|
Proposed Comprehensive Development at Wo Shang Wai, Yuen Long |
Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (MMHK) has been commissioned by the Contractor, Heng Shung Construction Co. Ltd., to undertake the Environmental Team (ET) services to carry out environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) for both pre-construction and construction phases of the Proposed Comprehensive Development at Wo Shang Wai, Yuen Long. From August 2016, the Project Proponent, Profit Point Enterprises Limited, commissioned MMHK to continue the ET services.
This is the 113th EM&A report submitted under the Condition 4.5 of Environmental Permit No. EP-311/2008/E. This report summarises the findings on EM&A during the period from 1 to 30 September 2019.
Exceedance of Action and Limit Levels
There was no breach of Action or Limit levels for Air Quality (1-hr TSP and 24-hr TSP) and Noise level (as Leq) in the reporting month.
During September 2019, a total of two Action Level and one Limit Level exceedances were observed. Two Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6 and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4.
Implementation of Mitigation Measures
Site audits were carried out on 6, 12, 19 and 26 September 2019 to confirm the implementation measures undertaken by the Contractor in the reporting month. The outcomes are presented in Section 6 and the status of implementation of mitigation measures in the site is shown in Appendix L.
Record of Complaints
There was no record of complaints received in the reporting month.
The major site works scheduled to be commissioned in the coming three months include regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area including lowering of the water level and removal of unwanted species in the pond). No major construction works will be carried out. Potential environmental impacts due to the activities, including air quality, noise, water quality, ecology and landscape and visual, will be monitored.
Environmental mitigation measures will be
implemented on site as recommended and weekly site audits will be carried out
to ensure that the environmental conditions are acceptable.
1
Introduction
1.1 Introduction
In March 2005, the Project Proponent, Profit Point Enterprises Limited, acquired the development site at Wo Shang Wai in Yuen Long. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was then carried out and approved under the EIA Ordinance (EIAO), and the Environmental Permit (EP-311/2008) for construction of the comprehensive development in Wo Shang Wai was first granted by EPD on 9 September 2008 and has been subsequently varied, with the current version (EP-311/2008/E) issued by EPD on 19 December 2017.
The Project involves the residential development and associated infrastructure and wetland restoration area and linear landscape area. The construction works under the Environmental Permit commenced on 12 May 2010. The site formation construction works of the Wetland Restoration Area (hereafter WRA) were completed on 15 November 2010 and the WRA was established by October 2012, within 30 months from the commencement of construction as stipulated in the EP. This indicated that planting works as scheduled in the approved Wetland Restoration and Creation Scheme (WRCS; Nov 2009) were complete, except along the western and southern boundary where the planting is affected by the existing site boundary and noise barrier, and for which a Variation to Environmental Permit (EP-311/2008/C) to defer planting at the location was approved. Consequently, EP (EP-311/2008/D) including specific mitigation measures to minimise certain identified noise impacts during the operation phase was approved. The current valid EP (EP-311/2008/E) comprises varied conditions for the implementation and maintenance of visual and landscape measures, and for the implementation of noise mitigation measures.
Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (MMHK) has been commissioned by the Contractor, Heng Shung Construction Co. Ltd., to undertake the Environmental Team (ET) services to carry out environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) for both pre-construction and construction phases of the Proposed Comprehensive Development at Wo Shang Wai, Yuen Long. From August 2016, the Project Proponent, Profit Point Enterprises Limited, commissioned MMHK to continue the ET services.
According to the EP Condition 4.5, the monthly EM&A Report shall be submitted to the Director within two weeks after the end of the reporting month. This report summarises the findings during the period from 1 to 30 September 2019.
1.2 Project Organization
The organisation chart and lines of communication with respect to the on-site environmental management structure together with the contact information of the key personnel are shown in Appendix A.
1.3 Environmental Status in the
reporting period
During the reporting month, construction works of the Project undertaken include:
● General site maintenance work
● Regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area (including lowering of the water level and removal of unwanted species in the pond)
There were no major construction works carried out. The general layout plan of the Project site is shown in Figure 1.1.
1.4 Summary of EM&A Requirements
The EM&A programme requires environmental monitoring of air quality, noise, water quality, ecology and landscape and visual as specified in the approved EM&A Manual.
A summary of impact EM&A requirements is presented in Table 1.1 below:
Table 1.1: Summary of Impact EM&A Requirements
|
Parameters |
Descriptions |
Locations |
Frequencies |
|
Air Quality |
24-Hour TSP |
ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3, ASR4 |
Once every 6 days |
|
1-Hour TSP |
ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3, ASR4 |
3 times every 6 days |
|
|
Noise |
Leq(30min), L90, L10 (dB(A)) |
NSR1, NSR3, NSR5, NSR7 |
Weekly |
|
Water Quality |
Dissolved Oxygen (DO), temperature, pH, suspended solids (SS) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) |
MP1 to MP6 |
3 days per week |
|
Ecology |
Birds |
Within the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m |
Weekly |
|
Dragonflies and Butterflies |
Within the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m |
Once per month during Mar and Sep to Nov, and twice per month during Apr to Aug |
|
|
Herpetofauna |
Within the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m |
Day-time: Once per month during Apr to Nov Night-time: Once per month during Mar to Aug |
|
|
Water quality of Wetland Restoration Area (WRA) |
WRA |
After filling of WRA with water, monthly for in situ water quality and every six months (end of wet season and end of dry season) for laboratory testing |
|
|
Site Inspections |
Within the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m |
Weekly |
|
|
Landscape and Visual |
Auditing of protection of existing trees, the transplanting of existing trees, the creation of new wetland, the planting of new trees and shrubs and other landscape and visual mitigation measures |
CM1 to CM10 and OM1 to OM7 within the Project Area |
Site inspections once every two weeks during construction phase; once every two months during operational phase |
The Environmental Quality Performance Limits for air quality, noise and water quality are shown in Appendix C.
The Event and Action Plan for air quality, noise, water quality and Landscape & Visual are shown in Appendix D.
The monitoring schedule for the reporting month is shown in Table 1.2 as follows.
Table 1.2: Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Reporting Month
2 Impact Monitoring Methodology
2.1 Introduction
For air quality, construction noise and water quality, ecology, landscape and visual monitoring methodology, including the monitoring locations, monitoring equipment used, monitoring parameters, and frequency and duration, etc., are detailed in this Chapter.
2.2 Air Quality
2.2.1 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
In accordance with the EM&A Manual, 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels monitoring are to be conducted during the construction phase. Table 2.1 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of air quality monitoring.
Table 2.1: Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations |
Parameter |
Frequency and Duration |
|
ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3 & ASR4 |
24-hour TSP |
At least once in every six-days |
|
1-hour TSP |
3 times every six-days |
2.2.2 Monitoring Locations
The four air quality monitoring stations were established in the EM&A manual and were slightly adjusted during the baseline monitoring phase. Locations of the agreed air quality monitoring stations are listed in Table 2.2 and as shown in Figure 2.1.
Table 2.2: Air Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Stations |
Locations |
|
ASR1 |
Guard house outside House No. 1, Ventura Avenue, Royal Palms* |
|
ASR2A |
At the rooftop of refuse collection point, which is located at the southwest of the project area |
|
ASR3 |
At the commercial centre at Palm Springs, which is located at the south of the project area |
|
ASR4 |
Outside works site entrance* |
*Note: Relocation of ASR1 and ASR4 were from 5 June 2018 as the previous locations will be subject to upcoming construction works. All monitoring data at ASR1 and ASR4 from June 2018 is measured at the new monitoring locations.
2.2.3 Monitoring Equipment
Continuous 24-hour TSP air quality monitoring is conducted using High Volume Sampler (HVS) (Model: GMWS-2310 Accu-vol). The HVS meets all the requirements of the EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Table 2.3 summarizes the equipment used in the impact air quality monitoring.
Table 2.3: TSP Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment |
Model |
|
24-hr TSP monitoring |
|
|
High Volume Sampler |
HVS 018 |
|
Calibrator |
TISCH 5025A |
|
1-hr TSP monitoring |
|
|
Portable direct reading dust meter |
Sibata LD-3B Laser Dust Monitor |
2.2.4 Monitoring Methodology
2.2.4.1
24-hour TSP Monitoring
Installation
The HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receiver. The following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.
● A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.
● The distance between the HVS and any obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS.
● A minimum of two metres separation from walls, parapets and penthouse was required for rooftop sampler.
● A minimum of two metres separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally was required.
● No furnace or incinerator flues or building vent were nearby.
● Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.
● The sampler has been more than 20 metres from any drip line.
● Permission was obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations.
● A secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.
Preparation of Filter Papers
● Glass fibre filters were labelled and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.
● All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing. The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 °C and not variable by more than ±3 °C with relative humidity (RH) < 50% and was not variable by more than ±5%. A convenient working RH was 40%.
Field Monitoring
● The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS works properly.
● The filter holder and the area surrounding the filter were cleaned.
● The filter holder was removed by loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen was aligned carefully.
● The filter was properly aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.
● The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter holder down to the frame. The pressure applied should be sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.
● The shelter lid was closed and was secured with the aluminium strip.
● The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.
● A new flow rate record sheet was set into the flow recorder.
● The flow rate of the HVS was checked and adjusted at around 1.1 m3/min. The range specified in the EM&A Manual was between 0.6-1.7 m3/min.
● The programmable timer was set for a sampling period of 24 hrs + 1 hr, and the starting time, weather condition and the filter number were recorded.
● The initial elapsed time was recorded.
● At the end of sampling, the sampled filter was removed carefully and folded in half-length so that only surfaces with collected particulate matter were in contact.
● It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope and sealed.
● All monitoring information was recorded on a standard data sheet.
● Filters were sent to a HOKLAS accredited laboratory for analysis.
Maintenance and Calibration
● The HVS and its accessories are maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.
● HVSs were calibrated at two-month intervals.
● Calibration records for HVSs are shown in Appendix E.
2.2.4.2
1-hour TSP Monitoring
Field Monitoring
The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter are in accordance with the Manufacturers Instruction Manual as follows:
● Set POWER to ON, push BATTERY button, make sure that the meters indicator is in the range with a red line and allow the instrument to stand for about 3 minutes (Then, the air sampling inlet has been capped).
● Push the knob at MEASURE position.
● Push O-ADJ button. (Then meters indication is 0).
● Push the knob at SENSI ADJ position and set the meters indication to S value described on the Test Report using the trimmer for SENSI ADJ.
● Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE position.
● Push START button.
Maintenance and Calibration
● The 1-hour dust meter would be checked at 3-month intervals and calibrated at 1-year intervals throughout all stages of the air quality monitoring.
● Calibration records for direct dust meters are shown in Appendix E.
2.3 Construction Noise
2.3.1 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
Following the requirements in the EM&A Manual for noise, noise monitoring has to be carried out during the construction phase. Continuous noise monitoring for the A-weighted levels Leq(30 min), L10 and L90 is undertaken once per every week.
Table 2.4 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of air quality monitoring.
Table 2.4: Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations |
Parameter |
Frequency and Duration |
|
NSR1, NSR3, NSR5, NSR7 |
Leq(30min), L90, L10 (dB(A)) |
Once every week |
2.3.2 Monitoring Locations
The four noise quality monitoring stations were established in the EM&A manual and were slightly adjusted during the baseline monitoring phase. Locations of the agreed noise quality monitoring stations are listed in Table 2.5 and as shown in Figure 2.2.
Table 2.5: Noise Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Stations |
Locations |
Type of measurement |
|
NSR1 |
Noise monitoring equipment was set up near the boundary wall at Palm Springs. |
Free-field |
|
NSR3 |
The monitoring station was located next to the guard house at Palm Springs. |
Facade |
|
NSR5 |
Outside House No. 1, Ventura Avenue, Royal Palms* |
Facade |
|
NSR7 |
The monitoring station was located near the boundary wall of the house of Mai Po San Tsuen. |
Free-field |
*Note: Relocation of NSR5 was from 5 June 2018 as the previous location will be subject to upcoming construction works. All monitoring data at NSR5 from June 2018 is measured at the new monitoring location.
2.3.3 Monitoring Equipment
Integrating Sound Level Meter will be used for noise monitoring. It is a Type 1 sound level meter capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) and percentile sound pressure level (Lx). They comply with International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1). Table 2.6 summarizes the noise monitoring equipment model being used.
Table 2.6: Noise Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment |
Model |
|
Integrating Sound Level Meter |
Rion NL-52 |
|
Calibrator |
Casella CEL-120/1 |
2.3.4 Monitoring Methodology
Field Monitoring
● The Sound Level Meter was set on a tripod at a height of at least 1.2 m above the ground.
● Faηade and free-field measurements were made at the monitoring locations.
● The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter.
● Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:
frequency weighting: A
time weighting: Fast
time measurement: 30 minutes intervals (between 07:00 and 19:00)
● Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using a Calibrator for 94 dB at 1 kHz. If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1 dB, the measurement would be considered invalid has to be repeated after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.
● During the monitoring period, the Leq, L10 and L90 were recorded. In addition, any site observations and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.
Maintenance and Calibration
● The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator is cleaned with soft cloth at quarterly intervals.
● The meter and calibrator are sent to the supplier or HOKLAS laboratory to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.
● Calibration records are shown in Appendix E.
2.4 Water Quality
2.4.1 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
In accordance with the requirements in the EM&A Manual for water quality, water quality parameters including Dissolved Oxygen (DO), temperature, pH, turbidity, suspended solids (SS) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) have to be monitored at designated monitoring stations during construction of the Project. DO, temperature and pH were measured in-situ whereas SS and BOD were analysed in a laboratory. The measurements should be taken at all designated monitoring stations, three days per week. The interval between any two sets of monitoring was not less than 36 hours. Table 2.7 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of water quality monitoring.
Table 2.7: Water Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations |
Parameter |
Frequency and Duration |
|
MP1, MP2, MP3, MP4, MP5 & MP6 |
DO, temperature, pH, SS, turbidity, BOD |
Three days every week |
2.4.2 Monitoring Locations
The six water quality monitoring stations were established in the EM&A manual. Locations of the agreed water quality monitoring stations are listed in Table 2.8 and as shown in Figure 2.3.
Table 2.8: Water Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Stations |
Easting |
Northing |
|
MP1* |
838 730.50 |
822 862.25 |
|
MP2* |
838 933.26 |
823 247.41 |
|
MP3 |
839 107.17 |
823 596.84 |
|
MP4 |
839 286.14 |
823 638.55 |
|
MP5 |
839 134.35 |
823 722.99 |
|
MP6 |
839 063.02 |
823 842.25 |
*Note: The water quality impact monitoring at MP1 and MP2 have been terminated since July 2012 due to withdrawal of access right from land owner.
2.4.3 Monitoring Equipment
The Water Quality Monitoring Equipment and Analytical Methods applied to Water Quality Samples are given in Table 2.9 and Table 2.10 respectively. Details of which are discussed as follows.
Table 2.9: Water Quality Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment |
Model |
Equipment/Serial Number |
|
Conductivity, Dissolved oxygen, pH, Salinity and Temperature Measuring Meter, Turbidity |
YSI ProDss YSI 6920V2 |
17E100747 18A104824 |
|
Global Positioning System (GPS) |
Garmin eTrex Vista |
ENO 007 |
Table 2.10: Analytical Methods applied to Water Quality Samples
|
Determinant, unit |
Standard Method |
|
Total Suspended Solids, mg/L |
In house method based on APHA 2540D; ALS Method Code: EA-025 |
|
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), mg/L |
In house method based on APHA 5210B; ALS Method Code: EP-030 |
All in-situ monitoring instruments were checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme before use.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Temperature, pH and Turbidity measuring equipment
A portable, weatherproof multiparameter instrument (YSI Professional Plus) was used in the monitoring. It can be capable for measuring dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, pH and turbidity simultaneously with the following limits:
● a dissolved oxygen level in the range of 0-50 mg/L and 0-500 % saturation;
● a temperature of -5 to 70 degrees Celsius;
● pH value of 0-14 with 0.1 as the base unit; and
● turbidity between 0-4000 NTU
Global Positioning System (GPS)
A hand-held GPS navigator (Garmin eTrex Vista) was used to identify the designated monitoring stations prior to water sampling.
Suspended Solids and BOD Measurements (Sample Containers and Storage)
Water samples for SS analysis were stored in high density polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed in ice (cooled to 4 ΊC without being frozen), delivered to the laboratory, and analysed as soon as possible after collection. Analysis was carried out in a HOKLAS accredited laboratory.
2.4.4 Detection Limit
The limits of detection for the in-situ and laboratory measurements are shown in Table 2.11.
Table 2.11: Detection Limits for Water Quality Determinants
|
Determinant |
Limit of Detection |
|
Dissolved Oxygen |
0.1 mg/L |
|
Temperature |
0.1 degree Celsius |
|
pH |
0.01 unit |
|
Turbidity |
0.1 NTU |
|
Suspended Solids |
2 mg/L |
|
BOD |
2 mg/L |
2.4.5 Monitoring Methodology
In situ Measurement
All pH meters, DO/temperature meters had been checked and calibrated prior to use. Standard buffer solution of at least two pH levels (either pH 4 and pH 7, or pH 7 and pH 10) had been used for calibration of the instrument before and after use.
DO meters had been calibrated by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme, and subsequently re-calibrated at three-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes had been checked with certified standard solutions before each use. Wet bulb calibrations for all DO meters had been carried out before measurement at each monitoring location. For the on-site calibration of field equipment, BS 1427:2009, "Guide to on-site test methods for the analysis of waters" had been observed.
Measurements shall be at three water depths, namely, 1m below water surface, mid-depth and 1m above stream bed/pond bed, except where the water depth less that 6m, the mid-depth station maybe omitted. Should the water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored.
Replicates in-situ measurements and samples collected from each independent monitoring event are required for all parameters to ensure a robust statistically interpretable dataset.
Water Samples Preparation and Analysis
For collection of water sampling within the water courses, a 500ml clean plastic beaker was used. After collection, the water samples were stored in high-density polythene bottles. The sample container was rinsed with a portion of the water sample. The water sample was then transferred to the container, labelled with a unique sample ID and sealed with a screw cap. The water samples were stored in a cool box maintained at 4 ΊC. The water samples were then delivered to a local HOKLAS-accredited laboratory (ALS) on the same day for analysis.
The testing methods of testing parameters as recommended by EIA or required by EPD, with the QA/QC results are in accordance with the requirement of HOKLAS or international accredited scheme.
The calibration certificates for equipment used for in-situ monitoring of water quality are attached in Appendix E.
2.5 Ecology
2.5.1 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
Target species and certain other fauna will be monitored within the Project Area and Assessment Area during the wetland and residential construction phase. This will be important to ensure that any unexpected events or impacts either on- or off-site are quickly identified so that remedial action can be taken. The groups to be monitored and frequency of monitoring are shown in Table 2.12.
Table 2.12: Summary of Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring for the Wo Shang Wai Wetland Restoration Area (WRA)
|
Species / Parameter |
Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring |
|
Birds |
Weekly (including Assessment Area). |
|
Dragonflies and Butterflies |
Once per month during March and September to November; and twice per month during April to August. |
|
Herpetofauna |
Day-time: Once per month during April to November; and Night-time: Once per month during March to August |
|
Water Quality |
After filling of WRA with water, monthly for in situ water quality and every six months (end of the wet season and end of the dry season) for laboratory testing. |
|
Site Inspections |
Weekly. |
2.5.2 Monitoring Locations and Methodology
Ecological monitoring locations during construction phase are shown in Figure 4.1 and the methodology for ecological monitoring is detailed in Section 4.
2.6 Landscape and Visual
2.6.1 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
All measures undertaken by both the Contractor and the specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor during the construction phase and first year of the operational phase shall be audited by a Registered Landscape Architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures. Site inspections should be undertaken at least once every two weeks throughout the construction period and once every two months during the operational phase.
The broad scope of audit is detailed below but should also be undertaken with reference to the more specific checklist provided in Table 2.13 below. Operational phase auditing will be restricted to the last 12 months of the establishment works of the landscaping proposals and thus only the items below concerning this period are relevant to the operational phase.
● The extent of the agreed works area should be regularly checked during the construction phase. Any trespass by the Contractor outside the limit of the works, including any damage to existing trees and woodland shall be noted;
● The progress of the engineering works should be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken;
● All existing vegetation, streams and other features within the study area which are not directly affected by the works are retained and protected;
● The methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the Contractor are acceptable and enforced;
● Preparation, lifting transport and re-planting operations for any transplanted trees;
● The layout, design and construction of buildings conforms to requirements specified in the EIA report;
● All landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the EIA recommendations and with specifications;
● The planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers, grasses and other plans, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees are carried out properly and within the right season;
● All necessary horticultural operations and replacement planting are undertaken throughout the Establishment Period to ensure the healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly establishment plants.
Table 2.13: Construction and Operation Phase Audit Checklist
|
Area of Works |
Items to be Monitored |
|
Works Area |
Check the extent of the Works to ensure that the Works Area is not exceeded the site boundaries. |
|
Protection of all trees and woodland blocks to be retained |
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be retained, erection of physical protection (e.g. fencing), monitoring against possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc. |
|
Streams |
Ensure no run-off into existing streams |
|
Clearance of existing vegetation |
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be cleared, checking of extent of works to minimize damage, monitoring of adjacent areas against possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc. |
|
Transplanting of trees |
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be transplanted, monitoring of extent of pruning / lifting works to minimize damage, timing of operations implementation of all stages of preparatory and translocation works, and maintenance of transplanted vegetation, etc. |
|
Topsoil stripping |
Ensuring existing topsoil is stripped and stored under recognized good practice and is hydroseeded and regularly turned to prevent anaerobic conditions |
|
New buildings |
Ensure that building finishes accord with mitigation proposals with regard to colour and albedo. |
|
Boundaries |
Ensuring hoarding are erected as required |
|
Noise Barrier |
Ensure noise barrier design accords with the mitigation proposals with regard to location, materials and finishes. |
|
Night-time lighting |
Ensuring night-time lighting is directional, hooded and shielded away from VSRs |
|
Plant supply |
Monitoring of operations relating to the supply of specialist plant material (including the collecting, germination and growth of plants from seed) to ensure that plants will be available in time to be used within the construction works. |
|
Landscape and wetland treatments generally |
Check that wetland, and hard / soft landscape designs conform to intent of mitigation measures and agreed designs |
|
Soiling, planting, etc. |
Monitoring of implementation and maintenance of soiling and planting works against possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc. |
|
Establishment Works |
Monitoring of implementation of maintenance operation during Establishment Period |
2.6.2 Monitoring Locations
The monitoring locations should check against the mitigation measures proposed under the approved Environmental Impact Assessment, which are summarised as follows in Table 2.14 and Table 2.15:
Table 2.14: Proposed Construction Phase Mitigation Measures
|
ID No. |
Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures |
|
CM1 |
The construction area and contractors temporary works areas should be minimised to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape. |
|
CM2 |
Screening of construction works by hoardings/noise barriers around Works area in visually unobtrusive colours, to screen Works. |
|
CM3 |
Reduction of construction period to practical minimum. |
|
CM4 |
Topsoil, where identified, should be stripped and stored for re-use in the construction of the soft landscape works, where the soil material meets acceptable criteria and where practical. The Contract Specification shall include storage and reuse of topsoil as appropriate. |
|
CM5 |
Hydroseeding or sheeting of soil stockpiles with visually unobtrusive material (in earth tone). |
|
CM6 |
Advance screen planting to noise barriers. |
|
CM7 |
Control night-time lighting and glare by hooding all lights. |
|
CM8 |
Ensure no run-off into streams adjacent to Project Area. |
|
CM9 |
Protection of existing trees on boundary of project area shall be carefully protected during construction. Detailed Tree Protection Specification shall be provided in the Contract Specification. Under this specification, the Contractor shall be required to submit, for approval, a detailed working method statement for the protection of trees prior to undertaking any works adjacent to all retained trees, including trees in contractors works areas. (Tree protection measures will be detailed at S16 and Tree Removal Application stage). |
|
CM10 |
Trees unavoidably affected by the works shall be transplanted where practical. Trees should be transplanted straight to their destinations and not held in a nursery. A detailed Tree Transplanting Specification shall be provided in the Contract Specification, if applicable. Sufficient time for necessary tree root and crown preparation periods shall be allowed in the project programme. |
Table 2.15: Proposed Operation Phase Mitigation Measures
|
ID No. |
Landscape Mitigation Measures |
|
OM1 |
Compensatory Tree Planting for all felled trees shall be provided to the satisfaction of relevant Government departments. Required numbers and locations of compensatory trees shall be determined and agreed separately with Government during the Tree Felling Application process under DEVB TC(W) 7/2015. |
|
OM2 |
A continuous belt of screen planting along southern perimeter of project area with fast growing tree species. At least 450 trees capable of reaching a height > 10m within 10 years should be planted. Planting of the belt of trees shall be carried out as advance works ahead of other site formation and building works. |
|
OM3 |
Maximise soft landscape and amenity water bodies in residential areas of the development. Approximately 750 trees (of Heavy Standard size) should be planted. Where space permits, roadside berms should be created. Street trees should be of species that reach a mature height of no less than 15m. |
|
OM4 |
Maximise freshwater habitat wetland creation consistent with achieving other parameters. Minimum 4.74 ha to be provided. Wetlands must have natural edge profiles with >1m wide emergent zone. No access to the wetland by residents and all wetlands must be screened from residential development by a continuous tree screen at interface with residential development or earth mounding such that disturbance is minimised. Implementation of the wetland shall be carried out as advance works. |
|
OM5 |
Use appropriate (visually unobtrusive and non-reflective) building materials and colours in built structures. |
|
OM6 |
During detailed design, refine building layout to create a min. 10m wide gap between buildings north of Wo Shang Wai pond and also two min. 10m wide gaps in the row of buildings adjacent to Royal Palms. |
|
OM7 |
Streetscape elements (e.g. paving, signage, street furniture, lighting etc.) shall be sensitively designed in a manner that responds to the local context and minimises potential negative landscape and visual impacts. Lighting units should be directional and minimise unnecessary light spill. |
3 Monitoring
Results
|
3.1 Impact Monitoring Schedule
Impact monitoring for air quality (dust), noise and water quality due to the construction work were undertaken during the reporting month in compliance with the EM&A manual in the reporting period. Regular site inspections were carried out on 6, 12, 19 and 26 September 2019 during the reporting month to assess the compliance with environmental requirements.
3.2 Results of Impact Monitoring
3.2.1 Air Quality Monitoring
3.2.1.1
1-hour TSP
Results of 1-hour TSP at the four monitoring locations are summarised in Table 3.1. Graphical plots of the monitoring results are shown in Appendix F. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.
Table 3.1: Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results
|
Monitoring Date |
Start Time |
1-hr TSP (mg/m3) |
Range (mg/m3) |
Action Level (mg/m3) |
Limit Level (mg/m3) |
||
|
1st Result |
2nd Result |
3rd Result |
|||||
|
ASR1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
9:12 |
19 |
22 |
18 |
18-91 |
378 |
500 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
9:06 |
24 |
25 |
23 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
9:12 |
50 |
31 |
30 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
9:10 |
19 |
22 |
20 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
8:32 |
91 |
75 |
55 |
|||
|
ASR2A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
13:03 |
21 |
20 |
24 |
19-68 |
357 |
500 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
12:58 |
26 |
27 |
27 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
13:15 |
31 |
33 |
25 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
13:05 |
19 |
23 |
24 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
12:49 |
68 |
41 |
42 |
|||
|
ASR3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
12:51 |
24 |
22 |
26 |
18-57 |
358 |
500 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
12:46 |
24 |
22 |
19 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
13:03 |
28 |
28 |
26 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
12:53 |
18 |
20 |
18 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
12:38 |
56 |
57 |
56 |
|||
|
Monitoring Date |
Start Time |
1-hr TSP (mg/m3) |
Range (mg/m3) |
Action Level (mg/m3) |
Limit Level (mg/m3) |
||
|
1st Result |
2nd Result |
3rd Result |
|||||
|
ASR4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
9:23 |
25 |
21 |
22 |
20-78 |
372 |
500 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
9:19 |
27 |
27 |
25 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
9:25 |
49 |
34 |
24 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
9:23 |
20 |
24 |
26 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
9:07 |
75 |
78 |
74 |
|||
3.2.1.2
24-hour TSP
Results of 24-hour TSP at the four monitoring locations are summarised in Table 3.2. Graphical plots of the monitoring results are shown in Appendix F. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.
Table 3.2: Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results
|
Monitoring Date |
Monitoring Results (mg/m3) |
Range (mg/m3) |
Action Level (mg/m3) |
Limit Level (mg/m3) |
|
ASR1 |
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
20 |
16-105 |
226 |
260 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
16 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
39 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
91 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
105 |
|||
|
ASR2A |
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
41 |
27-90 |
213 |
260 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
27 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
90 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
64 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
90 |
|||
|
ASR3 |
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
20 |
20-95 |
205 |
260 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
27 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
44 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
87 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
95 |
|||
|
ASR4 |
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
28 |
28-117 |
237
|
260
|
|
10-Sep-19 |
40 |
|||
|
16-Sep-19 |
96 |
|||
|
21-Sep-19 |
84 |
|||
|
27-Sep-19 |
117 |
No exceedance of 1-hour and 24-hour TSP (Action or Limit Level) was recorded in the reporting period.
3.2.2 Construction Noise Monitoring
The construction noise monitoring results are summarized in Table 3.3. Graphical plots of the monitoring data are shown in Appendix F. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.
Table 3.3: Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results
|
Monitoring Date |
Start Time |
Mean and Range of Noise Levels, dB(A) |
Limit Level for Leq (dB(A)) |
||
|
Leq |
L10 |
L90 |
|||
|
NSR1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
11:26 |
50 |
52 |
46 |
75 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
11:23 |
47 |
49 |
41 |
|
|
16-Sep-19 |
11:30 |
51 |
54 |
41 |
|
|
27-Sep-19 |
11:17 |
45 |
49 |
40 |
|
|
NSR3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
10:46 |
47 |
48 |
45 |
75 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
10:44 |
46 |
48 |
43 |
|
|
16-Sep-19 |
10:51 |
47 |
49 |
43 |
|
|
27-Sep-19 |
10:36 |
45 |
46 |
43 |
|
|
NSR5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
10:07 |
53 |
56 |
47 |
75 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
10:04 |
50 |
52 |
46 |
|
|
16-Sep-19 |
10:10 |
47 |
49 |
40 |
|
|
27-Sep-19 |
9:55 |
51 |
53 |
45 |
|
|
NSR7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
04-Sep-19 |
9:28 |
67 |
68 |
65 |
75 |
|
10-Sep-19 |
9:25 |
69 |
70 |
65 |
|
|
16-Sep-19 |
9:30 |
67 |
68 |
65 |
|
|
27-Sep-19 |
9:13 |
69 |
71 |
65 |
|
No exceedance (Action/Limit Level) of construction noise was recorded in the reporting period.
3.2.3 Water Quality Monitoring
The water quality monitoring results are summarized in Table 3.4. Graphical plots of the monitoring data are shown in Appendix F. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.
Table 3.4: Summary of Water Quality Monitoring Results
|
Monitoring Date |
Temp (ΊC) |
pH |
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L) |
DO (%) |
Turbidity (NTU) |
BOD (mg/L)(1) |
Suspended Solids (mg/L) |
|
MP3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
02-09-19 |
28.6 |
7.3 |
7.4 |
96.0 |
14.7 |
4 |
15 |
|
04-09-19 |
29.0 |
7.2 |
7.5 |
98.8 |
10.5 |
4 |
11 |
|
06-09-19 |
31.8 |
7.2 |
6.9 |
98.8 |
10.7 |
3 |
11 |
|
09-09-19 |
33.2 |
7.2 |
7.1 |
101.8 |
30.8 |
6 |
31 |
|
11-09-19 |
34.2 |
7.2 |
7.0 |
97.8 |
9.7 |
4 |
10 |
|
13-09-19 |
33.8 |
7.3 |
7.0 |
98.9 |
10.8 |
5 |
11 |
|
16-09-19 |
31.0 |
7.1 |
7.2 |
101.5 |
36.0 |
3 |
36 |
|
18-09-19 |
32.4 |
7.2 |
7.0 |
100.8 |
19.8 |
4 |
19 |
|
20-09-19 |
31.4 |
7.1 |
7.1 |
95.8 |
10.8 |
4 |
7 |
|
23-09-19 |
30.3 |
7.2 |
7.0 |
99.7 |
18.2 |
9 |
19 |
|
25-09-19 |
29.9 |
7.3 |
7.1 |
100.4 |
16.4 |
4 |
10 |
|
27-09-19 |
30.3 |
7.1 |
7.0 |
100.2 |
16.9 |
7 |
16 |
|
30-09-19 |
33.1 |
7.0 |
7.1 |
101.3 |
17.1 |
8 |
26 |
|
Action Level |
- |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<6.85 |
- |
>64 |
- |
>65 |
|
Limit Level |
- |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<6.65 |
- |
>67 |
- |
>66 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
02-09-19 |
28.2 |
7.1 |
5.8 |
70.1 |
33.2 |
3 |
33 |
|
04-09-19 |
28.6 |
7.0 |
6.2 |
76.3 |
34.9 |
3 |
35 |
|
06-09-19 |
31.4 |
7.1 |
5.9 |
72.5 |
41.3 |
2 |
41 |
|
09-09-19 |
32.8 |
7.0 |
5.9 |
77.8 |
37.0 |
3 |
37 |
|
11-09-19 |
33.8 |
7.1 |
5.9 |
70.6 |
45.2 |
3 |
45 |
|
13-09-19 |
33.4 |
7.1 |
5.9 |
69.4 |
48.1 |
8 |
47 |
|
16-09-19 |
30.6 |
6.9 |
6.1 |
72.6 |
13.5 |
6 |
14 |
|
18-09-19 |
32.0 |
7.0 |
6.1 |
73.1 |
49.8 |
3 |
56 |
|
20-09-19 |
31.0 |
6.9 |
5.6 |
68.7 |
28.1 |
3 |
29 |
|
23-09-19 |
29.9 |
7.0 |
5.6 |
71.1 |
33.3 |
4 |
33 |
|
25-09-19 |
29.5 |
7.1 |
6.0 |
73.8 |
38.4 |
3 |
23 |
|
27-09-19 |
29.9 |
7.0 |
6.0 |
69.9 |
42.2 |
4 |
43 |
|
30-09-19 |
32.7 |
7.1 |
6.0 |
71.7 |
20.0 |
3 |
13 |
|
Action Level |
- |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<3.91 |
- |
>60 |
- |
>50 |
|
Limit Level |
- |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<3.82 |
- |
>64 |
- |
>53 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
02-09-19 |
28.8 |
7.4 |
6.3 |
76.0 |
23.3 |
4 |
23 |
|
04-09-19 |
29.2 |
7.4 |
6.0 |
74.0 |
30.8 |
3 |
31 |
|
06-09-19 |
32.0 |
7.5 |
6.0 |
75.0 |
33.1 |
4 |
33 |
|
09-09-19 |
33.4 |
7.4 |
5.9 |
77.3 |
33.7 |
9 |
34 |
|
11-09-19 |
34.4 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
68.4 |
35.1 |
3 |
35 |
|
13-09-19 |
34.0 |
7.4 |
5.7 |
67.0 |
52.8 |
4 |
53 |
|
16-09-19 |
31.2 |
7.4 |
5.7 |
68.1 |
39.1 |
4 |
39 |
|
18-09-19 |
32.6 |
7.4 |
5.8 |
69.7 |
56.5 |
3 |
66 |
|
20-09-19 |
31.6 |
7.4 |
5.5 |
68.1 |
24.3 |
3 |
24 |
|
23-09-19 |
30.5 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
71.2 |
40.8 |
9 |
41 |
|
25-09-19 |
30.1 |
7.5 |
5.8 |
70.0 |
34.4 |
3 |
22 |
|
27-09-19 |
30.5 |
7.5 |
5.8 |
69.3 |
33.1 |
6 |
33 |
|
30-09-19 |
33.3 |
7.4 |
5.9 |
69.3 |
16.1 |
5 |
11 |
|
Action Level |
- |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<4.13 |
- |
>81 |
- |
>66 |
|
Limit Level |
- |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<3.87 |
- |
>84 |
- |
>69 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
02-09-19 |
29.1 |
7.5 |
5.8 |
71.0 |
23.3 |
4 |
23 |
|
04-09-19 |
29.5 |
7.5 |
5.9 |
73.8 |
28.9 |
4 |
29 |
|
06-09-19 |
32.3 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
69.3 |
30.8 |
3 |
31 |
|
09-09-19 |
33.7 |
7.4 |
5.7 |
75.0 |
33.8 |
9 |
34 |
|
11-09-19 |
34.7 |
7.5 |
5.6 |
68.0 |
32.4 |
3 |
32 |
|
13-09-19 |
34.3 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
67.0 |
54.2 |
3 |
55 |
|
16-09-19 |
31.5 |
7.4 |
5.6 |
64.5 |
41.2 |
4 |
42 |
|
18-09-19 |
32.9 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
67.8 |
57.3 |
3 |
61 |
|
20-09-19 |
31.9 |
7.5 |
5.5 |
66.7 |
22.7 |
3 |
23 |
|
23-09-19 |
30.8 |
7.6 |
5.6 |
69.0 |
40.1 |
9 |
40 |
|
25-09-19 |
30.4 |
7.6 |
5.8 |
67.9 |
35.6 |
3 |
22 |
|
27-09-19 |
30.8 |
7.5 |
5.7 |
68.9 |
33.7 |
6 |
34 |
|
30-09-19 |
33.6 |
7.5 |
5.8 |
68.3 |
18.8 |
6 |
19 |
|
Action Level |
- |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<4.61 |
- |
>94 |
- |
>75 |
|
Limit Level |
- |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<4.52 |
- |
>96 |
- |
>75 |
Notes:
(1) <2: Value is too low to indicate (<2mg/L).
(2) Values in Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.
(3) Values Underlined and in Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.
3.2.3.1
Exceedance
Investigation and Findings
During September 2019, a total of two Action Level and one Limit Level exceedances were observed. Two Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6 and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4.
Exceedance of SS at MP4
Exceedance of the Limit Level of SS was observed on 18 September 2019.
From the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) records, the showers were rather heavy and localized on 17 September 2019, the day before the SS Limit Level exceedance was recorded, with more \\mottmac\project\Hong Kong\ENL\PROJECTS\370161 Wo Shang Wai ET Extension\05 Deliverable\01 Monthly EM&A\2019\9of rainfall recorded over the Project Site. The rainfall may have caused surface runoff from all sources near the open ditch. It is believed that the runoff increased the turbulence and thus resulted in higher SS inside the ditch water on the day of SS exceedance.
Also, on the day of SS exceedance, a slightly muddy appearance of the water body was observed at MP4. The appearance of the water body at MP4 on 18 September 2019 is shown in the following photo.
Furthermore, it is noted that SS levels recorded at MP5 and MP6 on the same day were also high but did not exceed their respective Action Levels.
As presented in the weekly site inspections checklists, no observation regarding discharge of muddy water was recorded in September 2019. Hence it is believed that the SS exceedance was probably due to localised natural variations instead.
Exceedances of pH at MP6
Exceedances of the Action Level of pH were observed on 23 and 25 September 2019 at MP6.
On the days of pH exceedance at MP6, the pH levels were recorded as 7.6. The open ditch (represented by MP4, MP5 and MP6) is separated from the fish pond near the site (represented by MP3) by the pond bund, and, no direct discharge from the project site to the open ditch was carried out. Hence, it is possible that these pH levels were due to natural variations affecting the vicinity in general.
Furthermore, the site effluent was effectively treated by the AquaSed system and discharged from the site at a low, controlled rate during the reporting month.
Therefore, it is stipulated that the pH exceedances recorded at MP6 were due to the natural variations and heavy rainfall.
Conclusion
As a result, the abovementioned
exceedance(s) were unlikely to be due to the project construction works and
therefore not considered to be related to the project.
4.1 Monitoring of Birds
This report documents surveys conducted in the Survey Area between 1 and 30 September 2019. The Wetland Restoration Area (WRA) is also surveyed as the area is accessible and site formation works for WRA has been completed. The updated survey transect is provided in Figure 4.1. Dates and ecological surveys conducted during this period are summarised in Appendix H.
Monitoring was undertaken following the survey methodology in the EM&A Manual. A transect was followed in the bird surveys (see Figure 4.1). All bird species were identified to species and all bird species of conservation importance and/or wetland dependent were enumerated and recorded to the habitats in which they were observed. Flying birds were not recorded unless they were foraging and/or associated with the habitat (such as swifts). Further, notable bird observations during other surveys were also recorded.
Bird surveys were conducted on a weekly basis. A total of 29 bird species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA), 13 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence. Within the WRA, 32 bird species were recorded, 15 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence including two of the three target species (Little Egret and Chinese Pond Heron). The WRA continues to attract a number of species of conservation importance, including Little Grebe, Tachybaptus ruficollis, Grey Heron, Ardea cinerea, Great Egret, Ardea alba, Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis, Black-crowned Night Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax, Black Kite, Milvus migrans and Eurasian Hobby, Falco subbuteo. Little Grebe, Yellow Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron and Eurasian Hobby are listed by Fellowes et al. as of Local Concern in 2002. Grey Heron and Great Egret are listed by Fellowes et al. as of Potential Regional Concern in 2002. Black Kite is listed by Fellowes et al. as of Regional Concern in 2002.
In addition to wetland-dependence birds, the WRA also attracts a number of terrestrial birds including Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis which is listed as vulnerable (VU) in the China Red Data Book and is protected under terrestrial wildlife state protection (category II). Survey findings indicate that the WRA not only provides important habitat for wetland-dependence birds but also the terrestrial birds.
A summary of survey data is provided in Appendix I.
4.2 Monitoring of Herpetofauna
One day-time herpetofauna survey was scheduled in the reporting month. Further, notable herpetofauna observations during other surveys were also recorded.
No amphibian species nor reptile species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) and within the WRA during the regular and outside surveys.
A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.
4.3 Monitoring of Dragonflies and
Butterflies
One odonates and butterflies survey was scheduled in the reporting month. Further, notable odonate and butterfly observations during other surveys were recorded.
No odonata species but one butterfly species was recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during the regular survey; while five odonata species and one butterfly species were recorded within the WRA during the regular survey.
Four odonata species and one butterfly species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during the outside surveys; while four odonata species and two butterfly species were recorded within the WRA during the outside surveys. A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.
4.4 Monitoring of Mammals
Monitoring of mammals was conducted concurrently with other surveys.
No mammal species was recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) nor within the WRA during the regular surveys.
No mammal species was recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during the outside surveys. Two mammal species were recorded within the WRA during the outside surveys.
A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.
4.5 Monitoring of Water Quality
During the reporting period, the water level of Cell 2 reached the action level on 18 and 27 September 2019. The monitoring frequency will be doubled in the coming month. According to the ecological monitoring data, the low water level in the WRA attracted wetland dependence species including Little Grebe, Great Egret, Yellow Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron, Black Kite, Eurasian Hobby, White-breasted Waterhen, Common Moorhen, Common Sandpiper, Common Snipe, Common Kingfisher and Oriental Reed Warbler. As the low water level attracts wetland dependence birds, the existing water level will be maintained.
Extra water quality data for September 2019 was recorded on 18 September 2019. Monitoring data is presented in Appendix K. Locations for the monitoring of water quality for the ecological monitoring are shown in Figure 4.2.
4.6 Management Activities
4.6.1 Vegetation Management
Removal of exotic vegetation in all cells was undertaken; these removals included but were not limited to Ipomoea sp., Mikania sp., Mimosa sp., Pennisetum sp. and Typha sp.
Vegetation management activities undertaken at the site primarily involved watering of plants, weeding and grass cutting.
4.6.2 Wildlife Management
Removal of Golden Apple Snail was undertaken on an as-seen basis.
All sighted Red Fire Ant nests were treated with approved pesticide.
Mitigation actions have been taken in the WRA during the survey period to increase the WRA utilization by birds, including:
1. Controlling the vegetation at Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3 and Cell 4; and
2. Lowering the water level of Cell 4.
4.7 Summary
Ecological monitoring during September 2019 was carried out according to the survey methodology and frequency outlined in the EM&A Manual.
A summary of the survey findings is listed in Table 4.1 below:
Table 4.1: Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area under EM&A Manual
|
Species |
Survey Area (excluding WRA) |
WRA |
|
Birds (total) |
29 |
32 |
|
Birds (of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence) |
13 |
15 |
|
Amphibians |
0 |
0 |
|
Reptiles |
0 |
0 |
|
Mammals |
0 |
2 |
|
Odonates |
4 |
6 |
|
Butterflies |
2 |
2 |
Survey findings indicate that the ponds within the Survey Area supported numbers and diversity of wetland-dependent birds typical of fish pond areas. The WRA continues to attract wetland dependent fauna and serves as a buffer between the residential portion and the fishponds in the north.
5.1 Site Inspections
The EM&A programme for Landscape and Visual impact due to the construction commenced in June 2010 and continued during the reporting period. Site inspections on Landscape and Visual impact were carried out on 12 and 26 September 2019 to confirm the implementation of mitigation measures at the construction stage.
The Event and Action Plan for Landscape & Visual is shown in Appendix D.
5.2 Construction Phase Audit Summary
The audit was undertaken with references to the specific checklists provided in Table 2.13 Table 2.15 and audit results are summarized below in Table 5.1. Representative photos showing the implementation of mitigation measures are presented in Appendix M.
Table 5.1: Construction and Operation Phase Audit Summary
|
Area of Works |
Items of be Monitored |
|
Works Area |
The boundaries of the works area have been established on site in accordance with the contract documents and approved plans (EP), and the limit of current heavy construction activity is now confined to within the site hoardings (North side of the site / access road) and the noise barriers (other sides of the site). Minor works such as horticultural maintenance of the planting and transplanted trees, and boundary fence repair was proceeding along the Royal Palms Palm Springs boundary. (Appendix M Photo 1 Table 2.14 CM2 refers) No construction works were observed to have exceeded the site boundaries. No construction was carried out at the wetland restoration area after 15 November 2010. |
|
Protection of all trees and woodland blocks to be retained |
Trees retained within the site along the northeast boundary, beside wetland restoration area, have been identified and protected by temporary protective fencing. |
|
Streams |
The works site is partly encircled by a berm / perimeter channel to intercept surface water and prevent it from washing off into any of the neighbouring sites. Surface water is collected within the site in a temporary drainage channel. Gravels beds and barriers have been installed to filter site runoff, sedimentation ponds have been provided to enable primary treatment before discharge to mains drains. |
|
Clearance of existing vegetation |
Site clearance was completed prior to the commencement of construction. |
|
Transplanting of trees |
Tree transplanting has been completed, with the trees relocated to various points within the planting strip along the southern boundary of the site, outside the noise barrier. Most of the trees continue to re-establish well up to now, other than those (i.e. T597, T35a and T611) which were collapsed after Typhoon Mangkhut. For these 3 nos. of transplanting trees, tree removal work is completed, and tree replacement works should be undertaken prior to other construction and building works. |
|
Topsoil stripping |
Suitable pond bund and soil material which had been excavated and stockpiled from the original site, has now been re-used within the landscape works. Dust suppression measures are active along all internal site access tracks. |
|
New buildings |
No new permanent buildings have yet been constructed on site. |
|
Boundaries |
Hoardings have been erected along most of the boundaries of the site. Installation of new screen fence between the future residential sites and the constructed wetland restoration areas is complete. Fence has been painted green to match with the surrounding vegetated environment. (Appendix M Photo 1 Table 2.14 CM2 refers) |
|
Noise Barrier |
Noise barriers have been installed along the southern and western boundaries of the site in accordance with the contract requirements. Their design complies with the mitigation requirements, with upper 6 to 7m portion of the barrier being made from a translucent material with green tinted (to match with the environment). Supporting GMS structure, likewise, has been painted green. (Appendix M Photo 3 Table 2.14 CM6 refers). |
|
Night-time lighting |
No night-time works were reported to have been carried out during the monitoring period. |
|
Landscape and wetland treatments generally |
Continuous belt of screen planting along the southern and western boundaries of the site has been completed. The formation, soiling and water control structures of the wetland restoration area have been completed. (Appendix M Photo 3 Table 2.14 CM6 refers) The wetland areas are being established, with the ponds are being seasonally filled with rain water. Planting of areas around the WRA cells is complete. No construction was carried out at the wetland restoration area after 15 November 2010. (Appendix M Photo 2 Table 2.14 CM2 refers) |
|
Soiling, etc. |
The soil placement and grading for each of the wetland restoration areas has been completed. Refilling for those holes left after the whole tree removal works has been completed. |
|
Plant supply |
The plant material used in the Advance Planting Strip and in the WRA are all commonly available species and came from commercial sources. Transplanted reeds (Phragmites australis) at the wetland habitat came from the temporary holding nursery onsite. |
|
Planting |
The tree species are all from the approved list. Some of the trees that were identified having defects (i.e. broken branches, branch cracks, uprooted roots, termite infestation and etc.), proper mitigation measures are to be adopted. Some of the recently planted trees are in poor condition. These trees are under close monitoring. If the condition of these trees continues to deteriorate, tree replacement will be required. Seedling trees and shrubs have been established at the margins of the wetland cells. Some invasive vegetation has been found during site inspection, removal of these species should be undertaken on a regular basis. |
|
Establishment Works |
The advance planting, the compensatory planting and transplanted trees are generally being maintained by the landscape sub-contractor in accordance with the specification to ensure that the contract requirements are met. Some trees are in poor health condition. Close monitoring for those trees is recommended. 2 nos. of trees were dead with completely dehydrated tree crown and tree removal with replacement are recommended. Regular weeding for over-grown shrub is recommended. For those trees with trunk failure, which may not be recovered, some of them were removed during the arboricultural maintenance works. Tree removal works should be continued for the trees with unrecoverable health and structure problems and subsequent tree replacement is suggested. Regular pruning of the trees should be undertaken to remove the defective parts (e.g. dead branches, dieback, broken branches, hanging branches) on the trees. For those uprooted /leaning trees, re-erection of these trees and installation of proper tree support system are recommended. For those that might be unrecoverable, tree removal and replacement are recommended. Tree replacement works for those trees which have been removed should be conducted as soon as possible prior to any other site formation and building works. Removal of extensive growth of weeds, unplanned tree seedlings, invasive climbers in the space behind screen noise barrier needs to be undertaken on a monthly basis as they may inhibit the advance planting. Horticultural maintenance (grass cutting, weeding, watering etc.) in the shrubs and tree seedling areas around the WRA cells should be undertaken regularly. Regular removal of invasive species (i.e. apple snails, Leucaena leucocephala, Mikania micrantha, Mimosa pudica, Bidens alba and etc.) in WRA should be undertaken. The growth of shrubs / seedlings on the north side of WRA remains fair. |
6 Environmental
Site Inspection and Audit
|
6.1 Site Inspection
The ET had carried out construction phase weekly site inspections on 6, 12, 19 and 26 September 2019. All observations have been recorded in the site inspection checklist and passed to the Contractor together with the appropriate recommended mitigation measures where necessary. The key observations from site inspections and associated recommendations are summarized in Table 6.1.
Table 6.1: Summary of Site Inspections and Recommendations
|
Key Observations |
ET Recommendation |
Contractors Responses / Action(s) Undertaken |
Close-out (Date) |
|
Nil |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
6.2 Solid and Liquid Waste Management
Status
The Contractor has been registered as a chemical waste producer for the Project. Construction and demolition (C&D) material sorting was carried out on site. A sufficient number of receptacles were available for general refuse collection.
As advised by the Contractor, no inert C&D material (i.e. broken concrete/ big boulders) were generated on site and sent to a sorting facility for recycling into rockfill. No metals were generated and collected by registered recycling collector. No paper/cardboard packing and no plastics were generated on site and collected by registered recycling collector. No chemical waste was generated and collected by licensed chemical waste collector. No other types of wastes (e.g. general refuse) were generated on site and disposed of at public landfill facility.
The Contractor is advised to maintain on site waste sorting and recording system and maximize reuse / recycling of C&D wastes, whenever these are generated.
6.3 Status of Environmental Licences and
Permits
The environmental permits, licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project which were valid during the reporting period is summarised in Table 6.2.
Table 6.2: Status of Environmental Submissions, Licences and Permits
|
Statutory Reference |
Description |
Permit/Reference No. |
Status |
|
EIAO |
Environmental Permit |
EP-311/2008/E |
Valid |
|
APCO |
Notification of Construction Work under APCO |
316688 (27 Apr 2010) |
Valid |
|
WPCO |
Discharge Licence |
WT00022647-2015 (8 Oct 2015) |
Valid |
|
WDO |
Registration as Chemical Waste Producer |
WPN0000-542-H3083-04 |
Valid |
|
WDO |
Bill Account for Disposal |
700945423 |
Valid |
Legend: EIAO Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance; APCO Air Pollution Control Ordinance; WPCO Water Pollution Control Ordinance; WDO Waste Disposal Ordinance
6.4 Recommended Mitigation Measures
The EM&A programme followed the recommended mitigation measures in the EM&A Manual. The EM&A requirements as well as the summary of implementation status of the environmental mitigation measures are provided in Appendix L. In particular, the following mitigation measures were brought to attention during the site audits.
Air Quality
● Dark smoke emission from equipment/plant should be avoided.
Noise
● The noise barriers and hoardings should have no gaps and openings to avoid noise leakage.
Water Quality
● Site effluent should be discharged in accordance with discharge licence.
● The site should be confined and properly maintained to avoid silt runoff.
● Chemicals will always be stored on drip trays or in bunded areas.
Waste Management
● The chemical waste storage area should be clearly labelled.
● General refuse should be stored in enclosed bins or compaction units separate from C&D and chemical wastes.
7.1 Record of non-compliance of Action
and Limit Levels
There was no breach of Action or Limit Levels for Air Quality and Noise monitoring in the reporting month.
During September 2019, a total of two Action Level and one Limit Level exceedances were observed. Two Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6 and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4.
A summary is presented in Table 7.1 below.
Table 7.1: Summary of Exceedances in Water Quality
|
Monitoring Date |
pH |
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L) |
Turbidity (NTU) |
Suspended Solids (mg/L) |
|
MP4 |
|
|
|
|
|
18-09-19 |
7.0 |
6.1 |
49.8 |
56 |
|
Action Level |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<3.91 |
>60 |
>50 |
|
Limit Level |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<3.82 |
>64 |
>53 |
|
MP6 |
|
|
|
|
|
23-09-19 |
7.6 |
5.6 |
40.1 |
40 |
|
25-09-19 |
7.6 |
5.8 |
35.6 |
22 |
|
Action Level |
<5.5 or >7.5 |
<4.61 |
>94 |
>75 |
|
Limit Level |
<4.0 or >8.0 |
<4.52 |
>96 |
>75 |
Notes:
(1) <2: Value is too low to indicate (<2mg/L).
(2) Values in Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.
(3) Values Underlined and in Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.
7.2
Record on Environmental Complaints Received
No environmental complaint was received during the reporting month.
7.3
Record
on Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution
No notifications of summons or successful prosecution were received the reporting month.
7.4
Review
of Reasons for and Implications of Non-compliance, Complaints, Summons and
Prosecutions
Non-compliance
Investigations have been carried out to identify the causes of the water quality exceedances.
The investigation findings are presented in Section 3.2.3.1. It was concluded that the abovementioned exceedances were unlikely to be due to the construction works and therefore not considered to be related to the project.
Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions
Not applicable for this reporting month.
7.5
Follow-up
Actions Taken
Non-compliance
As non-compliances have been recorded, the Event and Action Plan has been followed. Although it is considered that the exceedances were not related to the Project, the Contractor was reminded to implement the water quality mitigation measures in accordance with the recommendation stated in Section 5.6.1 5.6.4 of the EIA Report as far as practicable and regular spot check would be conducted on the nearby discharge by the Contractor and he would inform the ET for investigation.
Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions
Not applicable for this reporting month.
7.6
Cumulative
Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions
Cumulative statistics for complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for the Project account for period starting from the date of commencement of construction (i.e. 12 May 2010) to the end of the reporting month and are summarized in Table 7.2 below.
Table 7.2: Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution
|
Reporting Period |
Cumulative Statistics |
||
|
Complaints |
Notifications of Summons |
Successful Prosecutions |
|
|
This reporting month (September 2019) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
From 12 May 2010 to end of the reporting month (September 2019) |
8 |
0 |
0 |
8.1 Site Preparatory Works and
Construction Works for the Coming Month
The major site works to be commissioned in the coming month include:
● Regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area (including lowering of the water level and removal of unwanted species in the pond)
● No major construction works
8.2
Key
Issues for the Coming Months
Key issues to be considered in the coming three months include:
● Provision of water spraying or dust suppression chemical to prevent generation of dust from activities on-site and the haul road during dry weather conditions;
● Provision of wheel washing facilities at vehicle exit point;
● Generation and treatment of site surface runoffs and wastewater from activities on-site and during wet weather conditions;
● Sorting, recycling, storage and disposal of general refuse and construction waste from activities on-site; and
● Management of chemicals and avoidance of oil spillage on-site and to the drainage system.
8.3
Monitoring
Schedule for the Coming Month
The environmental site inspection and environmental monitoring will be continued in the coming month. Impact monitoring for air, noise, water quality, ecology and landscape and visual in accordance with the approved EM&A Manual has commenced since 12 May 2010. The tentative monitoring schedule for October 2019 is shown in the Table 8.1.
Table 8.1: Tentative Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Next Reporting Month
8.4
Conclusions and Recommendations
8.4.1 Conclusions
The EM&A programme as recommended in the EM&A manual has been undertaken in the reporting month since 12 May 2010.
Monitoring of Air Quality, Noise, Water Quality, Ecology and Landscape and Visual impacts due to the Project was under way. In particular, the 1-hr TSP, 24-hr TSP, noise level (as Leq) and water quality parameters (such as pH, DO, turbidity and SS) under monitoring have been checked against established Action and Limit levels.
There was no breach of Action or Limit Levels for Air Quality and Noise monitoring in the reporting month.
During September 2019, a total of two Action Level and one Limit Level exceedances were observed. Two Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6 and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4.
8.4.2 Recommendations
With considerations on the construction activities and environment, the following recommendations were provided:
Air Quality
● All stockpiles should be covered by tarpaulin or kept wet by water spraying;
● All vehicles should be washed to remove any dusty materials before leaving the construction sites;
● The portion of road leading the construction site that is within 30m of a designated vehicle entrance or exit should be kept clear of dusty materials;
● During the dry season, sufficient water spraying should be provided at haul road to reduce dust emission; and
● Ensure proper functioning of the wheel wash facility.
Noise
● Mobile plant should be sited as far away from NSRs as possible;
● Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction should be orientated to direct noise away from the NSRs; and
● The construction activities should be better scheduled to reduce noise nuisance.
Water Quality
● Effluent should be discharged in accordance with the discharge licence conditions;
● Soil contaminated with chemicals/oils should be removed from site and the voids should be created filled with suitable materials; and
● Silt and debris should be removed from the temporary drainage channel regularly.
Waste Management
● General refuse should be stored in enclosed bins or compaction units separate from C&D and chemical wastes to minimise odour, pest and litter impacts.
● Reuse the excavated materials as far as practical to reduce the amount of waste disposal;
● C&D waste should be segregated and stored in different containers to other wastes to encourage the re-use or recycling of materials and their proper disposal;
● Ensure drip trays are provided for chemical containers to prevent leakage or soil contamination;
● All plants and vehicles should be properly maintained to prevent oil leakage; and
● Oil stains on soil should be cleared by disposal of contaminated soil.