POSITION AND ORGANISATION Reserve Manager, MNR, Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET)

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2 AUTHORIZATION This Strategic Plan (SP) for the Musina Nature Reserve (MNR) was drafted and recommended by the Reserve Planning Team (RPT), a multi-disciplinary team consisting of: NAME M.E. Dzivhane POSITION AND ORGANISATION, MNR, Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) I. Cooper Owner, Mondferland Farm (Adjacent Property) R. Botha Manager, Maremani Nature Reserve (Adjacent Property) C. Nel Owner, Neldric Beleggings (Adjacent Property) Q. Richter Owner, Evelyn Game Ranch (Adjacent Property), Musina Game Study Group The drafting of this SP was supported by the following Protected Area Planning Specialist, Core Planning Team, Project Management Team, and Scientific Support Services Team: Dr P.J. Fielding - FieldWork D. Ferreira - NCC Group J. Jackelman Envirocentric M. Norval Private Consultant A. Purnell - NCC R. Dyer (Project Manager) - NCC K. Potgieter (Technical Scribe & Editor) - NCC F. Domingo (Technical Support) NCC F. Ally (Technical Support) NCC T. Esack (Technical Support) NCC S. Atmore (Technical Support) NCC PROTECTED AREA PLANNING SPECIALIST CORE PLANNING TEAM PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM & TECHNICIANS SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT SERVICES G. Benn (GIS) - GeoCline Consulting R. Colyn (Climatological Data and Vegetation) NCC R. Jangle (Vegetation) NCC M. Burger (Amphibians) Consulting Herpetologist B. Havemann (Mammals, Reptiles & Fish) - Consultant R. Colyn (Avifauna) NCC J. du Plessis (Avifauna) NCC Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 1

3 This SP is recommended for approval by: NAME AND TITLE Mr Solly Kgopong Acting Head of Department LEDET SIGNATURE AND DATE This SP is approved by: NAME AND TITLE Honourable Pinky Kekana Member of the Executive Council LEDET SIGNATURE AND DATE Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 2

4 NOTE At the time of writing, the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) is fulfilling the role of Management Authority of the provincial nature reserves of Limpopo Province. It is, however, anticipated that this responsibility will be taken over by a different agency during the course of The details of this takeover were unfortunately not available during the compilation of this Strategic Plan and, as a result, the term Management Authority is used to replace the name of the existing Management Authority LEDET - where relevant. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 3

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS AUTHORIZATION... 1 FOREWORD... 7 ABBREVIATIONS AND PLANNING TERMS... 8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY i) Purpose of the plan ii) Reserve context iii) Reserve values iv) Management issues and challenges v) Desired condition of the reserve vi) Key management activities and targets vii) Institutional arrangements and budget requirements INTRODUCTION The Reserve Management Plan Purpose and structure of the Strategic Plan The steps in preparing the Strategic Plan Stakeholder Consultation CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK Location Legal status Institutional arrangements General Limpopo Tourism Agency Department of Water Affairs Department of Public Works Department of Environmental Affairs Limpopo Department of Agriculture and the Expanded Public Works Programme Institutional Arrangements Specifically Relevant to the Musina Nature Reserve Reserve description History Climate Topography Geology and Soils Geology Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 4

6 Soils Drainage and Hydrology Vegetation Vegetation Types Species of Conservation Concern Invasive Alien Plants Fauna Mammals Mammal Species of Conservation Concern Avifauna Reptiles and Amphibians Fish Heritage Resources Reserve Infrastructure Social Context Local and Regional Planning Reserve Expansion Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK Purpose Reserve Values The Reserve Vision Key Performance Areas and Objectives Zonation STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK KPA 1: BIODIVERSITY AND HERITAGE CONSERVATION Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets KPA 2: SUSTAINABLE USE Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets KPA 3: ENFORCEMENT, SECURITY AND ACCESS CONTROL Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets KPA 4: INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT (OPERATIONS) Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 5

7 Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets KPA 5: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets KPA 6: ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING Guiding principles for reserve management Management actions and targets RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK Staffing Requirements Funding Requirements Roles and Responsibilities Reserve Management Reserve Planning Team Management Advisory Committee BIBLIOGRAPHY ANNEXURE 1: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT ANNEXURE 2: ZONATION CATEGORIES (CHARACTERISTICS) Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 6

8 FOREWORD Nature reserves have numerous benefits to both humans and natural ecosystems. They contribute directly to local, regional and national economies through tourism, employment and expenditure on reserve management. Nature reserves also facilitate complementary private sector investments, such as infrastructure and commercial services, which includes enabled industries such as the hospitality industry. Important social benefits to the public include the provision of an educational resource; indigenous and heritage values; and in increased quality of life, health and wellbeing. Nature reserves are established in Limpopo Province as a strategy to protect biodiversity and enhance ecotourism through Wildlife Resorts which are managed by the Limpopo Tourism Agency. In many instances it has, however, been determined that biodiversity continues to decline despite the resources that are invested in nature reserve management. The current president of South Africa, Mr J.Z. Zuma, has also expressed concern over the threat of extinction of wildlife species in the Great Limpopo Trans-frontier Park, especially Rhino. The presence of this species is known to attract criminal syndicates from other countries, where Rhino horn is used for medicinal purposes (Sapa, 2010). The poaching of Rhino causes a disturbance in ecological systems and contributes to environmental degradation and, as a result, strong conservation measures in the nature reserves of Limpopo Province are required in this regard. In 2004, the 7 th Conference of Parties decided that all member states of the Convention on Biological Diversity should develop and apply methodologies and criteria that would enable them to measure the effectiveness of nature reserve (protected area) management in the conservation and protection of biodiversity. South Africa has endorsed the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT-SA) in this regard, which is being used in Limpopo Province to measure management effectiveness in nature reserves. Management effectiveness evaluations of nature reserves are vital for the measurement and improvement of the performance of each provincial nature reserve against set management objectives. The management plans that have been developed for Limpopo Province include: Conservation and tourism objectives for the effective management of the nature reserves that fall under the jurisdiction of Limpopo Province; Tourism marketing and the facilitation of investment opportunities; Capacity building and tourism transformation; METT indicators to ensure the continuous improvement of the management of these nature reserves; and Provision of mechanisms for collaboration with communities and neighbours for harmonious co-existence and beneficiation to the province and the country. By developing these management plans, the Department has ensured: That Limpopo Province meets its obligatory implementation of international agreements; the Convention on Biological Biodiversity; the provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1998 (Act No. 108 of 1998); the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003); and the Limpopo Environmental Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003), through which natural resources are managed. The provision of ecosystem services for everyone in order to facilitate employment, exports, economic growth and a good quality of life. That the sourcing of funds for the management of nature reserves beyond the scope of formal Treasury allocations is enhanced. HONOURABLE P. KEKANA MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL: LEDET MARCH 2013 Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 7

9 ABBREVIATIONS AND PLANNING TERMS ABBREVIATIONS: APO Annual Plan of Operations BCEA Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of 1997) BFR Baobab Forest Reserve CAPEX Capital Expenditures CARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983) DAFF Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DPW Department of Public Works DWA Department of Water Affairs ECParks Eastern Cape Parks EEA Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998) EES Environmental Education Directorate EPWP Extended Public Works Programme ESKOM Electricity Supply Commission FFA FFA Holdings (Pty) Ltd. FPA Fire Protection Association [in terms of the National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998)] HDI Historically Disadvantaged Individual HO Head Office HOD Head of Department HR Human Resources HRD Human Resources Development IDP (municipal) Integrated Development Plan IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature KNP Kruger National Park KPA Key Performance Area LDA Limpopo Department of Agriculture LED Local Economic Development LEDET Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism LTA Limpopo Tourism Agency LPT Limpopo Tourism and Parks LRA Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995) MEC Member of the Executive Council METT Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool METT-SA Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool for South Africa MLM Musina Local Municipality MNR Musina Nature Reserve MNRMAC Musina Nature Reserve Management Advisory Committee NBRBSA National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977) NEMA National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) NEMPAA National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 58 of 2008) Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 8

10 NHRA National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) NPAES National Protected Area Expansion Strategy NVFFA National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998) OHSA Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993) OPEX Operating Expenditures PFMA Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999) PAM Protected Area Management PSA Public Service Act, 1994 (Act No. 103 of 1994) RMP Reserve Management Plan RPT Reserve Planning Team SANParks South African National Parks SANS South African National Standard SDA Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998) SDF Strategic Development Framework SIS Security and Investigation Services SOKDR State of Knowledge Data Repository SONR State-owned Nature Reserve SP Strategic Plan TFP Transfrontier Park TGP Technical Guidelines and Procedures TOR Terms of Reference UZM Use Zone Map VBR Vhembe Biosphere Reserve VCA Veld Condition Assessment VDM Vhembe District Municipality WfW Working for Water WMP Wildlife Management Programme WOF Working on Fire WSA Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997) DEFINITION OF KEY PLANNING TERMS: Activities Guiding principles Monitoring Objectives Outcomes Outputs Performance assessment Performance indicator Resources Activities are management tasks required to collectively realise the objectives. Guiding principles provide overall direction to the implementation of activities. Monitoring is the collection of data and information in a consistent manner over time for the purpose of evaluation. Objectives are derived from the vision. They represent key areas in which achievements must be obtained in total, or in some combination, to give direction to the management aspiration (the vision). Ideally outcomes are benefits produced from objectives and activities. Outputs are tangible results produced by activities. Performance assessment is a measurement of accomplishment against a set of pre-determined criteria (e.g. efficiency or effectiveness). A performance indicator is a measurement used to evaluate the success in achieving targets and realising objectives. Resources include the people, materials, technologies, money, etc. required to implement the activities. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 9

11 Target Use zone map Value Vision Targets are set for particular aspects of performance financial returns, efficiency, quality of services, etc. against which performance is monitored and measured. A use zone map is a spatial framework that guides and co-ordinates conservation and development activities in a protected area. A value is a specific attribute or feature (cultural, ecological or recreational) within a reserve that may require additional/special consideration during the planning process and subsequent management. Vision indicates the direction of management aspiration. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 10

12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The following Executive Summary provides an overview of the 5-Year Strategic Plan. i) Purpose of the plan The Strategic Plan sets out the ambitions for the Musina Nature Reserve (MNR), as articulated through the vision and objectives for the nature reserve for the next 5 years. The plan sets out how these ambitions will be achieved and delivered through a range of management guidelines and actions. The Strategic Plan strives to: Identify the defining qualities and characteristics of the reserve (i.e. what makes it special and unique); Describe the reserve s management issues and challenges; Set out medium- and long-term ambitions for the desired state of the reserve; Provide a five-year implementation framework for delivering this desired state; Describe the specific activities to be implemented on an annual basis; Identify the measures required to evaluate if the management actions are collectively contributing to achieve the desired state; and Describe the institutional, human resource and budget requirements for implementing the management plan. ii) Reserve context The MNR covers a total of ha and is located in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province. The MNR forms part of the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve (VBR), which is recognized internationally for its wildlife and its unique biological and cultural diversity. The MNR forms part of the former Baobab Forest Reserve (BFR), which was proclaimed by the Department of Forestry in Copies of the formal proclamation documents of the BFR cannot, however, be located by LEDET, but the latter reserve reportedly covered an area larger than that of the MNR. The MNR is currently still in the process of being formally proclaimed by LEDET, and, as such, the reserve s exact boundaries are yet to be confirmed. The MNR is located within the borders of the Musina Local Municipality, which is located within the Vhembe District Municipality of Limpopo Province. The MNR is State-owned. LEDET and the Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) are currently directly responsible for the conservation and tourism management, respectively, of the MNR. The tourism management functions of the LTA include the management of visitors facilities, relevant communications and bookings. The current staff complement of the MNR comprises 15 staff members, which is 9 staff members short of the full recommended staff complement for the effective management of the reserve. The land on which the MNR is located has a dramatic history, which currently acts as one of the features attracting tourists to the area: The MNR receives summer rainfall and rarely experiences frost during the dry winter months, as temperatures seldom drop below 9 C. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 11

13 The vegetation of the MNR comprises Mopane Bushveld vegetation units of the Savanna Biome, and includes one potential plant species of conservation concern. Greater Kudu, Impala and Nyala naturally occurred in the MNR area prior to the proclamation of the former Baobab Forest Reserve in Eland, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Sable Antelope and Waterbuck were subsequently successfully introduced to the reserve by the Administration of the Transvaal Province after The potential for breeding rare and endangered game species within the MNR was recognised soon after the reserve was taken over by the Administration of the former Transvaal Province. Sable Antelope was identified as a suitable species in this regard and a breeding herd was introduced to the reserve in An aerial game census conducted in 2012 recorded a total of 1311 head of game, including Eland (87), Gemsbok (16), Giraffe (114), Greater Kudu (95), Nyala (45) and Sable Antelope (22), amongst others. Nine different bat species have also been recorded in the reserve. Predators such as the African Wild Dog and Spotted Hyaena were recorded within the MNR as recently as 2000, but today only the Brown Hyena, Leopard and a number of smaller predators are known to occur in the area. A total of 41 individuals of Sable Antelope were recorded in the reserve during an aerial survey conducted in 2010, however, in 2012 only 22 were seen. Reasons for this population not showing any signs of growth could be competition, overgrazing and/or poaching. One mammal species of conservation concern can be found at the reserve. The MNR is comprised of a heterogeneous landscape comprised of undulating plains, mountainous terrain and a valley. The presence of two vegetation units, in conjunction with the landscape features, offers numerous habitats to a wide range of woodland and grassland avian species. The Sand River in the eastern section of MNR, along with all respective drainage lines and wetlands, offer various breeding and foraging habitats to a wide range of waterfowl and other wetland/riparian associated species. There are currently 25 verified bird species occurring at the MNR, of which 17 occur on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The level of endemism reflected within the current verified species inventory includes two endemic species. The importance of the MNR as a foraging and breeding range for IUCN listed threatened species extends beyond resident species, with the reserve hosting two paleartic breeding migrants. The total species richness of MNR is undoubtedly higher than the current species inventory, but is yet to be established and/or recorded. The MNR also hosts three verified IUCN listed vulture species, also known to fulfil an ecologically significant role within the respective ecosystem. The MNR offers both breeding and foraging habitat for Kori Bustard and can therefore contribute to the conservation of this species in South Africa. Fifty-two different reptile species and twenty amphibian species have been recorded in the MNR to date. No known heritage resources, classified as such according to the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999), are present within the MNR. The main entrance into the MNR is located on the western side of the reserve. The boundary fence of the reserve is currently in poor condition. An extensive road network has been developed within the reserve and includes a 22 km circular tourist road, which starts at the entrance gate and can be travelled by sedan vehicle. The road network present within the reserve consists of tourist roads, management roads and tracks that vary from graded gravel roads to tracks. The signage within the reserve is inadequate, in a poor condition and should be improved. A well-built office complex covering approximately 100 m 2 is located near the reserve entrance and is currently in a moderately good condition. This complex consists of a reception room, store room, ablution facilities, three offices and a kitchen. There are 32 single quarters, divided into eight blocks, within the reserve s labourers accommodation complex. The latter complex is equipped with flush toilets, a kitchen and showers with hot water. There are also three houses located within the reserve, one of which is situated on the farm Veenen No. 48 MT and is in a dilapidated state, while the remaining two are situated close to the office complex. There are two storage complexes located in the MNR, one of which is used for the storage of equipment and stock and the other for the storage of museum material, water spray cans, fire fighting Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 12

14 equipment, vehicles, tractors and other implements. A picnic area, which is located near the office complex, is equipped with braai facilities and is currently in a very poor condition. iii) Reserve values The following key values were identified for the MNR: The reserve hosts an abundant population of protected Baobab trees that have been protected for a prolonged period. This specific population of trees offers value to on-going research of the species, and has both cultural and spiritual significance for both locals and visitors alike. Geological records indicate that rocky outcrops in the Sand River belong to a rock formation called the Sand River Gneiss, which is said to be the second oldest in the world and the oldest in Africa, and attracts the interest of geologists worldwide. The reserve is a core area of the recently proclaimed Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, which is recognized internationally for its wildlife and its unique biological and cultural diversity. The reserve is strategically located to be able to offer a unique, diverse landscape of natural beauty with opportunities for low impact tourism like hiking, game viewing and birding for both the local population of Musina, and visitors on their way to and from Zimbabwe and the multiple game farms and nature reserves to the west of the KNP. There are opportunities to physically link the MNR to the privately owned Maremani Nature Reserve to the north and east, the Neldric Beleggings property to the south-west, the Mondferland Game Farm to the south and the Singelele property to the north. The reserve has the potential to demonstrate the practicality and benefits of functional partnerships between the State and private land owners in the collaborative administration and management of conservation and tourism ventures. The reserve provides opportunities for research linked to the Baobab, the population of Sable Antelope and the geology of the Sand River. The reserve supports a breeding population of Sable Antelope. The reserve has a good relationship with its neighbouring communities. iv) Management issues and challenges The MNR is faced with a number of management issues and challenges in light of serving its function as a nature reserve. These include: The state of roads within the reserve limits accessibility, especially during the wet season. The mountainous landscape in the south-east hinders accessibility by vehicle and foot. Roads structures along and within the reserve are highly erodible and therefore costly to maintain. Summer months are extremely hot, which makes management difficult and restricts the number of visitors to the area. Institutional financial constraints and a lack of a dedicated budget for the reserve as a cost centre hinder the maintenance and operations of the reserve. Reserve staff has limited capacity; staff that retire or leave are often not replaced; and many of the staff are old, and not competent to conduct their duties. Drought and poor grazing. The procurement system provides a challenge to ongoing management. Proximity of the MNR to the Zimbabwean border results in the reserve being vulnerable as a hiding place for illegal immigrants and smuggled goods. Poaching of wildlife by neighbouring communities. The reserve is located within a malaria risk zone. Reserve staff s capacity to ensure law enforcement is limited. Soils are highly erodible in the low lying areas. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 13

15 Poor internal road conditions limit access by management vehicles. Droughts. Regional resource over-exploitation and land degradation. v) Desired condition of the reserve The vision of the MNR can be summarised as follows: A reserve that is restored to its former status as desirable asset for local people and visitors. A reserve that people seek out for its unique population of baobab trees, the bushveld landscapes, the unique Sand River geology and game populations, including Sable Antelope. A reserve that fulfils its role as a core component of the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve by integrating the wildlife and tourism industry to jointly promote and develop tangible benefits and sustainable utilization of the area for the benefit of all the people of the area. A collaborative partnership is envisioned between the surrounding private landowners and the Musina management authorities in the ongoing conservation and sustainable use of the Musina Nature Reserve and the surrounding environment. From this partnership, it is envisaged that the following will be secured: The development of a unique Baobab conservancy; Conservation of the biodiversity of the Musina Mopane Bushveld and Limpopo Ridge Bush veld; A desirable, affordable and easily accessed bushveld experience for local people and visitors; The development of a reserve that serves to educate people about the unique features of the dry northern bushveld; Meaningful and sustained benefits for the surrounding communities of Musina; and Optimise the habitat to ensure the survival of a viable population of free-ranging Sable Antelope. vi) Key management activities and targets Twenty-four objectives, anticipated to contribute to realising the vision of the MNR, were identified by the RPT and can be grouped according to the following six key performance areas: Biodiversity and heritage conservation; sustainable use; enforcement, security and access control; infrastructure and equipment (operations); stakeholder involvement; and administration and planning. These objectives are: 1. Biodiversity and Heritage Conservation 1.1 Re-establish, maintain and manage viable populations of locally indigenous fauna and flora in the MNR. 1.2 Maintain the MNR boundary firebreaks. 1.3 Eliminate the spread and impacts of invasive alien plants and manage bush encroachment. 1.4 Protect the Baobab Trees and the Sand River system as key natural resources within the MNR. 1.5 Update key baseline information and develop and maintain a targeted research and monitoring programme in order to guide the management of biodiversity in the MNR. 2. Sustainable Use 2.1Develop and maintain day visitor and overnight visitor buildings and infrastructure in the MNR. 2.2 Develop, deliver and maintain a range of tourism and recreational services and products for visitors to the MNR. 2.3 Develop and implement a focused and cost-effective marketing, awareness-raising and educational programme for the MNR. 2.4 Facilitate the sustainable use of natural resources derived from the MNR. 2.5 Manage and mitigate the environmental impacts of tourism, recreation and natural resource use in the MNR. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 14

16 3. Enforcement, Security and Access Control 3.1 Secure the boundaries of, and maintain controlled access to, the MNR. 3.2 Sustain an effective law enforcement and compliance capacity in the MNR. 4. Infrastructure and Equipment 4.1 Develop and maintain the road, management track and footpath network in the MNR. 4.2 Construct, upgrade and maintain the bulk services infrastructure in the MNR. 4.3 Develop and maintain the administration, staff and operational buildings and infrastructure in the MNR. 4.4 Acquire and maintain operational equipment and vehicles for the MNR. 4.5 Maintain a reliable internal and external communications network for the MNR. 5. Stakeholder Involvement 5.1 Ensure the ongoing involvement of a representative and functional Musina Nature Reserve Management Advisory Committee in the planning, development and management of the MNR. 5.2 Develop and implement effective mechanisms for ongoing communication and interactions with local stakeholders and neighbouring landowners. 5.3 Actively participate in local and regional conservation and socio-economic development initiatives that may affect or benefit the MNR. 5.4 Identify, and enable access to employment, empowerment and capacity building opportunities for the Musina community. 6. Administration and Planning 6.1 Secure the legal tenure of, and management authority for, the MNR. 6.2 Maintain an adequately equipped, resourced and trained staff complement for the MNR. 6.3 Institute and maintain an effective administrative capability in the MNR. 6.4 Establish, maintain and host a reliable inventory of key information on the MNR and its ongoing management. For each one of the aforementioned twenty-four objectives, a number of guiding management principles (i.e. norms and standards by which operational decisions re. the MNR will be made); management actions (i.e. key strategic activities to be implemented in order to achieve the reserve s objectives); and management targets were set by the RPT. Each management action was defined and prioritised as being of a high, medium or low priority for the five year horizon covered by this Strategic Plan. Time frames, targets, key performance indicators and responsibilities were also allocated to each management action, or to a group of linked management actions. The aforementioned principles, actions and targets will be used to inform the annual plans of operation of the MNR, as well as the resources required to implement it. A Use Zone Map (UZM) was compiled for the MNR as a broad overarching medium-term spatial planning framework. vii) Institutional arrangements and budget requirements The following recommendations regarding the minimum staffing complement and funding required for the successful implementation of the Reserve Management Plan (i.e. the SP and APO) was made by the RPT: Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 15

17 It was proposed that a total of 24 staff members (consisting of a reserve manager, a nature conservator: wildlife, a nature conservator: education and awareness, six field rangers, four gate guards, one cleaner, an administrative officer, an artisan, two senior foreman and six general workers) would be required for the successful implementation of this Strategic Plan. The following capital and operational budgets are proposed for the successful implementation of this SP: 2013/2014: A total capital budget of R2 960,000 and an operational budget of R /2015: A total capital budget of R2 940,000 and an operational budget of R /2016: A total capital budget of R and an operational budget of R /2017: A total capital budget of R and an operational budget of R /2018: A total capital budget of R and an operational budget of R The key responsibilities of the Reserve Management team, as well as the Musina Nature Reserve Management Committee are defined and recorded and are regarded as crucial in the development, implementation, monitoring and review of the RMP. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 16

18 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 The Reserve Management Plan The Reserve Management Plan (RMP) is the overarching management planning document for the Musina Nature Reserve (MNR). The accompanying guideline document Guidelines for the development of management plans for Limpopo s Provincial Nature Reserves details the purpose, scope, approach to, and elements of all RMPs for State-managed conservation areas in Limpopo Province. The Musina Nature Reserve Management Plan comprises two complementary documents 1 : A Strategic Plan (SP) covering a period of five years (this document); and An Annual Plan of Operation (APO) covering the current financial year. The relationship between these two documents is shown in Figure 1 below. Figure 1: The relationship between the five-year Strategic Plan (SP) and the consecutive Annual Plans of Operation (APO) that guide the year-on-year reserve budget and activity planning. All the information necessary to guide the management of the MNR is included in these two documents. No major decisions potentially affecting the future of the reserve will be taken without reference to the RMP. This document constitutes the SP for the MNR and covers the period Purpose and structure of the Strategic Plan The purpose of the SP for the MNR is to set out the medium-term ambitions for the reserve. These ambitions are expressed through the vision and objectives. The SP then describes how these ambitions will be delivered through a range of management guidelines and management actions. 1 These two planning documents may, in turn, be supported by a Reserve Database and program-specific, more detailed Subsidiary Plans. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 17

19 This SP has the following structure: SECTION 1 SECTION 2 SECTION 3 SECTION 4 SECTION 5 INTRODUCTION This section briefly describes the: (i) planning context for the SP; (ii) purpose of the SP; (iii) structure of the SP; and (iv) approach to developing the SP. CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK This section provides a succinct summary of contextual information about the reserve. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK This section defines the ambitions for the reserve, through the formulation of a vision and a set of objectives. This section also spatially represents the desired state of the reserve in the form of a use zone map for the reserve. STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK This section defines how the vision and the objectives will be delivered. It details the key management guidelines and management actions for six thematic areas (Key Performance Areas) (KPAs): biodiversity and heritage conservation; sustainable use; enforcement, security and access control; infrastructure and equipment (operations); stakeholder involvement; and administration and planning. RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK This section describes the: (i) governance arrangements for decision-making; (ii) roles and responsibilities of affected institutions and stakeholders; (iii) the projected staffing requirements; and (iv) the projected funding requirements for the implementation of the SP. 1.3 The steps in preparing the Strategic Plan Eight basic steps were taken in preparing this SP. These steps are outlined in the Table 1 below. Table 1: The eight basic steps taken in preparing the Strategic Plan of the Musina Nature Reserve STEP STEP 1: Data collection, background research and site visit. STEP 2: Establishment of a Reserve Planning Team (RPT). STEP 3: Identification of the reserve values. STEP 4: Deciding on the desired state for the reserve. STEP 5: Development of an action plan for the reserve. STEP 6: Preparation of the first draft of the SP for the reserve. PURPOSE OF STEP To collect, collate and review the contextual reserve information that informs the reserve management planning process. To establish an inter-disciplinary team to guide and advise on the preparation, and ongoing review and evaluation, of the RMP. To describe why the reserve was designated, and its associated values and benefits. To develop and articulate a desired condition, state or appearance of the reserve (vision, objectives and use zone plan). To identify and develop the key management actions needed to achieve the desired state for the reserve. To integrate all the information from Step 1 and Steps 3 to 5 into a first draft of the SP. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 18

20 Table 1 (contd.): The eight basic steps taken in preparing the Strategic Plan of the Musina Nature Reserve STEP STEP 7: Stakeholder consultation (refer to Section below). STEP 8: Revision of the SP to include comments and recommendations from the RPT and other stakeholders. PURPOSE OF STEP To create an opportunity for the RPT, and later the general public and other stakeholders/interested parties, to review and comment on iterative drafts of the SP. To revise the draft SP, taking into account the comments received from the RPT and other stakeholders/interested parties and the public Stakeholder Consultation Stakeholder consultation and support is an important aspect of effective protected area management. It is also a requirement in terms of Sections 39(3) and 41(2)(e) of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003). Accordingly, the development of this 5- year SP has been undertaken through a collaborative process involving local communities and other key stakeholders. Public consultation has been undertaken through a series of workshops and discussions with key stakeholders culminating in a key stakeholder workshop, held on 27 November Furthermore, the draft SP has been made available for public review and comment through a 30 day public review and comment process prior to its finalisation. This process has ensured a great deal of valuable input into the development of the SP, the outcomes of which have been incorporated into the plan where applicable. A detailed public participation report is available as Annexure 1. Stakeholder engagement has furthermore also been set as a Key Performance Area in this 5-Year SP: Strategic Implementation Framework: KPA 5 - Stakeholder Involvement. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 19

21 2. CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK DISCLAIMER A reserve-by-reserve data gathering exercise (which excluded the ground truthing of the data collected) was undertaken by NCC Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd. (NCC) during the initial phases of this project with the aim of collecting, collating and reviewing contextual reserve information that would inform the reserve management planning process. The outcome of this exercise was, however, not ideal: Very little information in the form of scientific reports and/or data was made available to NCC during this process. A second attempt was made by NCC to source useful information via a Gap Analysis prepared for LEDET and LTA Directorates to feedback on. Limited feedback was received by NCC in this regard. A Third and final attempt via the appointment of a local specialist to source, and assess the suitability of a number of old, archived reports - held at the Management Authority s head office - for inclusion in the reserve management planning process. Most of the reports in question were, however, found to be outdated and stored in a state of disarray, resulting in a decision not to include this information in the relevant reserve management plans. The following additional step was taken by NCC to counteract the lack of information received from the Management Authority: A thorough stakeholder engagement process, with a strong reliance on the Management Authority for assistance with the identification of potential interested and/or affected parties, was conducted with the aim of providing an opportunity to stakeholders to give input into the reserve management planning process and provide NCC with suitable scientifically based information and/or reports. 2.1 Location The Musina Nature Reserve (MNR) is located within the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa (Figure 2). The reserve is located adjacent to the town of Musina and the N1, en route to Zimbabwe, and lies approximately 200 km north of Polokwane and 100 km north of Makhado. The MNR forms part of the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve (VBR), which is recognized internationally for its wildlife and its unique biological and cultural diversity. The MNR covers a total area of ha and is situated on portions of the following properties: Berkenrode No. 45 MT, Stockford No. 46 MT, Prinzenhage No. 47 MT, Veenen No. 48 MT and Toynton No. 49 MT (Figure 3) Legal status The MNR forms part of the former Baobab Forest Reserve (BFR), which was proclaimed by the Department of Forestry in Copies of the formal proclamation documents of the BFR cannot, however, be located by LEDET, but the latter reserve reportedly covered an area larger than that of the MNR. The MNR is currently still in the process of being formally proclaimed by LEDET, and, as such, the reserve s exact boundaries are yet to be confirmed. Table 2 lists key national, provincial and local legislation that has a direct influence on all reserve management activities. 2 Current actual size of the Musina Nature Reserve, as confirmed by LEDET. Copies of the formal proclamation documents of the former Baobab Forest Reserve (dated 1926) cannot be located by LEDET, but the latter reserve reportedly covered a larger area than the existing Musina Nature Reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 20

22 Figure 2: Regional location of the Musina Nature Reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 21

23 Figure 3: Locality map of the Musina Nature Reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 22

24 Table 2: Key national, provincial and local legislation with a direct influence on all reserve management activities 3 NATIONAL LEGISLATION National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA); National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA); National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) (NEMPAA); National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 58 of 2008) (NEMWA); National Forest Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998); Agriculture Laws Extension Act, 1996 (Act No. 87 of 1996); Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983) (CARA); Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act No. 73 of 1989); National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998); Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997) (WSA); National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998) (NVFFA); National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) (NHRA); Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984); Animal Health Act, 2002 (Act No. 7 of 2002); Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002); Fencing Act, 1963 (Act No. 31 of 1963); Tourism Act, 1993 (Act No. 72 of 1993); Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993) (OHSA); National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977) (NBRBSA); Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999) (PFMA); Public Service Act, 1994, (Act No. 103 of 1994), as amended (PSA); Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995) (LRA); Basic Condition of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of 1997) (BCEA); Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998) (EEA); Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998) (SDA); and Game Theft Act, 1991 (Act No. 105 of 1991). PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL LEGISLATION Limpopo Environmental Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003); Limpopo Tourism Act, 2009 (Act No. 2 of 2009); and Musina Local Municipality By-laws. 3 Including all regulations promulgated in terms of the legislation listed. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 23

25 2.3 Institutional arrangements General In implementing the RMP, it is essential that Reserve Management understand the mandates of various role-players and the institutional framework in which decision making; implementation and monitoring will be carried out. In light of this, a brief outline of the mandates and responsibilities of the Management Authority and key supporting government departments is provided below: LEDET, as the current designated management authority of the MNR, has a strategic mandate to develop the provincial economy, as well as to promote and manage tourism and the sustainable use of the natural environment in Limpopo Province. LEDET is currently in the process of compiling its Strategic and Annual Performance Plan that will aim at achieving key strategic objectives through the first draft of the plan for the phase , which is already completed. Some of the key strategic objectives that the plan aims to achieve include: Job creation within a sustainable environment; Ensuring healthy and fair trade; Establishing the province as a preferred eco-tourism destination; Sustainable environmental management; An increase in productive investment; and Thriving enterprises in all sectors. The Strategic Plan for Limpopo Province also includes an Environmental Affairs Programme that aims to ensure the development, promotion, management and regulation of environmental activities in the Province. The programme is comprised of three sub-programmes, namely Environmental Trade and Protection; Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management; and Environmental Empowerment Services. The programme is headed by a Senior General Manager with two Chief Directorates, each with a General Manager and one Directorate with a Senior Manager. Some of the strategic objectives of the programme include: To manage the impacts of developments on the environment; To enforce compliance with environmental legislation; To regulate the use of natural resources; The sound management of air quality and waste; To provide scientific support towards biodiversity management; To establish and monitor a representative network of 43 of protected areas; To manage State-owned nature reserves; and To provide environmental research and planning services. LEDET currently directly manages 43 nature reserves covering a total area of over ha. LEDET is also responsible for the biodiversity management of the entire Limpopo Province. In addition, a range of other core government departments have important roles to play in ensuring that the MNR is appropriately conserved and managed, including the following: Limpopo Tourism Agency The LTA is currently responsible for managing tourism-related infrastructure in the MNR. In this regard a draft service-level agreement has been developed between the LTA and LEDET in order to formalise the responsibilities between these two agencies. Once finalised, this is anticipated to clarify specific roles of the LTA in terms of management. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 24

26 The mandate of LTA is to promote, foster and develop tourism to and within Limpopo Province. Its role is therefore not only to grow the tourism sector of the MNR, but also to grow it in the broader region, as reflected in their mission: To encourage and facilitate the holistic development and promotion of the tourism industry in Limpopo Province; To encourage the participation of all people in the tourism industry; To ensure that all people have equal access to the social, economic and environmental opportunities and benefits created by the tourism industry; To facilitate community empowerment as an essential part of tourism development; To ensure that nature reserves and protected areas are developed, promoted, managed and conserved effectively; and To facilitate hospitality management in the province Department of Water Affairs The Department of Water Affairs (DWA) has the responsibility of developing tools and legislation related to water resource management; establishing appropriate institutional arrangements (CMA, other forums & advisory committees); and creating awareness and building capacity. Water resource planning, both quantity and quality, at catchment level, as well as the issuing of water use licences and the enforcement and compliance of the provisions of the NWA also fall within the responsibilities of DWA. Given the importance of catchment management in maintaining the integrity of the MNR, the DWA also has a very important role to play in ensuring the long-term protection and maintenance of the reserve. It is also the responsibility of the DWA to develop legislation and policies related to water resource management, namely: Developing approaches, systems, tools, standards, objectives and strategies that support and promote the sustainable utilisation of water resources; Facilitating the implementation of catchment management and other related strategies; Monitoring resource quality (this includes hydrological, water quality and bio monitoring); Auditing the state of South Africa s water resources against set objectives; Constructing & maintaining water-related infrastructure; and Setting water quality standards ( Department of Public Works The national Department of Public Works (DPW) directly undertakes functions that relate to national functions in the province, such as the construction and maintenance of facilities and properties that are of national importance. The DPW is guided by national policies aimed at transforming the public service, such as Batho Pele and the White Paper on Transformation of the Public Service. In Addition, the DPW is bound to work within the prevailing regulatory framework, including: The PSA; Regulations promulgated in terms of the PSA; The PFMA; Regulations promulgated in terms of the PFMA; and The Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act, 2000 (Act No. 5 of 2000). Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 25

27 The provincial Limpopo DPW, in accordance with the Constitution, is responsible for Public Works functions, which relate to provincial functions and provincial state property (including State-owned Nature Reserves). The core functions of the provincial DPW include: The maintenance of government-owned buildings, including gardens and residential accommodation used by members of provincial legislature grounds. (This is relevant to premises that accommodate more than one government department. Where a department occupies a building on its own, it is responsible for all maintenance. Refer to the State of Knowledge Data Repository (SOKDR) for relevant documentation, i.e. the EXCO Decision 59/2001). The provision and management of immovable properties that serve as a platform for the efficient delivery of various government services. Rendering an expert built environment function that involves technical planning, design and construction management. Coordination of the expanded Public Works Programme Department of Environmental Affairs The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) is responsible for the overall coordination of environmental activities in South Africa. It also coordinates environmental research, undertakes environmental education and ensures the implementation of environmental impact assessments, amongst other duties Limpopo Department of Agriculture and the Expanded Public Works Programme The main focus of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) is to promote economic growth and food security through sustainable agricultural and entrepreneurship development. Apart from its core agricultural focus, the LDA is also responsible for promoting sustainable natural resource utilization and agricultural land use management. The LDA is also the lead sector coordinating body for the Environment and Culture Sector within the following programme: the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP): Limpopo. The EPWP involves creating temporary work opportunities for the unemployed, using public sector expenditure. The environmental sector s contribution to the EPWP involves employing people to work on projects to improve their local environments through programmes such as the Department of Agriculture s Land Care programme; the DEA s People and Parks programme, Sustainable Land-based Livelihoods, and Growing a Tourism Economy programmes; as well as the DWA s Working for Water, Working for Wetlands, and Working on Fire programmes Institutional Arrangements Specifically Relevant to the Musina Nature Reserve The MNR is State-owned. LEDET and the Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) are currently directly responsible for the conservation and tourism management, respectively, of the MNR. The tourism management functions of the LTA include the management of visitors facilities, relevant communications and bookings. Table 3 details the current staff complement of the MNR. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 26

28 2.4 Reserve description History Table 3: The current staff complement of the Musina Nature Reserve POST NUMBER 1 Administrative Clerk 1 Senior Field Ranger 1 Field Ranger 11 General Assistant 1 Total 15 The BFR was proclaimed as a forest reserve by the Department of Forestry in 1926 with the aim of protecting the individuals of Baobab found in the area from economic exploitation. Prior to being handed over to the Administration of the former Transvaal Province in 1981, the BFR was leased out to cattle farmers by the Messina Town Council. During this period the reserve was stocked with approximately 600 head of cattle, which lead to severe overgrazing. At the time of being handed over to the Administration of the former Transvaal Province, the following antelope species were already naturally present within the reserve: Kudu, Gemsbok, Impala and Nyala. After the handover in 1981, the following additional game species were introduced to the area: Giraffe, Wildebeest, Eland, Sable Antelope and Waterbuck. It soon became clear, however, that the soil characteristics, history of overgrazing and erratic rainfall of the area negatively impacted on the ability of some of these game populations to flourish. In addition to hosting day visitors, the MNR was also made available for the hunting of game by members of public under the management of the Administration of the former Transvaal Province Climate The MNR receives most of its rainfall in the summer months and experiences relatively moist winters. The reserve receives an average annual rainfall of 550 mm per year, most of which falls during the summer months. The area receives the least amount of rainfall in August (with an average monthly rainfall of 3 mm per month) and the most in November (with an average monthly rainfall of 101 mm per month) (Figure 4). The monthly average for maximum temperatures at the reserve ranges from 21 C in July to 29 C in February. The region is coldest in July, when temperatures drop to an average of 7 C at night (Figure 4). Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 27

29 Figure 4: Graph illustrating the average monthly rainfall, as well as maximum and minimum temperatures for the Musina Nature Reserve (Madombidzha Weather Station: Latitude: S; Longitude: E; Altitude: 932 m above sea level) Topography The topography of the MNR is characterised by three distinct landscape types, namely the gently undulating plains with isolated granite koppies located in the central, northern and western sections of the reserve; rugged, mountainous terrain to the south-east of the Sand River; and the lower lying Sand River valley, which extends from the southern parts of the reserve in a north-easterly direction (Figure 3). The Sand River forms the lowest part of the MNR and is located between 450 and 470 m above sea level. The highest point of the reserve, Ha-Tshishangana, is located within the south-eastern section of the MNR, at an elevation of m above sea level Geology and Soils Geology The structurally complex Archaean Beit Bridge Complex, which consists of gneisses and metasediments, can be found at the MNR, as well as younger Karoo sandstones and basalts Soils A variety of soil forms occur in MNR and can generally be grouped according to the vegetation unit it supports. Soils associated with Limpopo Ridge Bushveld (Figure 5) are shallow gravel and sand with calcareous clayey soils. Musina Mopane Bushveld soils (Figure 5) vary from deep red/brown clays; to moderately deep, dark, heavy clays; to deep, freely drained sandy soils; to shallower types including skeletal Glenrosa and Mispah soil forms. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 28

30 There is a loss of topsoil throughout MNR which can be attributed to low plant cover as a result of overgrazing and drought, as well as high intensity rainfall that frequently occurs over short periods of time. Mountainous areas within the reserve are particularly susceptible to erosion, as the steep slopes cause runoff rainwater to increase in velocity. Dongas and sheet erosion also occur along some of the roads within the reserve Drainage and Hydrology The drainage system of the MNR forms part of the Limpopo River System. A section of the Sand River runs through the eastern section of the MNR and is the main drainage line associated with the reserve. This portion of the Sand River only flows above the soil surface when adequate rainfall is recorded within its catchment area and once all up-stream dams have been filled. Subsurface flow is known to occur more frequently. A number of smaller drainage lines can also be found within the reserve, especially in the more rugged south-eastern sections. These drainage lines only flow after thunder showers and during periods of high rainfall Vegetation Vegetation Types The vegetation of the MNR comprises Mopane Bushveld vegetation units of the Savanna Biome. Savanna vegetation is characterized by a herbaceous layer (usually dominated by grasses) with a woody component most typically an overstorey of trees. In southern Africa, bushveld is an apt description of the vegetation structure, as the vegetation most often does not comprise distinct shrub and tree layers and the shrubs and trees occur in a matrix with a grass-dominated herb layer. The vegetation descriptions for the reserve follow Mucina and Rutherford (2006) (Figure 5). Musina Mopane Bushveld Musina Mopane Bushveld (Figure 5) is characterised by open woodland, to mid-dense to closed shrubland, which is dominated by Colophospermum mopane on clayey lowlands and Combretum apiculatum on the hills. Moderately open savannah dominated by C. mopane, Terminalia sericea, Grewia flava and C. apiculatum occurs in areas with deep sandy soils. The herbaceous layer is generally well developed, especially on basalt, and is more open during the dry season. Areas with dense C. mopane shrubs have a poorly developed field layer. The tree and shrub component comprises, amongst others, C. mopane, C. apiculatum; G. flava and Sesamothamnus lugardii, while the grass layer is generally dominated by Schmidtia pappophoroides. Limpopo Ridge Bushveld Limpopo Ridge Bushveld (Figure 5) is distinguished by moderately open savannah with a poorly developed herbaceous/grass layer. Kirkia acuminata, characterised by its umbrella-shaped canopies, is prominent on some ridge skylines and often occurs with large individuals of Adansonia digitata, which occur on shallow calcareous gravel. The shrub Catophractes alexandri is dominant on calci-silicate soils. The general tree and shrub component of this vegetation type is dominated by C. mopane, Commiphora glandulosa, Commiphora tenuipetiolata and Terminalia prunoides, amongst others. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 29

31 Figure 5: Vegetation map of the Musina Nature Reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 30

32 The following plant species are endemic to Limpopo Ridge Bushveld: Pavonia dentata (low shrub) and Cleome oxyphylla var. robusta (herb) Species of Conservation Concern Table 4 lists the plant species of conservation concern known to occur in the MNR area 4. Table 4: Plant species of conservation concern known to occur in the Musina Nature Reserve area PLANT SCIENTIFIC NAME Peristrophe cliffordii Rare IUCN STATUS Although Baobab A. digitata trees are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the preservation of this iconic species is the main reason for the proclamation of the Baobab Forest Reserve (now known as the MNR) in In 1986 long term monitoring of Baobab trees at the reserve began. The data is currently updated every 10 years. The Shepherd s Tree Boscia albitrunca, which occurs in both of the vegetation units listed in Section , is protected in South Africa in terms of Section 12 of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998). The Shepherd s Tree is a keystone species in arid southern Africa, where it primarily provides browse to livestock and game, and shade, food and shelter to other animals, including invertebrates and birds. The laws of numerous African tribes strictly prohibit the destruction of this tree. This species is under threat as a result of the intense use of its branches to supplement livestock feed, particularly in times of drought. Marula Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, which occurs in both of the vegetation units listed in Section , and Leadwood Combretum imberbe, found in Limpopo Ridge Bushveld, are also protected in South Africa in terms of Section 12 of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998) Invasive Alien Plants Prickly Pear Opuntia ficus-indica (Category 1 - Declared Weed), Wild Tabacco Nicotiana glauca (Category 1 - Declared Weed) and Castor Oil Ricinus communis (Category 2 - Declared Invader) occur within the MNR. An infestation of Chain Fruit Cholla Cylindropuntia fulgida var. fulgida is also known to occur along the banks of the Sand River Fauna Greater Kudu, Impala and Nyala naturally occurred in the MNR area prior to the proclamation of the former Baobab Forest Reserve in Eland, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Sable Antelope and Waterbuck were subsequently successfully introduced to the reserve by the Administration of the Transvaal Province after The potential for breeding rare and endangered game species within the MNR was recognised soon after the reserve was taken over by the Administration of the former Transvaal Province. Sable Antelope was identified as a suitable species in this regard and a breeding herd was introduced to the reserve in The species of conservation concern indicated in this section have a strong probability of occurrence at this reserve, based on the Plants of South Africa (POSA) database. The POSA includes a database of all plants recorded by means of voucher specimens lodged with one of the recognised herbaria in South Africa. The actual occurrence of these species will, however, need to be ground truthed as part of KPA 1: Biodiversity and Heritage Conservation (Objective 1.5). Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 31

33 A total of 143 bird species have been recorded in the reserve, as well as 52 reptile and 20 amphibian species. Although invertebrates are considered to be very important at the reserve, no specific details have been recorded in this regard Mammals An aerial census conducted in 2012 recorded a total of head of game, including: Eland (87), Gemsbok (16), Giraffe (114), Greater Kudu (95), Nyala (45) and Sable Antelope (22), amongst others. The MNR currently supports populations of the following mammal species: Blue Wildebeest, Burchell s Zebra, Common Duiker, Gemsbok, Impala, Klipspringer, Sable Antelope, Steenbok and Warthog (Grazers); Eland, Giraffe, Greater Kudu and Nyala (Browsers); Black-backed Jackal and Brown Hyaena (predators); and Chacma Baboon (other feeders). Nine different bat species have also been recorded in the reserve. Predators such as the African Wild Dog and Spotted Hyaena were recorded within the MNR as recently as 2000, but today only the Brown Hyaena, Leopard and a number of smaller predators are known to occur in the area. A total of 41 individuals of Sable Antelope were recorded in the reserve during an aerial survey conducted in 2010, however, in 2012 only 22 were seen. Reasons for this population not showing any signs of growth could be competition, overgrazing and/or poaching Mammal Species of Conservation Concern The mammal species of conservation concern listed in Table 5 is known to occur at the MNR. Table 5: Mammal species of conservation concern known to occur at the Musina Nature Reserve SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME IUCN STATUS Panthera pardus Leopard Near-threatened Avifauna The MNR is comprised of a heterogeneous landscape comprised of undulating plains, mountainous terrain and a valley. The presence of two vegetation units, in conjunction with the landscape features, offers numerous habitats to a wide range of woodland and grassland species. The Sand River in the eastern section of MNR, along with all respective drainage lines and wetlands, offer various breeding and foraging habitats to a wide range of waterfowl and other wetland/riparian associated species. There are currently 25 verified bird species, of which 17 occur on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, occuring at the MNR, namely Bateleur (Vulnerable), Black Stork (Near-threatened), Cape Vulture (Vulnerable), Greater Painted-snipe (Near-threatened), Kori Bustard (Vulnerable), Lanner Falcon (Near-threatened), Lesser Kestrel (Vulnerable), Martial Eagle (Vulnerable), Pallid Harrier (Nearthreatened), Red-billed Oxpecker (Near-threatened), Secretarybird (Near-threatened), Southern Ground Hornbill (Vulnerable), Tawny Eagle (Vulnerable), White-backed Vulture (Vulnerable), White-crowned Lapwing (Near-threatened), White-headed Vulture (Vulnerable) and Yellow-billed Stork (Nearthreatened). The level of endemism reflected within the current verified species inventory includes two endemic species. The importance of the MNR as a foraging and breeding range for IUCN listed threatened species extends beyond resident species, with the reserve hosting two paleartic breeding migrants, namely Lesser Kestrel (Vulnerable) and Pallid Harrier (Near-threatened). The total species richness of MNR is undoubtedly higher than the current species inventory, but is yet to be established and/or recorded. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 32

34 Two verified IUCN listed species, namely Martial (Vulnerable) and Tawny (Vulnerable) Eagle, not only have IUCN significance, but are apex predators in their respective ecosystems and would therefore fulfil an ecologically significant role. Similarly, the MNR also hosts three verified IUCN listed vulture species, also known to fulfil an ecologically significant role within the respective ecosystem. The majority of the South African Southern Ground Hornbill population is restricted to large protected areas, including and surrounding KNP. This species has experienced a major range contraction, mainly due to habitat alteration and persecution. The identification and conservation of existing breeding pairs and/or possibly assisting the establishment of breeding pairs within the MNR will contribute to the overall conservation of the species within South Africa. Additionally, Kori Bustard numbers have decreased both in range and abundance, predominantly due to habitat loss, collisions with overhead lines and poisoning. This species is largely restricted to large protected areas, but also occasionally occur in numerous small protected areas. The MNR offers both breeding and foraging habitat for Kori Bustard and can therefore contribute to the conservation of this species in South Africa Reptiles and Amphibians The 52 reptile species found in the MNR include some significant snake species, such as Horned Adder, Black Mamba, Snouted Cobra, Mozambique Spitting Cobra, Reticulated Centipede Eater, Long-tailed Garter Snake and Southern African Python, amongst others. A reptile species list for the MNR is available as part of the State of Knowledge Data Repository (SOKDR). Twenty amphibian species, of which none are threatened, are known to occur at the MNR, including: Bushveld Rain Frog, Eastern Olive Toad, Flat-backed Toad, Northern Pigmy Toad, Painted Reed Frog, Common River Frog, Russet-backed Sand Frog and Southern Foam Nest Frog, amongst others. An amphibian species list for the MNR is available as part of the SOKDR Fish No available data Heritage Resources No known heritage resources, classified as such according to the NHRA, are present within the MNR Reserve Infrastructure The main entrance into the MNR is located on the western side of the reserve. The boundary fence of the reserve is currently in poor condition. An extensive road network has been developed within the reserve and includes a 22 km circular tourist road, which starts at the entrance gate and can be travelled by sedan vehicle. The road network present within the reserve consists of tourist roads, management roads and tracks that vary from graded gravel roads to tracks. The signage within the reserve is inadequate, in a poor condition and should be improved. A well-built office complex covering approximately 100 m 2 is located near the reserve entrance and is currently in a moderately good condition. This complex consists of a reception room, store room, ablution facilities, three offices and a kitchen. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 33

35 There are 32 single quarters, divided into eight blocks, within the reserve s labourers accommodation complex. The latter complex is equipped with flush toilets, a kitchen and showers with hot water. There are also three houses located within the reserve, one of which is situated on the farm Veenen No. 48 MT and is in a dilapidated state, while the remaining two are situated close to the office complex. There are two storage complexes located in the MNR, one of which is used for the storage of equipment and stock and the other for the storage of museum material, water spray cans, fire fighting equipment, vehicles, tractors and other implements. A picnic area, which is located near the office complex, is equipped with braai facilities and is currently in a very poor condition. A servitude is located along a small portion of the western boundary of the MNR. The location of this servitude is indicated in Figure Social Context The MNR is surrounded by a population of approximately individuals Local and Regional Planning The MNR is located within the borders of the Musina Local Municipality (MLM), which is located within the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM) of Limpopo Province. The MLM and part of the VDM, as well as a portion of the Kruger National Park (KNP) (north of the Shingwedzi River) form part of the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve (VBR), which is internationally renowned for its unique biological and cultural diversity. In terms of regional economic development and integration the VDM IDP for the period 2012/2013 to 2016/2017 recognises that portions of two different Transfrontier Parks (TFPs), involving four different countries, are located within the VDM. The Kruger National Park (KNP) of South Africa, Gonarezhou National Park of Zimbabwe and Limpopo National Park of Mozambique collectively form the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, while the Mapungubwe National Park of South Africa, Tuli Circle Safari Area of Zimbabwe, and Northern Tuli Game Reserve of Botswana are integrated to form the Limpopo-Shashe Transfrontier Park. It is recognised in the VDM IDP that this situation presents the VDM with a great potential for growth in the tourism sector. With this end goal in mind, a tourism strategy was developed in order to assist in designing an effective marketing plan and strategy, and identify appropriate marketing tools, to achieve maximum exposure and awareness for the VDM region. To date it appears that this strategy has not carried through to any implementation. The VDM IDP also identifies challenges currently affecting tourism within the region, i.e. the upgrading of roads; interference by the municipality and sector department officials; deterioration of heritage sites; lack of signage and marketing; and low service standards in some tourism destinations. The IDP gives no indication of how these challenges will be addressed. The Local Economic Development (LED) Plan of the VDM IDP identifies a number of nature reserves and parks, including the Nwanedi Nature Reserve (located between the Makhuya and Musina Nature Reserves), the Baobab Nature Reserve (presumably the MNR), and Kruger National Park, in which the provision of infrastructure should be prioritized in order to attract more tourists. The IDP LED Plan also states that the VBR and Transfrontier Parks need to be developed into tourism attractions at a district level. 5 The social context of the MNR was determined by identifying the municipal wards within which the reserve is located, as well as those immediately bordering the reserve. Using the results of the South African National Census of 2011, the total number of people within these wards was then calculated to give a representation of the population in the vicinity of the reserve. It should be kept in mind that ward sizes differ considerably and that the value listed may include individuals residing relatively far from the reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 34

36 Figure 6: The location of servitudes in and around the Musina Nature Reserve. Reserve Management Documents: Musina Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 35