Executive Summary
1 Introduction
1.1 Project Background
1.2 Purpose of this Report
1.3 Structure of the Report
2 Air Quality Monitoring
2.1 Sampling & Testing
Methodology
2.2 Monitoring Methodology and Quality Assurance/
Quality Control (QA/QC)
2.3 24 Hour TSP and RSP Air Quality Monitoring
2.4 1 Hour TSP Air Quality Monitoring
3 Water Quality Monitoring
3.1 Monitoring Locations &
Frequency
3.2 Sampling & Testing
Methodology
3.3 QA/QC Requirements
3.4 Baseline Monitoring Results
3.5 Action & Limit Levels
4 Ecology
4.1 Terrestrial
Walkover Survey
4.2 Baseline
Dolphin
Monitoring
5 Conclusions
Annex
B Not
Used
List of Tables & Figures
Table
4.4 Derived
Value of Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL)
Executive Summary
Under
Contract No. HY/2012/08, Dragages – Bouygues Joint Venture (DBJV) is commissioned by
the Highways Department (HyD) to undertake the design
and construction of the Northern Connection Sub-sea Tunnel Section (including
the northern landfall) of TM-CLK Link (“the Project”). ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) has been
appointed as the Environmental Team (ET) for the Contract.
According to the requirements of the
Environmental Monitoring and Audit Manual (EM&A Manual) which is prepared
for the TM-CLKL Project (Register No.: AEIAR- 146/2009), baseline
monitoring has been undertaken prior to commencement of the construction works
of the Contract. This Baseline
Monitoring Report presents findings of the following baseline monitoring
components:
Ÿ
Air Quality;
Ÿ Water Quality; and
Ÿ Ecology (baseline dolphin monitoring).
Prior to the commencement of the constructions,
HyD employed environmental specialists under Agreement No. CE35/2011 (EP) and Contract No. HY/2011/02 to conduct
baseline environmental monitoring of air quality, noise, water quality and
ecology to facilitate early commencement of construction of Hong Kong Boundary
Crossing Facility (HKBCF) reclamation works and TM-CLKL advance Southern Landfall reclamation works
under Contract No. HY/2010/02. The baseline
environmental monitoring was undertaken between September and November 2011 in
accordance with requirements in the EM&A Manuals for the Hong Kong Link
Road (HKLR), HKBCF and TM-CLKL. A
Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report (Version C) for Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao
Bridge Hong Kong Projects – Investigation (hereafter referred to as “BEMR”) was
prepared to fulfill the Environmental Permits’ conditions for HKBCF (including
TM-CLKL northern landfall) Project ([1]).
In the present baseline monitoring report,
relevant baseline monitoring results for water quality and ecology (baseline
dolphin monitoring) presented in the BEMR have been adopted for this Project. In addition, baseline air quality
monitoring has been undertaken in the period of October 2013 to collect
baseline air monitoring data for the Project which was not covered by the 2011
baseline monitoring.
The baseline monitoring works undertaken for
air quality, water quality and ecology for the Project are presented in Tables
1-2 below.
Air Quality
Table 1 Baseline
Air Quality Monitoring Period
|
Monitoring
Stations
|
Parameters,
unit
|
Baseline Monitoring Period*
|
|
ASR1, ASR5, AQMS1, AQMS2 and ASR10
|
Ÿ
1-hour
Total Suspended Particulates (1-hour TSP, µg/m3), 3 times per day
Ÿ
24-hour
Total Suspended Particulates (24-hour TSP, µg/m3), daily for
24-hour
|
17/10/2013 – 31/10/2013
|
|
Notes:
*1-TSP and 24-hr TSP were measured at all
monitoring stations between 17 and 30 October 2013, except for 24-hr TSP at
AQMS1 which was measured between 18 to 31 October 2013. Due to electricity
failure at AQMS1 during the measurement of 24-hr TSP on 17 October 2013,
24-hr TSP measurement for AQMS1 was conducted between 18 and 31 October 2013
|
Details of the baseline air quality monitoring are presented in Section 2. The collected data were used to
establish the Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates
and 24-hour Total Suspended Particulates for the impact monitoring throughout
the construction of the Contract.
Whilst the complete baseline report was submitted after works
commencement on 1 November 2013, the majority of construction activities under Contract No. HY/2012/08 are marine
works, namely dredging activities for the temporary seawall construction. Thus no significant dust emission source
is anticipated during the initial stage of the construction works under this
Contract.
Table 2 Baseline
Water Quality Monitoring Period
|
Monitoring
Stations
|
Parameters,
unit
|
Baseline Monitoring Period (1)
|
|
IS12, IS13, IS14, IS15, CS4, CS6, SR8, SR9 and SR10A
|
Ÿ
Temperature(°C)
Ÿ
pH(pH unit)
Ÿ
Turbidity
(NTU)
Ÿ
Water depth
(m)
Ÿ
Salinity (ppt)
Ÿ
Dissolved
Oxygen (DO) (mg/L and % of saturation)
Ÿ
Suspended solids (SS) (mg/L)
|
6/10/2011 – 31/10/2011
|
|
Notes:
(1) 3
days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, for a period of 4 weeks prior
to the commencement of the marine works)
|
Details of the baseline water quality
monitoring are presented in Section 3. The collected data were used to
establish the Action and Limit Levels for Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Turbidity and
Suspended Solids (SS) for the impact monitoring throughout the construction of
the Contract.
Ecology
Table 3 Baseline Dolphin
Monitoring Period
|
Date of Baseline Dolphin Monitoring
|
|
1
|
05/09/2011
|
|
2
|
07/09/2011
|
|
3
|
16/09/2011
|
|
4
|
23/09/2011
|
|
5
|
06/10/2011
|
|
6
|
10/10/2011
|
|
7
|
13/10/2011
|
|
8
|
17/10/2011
|
|
9
|
28/10/2011
|
|
10
|
01/11/2011
|
|
11
|
02/11/2011
|
|
12
|
05/11/2011
|
|
13
|
06/11/2011
|
|
14
|
07/11/2011
|
Baseline dolphin monitoring was undertaken
from September to November 2011.
Details on the monitoring methodology, locations and findings are
presented in Section 4. Determination of Action and Limit Levels
for dolphin monitoring is also presented under the same section.
1
Introduction
According to
the findings of the Northwest New Territories (NWNT) Traffic and Infrastructure
Review conducted by the Transport Department, Tuen Mun Road, Ting Kau Bridge, Lantau Link and North Lantau
Highway would be operating beyond capacity after 2016. This forecast has been based on the
estimated increase in cross boundary traffic, developments in the Northwest New
Territories (NWNT), and possible developments in North Lantau,
including the Airport developments, the Lantau
Logistics Park (LLP) and the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macao Bridge (HZMB). In order to cope with the anticipated
traffic demand, two new road sections between NWNT and North Lantau – Tuen Mun
– Chek Lap Kok Link
(TM-CLKL) and Tuen Mun
Western Bypass (TMWB) are proposed.
An
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of TM-CLKL was prepared in accordance
with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-175/2007) and the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process
(EIAO-TM). The EIA Report was submitted under the
Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) in August 2009. Subsequent to the approval of the EIA
Report (EIAO Register Number AEIAR-145/2009), an Environmental Permit
(EP-354/2009) for TM-CLKL was granted by the Director of Environmental
Protection (DEP) on 4 November 2009, and EP variation (EP-354/2009A) was issued
on 8 December 2010.
Under Contract No. HY/2012/08, Dragages – Bouygues Joint Venture (DBJV) is commissioned by
the Highways Department (HyD) to undertake the design
and construction of the Northern Connection Sub-sea Tunnel Section (including
the northern landfall) of TM-CLK Link (“the Project”). ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) has been
appointed as the Environmental Team (ET) for the Contract.
Layout of the
Contract components is presented in Figure 1.1.
The purpose of
this Baseline Monitoring Report is to determine the baseline levels of air
quality, water quality and ecology (particularly Chinese White Dolphin
Monitoring) at the designated monitoring locations around the Project
area prior to the commencement of any construction works of the Project. Such baseline conditions will be used as
the basis for assessing environmental impacts, if any, and compliance
monitoring during the construction works of the Project.
Under the requirement
of Condition 4.3 of the EP, the
Baseline Monitoring Report shall be prepared and submitted to the Director of
the Environmental Protection (DEP) at least two weeks before the commencement
of any construction works of the Project.
Following this
introductory section, the structure of the report is as follows:
Section 2:
Air Quality Monitoring
Summarises the air quality monitoring locations and frequency, monitoring
methodology and baseline monitoring results, and establish the Action and Limit
Levels in accordance with the EM&A
Manual.
Section 3: Water Quality Monitoring
Summarises the water quality monitoring locations and frequency, monitoring
methodology and baseline monitoring results, and establish the Action and Limit
Levels in accordance with the EM&A
Manual.
Section 4:
Ecology – Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring
Summarises the Chinese White Dolphin monitoring locations and frequency,
monitoring methodology and baseline monitoring results, and establish the
Action and Limit Levels in accordance with the EM&A Manual.
Section 5:
Conclusion
Concludes the representativeness of the baseline monitoring results for the
Project.
2
Air Quality Monitoring
The baseline air quality monitoring was
conducted between 17 and 31 October 2013.
During the baseline air quality monitoring, 1-hour and 24-hour Total
Suspended Particulates (TSP) were measured at all the monitoring locations
between 17 and 30 October 2013, except for 24-hr TSP at AQMS1 which was
measured between 18 and 31 October 2013 due
to electricity failure at AQMS1 during the measurement of 24-hr TSP on 17
October 2013. Monitoring of 1-hour TSP was
carried out at least three times per day while that of 24-hour TSP was
conducted daily for fourteen (14) consecutive days.
In addition, as per the requirements under Condition 2.4 of EP-354/2009/A,
the Enhanced TSP Monitoring Plan has been prepared under Contract No. HY/2012/08.
Details of the monitoring plan are presented in the Enhanced TSP Monitoring Plan ().
Although the complete baseline report was submitted after works
commencement on 1 November 2013, the majority of construction activities under Contract No. HY/2012/08 are marine works,
namely dredging activities for the temporary seawall construction. Thus no significant dust emission source
is anticipated during the initial stage of the construction works under this
Contract.
2.1.1
Monitoring Parameters & Frequency
The
proposed monitoring stations for the baseline air quality monitoring are shown
in Figure 2.1.
Monitoring parameters, monitoring period and frequency are detailed in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1 Monitoring
Frequency and Parameters of Air Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Air quality
monitoring station
|
Location
|
Landuse
|
No.
of Storey
|
Parameter
|
Period
|
Frequency
|
|
ASR1
|
Tuen Mun
Fireboat Station
|
Office
|
1
|
1-hour TSP
24-hour TSP
|
0700-1900 for 1-hour TSP
24 hours for 24-hour TSP
|
3 times/ day for 1-hour TSP
Daily for 24-hour TSP
|
|
ASR5
|
Pillar
Point Fire Station
|
Office
|
5
|
|
AQMS1
|
Previous
River Trade Golf
|
Bare
ground
|
0
|
|
AQMS2
|
Bare
ground at Ho Suen Street
|
Bare
ground
|
0
|
|
ASR10
|
Butterfly
Beach Park
|
Recreational
uses
|
0
|
2.1.2
Monitoring Equipment
High Volume Samplers (HVS) were used to carry
out 24-hour TSP monitoring. Direct reading dust meter were also used to measure
1-hour average TSP levels. The
1-hour sampling was determined periodically by HVS to check the validity and
accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method.
Wind data monitoring equipment was set at rooftop
of ASR5 (Pillar Point Fire Station) for logging wind speed and wind direction
such that the wind sensors are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by
building. The wind data monitoring
equipment is recalibrated at least once every six months and the wind
directions are divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each. .
Table
2.1 summarizes the equipment used in the baseline air
quality monitoring programme. Copies of the calibration certificates
for the equipment are presented in Annex
A2.
Table 2.2 Air
Quality Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment
|
Model
and Make
|
|
HVS Sampler
|
GMWS-2310 ACCU-VOL
|
|
Calibrator
|
CM-AIR-43 (S/N 9833620)
|
|
1-hour TSP Dust Meter
|
Sibata LD-3B
|
|
Wind Anemometer
|
MetPak, WindSonic
|
2.2
Monitoring Methodology and Quality Assurance/ Quality Control (QA/QC)
The air temperature, precipitation and the relative humidity data was
obtained from Hong Kong Observatory where the wind speed and wind direction
were recorded by the installed Wind Anemometer. The general weather conditions (i.e. sunny,
cloudy or rainy) were recorded by the field staff’s observation on the
monitoring days.
2.3
24 Hour TSP and RSP Air Quality Monitoring
Instrumentation
High volume Samplers (HVS) completed with appropriate sampling inlets
were employed for air quality monitoring.
Each sampler was composed of a motor, a filter holder, a flow controller
and a sampling inlet and its performance specification complies with that
required by USEPA Standard Title 40, Code of Federation Regulations Chapter 1
(Part 50).
HVS
Installation
The following guidelines were adopted during the installation of HVS:
• Sufficient
support was provided to secure the samplers against gusty wind.
• No
two samplers were placed less than 2 meters apart.
• The
distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, was at least twice
the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler.
• A
minimum of 2 meters of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses was
required for rooftop samples.
• A
minimum of 2 meters separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally
was required.
• No
furnaces or incineration flues were nearby.
• Airflow
around the sampler was unrestricted.
• The
samplers were more than 20 meters from the drip line.
• Any
wire fence and gate, to protect the sampler, should not cause any obstruction
during monitoring.
Filter
Preparation
Fiberglass filters were used [Note: these filters have a collection
efficiency of larger than 99% for particles of 0.3µm diameter]. A HOKLAS accredited laboratory was
responsible for the preparation of 24-hr conditioned and pre-weighed filter
papers for monitoring team.
All prepared 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; the relative humidity (RH) was <50% and not variable by more
than ±5%. A convenient working RH
was 40%.
Operating/ Analytical Procedures
Operating/analytical procedures for the air quality monitoring were
highlighted as follows:
Ÿ
Prior to the commencement of the dust sampling, the flow rate of the HVS
was properly set (between 1.1 m3/min. and 1.4 m3/min.) in accordance with the
manufacturer's instruction to within the range recommended in USEPA Standard
Title 40, CFR Part 50.
Ÿ
The power supply was checked to ensure the sampler worked properly.
Ÿ
On sampling, the sampler was operated for 5 minutes to establish thermal
equilibrium before placing any filter media at the designated air quality
monitoring station.
Ÿ
The filter holding frame was then removed by loosening the four nuts and
carefully a weighted and conditioned filter was centered with the stamped
number upwards, on a supporting screen.
Ÿ
The filter was aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an
airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter. Then the filter holding frame was
tightened to the filter holder with swing bolts. The applied pressure should be
sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.
Ÿ
The shelter lid was closed and secured with the aluminum strip.
Ÿ
The timer was then programmed. Information was recorded on the record
sheet, which included the starting time, the weather condition and the filter
number (the initial weight of the filter paper can be found out by using the
filter number).
Ÿ
After sampling, the filter was removed and sent to the laboratory for
weighing. The elapsed time was also
recorded.
Ÿ
Before weighing, all filters were equilibrated in a conditioning
environment for 24 hours. The
conditioning environment temperature should be between 25°C and 30°C and not
vary by more than ±3°C; the relative humidity (RH) should be < 50% and not
vary by more than ±5%. A convenient working RH is 40%. Weighing results were used for further
analysis of TSP concentrations collected by each filter.
Maintenance and Calibration
The following maintenance/calibration was required for the HVS:
Ÿ
The high volume motors and their accessories were properly maintained.
Appropriate maintenance such as routine motor brushes replacement and
electrical wiring checking were made to ensure that the equipment and necessary
power supply are in good working condition.
Ÿ
All HVS were calibrated (five point calibration) using Calibration Kit
prior to the commencement of the baseline monitoring and thereafter at
bi-monthly intervals.
2.4
1 Hour TSP Air Quality Monitoring
Measuring Procedures
The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter are in accordance with
the
Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:
Ÿ
The 1-hour dust meter is placed at least 1.3 meters above ground.
Ÿ
Set POWER to “ON” and make sure that the battery level was not flash or
in low level.
Ÿ
Allow the instrument to stand for about 3 minutes and then the cap of
the air sampling inlet has been released.
Ÿ
Push the knob at MEASURE position.
Ÿ
Set time/mode setting to [BG] by pushing the time setting switch. Then,
start the background measurement by pushing the start/stop switch once. It will
take 6 sec. to complete the background measurement.
Ÿ
Push the time setting switch to change the time setting display to
[MANUAL] at the bottom left of the liquid crystal display. Finally, push the
start/stop switch to stop the measuring after 1 hour sampling.
Ÿ
Information such as sampling date, time, count value and site condition
were recorded during the monitoring period.
Maintenance
and Calibration
The following maintenance/calibration is required for the 1-hour dust
meter;
Ÿ
Check and calibrate the meter by HVS to check the validity and accuracy
of the results measured by direct reading method at 2-month intervals
throughout all stages of the air quality monitoring.
2.4.1
Baseline Monitoring Results
The average
measured TSP levels for the five (5) air quality monitoring stations are
summarized in Table 2.3,
and the detailed monitoring data and graphical presentations are presented in Annex A1. No major dust emission sources was
observed in the vicinity of the monitoring stations during the baseline
monitoring. No other activities
influencing air quality were identified during the monitoring period, and the
weather conditions were generally sunny during the baseline monitoring period.
Table 2.3 Summary
of Baseline Air Quality Monitoring Results
|
Baseline Air Quality Monitoring Station
|
Average 24-hour TSP Level,
µg/m3 (range of data)
|
Average 1-hour TSP Level, µg/m3
(range of data)
|
|
ASR1
|
128
(66 – 173)
|
125
(65 – 182)
|
|
ASR5
|
167
(97 – 249)
|
138
(77 – 211)
|
|
AQMS1
|
127
(85 – 221)
|
131
(72 – 196)
|
|
AQMS2
|
166
(114 – 221)
|
135
(76 – 226)
|
|
ASR10
|
129
(65 – 181)
|
134
(70 – 215)
|
Meteorological
Data
Average
meteorological data (wind speed, wind direction, pressure temperature, humidity)
during the monitoring period was obtained from wind anemometer installed at
ASR5 (Pillar Point Fire Station) and results are presented in Annex A1.
2.4.2
Action & Limit Levels
The Action and
Limit Levels were determined in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual (Table
2.4)
and based on the baseline monitoring results, the proposed Action and Limit
Levels for Impact Air Quality Monitoring for 24-hour TSP (mg/m3) and 1-hour TSP (mg/m3) are summarized in Table 2.5.
Table 2.4 Action
and Limit Levels for Air Quality
|
Parameter
|
Action Level
|
Limit Level
|
|
24-hour
TSP Level in mg/m3
|
For
baseline level ≤ 200 mg/m³
Action
level = (Baseline*1.3+ Limit level )/2;
|
260
|
|
|
For
baseline level >200 mg/m³
Action
level = Limit level
|
|
1-hour
TSP Level in mg/m3
|
For
baseline level ≤ 384 mg/m³
Action
level = (Baseline*1.3+ Limit level )/2;
|
500
|
|
|
For
baseline level > 384 mg/m³
Action
level = Limit level
|
Table 2.5 Action
and Limit Levels for Impact Air Quality Monitoring
|
Parameter
|
Air Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Action Level (mg/m³)
|
Limit Level (mg/m³)
|
|
24-hour TSP
(mg/m3)
|
ASR1
|
213
|
260
|
|
|
ASR5
|
238
|
260
|
|
|
AQMS1
|
213
|
260
|
|
|
AQMS2
|
238
|
260
|
|
|
ASR10
|
214
|
260
|
|
1-hour TSP
((mg/m3)
|
ASR1
|
331
|
500
|
|
|
ASR5
|
340
|
500
|
|
|
AQMS1
|
335
|
500
|
|
|
AQMS2
|
338
|
500
|
|
|
ASR10
|
337
|
500
|
Table 2.6 Event
& Action Plan for Air Quality
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
ET (1)
|
IEC (1)
|
SOR(1)
|
Contractor
|
|
Action
Level
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.
Exceedance for one sample
|
1.
Identify the source.
2.
Inform the IEC and the SOR.
3.
Repeat measurement to confirm finding.
4.
Increase monitoring frequency to daily.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the
ET.
2. Check Contractor’s working method.
|
1. Notify Contractor.
|
1.
Rectify any unacceptable practice
2. Amend working methods if appropriate
|
|
2.
Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples
|
1.
Identify the source.
2.
Inform the IEC and the SOR.
3.
Repeat measurements to confirm findings.
4.
Increase monitoring frequency
to
daily.
5.
Discuss with the IEC and the Contractor on remedial actions required.
6.
If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with the
IEC and the SOR.
7.
If exceedance stops, cease
additional
monitoring.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the
ET.
2. Check the Contractor’s working method.
3. Discuss with the ET and the
Contractor
on possible remedial measures.
4. Advise the SOR on the effectiveness of
the proposed remedial measures.
5. Supervisor implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing.
2. Notify the Contractor.
3. Ensure remedial measures properly
implemented.
|
1. Submit proposals for remedial actions
to IEC within 3 working days of notification
2. Implement the agreed proposals
3. Amend proposal if appropriate
|
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
Limit
Level
|
ET (1)
|
IEC (1)
|
SOR(1)
|
Contractor
|
|
1. Exceedance
for
one sample
|
1. Identify the source.
2. Inform the SOR and the DEP.
3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding.
4. Increase monitoring frequency to
daily.
5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial
actions and keep the IEC, the DEP and the SOR informed of the results.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the
ET.
2. Check Contractor’s working method.
3. Discuss with the ET and the Contractor
on possible remedial measures.
4. Advise the SOR on the effectiveness of
the proposed remedial measures.
5. Supervisor implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing.
2. Notify the Contractor.
3. Ensure remedial measures are
properly
mplemented.
|
1.
Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance
2. Submit proposals for remedial actions
to IEC within 3 working days of notification
3. Implement the agreed proposals
4. Amend proposal if appropriate
|
|
2. Exceedance
for two or more consecutive samples
|
1. Notify the IEC, the SOR, the DEP
And
the Contractor.
2. Identify the source.
3. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings.
4. Increase monitoring frequency to
daily.
5. Carry out analysis of the Contractor’s
working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented.
6. Arrange meeting with the IEC and the
SOR to discuss the remedial actions to be taken.
7. Assess effectiveness of he
Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep the IEC, the DEP and the SOR informed of the
results.
8. If exceedance
stops, cease additional monitoring.
|
1. Discuss amongst the SOR, ET and the
Contractor on the potential remedial actions.
2. Review the Contractor’s remedial
actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the SOR
accordingly.
3. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing.
2. Notify the Contractor.
3. In consultation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented.
4.
Ensure remedial measures are
properly
implemented.
5. If exceedance
continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the
Contractor to stop that activity of work until the exceedance
is abated.
|
1.
Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance.
2. Submit proposals for remedial actions
to IEC within 3 working days of notification.
3. Implement the agreed proposals.
4. Resubmit proposals if problem still
not under control.
5.
Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the SOR until the exceedance is abated.
|
Note: ET – Environmental Team, IEC –
Independent Environmental Checker, SOR – Supervising Officer’s Representative
3
Water Quality Monitoring
The baseline
water quality monitoring undertaken by the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macao Bridge
Hong Kong Projects (HKZMB) between 6 and 31 October 2011 has included all
monitoring stations for the Project.
Thus, the baseline monitoring results and Action/Limit Level presented
in HKZMB Baseline Monitoring Report ()
are adopted for this Project.
The detail baseline water quality monitoring methodology and results are
presented in the following sections.
The locations
of the monitoring stations for the Project are shown in Figure 3.1
and detailed in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1 Locations
of Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Station ID
|
Type
|
Coordinates
|
|
|
|
Easting
|
Northing
|
|
IS12
|
Impact Station
|
813218
|
823681
|
|
IS13
|
Impact Station
|
813667
|
824325
|
|
IS14
|
Impact Station
|
812592
|
824172
|
|
IS15
|
Impact Station
|
813356
|
825008
|
|
CS4
|
Control /
Far Field Station
|
810025
|
824004
|
|
CS6
|
Control /
Far Field Station
|
817028
|
823992
|
|
SR8
|
Sensitive receiver (Gazettal beaches in Tuen Mun)
|
816306
|
825715
|
|
SR9
|
Sensitive receiver
(Butterfly Beach)
|
813601
|
825858
|
|
SR10A
|
Sensitive receiver
(Ma Wan FCZ)
|
823741
|
823495
|
In
accordance with the EM&A Manual and the HKZMB Baseline Monitoring Report,
baseline water quality monitoring was conducted at Impact stations, Control
stations and Sensitive Receivers specified in Table 3.1 three times per week at mid-flood (within + 1.75 hours of
the predicted time) and mid-ebb (within + 1.75 hours of the predicted time)
tides for four consecutive weeks prior to the commencement of marine
works. The interval between 2 sets
of monitoring was not less than 36 hours.
In
each monitoring day, two times per monitoring day during mid-ebb and mid flood
tides (within + 1.75 hours of the predicted time) at three depths (i.e. 1m below
surface, mid-depth and 1m above seabed, except where the water depth less than 6m,
mid-depth station may be omitted. Should
the water depth be less than 3m, only the mid-depth station was monitored)
3.2.1
Monitoring Parameters & Frequency
Table 3.2 summarizes the monitoring parameters, monitoring
period and frequencies of the water quality monitoring.
Table 3.2 Water
Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency
|
Monitoring
Stations
|
Parameters,
unit
|
Depth
|
Frequency
|
|
IS12
IS13
IS14
IS15
CS4
CS6
SR8
SR9
SR10A
|
Ÿ
Temperature(°C)
Ÿ
pH(pH unit)
Ÿ
Turbidity
(NTU)
Ÿ
Water depth
(m)
Ÿ
Salinity (ppt)
Ÿ
DO (mg/L
and % of
saturation)
Ÿ
SS (mg/L)
|
3 water depths: 1m
below sea surface,
mid-depth and 1m
above sea bed.
|
Baseline monitoring: 3 days
per week, at mid-flood and
mid-ebb tides, for a period of
4 weeks prior to the
commencement of the marine
works
|
|
|
|
If the water depth is
less than 3m, mid-depth
sampling only.
|
|
|
|
If water depth less
than 6m, mid-depth
may be omitted.
|
In addition to the parameters presented
in Table 3.2, monitoring location/position,
time, water depth, sampling depth, tidal stages, weather conditions and any
special phenomena or works underway nearby should also be recorded.
3.2.2
Monitoring Equipment
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and Temperature
Measurement Equipment
The instrument for measuring dissolved oxygen and
temperature was portable and weatherproof complete with cable, sensor,
comprehensive operation manuals and use DC power source. It was capable of measuring:
·
a dissolved oxygen level in
the range of 0-20 mg/L and 0-200% saturation; and
·
a temperature of 0-45
degree Celsius.
It has a
membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation complete with a
cable. Sufficient stocks of spare
electrodes and cables were available for replacement where necessary. Salinity compensation was a built-in in
the DO equipment.
Turbidity
Turbidity was measured in situ by the nephelometric
method. The instrument was portable
and weatherproof using a DC power source complete with cable, sensor and
comprehensive operation manuals.
The equipment was capable of measuring turbidity between 0-1000
NTU. The probe cable was not less
than 25m in length. The meter was calibrated in order to
establish the relationship between NTU units and the levels of suspended
solids. The turbidity measurement
was carried out on split water sample collected from the same depths of
suspended solids samples.
Sampler
A water
sampler, consisting of a transparent PVC or glass cylinder of a capacity of not
less than two litres which can be effectively sealed with cups at both ends was
used. The water sampler has a
positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until
released by a messenger when the sampler was at the selected water depth.
Water Depth Detector
A portable, battery-operated echo sounder was used for the determination
of water depth at each designated monitoring station.
pH
The
instrument was consisting of a potentiometer, a glass electrode, a reference
electrode and a temperature-compensating device. It was readable to 0.1pH in a range of 0
to 14. Standard buffer solutions of
at least pH 7 and pH 10 were used for calibration of the instrument before and
after use.
Salinity
A portable salinometer capable of recording
salinity within the range of 0-40 ppt was used for
salinity measurements.
Monitoring
Position Equipment
A hand-held or boat-fixed type digital Differential Global Positioning
System (DGPS) with way point bearing indication and Radio Technical Commission for maritime (RTCM) Type
16 error message ‘screen pop-up’ facilities (for real-time auto-display of
error messages and DGPS corrections from the Hong Kong Hydrographic Office), or
other equipment instrument of similar accuracy,was
used during marine water monitoring to ensure the monitoring vessel is at the
correct location before taking measurements.
Sample Container and Storage
Following collection, water
samples for laboratory analysis were stored in high density polythene bottles
(250ml/1L) with no preservatives added, packed in ice (cooled to 4°C without being frozen) and kept in dark
during both on-site temporary storage and shipment to the testing
laboratory. The samples were
delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible and the laboratory determination
works were started within 24 hours after collection of the water samples. Sufficient volume of samples was
collected to achieve the detection limit.
Calibration of In Situ Instruments
All in situ monitoring instruments were checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited
under HOKLAS or other international accreditation scheme before use, and
subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the
water quality monitoring programme.
Responses of sensors and electrodes were checked with certified standard
solutions before each use. Wet bulb
calibration for a DO meter was carried out before measurement at each
monitoring event.
For the on site calibration of field equipment (Multi-parameter
Water Quality System), the BS 1427:2009, "Guide to on-site test methods
for the analysis of waters" was observed.
Sufficient
stocks of spare parts were maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup monitoring equipment was also
being made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when
some equipment was under maintenance, calibration, etc.
Table
3.3 summarizes the equipment used in the baseline water quality
monitoring program. All the
monitoring equipment complied with the requirements set out in the EM&A
Documents. Copies of the
calibration certificates are attached in Annex C1.
Table 3.3 Water
Quality Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment
|
Model and
Make
|
Qty.
|
|
Water Sampler
|
Kahlsico Water-Bottle Model 135DW 150
|
4
|
|
Multi-parameter Water Quality System
|
YSI 6820-C-M/YSI 6920
|
6
|
|
Monitoring Position Equipment
|
“Magellan” Handheld GPS Model eXplorist GC
|
4
|
|
|
|
Instrumentation
A multi-parameter meters (Model YSI 6820-C-M /YSI 6920) were used
to measure DO, turbidity, salinity, pH and temperature for all captioned water
monitoring stations.
Operating/Analytical Procedures
At each measurement, two consecutive
measurements of DO concentration, DO saturation, salinity, turbidity, pH and
temperature were taken. The probes
were retrieved out of the water after the first measurement and then
re-deployed for the second measurement.
Where the difference in the value between the first and second readings
of each set was more than 25% of the value of the first reading, the reading
was discarded and further readings were taken.
Laboratory Analytical Methods
The testing of all parameters for all
stations was conducted by Wellab Ltd. (HOKLAS
Registration No.083) with comprehensive quality assurance and control
procedures in place in order to ensure quality and consistency in results. The testing method, reporting limit and
detection limit are provided in Table 3.4.
Table 3.4 Methods
for Laboratory Analysis for Water Samples
|
Determinant
|
Instrumentation
|
Analytical
Method
|
Reporting
Limit
|
Detection
Limit
|
|
Suspended Solids (SS)
|
Weighing
|
APHA 17e 2540D
|
0.5 mg/L(1)
|
0.5 mg/L
|
|
Note:
(1) Limit
of Reporting is reported as Detection Limit.
|
3.3
QA/QC Requirements
Calibration
of In Situ Instruments
All in situ monitoring instruments were
checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS
or other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently
re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality
monitoring programme. Responses of
sensors and electrodes were checked with certified standard solutions before
each use. Wet bulb calibration for
a DO meter was carried out before measurement at each monitoring event.
For the on-site calibration of field
equipment (Multi-parameter Water Quality System), the BS 1427:2009, "Guide
to on-site test methods for the analysis of waters" was observed.
Sufficient stocks of spare parts were
maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup monitoring equipment was also
being made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when
some equipment was under maintenance, calibration, etc.
Decontamination Procedures
Water sampling equipment used during the course of the monitoring programme was decontaminated by manual washing and rinsed
clean seawater/distilled water after each sampling event. All disposal equipment was discarded
after sampling.
Sampling Management and Supervision
All sampling bottles were labeled with the sample I.D (including the
indication of sampling station and tidal stage e.g. IS1_me_a), laboratory
number and sampling date. Water
samples were dispatched to the testing laboratory for analysis as soon as
possible after the sampling. All samples were stored in a cool box and kept at
less than 4°C but without frozen.
All water samples were handled under chain of custody protocols and
relinquished to the laboratory representatives at locations specified by the
laboratory. The laboratory
determination works were started within 24 hours after collection of water
samples.
Quality Control Measures for Sample Testing
Before each round of monitoring, a zero check in distilled water was
performed with the turbidity probe of YSI 6820-C-M /YSI 6920 and HANNA HI 8314. The probe was then calibrated with a
solution of known NTU.
QA/QC procedures as attached in Annex C2 are available for
the SS analyzed in the HOKLAS-accredited laboratory, WELLAB Ltd.
Baseline water quality monitoring was
conducted between 6 and 31 October 2011 for all monitoring stations. The monitoring results are shown in Annex C3. Graphical presentation of water quality
at the monitoring stations is given in Annex C4. Detailed weather conditions at the
monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period are shown in Annex
F. The monitoring schedule is shown in Annex
E.
During the baseline
monitoring period, no marine construction works were observed in the vicinity
of all monitoring stations. The
baseline monitoring results are thus considered representative of the ambient
water quality.
The Action and
Limit Levels were adopted from the HKZMB Baseline Report. The Action and Limit Levels for Impact
Monitoring of Water Quality for Dissolved Oxygen (DO, mg/L), Turbidity (NTU)
and Suspended Solids (SS, mg/L) are summarized in Table 3.5.
Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in
accordance with the Event and Action Plan, as provided in Table
3.6 should be carried out.
Table 3.5 Action
& Limit Levels for Water Quality
|
Parameter
|
Action Level#
|
Limit Level#
|
|
DO in mg/L (a)
|
Surface and
Middle
|
Surface and
Middle
|
|
|
5.0 mg/L
|
4.2 mg/L
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bottom
|
Bottom
|
|
|
4.7 mg/L
|
3.6 mg/L
|
|
Turbidity in
NTU (Depth-averaged (b), (c))
|
120% of
upstream control station at the same tide of the same day and 95%-ile of baseline data, i.e.,
27.5 NTU
|
130% of
upstream control station at the same tide of the same day and 99%-ile of baseline data, i.e.,
47.0 NTU
|
|
SS in mg/L
(Depth-averaged (b), (c))
|
120% of
upstream control station at the same tide of the same day and 95%-ile of baseline data, i.e.,
23.5 mg/L
|
130% of
upstream control station at the same tide of the same day and 10mg/L for WSD
Seawater Intakes at Tuen Mun
and 99%-ile of baseline data, i.e.,
34.4 mg/L
|
|
Notes:
|
|
|
|
# Baseline
data: data from HKZMB Baseline Water Quality Monitoring between 6 and 31
October 2011.
|
|
(a) For
DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result
is lower than the limits.
|
|
(b) “Depth-averaged”
is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths
|
|
(c) For
turbidity and SS, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when
monitoring result is higher than the limits.
|
|
(d) All
figures given in the table are used for reference only, and EPD may amend the
figures whenever it is considered as necessary
|
|
(e) The
1%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle DO
is 4.2 mg/L, whilst for bottom DO is 3.6 mg/L.
|
Table 3.6 Event
& Action Plan for Water Quality
|
Event
|
ET Leader
|
IEC
|
SOR
|
Contractor
|
|
Action level
being exceeded by one sampling day
|
Repeat in situ measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm findings;
Identify
source(s) of impact;
Inform IEC,
contractor and SOR;
Check
monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods.
|
Check
monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working methods.
|
Confirm
receipt of notification of non-compliance in writing;
Notify
Contractor.
|
Inform the
SOR and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;
Rectify
unacceptable practice;
Amend
working methods if appropriate.
|
|
Action level
being exceeded by two or more
consecutive sampling days
|
Repeat
measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm
findings;
Identify
source(s) of impact;
Inform IEC,
contractor, SOR and EPD;
Check
monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods;
Discuss
mitigation measures with IEC, SOR and Contractor;
Ensure
mitigation measures are implemented;
Increase the
monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance
of Action level;
|
Check
monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working method;
Discuss with
ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;
Review the
proposed mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the SOR
accordingly;
Supervise
the implementation of mitigation measures.
|
Discuss with
IEC on the proposed mitigation measures;
Ensure
mitigation measures are properly implemented;
Assess the
effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.
|
Inform the
Supervising Officer and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;
Rectify
unacceptable practice;
Check all
plant and equipment and consider changes of working methods;
Submit
proposal of additional mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of
notification and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR;
Implement
the agreed mitigation measures.
|
|
Limit level
being exceeded by one sampling day
|
Repeat
measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm
findings;
Identify
source(s) of impact;
Inform IEC,
contractor, SOR and EPD;
Check
monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods;
Discuss
mitigation measures with
IEC, SOR and
Contractor;
|
Check
monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working method;
Discuss with
ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;
Review the
proposed mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the SOR
accordingly.
|
Confirm
receipt of notification of failure in writing;
Discuss with
IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures;
Request
Contractor to review the working methods.
|
Inform the
SOR and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;
Rectify
unacceptable practice;
Check all
plant and equipment and consider changes of working methods;
Submit
proposal of mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of notification
and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR.
|
|
Limit level
being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days
|
Repeat
measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm
findings;
Identify
source(s) of impact;
Inform IEC,
contractor, SOR and EPD;
Check
monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods;
Discuss
mitigation measures with IEC, SOR
and Contractor;
Ensure
mitigation measures are implemented;
Increase the
monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance
of Limit level for two consecutive days;
|
Check
monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working method;
Discuss with
ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;
Review the
Contractor’s mitigation measures whenever necessary to assure their
effectiveness and advise the SOR accordingly;
Supervise
the implementation of mitigation measures.
|
Discuss with
IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures;
Request
Contractor to critically review the working methods;
Make
agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;
Ensure
mitigation measures are properly implemented;
Consider and
instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to slow down or to stop all or part of
the construction activities until no exceedance of
Limit level.
|
Take
immediate action to avoid further exceedance;
Submit
proposal of mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of notification
and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR;
Implement
the agreed mitigation measures;
Resubmit
proposals of mitigation measures if problem still not under control;
As directed
by the Supervising Officer, to slow down or to stop all or part of the
construction activities until no exceedance of
Limit level.
|
Note: ET – Environmental Team, IEC –
Independent Environmental Checker, SOR – Supervising Officer’s Representative
4
Ecology
Under Contract No. HY/2012/08, only marine works were involved within the
work boundary (Figure 1.1), thus terrestrial walkover survey is not
considered deemed necessary. In the
case of any land-based works involved under this Contract, a terrestrial
walkover survey where works to be undertaken will be conducted.
Baseline
dolphin monitoring was undertaken at Northwest Lantau (NWL) and Northeast Lantau
(NEL) under the Chinese White
Dolphin (CWD)
Service Contract No. HY/2011/02 for a period
of three months prior to the commencement of the
Contract. The baseline line-transect vessel surveys for dolphin monitoring were conducted in September,
October and November 2011 as shown in Table
4.1. Location of
dolphin transect survey is presented in Figure 4.1. Detailed monitoring results are
presented in Annex D.
Table 4.1 Date
of Baseline Dolphin Monitoring
|
No.
|
Date
|
Location
|
|
1
|
05/09/2011
|
W LANTAU + NW LANTAU
|
|
2
|
07/09/2011
|
NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU
|
|
3
|
16/09/2011
|
NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU
|
|
4
|
23/09/2011
|
W LANTAU + NW LANTAU
|
|
5
|
06/10/2011
|
NE LANTAU + NW LANTAU
|
|
6
|
10/10/2011
|
NW LANTAU +NE LANTAU
|
|
7
|
13/10/2011
|
NE LANTAU
|
|
8
|
17/10/2011
|
W LANTAU + NW LANTAU
|
|
9
|
28/10/2011
|
NW LANTAU + W LANTAU
|
|
10
|
01/11/2011
|
NW LANTAU +NE LANTAU
|
|
11
|
02/11/2011
|
W LANTAU + NE LANTAU
|
|
12
|
05/11/2011
|
NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU
|
|
13
|
06/11/2011
|
NE LANTAU
|
|
14
|
07/11/2011
|
NW LANTAU + W LANTAU
|
|
Notes:
* NW Lantau = Northwest Lantau Survey Area, NE Lantau = Northeast Lantau Survey Area, W Lantau = West Lantau
|
In total, 112 groups of Chinese White Dolphins,
numbering 413 individuals, were observed during the three-month survey. Most of them were sighted in the West Lantau (WL) and Northwest Lantau
(NWL) regions.
Major findings along and near the future alignments of
HKLR and TM-CLKL as well as the reclamation site of HKBCF (collectively called
“the Site” below) are summarized as follows:
Ÿ Dolphins were sighted but
not in high concentration near the Site;
Ÿ Several large dolphin
aggregations were seen near the Site;
Ÿ Several grids had moderate
to high dolphin density near the Site;
Ÿ Several mother-calf pairs
were recorded (near alignments of HKLR and TM-CLKL only);
Ÿ Several feeding activities
were sighted along and near the Site; and
Ÿ Two fishing boat-associated
sightings were made near the Site.
Through photo-identification work, 96 individuals were
identified from 182 sightings. Some
were sighted over three times during the three-month survey, indicating their
frequent use of Hong Kong waters.
Many of them were year-round residents and some were accompanied by
calves. Ranging pattern developed
showed that most of the dolphins ranged across the three survey areas including
the HZMB work areas.
4.2.1
Determination of Action and
Limit Levels for Dolphin Monitoring
Vessel-based Line-transect Survey Methodology
According
to the requirement of the EM&A Manual, dolphin monitoring programme should cover all transect lines in NEL and NWL
survey areas twice per month throughout the entire construction period.
The
survey team used standard line-transect methods (Buckland et al. 2001) to conduct the systematic vessel surveys. For each monitoring vessel survey, a
15-m inboard vessel (Standard 31516)
with an open upper deck (about 4.5 m above water surface) will be used to make
observations from the flying bridge area.
Two
experienced observers (a data recorder and a primary observer) made up the
on-effort survey team, and the survey vessel will transit different transect
lines at a constant speed of 13-15 km per hour. The data recorder will search with
unaided eyes and fill out the datasheets, while the primary observer will
search for Chinese white dolphins continuously through 7 x 50 marine
binoculars. Both observers will
search the sea ahead of the vessel, between 270o and 90o
(in relation to the bow, which is defined as 0o). One to two additional experienced
observers will be available on the boat to work in shift (i.e. rotate every 30
minutes) in order to minimize fatigue of the survey team members.
During
on-effort survey periods, the survey team will record effort data including
time, position (latitude and longitude), weather conditions (Beaufort sea state
and visibility), and distance traveled in each series (a continuous period of
search effort) with the assistance of a handheld GPS (Garmin eTrex Legend).
Data
including time, position and vessel speed will also automatically and
continuously be logged by handheld GPS throughout the entire survey for
subsequent review.
When
dolphins are sighted, the survey team will end the survey effort, and
immediately record the initial sighting distance and angle of the dolphin group
from the survey vessel, as well as the sighting time and position. Then the research vessel will be
diverted from its course to approach the animals for species identification,
group size estimation, assessment of group composition, and behavioural
observations. The perpendicular
distance (PSD) of the dolphin group to the transect line will be later
calculated from the initial sighting distance and angle.
Survey
effort being conducted along the parallel transect lines that are perpendicular
to the coastlines will be labeled as “primary” survey effort, while the survey
effort conducted along the connecting lines between parallel lines will be
labeled as “secondary” survey effort.
Data Analysis (Dolphin Encounter Rate)
Encounter
rates of Chinese white dolphins (number of on-effort sightings per 100 km of
survey effort, and total number of dolphins sighted on-effort per 100 km of
survey effort) will be calculated in NEL and NWL survey areas in relation to
the amount of survey effort conducted during each month of monitoring
survey. Dolphin encounter rates
will be calculated for comparison between the baseline monitoring and impact
monitoring results
For
the HZMB baseline monitoring results, the encounter rates were calculated using
primary survey effort alone (i.e. effort conducted along parallel transect
lines that were perpendicular to the coastlines). Only data collected under Beaufort 3 or
below condition would be used for encounter rate analysis. The average encounter rate of sightings
(STG) and average encounter rate of dolphins (ANI) were deduced based on the
encounter rates from six events during the baseline period (i.e. six sets of
line-transect surveys in North Lantau) using the
following formulae:
Total No. of On-effort
Sightings
Encounter
Rate (STG) = ---------------------------------------------------- x
100
Total Amount of Survey Effort (km)
Total No. of Dolphins from
All On-effort Sightings
Encounter
Rate (ANI) =
-------------------------------------------------------------------- x 100
Total Amount of Survey Effort (km)
These
encounter rates will be used for the implementation of Event and Action Plan to
examine whether the Action Level or Limit Level should be triggered from the
comparison of encounter rates between baseline and impact phase quarterly
monitoring periods.
Dolphin Encounter Rates during
Baseline Period
During
the present three-month study period, the encounter rates of Chinese White
Dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data from the
primary transect lines under favourable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) from
each of the survey areas are shown in Table
4.2.
Table 4.2 Dolphin
Encounter Rates (Sightings Per 100 km of Survey Effort) during the Baseline
Monitoring Period (September - November 2011)
|
Survey Area
|
Dolphin Monitoring
|
Encounter rate (STG)
(no. of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km of survey effort)
|
Encounter rate (ANI)
(no. of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort)
|
|
|
|
Primary Lines Only
|
Primary Lines Only
|
|
Northeast Lantau
|
Set 1
|
3.34
|
3.34
|
|
Set 2
|
0.00
|
0.00
|
|
Set 3
|
3.02
|
15.11
|
|
Set 4
|
5.92
|
14.79
|
|
Set 5
|
13.76
|
73.39
|
|
Set 6
|
9.93
|
26.49
|
|
Average from the six sets
|
6.00 ± 5.05
|
22.19 ± 26.81
|
|
Northwest Lantau
|
Set 1
|
1.39
|
2.77
|
|
Set 2
|
16.57
|
55.25
|
|
Set 3
|
5.24
|
24.48
|
|
Set 4
|
8.45
|
35.47
|
|
Set 5
|
13.13
|
86.30
|
|
Set 6
|
14.33
|
83.69
|
|
Average from the six sets
|
9.85 ± 5.85
|
44.66 ± 29.85
|
Event
and Action Plan for Dolphin Impact Monitoring
To
define the Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL) in comparison with the
baseline dolphin encounter rate, the seasonal fluctuation of dolphin encounter
rate in NWL and NEL were considered by comparing dolphin encounter rates across
the four seasons in order to take the natural fluctuation of dolphin occurrence
into account.
Notably,
the natural fluctuation among different seasons can differ by as much as 30%,
and in a few extreme cases up to 40-60% upon review of dolphin historical data
in North Lantau waters.
Therefore,
the approach of 30% and 60% percentage reduction to define the AL and LL,
respectively, is reasonable to determine whether the construction activities of
TM-CLKL project have caused real significant impact on dolphin occurrence,
instead of triggering false alarms prematurely. Although the exact percentages (30%/60%)
for the AL and LL are set somewhat arbitrarily, this is based on careful
consideration of the natural fluctuation of dolphin occurrences among different
seasons as explained above.
The
proposed AL and LL are shown in Tables 4.3
and 4.4:
Table 4.3 Action
Level and Limit Level for Dolphin Impact Monitoring
|
|
North Lantau
Social Cluster
|
|
|
NEL
|
NWL
|
|
Action Level
|
STG
< 70% of baseline &
ANI < 70% of baseline
|
STG
< 70% of baseline &
ANI < 70% of baseline
|
|
Limit Level
|
[STG < 40% of baseline & ANI
< 40% of baseline]
and
STG < 40% of baseline & ANI
< 40% of baseline
|
|
Notes:
1.
STG
means quarterly encounter rate of number of dolphin sightings, which is 6.00
in NEL and 9.85 in NWL during the baseline monitoring period
2.
ANI
means quarterly encounter rate of total number of dolphins, which is 22.19
in NEL and 44.66 in NWL during the baseline monitoring period
3.
For
North Lantau Social Cluster, AL will be trigger if
NEL or NWL fall below the criteria; LL will be triggered if both NEL and NWL
fall below the criteria.
|
Table 4.4 Derived
Value of Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL)
|
|
North Lantau
Social Cluster
|
|
|
NEL
|
NWL
|
|
Action Level
|
STG < 4.2
& ANI< 15.5
|
STG < 6.9
& ANI < 31.3
|
|
Limit Level
|
[STG
< 2.4 & ANI <8.9]
and
[STG
< 3.9 & ANI <17.9]
|
Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with
the Event and Action Plan, as provided in Table
4.5 should be carried out.
Table 4.5 Implementation
of Event-Action Plan
|
Event
|
ET Leader
|
IEC
|
SOR
|
Contractor
|
|
Action Level
|
1.
Repeat statistical data analysis to confirm findings;
2.
Review all available and relevant data, including raw data
and statistical analysis results of other parameters covered in the EM&A,
to ascertain if differences are as a result of natural variation or
previously observed seasonal differences;
3.
Identify source(s) of impact;
4.
Inform the IEC, SOR and Contractor;
5.
Check monitoring data.
6.
Review to ensure all the dolphin protective measures are
fully and properly implemented and advise on additional measures if
necessary.
|
1. Check monitoring data
submitted by ET and Contractor;
2. Discuss monitoring results
and findings with the ET and the Contractor.
|
1.
Discuss monitoring with the IEC and any other measures
proposed by the ET;
2.
If SOR is satisfied with the proposal of any other
measures, SOR to signify the agreement in writing on the measures to be
implemented.
|
1. Inform the SOR and confirm notification
of the non-compliance in writing;
2. Discuss with the ET and
the IEC and propose measures to the IEC and the SOR;
3. Implement the agreed
measures.
|
|
Limit Level
|
1.
Repeat statistical data analysis to confirm findings;
2.
Review all available and relevant data, including raw data
and statistical analysis results of other parameters covered in the EM&A,
to ascertain if differences are as a result of natural variation or
previously observed seasonal differences;
3.
Identify source(s) of impact;
4.
Inform the IEC, ER/SOR and Contractor of findings;
5.
Check monitoring data;
6.
Repeat review to ensure all the dolphin protective measures
are fully and properly implemented and advise on additional measures if
necessary;
7.
If ET proves that the source of impact is caused by any of
the construction activity by the works contract, ET to arrange a meeting to
discuss with IEC, ER/SOR and Contractor the necessity of additional dolphin
monitoring and/or any other potential mitigation measures (e.g., consider to
modify the perimeter silt curtain or consider to control/temporarily stop
relevant construction activity etc.) and submit to IEC a proposal of
additional dolphin monitoring and/or mitigation measures where necessary.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted
by ET and Contractor;
2. Discuss monitoring results
and findings with the ET and the Contractor;
3. Attend the meeting to
discuss with ET, ER/SOR and Contractor the necessity of additional dolphin
monitoring and any other potential mitigation measures;
4. Review proposals for
additional monitoring and any other mitigation measures submitted by ET and
Contractor and advise ER/SOR of the results and findings accordingly;
5. Supervise / Audit the implementation of
additional monitoring and/or any other mitigation measures and advise ER/SOR
the results and findings accordingly.
|
1.
Attend the meeting to discuss with ET, IEC and Contractor
the necessity of additional dolphin monitoring and any other potential
mitigation measures;
2.
If ER/SOR is satisfied with the proposals for additional
dolphin monitoring and/or any other mitigation measures submitted by ET and
Contractor and verified by IEC, ER/SOR to signify the
agreement in writing on such proposals and any other mitigation measures;
3. Supervise the
implementation of additional monitoring and/or any other mitigation measures.
|
1. Inform the ER/SOR and confirm notification
of the non- compliance in writing;
2. Attend the meeting to
discuss with ET, IEC and ER/SOR the necessity of additional dolphin
monitoring and any other potential mitigation measures;
3. Jointly submit with ET to
IEC a proposal of additional dolphin monitoring and/or any other mitigation
measures when necessary;
4. Implement the agreed
additional dolphin monitoring and/or any other mitigation measures.
|
5
Conclusions
In accordance with the EM&A Manual of the
TM-CLKL Project, baseline monitoring has been undertaken prior to commencement
of the construction works of the Contract for the following baseline monitoring
components:
Ÿ Air Quality;
Ÿ Water Quality; and
Ÿ Ecology (including baseline
dolphin monitoring).
Baseline air quality
monitoring was conducted at five (5) monitoring stations (ASR1, ASR5, ASR10,
AQMS1 and AQMS2) between 17 and 31 October 2013. No observable dust nuisance was recorded
at the monitoring stations and the baseline monitoring results are thus
considered representative of the ambient air quality levels. Action and Limit Levels were established
for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP based on the baseline monitoring results.
Baseline water quality
monitoring was conducted at seven (9) monitoring stations (IS12, IS13, IS14,
IS15, CS4, CS6, SR8, SR9 and SR10A) between 6 and 31 October 2011. No observable pollution source was
recorded at the monitoring stations and the baseline monitoring results are
thus considered representative of the ambient water quality levels. Action and Limit Levels were established
for DO, SS and turbidity based on the baseline monitoring results.
Baseline Chinese White Dolphin monitoring was
conducted in two survey areas (Northeast Lantau and
Northwest Lantau) from September to November
2011. Dolphin sightings,
distribution, encounter rate, group size, habitat use, mother-calf pairs and
behavior were reported.
Photo-identification and range estimation of identified individuals were
also made. Action and Limit Levels
are established based on the dolphin encounter rate with due consideration on
seasonal variation in dolphin abundance.