7 and 7.10
should be monitored and audited during detailed design, construction and
operation stages.
7.12.2
A specific
monitoring programme for the White-bellied Sea Eagles on Pa Tau Kwu, and the
impacted rare/restricted/protected plant Thespesia
populnea, Eriocaulon merrilli and
Schoenus falcatus are recommended for
CKWLR and NLDFS. The monitoring field
work should be undertaken by an avian specialist and botanist with at least
three years of local experience in ecological monitoring, respectively. See Project EM & A Manual for details.
White-bellied
Sea Eagles
Baseline
7.12.3
Monitoring
should be undertaken for 3 months (February-April 2000) prior to commencement
of works, and should have as its primary focus, providing the baseline data on
the White-bellied Sea Eagles on Pa Tau Kwu, to establish whether or not the
White-bellied Sea Eagles are still present and their activities on Pa Tau Kwu
before the reclamation works start.
7.12.4
Field
surveys should be at a frequency of a whole day period once or twice per month
depending on breeding activity period or not, respectively. The field surveys should be evenly spread
over the duration of the monitoring programme.
Information should be collected on behaviour, breeding activity, and responses to any disturbances.
Monitoring During Construction
7.12.5
During
NLDFS and CKWLR construction, field surveys should be at a frequency of twice
per month during periods of breeding activity (October to April), and once per
month at other times of the year. The
field surveys should be evenly spread over the duration of the monitoring
programme. Information should be
collected on behaviour, breeding activity, and any responses to
disturbances. Any disturbance of the
breeding pair should be examined in conjunction with the construction noise monitoring and other events related to the
works.
7.12.6
A simple
Event and Action Plan is recommended in Table
7.12a. This plan assumes that the
White-bellied Sea Eagles are seldom absent from their territory on Pa Tau Kwu
and this will be verified during the baseline monitoring.
Table 7.12a - Event and Action Plan During
Construction
Event
|
Action
|
|
Environmental Manager (EM)
|
Contractor
|
Absence
of White-bellied Sea Eagle during whole day monitoring period
|
1. Increase
monitoring to daily frequency
|
1.
Check all construction actions and working methods
|
|
2.
Notify Site Engineer
|
2.
Submit proposals for remedial actionto prevent theWhite-bellied Sea Eagles abandoning the existing nesting
site
|
|
3.
If absence persists, review construction activities, within 1 km from nest
site, of previous week
|
3.
Implement remedial action
|
|
4.
Identify any changes in construction activities, within 1 km from nest site,
in previous week
|
4.
Liaise with EM regarding effectiveness of remedial actions
|
|
5.
Discuss remedial actions with Site Engineer such as adjustment of
construction method
|
|
Monitoring During Operation
7.12.7
During
operation of Theme Park (Phase I and II), field surveys for the first two years
should be at a frequency of twice per month during periods of breeding
activity, and once per month at other times of the year. The field surveys should be evenly spread
over the duration of the monitoring programme.
Information should be collected on behaviour, breeding activity, and any
responses to disturbances. Any disturbance
of the White-bellied Sea Eagles should be examined in conjunction with the
fireworks noise monitoring and other events related to the operation of Theme
Park (Phase I and II).
7.12.8
A simple
Event and Action Plan is recommended in Table
7.9b. This plan assumes that the
White-bellied Sea Eagles are seldom absent from their territory on Pa Tau Kwu
and this will be verified during the baseline and construction monitoring.
Table 7.12b - Event and Action Plan During
Operation
Event
|
Action
|
|
Environmental Manager (EM)
|
Theme Park Operator
|
Absence
of White-bellied Sea Eagle during whole day monitoring period
|
1. Increase
monitoring to daily frequency
|
1.
Check all operation actions
|
|
2.
Notify Theme Park Operator
|
2.
Submit proposals for remedial action to prevent the White-bellied Sea Eagles
abandoning the existing nesting site
|
|
3.
If absence persists, review operation activities of previous week
|
3.
Implement remedial action
|
|
4.
Identify any changes in operation activities in previous week
|
4.
Liaise with EM regarding effectiveness of remedial actions
|
|
5.
Discuss remedial actions with Theme Park Operator
|
|
Rare/Restricted/Protected
Plant
7.12.9
Once the
affected individual of the rare/restricted/protected plant Thespesia populnea, Eriocaulon
merrilli and Schoenus falcatus
are transplanted to the selected sites (see Section
7.7.1) before the works start, three years of monthly monitoring will be
required to check the performance and health condition of the plants and to
ensure no adverse effect on the plants.
The field monitoring should be evenly spread over the duration of the
monitoring programme. A remedial action
should be undertaken for any unsuccessful transplantation, e.g. the seed stocks
of the herbal species Eriocaulon merrilli
and Schoenus falcatus could be used
for second trial on the same site or other suitable site depending on the
reasons of first trial failure.
Conclusion
7.12.10
The major
habitat types within the Study Area comprises secondary woodland, tall
shrubland, grassland/shrubland mosaic, brackish/freshwater wetland,
village/orchard, wasteland, plantation, freshwater streams, as well as
backshore vegetation. The field surveys
which have been undertaken indicate that the grassland/shrubland mosaic, which
are typical of similar habitats elsewhere in Hong Kong, are the main habitat
type. The identified secondary
woodland, backshore vegetation and freshwater stream habitats are considered to
have moderate to high ecological value, and all the others habitats a low
value.
7.12.11
Five plant
species with ecological interest may be affected by the proposed Development
and CKWLR, includingThespesia
populnea at Fa Peng and
Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan, Lilium
brownii at Fa Peng Teng,Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan, Eriocaulon merrilli
at Penny’s Bay and Schoenus falcatus
at Penny’s Bay and Chok Ko Wan Tsui.
Two locally rare faunal species have been recorded in the Study Area:
the Rice Fish (Oryzias latipes) in
the lower Mong Tung Hang Stream and the White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) in the Pa Tau Kwu woodland.
7.12.12
The
proposed developments associated with the NSLD and CKWLR will generally lead to
a loss of low ecological value terrestrial habitats with low ecological
impact. Mitigation measures for the
development are recommended to avoid or reduce the potential impacts on the
secondary woodlands, backshore vegetation, natural streams,
rare/restricted/protected plant species, Rice Fish and White-bellied Sea
Eagle. Woodland planting, stream
habitat creation is recommended to compensate for the loss of secondary
woodland and freshwater stream habitats.
7.12.13
Construction
disturbance effects (e.g. noise), particularly those from the CKWLR and Theme
Park (Phase III) Extension works, could potentially be controlled such that
disturbance to the White-bellied Sea Eagles at the Pa Tau Kwu woodland would be
minimised, and the Theme Park fireworks displays would be located as far away
from the nesting site as possible to minimize potential disturbance,
abandonment of the nest site as result of operational disturbances could not be
ruled out as a worst case scenario.
However the White-bellied Sea Eagles should be able to find suitable
alternative nesting sites, such as the remote Tang Lung Chau and Kau Yi Chau
(with previous record of White-bellied Sea Eagles breeding but the nest sites
have been abandoned), Southeast Lantau,
or Sunshine Island with woodland areas, should they abandon the nesting site at
the Pa Tau Kwu.
7.12.14
A summary
of impact prediction, mitigation measures and residual impacts associated with
the proposed NLDFS was shown in Table
7.13a.
Table 7.12a - Summary of Major Ecological Impacts
for NLDFS
Issue
|
Construction Impact
|
Operational Impact
|
Theme Park (Exclude CKWLR)
|
Potential
Impacts
|
Loss of
approximately 0.4 ha of secondary woodland at Ngong Shuen Au, 2.3 ha of
grassland/shrubland mosaic and 0.7 ha of brackish wetland;
Loss of rare plant Eriocaulon merrilliand
Schoenus falcatus;
Indirect impact,
particularly noise disturbance, to the locally rare White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster at Pa Tau Kwu secondary woodland;
Indirect impact to
rare/restricted plants species Fimbristylis acuminata,Fimbristylis complanata and pitcher plant Nepenthes mirabilis behind the Cheoy Lee shipyard of Penny’s Bay, Berchemia lineata
and Scleria rugosa along the west
coast of Penny’s Bayand therare Rice FishOryzias latipes
in Mong Tung Hang stream.
|
Indirect impact,
particularly noise disturbance due to night-time Theme Park operations
(including fireworks and laser show), to the locally rare White-bellied Sea
Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster;
|
Mitigation
|
Compensatory woodland
planting on the adjacent hill side to the east of Ngong Shuen Au;
Use quietened
construction plant and equipment for Penny’s Bay Stage II and Stage III
reclamation;
Schedule noisy
construction activities, particularly CKWLR blasting activities, the
reclamation filling and building works, within 500 m from the nesting site in
the Pa Tau Kwu woodland, outside the White-bellied Sea Eagles breeding period
(generally October to April);
Protect the Pa Tau
Kwu secondary woodland area where the pair of White-bellied Sea Eagles are
present from Theme Park (Phase III) Extension. The Pa Tau Kwu area has been zoned Conservation Area in the
RODP, with a buffer area comprising an open area of water body of
approximately 10 ha surrounding the woodland area to prevent any close
disturbance from development within 200 m;
Prohibit
construction workers access to the nesting site of White-bellied Sea Eagles
at Pa Tau Kwu secondary woodland through warning and regular audit by Site
Engineer, and fence off the public land access from the development areas;
|
Locate Theme Park
fireworks launching site as far away from the nesting site as possible.
However, it was considered not practicable for the Phase II launching site to
locate elsewhere due to the constraints on the Theme Park design pertaining
to guest safety. The launch site for
the Theme Park Phase I is located approximately 2 km from Pa Tau Kwu;
Build 3 m height
cantilevered noise barriers in the section/area of the Road P2 and Rail Link
near to the Pa Tau Kwu nest site, to reduce the noise disturbance from
operation traffic.
|
|
Adjust
development/ construction area to avoid/minimize direct impact on the locally
restricted, rare or protected plant species.
If avoidance of these plant species is not possible, transplanting of
affected individuals should be undertaken;
|
|
|
Erect
fences where practical along the boundary of construction sites before the
commencement of works to prevent tipping, vehicle movements, and encroachment
of personnel into adjacent areas, particularly where the rare/protected
species, are located;
Reinstate
temporary work sites/disturbed areas to its original conditions immediately
after completion of the construction;
Select
haul routes, storage and works areas etc. to avoid or minimize disturbance to
ecological significant areas (refer to Figure
7.4a);
Check the work site
boundaries regularly to ensure that are not exceeded and that no damage
occurs to surrounding natural habitats;
|
|
|
Prohibit
and prevent open fires within the work site boundary during construction and
provide temporary fire fighting equipment in the work areas;
Ensure no access for
site workers or delivery of machinery from Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan and Pa Tau Kwu
Nam Wan.
|
|
Residual
Impacts
|
With the implementation of the
recommended mitigation measures, no significant residual impact are expected,
however, abandonment of the nest by the White-bellied Sea Eagle can not be
ruled out.
|
In the worst case of abandonment of the
White-bellied Sea Eagle from their nest during operation, possible suitable
habitat and nesting sites are available in the vicinity of the Assessment
Area and thus no residual impact is predicted.
|
Environmental
Acceptability
|
No
significant adverse residual impacts.
|
No
significant adverse residual impacts.
|
Chok Ko Wan Link Road
|
Potential
Impacts
|
Loss of
approximately 1.4 ha of secondary woodland, 4.6 ha of tall shrubland and 15.5
ha of grassland/shrubland mosaic and 550 m of mid to upland stream behind the
Penny’s Bay Gas Turbine Plant due to the alignment across the Tsing Chau Tsai
headland;
There may be direct
impact on the restricted plants Thespesia populnea;
|
|
|
The
indirect general noise disturbance from the CKWLR construction on the
White-bellied Sea Eagles nesting and roosting site at Pa Tau Kwu would be
limited as the works would be undertaken in a valley and topographically
screened from the Pa Tau Kwu site.
However due to tight construction work programme, blasting activities
will be required for the whole stretch of the CKWLR in the valley, which at
the nearest point is approximately 250 m from the nest site. Unmitigated noise disturbance from the
proposed blasting works may result in the
abandonment of the nesting and roosting site, or breeding failure.
|
|
Mitigation
|
Compensatory
woodland planting on the adjacent hill side to the east of Ngong Shuen Au;
Adjust development/
construction area to avoid/minimize direct impact on the locally restricted,
rare or protected plant species. If
avoidance of these plant species is not possible, transplanting of affected individuals
should be undertaken;
Design and construct
220 m long drainage channels along the CKWLR to mimic natural streams to
compensate for the unavoidable loss of stream courses due to the CKWLR
construction;
Use
sediment traps and stilling ponds to minimise potential sedimentation impact
on natural streams;
Erect
fences where practical along the boundary of construction sites before the
commencement of works to prevent tipping, vehicle movements, and encroachment
of personnel into adjacent areas, particularly where the rare/protected
species are located; Reinstate temporary work sites/disturbed areas to its
original conditions immediately after completion of the construction;
Select
haul routes, storage and works areas etc. to avoid or minimize disturbance to
ecological significant areas;
|
|
|
Check
the work site boundaries regularly to ensure that are not exceeded and that
no damage occurs to surrounding natural habitats;
Prohibit
and prevent open fires within the work site boundary during construction and
provide temporary fire fighting equipment in the work areas;
Ensure
no access for site workers or delivery of machinery from Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan
and Pa Tau Kwu Nam Wan.
|
|
Residual
Impacts
|
Fresh
water stream habitats have been avoided and compensated for as far as
practicable, there will be a residual loss of approximately 430 m of low to
moderate value upper stream courses..
|
|
Environmental
Acceptability
|
No significant
adverse residual impacts.
|
|
Other NSLD
|
|
|
Potential
Impacts
|
Loss of
approximately 1 ha of secondary woodland, 8 ha of tall shrubland, 25.8 ha of
grassland/shrubland mosaic and 250 m of freshwater stream;
Loss of
rare/restricted plant Amorphophallus variabilis at Tso Wan
Thespesia populnea at Fa Peng and
Lilium brownii at Fa Peng Teng;
Indirect impact to
rare/restricted plants species Fimbristylis acuminata,Fimbristylis complanata and pitcher plant Nepenthes mirabilis behind the Cheoy Lee shipyard of Penny’s Bay, and therare Rice FishOryzias latipes in Mong Tung Hang
stream.
|
|
Mitigation
|
Compensatory
woodland planting on the adjacent hill side to the east of Ngong Shuen Au;
Design
the proposed Village Expansion Area at Tso Wan to avoid and minimize impact
on the secondary woodland, natural stream habitats and the rare plant Amorphophallus variabilis;
Design
the trails, lookout areas, landscape plantings in the Countryside
Conservation Area on the Tsing Chau Tsai headland to avoid the identified
plant species of ecological interest including Lilium brownii,
as well as their required habitats;
Design
the proposed Water Service Reservoirs and Waterworks reserve at Yam O Tuk to
avoid the freshwater stream course;
|
|
|
Avoid
any development, particularly the trails connecting Mong Tung Hang to lookout
areas on Fa Peng Teng, to affect the natural Mong Tung Hang Stream,
particularly the lower stream section where the locally rare Rice Fish was
recorded;
Use
sediment traps and stilling ponds to minimise potential sedimentation impact
on natural streams;
Erect
fences where practical along the boundary of construction sites before the
commencement of works to prevent tipping, vehicle movements, and encroachment
of personnel into adjacent areas, particularly where the rare/protected
species are located;
Reinstate
temporary work sites/disturbed areas to its original conditions immediately
after completion of the construction;
Select
haul routes, storage and works areas etc. to avoid or minimize disturbance to
ecological significant areas;
Check
the work site boundaries regularly to ensure that are not exceeded and that
no damage occurs to surrounding natural habitats;
Prohibit
and prevent open fires within the work site boundary during construction and
provide temporary fire fighting equipment in the work areas;
Ensure no access for
site workers or delivery of machinery from Pa Tau Kwu Pak Wan and Pa Tau Kwu
Nam Wan.
|
|
Residual
Impacts
|
No
residual impacts identified.
|
|
Environmental
Acceptability
|
No
significant adverse residual impacts.
|
|
The
cost estimated for the proposed mitigation for NLDFS is approximately
HK$5,625,000.
|