Document reference:

370161 | 05|01 | A

Information class:

Standard

This document is issued for the party which commissioned it and for specific purposes connected with the above-captioned project only. It should not be relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose.

We accept no responsibility for the consequences of this document being relied upon by any other party, or being used for any other purpose, or containing any error or omission which is due to an error or omission in data supplied to us by other parties.

This document contains confidential information and proprietary intellectual property. It should not be shown to other parties without consent from us and from the party which commissioned it.

Contents

Executive summary  1

1 Introduction   2

1.1 Introduction  2

1.2 Project Organization  2

1.3 Environmental Status in the reporting period  2

1.4 Summary of EM&A Requirements  3

2 Impact Monitoring Methodology  5

2.1 Introduction  5

2.2 Air Quality  5

2.3 Construction Noise  7

2.4 Water Quality  9

2.5 Ecology  11

2.6 Landscape and Visual 12

3 Monitoring Results  15

3.1 Impact Monitoring Schedule  15

3.2 Results of Impact Monitoring  15

4 Ecological Monitoring  37

4.1 Monitoring of Birds  37

4.2 Monitoring of Herpetofauna  38

4.3 Monitoring of Dragonflies and Butterflies  38

4.4 Monitoring of Mammals  38

4.5 Monitoring of Water Quality  38

4.6 Management Activities  39

4.7 Summary  39

5 Landscape and Visual 41

5.1 Site Inspections  41

5.2 Construction Phase Audit Summary  41

6 Environmental Site Inspection and Audit 43

6.1 Site Inspection  43

6.2 Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status  43

6.3 Status of Environmental Licences and Permits  43

6.4 Recommended Mitigation Measures  44

7 Report on Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions  45

7.1 Record of non-compliance of Action and Limit Levels  45

7.2 Record on Environmental Complaints Received  46

7.3 Record on Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution  46

7.4 Review of Reasons for and Implications of Non-compliance, Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions  46

7.5 Follow-up Actions Taken  46

7.6 Cumulative Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions  47

8 Future Key Issues  48

8.1 Site Preparatory Works and Construction Works for the Coming Month  48

8.2 Key Issues for the Coming Months  48

8.3 Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Month  48

8.4 Conclusions and Recommendations  49

9 References  51

9.1 List of References  51

Appendices  55

A. Project Organization Chart 57

B. Tentative Construction Programme  (not used) 59

C. Action and Limit Levels for Construction Phase  61

D. Event and Action Plan for Air Quality, Noise, Water Quality and Landscape & Visual 63

E. Calibration Certificates  69

F. Graphical Plots of the Monitoring Results  71

G. Weather Conditions during the Monitoring Period  73

H. Ecological Monitoring Conducted  75

I. Summary of Bird Surveys conducted  77

J. Summary of Herpetofauna, Mammal and Insect Surveys Conducted  83

K. Summary of Water Quality Monitoring associated with Ecological Monitoring conducted  87

L. Environmental Mitigation Measures - Implementation Status  89

M. Landscape and Visual Audit Photos  95

Tables

Table 1.1: Summary of Impact EM&A Requirements  3

Table 1.2: Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Reporting Month  4

Table 2.1: Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration  5

Table 2.2: Air Monitoring Stations  5

Table 2.3: TSP Monitoring Equipment 6

Table 2.4: Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration  8

Table 2.5: Noise Monitoring Stations  8

Table 2.6: Noise Monitoring Equipment 8

Table 2.7: Water Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration  9

Table 2.8: Water Quality Monitoring Stations  9

Table 2.9: Water Quality Monitoring Equipment 10

Table 2.10: Analytical Methods applied to Water Quality Samples  10

Table 2.11: Detection Limits for Water Quality Determinants  10

Table 2.12: Summary of Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring for the Wo Shang Wai Wetland Restoration Area (WRA) 12

Table 2.13: Construction and Operation Phase Audit Checklist 13

Table 2.14: Proposed Construction Phase Mitigation Measures  13

Table 2.15: Proposed Operation Phase Mitigation Measures  14

Table 3.1: Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results  15

Table 3.2: Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results  16

Table 3.3: Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results  17

Table 3.4: Summary of Water Quality Monitoring Results  18

Table 4.1: Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area under EM&A Manual 40

Table 5.1: Construction and Operation Phase Audit Summary  41

Table 6.1: Summary of Site Inspections and Recommendations  43

Table 6.2: Status of Environmental Submissions, Licences and Permits  43

Table 7.1: Summary of Exceedances in Water Quality  45

Table 7.2: Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution  47

Table 8.1: Tentative Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Next Reporting Month  49

Figures

Figure 1.1         General Layout Plan of the Project Site

Figure 2.1         Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Figure 2.2         Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations

Figure 2.3         Locations of Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Figure 4.1         Survey Area and Transect Walked

Figure 4.2         Water Quality Monitoring Locations for Ecological Monitoring

Executive summary

Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (“MMHK”) has been commissioned 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.

This is the 168^th 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 April 2024.

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 L_eq) in the reporting month.

During April 2024, a total of 22 Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH, 10 Limit Level exceedances of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS for water quality were observed. Seven Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH and nine Limit Level exceedances of DO were recorded at MP3; three Action Level exceedances of pH, one Limit Level exceedance of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS were recorded at MP4; six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP5; and six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6.

Implementation of Mitigation Measures

Site audits were carried out on 3, 11, 19 and 24 April 2024 to confirm the implementation measures undertaken by the Contractor in the reporting month. The outcomes of the site audits 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.

Future Key Issues

Site works scheduled to be commissioned in the coming three months include regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area including adjusting the water level, if required, and removal of unwanted species in the pond. No major heavy 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 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.

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 April 2024.

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, Project works undertaken include:

● General site maintenance work

● Regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area (including monitoring the water level and removal of unwanted species in the pond), as indicated in Section 4.6.

There were no heavy 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	Daytime: 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 were within the Project construction site. 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	GMWS 2310 Accu-vol
Calibrator	TE-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 Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:

● Set POWER to “ON”, push BATTERY button, make sure that the meter’s 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 meter’s indication is 0).

● Push the knob at SENSI ADJ position and set the meter’s 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.

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 L_eq(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 Spring	Façade
NSR5	Outside House No. 1, Ventura Avenue, Royal Palms*	Façade
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 was within the Project construction site. All monitoring data at NSR5 from June 2018 is measured at the new monitoring location.

2.3.3 Monitoring Equipment

Integrating Sound Level Meter was 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 (L_eq) and percentile sound pressure level (L_x). 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	Larson Davis CAL200

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.

● Façade 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 L_eq, 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 landowner.

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	21K101468 15M100005 21G105356 21K101469
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 (YSL ProDSS) 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 ºC 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 were taken at three water depths, namely, 1m below water surface, mid-depth and 1m above stream bed/pond bed, except where the water depth is 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 ºC. 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 were monitored within the Project Area and Assessment Area during the wetland and residential construction phase. This is 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 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	Daytime: 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 contractor’s 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 of 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 contractor’s 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 3, 11, 19 and 24 April 2024 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/m^3)			Range (mg/m^3)	Action Level (mg/m^3)	Limit Level (mg/m^3)
		1^st Result	2^nd Result	3^rd Result
ASR1
02-Apr-24	13:23	38	40	44	20-93	378	500
05-Apr-24	08:41	30	32	42
10-Apr-24	08:18	27	28	27
16-Apr-24	08:27	29	20	22
22-Apr-24	09:05	93	88	53
26-Apr-24	13:04	24	21	25
ASR2A
02-Apr-24	08:53	50	43	46	17-84	357	500
05-Apr-24	13:20	31	34	40
10-Apr-24	13:01	18	19	21
16-Apr-24	12:56	24	17	17
22-Apr-24	09:07	73	84	65
26-Apr-24	13:22	24	25	27
ASR3
02-Apr-24	09:18	42	37	46	20-81	358	500
05-Apr-24	13:02	32	34	42
10-Apr-24	13:18	30	27	25
16-Apr-24	13:15	29	26	20
22-Apr-24	09:25	77	81	66
26-Apr-24	13:03	20	21	26
ASR4
02-Apr-24	13:41	42	49	47	19-86	372	500
05-Apr-24	08:47	21	23	32
10-Apr-24	09:32	27	27	23
16-Apr-24	08:52	27	25	19
22-Apr-24	13:28	86	74	55
26-Apr-24	09:13	20	19	22

3.2.1.2 24-hour TSP

Results of 24-hour TSP at the four monitoring locations are summarised in 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/m^3)	Range (mg/m^3)	Action Level (mg/m^3)	Limit Level (mg/m^3)
ASR1
02-Apr-24	36	29-63	226	260
05-Apr-24	56
10-Apr-24	63
16-Apr-24	44
22-Apr-24	34
26-Apr-24	29
ASR2A
02-Apr-24	40	36-51	213	260
05-Apr-24	51
10-Apr-24	51
16-Apr-24	50
22-Apr-24	39
26-Apr-24	36
ASR3
02-Apr-24	33	26-45	205	260
05-Apr-24	38
10-Apr-24	45
16-Apr-24	38
22-Apr-24	30
26-Apr-24	26
ASR4
02-Apr-24	44	36-77	237	260
05-Apr-24	66
10-Apr-24	77
16-Apr-24	64
22-Apr-24	45
26-Apr-24	36

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
02-Apr-24	16:16	45	48	40	75
10-Apr-24	14:29	50	52	44
16-Apr-24	11:26	48	49	43
22-Apr-24	16:13	50	53	44
NSR3
02-Apr-24	15:25	42	44	38	75
10-Apr-24	13:40	45	48	42
16-Apr-24	10:37	47	48	42
22-Apr-24	15:21	48	49	42
NSR5
02-Apr-24	14:37	47	49	41	75
10-Apr-24	10:52	52	53	47
16-Apr-24	09:47	50	52	43
22-Apr-24	14:30	50	53	46
NSR7
02-Apr-24	13:49	66	68	64	75
10-Apr-24	10:04	66	68	64
16-Apr-24	08:57	67	68	64
22-Apr-24	13:36	69	70	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 (ºC)	pH	Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L)	DO (%)	Turbidity (NTU)	BOD (mg/L)^(1)	Suspended Solids (mg/L)^(1)
MP3
02/04/2024	27.0	7.3	4.7	59.8	11.5	5	13
05/04/2024	26.6	7.4	3.6	44.6	37.0	9	56
08/04/2024	26.8	7.6	6.6	82.4	33.1	9	50
10/04/2024	26.8	7.5	5.7	71.5	25.6	9	41
12/04/2024	26.9	7.6	5.8	73.0	38.7	15	52
15/04/2024	28.8	8.0	8.6	111.7	22.2	14	33
17/04/2024	29.1	8.3	7.2	93.9	35.0	13	59
19/04/2024	27.4	8.0	5.3	67.2	23.7	10	32
22/04/2024	27.0	7.8	5.7	71.2	33.3	9	50
24/04/2024	26.0	7.8	5.6	69.4	31.1	8	41
26/04/2024	25.9	7.9	5.4	66.2	31.9	7	40
29/04/2024	29.6	8.6	8.8	115.6	29.0	9	34
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<6.85	-	>64	-	>65
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<6.65	-	>67	-	>66
MP4
02/04/2024	25.2	6.8	3.4	40.9	43.0	3	57
05/04/2024	26.0	6.9	5.4	67.3	15.6	6	20
08/04/2024	25.3	6.9	4.3	52.8	13.9	7	22
10/04/2024	26.3	6.8	4.8	60.4	12.2	6	21
12/04/2024	25.0	7.0	4.0	49.8	14.7	6	16
15/04/2024	28.1	7.0	5.2	67.6	16.9	7	19
17/04/2024	28.2	7.4	5.0	64.1	22.3	7	34
19/04/2024	26.0	7.2	4.0	44.3	28.0	6	33
22/04/2024	26.7	7.7	5.9	70.4	17.6	4	19
24/04/2024	25.4	7.7	7.3	89.0	32.9	<2	29
26/04/2024	25.1	7.5	5.8	70.2	29.1	3	33
29/04/2024	27.3	7.6	5.1	64.1	21.5	4	24
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<3.91	-	>60	-	>50
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.82	-	>64	-	>53
MP5
02/04/2024	26.6	7.2	5.0	61.5	28.4	8	51
05/04/2024	26.3	7.2	6.3	78.4	14.8	2	15
08/04/2024	26.7	7.0	4.7	59.6	11.6	3	18
10/04/2024	26.4	7.1	5.3	66.5	17.3	3	24
12/04/2024	27.2	7.4	7.2	91.2	13.1	<2	17
15/04/2024	28.4	7.3	6.9	88.1	29.0	4	26
17/04/2024	29.3	8.0	7.3	96.3	24.2	4	39
19/04/2024	26.1	7.8	6.9	85.5	22.7	6	31
22/04/2024	26.5	7.6	6.6	82.5	17.8	3	26
24/04/2024	25.5	7.6	6.5	79.1	28.8	<2	23
26/04/2024	24.9	7.7	6.4	76.9	21.2	2	26
29/04/2024	27.8	7.6	5.7	73.0	11.8	3	11
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<4.13	-	>81	-	>66
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.87	-	>84	-	>69
MP6
02/04/2024	26.7	7.2	6.7	84.2	42.7	5	64
05/04/2024	26.1	7.2	6.6	81.8	13.9	2	14
08/04/2024	26.6	7.1	5.0	62.8	11.2	3	14
10/04/2024	26.6	7.0	5.0	62.7	16.4	2	22
12/04/2024	27.3	7.3	7.2	90.5	14.6	<2	16
15/04/2024	28.1	7.3	7.1	91.5	23.7	3	30
17/04/2024	29.4	7.9	7.3	94.8	25.2	<2	33
19/04/2024	26.1	7.8	6.8	85.0	23.8	6	32
22/04/2024	26.5	7.6	6.4	80.1	15.6	2	21
24/04/2024	25.6	7.6	6.4	78.4	25.9	<2	20
26/04/2024	25.0	7.7	6.6	80.3	20.4	<2	26
29/04/2024	27.8	7.6	5.6	71.8	12.2	3	12
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) For the Limit Level of DO, 1-percentile of baseline data is adopted as it is greater than 2mg/L. (Refer to Baseline Monitoring Report)

(3) Values in Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.

(4) Values Underlined and in Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.

3.2.3.1 Exceedance Investigation and Findings

During April 2024, a total of 22 Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH, 10 Limit Level exceedances of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS for water quality were observed. Seven Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH and nine Limit Level exceedances of DO were recorded at MP3; three Action Level exceedances of pH, one Limit Level exceedance of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4; six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP5; and six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6.  

Exceedance of pH and DO at MP3

Exceedances of the Action Level of pH were observed on 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 24 and 26 April 2024. Exceedances of the Limit Level of pH were observed on 17 and 29 April 2024. Exceedances of the Limit Level of DO were observed on 2, 5, 8, 10, 12, 19, 22, 24 and 26 April 2024.

As understood, the fish pond near the site (represented by MP3) is separated from the open ditch by the pond bund (since commencement of construction phase EM&A monitoring in May 2010) and from the construction site by the WRA (since it was completed in November 2010). No direct discharge from the project site to the fish pond was observed. It is noted as well that there have been no heavy construction activities in the reporting period.

Mitigation measures for water quality protection, including the provision of wastewater treatment facilities (with sedimentation tank and AquaSed) and proper drainage system that separates from the WRA, have been implemented (see Photo 1 & 2). No adverse impact on the fish pond near the site was observed, including on the days with exceedance of water quality parameters.

According to the results of the baseline water quality monitoring conducted prior to the commencement of construction works, the pH recorded at MP3 ranged from 7.7 to 8.6. The recorded pH exceedance (7.6 – 8.6) is therefore considered to be within or close to the range of natural variations at this location.

It is also noted from AFCD's Environmental Management of Pond Fish Culture (EMPFC) guidelines from its Series of Good Aquaculture Practice that the pH level of fishpond water should be between 6 and 8.5 and for good water quality DO levels should be maintained above 4 mg/L. The recorded exceedance value for pH was within the guideline recommendations and most of the recorded values for DO were above the recommended minimum. Aerators were observed on all days with DO exceedance so as to mitigate low DO levels. Nevertheless, 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.

It is therefore concluded that the pH and DO exceedances at MP3 were possibly due to localised natural variations and external factors such as pond fish culture activities in the fishpond represented by MP3, which are not related to project activities.

Exceedance of pH, DO and SS at MP4, pH in MP5 and pH in MP6

Exceedances of the Action Level of pH were observed on 22, 24 and 29 April 2024 at MP4. Exceedances of the Limit level of DO and SS were also observed on 2 April 2024 at MP4. Exceedances of the Action Level of pH were observed on 17, 19, 22, 24, 26 and 29 April 2024 at MP5 and MP6.

On the day of DO and SS exceedance at MP4, some growth of water plant and floating vegetation was observed (see Photos 15). It is possible that excessive growth of vegetation and fallen leaves may have impeded the normal flow of ditch water resulting in localised accumulations of SS.  Excessive growth of vegetation and its degradation may have also led to a decrease in the DO level in the water. It is believed that the SS and DO exceedance at MP4 were probably due to localised natural variations, water plant growth and its degradation, and external activities unrelated to the project.

On the days of pH exceedance at MP5 and MP6, the pH levels were ranged from 7.6 to 8.0. 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 MP5 and MP6 were due to the natural variations.

Conclusion

As a result, the abovementioned exceedances were unlikely to be due to the project works and therefore not considered to be related to the project.

Photo 1	Installation of barrier at the drainage channel to intercept site runoff and pump the wastewater to the sedimentation tanks prior to wastewater treatment facilities (AquaSed) (near discharge outlet to the northern ditches)
	19 April 2024
Photo 2	Wastewater treatment facilities (AquaSed, sedimentation tanks) inside the site (near discharge outlet to the northern ditches)
	19 April 2024
Photo 3	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 2 April 2024
Photo 4	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 5 April 2024
Photo 5	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 8 April 2024
Photo 6	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 10 April 2024
Photo 7	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 12 April 2024
Photo 8	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 15 April 2024
Photo 9	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 17 April 2024
Photo 10	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 19 April 2024
Photo 11	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 22 April 2024
Photo 12	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 24 April 2024
Photo 13	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 26 April 2024
Photo 14	Appearance of the water body at MP3 on 29 April 2024
Photo 15	Appearance of the water body at MP4 on 2 April 2024
Photo 16	Appearance of the water body at MP4 on 22 April 2024
Photo 17	Appearance of the water body at MP4 on 24 April 2024
Photo 18	Appearance of the water body at MP4 on 29 April 2024
Photo 19	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 17 April 2024
Photo 20	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 19 April 2024
Photo 21	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 22 April 2024
Photo 22	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 24 April 2024
Photo 23	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 26 April 2024
Photo 24	Appearance of the water body at MP5 on 29 April 2024
Photo 25	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 17 April 2024
Photo 26	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 19 April 2024
Photo 27	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 22 April 2024
Photo 28	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 24 April 2024
Photo 29	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 26 April 2024
Photo 30	Appearance of the water body at MP6 on 29 April 2024

4 Ecological Monitoring

4.1 Monitoring of Birds

This report documents surveys conducted in the Survey Area between 1 and 30 April 2024. 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, swallows and birds of prey). Further, notable bird observations during other surveys or site inspections were also recorded.

Bird surveys were conducted on a weekly basis. A total of 42 bird species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during regular surveys in the reporting month. Among them 18 were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence.  Within the WRA, 41 bird species were recorded in the reporting month. Among them 18 were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence including two of the three target species (Little Egret and Chinese Pond Heron).  

The WRA attracts several species of conservation importance, including Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), Great Egret (Ardea alba), Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus), Yellow Bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis), Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), Black Kite (Milvus migrans), Greater Painted-snipe (Rostratula benghalensis), Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia), Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) and Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus). Yellow Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater Painted-snipe, Pied Kingfisher, White-throated Kingfisher and Collared Crow are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Local Concern” in 2002. Grey Heron, Great Egret, Little Egret and Chinese Pond Heron are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Potential Regional Concern” in 2002. Black Kite and Common Greenshank are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Regional Concern” in 2002.

Greater Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis) was regularly recorded in the WRA (mainly on the non-vegetated island of Cell 3). It was suspected that the species might attempt to breed within the WRA. The status of the Greater Painted Snipe will be closely monitored before conducting any weeding work on the island of Cell 3.

Water level of Cell 3 has raised from 120cm (9 April) to 160cm (30 April) after heavy rainfalls in the late April. Sluice gate between Cell 3 and Cell 4 was opened to discharge water from Cell 3 to Cell 4 to maintain lower water level of Cell 3, so as to keep the island of Cell 3 well-exposed for water bird usage.

A summary of survey data is provided in Appendix I.

4.2 Monitoring of Herpetofauna

One nighttime herpetofauna survey was conducted on 16 April 2024 and one day time herpetofauna survey was conducted on 23 April. Herpetofauna recorded during other surveys or site inspection works were recorded as ‘outside survey’.

Two species of amphibian (Brown Tree Frog and Asiatic Painted Frog) and one species of reptile (Bowring’s Gecko) were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) in the reporting month.

Within the WRA, three species of amphibian (Brown Tree Frog, Asiatic Painted Frog and Ornate Pygmy Frog) and one species of reptile (Bowring’s Gecko) were recorded during regular surveys.

A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.

4.3 Monitoring of Dragonflies and Butterflies

Two odonate and butterfly survey was conducted on 9 and 30 April 2024. Odonates and butterflies recorded during other surveys or site inspection works were recorded as ‘outside survey’.

10 odonate and seven butterfly species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) in the reporting month, out of which six odonate species and two reptile species were also recorded outside regular surveys. One additional odonate species was recorded  outside regular surveys. Among them the odonate species Coastal Glider (Macrodiplax cora) was listed by Fellowes et al. as “Local Concern” in 2002.

Within the WRA, 17 odonate species and 12 butterfly species were recorded in the reporting month, out of which two odonate species and one reptile species were also recorded outside regular surveys. Two additional odonate species were recorded outside regular 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 faunal surveys. Any mammal species encountered during site inspections or other habitat management works were recorded as ‘outside survey’.

One mammal species was recorded both in the Survey Area (excluding WRA) and within the WRA.

A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.

4.5 Monitoring of Water Quality

Regular water level monitoring works were conducted on 9 April 2024, additional water level monitoring was conducted on 30 April 2024 since water level of Cell 1, Cell 2 and Cell 4 had reached action levels in early April 2024.

The water levels in the reporting month ranged between 115cm and 185cm during the water level monitoring works. Since the water levels of Cell 1, Cell 2 and Cell 4 had reached action level in April 2024, monitoring efforts will be doubled in May 2024.

The water level of the Cells allowed wetland birds to use them as foraging site and attracted bird such as Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) and Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) to forage. The shallower areas along the edges of ponds and islets attracted ardeids such as Great Egret (Ardea alba), as well as the target species Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus). These areas were also used by other wetland-dependent birds as foraging and/or perching sites, such as White-breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus), Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia), Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) and Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos). The current water level will be kept for wetland bird usage.   

In-situ water quality monitoring of all other parameters was conducted on 17 April 2024. Water samples were also collected on 17 April 2024 for laboratory measurement.

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

Regular vegetation management activities undertaken at the site in April 2024 primarily involved removal of excessive grass and exotic species along Cell bunds, main access road and open water areas of Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3 and Cell 4.     

Fallen leaves along the main access road of Cell 3 and Cell 4 were swept or blown aside and formed thicker piles of plant materials on both sides of the main access road. These piles were used to attract herpetofauna and butterflies.  

Vegetation along the main access road and the edge of Cell bunds provided foraging and roosting habitats for breeding birds, as well as nectar sources for butterflies and rooting sites of dragonflies. Pruning will be kept to a minimum if the branches do not block the passage.  

Vegetations of the islands of Cell 3 and Cell 4 were cleared in April 2024 to maintain the non-vegetated habitat.

4.6.2 Wildlife Management

During the site inspection work in April 2024, no active Red Imported Fire Ant nest was recorded. Any active nest of the Red Imported Ant identified in the following months will be treated with AFCD approved pesticide.

Egg masses of the Apple Snails (Pomacea canaliculata) found along the man-made structures of the WRA (e.g. PVC pipes, sluice gates between all Cells, concrete structures of all Cells and concrete walls of Cell 4) were cleared by hand.

Egg masses of the Apple Snails growing on aquatic vegetation of Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3 and Cell 4 were cleared by hand.

Apple Snails were collected from aquatic vegetation and let dry on the main access road during vegetation management works. 

Mitigation actions have been taken in the WRA during the survey period to increase the WRA utilization by wetland dependent species and birds, including:

1. Controlling the vegetation at Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3 and Cell 4; and

2. Controlling the water level at Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3 and Cell 4.

4.7 Summary

Ecological monitoring during April 2024 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:

Table 4.1: Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area under EM&A Manual

Species	Survey Area (excluding WRA)	WRA
Birds	42	41
Birds (of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence)	18	18
Amphibians	2	3
Reptiles	1	1
Mammals	1	1
Odonates	10	17
Butterflies	7	12

Survey findings indicate that the ponds within the Survey Area supported numbers and diversity of wetland-dependent birds typical of fishpond areas. The WRA continues to attract wetland dependent fauna and serves as a buffer between the residential portion and the fishponds in the north.

Two of the three target species Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) were observed foraging along the shallow water areas (including the edge of the cells and non-vegetated islets) or perching on tall vegetations within the WRA.    

Dense and tall vegetations along the edge of the main access road also attracted insectivorous birds, such as Prinias (Prinia spp.) and Dusky Warbler (Phylloscopus fuscatus). The vegetations also act as nighttime roosts for diurnal birds. These vegetation stands will be kept provided that the branches do not overgrow and obscure the main access road. During the vegetation clearance some of these areas were only treated with minimum trimming to preserve suitable habitats for the wildlife. 

The reedbed and adjacent vegetations (mainly Cattail stand) were used by Yellow Bittern as breeding sites according to previous reports. Cattail (Typha sp.) is an exotic species and requires regular clearance to prevent over growing and reducing the area of open water and reedbed habitats. In March 2024 most of the Cattail stands within the WRA were cleared before the breeding season of the Yellow Bittern. The area cleared will allow more space for the growth of reedbed. The reedbed and adjacent vegetations will be closely monitored before conducting any clearance work in the coming months.

Fallen leaves scattered along the main access road were swept aside and formed a thicker layer of fallen plant materials. These piled-up plant materials are used to attract amphibians and reptiles within the WRA.  

Site inspection works conducted in April 2024 confirmed that all tracks and paths in the WRA were intact and well-maintained by regular weeding and tree trimming.

Site inspection works conducted in April 2024 confirmed that all fences between the fish ponds and the WRA, and the hoarding between the construction site and the WRA were intact.

5 Landscape and Visual

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 3 and 19 April 2024 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 reference 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. Trees such as tree no. AA34, 36 & 291 were observed to have poor health condition. Regular watering and close monitoring of these trees are recommended.
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 have been established, with the ponds are being seasonally filled with rainwater.  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.  Seedling trees and shrubs have been established at the margins of the wetland cells. Some invasive species and undesirable exotic species have 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. Tree no. 56, 59, 71 and 292 were removed due to safety concern. Removal of overgrown weeds, unplanned tree seedlings and invasive climbers in the space behind screen noise barrier needs to be undertaken on a monthly basis as they may inhibit the advance planting. Regular removal of invasive species (i.e., apple snails, Leucaena leucocephala, Mikania micrantha, Mimosa pudica, Bidens alba, Ludwigia erecta, Sesbania cannabina, etc.) in WRA should be undertaken. Water level of Cell 1, 2 and 4 were observed low, close monitoring should be undertaken and adjustment should be conducted if necessary. The growth of shrubs / seedlings on the north side of the WRA remains fair.

6 Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

6.1 Site Inspection

The ET had carried out construction phase weekly site inspections on 3, 11, 19 and 24 April 2024. 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	Contractor’s Responses / Action(s) Undertaken	Close-out (Date)
Nil

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	2018-027-A-1 (20 July 2020)	Valid
WPCO	Discharge Licence	WT00037436-2021 (21 Apr 2021)	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 continue to be implemented at the site:

Air Quality

● Access roads should be sprayed with water or dust suppression chemical to maintain the entire road surface wet or paved.

Water Quality

● Site effluent should be discharged in accordance with the 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 Report on Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

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 April 2024, a total of 22 Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH, 10 Limit Level exceedances of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS for water quality were observed. Seven Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH and nine Limit Level exceedances of DO were recorded at MP3; three Action Level exceedances of pH, one Limit Level exceedance of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4; six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP5; and six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6.

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)^(1)
MP3
02/04/2024	7.3	4.7	11.5	13
05/04/2024	7.4	3.6	37.0	56
08/04/2024	7.6	6.6	33.1	50
10/04/2024	7.5	5.7	25.6	41
12/04/2024	7.6	5.8	38.7	52
15/04/2024	8.0	8.6	22.2	33
17/04/2024	8.3	7.2	35.0	59
19/04/2024	8.0	5.3	23.7	32
22/04/2024	7.8	5.7	33.3	50
24/04/2024	7.8	5.6	31.1	41
26/04/2024	7.9	5.4	31.9	40
29/04/2024	8.6	8.8	29.0	34
Action Level	<5.5 or >7.5	<6.85	>64	>65
Limit Level	<4.0 or >8.0	<6.65	>67	>66
MP4
02/04/2024	6.8	3.4	43.0	57
22/04/2024	7.7	5.9	17.6	19
24/04/2024	7.7	7.3	32.9	29
29/04/2024	7.6	5.1	21.5	24
Action Level	<5.5 or >7.5	<3.91	>60	>50
Limit Level	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.82	>64	>53
MP5
17/04/2024	7.9	7.3	25.2	33
19/04/2024	7.8	6.8	23.8	32
22/04/2024	7.6	6.4	15.6	21
24/04/2024	7.6	6.4	25.9	20
26/04/2024	7.7	6.4	21.2	26
29/04/2024	7.6	5.7	11.8	11
Action Level	<5.5 or >7.5	<4.13	>81	>66
Limit Level	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.87	>84	>69
MP6
17/04/2024	7.9	7.3	25.2	33
19/04/2024	7.8	6.8	23.8	32
22/04/2024	7.6	6.4	15.6	21
24/04/2024	7.6	6.4	25.9	20
26/04/2024	7.7	6.6	20.4	26
29/04/2024	7.6	5.6	12.2	12
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)          For the Limit Level of DO, 1-percentile of baseline data is adopted as it is greater than 2mg/L. (Refer to Baseline Monitoring Report)

(3)          Values in Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.

(4)          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 above-mentioned 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

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, regular spot checks 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 (April 2024)	0	0	0
From 12 May 2010 to end of the reporting month (April 2024)	8	0	0

8 Future Key Issues

8.1 Site Preparatory Works and Construction Works for the Coming Month

Site works to be commissioned in the coming month include:

● Regular maintenance work for the Wetland Restoration Area (including adjusting the water level, if required, and removal of unwanted species in the pond)

● No heavy 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 May 2024 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 L_eq) 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 April 2024, a total of 22 Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedance of pH, 10 Limit Level exceedances of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS for water quality were observed. Seven Action Level exceedances of pH, two Limit Level exceedances of pH and nine Limit Level exceedances of DO were recorded at MP3; three Action Level exceedances of pH, one Limit Level exceedance of DO and one Limit Level exceedance of SS was recorded at MP4; six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP5; and six Action Level exceedances of pH were recorded at MP6.

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.

9 References

9.1 List of References

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. 2019. Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/conservation/hkbiodiversity/database/popup_record.php?id=748, 2019 -07-09

BirdLife International. 2017. Important Bird Areas factsheet: Inner Deep Bay and Shenzhen River catchment area. <http://www.birdlife.org> on 06/07/2017.

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

Chan, S.K.F., K.S. Cheung, C.Y. Ho, F.N Lam & W.S. Tam, 2005. A Field Guide to the Amphibians of Hong Kong. Cosmos Books Ltd., Hong Kong.

Fellowes, J.F., M.W.N. Lau, D. Dudgeon, G.T. Reels, G.W.J. Ades, G.J. Carey, B.P.L. Chan, R.C. Kendrick, K.S. Lee, M.R. Leven, K.D.P. Wilson, Y.T. Yu, 2002.Wild Animals to Watch: Terrestrial and Freshwater Fauna of Conservation Concern in Hong Kong. Memoirs of the Hong Kong Natural History Society 25:122-159.

Hong Kong Biodiversity Information Hub.                                                     <https://bih.gov.hk/en/species-database/index.html?taxon_group_id=4>

Hong Kong Bird Watching Society 2020. List of Hong Kong Birds - 2020-03. <www.hkbws.org.hk>.

Hong Kong Observatory Climate Information Service. <https://www.hko.gov.hk/en/wxinfo/pastwx/mws/mws.htm>

Horiuchi, S., Odawara, T., Yonemura, S., Hayashi, Y., Kawaguchi, M., Asada, M., Kato, M. & Yasuhara, K. (2007, November). Floating structure using waste tires for water environmental remediation. In Scrap Tire Derived Geomaterials-Opportunities and Challenges: Proceedings of the International Workshop IW-TDGM 2007. p. 291. CRC Press.

IUCN 2023. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2023-7. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 1st July 2023

Karsen, S., M.W.N. Lau & A. Bogadek, 1998. Hong Kong Amphibians and Reptiles. Provisional Urban Council, Hong Kong.

List of National Protected Animal (updated on 5 Feb 2021) http://www.gov.cn/xinwen/2021-02/09/5586227/files/e007df5cdb364bcdbcb89d169047d6c5.pdf

Lo, P. Y. F. and W.L. Hui, 2004. Hong Kong Butterflies. Hong Kong, Cosmos Books Ltd.

Mott, 2008. WSW Environmental Monitoring and Audit Manual (March 2008).

Mott, 2008. WSW Environmental Impact Assessment Report Volumes 1 to 3 (March 2008).

Mott, 2008. WSW Wetland Restoration Plan (March 2008).

Shek, C. T. 2006. A Field Guide to the Terrestrial Mammals of Hong Kong. Friends of the Country Parks Cosmos Books Ltd., Hong Kong.

Tam, T.W., K.K. Leung, B.S.P. Kwan, K.K.Y. Wu, S.S.H. Tang, I.W.Y. So, J.C.Y. Cheng, E.F.M. Yuen, Y.M. Tsang, and W.L. Hui, 2011. The Dragonflies of Hong Kong (1^st edition). Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Friends of Country Parks and Cosmos Books Ltd., Hong Kong.

Wilson, K.D.P., Tam, T.W., Kwan, B.S.P., Wu, K.K.Y., Wong, B.S.F., Wong J.K. 2004. Field Guide to the Dragonflies of Hong Kong. AFCD, Friends of Country Park and Cosmos Books Ltd. Hong Kong.

Young, J.J. & Yiu, V., 2002. Butterfly Watching in Hong Kong. Wan Li Book Co. Ltd., Hong Kong.

Zheng Guangmei and Wang Qishan (1998) (Edited), China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals: Aves, Science Press, Beijing.