1 Introduction

1.1 Basic Project Information

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/D for HKLR and EP-353/2009/I for HKBCF were issued on 22 December 2014 and 17 July 2015, 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:

· New reclamation along the east coast of the approximately 23 hectares.

· 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.

· 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.

· 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.

· 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.

· 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.

· 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 thirty-ninth Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summarizes the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 December 2015.

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. Ramboll 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 Project Organisation

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 (Ramboll 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
Dismantling/trimming of temporary 40mm stone platform for construction of seawall	Portion X
Filling works behind stone platform	Portion X
Construction of seawall	Portion X
Loading and unloading of filling materials	Portion X
Band drains installation	Portion X
Excavation and lateral support works for Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Socket H-Piling work for Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X

Construction of tunnel box structure at Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Pipe piling works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Excavation for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel	Portion X
Sheet Piling Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Socket H-Piling Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut &Cover Tunnel)	Portion X
Superstructure works for Scenic Hill Tunnel West Portal Ventilation building	West Portal
Pipe piling works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Airport Road
Works for diversion	Kwo Lo Wan Road and Airport Road
Utilities detection	Airport Road/ Airport Express Line/ East Coast Road
Establishment of Site Access	Airport Road/ Airport Express Line/ East Coast Road
Canopy pipe drilling / Box Jacking underneath Airport Express Line	Airport Express Line
Pipe roofing drilling / Mined Tunnel excavation underneath Airport Road	Airport Road
Excavation and lateral support works at shaft 3 extension north shaft	Kwo Lo Wan Road
Excavation and Lateral Support Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)	Airport Road
Utility culvert excavation	Portion Y
Sub-structure & superstructure works for Highway Operation and Maintenance Area Building	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 – Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)	352	500
AMS 6 – Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)	360	500

Table 2.2 Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Monitoring Station	Action Level, µg/m³	Limit Level, µg/m³
AMS 5 – Ma Wan Chung Village (Tung Chung)	164	260
AMS 6 – Dragonair / CNAC (Group) Building (HKIA)	173	260

2.2 Monitoring Equipment

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 Monitoring Locations

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 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

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 Monitoring Methodology

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 was provided.

(iv) No furnace or incinerator flues are 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 ±2.5% 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 °C and not variable by more than ±3 °C; the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ±5%. A convenient working RH was 40%.

(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.

(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 aluminium 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 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

2.6.1 The schedule for air quality monitoring December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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	188	103 - 390	352	500
AMS6	191	83 - 385	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	54	25 - 79	164	260
AMS6	88	65 - 114	173	260

2.7.2 An Action Level exceedance 1-hr TSP level at AMS5 and two Action Level exceedance of 1-hr TSP level at AMS6 were recorded during the reporting month.

2.7.3 No Limit Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 24-hour TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month.

2.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

2.7.5 The wind data obtained from the on-site weather station during the reporting month is shown in Appendix G.

3 Noise Monitoring

3.1 Monitoring Requirements

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 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

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). L_eq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ would be recorded.	At least once per week

3.5 Monitoring Methodology

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.

(i) frequency weighting: A

(ii) time weighting: Fast

(iii) time measurement: L_eq_(30-minutes) during non-restricted hours i.e. 07:00 – 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 L_eq, 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.

3.6 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

3.6.1 The schedule for construction noise monitoring in December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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 L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)	Range of L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)	Limit Level L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)
NMS5	61	58 – 65	75

*A correction factor of +3dB(A) from free field to facade measurement 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, nearby traffic and insect noise.

3.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

4 Water Quality Monitoring

4.1 Monitoring Requirements

4.1.1 Impact water quality monitoring was carried out to ensure that any deterioration of water quality is detected, and that timely action is 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
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom)	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 Monitoring Equipment

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 – KODEN : KGP913MkII, KBG3
Water Depth Detector	Layin Associates: SM-5 & SM5A
Water Sampler	Wildlife Supply Company : 5487-10

4.3 Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

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, IS7, IS8, IS(Mf)9 & IS10,

Control/Far Field Stations:
CS2 & CS(Mf)5,

Sensitive Receiver Stations:
SR3, SR4, SR5, SR10A & SR10B

· Depth, m

· Temperature, ^oC

· Salinity, ppt

· Dissolved Oxygen (DO), mg/L

· DO Saturation, %

· Turbidity, NTU

· pH

· Suspended Solids (SS), mg/L

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

(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 Monitoring Locations

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
Monitoring Stations	Description	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
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

4.5 Monitoring Methodology

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 4^oC 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 Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month

4.6.1 The schedule for impact water quality monitoring in December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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 For marine water quality monitoring, no Action Level and Limit Level exceedances of turbidity level, dissolved oxygen level and suspended solid level were recorded during the reporting month.

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

4.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

5 Dolphin Monitoring

5.1 Monitoring Requirements

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.

5.2 Monitoring Methodology

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. The coordinates of several starting points have been revised due to the obstruction of the permanent structures associated with the construction works of HKLR and the southern viaduct of TM-CLKL, as well as provision of adequate buffer distance from the Airport Restricted Areas. The EPD issued a memo and confirmed that they had no objection on the revised transect lines on 19 August 2015, and the revised coordinates are in red and marked with an asterisk in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Co-ordinates of Transect Lines

Line No.		Easting	Northing	Line No.		Easting	Northing
1	Start Point	804671	815456*	13	Start Point	816506	819480
1	End Point	804671	831404	13	End Point	816506	824859
2	Start Point	805475	815913*	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	820880*	19	Start Point	822513	823268
7	End Point	810499	824613	19	End Point	822513	824321
8	Start Point	811508	821123*	20	Start Point	823477	823402
8	End Point	811508	824254	20	End Point	823477	824613
9	Start Point	812516	821303*	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	818853*	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

Note:
Co-ordinates in red and marked with asterisk are revised co-ordinates of transect line.

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 18 years of marine mammal monitoring surveys in Hong Kong developed by HKCRP (see Hung 2015). For each monitoring vessel survey, a 15-m inboard vessel 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 Fujinon marine binoculars. Both observers searched the sea ahead of the vessel, between 270^o and 90^o (in relation to the bow, which is defined as 0^o). 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 labeled as “primary” survey effort, while the survey effort conducted along the connecting lines between parallel lines was labeled 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 lines 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 A professional digital cameras (Canon EOS 7D and 60D models), 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 an appendix in quarterly EM&A reports.

5.3 Monitoring Results

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.3.1 During the month of December 2015, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2^nd, 7^th, 9^th and 15^th to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.

5.3.2 From these , a total of 301.52 km of survey effort was collected, with 88.2% of the total survey effort being conducted under favourable weather conditions (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with good visibility) (Annex I of Appendix H). Among the two areas, 114.10 km and 187.42 km of survey effort were collected from NEL and NWL survey areas respectively. Moreover, the total survey effort conducted on primary lines was 218.08 km, while the effort on secondary lines was 83.44 km.

5.3.3 During the two sets of monitoring surveys in December 2015, seven groups of 28 Chinese White Dolphins were sighted (Annex II of Appendix H). All seven dolphin sightings were made in NWL, while none was sighted at all in NEL.

5.3.4 During the December’s surveys, five of the seven dolphin sightings were made on primary lines during on-effort search, and none of these groups was associated with an operating fishing vessel.

5.3.5 Distribution of these dolphin sightings made in December 2015 is shown in Figure 6 of Appendix H. Most dolphin groups were clustered at the northwestern end of NWL survey area (i.e. between Black Point and Lung Kwu Chau), while a few other sightings were scattered near Pillar Point, Sha Chau and Shum Wat (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.6 As in previous months of HKLR03 monitoring surveys, none of the dolphin sightings were located in the proximity of the HKLR03 and HKBCF reclamation sites, as well as the TMCLKL alignment (Figure 6 of Appendix H). However, one sighting of a lone dolphin was made just to the south of the HKLR09 alignment (Figure 6 of Appendix H).

5.3.7 During the December’s surveys, encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data made under favourable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) are shown in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4.

5.3.8 The average dolphin group size in December 2015 was 4.0 individuals per group, which was slightly higher than the ones in previous months of monitoring surveys. Among the seven dolphin groups, five groups were composed of 1-3 individuals, while the other two were large groups with nine and ten animals respectively.

Table 5.3 Individual Survey Event Encounter Rates

		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: December 2^nd / 7^th	0.0	0.0
NEL	Set 2: December 9^th / 15^th	0.0	0.0
NWL	Set 1: December 2^nd / 7^th	4.1	17.8
NWL	Set 2: December 9^th / 15^th	4.8	11.9

Remarks:

1. Dolphin Encounter Rates Deduced from the Two Sets of Surveys (Two Surveys in Each Set) in December 2015 in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL).

Table 5.4 Monthly Average Encounter Rates

	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	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0
Northwest Lantau	4.4	3.3	15.7	11.9

Remarks:

1. Monthly Average Dolphin Encounter Rates (Sightings Per 100 km of Survey Effort) from All Four Surveys Conducted in December 2015 on Primary Lines only as well as Both Primary Lines and Secondary Lines in Northeast (NEL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL).

Photo-identification Work

5.3.9 Fifteen individual dolphins were sighted 21 times during December’s surveys (Annex III and IV of Appendix H). The majority of individuals were sighted only once during the monitoring month, but there were also four individuals (NL33, NL104, NL220 and NL272) being sighted twice and one individual (NL286) being sighted thrice.

5.3.10 Notably, four individual dolphins (NL33, NL104, NL202 and NL233) were accompanied with their calves during their re-sightings, and these individuals were consistently sighted with their calves during the past months of the HKLR03 monitoring surveys.

Conclusion

5.3.11 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.

5.3.12 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 (December 2015 – February 2016) 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. 2015. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2014-15). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 198 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.

6 Mudflat Monitoring

6.1 Sedimentation Rate Monitoring

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 1 December 2015. 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 (December 2015)
Monitoring Station	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)
S1	810291.160	816678.727	0.950	810291.172	816678.729	1.052
S2	810958.272	815831.531	0.864	810958.261	815831.520	0.974
S3	810716.585	815953.308	1.341	810716.586	815953.312	1.475
S4	811221.433	816151.381	0.931	811221.460	816151.373	1.071

Table 6.3 Comparison of measurement

	Comparison of measurement			Remarks and Recommendation
Monitoring Station	Easting (m)	Northing (m)	Surface Level (mPD)	Remarks and Recommendation
S1	0.012	0.002	0.102	Level continuously increased
S2	-0.011	-0.011	0.110	Level continuously increased
S3	0.001	0.004	0.134	Level continuously increased
S4	0.027	-0.008	0.140	Level continuously increased

6.1.6 This measurement result was generally and relatively higher than the baseline measurement at S1, S2, S3 and S4. The mudflat level is continuously increased.

6.2 Water Quality Monitoring

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 December 2015. 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
Date	DO (mg/L)	Turbidity (NTU)	SS (mg/L)	DO (mg/L)	Turbidity (NTU)	SS (mg/L)
2-Dec-15	6.56	7.35	7.20	6.51	9.50	10.40
4-Dec-15	6.29	5.95	6.40	6.71	4.85	8.40
7-Dec-15	6.31	6.40	6.40	6.38	4.75	4.75
9-Dec-15	6.30	9.55	10.50	6.47	6.60	8.30
11-Dec-15	6.34	8.35	10.35	6.22	6.55	7.80
14-Dec-15	6.62	9.95	10.25	6.61	8.60	10.70
16-Dec-15	7.22	9.55	10.70	6.75	12.05	13.70
18-Dec-15	7.16	5.80	8.70	7.38	8.20	6.55
21-Dec-15	6.78	5.20	7.30	6.98	4.10	9.25
23-Dec-15	6.86	7.75	9.55	6.81	6.40	8.50
25-Dec-15	7.03	4.00	4.30	6.97	4.55	4.65
28-Dec-15	6.90	7.60	9.10	7.14	10.30	11.65
30-Dec-15	7.12	10.05	10.45	6.94	6.80	7.85
Average	6.73	7.50	8.55	6.76	7.17	8.65

6.3 Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Methodology

Sampling Zone

6.3.1 In order to collect baseline information of mudflats in the study site, the study site was divided into three sampling zones (labeled as TC1, TC2, TC3) in Tung Chung Bay and one zone in San Tau (labeled as ST) (Figure 2.1 of Appendix I). The horizontal length of sampling zones TC1, TC2, TC3 and ST were about 250 m, 300 m, 300 m and 250 m, respectively. Survey of horseshoe crabs, seagrass beds and intertidal communities were conducted in every sampling zone. The present survey was conducted in December 2015 (totally 6 sampling days between 5^th and 20^th December 2015).

Horseshoe Crabs

6.3.2 Active search method was conducted for horseshoe crab monitoring by two experienced surveyors at every 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 individual was found, the species was identified referencing to Li (2008). The prosomal width, inhabiting substratum and respective GPS coordinate were recorded. A photographic record was taken for future investigation. Any grouping behavior of individuals, if found, was recorded. The horseshoe crab surveys were conducted on 16^th (for TC3 and ST) and 20^th (for TC1 and TC2) December 2015. The weather was cloudy and cold during the survey.

Seagrass Beds

6.3.3 Active search method was conducted for seagrass bed monitoring by two experienced surveyors at every sampling zone. During the search period, any accessible and potential area would be investigated for any seagrass beds within 2-3 hours in low tide period. Once seagrass bed was found, the species, estimated area, estimated coverage percentage and respective GPS coordinate were recorded. A photographic record was taken for future investigation. The seagrass beds surveys were conducted on 16^th (for TC3 and ST) and 20^th (for TC1 and TC2) December 2015. The weather was cloudy and cold during the survey.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.3.4 The intertidal soft shore community surveys were conducted in low tide period 5^th (for TC1), 12^th (for TC2), 13^th (for ST) and 19^th December 2015 (for TC3) At each sampling zone, three 100 m horizontal transects were laid at high tidal level (H: 2.0 m above C.D.), mid tidal level (M: 1.5 m above C.D.) and low tidal level (L: 1.0 m above C.D.). Along every horizontal transect, ten random quadrats (0.5 m x 0.5m) were placed.

6.3.5 Inside a quadrat, any visible epifauna were collected and were in-situ identified to the lowest practical taxonomical resolution. Whenever possible a hand core sample (10 cm internal diameter ´ 20 cm depth) of sediments was collected in the quadrat. The core sample was gently washed through a sieve of mesh size 2.0 mm in-situ. Any visible infauna were collected and identified. Finally the top 5 cm surface sediments were dug for visible infauna in the quadrat regardless of hand core sample was taken.

6.3.6 All collected fauna were released after recording except some tiny individuals that are too small to be identified on site. These tiny individuals were taken to laboratory for identification under dissecting microscope.

6.3.7 The taxonomic classification was conducted in accordance to the following references: Polychaetes: Fauchald (1977), Yang and Sun (1988); Arthropods: Dai and Yang (1991), Dong (1991); Mollusks: Chan and Caley (2003), Qi (2004).

Data Analysis

6.3.8 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’= -Σ ( 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 i^th species.

6.4 Event and Action Plan for Mudflat Monitoring

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

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 – Environmental Team

IEC – Independent Environmental Checker

SO – Supervising Officer

6.5 Mudflat Ecology Monitoring Results and Conclusion

Horseshoe Crabs

6.5.1 In the present survey, two species of horseshoe crab Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda (total 2 ind.) and Tachypleus tridentatus (total 6 ind.) were recorded. The total number of sight record was very low due to cold, dry season. Individuals were found on either fine sand or soft mud. Every sight record consisted of one individual only hence no grouping was observed. Photo records were shown in Figure 3.1 of Appendix I while the complete records of horseshoe crab survey in every sampling zone were shown in Annex II of Appendix I.

6.5.2 One newly hatched individual (prosomal width 6.31 mm) was found in TC1 (Figure 3.1 of Appendix I) on ST shore (GPS coordinate: 22° 17.385' N, 113° 55.460' E). Since morphological identification could not be conducted in-situ due to too small size. This record was excluded from the data analysis of either horseshoe crab species.

6.5.3 Table 3.1 of Appendix I summarizes the survey results of horseshoe crab in present survey. For Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, there was one individual in TC3 and ST only. The search record was 0.3 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 in both sampling zones. The size of individuals was quite big with prosomal width 117.37-178.17 mm.

6.5.4 For Tachypleus tridentatus, it could be found in TC1 (1 ind.), TC3 (3 ind.) and ST (2 ind.). The search records were 0.3 ind. hr^-1 person^-1, 0.8 ind. hr^-1 person^-1and 0.5 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 in TC1, TC3 and ST respectively. The size of individuals in ST (mean prosomal width 94.08 mm) was larger than that of TC1 (prosomal width 39.30 mm) and TC3 (mean prosomal width 41.98 mm).

6.5.5 In the previous survey of March 2015, there was one important finding that a mating pair of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was found in ST (prosomal width: male 155.1 mm, female 138.2 mm) (Figure 3.2 of Appendix I). It indicated the importance of ST as a breeding ground of horseshoe crab. Moreover, two moults of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda were found in TC1 with similar prosomal width 130-140 mm (Figure 3.2 of Appendix I). It reflected that a certain numbers of moderately sized individuals inhabited the sub-tidal habitat of Tung Chung Wan after its nursery period on soft shore. These individuals might move onto soft shore during high tide for feeding, moulting and breeding. Then it would return to sub-tidal habitat during low tide. Because the mating pair should be inhabiting sub-tidal habitat in most of the time. The record was excluded from the data analysis to avoid mixing up with juvenile population living on soft shore. In present survey the records of the two big individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda (prosomal width 117.37 mm and 178.17 mm) were excluded from data analysis according to the same principle.

6.5.6 No marked individual of horseshoe crab was recorded in present survey. Some marked individuals were found in previous surveys conducted in September 2013, March 2014 and September 2014. All of them were released through a conservation programme conducted by Prof. Paul Shin (Department of Biology and Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong (CityU)). It was a re-introduction trial of artificial bred horseshoe crab juvenile at selected sites. So that the horseshoe crabs population might be restored in the natural habitat. Through a personal conversation with Prof. Shin, about 100 individuals were released in the sampling zone ST on 20 June 2013. All of them were marked with color tape and internal chip detected by specific chip sensor. There should be second round of release between June and September 2014 since new marked individuals were found in the survey of September 2014.

6.5.7 The artificial bred individuals, if found, would be excluded from the results of present monitoring programme in order to reflect the changes of natural population. However, the mark on their prosoma might have been detached during moulting after a certain period of release. The artificially released individuals were no longer distinguishable from the natural population without the specific chip sensor. The survey data collected would possibly cover both natural population and artificially bred individuals.

Population difference among the sampling zones

6.5.8 Figures 3.3 and 3.4 of Appendix I show the changes of number of individuals, mean prosomal width and search record of horseshoe crabs Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and Tachypleus tridentatus respectively in every sampling zone along the sampling months. In general, higher search records (i.e. number of individuals) of both species were always found in ST followed by TC3 from September 2012 to June 2014. Then the search record in TC3 was even higher than that in ST from September 2014 to June 2015. In September 2015, the search records were similar in TC3 and ST. For TC1, the search record was at low to medium level and fluctuated slightly along the sampling months. In contrast, much lower search record was found in TC2 (2 ind. in September 2013, 1 ind. in March, June, September 2014, March and June 2015, 4 ind. in Sep. 2015). For spatial difference of horseshoe crab size, larger individuals were usually found in ST while smaller individuals were usually found in TC3.

6.5.9 Throughout the monitoring period conducted, it was obvious that TC3 and ST (western shore of Tung Chung Wan) 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). Relatively, other sampling zones were not a suitable nursery ground especially TC2. Possible factors were less area of suitable substratum (especially TC1) and higher human disturbance (TC1 and TC2: close to urban district and easily accessible). In TC2, large daily salinity fluctuation was a possible factor either since it was flushed by two rivers under tidal inundation. The individuals inhabiting TC1 and TC2 were confined in small moving range due to limited area of suitable substrata during the nursery period.

Seasonal variation of horseshoe crab population

6.5.10 Throughout the monitoring period conducted, the search record of horseshoe crab declined obviously during dry season especially December (Figures 3.3 and 3.4 of Appendix I). In December 2013, no individual of horseshoe crab was found. In December 2014, 2 individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and 8 individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus were found only. In present survey (December 2015), 2 individuals of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, 6 individuals of Tachypleus tridentatus and one newly hatched, unidentified individual were found only. The horseshoe crabs were inactive and burrowed in the sediments during cold weather (<15 ºC). Similar results of low search record in dry season were reported in a previous territory-wide survey of horseshoe crab. For example, the search records in Tung Chung Wan were 0.17 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 and 0.00 ind. hr^-1 person^-1 in wet season and dry season respectively (details see Li, 2008). After the dry season, the search record increased with the warmer climate.

6.5.11 Between the sampling months September 2012 and December 2013, Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was a less common species relative to Tachypleus tridentatus. Only 4 individuals were ever recorded in ST in December 2012. This species had ever been believed of very low density in ST hence the encounter rate was very low. Since March. 2014, it was found in all sampling zones with higher abundance in ST. Based on its average size (mean prosomal width 39.28-49.81 mm), it indicated that breeding and spawning of this species had occurred about 3 years ago along the coastline of Tung Chun Wan. However, these individuals were still small while their walking trails were inconspicuous. Hence there was no search record in previous sampling months. From March 2014 to September 2015, more individuals were recorded due to larger size and higher activity.

6.5.12 For Tachypleus tridentatus, sharp increase of number of individuals was recorded in ST with wet season (from March to September 2013). According to a personal conversation with Prof. Shin (CityU), his monitoring team had recorded similar increase of horseshoe crab population during wet season. It was believed that the suitable ambient temperature increased its conspicuousness. However similar pattern was not recorded during the wet season of 2014. The number of individuals increased in March and June 2014 followed by a rapid decline in September 2014. Then the number of individuals showed a general decreasing trend from March 2014 to June 2015. Apart from natural mortality, migration from nursery soft shore to subtidal habitat was another possible cause. Since the mean prosomal width of Tachypleus tridentatus continued to grow and reached about 50 mm since March 2014. Then it varied slightly between 50-65 mm from September 2014 to September 2015. Most of the individuals might have reached a suitable size strong enough to forage in sub-tidal habitat.

6.5.13 Since TC3 and ST were regarded as important nursery ground for horseshoe crab, box plots of prosomal width of two horseshoe crab species were constructed to investigate the changes of population in details.

Box plot of horseshoe crab populations in TC3

6.5.14 Figure 3.5 of Appendix I shows the changes of prosomal width of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and Tachypleus tridentatus in TC3. As mentioned above, Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was rarely found between September 2012 and December 2013 hence the data were lacking. In March 2014, the major size (50% of individual records between upper and lower quartile) ranged 40-60 mm while only few individuals were found. From March 2014 to September 2015, the size of major population decreased and more small individuals were recorded after March of every year. It indicated new rounds of successful breeding and spawning of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda in TC3. It matched with the previous mating record in ST in March 2015.

6.5.15 For Tachypleus tridentatus, the major size ranged 20-50 mm while the number of individuals found fluctuated from September 2012 to June 2014. Then a slight but consistent growing trend was observed. The prosomal width increased from 25-35 mm in September 2014 to 35-65 mm in June 2015. As mentioned, the large individuals might have reached a suitable size for migrating from the nursery soft shore to subtidal habitat. It accounted for the declined population in TC3. In September and December 2015 (present survey), there was only one and three individuals recorded.

Box plot of horseshoe crab populations in ST

6.5.16 Figure 3.6 of Appendix I shows the changes of prosomal width of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda and Tachypleus tridentatus in ST. As mentioned above, Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda was rarely found between September 2012 and December 2013 hence the data were lacking. From Mar. 2014 to Sep. 2015, the size of major population decreased and more small individuals were recorded after June of every year. It indicated new rounds of successful breeding and spawning of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda in ST. It matched with the previous mating record in ST in March 2015. Because most of newly hatched individuals (prosomal width ~5mm) would take about half year to grow to a size with conspicuous walking trail.

6.5.17 For Tachypleus tridentatus, a consistent growing trend was observed for the major population from December 2012 to December 2014 regardless of change of search record. The prosomal width increased from 15-30 mm to 55-70 mm. As mentioned, the large individuals might have reached a suitable size for migrating from the nursery soft shore to subtidal habitat. From March to September 2015, the size of major population decreased slightly to a prosomal width 40-60 mm. At the same time, the number of individuals decreased gradually. It further indicated some of large individuals might have migrated to sub-tidal habitats. In December 2015 (present survey), two big individuals (prosomal width 89.27 mm and 98.89 mm) were recorded only while it could not represent the major population.

6.5.18 As a summary for horseshoe crab populations in TC3 and ST, there was successful spawning of Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda from 2014 to 2015. The spawning time should be in spring while the major spawning month might be different slightly between two zones. There were consistent, increasing trends of population size in these two sampling zones. For Tachypleus tridentatus, small individuals were rarely found TC3 and ST from 2014 to 2015. It was believed no occurrence of successful spawning. The existing individuals (that recorded since 2012) grew to a mature size and migrated to sub-tidal habitat. Hence the number of individuals decreased gradually. It was expected the population would remain at low level until new round of successful spawning.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.19 The present survey was the 13^th survey of the EM&A programme during the construction period. Based on the results, impact 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 crab individuals in warm weather, large number of dead individuals on the shore) is observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

Seagrass Beds

6.5.20 In the present survey, seagrass was found in TC3 and ST only. In TC3, seagrass Halophila ovalis was found on mud flat between 0.5 and 1.0 m above C.D.. In ST, two seagrass species Halophila ovalis and Zostera japonica were recorded. Both species were found on sandy substratum nearby the seaward side of mangrove vegetation at 2.0 m above C.D. Two species were found coexisting in a long strand of seagrass bed. Photo records were shown in Figure 3.7 of Appendix I while the complete records of seagrass beds survey were shown in Annex III of Appendix I.

6.5.21 Table 3.2 of Appendix I summarize the results of seagrass beds survey. In TC3, two small patches of Halophila ovalis were found while the total seagrass bed area was about 19.8 m² (average area 9.9 m²). The patches were in irregular shape with area 5.0-14.8 m²and low-medium vegetation coverage 30-60%

6.5.22 In ST, six patches of Halophila ovalis were found while the total seagrass bed area was about 206.2 m² (average area 34.4 m²). The largest patch was in irregular shape with seagrass bed area 76.2 m² and high vegetation coverage 80%. Two smaller patches were long strands (46.8 and 51.8 m²) with medium vegetation coverage 50-60%. One of them had co-existing seagrass Zostera japonica in less vegetation coverage. The rest were small patches with seagrass bed area 2.1-16.4 m² and low to medium vegetation coverage 30-50%. For Zostera japonica, it was coexisting with Halophila ovalis in a long strand (51.8 m²) of seagrass bed with lower vegetation coverage 30%.

6.5.23 Since majority of seagrass bed was confined in ST, the temporal change of both seagrass species were investigated in details.

Temporal variation of seagrass beds

6.5.24 Figure 3.8 of Appendix I shows the changes of estimated total area of seagrass beds in ST along the sampling months. For Zostera japonica, it was not recorded in the 1^st and 2^nd surveys of monitoring programme. Seasonal recruitment of few, small patches (total seagrass area: 10 m²) was found in March 2013 that grew within the large patch of seagrass Halophila ovalis. Then the patch size increased and merged gradually with the warmer climate from March to June 2013 (15 m²). However the patch size decreased sharply and remained similar from September 2013 (4 m²) to March 2014 (3 m²). In June 2014, the patch size increased obviously again (41 m²) with warmer climate. Similar to previous year, the patch size decreased again and remained similar September 2014 (2 m²) to December 2014 (5 m²). From March to June 2015, the patch size increased sharply again (90.0 m²). It might be due to the disappearance of the originally dominant seagrass Halophila ovalis resulting in less competition for substratum and nutrients. From September to December 2015, the patch size decreased and was found coexisting with seagrass Halophila ovalis. In general, the seagrass bed of Zostera japonica fluctuated in patch size along the sampling months.

6.5.25 For Halophila ovalis, it was recorded as 3-4 medium to large patches (area 18.9 - 251.7 m²; vegetation coverage 50-80%) beside the mangrove vegetation at tidal level 2 m above C.D in the September 2012 (first survey). The total seagrass bed area grew steadily from 332.3 m² in September 2012 to 727.4 m² in December 2013. Flowers could be observed in the largest patch during its flowering period in December 2013. In March 2014, 31 small to medium patches were newly recorded (variable area 1-72 m² per patch, vegetation coverage 40-80% per patch) in lower tidal zone between 1.0 and 1.5 m above C.D. The total seagrass area increased further to 1350 m². In June 2014, these small and medium patches grew and extended to each others. These patches were no longer distinguishable and were covering a significant mudflat area of ST. It was generally grouped into 4 large areas (1116 – 2443 m²) of seagrass beds characterized of patchy distribution, variable vegetable coverage (40-80%) and smaller leaves. The total seagrass bed area increased sharply to 7629 m². In September 2014, the total seagrass area declined sharply to 1111 m². There were only 3-4 small to large patches (6 - 253 m²) at high tidal level and 1 patch at low tidal level (786 m²). Typhoon or strong water current was a possible cause (Fong, 1998). In September 2014, there were two tropical cyclone records in Hong Kong (7^th-8^th September: no cyclone name, maximum signal number 1; 14^th-17^th September: Kalmaegi maximum signal number 8SE) before the seagrass survey dated 21^st September 2014. The strong water current caused by the cyclone, Kalmaegi especially, might have given damage to the seagrass beds. In addition, natural heat stress and grazing force were other possible causes reducing seagrass beds area. Besides, Halophila ovalis could be found in other mud flat area surrounding the single patch. But it was hardly distinguished into patches due to very low coverage (10-20%) and small leaves.

6.5.26 In December 2014, all the seagrass patches of Halophila ovalis disappeared in ST. Figure 3.9 of Appendix I shows the difference of the original seagrass beds area nearby the mangrove vegetation at high tidal level between June 2014 and December 2014. Such rapid loss would not be seasonal phenomenon because the seagrass beds at higher tidal level (2.0 m above C.D.) were present and normal in December 2012 and 2013. According to Fong (1998), similar incident had occurred in ST in the past. The original seagrass area had declined significantly during the commencement of the construction and reclamation works for the international airport at Chek Lap Kok in 1992. The seagrass almost disappeared in 1995 and recovered gradually after the completion of reclamation works. Moreover, incident of rapid loss of seagrass area was also recorded in another intertidal mudflat in Lai Chi Wo in 1998 with unknown reason. Hence Halophila ovalis was regarded as a short-lived and r-strategy seagrass that can colonize areas in short period but disappears quickly under unfavourable conditions (Fong, 1998).

Unfavourable conditions to seagrass Halophila ovalis

6.5.27 Typhoon or strong water current was suggested as one unfavourable condition to Halophila ovalis (Fong, 1998). As mentioned above, there were two tropical cyclone records in Hong Kong in September 2014. The strong water current caused by the cyclones might have given damage to the seagrass beds.

6.5.28 Prolonged light deprivation due to turbid water would be another unfavouable condition. Previous studies reported that Halophila ovalis had little tolerance to light deprivation. During experimental darkness, seagrass biomass declined rapidly after 3-6 days and seagrass died completely after 30 days. The rapid death might be due to shortage of available carbohydrate under limited photosynthesis or accumulation of phytotoxic end products of anaerobic respiration (details see Longstaff et al., 1999). Hence the seagrass bed of this species was susceptible to temporary light deprivation events such as flooding river runoff (Longstaff and Dennison, 1999).

6.5.29 In order to investigate any deterioration of water quality (e.g. more turbid) in ST, the water quality measurement results at two closest monitoring stations SR3 and IS5 of the EM&A programme were obtained from the water quality monitoring team. Based on the results from June to December 2014, the overall water quality was in normal fluctuation except there was one exceedance of suspended solids (SS) at both stations in September. On 10^th September, 2014, the SS concentrations measured at mid-ebb tide at stations SR3 (27.5 mg/L) and IS5 (34.5 mg/L) exceeded the Action Level (≤23.5 mg/L and 120% of upstream control station’s reading) and Limit Level (≤34.4 mg/L and 130% of upstream control station’s reading) respectively. The turbidity readings at SR3 and IS5 reached 24.8-25.3 NTU and 22.3-22.5 NTU respectively. The temporary turbid water should not be caused by the runoff from upstream rivers. Because there was no rain or slight rain from 1^st to 10^th September 2014 (daily total rainfall at the Hong Kong International Airport: 0-2.1 mm; extracted from the climatological data of Hong Kong Observatory). The effect of upstream runoff on water quality should be neglectable in that period. Moreover the exceedance of water quality was considered unlikely to be related to the contract works of HKLR according to the ‘Notifications of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedances’ provided by the respective environmental team. The respective construction of seawall and stone column works, which possibly caused turbid water, were carried out within silt curtain as recommended in the EIA report. Moreover there was no leakage of turbid water, abnormity or malpractice recorded during water sampling. In general, the exceedance of suspended solids concentration was considered to be attributed to other external factors, rather than the contract works.

6.5.30 Based on the weather condition and water quality results in ST, the co-occurrence of cyclone hit and turbid waters in September 2014 might have combined the adverse effects on Halophila ovalis that leaded to disappearance of this short-lived and r-strategy seagrass species. Fortunately Halophila ovalis was a fast-growing species (Vermaat et al., 1995). Previous studies showed that the seagrass bed could be recovered to the original sizes in 2 months through vegetative propagation after experimental clearance (Supanwanid, 1996). Moreover it was reported to recover rapidly in less than 20 days after dugong herbivory (Nakaoka and Aioi, 1999). As mentioned, the disappeared seagrass in ST in 1995 could recover gradually after the completion of reclamation works for international airport (Fong, 1998). The seagrass beds of Halophila ovalis might recolonize the mudflat of ST through seed reproduction as long as there was no unfavourable condition in the coming months.

Recolonization of seagrass beds

6.5.31 Figure 3.9 of Appendix I shows the changes of seagrass bed area at ST. From March to June 2015, 2-3 small patches of Halophila ovalis were newly found coinhabiting with another seagrass species Zostera japonica. But its total patch area was still very low relative to the previous records. The recolonization rate was low while cold weather and insufficient sunlight were possible factors between December 2014 and March 2015. Moreover, it would need to compete with more abundant seagrass Zostera japonica for substratum and nutrient. Since Zostera japonica had extended and had covered the original seagrass bed of Halophila ovalis at certain degree. From June to December 2015, the total seagrass area of Halophila ovalis had increased rapidly from 6.8 m² to 206.21 m². It had recolonized its original patch locations and covered Zostera japonica. Hence it was expected that the seagrass bed of Halophila ovalis would increase continually in the following months.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.32 The present survey was the 13^th survey of the EM&A programme during the construction period. According to the results of present survey, there was recolonization of both seagrass species Halophila ovalis and Zostera japonica in ST. The seagrass patches were believed in recovery. Hence the negative impact of HKLR project on the seagrass was not significant. In case, adverse phenomenon (e.g. reduction of seagrass patch size, abnormal change of leave colour) is observed again, it would be reported as soon as possible.

Intertidal Soft Shore Communities

6.5.33 Table 3.3 and Figure 3.10 of Appendix I show the types of substratum along the horizontal transect at every tidal level in every sampling zone. The relative distribution of different substrata was estimated by categorizing the substratum types (Gravels & Boulders / Sands / Soft mud) of the ten random quadrats along the horizontal transect. The distribution of substratum types varied among tidal levels and sampling zones:

· In TC1, high percentage of ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (80-100%) was recorded at all tidal levels while the rest was ‘Sands’ (20% at high and low tidal levels).

· In TC2, high percentage of ‘Sands’ (60-80%) was recorded at high and mid tidal levels followed by ‘Soft mud’ (20-30%). At low tidal level, high percentage of ‘Soft mud’ (80%) was recorded followed by ‘Sands’ (20%).

· In TC3, the substratum type was clearly different between high-mid tidal level and low tidal level. ‘Sands’ (50-80%) and ‘Soft mud’ (20-40%) were the main substratum types at high and mid tidal levels. ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (100%) was the only substratum type at low tidal level.

· In ST, the substratum type was clearly different between high-mid tidal level and low tidal level. ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (100%) was the only substratum type at high and mid tidal levels. At low tidal level, higher percentage of ‘Gravels and Boulders’ (50%) was recorded followed by ‘Sands’ (30%) and ‘Soft mud’ (20%).

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

6.5.35 Table 3.4 of Appendix I lists the total abundance, density and number of taxon of every phylum in this survey. A total of 10726 individuals were recorded. Mollusca was significantly the most abundant phylum (total individuals 10409, density 347 ind. m^-2, relative abundance 97.0%). The second abundant phylum was Arthropoda (201 ind., 7 ind. m^-2, 1.9%). The less abundant phyla were Annelida (37 ind., 1 ind. m^-2, 0.3%), Sipuncula (33 ind., 1 ind. m^-2, 0.3%) and Echiura (24 ind., 1 ind. m^-2, 0.2%). Relatively other phyla were very low in abundances (density £1 ind. m^-2, relative abundance £0.1%). Moreover, the most diverse phylum was Mollusca (37 taxa) followed by Arthropoda (11 taxa) and Annelida (7 taxa). There was 1-2 taxa recorded only for other phyla. The taxonomic resolution and complete list of collected specimens are shown in Annex IV and V of Appendix I.

6.5.36 Table 3.5 of Appendix I shows the number of individual, relative abundance and density of each phylum in every sampling zone. The total abundance (1443-3660 ind.) varied among the four sampling zones while the phyla distributions were similar. In general, Mollusca was the most dominant phylum (no. of individuals: 1367-3602 ind.; relative abundance 94.7-98.4%; density 182-480 ind. m^-2). Other phyla were significantly lower in number of individuals. Arthropoda was the second abundant phylum (26-73 ind.; 0.7-3.7%; 3-10 ind. m^-2). Echiura was the third abundant phylum (17 ind.; 0.5%; 2 ind. m^-2) in TC1. Annelida was the third and forth abundant phylum (13-16 ind.; 0.4-1.1%; 2 ind. m^-2) in TC2 and TC3 respectively. Sipuncula was the third abundant phylum (16 ind.; 0.5%; 2 ind. m^-2) in TC3. Cnidaria (sea anemone) was the third abundant phylum (13 ind.; 0.5%; 2 ind. m^-2) in ST. Relatively other phyla were low in abundance among the four sampling zones (≤ 0.4%).

Dominant species in every sampling zone

6.5.37 Table 3.6 of Appendix I lists the abundant species (relative abundance >10%) in every sampling zone. In TC1, gastropod Batillaria multiformis was the most abundant species of high density (265 ind. m^-2, relative abundance 56%) followed by gastropods Cerithidea cingulata (79 ind. m^-2, 17%) and Cerithidea djadjariensis (68 ind. m^-2, 14%) at high tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’). At mid and low tidal levels (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’), the abundant species were gastropods Batillaria multiformis (121-170 ind. m^-2, 23-37%), Monodonta labio (136-156 ind. m^-2, 29-30%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (76-155 ind. m^-2, 16-29%, attached on boulders) at moderate densities.

6.5.38 At TC2, gastropod Cerithidea djadjariensis (122 ind. m^-2, 53%) was the most abundant at moderate density followed by gastropod Cerithidea cingulata (70 ind. m^-2, 20%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (56 ind. m^-2, 16%) at high tidal level (major substratum: ‘Sands’). Relative to high tidal level, the density of every species was much lower and similar at mid and low tidal levels. No species was clearly dominant. At mid tidal level (major substratum: ‘Sands’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (54 ind. m^-2, 35%), gastropods Cerithidea djadjariensis (30 ind. m^-2, 19%), Batillaria zonalis (26 ind. m^-2, 16%) and Cerithidea cingulata (18 ind. m^-2, 11%) were commonly occurring at low densities. At low tidal level (major substratum: ‘Soft mud’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (28 ind. m^-2, 44%), barnacle Balanus amphitrite (9 ind. m^-2, 14%) and gastropod Lunella coronata (7 ind. m^-2, 11%) were commonly occurring at low density.

6.5.39 At TC3, the abundant species were similar in density at high and mid tidal levels (major substratum: ‘Sands’). No species was clearly dominant. There were gastropods Cerithidea djadjariensis (96-99 ind. m^-2, 35-37%), Cerithidea cingulata (72 ind. m^-2, 25-28%), Batillaria multiformis (92 ind. m^-2, 32% at high tidal level) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (32 ind. m^-2, 12% at mid tidal level) at low-medium densities. At low tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (304 ind. m^-2, 47%) was clearly abundant followed by gastropod Monodonta labio (180 ind. m^-2, 28%) at moderate density.

6.5.40 At ST, gastropod Monodonta labio (103-136 ind. m^-2, 23-32%), rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (61-150 ind. m^-2, 14-34%) and gastropod Lunella coronata (49-69 ind. m^-2, 12-15%) were abundant at low-medium densities at high and mid tidal levels (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’). Gastropod Batillaria multiformis (111 ind. m^-2, 26%) was also at medium density at high tidal level. At low tidal level (major substratum: ‘Gravels and Boulders’), gastropod Lunella coronata (58 ind. m^-2, 30%) and rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (54 ind. m^-2, 28%) were relatively abundant at low densities.

6.5.41 In general, there was no consistent zonation pattern of species distribution observed across all sampling zones and tidal levels. The species distribution should be determined by the type of substratum primarily. In general, gastropods Batillaria multiformis (total number of individuals: 2057 ind., relative abundance 19.2%), Cerithidea djadjariensis (1155 ind., 10.8%) and Cerithidea cingulata (834 ind., 7.8%) were the most commonly occurring species on sandy and soft mud substrata. Rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata (2458 ind., 22.9%), gastropods Monodonta labio (1946 ind., 18.1%) and Lunella coronata (674 ind., 6.3%) were commonly occurring species inhabiting gravel and boulders substratum.

Biodiversity and abundance of soft shore communities

6.5.42 Table 3.7 of Appendix I shows the mean values of species number, density, biodiversity index H’ and species evenness J of soft shore communities at every tidal level and in every sampling zone. Among the sampling zones, the mean species number (11 spp. 0.25 m^-2) and mean H’ (1.6) in ST were slightly higher than other sampling zones (mean species number: 7-9 spp. 0.25 m^-2, H’ 1.2-1.4). The mean densities were quite variable among sites. The mean density of TC1 was highest (488 ind. m^-2) followed by TC3 (395 ind. m^-2) and ST (355 ind. m^-2). TC2 was lowest in mean density (192 ind. m^-2). However mean J showed no clear difference among sampling zones (0.6-0.8).

6.5.43 Across the tidal levels, there was no consistent difference of the mean number of species, H’ and J in all sampling zones. For the mean density, a general decreasing trend was observed from high to low tidal level at TC2 and ST. But a general increasing trend was observed from low to high tidal level at TC1 and TC3. As mentioned, the variation of mean density should be determined by the type of substratum primarily.

6.5.44 Figures 3.11 to 3.14 of Appendix I show the temporal changes of mean number of species, mean density, H’ and J at every tidal level and in every sampling zone along the sampling months. Overall no consistent temporal change of any biological parameters was observed. All the parameters were under slight and natural fluctuation with the seasonal variation.

Impact of the HKLR project

6.5.45 The present survey was the 13^th survey 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. In case, abnormal phenomenon (e.g. large reduction of fauna densities and species number) is observed, it would be reported as soon as possible.

6.6 Reference

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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 Proc^ess (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 Fong, C.W., 1998. Distribution of Hong Kong seagrasses. In: Porcupine! No. 18. The School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Fauna Conservation Department, p10-12.

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

6.6.8 Longstaff, B.J., Dennison, W.C., 1999. Seagrass survival during pulsed turbidity events: the effects of light deprivation on the seagrasses Halodule pinifolia and Halophila ovalis. Aquatic Botany 65 (1-4), 105-121.

6.6.9 Longstaff, B.J., Loneragan, N.R., O’Donohue, M.J., Dennison, W.C., 1999. Effects of light deprivation on the survival and recovery of the seagrass Halophila ovalis (R. Br.) Hook. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 234 (1), 1-27.

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

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

6.6.13 Qin, H., Chiu, H., Morton, B., 1998. Nursery beaches for Horseshoe Crabs in Hong Kong. In: Porcupine! No. 18. The School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Fauna Conservation Department, p 9-10.

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

6.6.15 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.

6.6.16 Supanwanid, C., 1996. Recovery of the seagrass Halophila ovalis after grazing by dugong. In: Kuo, J., Philips, R.C., Walker, D.I., Kirkman, H. (eds), Seagrass biology: Proc Int workshop, Rottenest Island, Western Australia. Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, 315-318.

6.6.17 Vermaat, J.E., Agawin, N.S.R., Duarte, C.M., Fortes, M.D., Marba. N., Uri, J.S., 1995. Meadow maintenance, growth and productivity of a mixed Philippine seagrass bed. Marine Ecology Progress Series 124, 215-225.

6.6.18 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 Site Inspection

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, five site inspections were carried out on 2, 9, 17, 23 and 29 December 2015.

7.1.2 A summary of observations found during the site inspections and the follow up actions taken by the Contractor are described in Table 7.1.

Table 7.1 Summary of Environmental Site Inspections

Date of Audit	Observations	Actions Taken by Contractor / Recommendation	Date of Observations Closed
27 Nov 2015	1. Cement bags were found not entirely covered at S15. 2. Cement storage area was not properly sheltered at S11. 3. The engine cover of a powered mechanical equipment was opened at S15. 4. Drip tray was not provided for an oil drum at HMA site. 5. Some wood strips waste was found at HMA site. 6. Oil stain was observed at HMA site.	1. The bags of cement were covered by tarpaulin at S15. 2. The cement storage area was covered on three of four sides and the top at S11. 3. The cover of powered mechanical equipment was closed at S15. 4. A drip tray was provided for the oil drum at HMA site. 5. The wood strips waste was removed at HMA site. 6. The oil stain was cleaned up at HMA site.	2 Dec 2015
2 Dec 2015	1. Some construction materials were placed near the entrance of wheel washing bay at S23. 2. Blockage of wheel washing facility was observed at N4.* 3. Accumulated waste was observed at N4. 4. A slit curtain was not properly aligned near S7.* 5. The bund next to the seafront was incomplete at S7. There was a potential to wash away silt or debris into the sea. 6. Some of barriers were placed with adsorptive side facing NSRs at S16.* 7. Rubbish was scattered on the ground at S7 and S19. A rubbish bin was full and rubbish were placed next to the bin at S25. 8. Silt/dirt was observed on the footpath near S7.	1. The drivers were asked to back their vehicles to the wheel wash facility to wash wheels thoroughly prior to leaving the site. 2. The Contractor was reminded to remove the blockage inside the wheel washing facility. 3. The accumulated waste was removed at N4. 4. The Contractor was reminded to align the silt curtain properly near S7. 5. The bund was maintained properly next to the seafront at S7. 6. The Contractor was reminded to place the noise barriers properly at S16. 7. The rubbish was removed at S7 and S19, and the rubbish was disposed of regularly at S25. 8. The silt/dirt on the footpath was cleaned up near S7.	All observations were closed on 9 Dec 2015 except the outstanding observations.
9 Dec 2015	1. An empty oil drum was observed at HMA site. 2. There was a gap in the bund at S7. 3. An abandoned tire was observed at S7. 4. Stagnant water was observed at S8. 5. Chemical containers were placed on the ground without drip trays at S11. 6. No wheel washing was provided for vehicles before leaving the site at N26.	1. The empty oil drum was removed at HMA. 2. The bund was maintained properly and no gap was found. 3. The abandoned tire was removed at S7. 4. The stagnant water was removed at S8. 5. The chemical containers were removed at S11. 6. Wheel washing was provided for vehicles before leaving the site at N26.	17 Dec 2015
17 Dec 2015	1. A slit curtain was not properly aligned at Portion X. * 2. Stagnant water was observed at S8. 3. No drip tray was provided for chemicals at S11. 4. Stagnant water was observed in a steel beam at S11. 5. Blue hoses for discharging treated effluent from a wastewater treatment facility was placed inside a shallow concrete pit at S23.	1. The Contractor was reminded to align the silt curtain properly at Portion X. 2. A pump was provided to pump the stagnant water out for treatment at S8. 3. A drip tray was provided for the chemicals at S11. 4. The stagnant water contained in the steel beam was removed at S11. 5. The blue hose (treated effluent) was connected to a designated discharge point at S23.
17 Dec 2015			All observations were closed on 17 Dec 2015 except the outstanding observations
23 Dec 2015	1. Rubbish was observed near the seafront at S7. 2. Wastewater was pumped into a concrete pit for storage at N4. 3. Oil drums were observed without drip tray at N20. 4. Dust was observed at a haul road during vehicle movement at N26. 5. Mechanical cover of a dump truck was not close when materials were being transported at S16. 6. Rubbish was scattered on the ground at S19. 7. Stagnant water was observed near roadside at S23.	1. The rubbish was removed near seafront at S7. 2. Wastewater hose was connected to wastewater treatment facility at N4. 3. The oil drums were removed at N20. 4. Spraying water to haul road was carried out to prevent dust generation during vehicle movement at N26. 5. The mechanical cover of dump truck was covered when transferring dusty materials at S16. 6. The rubbish was removed on the ground at S19 7. The stagnant water was cleaned up near roadside at S23.	29 Dec 2015
29 Dec 2015	1. Stagnant water was observed at the drip tray of A2 bridge at N20. 2. Dusty stockpile without dust control measures was observed at N26. 3. No wheel washing was provided for vehicles before leaving the site at N26. 4. Storm drain at N26 site exit was not protected. . 5. Mixer of wastewater treatment plan at N26 was not properly operated. 6. The protection of storm drain near the wastewater treatment plan at N26 was insufficient. 7. Chemical label was not observed for a container at N26.	The Contractor was recommended to: 1. remove stagnant water to avoid mosquito breeding. 2. provide water spay to dusty stockpile to avoid fugitive dust emission. 3. provide wheel washing for vehicles before leaving the site at N26. 4. provide mitigation measures to avoid falling off of objects into the drain. 5. turn on the mixer to ensure the treatment efficiency. 6. strengthen protection to the storm drain to avoid falling off of objects into the drain. 7. provide proper labelling of chemicals.	Follow-up actions for the observations issued for the last weekly site inspection of the reporting month will be inspected during the next site inspections.

Notes:

* Outstanding observations.

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

7.2 Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

7.2.1 The Contractor registered 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 Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes.

7.3 Environmental Licenses and Permits

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

7.4 Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

7.4.1 In response to the site audit findings, the Contractors have 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.

7.4.2 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 inside the silt curtain were observed. The relevant records were kept properly.

7.5 Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit

7.5.1 An Action Level exceedance 1-hr TSP level at AMS5 and two Action Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP level at AMS6 were recorded during the reporting month.

7.5.2 No Limit Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 24-hour TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month.

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

7.5.4 For marine water quality monitoring, no Action Level and Limit Level exceedances of turbidity level, dissolved oxygen level and suspended solid level were recorded during the reporting month.

7.6 Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecution

7.6.1 There were no complaints received during the reporting month. The details of cumulative statistics of Environmental Complaints are provided in Appendix K.

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 Construction Programme for the Coming Months

8.1.1 As informed by the Contractor, the major construction activities for January 2016 are summarized in Table 8.1.

Table 8.1 Construction Activities for January 2016

Site Area	Description of Activities
Portion X	Dismantling/Trimming of Temporary 40mm Stone Platform for Construction of Seawall
Portion X	Filling Works behind Stone Platform
Portion X	Construction of Seawall
Portion X	Loading and Unloading of Filling Material
Portion X	Pipe Piling
Portion X	Band Drains Installation
Portion X	Excavation and Lateral Support Works at Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Construction of Tunnel Box Structure at Scenic Hill Tunnel (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Excavation Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel
Portion X	Sheet Piling Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Socket H-Piling works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Pipe Piling works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut &Cover Tunnel)
Portion X	Jet Grouting works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel East (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Airport Road	Works for Diversion of Airport Road
Airport Road / Airport Express Line/East Coast Road	Utilities Detection
Airport Road / Airport Express Line/East Coast Road	Establishment of Site Access
Airport Road/Airport Express Line	Canopy Pipe Drilling/ Mined Tunnel Excavation/ Box Jacking underneath Airport Road and Airport Express Line
Kwo Lo Wan Road	Excavation and Lateral Support Works at shaft 3 extension north shaft
Airport Road	Excavation and Lateral Support Works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Airport Road	Pipe piling works for HKBCF to Airport Tunnel West (Cut & Cover Tunnel)
Kwo Lo Wan Road	Works for Diversion of Kwo Lo Wan Road
Portion Y	Utility Culvert Excavation
Portion Y	Sub-structure & superstructure works for Highway Operation and Maintenance Area Building
West Portal	Excavation for Scenic Hill Tunnel
West Portal	Superstructure works for Scenic Hill Tunnel West Portal Ventilation building

8.2 Environmental Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Month

8.2.1 The tentative schedule for environmental monitoring in January 2016 is provided in Appendix D.

9 Conclusions

9.1 Conclusions

9.1.1 The construction phase and EM&A programme of the Contract commenced on 17 October 2012. This is the thirty-ninth Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summarizes the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 December 2015.

Air Quality

9.1.2 An Action Level exceedance 1-hr TSP level at AMS5 and two Action Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP level at AMS6 were recorded during the reporting month.

9.1.3 No Limit Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 24-hour TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month.

Noise

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

Water Quality

9.1.5 For marine water quality monitoring, no Action Level and Limit Level exceedances of turbidity level, dissolved oxygen level and suspended solid level were recorded during the reporting month.

Dolphin

9.1.6 During the December’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.

9.1.7 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 (December 2015 – February 2016) and baseline monitoring period (3-month period) will be made.

Mudflat

9.1.8 This measurement result was generally and relatively higher than the baseline measurement at S1, S2, S3 and S4. The mudflat level is continuously increased.

9.1.9 The December 2015 survey results indicate that the impacts of the HKLR project could not be detected on horseshoe crabs, seagrass and intertidal soft shore community.

Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

9.1.10 Environmental site inspection was carried out on 2, 9, 17, 23 and 29 December 2015. Recommendations on remedial actions were given to the Contractors for the deficiencies identified during the site inspections.

1-hr TSP Monitoring	4, 10, 15, 21, 24 and 30 December 2015
24-hr TSP Monitoring at AMS5	3, 9, 14, 18, 23 and 29 December 2015
24-hr TSP Monitoring at AMS6	3, 9, 14, 18 and 29 December 2015
Noise Monitoring	10, 15, 21 and 30 December 2015
Water Quality Monitoring	2, 4, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28 and 30 December 2015
Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring	2, 7, 9 and 15 December 2015
Mudflat Monitoring (Sedimentation Rate)	1 December 2015
Mudflat Monitoring (Ecology)	5, 12, 13, 16, 19 and 20 December 2015
Site Inspection	2, 9, 17, 23 and 29 December 2015

Environmental Monitoring	Parameters	Action Level (AL)	Limit Level (LL)
Air Quality	1-hr TSP	3	0
Air Quality	24-hr TSP	0	0
Noise	L_eq_{(30 min)}	0	0
Water Quality	Suspended solids level (SS)	0	0
	Turbidity level	0	0
	Dissolved oxygen level (DO)	0	0

1.1.4 The Contract includes the following key aspects:

1.1.5 This is the thirty-ninth Monthly EM&A report for the Contract which summarizes the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 December 2015.

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.

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.

2 Air Quality Monitoring

2.1 Monitoring Requirements

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.

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

2.5.1 24-hour TSP Monitoring

2.5.2 1-hour TSP Monitoring

2.6.1 The schedule for air quality monitoring December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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.

2.7.2 An Action Level exceedance 1-hr TSP level at AMS5 and two Action Level exceedance of 1-hr TSP level at AMS6 were recorded during the reporting month.

2.7.3 No Limit Level exceedances of 1-hr TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month. No Action and Limit Level exceedances of 24-hour TSP were recorded at AMS5 and AMS6 during the reporting month.

2.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

2.7.5 The wind data obtained from the on-site 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.

3.2 Monitoring Equipment

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.

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

3.5.1 Monitoring Procedure

3.5.2 Maintenance and Calibration

3.6.1 The schedule for construction noise monitoring in December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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.

*A correction factor of +3dB(A) from free field to facade measurement 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, nearby traffic and insect noise.

3.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

4 Water Quality Monitoring

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

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

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.

4.4.2 The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in Figure 2.1.

4.5 Monitoring Methodology

4.5.1 Instrumentation

4.5.2 Operating/Analytical Procedures

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 December 2015 is provided in Appendix D.

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 For marine water quality monitoring, no Action Level and Limit Level exceedances of turbidity level, dissolved oxygen level and suspended solid level were recorded during the reporting month.

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

4.7.4 The event action plan is annexed in Appendix F.

5.1 Monitoring Requirements

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.

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

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

Photo-identification Work

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).

Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

5.3.1 During the month of December 2015, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2nd, 7th, 9th and 15th to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.

5.3.3 During the two sets of monitoring surveys in December 2015, seven groups of 28 Chinese White Dolphins were sighted (Annex II of Appendix H). All seven dolphin sightings were made in NWL, while none was sighted at all in NEL.

5.3.4 During the December’s surveys, five of the seven dolphin sightings were made on primary lines during on-effort search, and none of these groups was associated with an operating fishing vessel.

5.3.7 During the December’s surveys, encounter rates of Chinese White Dolphins deduced from the survey effort and on-effort sighting data made under favourable conditions (Beaufort 3 or below) are shown in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4.

Photo-identification Work

5.3.10 Notably, four individual dolphins (NL33, NL104, NL202 and NL233) were accompanied with their calves during their re-sightings, and these individuals were consistently sighted with their calves during the past months of the HKLR03 monitoring surveys.

Conclusion

5.3.11 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.

5.4 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. 2015. Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong waters: final report (2014-15). An unpublished report submitted to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, 198 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.

Methodology

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

6.1.6 This measurement result was generally and relatively higher than the baseline measurement at S1, S2, S3 and S4. The mudflat level is continuously increased.

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 December 2015. The monitoring parameters included dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity and suspended solids (SS).

4.4.2 The locations of these monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.4 and shown in
Figure 2.1.

5.3.1 During the month of December 2015, two sets of systematic line-transect vessel surveys were conducted on 2^nd, 7^th, 9^th and 15^th to cover all transect lines in NWL and NEL survey areas twice. The survey routes of each survey day are presented in Figures 2 to 5 of Appendix H.