1 Introduction

1.1 Background

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/D) issued by EPD on 20 March 2013.

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, while the 30-month establishment period of the WRA was concluded in August 2012 – this indicated that planting works as scheduled in the approved Wetland Restoration and Creation Scheme (WRCS; Nov 2009) was 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. The current valid EP (EP-311/2008/D) includes specific mitigation measures to minimise certain identified noise impacts during the operation phase.

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.

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 November 2014.

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:

¡ Site formation

¡ Foundation work

¡ Pond drainage management in the Wetland Restoration Area (to lower the water level and remove unwanted species in the pond)

The Construction Works Programme of the Project is provided in Appendix B. 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
Air Quality	1-Hour TSP	ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3, ASR4	3 times every 6 days
Noise	L_eq, 30min	NSR1, NSR3, NSR5, NSR7	Weekly
Water Quality	Dissolved Oxygen (DO), temperature, pH, suspended solids (SS) and Biological 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 November, and twice per month during Apr to Aug
	Herpetofauna	Within the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m	Once per month during Apr to Nov
	Water quality of Wetland Restoration Area (WRA)	WRA	After filling of WRA with water, monthly for in situ water quality and every size 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 and water quality are shown in Appendix D.

The monitoring schedule for the reporting month is shown in Table 1.2 below

Table 1.2: Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for November 2014

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
ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3 & ASR4	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	Works Site Boundary
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	Works Site Boundary

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	GMW 25
1-hr TSP monitoring
Portable direct reading dust meter	AM510 SidePak Personal Aerosol Monitor Dust Trak 8520

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.

· 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 L_eq, 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	L_eq, L₉₀ & L₁₀	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	The monitoring station was located within the work site boundary.	Free-field
NSR7	The monitoring station was located near the boundary wall of the house of Mai Po San Tsuen.	Free-field

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 (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

Monitoring Stations	Equipment Model
	Integrating Sound Level Meter	Calibrator
NSR1	Rion NL-52	Rion NC-73
NSR3
NSR5
NSR7

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

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 below.

Table 2.9: Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Model	Equipment/Serial Number
Conductivity, Dissolved oxygen, pH, Salinity and Temperature Measuring Meter	YSI Professional Plus	09K100735
Turbidity Meter	Hach 2100Q IS/Hach 2100Q	09120C000514
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 and pH measuring equipment

A portable, weatherproof multiparameter instrument (YSI Professional Plus) was used in the monitoring. It can be capable for measuring dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and temperature 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 45 degree Celsius; and

· pH value of 0-14 with 0.1 as the base unit.

Turbidity Measurement Instrument

Portable and weatherproof turbidity meter (HACH model 2100Q) was used during impact monitoring. It has a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0-1000 NTU. Response of the sensor was checked with certified standard turbidity solutions before the start of measurement.

Global Positioning System

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	1 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 127:1993, "Guide to field and 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 3m, 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 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	Once per month during April to November.
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
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 Measure
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 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 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 Measure
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 ETWBTC 3/2006.
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 4, 11, 18 and 26 November 2014 in 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-hr 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 (μg/m³)			Range (μg/m³)	Action Level (μg/m³)	Limit Level (μg/m³)
Monitoring Date	Start Time	1^st Result	2^nd Result	3^rd Result	Range (μg/m³)	Action Level (μg/m³)	Limit Level (μg/m³)
ASR1
04-Nov-14	12:42	128	130	125	72 – 130	378		500
10-Nov-14	12:41	82	79	89
14-Nov-14	12:44	91	86	82
20-Nov-14	12:48	72	77	76
26-Nov-14	12:52	108	104	99
ASR2A
04-Nov-14	08:43	106	111	113	62– 113	357		500
10-Nov-14	08:43	86	74	80
14-Nov-14	08:40	62	69	74
20-Nov-14	08:45	70	68	62
26-Nov-14	08:39	86	89	79
ASR3
04-Nov-14	08:23	112	115	119	62 – 119	358		500
10-Nov-14	08:25	76	77	84
14-Nov-14	08:20	73	65	62
20-Nov-14	08:23	67	70	64
26-Nov-14	08:19	89	75	73
ASR4
04-Nov-14	12:30	123	127	129	70 – 129	372		500
10-Nov-14	12:33	86	90	92
14-Nov-14	12:30	85	87	89
20-Nov-14	12:31	70	74	79
26-Nov-14	12:38	97	105	100

3.2.1.2 24-hr 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 (μg/m³)	Range (μg/m³)	Action Level (μg/m³)	Limit Level (μg/m³)
ASR1
04-Nov-14	79	56-127	226	260
10-Nov-14	69
14-Nov-14	127
20-Nov-14	61
26-Nov-14	56
ASR2A
04-Nov-14	64	64-80	213	260
10-Nov-14	78
14-Nov-14	80
20-Nov-14	71
26-Nov-14	66
ASR3
04-Nov-14	88	70-113	205	260
10-Nov-14	70
14-Nov-14	113
20-Nov-14	73
26-Nov-14	88
ASR4
04-Nov-14	90	80-93	237	260
10-Nov-14	81
14-Nov-14	93
20-Nov-14	90
26-Nov-14	80

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 & Range of Noise Levels, dB(A)			Limit Level for L_eq (dB)
Monitoring Date	Start Time	L_eq	L₁₀	L₉₀	Limit Level for L_eq (dB)
NSR1					> 75
04-Nov-14	09:00	54	56	44
10-Nov-14	09:01	52	55	48
20-Nov-14	09:02	54	58	45
26-Nov-14	08:47	54	58	45
NSR3
04-Nov-14	09:48	50	51	43
10-Nov-14	09:49	51	53	45
20-Nov-14	09:50	53	57	45
26-Nov-14	09:35	54	57	46
NSR5
04-Nov-14	13:09	50	53	44
10-Nov-14	13:08	49	53	45
20-Nov-14	13:14	50	53	43
26-Nov-14	13:19	49	53	44
NSR7
04-Nov-14	13:57	64	67	63
10-Nov-14	13:58	64	67	62
20-Nov-14	14:04	65	67	61
26-Nov-14	14:09	65	67	59

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 (NT)	BOD (mg/L) ⁽¹⁾	Suspended Solids (mg/L)
MP3
03/11/2014	25.1	7.5	7.3	88.6	14.2	2	14.5
05/11/2014	25.0	7.5	7.3	88.4	12.5	2	15.5
07/11/2014	24.0	7.5	7.3	87.0	16.8	3	19.5
10/11/2014	24.5	7.5	7.2	85.8	25.0	2	19.5
12/11/2014	23.9	7.5	7.1	84.6	29.9	3	27.5
14/11/2014	22.9	7.5	7.4	85.7	8.6	<2	11
17/11/2014	23.3	7.5	7.3	85.6	30.0	10	22.5
19/11/2014	22.1	7.5	7.0	85.9	42.8	5	35
21/11/2014	21.9	7.5	6.5	79.1	25.7	8.5	27
24/11/2014	21.6	7.5	7.9	90.1	33.9	6.5	32.5
26/11/2014	21.8	7.5	7.6	86.6	58.0	4	56
28/11/2014	23.1	7.5	7.5	87.7	29.3	3.5	24
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<6.85	-	>64	-	>65
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<6.65	-	>67	-	>66

MP4
03/11/2014	24.9	7.4	6.8	82.4	8.3	<2	11.5
05/11/2014	24.7	7.4	7.1	85.8	5.5	<2	<2
07/11/2014	24.4	7.4	7.4	90.3	9.7	<2	11.5
10/11/2014	24.1	7.4	7.0	83.3	22.2	3	16
12/11/2014	24.2	7.4	7.1	85.4	8.5	<2	7.5
14/11/2014	23.3	7.4	7.1	83.7	10.9	<2	7.5
17/11/2014	23.5	7.4	7.3	85.7	11.1	3.5	12.5
19/11/2014	22.5	7.4	6.7	84.5	16.5	3	17.5
21/11/2014	21.6	7.4	6.2	75.5	13.1	<2	13
24/11/2014	21.9	7.4	8.1	92.8	11.1	8	10.5
26/11/2014	22.1	7.4	8.0	91.5	4.8	4	<2
28/11/2014	22.9	7.4	7.3	84.7	7.8	<2	5
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<3.91	-	>60	-	>50
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.82	-	>64	-	>53

MP5
03/11/2014	24.4	7.4	7.5	89.9	12.6	2.5	14.5
05/11/2014	24.4	7.4	7.3	88.2	9.6	<2	7.5
07/11/2014	24.2	7.4	7.0	83.7	14.5	2	19
10/11/2014	24.3	7.4	7.3	88.1	27.0	2	21.5
12/11/2014	24.4	7.4	7.5	90.5	23.5	2	22.5
14/11/2014	23.6	7.4	7.5	89.1	18.6	2.5	18
17/11/2014	22.9	7.4	7.5	87.7	22.8	6	17
19/11/2014	21.9	7.4	6.7	83.0	26.3	4	33
21/11/2014	22.5	7.4	6.3	78.5	19.6	6	22
24/11/2014	22.0	7.4	7.5	86.0	24.5	5.5	27
26/11/2014	22.2	7.4	7.4	85.5	40.6	4	50
28/11/2014	23.3	7.4	7.1	83.9	20.6	3	19
Action Level	-	<5.5 or >7.5	<4.13	-	>81	-	>66
Limit Level	-	<4.0 or >8.0	<3.87	-	>84	-	>69

MP6
03/11/2014	25.0	7.4	7.2	87.3	11.6	<2	14
05/11/2014	24.6	7.4	6.9	83.7	8.9	<2	9.5
07/11/2014	24.5	7.4	6.8	82.6	13.7	2	17.5
10/11/2014	24.4	7.4	6.8	82.7	26.0	2	20
12/11/2014	24.3	7.4	7.3	87.5	16.4	<2	17.5
14/11/2014	23.5	7.4	7.0	83.7	20.1	2	14.5
17/11/2014	23.1	7.4	7.1	83.3	24.8	6	18
19/11/2014	22.3	7.4	5.4	69.6	32.1	4	30.5
21/11/2014	22.3	7.4	6.8	84.2	21.7	6	22.5
24/11/2014	22.1	7.4	7.1	82.5	29.7	4	24
26/11/2014	21.0	7.4	7.3	82.2	22.5	2	23
28/11/2014	23.4	7.4	6.8	80.6	21.5	3	20
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 “ : BOD value is too low to indicate (<2mg/L).

(2) Values Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.

(3) Values Underlined and Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.

3.2.3.1 Exceedance Investigation and Findings

During November 2014, one exceedance of DO was observed at MP3. No exceedance was observed at MP4, MP5 and MP6.

The Event and Action Plan in Appendix D was followed under these cases of exceedances.

From investigation, construction activities during the period of exceedance included mainly site formation and foundation work, as well as pond drainage management in the Wetland Restoration Area (to lower the water level and remove unwanted species in the pond). It was observed that the Contractor has implemented water quality mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA report, including the provision of temporary drainage facility and associated treatment facility. Sand bags are in place in the temporary drainage channel to enhance the desilting efficiency. The Contractor further enhanced the water quality mitigation measures by erecting several segments of rock bunds and installing a barrier at the discharge outlet to desilt and divert site runoff to sedimentation tanks and wastewater treatment facilities (Aquased), which will ensure all site runoff is treated to satisfactory quality before discharging into the northern ditches.

Exceedance of DO at MP3

During the reporting month at MP3, exceedance of the Action/Limit Level of DO was observed on one monitoring dates. As understood, the fish pond near the site (represented by MP3) was being separated from the construction site by the WRA since November 2010, so the exceedances were not considered to be related to the construction activities. The exceedances of DO may be due to external factors such as pond fish culture activities which were out of the control of the project.

Conclusion

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

4 Ecological Monitoring

4.1 Monitoring of Birds

This report documents surveys conducted in the Survey Area between 1 and 30 November 2014. 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 47 bird species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA), 28 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence. Within the WRA, 35 bird species were recorded, 17 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependent species, including two of the target species (i.e. Little Egret, Chinese Pond Heron) were recorded in regular survey. The WRA continues to attract a number of species of conservation importance, including Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis and Common Greenshank, Tringa nebularia in regular survey and additional night search. Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis and Common Greenshank, Tringa nebularia are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Local Concern” in 2002.

4.2 Monitoring of Herpetofauna

One day time herpetofauna survey were conducted in the period. No amphibian species and reptile species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) nor within the WRA in regular survey and additional search.

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

4.3 Monitoring of Dragonflies and Butterflies

Odonatas and butterflies surveys were conducted on a monthly basis according to the EM&A Manual. No odonata species and butterfly species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during regular survey and additional search. Within the WRA, five odonata species were recorded, while two butterfly species were recorded

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 mammals were recorded in the Survey Area nor within the WRA during regular survey.

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

4.5 Monitoring of Water Quality

Water level of Cell 2 and Cell 4 reached the action level within the reporting period. Monitoring data are presented in Appendix K.

4.6 Management Activities

4.6.1 Vegetation Management

Removal of exotic vegetation in all cells was undertaken; these included but not limited to Ipomoes 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.

4.7 Summary

Ecological monitoring during November 2014 was carried out according to the survey methodology and frequency outlined in the EM&A Manual.

Summary of survey findings is listed in Table 4.1 below:

Table 4.1: Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area

Species	Survey Area (excluding WRA)		WRA
Birds (total)		47	35
Birds (of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence)		28	17
Amphibians		0	0
Reptiles		0	0
Mammals		0	1
Odonates		0	5
Butterflies		0	0

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 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 14 and 26 November 2014 to confirm the implementation of mitigation measures at construction stage.

5.2 Construction Phase Audit Summary

The audit was undertaken with references to the specific checklists provided in Tables 2.13 – 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 to 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 neighboring 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. The trees continue to re-establish well.

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 4 – 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 soiling for the advance planting strip has been completed. The soil placement and grading for each of the wetland restoration areas 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 total number of trees that will reach a minimum of 10m in the advance planting strip meets the contract requirements. The tree species are all from the approved list. This planting should achieve the required screening effect within the required time period. (Appendix M Photo 3 – Table 2.14 CM6 refers)

Some of the trees that were identified as dead in previous month or having defects (i.e. extensive bark damage, cavities, fungal growths, etc.) still need to be replaced with new specimens. Some of the recently planted trees are still in poor condition, but are showing small signs of graduate improvement

Seedling trees and shrubs, have been established at the margins of the wetland cells. Some additional fill-in planting has been undertaken.

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, although treatment of damaged / defective trees needs urgent attention.

Some of the trees that were identified as dead in previous month still need to be replaced with new specimens. Trees with significant defects (i.e. extensive bark damage, cavities, fungal growths, etc.) need to be replaced with new specimens.

Most overhanging trees from adjacent property that were affecting the strip planting have been pruned back.

Many trees are growing (and have become dependent for support) on the noise barrier frame, and are being deformed and damaged. Trees should either be physically separated from the structure, or the structure modified to avoid impacting on trees.

Pruning of tall shrubs (e.g. Ligustrum sinensis) needs to be undertaken regularly.

Removal of extensive growth of weeds and invasive climbers in the space behind screen noise barrier needs to be undertaken on a monthly basis as they may be inhibiting the advance planting.

Phragmites australis reeds are now occupying at least 80% of the reed bed areas within the WRC (as per design), but have also spread to the non-reed bed areas and are out-competing the intended planting. Management of this vegetation is required if the intended planting design is to be achieved.

Regular horticultural maintenance (grass cutting, weeding, watering etc.) in the shrubs and tree seedling areas around the WRA cells is being undertaken. A comprehensive tree survey has just been undertaken by the new landscape contractor.

The growth of shrubs / seedlings on the north side of WRA1 remains fair.

6 Environmental Site Inspection and Audit<

Revision	Date	Originator	Checker	Approver	Description	Standard
A	12 December 2014	Edward Leung / Brandon Wong	Terence Kong	Eric Ching	Issue to Client