Contract No. HY/2011/03

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road

Section between Scenic Hill and Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monthly EM&A Report No.12 (September 2013)

 

16 October 2013

 

Revision 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Main Contractor                                                                                                                     Designer

 

 


 

 


Contents

Executive Summary

1....... Introduction.. 1

1.1                          Basic Project Information. 1

1.2                          Project Organisation. 2

1.3                          Construction Programme. 2

1.4                          Construction Works Undertaken During the Reporting Month. 2

2....... Air Quality Monitoring.. 3

2.1                          Monitoring Requirements. 3

2.2                          Monitoring Equipment 4

2.3                          Monitoring Locations. 4

2.4                          Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration. 4

2.5                          Monitoring Methodology. 4

2.6                          Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month. 6

2.7                          Monitoring Results. 6

3....... Noise Monitoring.. 8

3.1                          Monitoring Requirements. 8

3.2                          Monitoring Equipment 8

3.3                          Monitoring Locations. 8

3.4                          Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration. 8

3.5                          Monitoring Methodology. 9

3.6                          Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month. 9

3.7                          Monitoring Results. 10

4....... Water Quality Monitoring.. 11

4.1                          Monitoring Requirements. 11

4.2                          Monitoring Equipment 12

4.3                          Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration. 12

4.4                          Monitoring Locations. 12

4.5                          Monitoring Methodology. 13

4.6                          Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month. 14

4.7                          Monitoring Results. 14

5....... Dolphin Monitoring.. 16

5.1                          Monitoring Requirements. 16

5.2                          Monitoring Methodology. 16

5.3                          Monitoring Results. 18

5.4                          Reference. 20

6....... Mudflat Monitoring.. 21

6.1                          Sedimentation Rate Monitoring. 21

6.2                          Water Quality Monitoring. 22

6.3                          Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Methodology. 23

6.4                          Event and Action Plan for Mudflat Monitoring. 24

6.5                          Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Results and Conclusion. 25

6.6                          Reference. 29

7....... ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT.. 30

7.1                          Site Inspection. 30

7.2                          Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status. 31

7.3                          Environmental Licenses and Permits. 31

7.4                          Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures. 31

7.5                          Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit 32

7.6                          Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecution. 32

8....... FUTURE KEY ISSUES.. 33

8.1                          Construction Programme for the Coming Months. 33

8.2                          Environmental Monitoring Scheme for the Coming Month. 33

9....... CONCLUSION.. 34

9.1                          Conclusions. 34

 

Figures

 

Figure 1.1        Location of the Site

Figure 2.1         Environmental Monitoring Stations

Figure 6.1         Mudflat Survey Area

 

                           

Appendices

 

Appendix A       Environmental Management Structure

Appendix B       Construction Programme

Appendix C       Calibration Certificates

Appendix D       Monitoring Schedule

Appendix E       Monitoring Data and Graphical Plots

Appendix F       Event and Action Plan

Appendix G      Wind Data

Appendix H       Dolphin Monitoring Results

Appendix I         Mudflat Monitoring Results

Appendix J        Waste Flow Table

Appendix K       Cumulative Statistics on Complaints

Appendix L       Environmental Licenses and Permits  

Appendix M      Implementation Schedule of Environmental Mitigation Measures  

Appendix N       Record of ¡§Notification of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances¡¨

Appendix O      Location of Works Areas

 

 


Executive Summary

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR) serves to connect the HZMB Main Bridge at the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Boundary and the HZMB Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF) located at the north eastern waters of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The HKLR project has been separated into two contracts. They are Contract No. HY/2011/03 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between Scenic Hill and Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (hereafter referred to as the Contract) and Contract No. HY/2011/09 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between HKSAR Boundary and Scenic Hill.

China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd. was awarded by Highways Department as the Contractor to undertake the construction works of Contract No. HY/2011/03.  The main works of the Contract include land tunnel at Scenic Hill, tunnel underneath Airport Road and Airport Express Line, reclamation and tunnel to the east coast of the Airport Island, at-grade road connecting to the HKBCF and highway works of the HKBCF within the Airport Island and in the vicinity of the HKLR reclamation.  The Contract is part of the HKLR Project and HKBCF Project, these projects are considered to be ¡§Designated Projects¡¨, under Schedule 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Ordinance (Cap 499) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Reports (Register No. AEIAR-144/2009 and AEIAR-145/2009) were prepared for the Project.  The current Environmental Permit (EP) EP-352/2009/C for HKLR and EP-353/2009/G for HKBCF were issued on 5 September 2013 and 6 August 2013, respectively. These documents are available through the EIA Ordinance Register. The construction phase of Contract was commenced on 17 October 2012.

BMT Asia Pacific Limited has been appointed by the Contractor to implement the Environmental Monitoring & Audit (EM&A) programme for the Contract in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0) and will be providing environmental team services to the Contract.

This is the Twelfth Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summaries the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 September to 30 September 2013.

Environmental Monitoring and Audit Progress

The monthly EM&A programme was undertaken in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0).  A summary of the monitoring activities in this reporting month is listed below:

1-hr TSP Monitoring                                   4, 10, 16, 19 and 25 September 2013

24-hr TSP monitoring

-       AMS5                         3, 9, 13,18, 24 and 30 September 2013

-       AMS6                                    13, 18, 24 and 30 September 2013

Noise Monitoring                                       6, 11, 16 and 25 September 2013

Water Quality Monitoring                    2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 25, 27 and 30 September 2013

Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring             3, 5, 10 and 18 September 2013

Mudflat Monitoring (Ecology)                     1, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 21 September 2013

Mudflat Monitoring (Sedimentation rate)     4 September 2013

Site Inspection                                          3, 10, 18 and 27 September 2013

Due to interruption of electricity supply, the 24 hours dust monitoring was cancelled on 3 September 2013 at station AMS6. Due to malfunction of high volume sampler, the 24 hours dust monitoring was cancelled on 9 September 2013 at station AMS6.

The noise monitoring was cancelled on 4 September 2013 at NMS5 due to the bad weather condition and was rescheduled on 6 September 2013.

Due to adverse weather condition, the water quality monitoring at all stations were cancelled on 23 September 2013 during mid-ebb tide and mid-flood tide.

The 2nd Dolphin Monitoring on 17 September 2013 was postponed to 18 September 2013 due to the increased wind condition.

 

Breaches of Action and Limit Levels

A summary of environmental exceedances for this reporting month is as follows:

Environmental Monitoring

Parameters

Action Level (AL)

Limit Level (LL)

Air Quality

1-hr TSP

0

0

24-hr TSP

0

0

Noise

Leq (30 min)

0

0

Water Quality

Suspended solids level (SS)

3

0

Turbidity level

0

0

Dissolved oxygen level (DO)

0

0

 

Three Action Level exceedances of suspended solid level were recorded on 6, 16 and 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities including geotextile laying activity at Zone 1 and filling activities at Zone 3A and Zone 2 on 6 September 2013; geotextile laying activity and filling works at Zone 1, stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and stone column installation at Zone 3A on 16 September 2013; stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and filling works at Zone 3B on 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities were carried within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA Report. There were no specific activities recorded during the monitoring period that would cause any significant impacts on monitoring results. Therefore, all exceedances were considered as non-contract related.

All investigation reports for exceedances of the Contract have been submitted to ENPO/IEC for comments and/or follow up to identify whether the exceedances occurred related to other HZMB contracts.

Complaint Log

A summary of environmental complaints for this reporting month is as follows:

Environmental Complaint No.

Date of Complaint Received

Description of Environmental Complaints

COM-2013-033

13 September 2013

Noise

COM-2013-034

17 September 2013

Noise

Notifications of Summons and Prosecutions

There were no notifications of summons or prosecutions received during this reporting month.

Reporting Changes

This report has been developed in compliance with the reporting requirements for the subsequent EM&A reports as required by the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0). 

The proposal for the change of Action Level and Limit Level for suspended solid and turbidity was approved by EPD on 25 March 2013.

The revised Event and Action Plan for dolphin Monitoring approved by EPD on 6 May 2013.

The original monitoring station at IS(Mf)9 (Coordinate- East:813273, North 818850) was observed inside the perimeter silt curtain on 1 July 2013, as such the original impact water quality monitoring location at IS(Mf)9 was temporarily shifted outside the silt curtain. The new co-ordinates of station IS(Mf)9 are 813226E and 818708N since 1 July 2013.

Future Key Issues

The future key issues include potential noise, air quality, water quality and ecological impacts and waste management arising from the following construction activities to be undertaken in the upcoming month:

¡P             Removal of Existing Rock for Existing Seawall at Portion X;

¡P             Stone Column Installation at Portion X;

¡P             Filling works behind Stone Platform at Portion X;

¡P             Band Drains Installation at Portion X;

¡P             Temporary Stone Platform Construction at Portion X;

¡P             Site Formation at West Portal;

¡P             Tree Felling at West Portal;

¡P             Slope Protection / Stabilization (Soil Nailing Works) at West Portal;

¡P             Works for Diversion of Airport Road and Kwo Lo Wan Road at Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road;

¡P             Pre-grouting and Pipe Piling Works for AEL Access Shafts at Airport Express Line;

¡P             Utilities Detection at Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line;

¡P             Establishment of Site Access at Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line;

¡P             Pipe piling works for east access shaft at Kwo Lo Wan Road;

¡P             Access Shaft Construction for Tunnel at Portion Y;

¡P             Utility Culvert Excavation at Portion Y;

¡P             Pipe roofing installation and excavation for Tunnel SHT at West Portal; and

¡P             Excavation for temporary diversion of outfall at PR 10.

 


1.1.1       The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR) serves to connect the HZMB Main Bridge at the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Boundary and the HZMB Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF) located at the north eastern waters of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

1.1.2       The HKLR project has been separated into two contracts.  They are Contract No. HY/2011/03 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between Scenic Hill and Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (hereafter referred to as the Contract) and Contract No. HY/2011/09 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road-Section between HKSAR Boundary and Scenic Hill.

1.1.3       China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd. was awarded by Highways Department (HyD) as the Contractor to undertake the construction works of Contract No. HY/2011/03.  The Contract is part of the HKLR Project and HKBCF Project, these projects are considered to be ¡§Designated Projects¡¨, under Schedule 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Ordinance (Cap 499) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Reports (Register No. AEIAR-144/2009 and AEIAR-145/2009) were prepared for the Project.  The current Environmental Permit (EP) EP-352/2009/C for HKLR and EP-353/2009/G for HKBCF were issued on 5 September 2013 and 6 August 2013, respectively. These documents are available through the EIA Ordinance Register. The construction phase of Contract was commenced on 17 October 2012.  Figure 1.1 shows the project site boundary. The works areas are shown in Appendix O.

1.1.4       The Contract includes the following key aspects:

¡P                     New reclamation along the east coast of the approximately 23 hectares.

¡P                     Tunnel of Scenic Hill (Tunnel SHT) from Scenic Hill to the new reclamation, of approximately 1km in length with three (3) lanes for the east bound carriageway heading to the HKBCF and four (4) lanes for the westbound carriageway heading to the HZMB Main Bridge.

¡P                     An abutment of the viaduct portion of the HKLR at the west portal of Tunnel SHT and associated road works at the west portal of Tunnel SHT.

¡P                     An at grade road on the new reclamation along the east coast of the HKIA to connect with the HKBCF, of approximately 1.6 km along dual 3-lane carriageway with hard shoulder for each bound.

¡P                     Road links between the HKBCF and the HKIA including new roads and the modification of existing roads at the HKIA, involving viaducts, at grade roads and a Tunnel HAT.

¡P                     A highway operation and maintenance area (HMA) located on the new reclamation, south of the Dragonair Headquarters Building, including the construction of buildings, connection roads and other associated facilities.

¡P                     Associated civil, structural, building, geotechnical, marine, environmental protection, landscaping, drainage and sewerage, tunnel and highway electrical and mechanical works, together with the installation of street lightings, traffic aids and sign gantries, water mains and fire hydrants, provision of facilities for installation of traffic control and surveillance system (TCSS), reprovisioning works of affected existing facilities, implementation of transplanting, compensatory planting and protection of existing trees, and implementation of an environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) program.

1.1.5       This is the Twelfth Monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) report for the Contract which summaries the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 30 September 2013.

1.1.6       BMT Asia Pacific Limited has been appointed by the Contractor to implement the EM&A programme for the Contract in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0) for HKLR and will be providing environmental team services to the Contract.  ENVIRON Hong Kong Ltd. was employed by HyD as the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) and Environmental Project Office (ENPO) for the Project.  The project organization with regard to the environmental works is as follows.

1.2.1       The project organization structure and lines of communication with respect to the on-site environmental management structure is shown in Appendix A.  The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table 1.1. 

Table 1.1          Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Fax

Supervising Officer¡¦s Representative
(Ove Arup & Partners
Hong Kong Limited)

(Chief Resident Engineer, CRE)

Robert Antony Evans

3968 0801

2109 1882

Environmental Project Office / Independent Environmental Checker
(Environ Hong Kong Limited)

Environmental Project Office Leader

Y. H. Hui

3465 2888

3465 2899

Independent Environmental Checker

Antony Wong

3465 2888

3465 2899

Contractor
(China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd)

Project Manager

S. Y. Tse

3968 7002

2109 2588

Environmental Officer

Federick Wong

3968 7117

2109 2588

Environmental Team
(BMT Asia Pacific)

Environmental Team Leader

Claudine Lee

2241 9847

2815 3377

24 hours complaint hotline

---

---

5699 5730

---

1.3                Construction Programme

1.3.1       A copy of the Contractor¡¦s construction programme is provided in Appendix B. 

1.4                Construction Works Undertaken During the Reporting Month

1.4.1       A summary of the construction activities undertaken during this reporting month is shown in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2          Construction Activities During Reporting Month

Description of Activities

Site Area

Removal of existing rock for existing seawall

Portion X

Stone column installation

Portion X

Sand filling behind stone platform in according to EP requirement

Portion X

Temporary stone platform construction

Portion X

Band drains Installation

Portion X

Site formation

West Portal

Tree felling

West Portal

Slope protection/ stabilization (soil nailing works)

West Portal

Boulder removal/ stabilization works

West Portal

Works for diversion of Airport Road and Kwo Lo Wan Road

Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road

Pre-grouting and pipe piling works for AEL access shafts

Airport Express Line

Utilities detection

Kwo Lo Wan/ Airport Road/ Airport Express Line

Establishment of site access

Kwo Lo Wan/ Airport Road/ Airport Express Line

Works for east access shaft

Kwo Lo Wan/ Airport Road/ Airport Express Line

Access shaft construction for SHT & HAT

Portion Y

Utility culvert excavation

Portion Y

 

2        Air Quality Monitoring

2.1                Monitoring Requirements

2.1.1       In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, baseline 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at two air quality monitoring stations were established.  Impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least three times every 6 days, while impact 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out for at least once every 6 days. The Action and Limit Level for 1-hr TSP and 24-hr TSP are provided in Table 2.1 and Table 2.2, respectively.

Table 2.1          Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Monitoring Station

Action Level, µg/m3

Limit Level, µg/m3

AMS 5 ¡V Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)

352

500

AMS 6 ¡V Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)

360

 

Table 2.2         Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Monitoring Station

Action Level, µg/m3

Limit Level, µg/m3

AMS 5 ¡V Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)

164

260

AMS 6 ¡V Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)

173

260


 

2.2.1       24-hour TSP air quality monitoring was performed using High Volume Sampler (HVS) located at each designated monitoring station. The HVS meets all the requirements of the Contract Specific EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring.  Brand and model of the equipment is given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3          Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Brand and Model

Portable direct reading dust meter (1-hour TSP)

Sibata Digital Dust Monitor (Model No. LD-3B)

High Volume Sampler
(24-hour TSP)

Tisch Environmental Mass Flow Controlled Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) High Volume Air Sampler (Model No. TE-5170)

2.3.1       Monitoring locations AMS5 and AMS6 were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

2.3.2       Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 2.4 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

Table 2.4          Locations of Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Location

AMS5

Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)

AMS6

Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)

2.4.1       Table 2.5 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact TSP monitoring.

Table 2.5          Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

1-hour TSP

Three times every 6 days while the highest dust impact was expected

24-hour TSP

Once every 6 days

 

2.5.1       24-hour TSP Monitoring

(a)           The HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receivers. The following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.

(i)         A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.

(ii)         The distance between the HVS and any obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS.

(iii)        A minimum of 2 meters separation from walls, parapets and penthouse for rooftop sampler.

(iv)        No furnace or incinerator flues nearby.

(v)        Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.

(vi)        Permission was obtained to set up the samplers and access to the monitoring stations.

(vii)       A secured supply of electricity was obtained to operate the samplers.

(viii)      The sampler was located more than 20 meters from any dripline.

(ix)        Any wire fence and gate, required to protect the sampler, did not obstruct the monitoring process.

(x)        Flow control accuracy was kept within ¡Ó2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period.

(b)          Preparation of Filter Papers

(i)         Glass fibre filters, G810 were labelled and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.

(ii)        All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing. The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 ¢XC and not variable by more than ¡Ó3 ¢XC; the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ¡Ó5%.  A convenient working RH was 40%.

(iii)       All filter papers were prepared and analysed by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd., which is a HOKLAS accredited laboratory and has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

(c)          Field Monitoring

(i)         The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS works properly.

(ii)         The filter holder and the area surrounding the filter were cleaned.

(iii)        The filter holder was removed by loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen was aligned carefully.

(iv)        The filter was properly aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.

(v)        The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter holder down to the frame.  The pressure applied was sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.

(vi)        Then the shelter lid was closed and was secured with the aluminum strip.

(vii)       The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.

(viii)      A new flow rate record sheet was set into the flow recorder.

(ix)       On site temperature and atmospheric pressure readings were taken and the flow rate of the HVS was checked and adjusted at around 1.1 m3/min, and complied with the range specified in the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0) (i.e. 0.6-1.7 m3/min).

(x)        The programmable digital timer was set for a sampling period of 24 hours, and the starting time, weather condition and the filter number were recorded.

(xi)        The initial elapsed time was recorded.

(xii)       At the end of sampling, on site temperature and atmospheric pressure readings were taken and the final flow rate of the HVS was checked and recorded.

(xiii)      The final elapsed time was recorded.

(xiv)     The sampled filter was removed carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with collected particulate matter were in contact.

(xv)      It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope and sealed.

(xvi)      All monitoring information was recorded on a standard data sheet.

(xvii)     Filters were then sent to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. for analysis.

(d)          Maintenance and Calibration

(i)         The HVS and its accessories were maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.

(ii)         5-point calibration of the HVS was conducted using TE-5025A Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of baseline monitoring. Bi-monthly 5-point calibration of the HVS will be carried out during impact monitoring.

(iii)        Calibration certificate of the HVSs are provided in Appendix C.

2.5.2       1-hour TSP Monitoring

(a)           Measuring Procedures

The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter were in accordance with the Manufacturer¡¦s Instruction Manual as follows:-

(i)         Turn the power on.

(ii)        Close the air collecting opening cover.

(iii)       Push the ¡§TIME SETTING¡¨ switch to [BG].

(iv)       Push ¡§START/STOP¡¨ switch to perform background measurement for 6 seconds.

(v)        Turn the knob at SENSI ADJ position to insert the light scattering plate.

(vi)       Leave the equipment for 1 minute upon ¡§SPAN CHECK¡¨ is indicated in the display.

(vii)      Push ¡§START/STOP¡¨ switch to perform automatic sensitivity adjustment. This measurement takes 1 minute.

(viii)      Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE position.

(ix)       Push the ¡§TIME SETTING¡¨ switch the time set in the display to 3 hours.

(x)        Lower down the air collection opening cover.

(xi)       Push ¡§START/STOP¡¨ switch to start measurement.

(b)           Maintenance and Calibration

(i)         The 1-hour TSP meter was calibrated at 1-year intervals against a Tisch Environmental Mass Flow Controlled Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) High Volume Air Sampler. Calibration certificates of the Laser Dust Monitors are provided in Appendix C.

2.6.1       The schedule for air quality monitoring in September 2013 is provided in Appendix D. Due to interruption of electricity supply, the 24 hours dust monitoring was cancelled on 3 September 2013 at station AMS6. Due to malfunction of high volume sampler, the 24 hours dust monitoring was cancelled on 9 September 2013 at station AMS6.

2.7                Monitoring Results

2.7.1       The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP are summarized in Tables 2.6 and 2.7 respectively. Detailed impact air quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are presented in Appendix E.

 

Table 2.6         Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station

Average (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

AMS5

25

16 ¡V 44

352

500

AMS6

31

14 ¡V 47

360

500

 

Table 2.7         Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station

Average (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level  (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

AMS5

37

15-64

164

260

AMS6

74

45-125

173

260

 

2.7.2       No Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at all monitoring stations during this reporting month.

2.7.3       The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

2.7.4       There were technical problems of the on-site weather station on 2, 3, 12, 13, 14 September 2013. As the wind data could not be monitored, the wind data for this period were reference to the wind data of Hong Kong Observatory¡¦s Chek Lap Kok weather station. The wind data obtained from the on-site weather station and from Hong Kong Observatory¡¦s Chek Lap Kok weather station during the reporting month is shown in Appendix G.


 

3.1.1       In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, impact noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring is provided in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1          Action and Limit Levels for Noise during Construction Period

Monitoring Station

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

NMS5 - Ma Wan Chung Village (Ma Wan Chung Resident Association) (Tung Chung)

0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received

75 dB(A)

3.2                Monitoring Equipment

3.2.1       Noise monitoring was performed using sound level meters at each designated monitoring station.  The sound level meters deployed comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications (IEC) 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications.  Acoustic calibrator was deployed to check the sound level meters at a known sound pressure level.  Brand and model of the equipment are given in Table 3.2.

Table 3.2         Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Brand and Model

Integrated Sound Level Meter

B&K 2238

Acoustic Calibrator

B&K 4231

3.3                Monitoring Locations

3.3.1       Monitoring location NMS5 was set up at the proposed locations in accordance with Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

3.3.2       Figure 2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 3.3 describes the details of the monitoring stations.

Table 3.3          Locations of Impact Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Location

NMS5

Ma Wan Chung Village (Ma Wan Chung Resident Association) (Tung Chung)

3.4.1       Table 3.4 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact noise monitoring.


 

Table 3.4         Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

30-mins measurement at each monitoring station between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays (Monday to Saturday). Leq, L10 and L90 would be recorded.

At least once per week

 

3.5.1       Monitoring Procedure

(a)        The sound level meter was set on a tripod at a height of 1.2 m above the podium for free-field measurements at NMS5. A correction of +3 dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements.

(b)        The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter.

(c)        Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:-

(i)            frequency weighting: A

(ii)           time weighting: Fast

(iii)          time measurement: Leq(30-minutes) during non-restricted hours i.e. 07:00 ¡V 1900 on normal weekdays;

(e)        Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using the acoustic calibrator for 94.0 dB(A) at 1000 Hz.  If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1.0 dB(A), the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

(f)        During the monitoring period, the Leq, L10 and L90 were recorded.  In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.

(g)        Noise measurement was paused during periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if possible. Observations were recorded when intrusive noise was unavoidable.

(h)        Noise monitoring was cancelled in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10m/s. The wind speed shall be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.

3.5.2       Maintenance and Calibration

(a)          The microphone head of the sound level meter was cleaned with soft cloth at regular intervals.

(b)           The meter and calibrator were sent to the supplier or HOKLAS laboratory to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.

(c)        Calibration certificates of the sound level meters and acoustic calibrators are provided in Appendix C.

3.6.1       The schedule for construction noise monitoring in September 2013 is provided in Appendix D. The noise monitoring was cancelled on 4 September 2013 at NMS5 due to the bad weather condition and was rescheduled on 6 September 2013.


 

3.7                Monitoring Results

3.7.1       The monitoring results for construction noise are summarized in Table 3.5 and the monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

Table 3.5          Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results During the Reporting Month

Monitoring Station

Average Leq (30 mins), dB(A)

Range of Leq (30 mins), dB(A)

Limit Level Leq (30 mins), dB(A)

NMS5

60

58 ¡V 62

75

*A correction of +3dB(A) facade correction was included. 

3.7.2       There were no Action and Limit Level exceedances for noise during daytime on normal weekdays of the reporting month.

3.7.3       Major noise sources during the noise monitoring included construction activities of the Contract and nearby traffic noise.

3.7.4       The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

 


4        Water Quality Monitoring

4.1.1       Impact water quality monitoring was carried out to ensure that any deterioration of water quality was detected, and that timely action was taken to rectify the situation.  For impact water quality monitoring, measurements were taken in accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual. Table 4.1 shows the established Action/Limit Levels for the environmental monitoring works.  The ET proposed to amend the Acton Level and Limit Level for turbidity and suspended solid and EPD approved ET¡¦s proposal on 25 March 2013.  Therefore, Action Level and Limit Level for the Contract have been changed since 25 March 2013.

4.1.2       The original and revised Action Level and Limit Level for turbidity and suspended solid are shown in Table 4.1.

Table 4.1          Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameter (unit)

Water Depth

Action Level

Limit Level

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom)

Surface and Middle

5.0

4.2 except 5 for Fish Culture Zone

Bottom

4.7

3.6

Turbidity (NTU)

Depth average

27.5 or 120% of upstream control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the same day;

The action level has been amended to ¡§27.5 and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the same day¡¨ since 25 March 2013.

47.0 or 130% of turbidity at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day;

The limit level has been amended to ¡§47.0 and 130% of turbidity at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day¡¨ since 25 March 2013.

Suspended Solid (SS) (mg/L)

Depth average

23.5 or 120% of upstream control station¡¦s SS at the same tide of the same day;

The action level has been amended to ¡§23.5 and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s SS at the same tide of the same day¡¨ since 25 March 2013.

34.4 or 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day and 10mg/L for Water Services Department Seawater Intakes;

The limit level has been amended to ¡§34.4 and 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day and 10mg/L for Water Services Department Seawater Intakes¡¨ since 25 March 2013

Notes:

               (1)    Depth-averaged is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths.

               (2)    For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is lower that the limit.

               (3)    For SS & turbidity non-compliance of the water quality limits occur when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

               (4)    The change to the Action and limit Levels for Water Quality Monitoring for the EM&A works was approved by EPD on 25 March 2013.

4.2.1       Table 4.2 summarises the equipment used in the impact water quality monitoring programme.

Table 4.2          Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment      

Brand and Model

DO and Temperature Meter, Salinity Meter, Turbidimeter and pH Meter

YSI Model 6820 V2-M, 650

Positioning Equipment

DGPS ¡V KODEN : KGP913MkII, KBG3

Water Depth Detector

Layin Associates: SM-5 & SM5A

Water Sampler

Wildlife Supply Company : 5487-10

4.3.1       Table 4.3 summarises the monitoring parameters, frequency and monitoring depths of impact water quality monitoring as required in the Contract Specific EM&A Manual.

Table 4.3          Impact Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Monitoring Stations

Parameter, unit

Frequency

No. of depth

Impact Stations:
IS5, IS(Mf)6, IS
7, IS8, IS(Mf)9 & IS10,

 

Control/Far Field Stations:
CS
2 & CS(Mf)5,

 

Sensitive Receiver Stations:
SR3, SR4, SR
5, SR10A & SR10B

¡P    Depth, m

¡P    Temperature, oC

¡P    Salinity, ppt

¡P    Dissolved Oxygen (DO), mg/L

¡P    DO Saturation, %

¡P    Turbidity, NTU

¡P    pH

¡P   Suspended Solids (SS), mg/L

Three times per week during mid-ebb and mid-flood tides (within ¡Ó 1.75 hour of the predicted time)

3

(1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed, except where the water depth is less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station may be omitted.  Should the water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored).

 

4.4.1       In accordance with the Contract Specific EM&A Manual, thirteen stations (6 Impact Stations, 5 Sensitive Receiver Stations and 2 Control Stations) were designated for impact water quality monitoring.  The six Impact Stations (IS) were chosen on the basis of their proximity to the reclamation and thus the greatest potential for water quality impacts, the five Sensitive Receiver Stations (SR) were chosen as they are close to the key sensitive receives and the two Control Stations (CS) were chosen to facilitate comparison of the water quality of the IS stations with less influence by the Project/ ambient water quality conditions.

4.4.2       The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in
Figure 2.
1.

Table 4.4         Impact Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Stations

Description

Coordinates

Easting

Northing

IS5

Impact Station (Close to HKLR construction site)

811579

817106

IS(Mf)6

Impact Station (Close to HKLR construction site)

812101

817873

IS7

Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)

812244

818777

IS8

Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)

814251

818412

IS(Mf)9

Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)

813273

818850

IS(Mf)9

Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)

813226

818708

IS10

Impact Station (Close to HKBCF construction site)

812577

820670

SR3

Sensitive receivers (San Tau SSSI)

810525

816456

SR4

Sensitive receivers (Tai Ho Inlet)

814760

817867

SR5

Sensitive receivers (Artificial Reef In NE Airport)

811489

820455

SR10A

Sensitive receivers (Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone)

823741

823495

SR10B

Sensitive receivers (Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone)

823686

823213

CS2

Control Station (Mid-Ebb)

805849

818780

CS(Mf)5

Control Station (Mid-Flood)

817990

821129

Remark:

The original monitoring station at IS(Mf)9 (Coordinate- East:813273, North 818850) was observed inside the perimeter silt curtain on 1 July 2013, as such the original impact water quality monitoring location at IS(Mf)9 was temporarily shifted outside the silt curtain. The new co-ordinates of station IS(Mf)9 are 813226E and 818708N since 1 July 2013.

4.5.1       Instrumentation

(a)        The in-situ water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, temperature, salinity and turbidity, pH were measured by multi-parameter meters.

4.5.2       Operating/Analytical Procedures

(a)        Digital Differential Global Positioning Systems (DGPS) were used to ensure that the correct location was selected prior to sample collection.

(b)        Portable, battery-operated echo sounders were used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station.

(c)        All in-situ measurements were taken at 3 water depths, 1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed, except where the water depth was less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station was omitted. Should the water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station was monitored.

(d)        At each measurement/sampling depth, two consecutive in-situ monitoring (DO concentration and saturation, temperature, turbidity, pH, salinity) and water sample for SS. The probes were retrieved out of the water after the first measurement and then re-deployed for the second measurement. Where the difference in the value between the first and second readings of DO or turbidity parameters was more than 25% of the value of the first reading, the reading was discarded and further readings were taken.

(e)        Duplicate samples from each independent sampling event were collected for SS measurement. Water samples were collected using the water samplers and the samples were stored in high-density polythene bottles. Water samples collected were well-mixed in the water sampler prior to pre-rinsing and transferring to sample bottles. Sample bottles were pre-rinsed with the same water samples. The sample bottles were then be packed in cool-boxes (cooled at 4oC without being frozen), and delivered to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. for the analysis of suspended solids concentrations. The laboratory determination work would be started within 24 hours after collection of the water samples. ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. is a HOKLAS accredited laboratory and has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

(f)        The analysis method and detection limit for SS is shown in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5    Laboratory Analysis for Suspended Solids

Parameters

Instrumentation

Analytical Method

Detection Limit

Suspended Solid (SS)

Weighting

APHA 2540-D

0.5mg/L

 

(g)        Other relevant data were recorded, including monitoring location / position, time, water depth, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena or work underway at the construction site in the field log sheet for information.

4.5.3       Maintenance and Calibrations

(a)        All in situ monitoring instruments would be calibrated by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd.  before use and at 3-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme. The procedures of performance check of sonde and testing results are provided in Appendix C.

4.6.1       The schedule for impact water quality monitoring in September 2013 is provided in Appendix D. Due to adverse weather condition, the water quality monitoring at all stations were cancelled on 23 September 2013 during mid-ebb tide and mid-flood tide.

4.7                Monitoring Results

4.7.1       Impact water quality monitoring was conducted at all designated monitoring stations during the reporting month. Impact water quality monitoring results and relevant graphical plots are provided in Appendix E.

4.7.2       Exceedances were recorded for dissolved oxygen level during the reporting month. Number of exceedances recorded during the reporting month at each impact station are summarised in Table 4.6.

Table 4.6          Summary of Water Quality Exceedances

Station

Exceedance Level

DO

(S&M)

DO

(Bottom)

Turbidity

SS

Total number of exceedances

Ebb

Flood

Ebb

Flood

Ebb

Flood

Ebb

Flood

Ebb

Flood

IS5

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

IS(Mf)6

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

16 Sep 2013

--

1

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

 --

--

0

0

IS7

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

IS8

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

IS(Mf)9

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

06 Sep 2013

0

1

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

IS10

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

SR3

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

SR4

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

18 Sep 2013

0

1

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

SR5

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

SR10A

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

SR10B

Action Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Limit Level

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

0

0

Total

Action

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

2

3**

Limit

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0**

 

Notes:

S: Surface;

M: Mid-depth;

**   The total exceedances

 

4.7.3       During the reporting month, three Action Level exceedances of suspended solid level were recorded on 6, 16, 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities including geotextile laying activity at Zone 1 and filling activities at Zone 3A and Zone 2 on 6 September 2013; geotextile laying activity and filling works at Zone 1, stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and stone column installation at Zone 3A on 16 September 2013; stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and filling works at Zone 3B on 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities were carried within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA Report. There were no specific activities recorded during the monitoring period that would cause any significant impacts on monitoring results. Therefore, all exceedances were considered as non-contract related.

4.7.4       Water quality impact sources during the water quality monitoring were the construction activities of the Contract, nearby construction activities by other parties and nearby operating vessels by other parties.

4.7.5       The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.


4.7.6        

5.1.1       Impact dolphin monitoring is required to be conducted by a qualified dolphin specialist team to evaluate whether there have been any effects on the dolphins.

5.1.2       The Action Level and Limit Level for dolphin monitoring are shown in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1          Action and Limit Levels for Dolphin Monitoring

 

North Lantau Social Cluster

NEL

NWL

Action Level

STG < 4.2  & ANI < 15.5

STG < 6.9 & ANI < 31.3

Limit Level

(STG < 2.4 & ANI < 8.9) and (STG < 3.9 & ANI < 17.9)

Remarks:

1.      STG means quarterly encounter rate of number of dolphin sightings.

2.      ANI means quarterly encounter rate of total number of dolphins.

3.      For North Lantau Social Cluster, AL will be trigger if either NEL or NWL fall below the criteria; LL will be triggered if both NEL and NWL fall below the criteria.

5.1.3       The revised Event and Action Plan for dolphin Monitoring was approved by EPD in 6 May 2013. The revised Event and Action Plan is annexed in Appendix F.

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.2.1       According to the requirements of the Updated EM&A Manual for HKLR (Version 1.0), dolphin monitoring programme should cover all transect lines in NEL and NWL survey areas (see Figure 1 of Appendix H) twice per month. The co-ordinates of all transect lines are shown in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2          Co-ordinates of Transect Lines

Line No.

Easting

Northing

 

Line No.

Easting

Northing

1

Start Point

804671

814577

 

13

Start Point

816506

819480

1

End Point

804671

831404

 

13

End Point

816506

824859

2

Start Point

805475

815457

 

14

Start Point

817537

820220

2

End Point

805477

826654

 

14

End Point

817537

824613

3

Start Point

806464

819435

 

15

Start Point

818568

820735

3

End Point

806464

822911

 

15

End Point

818568

824433

4

Start Point

807518

819771

 

16

Start Point

819532

821420

4

End Point

807518

829230

 

16

End Point

819532

824209

5

Start Point

808504

820220

 

17

Start Point

820451

822125

5

End Point

808504

828602

 

17

End Point

820451

823671

6

Start Point

809490

820466

 

18

Start Point

821504

822371

6

End Point

809490

825352

 

18

End Point

821504

823761

7

Start Point

810499

820690

 

19

Start Point

822513

823268

7

End Point

810499

824613

 

19

End Point

822513

824321

8

Start Point

811508

820847

 

20

Start Point

823477

823402

8

End Point

811508

824254

 

20

End Point

823477

824613

9

Start Point

812516

820892

 

21

Start Point

805476

827081

9

End Point

812516

824254

 

21

End Point

805476

830562

10

Start Point

813525

820872

 

22

Start Point

806464

824033

10

End Point

813525

824657

 

22

End Point

806464

829598

11

Start Point

814556

818449

 

23

Start Point

814559

821739

11

End Point

814556

820992

 

23

End Point

814559

824768

12

Start Point

815542

818807

 

 

 

 

 

12

End Point

815542

824882

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.2.2       The survey team used standard line-transect methods (Buckland et al. 2001) to conduct the systematic vessel surveys, and followed the same technique of data collection that has been adopted over the last 16 years of marine mammal monitoring surveys in Hong Kong developed by HKCRP (see Hung 2012).  For each monitoring vessel survey, a 15-m inboard vessel (Standard 31516) with an open upper deck (about 4.5 m above water surface) was used to make observations from the flying bridge area.

5.2.3       Two experienced observers (a data recorder and a primary observer) made up the on-effort survey team, and the survey vessel transited different transect lines at a constant speed of 13-15 km per hour.  The data recorder searched with unaided eyes and filled out the datasheets, while the primary observer searched for dolphins and porpoises continuously through 7 x 50 Steiner marine binoculars.  Both observers searched the sea ahead of the vessel, between 270o and 90o (in relation to the bow, which is defined as 0o).  One to two additional experienced observers were available on the boat to work in shift (i.e. rotate every 30 minutes) in order to minimize fatigue of the survey team members.  All observers were experienced in small cetacean survey techniques and identifying local cetacean species.

5.2.4       During on-effort survey periods, the survey team recorded effort data including time, position (latitude and longitude), weather conditions (Beaufort sea state and visibility), and distance travelled in each series (a continuous period of search effort) with the assistance of a handheld GPS (Garmin eTrex Legend).

5.2.5       Data including time, position and vessel speed were also automatically and continuously logged by handheld GPS throughout the entire survey for subsequent review.

5.2.6       When dolphins were sighted, the survey team would end the survey effort, and immediately record the initial sighting distance and angle of the dolphin group from the survey vessel, as well as the sighting time and position.  Then the research vessel was diverted from its course to approach the animals for species identification, group size estimation, assessment of group composition, and behavioural observations.  The perpendicular distance (PSD) of the dolphin group to the transect line was later calculated from the initial sighting distance and angle.

5.2.7       Survey effort being conducted along the parallel transect lines that were perpendicular to the coastlines (as indicated in Figure 1 of Appendix H) was labelled as ¡§primary survey effort, while the survey effort conducted along the connecting lines between parallel lines was labelled as ¡§secondary¡¨ survey effort.  According to HKCRP long-term dolphin monitoring data, encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins deduced from effort and sighting data collected along primary and secondary liens were similar in NEL and NWL survey areas.  Therefore, both primary and secondary survey effort were presented as on-effort survey effort in this report.

5.2.8       Encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins (number of on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort and number of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort) were calculated in NEL and NWL survey areas in relation to the amount of survey effort conducted during each month of monitoring survey.  Only data collected under Beaufort 3 or below condition would be used for encounter rate analysis.  Dolphin encounter rates were calculated using primary survey effort alone, as well as the combined survey effort from both primary and secondary lines.

Photo-identification Work

5.2.9       When a group of Chinese White Dolphins were sighted during the line-transect survey, the survey team would end effort and approach the group slowly from the side and behind to take photographs of them.  Every attempt was made to photograph every dolphin in the group, and even photograph both sides of the dolphins, since the colouration and markings on both sides may not be symmetrical.

5.2.10    Two professional digital cameras (Canon EOS 7D and 60D models), each equipped with long telephoto lenses (100-400 mm zoom), were available on board for researchers to take sharp, close-up photographs of dolphins as they surfaced.  The images were shot at the highest available resolution and stored on Compact Flash memory cards for downloading onto a computer.

5.2.11    All digital images taken in the field were first examined, and those containing potentially identifiable individuals were sorted out.  These photographs would then be examined in greater detail, and were carefully compared to the existing Chinese White Dolphin photo-identification catalogue maintained by HKCRP since 1995.

5.2.12    Chinese White Dolphins can be identified by their natural markings, such as nicks, cuts, scars and deformities on their dorsal fin and body, and their unique spotting patterns were also used as secondary identifying features (Jefferson 2000).

5.2.13    All photographs of each individual were then compiled and arranged in chronological order, with data including the date and location first identified (initial sighting), re-sightings, associated dolphins, distinctive features, and age classes entered into a computer database.  Detailed information on all identified individuals will be further presented as appendix in the quarterly EM&A report.

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.3.1       During the month of September 2013, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on the 3rd, 5th, 10th and 18th, to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice.  The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figure 2-5 of Appendix H.

5.3.2       From these surveys, a total of 300.25 km of survey effort was collected, with 93.6% of the total survey effort being conducted under favorable weather conditions (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with good visibility) (Annex I of Appendix H). Among the two areas, 115.00 km and 185.25 km of survey effort were collected from NEL and NWL survey areas respectively.  In addition, the total survey effort conducted on primary lines was 220.97 km, while the effort on secondary lines was 79.28 km.

5.3.3       During the two sets of monitoring surveys in September 2013, a total of 7 groups of 22 Chinese White Dolphins were sighted (Annex II of Appendix H). Only one sighting of two dolphins was made in NEL during the two sets of surveys in September.   All sightings were made during on-effort search in NWL and NEL.  Among these on-effort sightings, five of them were made on primary lines, while the other two were made on secondary lines.  Similar to previous months of dolphin monitoring surveys, none of the dolphin groups was associated with any operating fishing vessel.

 

5.3.4       Distribution of these dolphin sightings made in September 2013 is shown in Figure 6 of Appendix H. Dolphin groups were scattered near Black Point, Pillar Point, the northeast corner of Chek Lap Kok Airport, and south of Tai Mo To.  No dolphin was sighted within the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park, where most of the dolphin sightings were made in previous months of HKLR03 dolphin monitoring surveys.

5.3.5       Among the seven sightings, three of them were made in the proximity of the HKBCF construction site (Figure 6 of Appendix H).  Notably, two of these three sightings comprised of the same individuals (EL01 and NL191) on the same day, and the dolphin groups were observed to travel from the south of Tai Mo To to the northeast corner of the airport platform.  None of the sightings were made near the HKLR03 construction site or HKLR09 alignment (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.6       During September¡¦s surveys, encounter rates of Chinese white dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data made under favorable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) are shown in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4.

Table 5.3       Dolphin Encounter Rates Deduced from the Two Sets of Surveys (Two Surveys in Each Set) in September 2013 in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL)

 

Encounter rate (STG)

(no. of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km of survey effort)

Encounter rate (ANI)

(no. of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort)

Primary Lines Only

Primary Lines Only

NEL

Set 1: Sep 3rd/5th

0.0

0.0

Set 2: Sep 10th/18th

3.4

6.9

NWL

Set 1: Sep 3rd/5th

1.5

8.9

Set 2: Sep 10th/18th

4.2

12.6

 

Table 5.4         Overall Dolphin Encounter Rates (Sightings Per 100 km of Survey Effort) from All Four Surveys Conducted in September on Primary Lines only as well as Both Primary Lines and Secondary Lines in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL)

 

Encounter rate (STG)

(no. of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km of survey effort)

Encounter rate (ANI)

(no. of dolphins from all on-effort sightings per 100 km of survey effort)

Primary   Lines Only

Both Primary and Secondary Lines

Primary   Lines Only

Both Primary and Secondary Lines

Northeast Lantau

1.5

1.0

3.0

1.9

Northwest Lantau

2.9

3.4

10.8

11.3

 

5.3.7       The average group size of Chinese White Dolphins was 3.14 individuals per group, which was similar to the one in the previous month of dolphin monitoring.  Most dolphin groups were composed of only 1-3 animals, while two medium-sized groups with 5-6 dolphins were sighted in NWL.

Photo-identification Work

5.3.8       Thirteen individual dolphins were identified during September¡¦s surveys, and ten of them were only sighted once during the month (Annex III and IV of Appendix H).  On the other hand, EL01, NL191 and WL05 were sighted twice during the two sets of surveys in September 2013.  All except two identified individuals (EL01 and NL191) were sighted in NWL.

5.3.9       Two well-recognized females, NL188 and NL264, were accompanied with their calves during their re-sightings, and these mother-calf pairs were also regularly sighted in previous months of dolphin monitoring surveys.

 

Conclusion

5.3.10    During this month of dolphin monitoring, no adverse impact from the activities of this construction project on Chinese White Dolphins was noticeable from general observations.

5.3.11    Due to monthly variation in dolphin occurrence within the study area, it would be more appropriate to draw conclusion on whether any impacts on dolphins have been detected related to the construction activities of this project in the quarterly EM&A report, where comparison on distribution, group size and encounter rates of dolphins between the quarterly impact monitoring period (September ¡V November 2013) and baseline monitoring period (3-month period) will be made.

5.4                Reference

5.4.1       Buckland, S. T., Anderson, D. R., Burnham, K. P., Laake, J. L., Borchers, D. L., and Thomas, L.  2001.  Introduction to distance sampling: estimating abundance of biological populations.  Oxford University Press, London.

5.4.2       Hung, S. K.  2012.  Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report  (2011-12).  An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 171 pp.

5.4.3       Jefferson, T. A.  2000.  Population biology of the Indo-Pacific hump-backed dolphin in Hong Kong waters.  Wildlife Monographs 144:1-65.

5.4.4       Hung, S. K.  2013.  Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2012-13).  An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 168 pp.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Methodology

6.1.1       To avoid disturbance to the mudflat and nuisance to navigation, no fixed marker/monitoring rod was installed at the monitoring stations. A high precision Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) real time location fixing system (or equivalent technology) was used to locate the station in the precision of 1mm, which is reasonable under flat mudflat topography with uneven mudflat surface only at micro level.  This method has been used on Agricultural Fisheries and Conservation Department¡¦s (AFCD) project, namely Baseline Ecological Monitoring Programme for the Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site for measurement of seabed levels.

6.1.2       Measurements were taken directly on the mudflat surface.  The Real Time Kinematic GNSS (RTK GNSS) surveying technology was used to measure mudflat surface levels and 3D coordinates of a survey point.  The RTK GNSS survey was calibrated against a reference station in the field before and after each survey.  The reference station is a survey control point established by the Lands Department of the HKSAR Government or traditional land surveying methods using professional surveying instruments such as total station, level and/or geodetic GNSS.  The coordinates system was in HK1980 GRID system.  For this contract, the reference control station was surveyed and established by traditional land surveying methods using professional surveying instruments such as total station, level and RTK GNSS.  The accuracy was down to mm level so that the reference control station has relatively higher accuracy.  As the reference control station has higher accuracy, it was set as true evaluation relative to the RTK GNSS measurement.  All position and height correction were adjusted and corrected to the reference control station.  Reference station survey result and professional land surveying calibration is shown as Table 6.1:

Table 6.1          Reference Station Survey result and GNSS RTK calibration result of Round 1

Reference Station

Easting (m)

Northing (m)

Baseline reference elevation (mPD) (A)

Round 1 Survey (mPD) (B)

Calibration Adjustment (B-A)

T1

811248.660mE

816393.173mN

3.840

3.817

-0.023

T2

810806.297mE

815691.822mN

4.625

4.653

+0.028

T3

810778.098mE

815689.918mN

4.651

4.660

+0.009

T4

810274.783mE

816689.068mN

2.637

2.709

+0.072

 

6.1.3       The precision of the measured mudflat surface level reading (vertical precision setting) was within 10 mm (standard deviation) after averaging the valid survey records of the XYZ HK1980 GRID coordinates.  Each survey record at each station was computed by averaging at least three measurements that are within the above specified precision setting. Both digital data logging and written records were collected in the field.  Field data on station fixing and mudflat surface measurement were recorded.

Monitoring Locations

6.1.4       Four monitoring stations were established based on the site conditions for the sedimentation monitoring and are shown in Figure 6.1. 

Monitoring Results

6.1.5       The baseline sedimentation rate monitoring was in September 2012 and impact sedimentation rate monitoring was undertaken on 4 September 2013. The mudflat surface levels at the four established monitoring stations and the corresponding XYZ HK1980 GRID coordinates are presented in Table 6.2 and Table 6.3.

Table 6.2          Measured Mudflat Surface Level Results

Baseline Monitoring (September 2012)

Impact Monitoring(September 2013)

Monitoring Station

Easting (m)

Northing (m)

Surface Level

(mPD)

Easting (m)

Northing (m)

Surface Level

(mPD)

S1

810291.160

816678.727

0.950

810291.152

816678.733

1.022

S2

810958.272

815831.531

0.864

810958.277

815831.548

0.916

S3

810716.585

815953.308

1.341

810716.599

815953.297

1.393

S4

811221.433

816151.381

0.931

811221.405

816151.371

1.019

 

Table 6.3          Comparison of measurement  

Comparison of measurement

Remarks and Recommendation

Monitoring Station

Easting (m)

Northing (m)

Surface Level

(mPD)

S1

-0.008

0.006

0.072

Level continuously increased

S2

0.005

0.017

0.052

Within tolerance, no significant change

S3

0.014

-0.011

0.052

Within tolerance, no significant change

S4

-0.028

-0.010

0.088

Level continuously increased

 

6.1.6       This measurement result was generally and relatively higher than the baseline measurement at S1 and S4. The mudflat level is continuously increased. For S2 and S3 showed that the level has increased within tolerance and their sea bed depth would not be considered as significant change.

6.2.1       The mudflat monitoring covered water quality monitoring data.  Reference was made to the water quality monitoring data of the representative water quality monitoring station (i.e. SR3) as in the EM&A Manual.  The water quality monitoring location (SR3) is shown in Figure 2.1. 

6.2.2       Impact water quality monitoring in San Tau (monitoring station SR3) was conducted in September 2013.  The monitoring parameters included dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity and suspended solids (SS).

6.2.3       The Impact monitoring results for SR3 were extracted and summarised below:


 

Table 6.4          Impact Water Quality Monitoring Results (Depth Average)

Date

Mid Ebb Tide

Mid Flood Tide

DO (mg/L)

Turbidity (NTU)

SS (mg/L)

DO (mg/L)

Turbidity (NTU)

SS (mg/L)

02-Sep-13

7.2

4.5

2.4

8.8

9.6

11.1

04-Sep-13

5.3

9.0

10.9

5.5

9.0

9.4

06-Sep-13

6.5

8.4

7.1

6.4

11.1

10.6

09-Sep-13

5.7

7.5

6.7

5.6

8.3

8.3

11-Sep-13

6.8

4.1

4.5

6.4

4.3

4.8

13-Sep-13

5.7

4.3

3.7

6.6

10.3

3.4

16-Sep-13

6.8

4.2

5.2

8.6

12.1

18.0

18-Sep-13

6.7

8.5

5.2

6.8

10.5

9.9

20-Sep-13

6.2

8.5

7.9

5.9

12.8

12.0

23-Sep-13

-

-

-

-

-

-

25-Sep-13

6.5

9.4

10.1

6.5

9.5

9.8

27-Sep-13

6.2

5.7

5.7

7.1

5.1

7.1

30-Sep-13

6.5

3.8

2.9

6.8

4.7

6.7

Average

6.3

6.5

6.0

6.7

8.9

9.2

Due to adverse weather condition, the water quality monitoring at station SR3 was cancelled on 23 September 2013 during mid-ebb tide and mid-flood tide.

 

Sampling Zone

6.3.1       There are two survey areas specified under the updated EM&A Manual for the Contract, namely Tung Chung Bay and San Tau.  Tung Chung Bay survey area is divided into three sampling zones (TC1, TC2 and TC3) and there is one sampling zone at San Tau (ST).  Survey of horseshoe crabs, seagrass beds and intertidal communities were conducted in each sampling zone.  The locations of sampling zones are shown in Annex I of Appendix I. 

Horseshoe Crabs

6.3.2       An active search method was adopted for horseshoe crab survey at each sampling zone. The survey was undertaken by 2 specialists at each sampling zone.  During the search period, any accessible and potential area would be investigated for any horseshoe crab individuals within 2-3 hours in low tide period (tidal level below 1.2 m above Chart Datum (C.D.)).  Once a horseshoe crab was found, the species, size and inhabiting substrate, photographic record and respective GPS coordinate were recorded with reference to Li (2008). The horseshoe crab surveys were conducted on 15th (for zones TC3 and ST) and 21st (for zones TC1 and TC2) September 2013 with hot and cloudy weather.

Seagrass Beds

6.3.3       An active search method was adopted for seagrass bed survey at each sampling zone.  The survey was undertaken by 2 specialists each spending within 2-3 hours in low tide period.  Once seagrass bed was observed, the species, the estimated area (m2), photographic record and respective GPS coordinate were recorded.  The seagrass bed surveys were conducted on 15th (for zones TC3 and ST) and 21st (for zones TC1 and TC2) September 2013 with hot  and cloudy weather.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.3.4       The sandy shore of San Tau and Tung Chung Bay from the uppermost part of the shore and to the water edge was divided into three tidal zones ¡V upper, middle and lower zones, at each sampling zone, TC1, TC2, TC3 and ST.  A 100m transect was laid in each of the three tidal zones for fauna sampling.

6.3.5       At each sampling zone, three 100m horizontal transects were laid at 2.0m, 1.5m and 1.0m above C.D.  Along each transect, ten random quadrats (0.5 m x 0.5m) were placed.  In each quadrat, the epifauna and infauna (within the top 5cm sediment) in each quadrat were identified and their numbers/coverage percentages were recorded.  One core of 10cm diameter x 20cm depth was also collected within each quadrat.  The sediments of the cores were sieved with 2mm mesh-size sieve and the biota inside was identified and counted.  All collected fauna were released after recording except some tiny individuals that in-situ identification was not feasible. These tiny individuals were collected and were identified in the laboratory.  Species and abundance of biota in both cores and quadrats were reported.  The intertidal soft shore community surveys were conducted in low tide period on 1st (for ST), 7th (for TC3), 8th (for TC1) and 14th September 2013 (for TC2).

Data Analysis

6.3.6       Data collected from direct search and core sampling was pooled in every quadrat for data analysis. Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index (H¡¦) and Pielou¡¦s Species Evenness (J) were calculated for every quadrat using the formulae below,

H¡¦= -£U ( Ni / N ) ln ( Ni / N ) (Shannon and Weaver, 1963)

J = H¡¦ / ln S, (Pielou, 1966)

 

where S is the total number of species in the sample, N is the total number of individuals, and Ni is the number of individuals of the ith species.

6.4.1       In the event of the impact monitoring results indicating that the density or the distribution pattern of intertidal fauna and seagrass is found to be significant different to the baseline condition (taking into account natural fluctuation in the occurrence and distribution pattern such as due to seasonal change), appropriate actions should be taken and additional mitigation measures should be implemented as necessary.  Data should then be re-assessed and the need for any further monitoring should be established.  The action plan, as given in Table 6.5 should be undertaken within a period of 1 month after a significant difference has been determined. 

 

Table 6.5          Event and Action Plan for Mudflat Monitoring

Event

ET Leader

IEC

SO

Contractor

Density or the distribution pattern of horseshoe crab, seagrass or intertidal soft shore communities recorded in the impact or post-construction monitoring are  significantly lower than or different from those recorded in the baseline monitoring.

 

Review historical data to ensure differences are as a result of natural variation or previously observed seasonal differences;

Identify source(s) of impact;

Inform the IEC, SO and Contractor;

Check monitoring data;

Discuss additional monitoring and any other measures, with the IEC and Contractor.

Discuss monitoring with the ET and the Contractor;

Review proposals for additional monitoring and any other measures submitted by the Contractor and advise the SO accordingly.

 

Discuss with the IEC additional monitoring requirements and any other measures proposed by the ET;

Make agreement on the measures to be implemented.

 

Inform the SO and in writing;

Discuss with the ET and the IEC and propose measures to the IEC and the ER;

Implement the agreed measures.

 

 

Notes:

ET ¡V Environmental Team

IEC ¡V Independent Environmental Checker

SO ¡V Supervising Officer

 

Horseshoe Crabs

6.5.1       Table 3.1 and Figure 3.1 of Appendix I show the records of horseshoe crab survey at every sampling zone. In general, horseshoe crab Tachypleus tridentatus was found at all sampling zone (TC1: 10 individuals; TC2: 2 individuals; TC3: 7 individuals; ST: 94 individuals). All individuals were found on soft mud, sandy substratum or sandy substratum surrounded by small gravels. Grouping was observed while the group size ranged 2-11 individuals.

6.5.2       Since the commencement of the survey on September 2012, no individual was found at TC2 until the present survey (2 individuals). It showed that TC2 was not a suitable nursery ground for horseshoe crab.

6.5.3       According to Table 3.2 of Appendix I, the search records of Tachypleus tridentatus were 2.50 individuals hr-1 person-1 (mean prosomal widths: 31.22 mm), 0.50 individuals hr-1 person-1 (25.51 mm) and 1.75 individuals hr-1 person-1 (30.87 mm) at TC1, TC2 and TC3 respectively. Similar to previous surveys, the highest search record of 15.67 individuals hr-1 person-1 (40.39 mm) was reported at ST. According to Li (2008), the prosomal width of Tachypleus tridentatus recorded ranged 19.33 - 68.01 mm that corresponded to an estimated age of 2.6¡V8.0 years old. It was obvious that ST was an important nursery ground for horseshoe crab especially newly hatched individuals due to larger area of suitable substratum (fine sand or soft mud) and less human disturbance (far from urban district).


 

6.5.4       Figure 3.2 of Appendix I shows the changes of number of individuals, mean prosomal width and search record of horseshoe crab Tachypleus tridentatus at the every sampling zone along the sampling months. Both number of individuals and search records declined generally during dry season (from September to December 201) at TC1, TC2 and ST. The horseshoe crabs were inactive and burrowed in the sediments during cold weather (<15 ºC). Similar results of low search record in dry seasons were reported in a previous territory-wide survey of horseshoe crab. For example, the search records at Tung Chung Wan were 0.17 individuals hr-1 person-1  and 0 individual hr-1 person-1 in wet season and dry season respectively (details see Li, 2008). From December 2012 to September 2013 (present survey), both values increased with the warmer climate at the three sampling zones.

6.5.5       At ST, sharp increase of number of individuals was recorded from 15 individuals in March 2013, 59 individuals in June 2013 to 94 individuals in September 2013). A personal conversation was conducted with Prof. K.S. Shin (Department of Biology and Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) who was running a conservation programme of horseshoe crab in Hong Kong. His monitoring team had recorded similar increase of horseshoe crab population during wet season this year. It was believed the suitable ambient temperature increased its conspicuousness.

6.5.6       Figure 3.3 of Appendix I shows the changes of prosomal width of horseshoe crab Tachypleus tridentatus at ST. It was believed that most of individuals (50% records between upper and lower quartile), recorded in the dry season, had grown to a size of double in June 2013 (prosomal width increase from 10-20 mm to 30-50 mm). The individuals remained similar in size in present survey. It indicated the major moulting period occurring between March and June. At the same time, tiny individuals (10-15 mm) were found (outliers of low value) that seasonal spawning was believed occurring at ST.

6.5.7       Besides, 18 labeled individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus (prosomal width: 28.76-56.00 mm) were recorded in the present survey (Table 3.1 and Figure 3.1). All of them were released through a conservation programme conducted by Dr. Shin (CityU). It was a re-introduction trial of artificial bred and marked horseshoe crab juvenile at selected sites. So that the horseshoe crabs population might be restored in the natural habitat. Through a personal conversation with Dr Shin, about 100 individuals were released to ST on 20 June 2013. All these labeled individuals were not included in the results of present monitoring programme.

6.5.8       Another less common species Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was not found during the whole survey period except the survey conducted in December 2012 at ST (4 individuals). This species was believed present in ST at very low number while encounter was very rare.

6.5.9       The present survey was the fourth time of sampling of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impacts of the HKLR project could not be detected on horseshoe crabs considering the factor of natural, seasonal variation, In case, abnormal phenomenon (e.g. very few numbers of horseshoe individuals in warm weather) is observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

 

Seagrass Beds

6.5.10    Table 3.3 and Figure 3.3 of Appendix I show the records of seagrass beds survey at every sampling zone. Seagrass was recorded in ST only while the largest patch was Halophila ovalis located nearby the mangrove vegetation on sandy substratum at tidal level 2 m above C.D.. The estimated total area was 758.9 m2 with estimated coverage ranged 85-90%. It was a long seagrass strand merged by the growth of 2 to 3 smaller patches recorded in previous surveys from September 2012 to June 2013. Moreover, six small patches of H. ovalis were recorded on soft mud at tidal level between 1.0 m and 1.5 m above C.D.. The estimated total area of each patch ranged 1.2 - 8.0 m2 with estimated coverage ranging 15-70%. These small patches were yet recorded in previous surveys and were distant from the largest strand. Seasonal recruitment of H. ovalis was believed occurred between June and September. One small patch of Zostera japonica was found within the long strand of Halophila ovalis. The estimated area was 3.7 m2 while the estimated coverage was about 95%.

6.5.11    Figure 3.5 of Appendix I shows the changes of estimated total area of seagrass beds at ST along the sampling months. For seagrass Halophila ovalis, the total area and estimated coverage increased gradually. It showed that the seagrass was in scattered patches during dry season then grew and merged into single patch during wet season. Seasonal recruitment during wet season further increased the total area of seagrass. However it was doubt that the newly recruited patches of seagrass would survive the natural heat stress, predation and wave action. For seagrass Zostera japonica, it was not reported in the surveys of September and December 2012. Seasonal recruitment of few patches was reported between December and March. Then the patch size increased and merged gradually with the warmer climate. However the patch size decreased sharply in the present survey. The patch might not overcome the high heat stress exerted on shore between June and September 2013.

6.5.12    The present survey was the fourth time of sampling of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impacts of the HKLR project could not be detected on seagrass. The seagrass area of Halophila ovalis was increasing steadily due to natural growth and seasonal recruitment. Although that of Zostera japonica decreased in the present survey, it would be the cause of natural heat stress. In case, abnormal phenomenon (e.g. rapid reduction of seagrass patch size) was observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.5.13    Table 3.4 and Figure 3.6 of Appendix I show the types of substratum along the horizontal transect at every tidal level of every sampling zone. The relative distribution of different substrata was estimated by investigating the substratum types (Gravels & Boulders / Sands / Soft mud) of the ten random quadrats along the horizontal transect.

6.5.14    The distribution of substratum types varied among tidal levels and sampling zones. At TC1, higher percentage of ¡¥Sands¡¦ was recorded (60%) while the rest was ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ (40%) at high tidal level. High percentage of ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ (80%) was recorded at mid tidal level. Even distribution of ¡¥Soft mud¡¦ (40%) and ¡¥Sands¡¦ (40%) was recorded at low tidal level. At TC2, high percentage of ¡¥Sands¡¦ (60%) was recorded while the rest was ¡¥Soft mud¡¦ (40%) at high tidal level. But higher percentages of ¡¥Soft mud¡¦ (50-70%) and lower percentage of ¡¥Sands¡¦ (30%) were recorded at mid and low tidal levels. At TC3, high percentages of ¡¥Sands¡¦ (80-100%) were recorded at high and mid tidal levels. ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ was the major substratum (60%) at low tidal level followed by ¡¥Sands¡¦ (30%). At ST, ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ (100%) was recorded only at high tidal level. Even distribution of ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ (50%) and ¡¥Sands¡¦ (50%) was recorded at mid tidal level. At low tidal level, high percentage of ¡¥Soft mud¡¦ (80%) was recorded at low tidal level followed by ¡¥Gravels and Boulders¡¦ (20%).

6.5.15    There was neither consistent vertical nor horizontal zonation pattern of substratum type in the study site. Such heterogeneous variation should be caused by different hydrology (e.g. wave in different direction and intensity) received by the four sampling zones.

6.5.16    Table 3.5 of Appendix I lists the total abundance, density and number of taxon of every phylum in the present survey. A total of 19329 individuals were recorded. Mollusks were significantly the most abundant phylum (total individuals 18738, density 625 individuals m-2, relative abundance 96.9%). The second abundant group was arthropod (total individuals: 421, density 14 individuals m-2, 2.2%) respectively. Relatively other phyla were very low in abundance (<0.6%). Similarly, the most diverse phylum were mollusks (37 taxa) followed by arthropods (13 taxa) and annelids (8 taxa). The taxa of other phyla were relatively less (<1 taxon). The complete list of collected specimens is provided in Annex III of Appendix I.

6.5.17    Table 3.6 of Appendix I shows the number of individual, relative abundance and density of each phylum at every sampling zone. The results were similar among the four sampling zones. In general, mollusks were the most dominant phylum (no. of individuals: 3119-7510 individuals, relative abundance 93.7-98.8%). Arthropods were the second abundant phylum (no. of individuals: 49-185 individuals, 0.6-4.6%) although the number of individuals was significantly lower than that of mollusks. Relatively, other phyla were very low in abundance across the four sampling zones (< 1%) except the annelids at TC2 (no. of individuals: 57 individuals, relative abundance 1.4%).

6.5.18    Table 3.7 of Appendix I lists the abundant species (relative abundance >10%) at every sampling zone. At TC1, gastropod Batillaria multiformis was clearly the dominant species (403-406 individuals m-2, relative abundance 51-64%) at high and mid tidal levels. It was also in moderate abundance at low tidal level (32 individuals m-2, 10%). Gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (98-111 individuals m-2, 18-29%) was also abundant at high and low tidal levels. Gastropod Monodonta labio (135 individuals. m-2, 17%) was the second abundant at mid tidal level. Rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata was at moderate abundance at mid and low tidal levels (61-96 individuals m-2, 12-18%).

6.5.19    At TC2, gastropod Cerithidea cingulata was the most abundant at high tidal level (412 individuals m-2, relative abundance 50%) but was less in abundance at mid tidal level (61 individuals m-2, 13%). All three tidal levels were dominated by gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (167-271 individuals. m-2, 33-52%). At mid tidal level, rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (72 individuals m-2, 15%) was the second abundant species. At low tidal level, gastropod Batillaria zonalis (42 individuals m-2, 13%) was common-occurring species. 

6.5.20    At TC3, the high and mid tidal levels were mainly dominated by gastropods Batillaria multiformis (526-857 individuals m-2, relative abundance 49-63%), Cerithidea djadjariensis (244-310 individuals m-2, 18-29%) and Cerithidea cingulata (191-206 individuals m-2, 14-19%). At low tidal level, the abundant species were gastropod Monodonta labio (196 individuals m-2, 33%), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (158 individuals m-2, 27%) followed by gastropod Batillaria multiformis (91 individuals m-2, 15%).

6.5.21    At ST, gastropod Batillaria multiformis was highly abundant (329 individuals m-2, relative abundance 55%) at high tidal level followed by gastropod Monodonta labio (108 individuals. m-2, 18%). Relatively the abundant species were similar but lower in abundances at mid tidal level such as gastropods Cerithidea djadjariensis (88 individuals m-2, 18%), Batillaria multiformis (58 individuals m-2, 12%), Cerithidea cingulata (58 individuals m-2, 12%), Lunella coronata (56 individuals m-2, 12%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (88 individuals m-2, 18%). At low tidal level, the abundant species gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (95 individuals m-2, 44%) and Batillaria zonalis (24 individuals m-2, 11%) were also low in abundances.

6.5.22    There was no consistent zonation pattern of species distribution observed across sampling zones and tidal levels in Tung Chung Wan and San Tau. The species distribution should be determined by the type of substratum primarily. In general, gastropods Batillaria multiformis (7058 individuals, 37%), Cerithidea djadjariensis (4207 individuals, 22%), Cerithidea cingulata (2701 individuals, 14%) were the most common occurring species on sandy substratum mainly among the four sampling zones. Moreover gastropod Monodonta labio (1360 individuals, 7%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (1520 individuals, 8%), were common occurring species inhabiting gravel and boulders substratum.

6.5.23    Table 3.8 of Appendix I shows the mean values of number of species, density, H¡¦ and J of soft shore communities at every tidal level and sampling zone. Among the sampling zones, the mean number of species was generally similar among TC1, TC2 and TC3 (7-13 spp. 0.25 m-2) while ST had relatively higher value (8-15 spp. 0.25 m-2). The mean densities of TC3 (590-1371 individuals m-2) was generally higher than that of TC1 (332-800 individuals m-2) and TC2 (320-827 individuals m-2) followed by ST (218-602 individuals m-2). The mean biodiversity index and species evenness were similar that ranged 1.22-1.56 and 0.58-0.66 respectively.

6.5.24    Across the tidal levels, there was no difference of the mean number of species. Higher mean densities were observed at high and mid tidal levels. Usually higher mean biodiversity index and species evenness were observed at mid and low tidal levels.

6.5.25    Figure 3.7 of Appendix I shows the temporal changes of number of species, density, H¡¦ and J at every tidal level and sampling zone since the baseline monitoring survey (Sep 2012). No significant temporal change of any biological parameters was observed at all sampling zones. Although declined densities were reported at sampling zones TC2 (mid and low tidal levels) and TC3 (high and mid tidal levels) in dry season on December 2012, it was believed a natural, seasonal variation due to higher mortality and lower activity rate of intertidal fauna during cold, dry season. The densities of both sampling zones had increased along with the hot, wet season. At the same time, steady increases of number of species and biodiversity index were observed at ST (mid and low tidal levels).

6.5.26    The present survey was the fourth time of sampling of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impacts of the HKLR project were not detected on intertidal soft shore community.

6.6.1       Chan, K.K., Caley, K.J., 2003. Sandy Shores, Hong Kong Field Guides 4. The Department of Ecology & Biodiversity, The University of Hong Kong. pp 117.

6.6.2       Dai, A.Y., Yang, S.L., 1991. Crabs of the China Seas. China Ocean Press. Beijing.

6.6.3       Dong, Y.M., 1991. Fauna of ZheJiang Crustacea. Zhejiang Science and Technology Publishing House. ZheJiang.

6.6.4       EPD, 1997. Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (1st edition). Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR Government.

6.6.5       Fauchald, K., 1977. The polychaete worms. Definitions and keys to the orders, families and genera. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Science Series 28. Los Angeles, U.S.A.

6.6.6       Li, H.Y., 2008. The Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong. MPhil Thesis, City University of Hong Kong, pp 277.

6.6.7       Pielou, E.C., 1966. Shannon¡¦s formula as a measure of species diversity: its use and misuse. American Naturalist 100, 463-465.

6.6.8       Qi, Z.Y., 2004. Seashells of China. China Ocean Press. Beijing, China.

6.6.9       Shannon, C.E., Weaver, W., 1963. The Mathematical Theory of Communication. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, USA.

6.6.10    Shin, P.K.S., Li, H.Y., Cheung, S.G., 2009. Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong: Current Population Status and Human Exploitation. Biology and Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs (part 2), 347-360.

6.6.11    Yang, D.J, Sun, R.P., 1988. Polychaetous annelids commonly seen from the Chinese waters (Chinese version). China Agriculture Press, China.

 


                                                                  

7        ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT

7.1.1       Site Inspections were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. During the reporting month, four site inspections were carried out on 3, 10, 18 and 27 September 2013. 

7.1.2       Particular observations during the site inspections are described below.

3 September 2013

(a)     The construction materials were placed near the tree fence at S8. The Contractor removed construction materials inside the tree fence at S8. (This observation was found on 30 August 2013 and closed on 3 September 2013.)

(b)     A section of silt curtain close to the opening/entrance was shifted and the overlapping section of silt curtain for the opening/entrance became shorter when compared to the original configuration. The section of silt curtain close to the entrance was realigned to the original configuration at Portion X. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

(c)    Some of the plastic boxes were found to drift inside the silt curtain at Portion X. The Contractor cleaned up the plastic boxes which were inside the silt curtain at Portion X. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

(d)   The chemical container was found to be without the drip trays at San Pump Barge. The Contractor removed chemical container at San Pump Barge. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

(e)    Muddy water was found leaking from the site area to public road at S11. The Contractor cleaned muddy water on the public road at S11. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

(f)    The stagnant water was found inside a drip tray at West Portal. The Contractor cleaned up  stagnant water inside the drip tray at West Portal. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

(g)   The stagnant water was found inside I-beams at West Portal. The Contractor cleaned up stagnant water inside I-beams at West Portal. (This observation was closed on 10 September 2013.)

 

10 September 2013

(a)   Sand was found at the passageway of Yao Chun 138. The Contractor cleaned up the sand at Yao Chun 138 (This observation was closed on 18 September 2013.)

(b)   The chemical container was found without drip tray at Sand Pump Barge. The Contractor removed chemical container at Sand Pump Barge. (This observation was closed on 18 September 2013.)

(c)   There were some footprints (sand) on the public road area at S11. The footprints (sand) were cleaned by the street cleaning vehicle at S11. (This observation was closed on 18 September 2013.)

(d)   No drip tray was provided for the operating compressor at West Portal. The Contractor provided a drip tray for the operating compressor at West Portal. (This observation was closed on 18 September 2013.)

 


 

18 September 2013

(a)   Sand was found at the passageway LT30. The Contractor cleaned up the passageway of LT30.(This observation was closed on 27 September 2013.)

(b)   No sand bags were placed around the sand stockpile at WA04 to present muddy water discharge onto the road. The Contractor provided sand bags around the sand stockpile to prevent muddy water discharge on to the road at WA04. (This observation was closed on 27 September 2013.)

(c)   The unpaved road was found to be dry at N13. The Contractor provided water spraying on the unpaved road regularly at N13. (This observation was closed on 27 September 2013.)

(d)   The unpaved area was found to be dry at S16. The Contractor provided water spraying on the unpaved road regularly at S16. (This observation was closed on 27 September 2013.)

(e)   Oil was found inside a drip tray at West Portal. The Contractor cleaned up the oil inside the drip tray at West Portal. (This observation was closed on 27 September 2013.)

27 September 2013

(a)    Stagnant water was found inside a drip tray at West Portal. The Contractor was reminded to clean up stagnant water inside the drip tray at West Portal.

(b)   Dust emission was found at work area of West Portal. The Contractor was reminded to  provide sufficient dust mitigation measures at work area of West Portal. 

The Contractor has rectified most of the observations as identified during environmental site inspections during the reporting month. Follow-up actions for outstanding observations will be inspected during the next site inspections. 

7.2.1       The Contractor submitted application form for registration as a chemical waste producer for the Project. Sufficient numbers of receptacles were available for general refuse collection and sorting.

7.2.2       Monthly summary of waste flow table is detailed in Appendix J.

7.2.3       The Contractor was reminded that chemical waste containers should be properly treated and stored temporarily in designated chemical waste storage area on site in accordance with the Code of Practise on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes.

7.3.1       The valid environmental licenses and permits during the reporting month are summarized in Appendix L.

7.4.1       In response to the site audit findings, the Contractors carried out corrective actions.

7.4.2       A summary of the Implementation Schedule of Environmental Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is presented in Appendix M.  Most of the necessary mitigation measures were implemented properly.

7.4.3       Regular marine travel route for marine vessels were implemented properly in accordance to the submitted plan and relevant records were kept properly.

7.4.4       Dolphin Watching Plan was implemented during the reporting month.  No dolphins were observed.  The relevant records were kept properly. 


 

7.5.1       For 1-hour TSP and 24- hour TSP, no Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at AMS 5 and AMS6 during the reporting month.

7.5.2       For construction noise, no Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at the monitoring stations during the reporting month.

7.5.3       Three Action Level exceedances of suspended solid level were recorded on 6, 16 and 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities including geotextile laying activity at Zone 1 and filling activities at Zone 3A and Zone 2 on 6 September 2013; geotextile laying activity and filling works at Zone 1, stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and stone column installation at Zone 3A on 16 September 2013; stone column installation and filling works at Zone 2 and filling works at Zone 3B on 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities were carried within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA Report. There were no specific activities recorded during the monitoring period that would cause any significant impacts on monitoring results. Therefore, all exceedances were considered as non-contract related.

7.6.1       There were two complaints received during the reporting month. The summary of environmental complaints is presented in Table 7.1. The details of cumulative statistics of Environmental Complaints are provided in Appendix K.

Table 7.1          A Summary of Environmental Complaints for the Reporting Month

Environmental Complaint No.

Date of Complaint Received

Description of Environmental Complaints

COM-2013-033

13 September 2013

Noise

COM-2013-034

17 September 2013

Noise

 

7.6.2       No notification of summons and prosecution was received during the reporting period.

7.6.3       Statistics on notifications of summons and successful prosecutions are summarized in Appendix N.

 


8        FUTURE KEY ISSUES

8.1.1       As informed by the Contractor, the major construction for September 2013 and October 2013 are summarized in Table 7.1.

Table 7.1          Construction Activities for September 2013 and October 2013

Site Area

Description of Activities

Portion X

Removal of Existing Rock for Existing Seawall

Portion X

Stone Column Installation

Portion X

Sand Filling behind Stone Platform in according to EP requirements

Portion X

Band Drains Installation

Portion X

Temporary Stone Platform Construction

West Portal

Site Formation

West Portal

Tree Felling

West Portal

Slope Protection / Stabilization (Soil Nailing Works)

Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road

Works for Diversion of Airport Road and Kwo Lo Wan Road

Airport Express Line

Pre-grouting and pipe piling works for AEL Access Shafts

Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line

Utilities Detection

Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line

Establishment of Site Access

Kwo Lo Wan / Airport Road / Airport Express Line

Works for East Access Shaft

Portion Y

Access Shaft Construction for SHT and HAT

Portion Y

Utility Culvert Excavation

 

8.2.1       The tentative schedule for environmental monitoring in October 2013 is provided in Appendix D.


 

9.1.1       The construction phase and EM&A programme of the Contract commenced on 17 October 2012.

9.1.2       For 1-hour TSP and 24- hour TSP, no Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at AMS 5 and AMS 6 during the reporting month. 

9.1.3       For construction noise, no Action and Limit Level exceedances were recorded at the monitoring station during the reporting month.

9.1.4       For marine water quality monitoring undertaken during the reporting month, three Action Level exceedances of suspended solid level were recorded on 6, 16 and 18 September 2013. Marine construction activities were carried within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA report. There were no specific activities recorded during the monitoring period that would cause any significant impacts on monitoring results. Therefore, all exceedances were considered as non-contract related.

9.1.5       During the September¡¦s surveys of the Chinese White Dolphin, no adverse impact from the activities of this construction project on Chinese White Dolphins was noticeable from general observations.

9.1.6       Due to monthly variation in dolphin occurrence within the study area, it would be more appropriate to draw conclusion on whether any impacts on dolphins have been detected related to the construction activities of this project in the quarterly EM&A report, where comparison on distribution, group size and encounter rates of dolphins between the quarterly impact monitoring period (September - November 2013) and baseline monitoring period (3-month period) will be made.

9.1.7       Environmental site inspection was carried out on 3, 10, 18 and 27 September 2013.  Recommendations on remedial actions were given to the Contractors for the deficiencies identified during the site inspections.

9.1.8       There were no complaints received during the reporting month. No notification of summons and prosecution was received during the reporting period.