Guiding principles for reserve management - NCC Environmental ...

This SP is recommended for approval by:NAME AND TITLEHead ofDepartmentLEDETInsert nameSIGNATURE AND DATEThis SP is approved by:NAME AND TITLEMember of theExecutive CouncilLEDETInsert nameSIGNATURE AND DATELEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 2

TABLE OF CONTENTSAUTHORIZATION .......................................................................................................................................... 1PREFACE ....................................................................................................................................................... 5ABBREVIATIONS AND PLANNING TERMS..................................................................................................... 6EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................. 81. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................... 91.1 The Reserve Management Plan ......................................................................................................... 91.2 Purpose and structure of the Strategic Plan ...................................................................................... 91.3 The steps in preparing the Strategic Plan ........................................................................................ 102. CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK .................................................................................................................. 122.1 Location ............................................................................................................................................ 122.2 Legal status ...................................................................................................................................... 132.3 Institutional arrangements .............................................................................................................. 142.4 Reserve description .......................................................................................................................... 152.4.1 History ....................................................................................................................................... 152.4.2 Climate ...................................................................................................................................... 162.4.3 Topography ............................................................................................................................... 172.4.4 Geology and Soils ...................................................................................................................... 172.4.4.1 Geology .................................................................................................................................. 172.4.4.2 Soils ........................................................................................................................................ 172.4.4.3 Soil Erosion ............................................................................................................................. 172.4.5 Drainage and Hydrology ........................................................................................................... 172.4.6 Vegetation ................................................................................................................................. 182.4.7 Fauna ......................................................................................................................................... 192.4.8 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................................... 202.4.9 Reserve Infrastructure .............................................................................................................. 202.5 Local and Regional Planning ............................................................................................................ 212.6 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats ........................................................................ 213. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK .................................................................................................. 223.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................................................ 223.2 Reserve Values ................................................................................................................................. 223.3 The Reserve Vision ........................................................................................................................... 223.4 Key Performance Areas and Objectives ........................................................................................... 233.5 Zonation ........................................................................................................................................... 24LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 3

4. STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK ................................................................................... 26KPA 1: BIODIVERSITY AND HERITAGE CONSERVATION ......................................................................... 27Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 27Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 29KPA 2: SUSTAINABLE USE ....................................................................................................................... 33Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 33Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 34KPA 3: ENFORCEMENT, SECURITY AND ACCESS CONTROL .................................................................... 36Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 36Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 37KPA 4: INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT (OPERATIONS) ................................................................. 39Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 39Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 41KPA 5: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT.................................................................................................... 43Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 43Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 44KPA 6: ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING............................................................................................. 46Guiding principles for reserve management ......................................................................................... 46Management actions and targets .......................................................................................................... 485. RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK ............................................................................... 505.1 Staffing Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 505.2 Funding Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 515.3 Roles and Responsibilities ................................................................................................................ 526 BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................... 54ANNEXURE 1: ZONATION CATEGORIES (CHARACTERISTICS)..................................................................... 55LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 4

PREFACEMr Albert MabundaSenior General Manager: Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and TourismDate: Insert DateLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 5

ABBREVIATIONS AND PLANNING TERMSABBREVIATIONS:ABETAdult Basic Education and TrainingAPOAnnual Plan of OperationsBCEA Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of 1997)CAPEXCapital ExpendituresCARA Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983)CPACommunal Property AssociationECParksEastern Cape ParksEEEnvironmental EducationEEA Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998)EMIEnvironmental Management InspectorEPWPExtended Public Works ProgrammeESKOMElectricity Supply CommissionFPAFire Protection Association [in terms of the National Veld and Forest FireAct, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998)]HDIHistorically Disadvantaged IndividualHOHead OfficeHODHead of DepartmentHRHuman ResourcesHRDHuman Resources DevelopmentIDP(municipal) Integrated Development PlanITInformation TechnologyIUCNInternational Union for the Conservation of NatureKPAKey Performance AreaLEDETLimpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and TourismLRA Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995)MECMember of the Executive CouncilMETTManagement Effectiveness Tracking ToolMETT-SAManagement Effectiveness Tracking Tool for South AfricaNBRBSANational Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of1977)NEMBANational Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of2004)NEMPAA National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57of 2003)NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2009 (Act No. 58 of 2009)NGONon-governmental OrganizationNHRA National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999)NVFFA National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998)OHSOccupational Health and SafetyOHSA Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993)OPEXOperating ExpendituresPFMA Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999)PSA Public Service Act, 1994 (Act No. 103 of 1994)RMPReserve Management PlanRPTReserve Planning TeamSANParksSouth African National ParksLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 6

SDA Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998)SISSecurity and Investigation ServicesSONRState-owned Nature ReserveSPStrategic PlanSTKSouth African Development Trust CorporationTORTerms of ReferenceUZMUse Zone MapVCAVeld Condition AssessmentWBRWaterberg Biosphere ReserveWNRWonderkop Nature ReserveWNRMCWonderkop Nature Reserve Management CommitteeWSA Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997)DEFINITION OF KEY PLANNING TERMS:ActivitiesGuiding principlesMonitoringObjectivesOutcomesOutputsPerformanceassessmentPerformance indicatorResourcesTargetUse zone mapValueVisionActivities are management tasks required to collectively realise theobjectives.Guiding principles provide overall direction to the implementation ofactivities.Monitoring is the collection of data and information in a consistent mannerover time for the purpose of evaluation.Objectives are derived from the vision. They represent key areas in whichachievements must be obtained in total, or in some combination, to givedirection 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 setof pre-determined criteria (e.g. efficiency or effectiveness).A performance indicator is a measurement used to evaluate the success inachieving targets and realising objectives.Resources include the people, materials, technologies, money, etc. requiredto implement the activities.Targets are set for particular aspects of performance – financial returns,efficiency, quality of services, etc. – against which performance is monitoredand measured.A use zone map is a spatial framework that guides and co-ordinatesconservation 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 duringthe planning process and subsequent management.Vision indicates the direction of management aspiration.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 7

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 8

1. INTRODUCTION1.1 The Reserve Management PlanThe Reserve Management Plan (RMP) is the overarching management planning document for theWonderkop Nature Reserve (WNR).The accompanying LEDET guideline document ‘Guidelines for the development of management plans forLimpopo’s Provincial Nature Reserves’ details the purpose, scope, approach to, and elements of allRMPs for State-owned nature reserves in Limpopo Province.The Wonderkop Nature Reserve Management Plan comprises two complementary documents 1 :A Strategic Plan (SP) covering a period of five years (this document); andAn 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) thatguide the year-on-year reserve budget and activity planning.All the information necessary to guide the management of the WNR is included in these twodocuments. No major decisions potentially affecting the future of the reserve will be taken withoutreference to the RMP.This document constitutes the SP for the WNR and covers the period 2013-2017.1.2 Purpose and structure of the Strategic PlanThe purpose of the SP for the WNR is to set out the medium-term ambitions for the reserve. Theseambitions are expressed through the vision and objectives. The SP then describes how these ambitionswill 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.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 9

This SP has the following structure:SECTION 1SECTION 2SECTION 3SECTION 4SECTION 5INTRODUCTIONThis 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 FRAMEWORKThis section provides a succinct summary of contextual information about the reserve.STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORKThis section defines the ambitions for the reserve, through the formulation of a visionand a set of objectives.This section also spatially represents the desired state of the reserve in the form of ause zone map for the reserve.STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKThis section defines how the vision and the objectives will be delivered. It details thekey management guidelines and management actions for six thematic areas (KeyPerformance Areas): biodiversity and heritage conservation; sustainable use;enforcement, security and access control; infrastructure and equipment (operations);stakeholder involvement; and administration and planning.RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORKThis section describes the: (i) governance arrangements for decision-making; (ii) rolesand responsibilities of affected institutions and stakeholders; (iii) the projected staffingrequirements; and (iv) the projected funding requirements for the implementation ofthe SP.1.3 The steps in preparing the Strategic PlanEight 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 Wonderkop Nature ReserveSTEPSTEP 1: Data collection,background researchand site visit.STEP 2: Establishmentof a Reserve PlanningTeam (RPT).STEP 3: Identificationof the reserve values.STEP 4: Deciding on thedesired state for thereserve.STEP 5: Developmentof an action plan forthe reserve.STEP 6: Preparation ofthe first draft of the SPfor the reserve.PURPOSE OF STEPTo collect, collate and review the contextual reserve information thatinforms the reserve management planning process.To establish an inter-disciplinary team to guide and advise on thepreparation, and ongoing review and evaluation, of the RMP.To describe why the reserve was designated, and its associated values andbenefits.To develop and articulate a desired condition, state or appearance of thereserve (vision, objectives and use zone plan).To identify and develop the key management actions needed to achieve thedesired state for the reserve.To integrate all the information from Step 1 and Steps 3 to 5 into a first draftof the SP.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 10

Table 1 (contd.):The eight basic steps taken in preparing the Strategic Plan of the Wonderkop Nature ReserveSTEPSTEP 7: Stakeholderconsultation.STEP 8: Revision of theSP to includecomments andrecommendations fromthe RPT and otherstakeholders.PURPOSE OF STEPTo create an opportunity for the RPT, and later the general public and otherstakeholders/interested parties, to review and comment on iterative draftsof the SP.To revise the draft SP, taking into account the comments received from theRPT and other stakeholders/interested parties and the public.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 11

2. CONTEXTUAL FRAMEWORK2.1 LocationThe Wonderkop Nature Reserve (WNR) is situated in the Waterberg District of Limpopo Province, SouthAfrica and is located approximately 275 km to the north of Pretoria, 115 km to the west-north-west ofPolokwane and 90 km to the north-west of Mokapane (Figure 2). The reserve is located adjacent to theSteilloop settlement to the north-east and can be accessed via the N11 a short distance north ofRebone-A.The Glen Alpine Dam is situated to the east of the reserve, with the Mogalakwena River running along asection of its eastern boundary.The WNR is situated approximately 25 km to the north of the Masebe Nature Reserve and 30 km to thesouth-west of the Maleboch Nature Reserve.Figure 2: Regional location of the Wonderkop Nature Reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 12

The Wonderkop NR covers an area of 14 431.348 ha 2 and is located on portions of the followingproperties: Elim No. 383 LR, Steilwater No. 385 LR, De Draai No. 374 LR, Rooikop No. 377 LR,Hardekraaltjie No. 330 LR, Groot Bosch No. 384 LR, Steenbokskloof No. 331 LR, Platteklip No. 346 LR,Glen Alpine No. 304 CR, Eenzaamheid No. 345 LR, Salt Lake No. 334 CR, Zwartland No. 301 LR andKaalhoek No. 333 CR (Figure 3).The WNR was named after a hill or “koppie” located within the reserve, which, when observed fromdifferent angles, appears like a number of different animals and/or persons.Figure 3: Locality map of the Wonderkop Nature Reserve.2.2 Legal statusThe WNR was proclaimed as a nature reserve on 3 March 1993 by the Administrator of the formerTransvaal Province in terms of Section 3 of the Nature Conservation in Black Areas Proclamation, 1978(Proclamation No. R. 6 of 1978) (read with Proclamation No. R. 26 of 31 March 1992) and is thereforelegally defined as a provincial nature reserve in terms of the National Environmental Management:Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) (NEMPAA). The reserve currently falls under the legalprotection of NEMPAA in terms of Section 12 thereof.Table 2 lists key national, provincial and local legislation that has a direct influence on all reservemanagement activities.2 Current actual size of the reserve, as confirmed by LEDET. Portions of the existing reserve area fall outside of the proclaimed reserve area.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 13

Table 2: Key national, provincial and local legislation with a direct influence on all reserve management activities 3NATIONAL LEGISLATION National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107of 1998); National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004(Act No. 10 of 2004);National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act,2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003);National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2009 (ActNo. 58 of 2009); 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. 43of 1983); 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); National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998); National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999); 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 of1993);National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act,1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977); Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999); Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act No. 66 of 1995);Basic Condition of Employment Act, 1997 (Act No. 75 of1997); Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No. 55 of 1998);Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998); and Game Theft Act, 1991 (Act No. 105 of 1991).PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL LEGISLATIONLimpopo Environmental ManagementAct, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003); Limpopo Tourism Act, 2009 (Act No. 2of 2009);Mogalakwena Local Municipality:Waste Management By-laws, 2011(Local Authority Notice 164);Mogalakwena Local Municipality:Water Services By-laws, 2009; andMogalakwena Local Municipality:Building and Drainage By-laws.2.3 Institutional arrangementsThe following properties that form part of the WNR are owned by the Tale Ga Morudu CommunalProperty Association (CPA): Hardekraaltjie No. 330 LR, Steenbokskloof No. 331 LR, Glen Alpine No. 304CR, Eenzaamheid No. 345 LR, Salt Lake No. 334 CR, Zwartland No. 301 LR and Kaalhoek No. 333 CR(Figure 3). The remainder of the reserve is currently State-owned.A co-management agreement entered into in 2007 provides for a State ‘Executing Agency’ to managethe reserve on behalf of the community for the purposes of ‘tourism, nature conservation and socioeconomicdevelopment’.3 Including all regulations promulgated in terms of the legislation listed.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 14

The co-management agreement further provides for the establishment of a ‘Wonderkop NatureReserve Management Committee’ to represent the interests of the parties to the agreement in theongoing management and development of the WNR. The management committee has beenconstituted - with representation from the Tale Ga Morudu community, the Mogalakwena LocalMunicipality and LEDET – and meets quarterly.In terms of the co-management agreement, the executing agency pays a conservation levy (R5/ha,adjusted annually for inflation) into the community trust account and shares the proceeds of ‘net profit’from reserve activities with the community on a 50:50 basis.A land claim in terms of Section 10 of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (Act No. 22 of 1994) wassubmitted by the Bakone BagaMatlala community over the following properties that form part of theWNR: Steilwater No. 385 LR, Elim No. 383 LR, Groot Bosch No. 384 LR, De Draai No. 374 LR andPlatteklip No. 346 LR. This land claim is currently still in process.Table 3 details the current staff complement of the WNR.2.4 Reserve description2.4.1 HistoryTable 3: The current staff complement of the Wonderkop Nature ReservePOSTNUMBERReserve Manger 1Field Ranger 15Total 16The farms comprising the WNR were initially used for cattle farming and, to a lesser extent, irrigatedcrop production. The area was severely overgrazed for an extended period of time, which resulted inpoor grass cover, erosion and extensive bush encroachment, especially in flat areas with fertile soils.The cultivation of crops in such a low rainfall area further contributed to the degradation of the veld.The properties comprising the WNR were subsequently purchased by the State for the purpose of there-establishment of a black community that was re-located from Makgorang. The farms used for thispurpose became known as the Steilloop group of South African Development Trust farms (Steilloopfarms). This piece of land was kept in trust in order to be prepared and developed for theestablishment of the farmers from the Makgorang community, during which time it was still used forcattle farming under the management of the South African Development Trust Co-operation (STK) onbehalf of the former Department of Development Aid.In the 1980’s a planning committee was appointed by the former Department of Development Aid withthe task of evaluating the suitability of the Steilloop farms for the re-establishment of the Makgorangfarmers. The committee concluded that a large portion of these farms was not suitable for cattlefarming as a result of its low carrying capacity, a history of overgrazing and the presence of Poison Leaf.The committee went on to recommend that the area be developed as a nature reserve, which couldlater be transferred to the then Lebowa Government.An area of 3 950 ha located in the northern section of the Steilloop farms was initially earmarked as apotential nature reserve by the former Department of Development Aid. This area was managed by theconservation division of the said department, which was responsible for the fencing of the area in 1991.Game, including approximately 300 head of Impala, 80 head of Kudu and a number of Warthog, wasonly introduced to the area in 1993. The numbers of these species were, however, strictly controlled inLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 15

order to protect the veld against further degradation and to give it the opportunity to recover from thesevere overgrazing which took place in the area in the past.In 1993 a portion covering 16 100 ha of the Steilloop farms, including the portion measuring 3 950 hathat was previously reserved, was proclaimed as a nature reserve (Section 2.2). The removal of cattlefrom the reserve subsequently commenced after 1993. In addition hereto, it was also decided to notstock the reserve with any further game species until such time as the veld has sufficiently recoveredfrom historical overgrazing practices. This resulted in a rapid rate of veld recovery.A bush encroachment control programme was also implemented in the reserve with great success,creating vegetation marked by an open, woody structure and tall grass of good quality. Theseconditions are ideal for the introduction of both Sable and Roan Antelope and, as a result, 16 individualsof Sable Antelope and 20 individuals of Roan Antelope were introduced to the reserve in 1996 and1997, respectively.2.4.2 ClimateThe WNR receives most of its rainfall during the summer months. Winters are relatively dry and frostoccurs occasionally.The reserve receives an average annual rainfall of 372 mm per year, most of which falls during thesummer months. The area receives the least amount of rainfall in August (with an average monthlyrainfall of 0.3 mm per month) and the most in November (with an average monthly rainfall of 100 mmper month) (Figure 4).The monthly average for maximum temperatures at the reserve ranges from 24°C in July to 33°C inFebruary. The region is coldest during July, when temperatures drop to an average of 4°C at night(Figure 4).Figure 4: Average monthly rainfall and minimum and maximum temperatures for the Wonderkop Nature Reserve (StyloopWeather Station: Latitude: 23.4874°S; Longitude: 28.6546°E; Altitude: 984 m above sea level).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 16

2.4.3 TopographyThe topography of the reserve is characterised by flat to gently undulating plains in the northern andsouthern areas, with a number of hills and isolated koppies located in the central parts of the reserve(Figure 3).Altitudes within the WNR vary from 800 m above sea level in the plains to 1 180 m above sea level at itshighest point, which is located on one of the koppies in the central part of the reserve.2.4.4 Geology and Soils2.4.4.1 GeologyThe geological formations at the WNR include sandstone, conglomerate, siltstone and shale of theKransberg and Matlabas Subgroups. Gneisses, metasediments and metavolcanic rocks of the MalalaDrift Group, Beit Bridge Complex may also occur, while granite of the Lebowa Granite Suite is alsopresent.2.4.4.2 SoilsThe soils occurring at WNR are sandy and vary from red-yellow apedal high base status to dystrophic ormesotrophic soils.2.4.4.3 Soil ErosionMost of the erosion recorded within the WNR is presumably caused by severely overgrazed areaslocated adjacent to the reserve boundaries, notably along the northern, north-eastern and easternboundaries. Sound data on which to base management decisions with regard to soil management is,however, not currently available for the reserve.2.4.5 Drainage and HydrologyDrainage within the WNR forms part of the Limpopo River System.A number of small drainage lines can be found within the reserve, all of which drain eastward towardsthe Mogalakwena River, which is located along a section of the eastern boundary of the reserve. TheMogalakwena River is classified as Critically Endangered and flows northward towards the LimpopoRiver.The WNR is located in a Fish Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area.A number of fountains or springs, of which the water is used by locals for spiritual rituals andceremonies, occur within the boundaries of the reserve.The sloping landscape of various parts of the reserve, along with the degraded state of some sections,often results in rapid water flow after periods of high rainfall, especially in areas with poor plant cover.The Glen Alpine Dam is located to the east of the reserve. This dam is located along the MogalakwenaRiver, and supplies water to irrigation farmers located downstream.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 17

2.4.6 Vegetation2.4.6.1 GeneralThe vegetation of the WNR comprises a Central Bushveld vegetation unit of the Savanna Biome (Figure5).Savanna is characterized by a herbaceous layer (usually dominated by grasses) with a woodycomponent – most typically an overstorey of trees. In southern Africa the term bushveld is an aptdescription of the vegetation structure, as the vegetation most often does not comprise distinct shruband 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).Roodeberg BushveldRoodeberg Bushveld (Figure 5) varies from short closed woodland to tall open woodland in that it has apoorly developed grass component. The trees and shrubs of this vegetation unit are comprised of,amongst others: Acacia burkei, Acacia nigrescens, Acacia robusta, Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra (talltrees); Acacia tortilis subsp. heteracantha, Combretum apiculatum, Kirkia accuminatum, Terminaliasericea and Ziziphus mucronata (small trees); Dichrostachys cinerea, Grewia flava, Euclea crispa (tallshrubs); and Commiphora africana, Melhania acuminata and Sida cordifolium (small shrubs). The grasslayer is dominated by Aristida canescens, Chloris virgata, Digitaria eriantha and Panicum maximum,amongst others.2.4.6.2 Species of Special ConcernTable 4 lists the species of conservation concern known to occur in the WNR area 4 .Table 4: Plant species of conservation concern known to occur in the Wonderkop Nature Reserve areaAcacia eriolobaSCIENTIFIC NAMEIUCN STATUSDeclining2.4.6.3 State of Invasive Alien Plant SpeciesIsolated patches of Queen of the Night Cereus jamacaru (Category 1 – Declared Weed), Syringa Meliaazedarach (Category 2 – Declared Invader) and Prickly Pear Opuntia sp. (Category 1 – Declared Weed)occur in the reserve.4 The species of conservation concern indicated in this section have a strong probability of occurrence at this reserve, based on the Plants ofSouth Africa (POSA) database. The POSA includes a database of all plants recorded by means of voucher specimens lodged with one of therecognised 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 1.6).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 18

Figure 5: Vegetation map of the Wonderkop Nature Reserve.2.4.7 FaunaThe most recent game count conducted within the WNR took place in 2010, during which a total of 1010 head of game was counted within the northern section of the reserve. This included the followingspecies: Blue Wildebeest, Burchell’s Zebra, Mountain Reedbuck, Red Hartebeest and Warthog (grazers);Bushpig, Common Duiker, Eland, Gemsbok, Impala and Steenbok (mixed feeders); Bushbuck, Giraffe,Klipspringer and Kudu (browsers); and Chacma Baboon and Black-backed Jackal (other feeders). Cattleand goats occasionally enter the reserve, but are removed immediately when found.A total of 438 head of game was recorded in the southern section of the reserve in 2010, whichincluded the following species: Burchell’s Zebra, Mountain Reedbuck, Red Hartebeest, Roan Antelope,Sable Antelope, Tsessebe, Warthog and Waterbuck (grazers); Common Duiker, Eland, Impala andSteenbok (mixed feeders); Kudu (browser); and Chacma Baboon, Black-backed Jackal and Leopard(other feeders).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 19

The following mammal species included in the IUCN Red Data List of Threatened Species can be foundat the WNR: Leopard (Near Threatened).The following bird species included in the IUCN Red Data List of Threatened Species are known to occurin the WNR: Secretary Bird (Vulnerable).A complete database detailing the diversity of birds, reptiles and amphibian species found in the WNR iscurrently not available.2.4.8 Heritage ResourcesAncestral graves, approximately 150 years old, are present within the reserve, as well as old initiationschool sites.Locals use water obtained from the fountains in the area as part of their rituals and ceremonies. Thisoccurs on request, and a permit is issued for collection.Detailed information on the heritage resources of the WNR is, however, not available.2.4.9 Reserve InfrastructureThe current condition of the fencing along the boundary of the reserve is fair to good, with sections ofthe fence leaning or damaged as a result of trespassing by locals and domestic animals entering thereserve. A 10 km section of the fence, located next to the Glen Alpine dam, is currently only 1.6 m highand allows game to escape from the reserve and livestock to occasionally enter the reserve.There is a total of eight entrance points into the reserve.The WNR is divided into a larger northern and smaller southern section (the latter which is also knownas the Roan Camp) by a gravel road bisecting the area. A gravel road network stretches throughout thereserve and is only used by management. The roads of the reserve are currently generally in a poorcondition, with some roads having been closed as a result of gully erosion. It is estimated that a total ofapproximately 60 km of the reserve’s roads are currently inaccessible.Signage within the reserve is quite old.The basic office is in a moderate to poor condition, and in need of renovation.Covered parking bays for cars are in a reasonable condition.The staff accommodation facilities of the WNR consist of the following:A manager’s house comprising three rooms and a bathroom. This structure relies of solarpower for electricity and is currently in a fair condition.A brick house, comprising eight single rooms, provides accommodation to staff. This structurealso contains a bathroom and a kitchen. This structure is currently in a fair condition, but is notsupplied with electricity.Three park homes have recently been added in order to provide further accommodation forstaff. Electricity for each of these units is currently being installed by the Department of PublicWorks.No visitors’ accommodation is currently available at the WNR.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 20

Storage facilities within the reserve consist of a steel structure, which is divided into two separaterooms and is used for the storage of tools. This structure is currently in a good condition.The cold storage facility of the slaughtering facility of the reserve is currently still incomplete.Twelve rain gauges are distributed throughout the reserve. Only five of these gauges are, however,currently operational as a result of frequent disturbances by individuals of Chacma Baboon.Eleven boreholes (with Lister engines) are distributed throughout the reserve, all of which are currentlyin a working condition. There are also two windmills, of which only one is currently functional.2.5 Local and Regional PlanningThe WNR is located within the Lephalale and Mogalakwena Local Municipalities, which form part of theWaterberg District Municipality of Limpopo Province, as well as the Blouberg Local Municipality, whichforms part of the Capricorn District Municipality of Limpopo Province.There is no mention of WNR in the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) of the Waterberg DistrictMunicipality for the period 2011/2012.The draft IDP of the Mogalakwena Local Municipality for the period 2012 to 2016 lists the WNR as oneof the five proclaimed nature reserves located within the municipal boundaries.2.6 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and ThreatsTable 5 lists the key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that were identified for the WNR.Table 5: Key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats identified for the Wonderkop Nature ReserveKEY STRENGTHS The reserve provides habitat and forage resources for sustaining viable populations of Roan andSable Antelope. Exceptional scenic qualities. The veld condition of the reserve is very good.KEY WEAKNESSES (ISSUES & CHALLENGES) Lack of a dedicated budget for the reserve as a cost centre. The reserve is not registered with a Fire Protection Association (FPA); Staff accommodation is of a poor quality. Insufficient staff and resources. Lack of reserve staff’s capacity to ensure law enforcement. Poor road conditions make access for vehicles difficult for management purposes.OPPORTUNITIES Ease of vehicular access to the reserve from provincial and national roads. Initiate Environmental Education (EE) programs in surrounding communities. There is huge potential to develop the reserve’s tourism facilities and improve the roadinfrastructure to allow better access throughout the reserve. Implement socio-economic upliftment programmes that include the surrounding communities andfarmers.THREATS Poaching of wildlife and the setting of snares by neighbouring communities.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 21

3. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK3.1 PurposeThe WNR was initially purchased by the State for the purpose of re-establishing a black community fromMakgorang. It was later determined, however, that these farms were not suitable for cattle farming asa result of its low carrying capacity, a history of overgrazing and the presence of Poison Leaf. Instead, itwas recommend that the area be developed as a nature reserve, which could later be transferred to thethen Lebowa Government. The reserve later became an important breeding centre for Roan Antelope,while White Rhinoceros also occurred in the area historically.In present times, the value of the WNR as a conservation area can also be attributed to the following:It includes a portion of the poorly protected Roodeberg Bushveld vegetation unit.A combined total of 11 threatened reptile, amphibian, bird and/or mammal species occur at thereserve.The reserve is dissected by the critically endangered Mogalakwena River.The reserve contains areas classified as “highly significant” in terms of Critical BiodiversityValues.The reserve forms part of the expanded Waterberg Biosphere Reserve and is therefore ofinternational importance.The reserve is regarded as having a medium income generating potential.3.2 Reserve ValuesThe following key values of the WNR were identified by the RPT:KEY RESERVE VALUESThe reserve traverses a typical bushveld landscape, dominated by panoramic views, undulatinghills and ‘koppies’.The reserve provides habitat and forage resources for sustaining viable populations of Roan andSable Antelope.The reserve has the potential to demonstrate the efficacy of a functional partnership betweenthe State and a communal land owner – the Tale ga Morudu CPA – in the collaborative planningand management of a provincial nature reserve.The reserve provides access to local communities for livelihood, traditional, cultural andreligious use of its natural resources.3.3 The Reserve VisionThe vision of the reserve describes the overall long-term goal for the operation, protection anddevelopment of the WNR. The following vision was developed by the RPT:LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 22

VISIONWe see a collaborative partnership between the State and the communal landowners of the reserve (represented by the Tale ga Morudu CPA) in the ongoingconservation and sustainable use of the Wonderkop Nature Reserve.From this partnership, we envisage securing: Protection of the biodiversity, heritage and aesthetic values of thereserve; Equitable access to, and responsible use of, the reserve and its naturalresources; and Meaningful and sustained benefits derived for the communal landowners.3.4 Key Performance Areas and ObjectivesThe RPT identified 24 Objectives for the WNR.contribute to realising the Vision for the reserve.Collectively these objectives are anticipated toThese objectives have, in turn, been grouped into six Key Performance Areas (KPAs), as follows:KEY PERFORMANCEAREAS (KPA)KPA 1:Biodiversity andHeritageConservationKPA 2:Sustainable UseKPA 3:Enforcement,Security and AccessControlOBJECTIVES1.1 Re-establish, manage and maintain viable populations of locallyindigenous fauna in the WNR.1.2 Maintain a natural fire regime within the WNR.1.3 Contain the spread, and impacts, of invasive alien plants and bushencroachment in the WNR.1.4 Identify, rehabilitate and manage areas that have been significantlyimpacted by soil erosion in the WNR.1.5 Protect the heritage resources of the WNR.1.6 Update key baseline information, and develop and maintain a targetedresearch and monitoring program to guide biodiversity management inthe WNR.2.1 Design and develop tourism infrastructure, facilities and services in theWNR.2.2 Facilitate the sustainable use of natural resources in the WNR.2.3 Manage and mitigate the environmental impacts of conservationmanagement and natural resource use in the WNR.2.4 Develop and implement a focused and cost-effective educationalprogramme for the WNR.3.1 Secure the boundaries of, and maintain controlled access to, the WNR.3.2 Sustain an effective law enforcement and compliance capacity in theWNR.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 23

KPA 4:Infrastructure andEquipment(Operations)KPA 5:StakeholderInvolvementKPA 6:Administration andPlanning4.1 Develop and maintain the road and track network in the WNR.4.2 Construct, maintain and upgrade the bulk services infrastructure in theWNR.4.3 Construct, upgrade and maintain administrative, staff and operationalbuildings and infrastructure in the WNR.4.4 Acquire and maintain operational equipment and vehicles for the WNR.5.1 Ensure the ongoing involvement of a representative and functionalWonderkop Nature Reserve Management Committee in the planning,development and management of the WNR.5.2 Develop and implement effective mechanisms for ongoingcommunications with local stakeholders and neighbouring communities.5.3 Actively participate in local and regional conservation and socio-economicdevelopment initiatives that may affect or benefit the WNR.5.4 Identify, and enable access to employment, empowerment and capacitybuilding opportunities for local communities.6.1 Secure the legal tenure of, and management authority for, the WNR.6.2 Maintain an adequately equipped, resourced and trained staffcomplement for the WNR.6.3 Institute and maintain an effective administrative and planning capabilityin the WNR.6.4 Establish, maintain and host a reliable inventory of key information on theWNR and its ongoing management.3.5 ZonationBased on available information, and in consultation with the RPT, a Use Zone Map (UZM) is presentedas a broad overarching medium-term spatial planning framework for the WNR (Figure 6).The UZM indicates the extent and location of suitable visitor use zones for the reserve, withmanagement guidelines and broad conservation and tourism infrastructural requirements designatedfor each use zone.Annexure 1 describes the objectives, characteristics, uses and management guidelines for each of theuse zones shown in Figure 6.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 24

Figure 6: Use Zone Map for the Wonderkop Nature Reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 25

4. STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKThis section translates the strategic objectives framework described in Section 3 into guiding principlesfor management, management actions and management targets (for each set of objectives withineach KPA), which will be used to inform APOs and the resources required to implement it.The guiding principles are the norms and standards by which the WNR will make its operationalmanagement decisions and conduct its activities.Management actions are the key strategic activities that should be implemented to achieve the reserveobjectives. Management actions are defined and prioritized for the five-year time horizon of this SP.Each management action has been prioritised as follows:CATEGORYHIGHMEDIUMLOWPRIORITIESCritical to the effective management 5 of the reserve. Funding and resources should besecured to implement these actions.Important to the effective management of the reserve, but its implementation may bedelayed because of limited funds or resources.Constitutes good management practice, but not necessarily critical or important toreserve management effectiveness. Implementation may be dependent on theavailability of external funding or support.Time Frames, Targets, Key Performance Indicators and Responsibilities are, in turn, allocated to eachmanagement action, or a group of linked management actions.In this section, the guiding principles and management activities (organised by management action,priority, target, performance indicator, responsibility and timelines) are presented separately for eachKPA and its set of related objectives.5 As reflected in the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT).LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 26

KPA 1: BIODIVERSITY AND HERITAGE CONSERVATIONGuiding principles for reserve managementFauna# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to wildlife management:- Guidelines for aerial game census on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/1);- Guidelines for culling on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/7);- Technical management guidelines and procedures for game registers on provincialnature reserves (12/6/12/7/8);- Technical management guidelines and procedures for game capture on provincialnature reserves (12/6/12/7/8);- Technical management guidelines and procedures for the introduction of mammalsinto provincial nature reserves (2008);- Policy on the donation of game from State-owned nature reserves to HistoricallyDisadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) in the wildlife industry;- Provincial directive on the control and management of damage-causing wild animalsin Limpopo Province; and- Draft policy for the reduction of game from (provincial) nature reserves.23456Wildlife management in the reserve must be focused primarily on protecting the ecologicalfunctioning of the reserve.Wildlife stocking densities should be maintained within the ecological capacity of thesupporting habitats of the reserve.A regular programme for monitoring the veld condition, the animal numbers and the physicalcondition of animals must be in place to ensure that the ecological capacity of the reserve isnot exceeded.Population management of wildlife species shall be required to ensure that such species arenot causing the ecological degradation of the reserve.Wherever practicable, non-lethal and environmentally-friendly measures should bedeveloped and implemented to limit, or mitigate, the impacts of any indigenous problemcausinganimal in, or escaping from, the reserve.Fire# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1 The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the NVFFA.23Unplanned wildfires that occur in areas where it could have undesirable ecological effects,threaten reserve infrastructure, or threaten neighbouring properties shall be suppressed orcontrolled wherever possible.Unplanned wildfires that occur in reserve areas where it will do no ecological harm and/orthreaten properties may be allowed to burn, provided that safety concerns are notcompromised.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 27

456Fire protection measures and resources (equipment, trained personnel, firebreaks, etc.) mustbe maintained and effective in the reserve at all times.The reserve management shall, wherever possible, establish partnerships with neighboursand other role-players through agreements and membership of FPAs.Controlled block burns can only be implemented after an ecological assessment of the drymatter/fuel load has been completed.Invasive alien plants / bush encroachment# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of Sections 64-77 of NEMBA and therelevant sections of CARA, as amended.23All declared invasive alien plant species occurring in the reserve shall be eradicated, using themost cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods.While active bush encroachment control measures (mechanical, fire, biological and/orchemical) will be adopted in the reserve in the short-term, the primary long-termmanagement objective is sound veld management practices (conservative wildlife stockingrates, natural patch burn regimes, adequate water provision and soil conservation).Erosion control# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1Areas susceptible to soil erosion, or showing early signs of soil erosion, such as a loss ofvegetation cover, must be managed to prevent soil erosion.2Areas impacted by soil erosion should be stabilised and re-vegetated with indigenous plantspecies to prevent the spread of listed invasive plant species.Heritage resources# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1 The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the NHRA.Biodiversity inventory, research and monitoring# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to monitoring:- Guidelines for monitoring of climate and maintenance and establishment of climaterelatedinfrastructure on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/2).2The collection of baseline information, support for research projects and the ongoingimplementation of monitoring programmes shall be focused on, and directed towards,supporting operational planning and decision-making in the reserve.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 28

Management actions and targetsKPA 1: Biodiversity and Heritage ConservationObjective 1.1: Re-establish, manage and maintain viable populations of locally indigenous fauna in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Develop and maintain a basic Wildlife Management Programme forAll wildlife stocking Carrying capacity ofthe WNR.densities contained vegetation (based on(ii) Under the direction of the Game Monitoring Strategy conduct anat levels below the VCA) vs. Large andaerial game census (during late winter).ecological capacity of medium-sized game(iii) Based on the outcomes of the most recent game census data, fieldthe vegetation. counts (based on gameranger reports, the current veld condition assessment (VCA) and thecensus).stocking rates determined in the Wildlife Management Programme,annually determine the culling/capture requirements for mediumsizedand large game species.(iv) Annually implement the reserve-based culling activities, asdetermined in Objective 1.1, Action (iii) above.(v) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme,provide support to, and oversee, any outsourced game capture,culling and/or hunting operations in the reserve.(vi) Under direction of the Wildlife Management Programme(supplemented by consultation with wildlife specialists), providetechnical support to any wildlife restocking or new introductions thatmay be required, notably in respect of the Sable and Roan Antelopepopulations (see also Objective 1.5 below).(vii) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme,remove (via hunting or live capture and translocation) all RedHartebeest from the reserve.(viii) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme,maintain the supplementary feeding programme, and provision oflicks, for Roan and Sable Antelope in the southern camp with the long-ResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit)LEDET (BiodiversityUnit)LEDET (BiodiversityUnit); WonderkopNature ReserveManagementCommittee;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve Manager;Wonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommitteeLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 29

term objective of phasing out this activity (see Activity 1.1 (ix) below).(ix) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme,develop and implement a programme that: (i) provides for thecontrolled movement of medium- and large-sized game speciesbetween the southern and northern sections of the reserve; and (ii)the consequent phasing out of the supplementary feeding of, andsupply of licks for, game (notably Sable and Roan Antelope) in thesouthern reserve section.(x) Maintain the game water points in the reserve, with a focus onkeeping the existing 11 boreholes (and associated pumps, pipes,reservoirs/tanks and troughs) and two windmills (and associatedpipes, reservoirs/tanks and troughs) functional.(xi) Retain a veterinary service for the reserve to enable the regularmonitoring and testing of key game species for outbreaks of disease(e.g. cytauxzoonosis).(xii) Assess, and facilitate the implementation of a range ofenvironmentally friendly measures (e.g. kraaling livestock at night,protective livestock collars and/or livestock guarding animals) toreduce the impacts of any damage-causing and problem animals,notably the predation of livestock by Leopard.Objective 1.2: Maintain a natural fire regime within the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Determine the optimal natural fire regimes for the differentFires in the reservehabitats represented in the reserve.do not have(ii) Prepare and maintain a simple, functional Fire ManagementundesirableProgramme for the WNR.ecological effects,threaten reserve(iii) Under the direction of the Fire Management Programme,infrastructure ormaintain a system of (~5 m) perimeter fire breaks.threaten(iv) Ensure that all reserve management staff are adequately trainedneighbouringand equipped to implement the Fire Management Programme.properties.(v) Under the direction of the Fire Management Programme, pilot acontrol block burning program in the reserve.(vi) Install and maintain basic fire protection measures (e.g. fireextinguishers, fire hoses and roof sprinklers) in all administrative andCost of damage resultingfrom fires spreading toneighbouring properties(based on insuranceclaim).Cost of damage toreserve infrastructurefrom fires (based oninsurance claim).Ecological condition(based on vegetationmonitoring and level ofbush encroachment).LEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerReserve ManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); WonderkopNature ReserveManagementCommitteeResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit)LEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 30

staff accommodation buildings.(vii) Maintain, in accordance with the requirements of the FireManagement Programme, records of all fires occurring in the reserve.Objective 1.3: Contain the spread, and impacts of, invasive alien plants and bush encroachment in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Eradicate, on an ongoing basis, all known invasive alien plantinfestations occurring in the reserve, notably Prickly Pear and Queenof the Night.(ii) Map, and annually monitor, the extent and density of areas in thereserve subject to unacceptable levels of bush encroachment.(iii) Pilot a control block burning programme in the reserve to test itsefficacy in containing the further spread, densification and impacts ofbush encroachment (notably Sickle Bush) – see also Objective 1.2 (v).(iv) Pilot a firewood collection program in the reserve for localcommunities, to test its efficacy in containing the further spread,densification and impacts of bush encroachment (notably Sickle Bush).No seeding invasivealien plants.No further spread, ordensification, of bushencroachment.Extent, by density, ofinvasive alien plants.Extent, by density, ofbush encroachment.Objective 1.4: Identify, rehabilitate and manage areas that have been significantly impacted by soil erosion in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Undertake a detailed survey of the WNR to identify the extent,Extent and severity ofseverity and main causes of soil erosion in the reserve.erosion (map).(ii) Develop an erosion control programme that identifies themanagement requirements for soil erosion control and rehabilitationwithin the reserve (e.g. improving the alignment and management ofmanagement roads), and describes the joint activities requiredbetween neighbouring communities and the reserve to address soilerosion effects along the reserve boundary (e.g. managing overgrazingand mitigating effects of paths created by livestock).(iii) Implement soil erosion control and rehabilitation measures in thereserve, focussing strategically on key eroded areas, such as along theA five-year soilerosion controlprogramme, withassociated resourcesto implement highpriority activities inthe programme.No further spread (byextent) or increase inseverity of erosion.Reserve ManagerResponsibilityReserve ManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerWonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommittee;Reserve ManagerResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 31

fence line, on well-used management roads and in primarywatercourses.Objective 1.5: Protect the heritage resources of the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) In collaboration with academic institutions, research, document,Heritage resources State (using a simplemap and inventorize the heritage resources of the reserve.documented, and grading system) of(ii) Develop and implement a prioritised programme of basicproperly maintained. heritage resources.maintenance of these heritage resources.(iii) Provide, on request, controlled access to recognisedcultural/religious sites (e.g. grave sites) for non-destructive orconsumptive cultural/religious practices (e.g. the collection offountain water) in the reserve.ResponsibilityRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Objective 1.6: Update key baseline information, and develop and maintain a targeted research and monitoring programme to guide biodiversity management inthe WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Identify, and prioritise, the reserve’s biodiversity managementn/arequirements for baseline information, research and monitoring.(ii) Collect key baseline biodiversity data and research information forthe reserve, including vegetation community and species mapping;faunal species data and population profiles; carrying capacities ofreserve habitats; optimal stocking rates of wildlife species; andoptimal fire regimes for different vegetation types.(iii) Develop, implement and/or maintain the key biodiversitymonitoring activities in the reserve, including veld conditionassessment; climate records; and game counts.(iv) Review and identify the management needs forimproving/supplementing the genetic stock of Roan Antelope in thereserve.(v) Facilitate access for external research institutions/NGOs toimplement the reserve’s priority research and monitoringrequirements.Reserve database ofmanagementorientedbiodiversityinformation.ResponsibilityLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 32

KPA 2: SUSTAINABLE USEGuiding principles for reserve managementTourism infrastructure, facilities and services# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1In developing and maintaining tourism and recreational infrastructure and services, thereserve shall obtain the necessary authorisation in terms of the relevant building, water,drainage, health, safety, waste, traffic and environmental Acts, Regulations and By-laws.23Tourism and recreational infrastructure and services developed within the nature reservemust be appropriate to the purpose for which the reserve has been proclaimed, and must notthreaten its biodiversity or ecological function.Tourism and recreational infrastructure and services shall be developed in response totourism market demands and opportunities within the reserve, and should be carefullyassessed to determine its viability.Natural resource harvesting# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to natural resource use:- Guidelines for culling on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/7);- Technical management guidelines and procedures for game capture on provincial1nature reserves (12/6/12/7/8);- Policy on the donation of game from State-owned nature reserves to HistoricallyDisadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) in the wildlife industry; and- Draft policy for the reduction of game from (provincial) nature reserves.2Sustainable use of natural and biological resources may be undertaken under strictlycontrolled conditions, provided that it does not compromise the ecological functioning orbiodiversity conservation imperatives of the reserve.Managing environmental impacts of use# GUIDING PRINCIPLEThe reserve shall strive to continually improve its environmental management systems,through reducing or mitigating the environmental impacts of, inter alia: administrative and1 visitor infrastructure; visitor activities; road networks; solid waste disposal; water supply anddistribution systems; energy supply and distribution networks; sewage systems; and herbicideand fuel supplies.Education# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall collaborate and cooperate with key local, regional and institutional partnersto develop the use of the reserve as a local educational resource for teaching institutions.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 33

Management actions and targetsKPA 2: Sustainable UseObjective 2.1: Design and develop tourism infrastructure, facilities and services in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Develop a nature-based ‘tourism strategy’ to guide and direct theTourism strategy.n/afuture development of tourism and recreational facilities and servicesFeasibilityin the reserve.assessment.(ii) Prepare a feasibility assessment, identify prospective financingoptions, and assess the cost-effectiveness of different managementscenarios for the development of a lodge and/or tented camp in thesouthern section of the reserve (see Figure 6 for proposed location).(iii) If feasible, initiate the planning and development of thelodge/tented camp and associated services (e.g. roads and bulkinfrastructure) in the reserve.(iv) Standardise, install and maintain directional and informationalsignage en route to, and at the entrance of, the reserve.Objective 2.2: Facilitate the sustainable use of natural resources in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme (seen/aAnnual income (R) fromKPA 1, Objective 1.1), and in conformance with the Wonderkop Co-meat sales.Management Agreement, annually determine and allocate thecommunity portion of any culling/hunting activities to be undertaken.(ii) Under the direction of the Wildlife Management Programme (seeKPA 1, Objective 1.1), and in conformance with the Wonderkop Co-Management Agreement, administer the sale and/or distribution ofmeat from culling/hunting operations to local communities.(iii) Facilitate controlled access to targeted local communities for thesustainable harvesting of wood on a pilot basis (see Objective 1.3 (iv));ResponsibilityLTA; WonderkopNature ReserveManagementCommitteeLTA; WonderkopNature ReserveManagementCommitteeLTA; WonderkopNature ReserveManagementCommitteeReserve ManagerResponsibilityWonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommitteeReserve Manager;Wonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommitteeReserve Manager;Wonderkop NatureTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 34

the seasonal gathering of broom grass (for thatching, brooms andfodder) on a permit basis; and the collection of fountain water (forcultural/ religious purposes) from the reserve.(iv) Record the levels, and monitor the impacts, of the range ofcommunity-based natural resource uses - notably the collection ofgrass in winter - and update the use guidelines, approval proceduresand permitting system, as required.ReserveManagementCommitteeLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerObjective 2.3: Manage and mitigate the environmental impacts of conservation management and natural resource use in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Close/remove/demolish and rehabilitate all extraneous and unusedn/abuildings and foundations, dumped materials, old equipment,shooting ranges, loading ramps and old fencing.(ii) Rationalise the road/track network of the reserve, and close andrehabilitate all unused and superfluous roads/tracks.No extraneousbuilding, equipmentand infrastructure inthe reserve.Objective 2.4: Develop and implement a focused and cost-effective education programme for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Establish links with local educational institutions and networks inorder to promote subsidised access to, and use of, the reserve as aneducational resource.(ii) Appoint an Education (and Outreach) Officer to establish andmaintain these educational linkages, facilitate access to the reservefor educational purposes and to develop/source educationalresources for use in local schools.Improved awarenessin local communitiesof the conservationvalues of the reserve.Number of individuals(per annum) from localcommunities involved ineducational/awarenessraisingprogram.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerResponsibilityReserve ManagerLEDET (HumanResourceDepartment)Time frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 35

KPA 3: ENFORCEMENT, SECURITY AND ACCESS CONTROLGuiding principles for reserve managementBoundaries and access control# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to boundaries and access control:- Technical management guidelines and procedures for the management of access andaccess control on provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/4); and- Guidelines for fencing of provincial nature reserves (12/6/12/7/3).23The boundaries of the reserve shall, at all times, be clearly demarcated and be regularlymaintained.All entry and exit points shall be properly managed to ensure that access to, and through, thereserve is effectively controlled at all times.Law enforcement and compliance# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1Law enforcement and compliance activities shall be guided by the following LEDET document: Strategic planning for law enforcement in State-owned nature reserves.2An adequately trained and suitably equipped field ranger complement shall be deployed inand around the reserve to, inter alia: control illegal activities; ensure the safety of visitors;monitor the activities of users and visitors; collect baseline information; and undertake thebasic maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 36

Management actions and targetsKPA 3: Enforcement, Security and Access ControlObjective3.1: Secure the boundaries of, and maintain controlled access to, the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure that all eight reserve entry points/gates are secure andThe reserve assets Record of naturaladequately administered.are secure.resource use in reserve.(ii) Maintain and administer an access control and/or permittingThe reserve visitors Incident record of illegalsystem for access to the reserve for hunting (commercial operators),and users have access.the harvesting of broom grass, the collection of firewood, visitingequitable access tograve sites and the collection of fountain water (local communities).the reserve, and aresafe from harm.(iii) Upgrade ~10 km of 1.6 m high boundary stock fence (in the areaadjacent to the Glen Alpine Dam) to 2.4 m high game fencing.(iv) Ensure the regular maintenance of the perimeter fencing in thereserve.(v) Facilitate controlled access for external institutions, organisationsand/or NGOs undertaking relevant research and monitoring programswithin the reserve.Objective 3.2: Sustain an effective law enforcement and compliance capacity in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure the provision of enforcement and compliance training for allIncremental decrease Number of formalreserve field staff.in incidences of warnings and fines(ii) Ensure that the field ranger staff complement is adequatelyillegal activities issued, and successfulresourced and equipped to fulfil an effective enforcement andoccurring in the prosecutions concluded.compliance function.reserve.(iii) Maintain regular foot and vehicle patrols of the reserve and itsboundaries, focusing on known poaching ‘hotspots’ in the northernsection.(iv) Maintain and collate information on all enforcement incidents.(v) Establish and maintain a network of informants in local villages.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerWonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommittee;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerLEDET (BiodiversityUnit); ReserveManagerResponsibilityLEDET: HR & HRDLEDET: HR, HRD &SISReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 37

(vi) Undertake a threat analysis to determine all potential threats tothe safety and security of the reserve.LEDET: SONR &SpecialInvestigationsLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 38

KPA 4: INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT (OPERATIONS) 6Guiding principles for reserve managementRoads, track and footpaths# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to the development, maintenance and upgrading of roads:- Technical management guidelines and procedures for the development, maintenanceand upgrading of roads in provincial nature reserves.2The reserve shall rationalise its network of roads, tracks and footpaths to reduce maintenancecosts and limit environmental impacts, while ensuring adequate access for tourism andoperational management requirements.Bulk services# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following legislation in supplyingbulk services:- NEMWA;- WSA;- NBRBSA; and- Municipal By-laws.2The reserve shall strive to phase out bulk services that have a detrimental impact on theenvironment. It shall, in turn, seek to introduce more sustainable technologies, whereverpracticable and cost-effective.Administrative and other operations infrastructure# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1In developing and maintaining administrative and operations infrastructure, the reserve shallobtain the necessary authorisation in terms of the relevant building, water, drainage, health,safety, waste, traffic and environmental Acts, Regulations and By-laws.2Administrative and operations infrastructure and services must be limited, and appropriatelyscaled, to the necessary administrative and operational requirements of the reserve, andmust not threaten its biodiversity or ecological function.Operations equipment and vehicles# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall acquire and/or replace the equipment and vehicles necessary to implementthe high priority activities identified in this SP.6 Dedicated tourism infrastructure and facilities are addressed under KPA 2.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 39

2All reserve equipment and vehicles shall be regularly maintained in accordance with themanufacturers’ specifications.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 40

Management actions and targetsKPA 4: Infrastructure and equipment (operations)Objective 4.1: Develop and maintain the road, track and footpath network in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Schedule, and implement, the maintenance of the network ofState (using a gradingmanagement tracks and roads in the reserve, with a strong focus onsystem) of visitor roadsimproving the surface and drainage of highly erodible roads.and footpaths.(ii) Close and rehabilitate all unused, extraneous and/or highlyerodible management tracks and roads in the reserve (see alsoObjective 2.5 (ii)).(iii) Review the feasibility of establishing and administering acontrolled boom system across the two entry points of the publicgravel road traversing the reserve (and the subsequent removal ofreserve fences along the road reserve).Rationalised networkof well-maintainedvisitor roads andfootpaths.Objective 4.2: Construct, maintain and upgrade the bulk services infrastructure in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Maintain (and replace as necessary) all reserve boreholes,Capacity of bulk Records of instances ofwindmills, pipes, diesel engines, electrical motors, reservoirs andservices exceeds overloading of the bulktanks supplying water to wildlife water points, staff accommodationreserve management service supplies.and the office complex.use requirements.(ii) Upgrade the sewage system for staff accommodation units, andmaintain the system of ‘French drains’ in the reserve.(iii) Ensure the regular removal of all solid waste from the reserve tothe municipal dumpsite at Rebone.(iv) Facilitate the provision of outstanding Eskom power connectionsto the administrative complex and all staff accommodation.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerLEDET; Departmentof Roads andTransportResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerLEDET; RegionalManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 41

Objective 4.3: Construct, upgrade and maintain administrative, staff and operational buildings and infrastructure in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure the regular maintenance of all reserve administrative, staffSufficient, and State (using a gradingand operational buildings and infrastructure.adequatelysystem) of reserve(ii) Replace all existing staff mobile homes with permanent structuresmaintained, reserve buildings and(construct 10 new staff accommodation units and one Reserveadministration, staff infrastructure.Manager’s house).accommodation and Conformance with OHS(iii) Renovate/upgrade the office complex (painting, roof repair,operational buildings standards.flooring, plumbing, etc.).and infrastructure.(iv) Complete the reserve carcass processing facility, which comprisesa slaughtering area, carcass processing area and cold storage unit, togut, slaughter and store culled and hunted wildlife for sale to localcommunities and neighbours.(v) Construct three new ranger outposts in the northern section of thereserve, and renovate/upgrade all existing ranger outposts.(vi) Maintain and constantly update an equipment and infrastructureregister.Objective 4.4: Acquire and maintain operational equipment and vehicles for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Maintain a reliable internal communications network for theState (using a gradingreserve, including repeaters, a base station, hand-held radios and carsystem) of reserveradios.equipment and vehicles.(ii) Maintain and/or replace all reserve vehicles and equipmentaccording to the manufacturers’ specifications and/or corporatereplacement cycles.(iii) Procure a new tractor and trailer.(iv) Maintain an electronic network (i.e. internet and e-mail) for, andconnect services and applications to, the reserve.Sufficient, andadequatelymaintained, reserveequipment andvehicles.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerDepartment ofPublic Works;Reserve ManagerReserve Managerand LEDET(LogisticSupport Services)Department ofPublic Works,Regional Manager;Reserve ManagerDepartment ofPublic Works;Regional Manager;Reserve ManagerReserve ManagerResponsibilityReserve ManagerLEDET: TransportReserve ManagerLEDET: ITTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 42

KPA 5: STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENTGuiding principles for reserve managementWonderkop Nature Reserve Management Committee# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall actively participate in, and support, the WNRMC as an importantcooperative governance mechanism to achieve the aims and objectives of the Wonderkop Co-Management Agreement.Stakeholder communications# GUIDING PRINCIPLEStakeholder communications shall be focused on strengthening a sense of ownership andempowerment in the local communities, through an improved understanding of the1contribution of the reserve to socio-economic development and heritage/biodiversityconservation.2Stakeholder communications shall seek to develop a common understanding within thesurrounding communities of the issues affecting the integrity of the reserve, and collaborativeapproaches to resolve these.Local and regional initiatives# GUIDING PRINCIPLE12The reserve management shall actively collaborate with national, provincial and local tourismand conservation initiatives that could contribute to meeting the objectives of this SP.The reserve shall strive to work with the relevant government institutions in order tointegrate all local and regional planning and socio-economic development activities affectingthe reserve.Employment, empowerment and capacity building# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall strive to contribute to the socio-economic development of local surroundingcommunities, specifically the socio-economic development commitments made in terms ofthe Wonderkop Co-Management Agreement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 43

Management actions and targetsKPA 5: Stakeholder InvolvementObjective 5.1: Establish and maintain a representative and functional reserve management committee 7 to guide the planning, development and management ofthe WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Formally constitute the WNRMC in accordance with theRegular meetings of Record of meetings andrequirements of the Wonderkop Co-Management Agreement.the WNRMC.decisions.(ii) Provide ongoing support (logistical, administrative, technical,professional, financial and/or leadership) to, and actively participatein, the effective functioning of the WNRMC.(iii) Continually review, and amend (as required), the structure,representation and TOR of the WNRMC to ensure that it contributesto realising the intent of the Wonderkop Co-Management Agreement.(iv) Support the ongoing capacity building of the Tale Ga Morudu CPArepresentatives serving on the WNRMC.(v) Allocate office space in the office complex for use by the CPArepresentatives serving in the WNRMC.ResponsibilityReserve Manager;Regional ManagerReserve Manager;Regional ManagerWonderkop NatureReserveManagementCommittee;Regional ManagerProtected AreaManagement(PAM)Reserve ManagerObjective 5.2: Develop and implement effective mechanisms for ongoing communications with local stakeholders and neighbouring communitiesManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Maintain a community outreach program in the approximately 20n/aRecord of communitycommunities surrounding the reserve (to be implemented by themeetings.Education and Community Outreach Officer – see Objective 2.4 (ii)).ResponsibilityLEDET; RegionalManager; ReserveManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 57 This reserve management committee may need to be re-constituted when all land claims over the reserve have been finalised and a formal co-management agreement concluded with the relevant successful landclaimants.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 44

Objective 5.3: Actively participate in local and regional conservation and socio-economic initiatives that may affect or benefit the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Actively participate in the relevant local municipal IDP planningImproved costeffectivenessn/aprocesses, with a specific focus on the provision of municipalofinfrastructure and services to the reserve and on identifyingreserve operations asopportunities for local community beneficiation from local municipala result ofdevelopment and capacity-building initiatives.local/regional(ii) Liaise with, and participate in, the ongoing activities of thepartnerships.Mogalakwena Sub-Catchment Forum, as it may affect or benefit thereserve.(iii) Liaise with, and participate in, the ongoing activities of theWaterberg Biosphere Reserve initiative, as it may affect or benefit thereserve.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerObjective 5.4: Identify and enable access to employment, empowerment and capacity building opportunities for local communitiesManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Identify, secure and implement EPWP-related funding/resourcesTo be determined. Direct employmentfor relevant tourism and conservation initiatives in the reserve.(person days).(ii) Develop opportunities for selected individuals from the localcommunities to be trained and directly employed in appropriateconservation-related work in the reserve, including fencingconstruction and maintenance; capital development projects; invasivealien plant and bush encroachment control; security; roadmaintenance; fire management; and erosion control.ResponsibilityLEDET: EconomicDevelopmentReserve Manager,Regional Managerand Supply ChainTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 45

KPA 6: ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNINGGuiding principles for reserve managementLegal status# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The legal tenure for the effective planning and management of the reserve as a provincialprotected area shall be secured.2The reserve shall identify, prioritise and strive to seek the cost-effective incorporation ofidentified land parcels into the reserve.Human resources# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following human resourceslegislation:- LRA;- BCEA;- EEA;- SDA;- OHSA; and- PSA.2The reserve shall identify opportunities for the training, capacity building and/or preferentialemployment of individuals permanently resident in surrounding villages.Administration# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1The reserve shall conform to the legal requirements of the following financial managementlegislation:- PFMA (and associated Treasury Regulations).23The reserve shall conform to the following LEDET policies, procedures and/or guidelinesrelating to reserve administration:- Draft procedure manual for demand and acquisition management.The reserve shall conform to all other relevant provincial/departmental financial andadministrative reporting requirements.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 46

Information management# GUIDING PRINCIPLE1All information that is used to support the operational planning and decision-making in thereserve shall be collected, collated, updated, maintained and presented in a cost-effectiveformat that is readily accessible for use by management.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 47

Management actions and targetsKPA 6: Administration and PlanningObjective 6.1: Secure the legal tenure of, and management authority for, the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Review the efficacy and ongoing relevance of the Wonderkop Co-WNR listed in then/aManagement Agreement and amend or revise, as required.national protected(ii) Negotiate the possible incorporation (and formal proclamation) ofareas register.~750 ha of adjacent land owned by the Tale Ga Morudu CPA into thereserve, with the primary objective of absorbing the existing (but notfunctioning) eco-tourism facility into the reserve.Objective 6.2: Maintain an adequately equipped, resourced and trained staff complement for the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Ensure that all vacant posts in the reserve’s approved organogramFull staffn/aare filled.complement.(ii) Identify training needs, and facilitate access to training programsfor reserve staff, with a priority focus on ABET, EMI, field ranger, antipoaching,first aid, fire management, firearm handling, erosioncontrol, small equipment and IT skills training.(iii) Implement the institutional staff performance appraisal system.(iv) Ensure that each staff member is regularly issued withstandardised uniform, protective clothing (as may be required) andthe necessary equipment to fulfil their job function.(v) Maintain all staff information for the reserve (leave records,attendance registers, overtime, etc.).(vi) Implement the institutional Occupational Health and Safetypolicies and procedures in the reserve.ResponsibilityLEDET; Tale GaMorudu CPALEDETResponsibilityLEDET (HumanResourceDepartment)Reserve Manager;Regional ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 48

Objective 6.3: Institute and maintain an effective administrative and planning capability in the WNRManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Maintain and update all assets and stock inventory registers andAsset inventory, Spot checks.reports for the reserve.stock registers,(ii) Maintain a reserve-based record of all purchases made, accountsfinancial records,paid and services procured in support of reserve operations over eachmonthly reports andfinancial year.APOs are all up to(iii) Prepare the reserve Annual Plan of Operation (APO).date.(iv) Facilitate the implementation of annual METT-SA assessments forthe reserve.Objective 6.4: Establish, maintain and host a reliable inventory of key information on the WNR and its ongoing managementManagement action Priority Management targets Key performanceindicators(i) Prepare and submit monthly reports to the Regional Manager.Up to date, andn/a(ii) Institute and maintain an electronic and/or hard copy filing systemaccessible,for all reserve-specific information.information on thereserve and itsmanagement.ResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerReserve ManagerRegional Manager;Reserve ManagerResponsibilityReserve ManagerReserve ManagerTime frame1 2 3 4 5Time frame1 2 3 4 5LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 49

5. RESOURCING AND GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORKThis section provides brief recommendations on the minimum staffing complement and funding thatwould be required to implement the RMP (i.e. the SP and APO).This section also briefly describes the key responsibilities of the reserve management team and theproposed Wonderkop Nature Reserve Management Committee in the development, implementation,monitoring and review of the RMP.5.1 Staffing RequirementsIt is proposed that the following minimum staffing complement 8 would be required to implement thisSP 9 :POST DESIGNATIONNUMBERReserve Manager 1Nature Conservator 1Education and Outreach Officer 1Senior Field Ranger 3Field Ranger 20Logistical Support Servies:Cleaner; andStorekeeper.Administrative Clerk 1Artisan 111Total 308 This minimum staff complement assumes that any future overnight tourism facilities and services will be outsourced to an operator orconcessionaire and that the reserve management will not be directly responsible for the management of these facilities and services.9 The staffing requirements reflected in the SP are premised on two elements: (i) a critical assessment of the efficacy of the current approved(not actual) organogram for the reserve in respect of current reserve management responsibilities; and (ii) a facilitated discussion with the RPTon any (mostly minor) adjustments/changes that may be required to this approved organogram in order to more effectively implement the SPfor the next five years.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 50

5.2 Funding RequirementsIt is proposed that the following operational 10 and capital 11 budget would be required to implement this SP:KEY PERFORMANCE AREAKPA 1: Biodiversity and heritageconservation2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)CAPEX(R)OPEX(R)1,200,000 65,000 650,000 70,000 120,000 75,000 80,000 75,000 25,000 80,000KPA 2: Sustainable use 0 15,000 0 15,000 0 15,000 0 15,000 130,000 20,000KPA 3: Enforcement, security andaccess control265,000 45,000 40,000 55,000 0 60,000 0 65,000 0 65,000KPA 4: Infrastructure and equipment 650,000 60,000 520,000 70,000 460,000 85,000 200,000 95,000 240,000 105,000KPA 5: Stakeholder involvement 0 10,000 0 10,000 0 15,000 0 15,000 0 20,000KPA 6: Administration and planning 0 15,000 0 20,000 0 25,000 0 25,000 0 30,000Total 2,115,000 210,000 1,210,000 240,000 580,000 275,000 280,000 290,000 395,000 320,00010 Operational costs are roughly based on an area-complexity factor (i.e. different cost ranges per ha, based on the level (high, medium or low) of management complexity). This was then moderated against documentedexpenditure for operational costs in LEDET reserves, wherever available. This was then again moderated against equivalent reserves in Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Western Cape, as well as reserves of SANParks and ECParks,where operating costs have stabilised and are well documented over a period of three to five years.11 Capital budget requirements are roughly based on known costs for similar capital investments, either in terms of replacement costs (e.g. vehicles), infrastructure development costs (e.g. cost/ha or cost/km for fencing orroads), bulk services (e.g. costs/m for pipelines, etc.), or building costs (e.g. cost/m 2 for staff accommodation or chalets), etc.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 51

5.3 Roles and ResponsibilitiesThe key responsibilities of the reserve management team and the proposed WNRMC in thedevelopment, implementation, monitoring and review of the RMP are summarised as follows:Reserve Management Team (SONR)Regional Manager(Waterberg)Reserve Manager(Wonderkop NatureReserve)Biodiversity Unit(LEDET HO)The Regional Manager shall have overall responsibility for:- Ensuring the alignment of the SP with Provincial and LEDET policies andguidelines;- Ensuring the coordination and alignment of the SP with other LEDETdepartmental activities and initiatives;- Providing oversight of the implementation the SP and APO;- Reporting on the performance of the WNR in the implementation ofthe SP and APO to the Senior Manager (SONR);- Instituting corrective actions to ensure that the SP and linked APO areimplemented, reviewed and updated; and- Approval of the APO.The Reserve Manager shall have direct responsibility for: Annually drafting an APO to operationalize the priority activitiesidentified in the SP; Implementation of the APO; Monitoring of performance against the APO (and the SP); Reporting on the performance of the WNR against the APO (and theSP) to the WNRMC; Management of reserve staff, resources and finances in theimplementation of the APO; and Communicating with the Regional Manager about obstacles in theimplementation of the APO.The Biodiversity Unit of LEDET shall have direct responsibility for: Implementation of the designated priority activities in the SP andlinked APO; and Providing professional and technical support to the Regional Manager,Reserve Manager and WNRMC in the implementation of the SP andAPO.Wonderkop Nature Reserve Management CommitteeThe WNRMC may have overall responsibility for: Representing the interests of the different reserve stakeholder groups and institutions duringthe preparation of the SP and APOs; Overseeing the drafting of the SP and APOs; Providing strategic inputs into the drafting of the SP, and technical inputs into the annualdrafting of the APOs; Making recommendations to the Regional Manager on the adoption of the SP and annual APOs; Reviewing the quarterly and annual performance against the APO (and SP); and Providing inputs into ad hoc and emergency reserve decision-making not adequately addressedin the SP/APO.The Regional Manager and Senior Manager (SONR) are the officials responsible for submitting the SP tothe Head of Department (HOD, Economic Development, Environment and Tourism) for formal approvaland adoption. The HOD will then submit the approved SP to the Limpopo MEC for EconomicDevelopment, Environment and Tourism as per the requirements of NEMPAA. This can be summarizedas follows:LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 52

RESERVEMANAGEMENTPLANCOMPONENTSP / APO Reserve Manager WonderkopNature ReserveManagementSP / APORESPONSIBILITY SUBMIT TO OUTCOME SOUGHT FREQUENCYRegionalManagerCommitteeSenior Manager(SONR)Approval of finaldraft.Approval of finalversion of SP andAPO.DepartmentalSPSenior Manager HOD (LEDET)(SONR)adoption of SP.SP HOD (LEDET) MEC (LEDET) Formal approvaland adoption as perlegal requirements.SP (at 5-yearintervals);APO (annually)SP (5-yearly);APO (annually)SP (5-yearly)SP (5-yearly)LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 53

6 BIBLIOGRAPHYThe following references were extensively consulted during the drafting of this document:Bass Air Aviation. 2010. Game Count: Wonderkop Nature Reserve – 2010. Unpublished report.Cowan, G.I. & Mpongoma, N. 2011. Guidelines for the development of a management plan for aprotected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003.Unpublished document.Envirodel. 2004. Wonderkop Nature Reserve Ecological Management Plan. Unpublished report.IUCN. 2012. [online] Available at: [Accessed July 2012].LEDET. 2012. Guidelines for the development of Management Plans for Limpopo’s Provincial NatureReserves. Unpublished planning guideline.Limpopo Department of Agriculture. 2012. [online] Available at: [AccessedJune 2012].Mogalakwena Local Municipality. 2012. Draft IDP: 2012 - 2016. Draft Local Municipal IntegratedDevelopment Plan: First Draft.Mucina, L. & Rutherford, M.C. (eds.). 2006. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.Nel, E.J. & Kruger, J.W. 2012. Scientific Review: State Owned Nature Reserves – Limpopo. Unpublishedreport.Waterberg District Municipality. 2011. IDP: 2011/2012. District Municipal Integrated DevelopmentPlan.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 54

ANNEXURE 1: ZONATION CATEGORIES (CHARACTERISTICS)The main characteristics of each use zone are summarized in the tables below:ZONE ZONE OBJECTIVE CHARACTERISTICSNaturalUsers:− To provide easy accessto experience thereserve’s naturallandscapes, habitats,species and heritageresources.Conservation:− To minimise andmitigate the effects ofvisitor use on thereserve’s naturalhabitats and speciesand its cultural sites.- Areas of extensive andaccessible naturalhabitats and species.- Areas with importantheritage sites andfeatures.- Areas whose primaryhabitats, species andcultural sites areresilient to the impactsof regular visitor use.- Areas with popular viewsites or natural andcultural attractions.- Areas with an extensiveand accessible road, trailand track network.- Areas that require activeconservationmanagementinterventions.- Areas with moderatelevels of visibilityobtrusiveness.VISITORACTIVITIES- Game viewing.- Motorised 2x4 selfdriveaccess ondesignated routes.- Permitted motorised4x4 trails ondesignated routes.- Day hiking trailsand/or short trails.- Bird hides, canoeing,mountain biking androck-climbing,where appropriate.- Other recreationalactivities that maybe consideredappropriate byreservemanagement.- No accommodationor camping.−−−−−−−FACILITIES /INFRASTRUCTURESelf-drive roads and 4x4tracks. Roads may besurfaced where visitor uselevels are high.Management accessroads and managementtracks.Perimeter firebreaks.Small picnic areas andablution facilities may beprovided.Parking or viewing sites/areas may be provided.No accommodation orcamping.Signage may be erectedto designate routes(including 4x4, horse,MTB, canoe, 2x4 selfdrive,etc.), closed areasor junctions.VISITOR ACCESS- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Vehicle access ondedicated routes,with pedestrianaccess from parkingareas or adjacentdevelopment zones.- On water, only nonmotorisedcraftsallowed, unlessotherwise agreed.MANAGEMENTGUIDELINESVisitor andconservationmanagement:- Intensivemaintenance ofvisitor facilitiesandinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.− Intensiveconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.Consumptive Use:− Sustainable useof naturalresources may,where feasible,be considered onapplication, andsubject to aformal permittingarrangement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 55

Development – Low IntensityUsers:− To provide small tomedium-sized picnic,accommodationand/or campingfacilities and services.− To facilitate access toenvironmentaleducational facilitiesand services.Conservation:− To contain the impactsand footprint ofreserve visitorfacilities, services andinfrastructure.−−−−−−−−−−Areas with acontained, low-densitydevelopmentfootprint.Areas with roads, trailsand small to mediumscalerecreationalfacilities andaccommodationinfrastructure.Degraded ortransformed areas.Natural or seminaturalhabitats.Areas with a highvisitor absorptivecapacity.Areas with limitedbiodiversitysignificance.Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.Areas where risk offire damage toinfrastructure is low,or can be mitigated.Areas with lowvisibility from thesurroundinglandscape.Areas that have accessto potable water, andnot sensitive todisposal of treatedwastewater.−−−−−Picnic and braaiing.Parking.Overnightaccommodation.Camping/caravanning.Environmentaleducation.- Reception offices.- Small camping/caravanning facilities.- Small lodges/ tentedcamps/ self-catering units.- Small restaurant orcatering facilities forovernight guests only.- Surfaced roads andparking areas.- Bird hides.- Services (power, wastemanagement, water,etc.).- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Motorised self-drivecar access.- Tour bus access.- Parking and walk-infor day and overnightvisitors.- Intensivedevelopment andmaintenance ofvisitor facilities,services andinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.- Limitedconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.− Risk management(e.g. fire safety)measuresimplemented.− Developmentfootprint activelycontained.Consumptive Use:− Sustainable useof naturalresources may,where feasible,be considered onapplication, andsubject to aformal permittingarrangement.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 56

Development – High IntensityUsers:− To provide mediumsized to large scaleaccommodationfacilities, andassociated attractionsand conveniences.Conservation:− To contain the impactsand footprint ofreserve visitorfacilities, services andinfrastructure.−−−−−−−−−−Areas with an extensivehigh-densitydevelopment footprint.Areas with roads, trailsand small to mediumscalerecreationalfacilities andaccommodationinfrastructure.Degraded ortransformed areas.Natural or semi-naturalhabitats.Areas with a high visitorabsorptive capacity.Areas with limitedbiodiversity significance.Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.Areas where risk of firedamage toinfrastructure is low, orcan be mitigated.Areas with low visibilityfrom the surroundinglandscape.Areas that have accessto potable water, andnot sensitive to disposalof treated wastewater.- Picnicking andbraaiing.- Overnightaccommodation.- Camping/caravanning.- Meetings, workshopor mini conferenceactivities.- Parking.- Swimming.- Medium-sized lodges orhotels.- High density self-cateringunits.- Medium to large-scalecamping/ caravanningfacilities.- Fuel supply pump.- Amenities, includingrestaurants and shops.- Surfaced roads.- Services (power, wastemanagement, water, etc.).- Swimming pool.- Air strip.- Cater for all reservevisitors.- Motorised self-drivecar access.- Tour bus access.- Parking and walk-infor day and overnightvisitors.- Air access may bepermitted.Visitor andconservationmanagement:- Intensivedevelopment andmaintenance ofvisitor facilities,services andinfrastructure.- Activeenforcement ofreserveregulations.- Limitedconservationmanagementactivitiesundertaken.− Risk management(e.g. fire safety)measures−implemented.Developmentfootprint activelycontained.Consumptive Use:- None.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 57

Development - Reserve AdministrationTo define the location ofthe infrastructure andfacilities for reserveadministration.- Areas with extensivedegraded or transformedfootprints.- Areas able toaccommodate highdisturbance, with noidentified sensitivebiodiversity.- Areas proximate to highand low intensitydevelopment zones.- Areas with low visibilityfrom the surroundinglandscape.- Areas that are easilyaccessible from thereserve entry points.- Areas that have access topotable water, and notsensitive to disposal oftreated wastewater.n/a − Administrative offices.− Storage facilities.− Garage facilities.− Workshops.− Game capture andholding facilities.− Parking.NOTE:Reserve administrative officesmay also be located within theDevelopment - Low/HighIntensity Zones.Access to reservereception andadministrative offices.n/aLEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 58

Special Protection / Special ManagementSpecial Protection (Species, Habitats,Heritage)Special Management (ResourceUtilisation)−−−Protection ofspecies,habitats orheritage sitesof specialconservationconcern.Restrictaccess topreventdisturbanceand/ordamage.Regulationand control ofresourceutilisation(commercialand/orcommunitybased),includinghunting.- Sites or areas whereuncontrolled publicaccess is undesirable dueto the presence ofthreatened species andhabitats or sensitiveheritage features.- Demarcated sites orareas where seasonalutilisation of naturalresources (e.g.harvesting of grass forthatching, collection ofreeds for buildingmaterial, hunting ofwildlife for trophies ormeat, etc.) takes place.- Research.- Guided nature/heritage visits understrictly controlledconditions.- Motorised access ondesignated routes(primarily gravelroads).- Walking access ondesignated footpathsand trails.- Commercial hunting,under strict permitconditions.Usually none, but footpathsand tracks to allowmanagement access may bepermitted.Where visitor access ispermitted, strict accesscontrol is required to delimitaccess routes, and, ifnecessary, screen visitors; i.e.hides, boardwalks, screenedroutes, and paths with railingsmay be appropriate.Self-drive roads, 4x4 tracks,management access roadsand management tracks.Parking or viewing sites/ areasmay be provided.Basic accommodation orcamping facilities may beprovided.Signage may be erected todesignate seasonally closedareas.Public / tourism accessnormally not allowed.May be permitted undervery tightly controlledconditions, to bedetermined per site.Public / tourism accesswill only be regulatedduring the resourceutilisation season.For hunting areas, thezone will be closed for allother visitors.For other resourceutilisation zones,public/tourism accessmay be permitted,although the specificaccess conditions willvary from site to site.Visitor andconservationmanagement:− Restrictions onaccess andnumbers ofvisitors may beenforced.− Activeconservationand heritagemanagementactivitiesundertaken, asrequired.Consumptive Use:- None.Visitor andconservationmanagement:−−Seasonalrestrictions onaccess may beenforced.Activemanagement ofresourceutilisationpermits.Consumptive Use:- Naturalresourceharvesting andcollection.LEDET Reserve Management Documents: Wonderkop Nature Reserve (Strategic Plan) 59