'n Omgewingsbestuursisteem vir sensitiewe hange langs die provinsiale pad in Golden Gate-Hoogland Nasionale Park

Abstract

The aim of this study is the development of an environmental management system for a section of the provincial road, route R712, through the Golden Gate Highlands National Park (GGHNP). This management system may be used as a guideline for appropriate environmental management during the construction and maintenance phases of this road. To be able to compile such a system it was necessary to perform a terrain analysis of the geology, topography, pedology, climate and vegetation cover of the area. From this, all environmental risks were identified and evaluated. Furthermore it was necessary to investigate the re-alignment of the road with emphasis on the cuttings and fillings, to be able to identify and to analyze abnormal environmental disturbances in advance. From the results of this study it became clear that the environment, bordering this road, is extremely prone to erosion, especially where the vegetation cover and top soil have been removed. An environmental management system was therefore necessary to harmonize the development and utilization of the road with conservation of the environment.