9 ECOLOGical impact (TERRESTRIAL AND MARINE)

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1.1 This section presents the assessment on potential ecological impacts arising from construction and operation of the Project, which has been conducted in accordance with the criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 8 and 16 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) as well as the requirements given in Clause 3.4.10 and Appendix H of the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-319/2019).

9.2 Environmental Legislations, Standards and Guidelines

9.2.1.1 This assessment makes reference to the following Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government ordinances, regulations, standards, guidelines, and documents that are relevant to ecological impact assessment:

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499), and its subsidiary legislation – aims to avoid, minimise and control the adverse effects on the environment by designated projects through the application of the environmental impacts assessment process and the environmental permit system.

· EIAO-TM Annex 8 – recommends the criteria to be used for evaluating habitat and ecological impact.

· EIAO-TM Annex 16 – sets out the general approach and methodology for assessment of ecological impacts arising from a project or proposal, to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction and evaluation of the potential ecological impacts.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 3/2010 Flexibility and Enforceability of Mitigation Measures Proposed in an Environmental Impact Assessment Report – provides guiding principles on the approach to assess the recommended environmental mitigation measures in EIA reports.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2010 Some Observations on Ecological Assessment from the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance Perspective – clarifies the requirements of ecological assessments under the EIAO.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2010 Ecological Baseline Survey for Ecological Assessment – provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 10/2010 Methodologies for Terrestrial and Freshwater Ecological Baseline Surveys – introduces some general methodologies for terrestrial and freshwater ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2010 Methodologies for Marine Ecological Baseline Surveys – introduces some general methodologies for marine ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

· Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) – provides a legal framework for the designation, development and management of country parks and special areas. Country parks are designated for the purposes of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

· Marine Parks Ordinance (Cap. 476) and Subsidiary Legislation – allows for designation, control and management of marine parks and marine reserves through regulation of activities therein to protect, conserve and enhance the marine environment for the purposes of nature conservation, education, scientific research and recreation. The Ordinance came into effect on 1 June 1995.

· Forest and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) – prohibits felling, cutting, burning or destroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on Government land. Related subsidiary regulations prohibit the selling or possession of listed, restricted and protected plant species.

· Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170) – designated wild animals are protected from being hunted, whilst their nests and eggs are protected from injury destruction and removal. All birds and most mammals, including marine cetaceans, are protected under this Ordinance. The Second Schedule of the Ordinance, which lists all the animals protected, was last revised in June 1997.

· Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) – gives effect to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Hong Kong. It restricts import and export of species listed in CITES Appendices so as to protect wildlife from overexploitation or extinction. Certain types of corals are listed in Schedule 1 of the Ordinance, including blue coral (Heliopora coerulea), organ pipe corals (family Tubiporidae), black corals (order Antipatharia), stony corals (order Scleractinia), firecorals (family Milleporidae) and lace corals (family Stylasteridae). Cetacean including whales, dolphins, porpoises, and rorquals are also listed under Schedules 1 & 2 of the Ordinance. The import, export and possession of scheduled corals, no matter dead or living, is restricted.

· Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131) – provides designation of Coastal Protection Areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Conservation Area (CA), Country Park, Green Belt (GB) or other specified uses that promote conservation or protection of the environment.

· Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standard and Guidelines (HKPSG) – covers planning considerations relevant to conservation. This chapter details the principles of conservation, the conservation of natural landscape and habitats, historic buildings, archaeological sites and other antiquities. It also describes enforcement issue. The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involved in conservation.

· Water Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 358) – aims to control water pollution in waters of Hong Kong. WCZs are designated with individual water quality objective to promote the conservation and best use of those waters in the public interest. The most updated water quality objectives for the Victoria Harbour WCZ were revised in June 1997.

· Development Bureau (DEVB) TC(W) No. 4/2020 Tree Preservation – sets out the policy, control procedures and detailed requirements on tree preservation at different stages of Government projects as well as those under arboricultural maintenance.

· Drainage Services Department (DSD) Practice Note (PN) No. 3/2021 Guidelines on Design for Revitalisation of River Channel – presents the essential environmental and ecological considerations that should be taken into account in the design of river channels (superseding DSD PN No.1/2015 – Guidelines on Environmental and Ecological Considerations for River Channel Design).

· ETWB TCW No. 5/2005 Protection of Natural Streams/Rivers from Adverse Impacts arising from Construction Works – provide guidelines for the planning and execution of construction works and for the vetting of public and private development proposals that affect natural rivers and streams, e.g. including those not classified as environmentally sensitive.

· Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (HKBSAP) (2016-2021) – the first city-level BSAP for Hong Kong, aims to step up biodiversity conservation, support sustainable development, contribute to global efforts on biodiversity conservation and China’s National BSAP. The People’s Republic of China has become a Party of the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD) since 1993 and was formally extended to Hong Kong in May 2011.

9.2.1.2 This section also makes reference to the following international conventions and national legislation:

· The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species – provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction. The IUCN Red List also includes information on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatened thresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specific conservation programme. Using the IUCN Red List’s guidelines, categories and criteria, China had assessed overall threat status of its wild vertebrates and developed the Red List of China’s Vertebrates.

· The People’s Republic of China National Protection Lists of Important Wild Animals and Plants – lists detailed Class I & II key protected animals and Category I and II plant species under Mainland Chinese Legislation. The list was last updated in February 2021.

9.3 Assessment Methodology

9.3.1 Assessment Area

9.3.1.1 In accordance with Clause 3.4.10.2 of the EIA Study Brief, the assessment area for terrestrial ecological impact assessment includes areas within 500 m of the Project site and any other areas likely to be impacted by the Project (refer to Figure 9.1 and Figure 9.2). For marine ecology, the assessment area is same as the water quality impact assessment area (i.e. 500 m from the boundary of the Project), covering Shing Mun River and Tolo Harbour and Channel Water Control Zone.

9.3.2 Literature Review

9.3.2.1 The ecological characteristics of the assessment area were identified through a comprehensive review of the available literature. This review collated ecological information from various reports and publications, as summarised in Table 9.1.

Table 9.1 Literature Describing Ecological Resources in the Assessment Area

Relevant Literature	Terrestrial Ecology	Corals	Benthos	Intertidal	Marine Mammals and Seahorse
(1) Revitalisation of Water Bodies – Feasibility Study (DSD, 2019)	ü
(2) EIA Report for Sha Tin Cavern Sewage Treatment Works (DSD, 2016)		ü	ü	ü
(3) Ecological Status and Revised Species Records of Hong Kong’s Scleractinian Corals (AFCD, 2004)		ü
(4) Drainage Improvement in Sha Tin and Tai Po – EIA Report (DSD, 2007)		ü		ü
(5) Development of a Bathing Beach at Lung Mei, Tai Po – EIA Report (CEDD, 2007)		ü	ü	ü
(6) The Proposed Submarine Gas Pipelines from Cheng Tou Jiao Liquefied Natural Gas Receiving Terminal, Shenzhen to Tai Po Gas Production Plant, Hong Kong – EIA Report (HKCGCL, 2003)		ü	ü	ü	ü
(7) Pak Shek Kok Development – EIA Report (TDD, 1998)				ü
(8) Feasibility Study for Housing Development at Whitehead and Lee On in Ma On Shan, Sha Tin – EIA Report (TDD, 2002)		ü
(9) Consultancy Study on Marine Benthic Communities in Hong Kong (AFCD, 2002)			ü
(10)Unpublished data collected in the territory-wide long-term monitoring survey undertaken by AFCD from 2002 to 2020 (AFCD, 2020c)	ü

9.3.3 Ecological Survey Methodology

9.3.3.1 Terrestrial and marine ecological surveys were conducted between May 2020 and Nov 2020 covering both dry and wet seasons to collect up-to-date ecological baseline information and verify information from literature review for the subsequent assessment of ecological value of habitats and species, evaluation of potential ecological impact resulting from the proposed Project; and provision of appropriate mitigation measures.

9.3.3.2 Ecological surveys were conducted following the requirements stipulated under Annexes 8 and 16 of EIAO-TM and relevant EIAO Guidance Note 6/2010, 7/2010, 10/2010 and 11/2010. All field surveys were carried out in such ways to minimise unnecessary stress or damage to the existing habitats and wildlife. The ecological survey schedule is presented in Table 9.2 and the survey transects/locations are presented in Figure 9.1 and Figure 9.2. Methodologies of the ecological surveys are discussed below.

Table 9.2 Ecological Survey Schedule

Survey	2020
	Wet Season						Dry Season
	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct *	Nov
Terrestrial Ecology
Habitat and Vegetation (Day)		ü				ü
Avifauna (Day)	ü	ü	ü	ü	ü	ü
Avifauna (Night)			ü			ü
Butterfly and Odonate (Day)		ü				ü
Herpetofauna (Day)			ü			ü
Herpetofauna (Night)			ü			ü
Mammal (Day)			ü			ü
Mammal (Night)			ü			ü
Freshwater Communities (Day)		ü	ü			ü
Marine Ecology
Dive (Day)				ü			ü
Benthos (Day)				ü			ü
Intertidal (Day)				ü			ü
Note: * Transitional month

Habitat Mapping and Vegetation Survey

9.3.3.3 A habitat map showing the types and locations of terrestrial habitats within the assessment area was prepared with reference to aerial photographs obtained from Lands Department (LandsD) and ground-truthing.

9.3.3.4 During habitat surveys, ecological characteristics of each identified habitat type, including size, vegetation type, dominant species, species abundance and diversity, community structure, seasonal patterns and inter-dependence of habitats and species, and presence of any features of ecological importance, were defined and characterised. Representative photographs of the habitat types and/or any important ecological features recorded were taken. Binoculars were used to observe ecological characteristics of inaccessible areas.

9.3.3.5 Vegetation surveys were conducted along transects set across representative patches of each habitat type by direct observation. Diversity and relative abundance of flora species were recorded, with particular attention paid to the presence of any species of conservation importance. A plant species list detailing the recorded species, including presence of species of conservation importance, was prepared for each habitat in the assessment area. Nomenclature and conservation status of floral species in Hong Kong made reference to Wu & Lee (2000), Xing et al. (2000), Siu (2000), Hu et al. (2003), Hong Kong Herbarium (2012) and South China Botanical Gardens (2007; 2008; 2009; 2011).

Avifauna Survey – Transect Count Survey

9.3.3.6 Avifauna surveys were conducted monthly using transect count method covering all identified habitat type within assessment area at suitable time (usually in early morning) when birds are most active. The presence and abundance of avifauna species at various habitats were recorded visually and aurally. Night surveys were also conducted to record any nocturnal species present.

9.3.3.7 Avifauna species were recorded either by direct sightings or by their call and identified to species level. The location of any avifauna species of conservation importance encountered were recorded, along with notable behaviour (e.g. breeding behaviour such as nesting and presence of recently fledged juveniles, roosting, and feeding activities). A comprehensive list detailing species recorded in the assessment area was prepared, indicating wetland dependent species and species with conservation importance and/or protection status. Ornithological nomenclature in this report follows Carey et al. (2001), Viney et al. (2005) and the most recently updated list from the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society (HKBWS, 2020).

Butterfly and Odonate Survey

9.3.3.8 Butterflies and odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) within the assessment area were surveyed using transect count method. Attention was given to potential habitats of odonates (e.g. stream, pond). Larvae and pupae of butterfly were actively searched. The surveys were conducted under suitable weather condition (avoiding overcast weather when butterflies and odonate are less active). Relative abundance of butterfly, dragonfly and damselfly species were recorded. Nomenclature of butterfly follows Lo (2005) and nomenclature of dragonfly and damselfly follows Tam et al. (2011).

Herpetofauna Survey

9.3.3.9 Herpetofauna within the assessment area was surveyed. Potential microhabitats (e.g. leaf litter and underneath of rotten logs) were actively searched and examined. Any rocks/ objects that were turned over during the search were returned to their original location and orientation. Active searching for eggs and tadpoles of amphibians in aquatic habitats were conducted to identify breeding activity. In addition to active searching, observation of exposed, basking or foraging reptiles were recorded. Night surveys were also conducted due to the nocturnal behaviour of most herpetofauna species. All reptiles and amphibians, in any life-cycle stage, sighted or heard were recorded. Nomenclature of amphibian and reptile follows Chan et al. (2005a) and Karsen et al. (1998), respectively.

Terrestrial Mammal Survey

9.3.3.10 Surveys were conducted in areas potentially utilised by terrestrial mammals. The surveys focused on active searching for field signs of mammal occurrence, such as droppings, footprints, diggings or burrows left by larger terrestrial mammals. Mammal identification was made to species level where possible from the field signs encountered and mammal directly observed. Night surveys were also conducted to record any nocturnal species present.

9.3.3.11 Bat surveys were undertaken by an experienced surveyor equipped with an ultrasonic bat detector (Echo Meter Touch 2 Pro) at potential roosting, commuting, foraging and drinking sites, with calls recorded for later analysis with computer software (AnalookW and Kaleidoscope). Bat species were located by direct sighting and field observation (e.g. their behaviour, such as flying pattern and height, size of bat species, nearby habitats, etc.) to aid in the identification of the bat species. Nomenclature of mammal follows Shek (2006).

Freshwater Communities Survey

9.3.3.12 Freshwater fish and invertebrate community surveys were conducted via active searching, direct observation and kick sampling within the assessment area. Representative sampling locations (Figure 9.1) were selected for surveys, where rocks within the watercourses were turned over to locate any aquatic animals beneath. Kick sampling was used to survey benthic macroinvertebrates in shallow waters and hand net was used to collect organisms along the watercourses. Organisms encountered were recorded and identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level. All organisms collected were released to the point of collection after identification. No unnecessary stress was exerted on the freshwater organisms during the surveys.

Dive Survey

9.3.3.13 Spot-check dive surveys were conducted with regular zig-zag dive routes covering the assessment area of Sha Tin Hoi. Subtidal substrata (hard substratum seabed and seawall, etc.) at the spot-check dive locations (Figure 9.2) were surveyed for the presence and composition of coral communities, including hard corals (order Scleractinia), octocorals (sub-class Octocorallia) and black corals (order Antipatharia).

9.3.3.14 As corals were recorded during the spot-check dive survey, a more detailed Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) was carried out with reference to DeVantier et al. (1998) (see Appendix 9.1 for details). The location of 100m REA transect(s) were proposed, based on the preliminary results from the spot-check dives. For each transect, the locations (Global Positioning System, GPS) of dive routes, distance surveyed, number of colonies, sizes and types of corals, their coverage, abundance, condition, translocation feasibility and the conservation status of coral species in Hong Kong waters were recorded. Representative photographs were also taken.

Benthos Survey

9.3.3.15 Benthos surveys were conducted to assess marine soft bottom benthic fauna communities via grab sampling of seabed sediment at two sampling locations (refer to Figure 9.2). At each sampling location, three replicates of grab samples over a 0.1 m² area seabed substrate were collected using a van Veen grab. Samples were sieved through 0.5 mm sieves and stained with 1% Rose Bengal solution. Collected organisms were counted, weighed and identified to the lowest taxon as far as practicable.

9.3.3.16 Abundance, biomass, species diversity H’ and evenness J were calculated for pooled data, using the formulae:

H’ = - ∑ ( Ni / N ) ln ( Ni / N ) ; and

J = H’ / ln S

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.

Intertidal Survey

9.3.3.17 Surveys on intertidal communities were conducted at representative survey locations (refer to Figure 9.2) by line transect method, in order to establish an ecological profile of intertidal habitats within the assessment area.

9.3.3.18 One line transect was deployed at each survey location. The transects were laid perpendicular to shoreline from high water mark down to low water mark during the low tide period (tide level below 1 m). Along each transect, standard ecological sampling quadrat (dimensions 0.5 m x 0.5 m) were laid at 1 m intervals. Intertidal epifauna and flora within each quadrat were identified and enumerated. In general, mobile fauna were counted in terms of abundance per unit area. Sessile organisms such as barnacles, oysters and algae were estimated in terms of percentage cover per fixed area. Recorded intertidal fauna were identified to species level as far as possible. Representative photographs of intertidal habitat and flora /fauna species identified were taken.

9.4 Baseline Conditions

9.4.1 Site of Conservation Importance

Terrestrial Ecology

9.4.1.1 There are no recognised sites of conservation importance identified within the terrestrial ecology assessment area. The nearest sites of conservation importance is:

· A “Conservation Area” (“CA”) located at approximately 2.35 km southeast of the Project site outside the assessment area, zoned under the Approved Kwun Yam Shan & Fa Sam Hang Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) S/ST-KYS/11.

Marine Ecology

9.4.1.2 While there are some recognized sites of marine conservation importance within the marine ecology assessment area, all are relatively distant from the Project site:

Kei Ling Ha Mangal Site of Special Scientific Interest

9.4.1.3 The Kei Ling Ha Mangal SSSI is located within the Tolo Harbour and Channel WCZ, approximately 7.4 km northeast of the Project site. Almost all mangroves and their associated plants recorded in Hong Kong can be found in the SSSI, including the rare Thespesia populnea and the uncommon Lumnitzera racemosa (Tam et al., 1997).

Ting Kok Site of Special Scientific Interest

9.4.1.4 Ting Kok SSSI lies along the coastal area of Ting Kok Road just south of Lai Pek Shan San Tsuen (more than 8.9 km northeast of the Project site). This site supports mangrove community consisting of Kandelia obovata, Aegiceras corniculatum, Avicennia marina, Lumnitzera racemosa, Excoecaria agallocha and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (AFCD, 2020b). The species composition of this site presents a good example of plant succession.

Hoi Ha Wan Site of Special Scientific Interest

9.4.1.5 Hoi Ha Wan SSSI is a sheltered bay located at the northern coastline of Sai Kung Peninsula, approximately 11.1 km northeast of the Project site. This site is particularly favourable to coral communities as it is a sheltered bay under the influence of oceanic waters. Coral species such as Pavona decussata, Platygyra sinensis and Porites lobata occupy the shallow habitats. Alveopora irregularis and Stylocoeniella guentheri occupy the deeper habitats, while Cyphastrea spp. are found throughout different depths.

9.4.2 Literature Review

Habitat and Vegetation

9.4.2.1 Only three habitat types (modified watercourse, secondary woodland and urbanised area) had been previously recorded within the current assessment area during ecological surveys conducted for Revitalisation of Water Bodies – Feasibility Study (DSD 2019, hereafter referred to as the Revitalisation Study). Only four flora species of conservation importance were recorded in these habitats (Table 9.3).

Table 9.3 Flora Species of Conservation Importance Previously Recorded within the Assessment Area

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded ^[2]
Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis)	Common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Category II ^[4] Vulnerable ^[5]^[6]^[^7] Near Threatened ^[8]^[9]	Secondary Woodland
Silver-back Artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus)	Common	Vulnerable ^[5] Endangered ^[7] Near Threatened ^[8]^[9]	Secondary Woodland
Lamb of Tartary (Cibotium barometz)	Very common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Category II ^[4] Vulnerable ^[9]	Secondary Woodland
Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides)	Very common	Critically Endangered ^[5] Endangered ^[7]	Secondary Woodland
Notes: [1] Wu & Lee (2000). Xing, et al. (2000). Siu (2000). [2] DSD (2019). [3] Protected by the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). [4] “List of Wild Plants under State Protection” (promulgated by the Ministry of Forestry in 1999). [5] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [6] Fu & Chin (1992). China Plant Red Data Book – Rare and Endangered Plants. [7] Qin, et al. (2017). Threatened Species List of China's Higher Plants [8] Feng, et al. (2002). Study on Rare and Endangered Plants and National Key Protected Plants in Guangdong. [9] Hu, et al. (2003). Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong.

Terrestrial Fauna

Avifauna

9.4.2.2 A total of 33 avifauna species were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study, eight of which are of conservation importance (Table 9.4).

Table 9.4 Avifauna Species of Conservation Importance Previously Recorded within the Assessment Area

Common Name (Scientific Name) ^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[2]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded ^[3]
Great Egret (Ardea alba)	Common resident and winter visitor	PRC (RC) ^[4]	Modified Watercourse
Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus)	Common resident	PRC (RC) ^[4]	Modified Watercourse; Urbanised Area
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)	Common resident	PRC (RC) ^[4]	Modified Watercourse
White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)	Common resident	(LC) ^[4]	Modified Watercourse
Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)	Common resident and winter visitor	(LC) ^[4]	Modified Watercourse
Grey-chinned Minivet (Pericrocotus solaris)	Common in winter, scarce in summer	LC ^[4]	Secondary Woodland
Pygmy Cupwing (Pnoepyga pusilla)	Rare resident	LC ^[4]	Secondary Woodland
Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps)	Common resident	LC ^[4]	Secondary Woodland
Notes: [1] All wild birds are protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). [2] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [3] DSD (2019). [4] Fellowes, et al. (2002): LC=Local Concern; RC=Regional Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern. *Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in nesting and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence.

Butterfly and Odonate

9.4.2.3 Twenty-four butterfly species were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study and the unpublished AFCD data (DSD, 2019; AFCD, 2020c). Most of the recorded species are common and very common in Hong Kong, with only one uncommon species painted jezebel (Delias hyparete) (DSD, 2019). None of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

9.4.2.4 Four dragonfly species were recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study. All of the recorded species are widely distributed in Hong Kong, while none of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

Herpetofauna

9.4.2.5 The Revitalisation Study reported three reptile species within the current assessment area. None of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

9.4.2.6 Four species of amphibians were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study. One species of conservation importance was recorded within the assessment area (Table 9.5).

T able 9.5 Amphibian Species of Conservation Importance Previously Recorded within the Assessment Area

Common Name

(Scientific Name)

Distribution in

Hong Kong ^[1]

Protection Status

Habitat Recorded ^[2]

Brown Wood Frog (Hylarana latouchii)

Widely distributed

LC ^[3]

Secondary Woodland

Notes:

[1] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database.

[2] DSD (2019).

[3] Fellowes, et al. (2002): LC=Local Concern

Mammal

9.4.2.7 Only one species of mammals was previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study, which was a domestic cat (Felis catus). Eight bat species were recorded under the unpublished AFCD data (AFCD, 2020c), all of them are of conservation importance as presented in Table 9.6.

Table 9.6 Mammal Species of Conservation Importance Previously Recorded within the Assessment Area

Common Name (Scientific Name)^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[2]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded ^[3]
Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros armiger)	Very common	(LC) ^[4]	-
Pomona Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros Pomona)	Very common	(LC) ^[4]	-
Lesser Bent-winged Bat (Miniopterus pusillus)	Uncommon	(LC) ^[4] Near Threatened ^[5]	-
Chinese Myotis (Myotis chinensis)	Uncommon	(LC) ^[4] Near Threatened ^[5] Vulnerable ^[6]	-
Intermediate Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus affinis)	Uncommon	(LC) ^[4]	-
Least Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus pusillus)	Uncommon	PRC (RC) ^[4]	-
Chinese Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus sinicus)	Very common	-	-
Leschenault's Rousette (Rousettus leschenaulti)	Common	(LC) ^[4]	-
Notes: [1] Protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). [2] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [3] DSD (2019). [4] Fellowes, et al. (2002): LC=Local Concern; RC=Regional Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern. *Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in nesting and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence. [5] Jiang, et al. (2016). Red List of China's Vertebrates. [6] Wang (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Mammalia.

Freshwater Communities

9.4.2.8 Eleven freshwater fish and four freshwater macroinvertebrate species (comprising gastropods and crustaceans) were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study and the unpublished AFCD data (DSD, 2019; AFCD, 2020c). Most species recorded were common and widespread in Hong Kong. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and white-spotted spinefoot (Siganus canaliculatus) were the dominant species recorded in the upper-midstream and lower-midstream respectively. Grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) was the dominant species recorded in the downstream. None of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

Marine Ecological Resources

Coral Communities

9.4.2.9 During dive surveys undertaken for the Development of Sha Tin Cavern Sewage Treatment Works – EIA Report (DSD 2016, hereafter refers to as Sha Tin Cavern EIA Report), three species of hard corals were recorded (Favites chinensis, Oulastrea crispata, and Porites lutea). These records were made at Sha Tin Hoi between Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works (STSTW) and Science Park, which is approximately 2.4 km east of the Project site. Although all three recorded species are common in Hong Kong, they are considered species of conservation importance due to protected status under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). Low coverage of hard corals (around 1% to 5%) was recorded from the Sha Tin Cavern EIA Report.

9.4.2.10 Dive surveys were conducted along the artificial shoreline of Tai Mei Tuk, east of Ma Shi Chau, and east of Yeung Chau (9.2 km northeast of the Project site) for the Development of a Bathing Beach at Lung Mei, Tai Po – EIA Report (CEDD, 2007). A number of coral colonies of Oulastrea crispata, Cyphastrea serailia and Psammocora superficialis were recorded, all are common and widespread in Hong Kong. Each site sustained less than 10 colonies with coral coverage being less than 5%.

9.4.2.11 In the Drainage Improvement in Sha Tin and Tai Po – EIA Report (DSD, 2007), a subtidal survey was undertaken off the shore of Shuen Wan. No colonies of either hard or soft corals were recorded.

9.4.2.12 Coral communities had been recorded at Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park and Port Island at the outfall of the Tolo Channel just on the eastern edge of the Tolo Harbour and Channel WCZ (AFCD, 2004). These coral communities are located more than 11.1 km northeast of the Project site.

9.4.2.13 Dive surveys were conducted along the coasts of Tai Po Landing Point and Pak Sha Tau Chau for the Proposed Submarine Gas Pipelines from Cheng Tou Jiao Liquefied Natural Gas Receiving Terminal, Shenzhen to Tai Po Gas Production Plant, Hong Kong – EIA Report. The Tai Po Landing only supported low coverage of hard coral (Oulastrea crispate and Goniopora sp.) and black coral (Antipatharia Antipathes sp.) (HKCGCL, 2003).

9.4.2.14 Coral surveys were conducted in 2001 off the western coast of Wu Kai Sha Tsui for the Feasibility Study for Housing Development at Whitehead and Lee On in Ma On Shan, Sha Tin – EIA Report. Only one colony of black coral (approximately 0.7 m in height and 0.8 m in width) Antipathes sp. was recorded, which was widespread and common in soft seabed (TDD, 2002). The black coral colony was small and made up less than 1% of the sea bottom surface, and is located more than 6 km northeast of the Project site. No hard corals or other rare species were observed.

Benthos

9.4.2.15 Benthos surveys were conducted within Sha Tin Hoi between STSTW and Science Park during the Development of the Sha Tin Cavern EIA Report. In total, 22 species were recorded, with annelids (Phylum Annelida) recorded as the most abundant and the most diverse phylum. No benthos species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.4.2.16 During the benthos surveys undertaken for the Development of a Bathing Beach at Lung Mei, Tai Po – EIA Report, core sampling was conducted in Shuen Wan Hoi. A total of 24 species of benthic organisms were recorded, which were dominated by organisms from the Phyla Annelida and Mollusca. Samples taken in shallow waters contained high biomass and low diversity and vice versa in deep waters. No rare species or species of conservation importance was observed (CEDD, 2007).

9.4.2.17 Benthic grab samples were collected in inner Tolo Harbour just south of the Tai Po Industrial Estate for the Proposed Submarine Gas Pipelines from Cheng Tou Jiao Liquefied Natural Gas Receiving Terminal, Shenzhen to Tai Po Gas Production Plant, Hong Kong – EIA Report. Survey result showed the benthic community to be dominated by polychaetes and was characterised as low species diversity, abundance and biomass (HKCGCL, 2003). No rare species or species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.4.2.18 In a territory-wide study on marine benthic communities in Hong Kong, four grab samples were taken from Tolo Harbour and Tolo Channel (AFCD, 2002). Low species richness (4 – 23 species per 0.5 m²) and abundance (26 – 106 individuals per m²) were recorded from the two grab samples taken from Tolo Harbour. The other two grab samples, taken from Tolo Channel, also recorded low species richness (7 – 26 species per 0.5 m²) and abundance (30 – 174 individuals per m²) (AFCD, 2002). No species of conservation importance was recorded.

Intertidal Communities

9.4.2.19 Intertidal surveys were conducted along the artificial shoreline of STSTW and Ma On Shan during the Development of the Sha Tin Cavern EIA Study. A total of 31 species were recorded at the five sampling locations. No intertidal species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.4.2.20 The communities of the intertidal flats of Shuen Wan were surveyed in the Drainage Improvement in Sha Tin and Tai Po EIA report. 30 species were recorded from Shuen Wan flats. Mudsnails (Batillaria spp. and Cerithidea spp.), sand snails (Cerithidea spp.) and rock oyster (Saccostrea cucullata) dominated these intertidal flats (DSD, 2007). No species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.4.2.21 During the intertidal surveys undertaken for the Development of a Bathing Beach at Lung Mei, Tai Po – EIA Report, sandy shore, mangrove and artificial shoreline were identified and surveyed. Sandy shore supported a low diversity of species dominated by common or very common rocky shore species found in Hong Kong (CEDD, 2007). The mangroves were relatively undisturbed and were found at the mouth of Shan Liu River and Ting Kok SSSI. The recorded dominant species with the height ranging from 0.3 m to 1.5 m, these included Kandelia obovata, Excoecaria agallocha, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Aegiceras corniculatum (CEDD, 2007). These mangroves are more than 9.2 km northeast of the Project site. The artificial shoreline located adjacent to the Tai Mei Tuk barbecue sites was disturbed and species diversity was low. No species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.4.2.22 Intertidal surveys were undertaken along the artificial seawall at the Tai Po Waterfront Park (south of the Tai Po Industrial Estate) for the Proposed Submarine Gas Pipelines from Cheng Tou Jiao Liquefied Natural Gas Receiving Terminal, Shenzhen to Tai Po Gas Production Plant, Hong Kong – EIA Report. Periwinkles (Littoraria articulata and Echinolittorina radiata), gastropod (Thais clavigera) and other sessile filter-feeder organisms, such as rock oysters (Saccostrea cucullata) and barnacles (Tetraclita squamosa) were recorded to dominate this habitat. No species of conservation importance was recorded (HKCGCL, 2003).

9.4.2.23 An intertidal survey was conducted in 1997 off the shore of Tolo Highway near Deerhill Bay and Pak Shek Kok Sports Center, for the EIA Study of Pak Shek Kok Development. Upon the development of Pak Shek Kok, this area is now reclaimed land. During the survey, the man-made intertidal habitat consisted of large boulders (>1 m diameter). Each intertidal region displayed different species composition. High shore was dominated by littorinids and topshell (Monodonta labio), mid shore was dominated by herbivorous gastropods and lower shore was dominated by sea slater (Ligia exotica) (TDD, 1998). All species recorded are typical of sheltered shores in Hong Kong. No species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.5 Survey Findings

9.5.1 Habitat and Vegetation

9.5.1.1 A total of seven habitat types were recorded within the 500m assessment area during recent surveys, comprising woodland, plantation, shrubland, village/orchard, developed area/wasteland, natural and modified watercourses (Table 9.7). Habitat maps and representative photographs of habitats recorded within assessment area are shown in Figure 9.3, Figure 9.3A – 9.3B and Appendix 9.2. Only three habitat types (developed area, natural and modified watercourses) were recorded within the actual Project site.

Table 9.7 Habitats Recorded within the Assessment Area

Habitat Type	Total Area (ha)		% Assessment Area
Habitat Type	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area	% Assessment Area
Developed Area / Wasteland	4.2	154.7 (including Project site)	58.0%
Village / Orchard	-	2.4	0.9%
Plantation	-	8.4	3.2%
Shrubland	-	7.2	2.7%
Woodland	-	68.3	25.6%
Natural Watercourse	0.1	1.1 (including Project site)	0.4%
Modified Watercourse	3.0	24.6 (including Project site)	9.2%
Total	7.3	266.8	100%

9.5.1.2 A total of 366 floral species were recorded within the assessment area during the ecological surveys (Appendix 9.3), with 11 flora species of conservation importance recorded. No flora species of conservation importance was recorded within the Project site. The indicative locations and representative photographs of species of conservation importance are presented in Figures 9.3A – 9.3B and Appendix 9.4. A summary of floral species of conservation importance recorded within the assessment area is presented in Table 9.8.

Table 9.8 Flora Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong^[1]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis)	Common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Near Threatened ^[4]^[9] Category II ^[5] Vulnerable ^[6]^[7]^[8]	WL
Aralia chinensis	Common	Vulnerable ^[8]	WL
Hong Kong Eagle's Claw (Artabotrys hongkongensis)	Restricted	-	WL
Silver-back Artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus)	Common	Near Threatened ^[4]^[9] Endangered ^[7] Vulnerable ^[8]	WL
Butulang Canthium (Canthium dicoccum)	Common	Vulnerable ^[8]	WL
Lamb of Tartary (Cibotium barometz)	Very common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Vulnerable ^[4] Category II ^[5]	WL
Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides)	Very common	Endangered^[7] Critically Endangered ^[8]	WL
Luofushan Joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense)	Very common	Near Threatened ^[8]	WL; SL
Tall Rattlesnake-plantain (Goodyera procera)	Very common	Cap. 96 ^[2] Cap. 586 ^[3]	NWC
Hong Kong Pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis)	Common	Cap. 96 ^[2]	WL
(Phrynium placentarium)	Rare	-	WL
Notes: [1] Wu & Lee (2000).Xing, et al. (2000). Siu (2000). [2] Protected under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap.96) [3] Protected by the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) [4] Hu, et al. (2003). Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong. [5] “List of Wild Plants under State Protection” (promulgated by the Ministry of Forestry in 1999). [6] Fu & Chin (1992). China Plant Red Data Book – Rare and Endangered Plants. [7] Qin, et al. (2017). Threatened Species List of China's Higher Plants [8] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [9] Feng, et al. (2002). Study on Rare and Endangered Plants and National Key Protected Plants in Guangdong. Habitat Type: WL: Woodland; SL: Shrubland; NWC: Natural Watercourse.

Developed Area / Wasteland

9.5.1.3 Developed areas/ wasteland dominate the majority of assessment area, mainly comprised of roads, industrial buildings, residential areas and other facilities (e.g. schools and public playgrounds). This habitat mostly located at both sides of the Fo Tan Nullah (FTN), including the Fo Tan industrial area, down to the Shing Mun River Channel and extending to the south-eastern end of the assessment area. Vegetation recorded was mainly roadside planting, landscape species and exotic plants including Taiwan acacia (Acacia confusa), fishtail palm (Caryota maxima), flame tree (Delonix regia), Chinese banyan (Ficus microcarpa) and white popinac (Leucaena leucocephala). Some species like horsetail tree (Casuarina equisetifolia), red azalea (Rhododendron simsii) and Buddhist pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus) were also recorded in this habitat but were introduced artificially / planted, hence these species were not considered of conservation importance.

Village / Orchard

9.5.1.4 Several patches of village / orchard habitat were identified within the assessment area with no flora species of conservation importance recorded. Two small patches are located uphill along Man Hang within woodland habitat and one patch is at the hillside opposite of Chun Yeung Estate. Another small patch was recorded adjacent to the natural watercourse along Wong Chuk Yeung Street, extending out of the assessment area. Relatively larger patch of the habitat is located at the northeast of the assessment area, between Wo Liu Hang and Pat Tsz Wo Village.

9.5.1.5 The habitat had a simple structure and supported mainly fruit trees, including lychee (Litchi chinensis), longan (Dimocarpus longan), wampi (Clausena lansium), mountain orange (Melodinus suaveolens), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), papaya (Carica papaya) and common banana (Musa x paradisiaca). The ground layer of the orchard was open and colonised by limited herbs such as sword brake (Pteris ensiformis) and semi-pinnated brake (Pteris semipinnata) in most spots, with some escaped crop species such as sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) also recorded in this habitat.

Plantation

9.5.1.6 Patches of plantation are scattered within the assessment area mainly on engineered slopes along Sui Wo Road, Tsung Tau Ha Road, Pat Tsz Wo Street, Kwei Tei Street and in Kwei Tei San Chuen area. The structure of this habitat was simple, with trees ranging from 8 to 12m tall. Dominant canopy tree species included Taiwan acacia, white popinac, elephant's ear (Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa), turn-in-the-wind (Mallotus paniculatus) and Chinese red pine (Pinus massoniana) while understorey species included Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), Hong Kong hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica) and Wedelia trilobata.

Shrubland

9.5.1.7 Patches of shrubland were recorded at the northwest of the assessment area near Wo Sheung Tun. This habitat was dominated by herbaceous species dichotomy forked fern (Dicranopteris pedata) and many-flowered silvergrass (Miscanthus floridulus), as well as shrubs blood-red melastoma (Melastoma sanguineum), Vietnam leaf-flower (Phyllanthus cochinchinensis) and rose myrtle (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa). Occasional young Eucalyptus spp. was also recorded within the habitat. One species of conservation importance, luofushan joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense) was recorded at the southern edge of the habitat.

Woodland

9.5.1.8 Woodland was recorded at the northwest of the assessment area and extended to the southwest along Wong Chuk Yeung Street to Sui Wo Road. The habitat composed of a moderate to high diversity of exotic and native species with trees approximately 9 - 12m tall. The canopy was dominated by tree species Chinese gugertree (Schima superba), Lingnan garcinia (Garcinia oblongifolia), lance-leaved sterculia (Sterculia lanceolata) and many-nerved machilus (Machilus pauhoi), while understorey was colonised by a variety of young trees, shrubs and herbs, including aporosa (Aporosa dioica), common centotheca (Centotheca lappacea), reticulated leaf-flower (Phyllanthus reticulatus) and wild coffee (Psychotria asiatica). Climber species were also recorded across the habitat, including champion's bauhinia (Bauhinia championii), Dalbergia spp. and umbellate merremia (Merremia umbellata). Graveyards were found in the small area of woodland between Sui Wo Road and Fo Tan Village. This section is relatively undisturbed compared to other woodland habitats at the southwest of the assessment area. A similar composition of vegetation species was recorded with similar height.

9.5.1.9 Ten species of conservation importance were recorded from woodland habitats in the assessment area, comprising: incense tree (Aquilaria sinensis), Aralia chinensis, Hong Kong eagle's claw (Artabotrys hongkongensis), silver-back artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus), butulang canthium (Canthium dicoccum), lamb of tartary (Cibotium barometz), small persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides), luofushan joint-fir, Hong Kong pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis) and Phrynium placentarium. As part of the village/orchard habitat is located within or adjacent to woodland, some fruit tree species such as longan and lychee, were recorded in the habitat as well.

Natural Watercourses

9.5.1.10 Three natural watercourses were identified within the assessment area. Two of which are tributaries located directly upstream of FTN. Water flow of all these natural watercourses have been greatly restricted due to water abstraction in the upper reaches, resulting in a relatively slow flow. Around 90m of the natural watercourse is located within the Project site. This section is fairly natural even with its close proximity to the village and developed area. Dominant species in this section included Chinese buttonbush (Adina pilulifera), spiny-fruited vine (Byttneria grandifolia), opposite-leaved fig (Ficus hispida) and lance-leaved sterculia.

9.5.1.11 The natural watercourse further upstream FTN, namely S1, is fairly natural with width of around 3m, large boulders and rocks along both sides and a constant slow flow. Water depth is around 1 to 2m at sampling location FW1 with rock pools. Another natural watercourse (S2) run through the terrain of Man Hang is comparatively narrower, fairly intact with little disturbance. It has width of 1m, a clear, slow and shallow (<1m) water flow. The watercourse is mainly comprised of rocks within and along both sides passing through woodland habitat. Common native riparian and woodland tree species including Chinese buttonbush, lidded cleistocalyx (Cleistocalyx nervosum) and lance-leaved sterculia were recorded. Other herbaceous species recorded include grass-leaved sweet flag (Acorus gramineus), oriental blechnum (Blechnum orientale) and golden-hair grass (Pogonatherum crinitum). One species of conservation importance, tall rattlesnake-plantain (Goodyera procera), was recorded on bankside of S2.

9.5.1.12 Natural watercourse S3 was identified along Wong Chuk Yeung Street adjacent to woodland and village / orchard habitat. This watercourse is comparatively wider than S1 and S2 (ranged from 4-13m) with slightly poorer water quality. The watercourse has large boulders alongside with rocky substrate and modified bankside. Riparian vegetation included common fruit tree species such as banana from adjacent village / orchard habitat.

Modified Watercourses

9.5.1.13 Modified watercourses recorded within the assessment area mainly included the channelised FTN and Shing Mun River Channel as well as Water Supplies Department’s (WSD) water gathering ground at upstream of the Project site. This habitat was the third largest habitat within the assessment area. Water flow and level within the modified watercourses differ according to the locations. No flora species of conservation importance was recorded from this habitat type.

9.5.1.14 The channel width of FTN gradually increases from around 13 m at the most upstream section at Kwei Tei Street (section 6) to 35 m at downstream near Yuen Wo Road (section 1). Surveys of FTN for this Project divided the channel into six sections from upstream to downstream. Section 6 at upstream FTN starts from Chun Yat House / Kwei Tei Street Garden to Kerry Godown (Shatin) building, followed by section 5 to Sui Wo Road, section 4 to Shan Mei Street Basketball Court, section 3 to Tao Miao Institute, section 2 to Fo Tan Railway House and section 1 at downstream FTN to the confluence with Shing Mun River Channel at the rowing centre.

9.5.1.15 The nullah is entirely lined with concrete with a straight low flow channel running through. Water flow within the FTN is restricted to the dry weather low flow channel most time of the year at the upstream of the Tao Miao Institute. As the upstream sections of FTN have a relatively steep gradient, the water flow within the low flow channel in these sections is relatively fast. Water flow then become subjected to tidal influence starting from Tao Miao Institute. The completely hard paved channel and banksides supported very limited vegetation, except saplings of some self-sown trees (Chinese banyan and Chinese hackberry (Celtis sinensis)) and herbs (Bidens alba and Elephantopus tomentosus), developed in crevices in the concrete bed and banks.

9.5.1.16 The other major channelised watercourse is the Shing Mun River Channel which is located at downstream of FTN and south-western end of the assessment area. The channel is around 165m wide and always submerged under water subject to slight tidal influence. The channel is also completely concrete lined with limited self-seeded vegetation growing on the crevices at bankside.

9.5.2 Terrestrial Fauna

Avifauna

9.5.2.1 A total of 47 avifauna species were recorded within the assessment area, including 21 species in the Project site. While most recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, thirteen are considered species of conservation importance (Table 9.9 refers). The full list of avifauna species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. Low diversity and abundance of avifauna were recorded within the Project site, with only four species of conservation importance (Table 9.9 refers). All four species of conservation importance are common wetland dependant species [great egret (Ardea alba), little egret (Egretta garzetta), Chinese pond heron (Ardeola bacchus) and black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)] recorded in section 2 and mainly in lower tidal section 1 of FTN (Figure 9.3B refers). Foraging and day roosting behaviours were observed along the channel during the surveys, while no breeding behaviour of any avifauna species within the Project site was recorded. Scarce abundance of diurnal species of aderids occasionally roost on tree species Chinese hackberry and Chinese banyan in Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3 which are adjacent to the highly disturbed Tai Po Road – Sha Tin Flyover during daytime.

9.5.2.2 Majority of the avifauna species of conservation importance were recorded out of the Project site in upper catchment of FTN within woodland habitat (Table 9.9 refers). Two raptor species, crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) and black kite (Milvus migrans) were recorded soaring above the woodland. Crested serpent eagle was in flight at higher altitude, around 50m above ground level while black kite was in flight around 30m above ground level. Four species of conservation importance (great egret, Chinese pond heron, collared crow (Corvus torquatus) and little egret) were also recorded along the Shing Mun River Channel (outside of the Project site).

Table 9.9 Avifauna Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name) ^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[3]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
Common Name (Scientific Name) ^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[3]	Protection Status	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
Great Egret (Ardea alba)^[9]	Common resident and winter visitor	PRC (RC) ^[4]	MWC; DA	DA
Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus)^[9]	Common resident	PRC (RC) ^[4]	MWC; DA	MWC
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)	Common resident	Class II ^[5] Vulnerable ^[6]	-	WL
Common Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)	Scarce but widespread resident	Vulnerable ^[6]	-	WL
Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus)^[9]	Uncommon resident	LC ^[4] Near Threatened ^[7] Vulnerable ^[8]	-	MWC
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)^[9]	Common resident	PRC (RC) ^[4]	MWC; DA	MWC; DA
Chinese Hwamei (Garrulax canorus)	Common resident	Cap. 586 ^[2] Near Threatened ^[7]	-	WL
Silver-eared Leiothrix (Leiothrix argentauris)	Common resident	Cap. 586 ^[2] Near Threatened ^[7]	-	WL
Black Kite (Milvus migrans)	Common resident and winter visitor	Cap. 586 ^[2] (RC) ^[4] Class II ^[5]	-	WL
Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)^[9]	Common resident and winter visitor	(LC) ^[4]	MWC	-
Collared Scops Owl (Otus lettia)	Common resident	Cap. 586 ^[2] Class II ^[5]	-	WL
Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)	Uncommon resident	Cap. 586 ^[2] (LC) ^[4] Class II ^[5] Vulnerable ^[6] Near Threatened ^[7]	-	WL
Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps)	Common resident	LC ^[4]	-	WL
Notes: [1] All wild birds are protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). [2] Protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). [3] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [4] Fellowes, et al. (2002). LC=Local Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern. Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in nesting and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence. [5] “List of Wild Animals Under State Protection” (promulgated by State Forestry Administration and Ministry of Agriculture on 14 January, 1989). [6] Zheng & Wang (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Aves. [7] Jiang, et al. (2016). Red List of China's Vertebrates. [8] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [9] Wetland-dependent species (including wetland-dependent species and waterbirds). Habitat Type: WL: Woodland; MWC*: Modified Watercourse; DA: Developed Area/Wasteland.

Butterflies

9.5.2.3 A total of 46 species of butterfly species were recorded from recent survey within the assessment area, with no species considered of conservation importance. The full list of butterfly species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. The Project site itself supported a very low diversity and abundance of butterfly species with only five species recorded.

Odonates

9.5.2.4 A total of 12 odonate species were recorded from recent survey within the assessment area with only one species of conservation importance recorded (Table 9.10). The full list of odonate species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. The odonate species of conservation importance, Chinese yellowface (Agriomorpha fusca) was recorded in natural watercourse S2. The Project site supported very low diversity and abundance of odonate species with only three abundant and widespread species recorded.

Table 9.10 Odonate Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
			Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
Chinese Yellowface (Agriomorpha fusca)	Abundant; Scattered	LC^[2]	-	NWC
Notes: [1] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [2] Fellowes, et al. (2002). LC=Local Concern. Habitat Type: NWC: Natural Watercourse.

Herpetofauna

9.5.2.5 A total of seven reptile and seven amphibian species were recorded within the assessment area. The full list of herpetofauna species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. The Project site supported very low diversity and abundance of herpetofauna with no species of conservation importance recorded. While most of the recorded species are widely distributed throughout Hong Kong (AFCD, 2020a), three reptile species and one amphibian species of conservation importance were recorded (Table 9.11).

9.5.2.6 Individuals of Chinese water dragon (Physignathus cocincinus) was recorded in natural watercourse S1 and S3, while brown forest skink (Sphenomorphus incognitus) was recorded in natural watercourse S3 and in woodland habitat near S2. Despite of conservation importance globally, the recorded Chinese water dragon are seemingly introduced instead of naturally occurring. A single individual of Chinese cobra (Naja atra) was recorded in woodland at Kwai Tei Village near San Chuk Street.

9.5.2.7 Calls of lesser spiny frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa) were also recorded in natural watercourse S1.

Table 9.11 Herpetofauna Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]	Protection Status	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
Amphibians
Lesser Spiny Frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa)	Occurs throughout territory	PGC ^[3] Vulnerable ^[4]	-	NWC
Reptiles
Chinese Cobra (Naja atra)	Widely distributed	Cap. 586 ^[2] PRC ^[3] Vulnerable ^[4]^[5]^[6]	-	WL
Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus)	-	Vulnerable ^[5]	-	NWC
Brown Forest Skink (Sphenomorphus incognitus)	Distributed in streams in New Territories	Near Threatened ^[4]	-	WL; NWC
Notes: [1] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [2] Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). [3] Fellowes, et al. (2002). PRC=Potential Regional Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern. [4] Jiang, et al. (2016). Red List of China's Vertebrates. [5] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [6] Zhao (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Amphibia and Reptilia. Habitat Type: WL: Woodland; NWC: Natural Watercourse.

Mammals

9.5.2.8 Ten mammal species were recorded within the assessment area. The full list of mammal species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. All species recorded are of conservation importance except Eurasian wild pig (Sus scrofa) (Table 9.12). Only one species, Japanese pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus), was recorded within the Project site along section 3 of FTN, near Tao Miao Institute. A day roosting site was identified in Shan Mei Street Playground, where several short-nosed fruit bats (Cynopterus sphinx) were recorded roosting on Chinese fan-palm (Livistona chinensis).

9.5.2.9 Six out of the eight recorded bat species, Chinese horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus sinicus), least horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus pusillus), pomona leaf-nosed bat (Hipposideros pomona), Japanese pipistrelle, Chinese pipistrelle (Hypsugo pulveratus), lesser bamboo bat (Tylonycteris pachypus) were recorded up in the woodland near upstream of natural watercourse S1 at the northern assessment area. Bats were observed at the WSD’s water gathering ground and surrounding woodland area during sunset, suggesting the area is an activity hotspot for bat species. Group of lesser bamboo bat were recorded near bamboo clumps in woodland, while Chinese noctule (Nyctalus plancyi) were recorded in developed area habitat within Kwai Tei Village.

9.5.2.10 An individual of East Asian porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) was recorded on the fringe of woodland habitat along pedestrian footpath.

Table 9.12 Mammal Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name) ^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[2]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
Common Name (Scientific Name) ^[1]	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[2]	Protection Status	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx)	Very Common	Indeterminate ^[4] Near Threatened ^[5]	-	DA
Pomona Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros Pomona)	Very Common	(LC) ^[3]	-	WL
Chinese Pipistrelle (Hypsugo pulveratus)	Rare; Species of Conservation Concern	(LC) ^[3] Near Threatened ^[5]	-	WL
East Asian Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura)	Very Common	PGC ^[3]	-	WL
Chinese Noctule (Nyctalus plancyi)	Common	PRC, (RC) ^[3]	-	DA
Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus)	Very Common	-	MWC	WL
Chinese Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus sinicus)	Very Common	-	-	WL
Least Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus pusillus)	Uncommon	PRC, (RC) ^[3]	-	WL
Lesser Bamboo Bat (Tylonycteris pachypus)	Very Common	(LC) ^[3] Rare ^[4]	-	WL
Notes: [1] All the recorded species are protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). [2] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [3] Fellowes, et al. (2002). LC=Local Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern. Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in nesting and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence. [4] Wang (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Mammalia. [5] Jiang, et al. (2016). Red List of China's Vertebrates. Habitat Type: WL: Woodland; MWC*: Modified Watercourse; DA: Developed Area/Wasteland.

Freshwater Communities

9.5.2.11 A total of 35 freshwater fauna species were recorded within assessment area. The full list of freshwater species recorded, their protection status and habitats recorded in are presented in Appendix 9.5. Among the recorded species, there are three species of conservation importance with two species recorded within the Project site (Table 9.13). An endemic crab species, Somanniathelphusa zanklon, was recorded in FTN near Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3, while predaceous chub (Parazacco spilurus) was recorded in natural watercourse S1 near Chun Yeung Estate.

Table 9.13 Freshwater Fauna Species of Conservation Importance Recorded within the Assessment Area during Recent Survey

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]^[2]^[3]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]^[2]^[3]	Protection Status	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
Predaceous Chub (Parazacco spilurus)	Common. A widespread species occurring in most unpolluted hill streams in both upper and lower courses	Vulnerable ^[6]	NWC (FW2)	-
Somanniathelphusa zanklon	Considered endemic	GC ^[4] Endangered ^[5]	MWC (FW3)	-
Tiger Hawker (Nymph) (Polycanthagyna erythromelas)	Common; Scattered	LC ^[4]	-	NWC (FW1)
Notes: [1] Lee, et al. (2004). Field Guide to the Freshwater Fish of Hong Kong. [2] AFCD (2020a). Hong Kong Biodiversity Database. [3] Dudgeon (2003). Hillstreams - Hong Kong Field Guides 2. [4] Fellowes, et al. (2002). LC=Local Concern; GC=Global Concern. [5] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [6] Yue & Chan (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Pisces. Habitat Type: MWC: Modified Watercourse; NWC: Natural Watercourse. FW1: Freshwater sampling point 1 (Wo Sheung Tun); FW2: Freshwater sampling point 2 (Upper natural section); FW3: Freshwater sampling point 3 (Middle channel).

9.5.3 Marine Fauna

Coral Communities

9.5.3.1 Spot-check dives were carried out along two routes (DR1 to DR2) (refer to Figure 9.2). The water depth along the dive routes ranges from 1 m to 4 m. Subtidal habitats at the dive routes mainly comprise of artificial sloping boulders and concrete vertical seawall. Physical conditions of the two survey routes were similar but of different substrates. Bottom substrates along DR1 was mainly artificial sloping boulders while DR2 was mainly muddy and sandy substrate. Limited marine life was recorded from the spot-check dive, with two coral species recorded: Oulastrea crispata and Porites lutea. A very low coverage was recorded in DR1, while no coral was recorded at DR2. Details of coral recorded from spot-check dives are presented in below Table 9.14.

Table 9.14 Species, Coverage and Size of Corals Found at the Spot-check Dive Sites

Dive Site	Depth (m)	Approximate Coral Coverage (%)	Coral Species	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]
DR1	1.5 - 4	<1%	Oulastrea crispata	Common
DR1	1.5 - 4	<1%	Porites lutea	Dominant
DR2	1 - 3.5	-	-	-
Note: [1] Chan et al. (2005b).

9.5.3.2 Five REA transects (T1 to T5) were deployed, which corresponded to spot-check dive route DR1 (refer to Figure 9.2). Results from the REA dive transects was similar to the spot-check dive survey, with low coverage of coral species recorded, including Oulastrea crispata and Porites lutea. While both recorded species are either dominant or common in Hong Kong, they are species of conservation importance protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).

Benthic Communities

9.5.3.3 Benthic grab sampling surveys were conducted at sampling locations B1 and B2 (refer to Figure 9.2). No fauna was recorded at sampling location B2 in both seasons of sampling. A total of 8 and 85 specimens were collected during dry season and wet season respectively at B1 (refer to Table 9.15). A total of 8 species were identified, with Annelids recorded as the most abundant and the most diverse phylum. No species of conservation importance were recorded. The lists of collected specimens during both dry and wet seasons of the benthic community are presented in Appendix 9.6.

9.5.3.4 No particular dominance was observed during dry and wet season at B1 while B2 was devoid of benthic fauna. At sampling location B1, lower Shannon Diversity Index (H’) and higher Pielou’s Evenness Index (J) were observed in dry season when compared with wet season (refer to Table 9.16).

Table 9.15 Total Abundance and Biomass of Each Faunal Group

Fauna Group	No. of individuals	Percentage (%)	Biomass (g)	Percentage (%)
*Dry Season*
Annelida	8	100	0.01	100
Total	8	100	0.01	100
*Wet Season*
Annelida	66	78	5.89	24
Mollusca	19	22	18.39	76
Total	85	100	24.28	100

Table 9.16 Total Abundance and Biomass Recorded from Each Sampling Sites

Sampling site	No. of individuals	Biomass (g)	Species Evenness (J)	Species Diversity (H’)
*Dry Season*
B1	8	0.01	0.89	0.97
B2	-	-	-	-
Total	8	0.01	-	-
*Wet Season*
B1	85	24.28	0.54	1.30
B2	-	-	-	-
Total	85	24.28	-	-

Intertidal Communities

9.5.3.5 Intertidal communities were surveyed at three locations (N1 to N3) during both dry and wet seasons (refer to Figure 9.2). All of the sampled intertidal habitats comprised of artificial sloping rip-rap or artificial vertical seawall. A total of 13 and 15 intertidal species were recorded from dry and wet seasons respectively. All recorded intertidal species were either “common” or “very common” in Hong Kong with no records of any species of conservation importance. The lists of recorded intertidal species during both dry and wet seasons are presented in Appendix 9.7. Abundance and diversity of species were generally higher at sampling location N1 in both dry and wet seasons. Although overall species richness was generally low at all sampling locations.

9.6 Ecological Value

9.6.1.1 The ecological importance of recorded habitats was evaluated in accordance with the EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria and presented in Table 9.17 to Table 9.24 below. Species of conservation importance identified from recent survey findings and literature review of previous studies (DSD, 2019; AFCD 2020c) are summarised in Table 9.25.

Developed Area / Wasteland

9.6.1.2 Developed area within Project site mainly comprised of pedestrian road, roadside vegetation and open space. Whereas developed area / wasteland out of Project site comprised of roads and access paths, roadside vegetation, residential areas, industrial area and public utilities. This habitat was subjected to high level of human disturbance. It supported low- to moderate diversity but low abundance of floral species within and out of the Project site respectively, with majority of them being exotic and/or planted /ornamental species. Faunal diversity and abundance were low within the Project site and low to moderate in the habitat out of the Project site. It is highly re-creatable and has low ecological potential. The ecological value of this habitat is therefore considered low.

Table 9.17 Ecological Evaluation of Developed Area / Wasteland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Developed Area / Wasteland
Naturalness	Low
Size	Large (Project site 4.2 ha, assessment area outside Project site 150.5 ha, total 154.7 ha)
Diversity	Project Site n Low flora diversity, most are exotic and /or planted n Low fauna diversity Assessment Area outside Project Site n Moderate flora diversity, but most are exotic and /or planted n Low to moderate fauna diversity
Rarity	n Very common man-made habitat in Hong Kong Recent Survey Project Site n Three avifauna species of conservation importance recorded Assessment Area outside Project Site n Two avifauna and two mammal species of conservation importance recorded Previous Study n One avifauna species of conservation importance recorded
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	None
Ecological linkage	None observed
Potential value	Low
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursey or breeding ground
Age	N/A
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low to Moderate
Ecological value	Low

Village / Orchard

9.6.1.3 Village / orchard habitat within the assessment area supported low floral diversity of predominantly introduced and planted fruit tree and crop species. This habitat located at the fringe of woodland habitat and supported low abundance, low to moderate diversity of flora, mostly exotic and planted. Given that this is a man-made habitat disturbed by human activities, the ecological value of this habitat is considered low.

Table 9.18 Ecological Evaluation of Village / Orchard within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Village / Orchard
Naturalness	Low – artificial habitat
Size	Small (2.4 ha)
Diversity	n Low to moderate floral diversity n Very low faunal diversity
Rarity	n Common man-made habitat in Hong Kong. Recent Survey n No records of species of conservation importance Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Intact but isolated
Ecological linkage	Structurally connected to woodland habitat within the assessment area
Potential value	Low
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	N/A
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

Plantation

9.6.1.4 Plantation habitats within the assessment area were artificially created and mainly comprised exotic tree planting on slopes within developed areas with low to moderate floral and low faunal diversity with low wildlife richness. Only two fauna groups, avifauna and butterflies were recorded in the habitat. The ecological value of this habitat is low given its small size and scattered nature. This habitat is considered as of low ecological value.

Table 9.19 Ecological Evaluation of Plantation within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Plantation
Naturalness	Low – artificial habitat
Size	Small (8.4 ha)
Diversity	n Low to moderate floral diversity n Low faunal diversity
Rarity	n Common man-made habitat in Hong Kong. Recent Survey n No records of species of conservation importance Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Moderate – Scattered plantation habitats in assessment area
Ecological linkage	Structurally connected to adjacent woodland habitat
Potential value	Low
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

Shrubland

9.6.1.5 Shrubland habitat within the assessment area was a semi-natural habitat derived from disturbed grassland through natural succession. This habitat supported low and very low floral and faunal diversity respectively. Patches of this habitat were interspersed with woodland habitat in the assessment area. While this habitat has the potential to succeed to woodland if time is allowed for maturation and natural succession, this habitat was prone to human disturbance (e.g. hill fire) given the number of graves present around the hillside. The ecological value of this habitat is therefore considered low to moderate value.

Table 9.20 Ecological Evaluation of Shrubland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Shrubland
Naturalness	Low to moderate
Size	Small (7.2 ha)
Diversity	n Low floral diversity n Very low faunal diversity
Rarity	n A common habitat in Hong Kong. Recent Survey n One flora species of conservation importance Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	Re-creatable if time is allowed for maturation and natural succession
Fragmentation	Moderate – patches within woodland habitat
Ecological linkage	Structurally connected to adjacent woodland habitat
Potential value	Low to moderate
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low to moderate
Ecological value	Low to moderate

Woodland

9.6.1.6 The woodland habitat identified within the assessment area was considered to be of moderate to high value due to its naturalness, size, flora and fauna diversity, and its ecological linkage to the woodland at Wo Sheung Tun mountain at the north-western end of the assessment area. The habitat supported the greatest diversity and abundance of avifauna and butterflies amongst all recorded habitats.

Table 9.21 Ecological Evaluation of Woodland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Woodland
Naturalness	High – habitat generated from natural succession
Size	Large (68.3 ha)
Diversity	n Moderate to high floral diversity n Moderate faunal diversity
Rarity	n Common habitat in Hong Kong Recent Survey n Nine flora, eight avifauna, two reptile and seven mammal species of conservation importance recorded Previous Study n Four flora, three avifauna, one amphibian species of conservation importance recorded
Re-creatability	Low to moderate – decades needed for woodland to establish and mature
Fragmentation	Low to moderate – woodland habitats at north-western end of assessment area are intact but some are interspersed with developed area
Ecological linkage	Structurally and functionally connected to natural watercourses within the assessment area and woodland at Wo Sheung Tun
Potential value	Moderate to high (given protection for natural succession)
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	20 – 40 years
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Moderate to high
Ecological value	Moderate to high

Natural Watercourse

9.6.1.7 Three natural watercourses were identified within the assessment area. Natural watercourses S1 and S2 are situated within woodland valleys near Wo Sheung Tun, the habitats are therefore fairly natural with little disturbance. These two watercourses are directly connected with the surrounding woodland habitat and supported the greatest diversity and abundance of odonate and freshwater species amongst all recorded habitats.

9.6.1.8 Natural watercourse S3 was relatively wider than S1 and S2. Yet, its bankside was slightly modified into concrete substrate and subjected to larger disturbance by nearby village / orchard habitat. S3 is directly connected to woodland habitat at the southern side and supported two fauna species of conservation importance. Its ecological value is therefore considered as low to moderate.

Tabl e 9.22 Ecological Evaluation of Natural Watercourse within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Natural Watercourse
Criteria	S1		S2		S3
Naturalness	High		High		Moderate
Size / Length	Very small 621.9m (130m within Project site)		Very small 572.4m		Very small 451.1m
Diversity	n Low to moderate floral diversity n Low to moderate faunal diversity
Rarity	n Common habitat in Hong Kong
	Recent Survey n One reptile, one amphibian and one freshwater species of conservation importance recorded	Recent Survey n One flora and one odonate species of conservation importance recorded		Recent Survey n Two reptile species of conservation importance recorded
	Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	Low		Low		Low
Fragmentation	Low		Low		Low
Ecological linkage	Structurally connected to adjacent woodland		Structurally connected to adjacent woodland		Structurally connected to adjacent woodland
Potential value	Moderate		Moderate		Moderate
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground		No records of nursery or breeding ground		No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	N/A		N/A		N/A
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low to moderate		Low to moderate		Low to moderate
Ecological value	Moderate		Moderate		Low to moderate

Modified Watercourse

9.6.1.9 Modified watercourse habitat identified within assessment area mainly included FTN and Shing Mun River Channel, in which both were completely lined with concrete. Whole area of FTN falls within the Project site, with limited flow in the upper sections 3, 4, 5 and 6 (up till Tai Miao Institute) and lower sections 1 and 2 (starting from Fo Tan Station) tidally influenced. Overall, the flora diversity is low with mainly saplings of self-sown trees and herbs developed in crevices of concrete bed and banks only. However, lower section of the nullah supported some wetland dependent avifauna, and FTN is both hydraulically and functionally connected to upstream natural watercourse. Ecological value of FTN at section 1 and 2 are therefore considered as low to moderate, while the other sections are considered as low.

Table 9.23 Ecological Evaluation of Modified Watercourse (Fo Tan Nullah) within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Modified Watercourse
	Fo Tan Nullah
	Section 1 and 2	Section 3 and 4	Section 5 and 6
Naturalness	Low
Size	Small (3.0 ha within Project site)
Diversity	n Low floral diversity n Low to moderate faunal diversity
Rarity	n Typical engineered channel habitat in Hong Kong
	Recent Survey n Four avifauna and one freshwater species of conservation importance recorded	Recent Survey n One mammal species of conservation importance recorded	Recent Survey n No records of species of conservation importance
	Previous Study n Five avifauna species of conservation importance recorded	Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance	Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Low
Ecological linkage	Hydrologically and functionally linked with upper catchment natural watercourse habitat
Potential value	Low
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	River training works completed in early 1980s
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low to moderate	Low	Low
Ecological value	Low to Moderate	Low	Low

9.6.1.10 The Shing Mun River Channel is located at the south-eastern end of the assessment area and is connected to the Project site. The modified watercourse of the channel is permanently inundated even with daily tidal exchange, resulted in very limited diversity and very low abundance of flora species along the concrete/masonry banks. For fauna species, low to moderate diversity and abundance of avifauna was recorded within the channel. Ecological value of the Shing Mun River Channel is therefore considered as low to moderate.

Table 9.24 Ecological Evaluation of Modified Watercourse (Shing Mun River Channel) within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Modified Watercourse
	Shing Mun River Channel
	Shing Mun River Channel
Naturalness	Low
Size	Moderate (21.6 ha)
Diversity	n Very low floral diversity n Very low faunal diversity
Rarity	n Typical engineered channel habitat in Hong Kong Recent Survey n Three avifauna species of conservation importance recorded Previous Study n No previous records of species of conservation importance
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Low
Ecological linkage	Hydrologically connected to Fo Tan Nullah but of very little linkage as this watercourse is located within well-developed area
Potential value	Low
Nursery / breeding ground	No records of nursery or breeding ground
Age	River training works completed in early 1980s
Abundance / Richness of wildlife	Low to moderate
Ecological value	Low to Moderate

Table 9.25 Floral and Faunal Species of Conservation Importance Recorded during Previous and Recent Ecological Surveys

Common Name (Scientific Name)	Distribution in Hong Kong ^[1]	Protection Status	Habitat Recorded
			Previous Studies ^[2]	Recent Survey
			Previous Studies ^[2]	Within Project Site	Within 500m Assessment Area
*Flora*
Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis)	Common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Category II ^[4] Vulnerable ^[5]^[6]^[^7] Near Threatened ^[8]^[9]	WL	-	WL
Aralia chinensis	Common	Vulnerable ^[5]	-	-	WL
Hong Kong Eagle's Claw (Artabotrys hongkongensis)	Restricted	-	-	-	WL
Silver-back Artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus)	Common	Vulnerable ^[5] Endangered ^[7] Near Threatened ^[8]^[9]	WL	-	WL
Butulang Canthium (Canthium dicoccum)	Common	Vulnerable ^[5]	-	-	WL
Lamb of Tartary (Cibotium barometz)	Very common	Cap. 586 ^[3] Category II ^[4] Vulnerable ^[9]	WL	-	WL
Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides)	Very common	Critically Endangered ^[5] Endangered ^[7]	WL	-	WL
Luofushan Joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense)	Very common	Near Threatened ^[5]	-	-	WL; SL
Tall Rattlesnake-plantain (Goodyera procera)	Very common	Cap. 96 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[3]	-	-	NWC
Hong Kong Pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis)	Common	Cap. 96 ^[3]	-	-	WL
Phrynium placentarium	Rare	-	-	-	WL
*Fauna*
*Avifauna*
Great Egret ^[14] (Ardea alba)	Common resident and winter visitor	Cap. 170 ^[3] PRC (RC) ^[10]	MWC	MWC; DA	DA
Chinese Pond Heron ^[14] (Ardeola bacchus)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] PRC (RC) ^[10]	MWC; DA	MWC; DA	MWC
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Class II ^[11] Vulnerable ^[12]	-	-	WL
Common Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)	Scarce but widespread resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Vulnerable ^[12]	-	-	WL
Collared Crow ^[14] (Corvus torquatus)	Uncommon resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] LC ^[10] Vulnerable ^[5] Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	MWC
Little Egret ^[14] (Egretta garzetta)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] PRC (RC) ^[10]	MWC	MWC; DA	MWC; DA
Chinese Hwamei (Garrulax canorus)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[3] Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	WL
White-throated Kingfisher ^[14] (Halcyon smyrnensis)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	MWC	-	-
Silver-eared Leiothrix (Leiothrix argentauris)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[3] Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	WL
Black Kite ^[14] (Milvus migrans)	Common resident and winter visitor	Cap. 170 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[3] (RC) ^[10] Class II ^[11]	-	-	WL
Black-crowned Night Heron ^[14] (Nycticorax nycticorax)	Common resident and winter visitor	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	MWC	MWC	-
Collared Scops Owl (Otus lettia)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[3] Class II ^[11]	-	-	WL
Grey-chinned Minivet (Pericrocotus solaris)	Common in winter, scarce in summer	Cap. 170 ^[3] LC ^[10]	WL	-	-
Pygmy Cupwing (Pnoepyga pusilla)	Rare resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] LC ^[10]	WL	-	-
Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)	Uncommon resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] Cap. 586 ^[2] (LC) ^[10] Class II ^[11] Vulnerable ^[12] Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	WL
Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps)	Common resident	Cap. 170 ^[3] LC ^[10]	WL	-	WL
*Odonate*
Chinese Yellowface (Agriomorpha fusca)	Abundant; Scattered	LC^[10]	-	-	NWC
*Amphibian*
Brown Wood Frog (Hylarana latouchii)	Widely distributed	LC ^[10]	WL	-	-
Lesser Spiny Frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa)	Occurs throughout territory	PGC ^[10] Vulnerable ^[13]	-	-	NWC
*Reptile*
Chinese Cobra (Naja atra)	Widely distributed	Cap. 586 ^[3] PRC ^[10] Vulnerable ^[5]^[13]^[16]	-	-	WL
Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus)	-	Vulnerable ^[5]	-	-	NWC
Brown Forest Skink (Sphenomorphus incognitus)	Distributed in streams in New Territories	Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	WL; NWC
*Mammal*
Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx)	Very Common	Cap. 170 ^[3] Near Threatened ^[13] Indeterminate ^[15]	-	-	DA
Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros armiger)	Very common	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	N/A	-	-
Pomona Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros Pomona)	Very common	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	N/A	-	WL
Chinese Pipistrelle (Hypsugo pulveratus)	Rare; Species of Conservation Concern	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10] Near Threatened ^[13]	-	-	WL
East Asian Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura)	Very Common	Cap. 170 ^[3] PGC ^[10]	-	-	WL
Lesser Bent-winged Bat (Miniopterus pusillus)	Uncommon	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10] Near Threatened ^[13]	N/A	-	-
Chinese Myotis (Myotis chinensis)	Uncommon	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10] Near Threatened ^[13] Vulnerable ^[15]	N/A	-	-
Chinese Noctule (Nyctalus plancyi)	Common	Cap. 170 ^[3] PRC, (RC) ^[10]	-	-	DA
Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus)	Very Common	Cap. 170 ^[3]	-	MWC	WL
Intermediate Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus affinis)	Uncommon	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	N/A	-	-
Least Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus pusillus)	Uncommon	Cap. 170 ^[3] PRC (RC) ^[10]	N/A	-	WL
Chinese Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus sinicus)	Very common	Cap. 170 ^[3]	N/A	-	WL
Leschenault's Rousette (Rousettus leschenaulti)	Common	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10]	N/A	-	-
Lesser Bamboo Bat (Tylonycteris pachypus)	Very Common	Cap. 170 ^[3] (LC) ^[10] Rare ^[15]	-	-	WL
*Freshwater Fauna*
Predaceous Chub (Parazacco spilurus)	Common. A widespread species occurring in most unpolluted hill streams in both upper and lower courses	Vulnerable ^[17]	-	NWC (FW2)	-
(Somanniathelphusa zanklon)	Considered endemic	Endangered ^[5] GC ^[10]	-	MWC (FW3)	-
Tiger Hawker (Nymph) (Polycanthagyna erythromelas)	Common; Scattered	LC ^[10]	-	-	NWC (FW1)
Notes: [1] Flora: Wu & Lee (2000), Xing, et al. (2000) and Siu (2000); Fauna: AFCD (2020a); Freshwater Fauna: Lee, et al. (2004), Dudgeon, D. (2003) and AFCD (2020a) [2] DSD (2019); AFCD (2020c). [3] Protected under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap.96) [4] Protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). [5] Protected by the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). [6] “List of Wild Plants under State Protection” (promulgated by the Ministry of Forestry in 1999). [7] IUCN (2020). IUCN Red List Version 2020.3. [8] Fu & Chin (1992). China Plant Red Data Book – Rare and Endangered Plants. [9] Qin, et al. (2017). Threatened Species List of China's Higher Plants [10] Feng, et al. (2002). Study on Rare and Endangered Plants and National Key Protected Plants in Guangdong. [11] Hu, et al. (2003). Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong. [12] Fellowes, et al. (2002): LC=Local Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern; GC=Global Concern Letters in parentheses indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in nesting and/or roosting sites rather than in general occurrence. [13] “List of Wild Animals Under State Protection” (promulgated by State Forestry Administration and Ministry of Agriculture on 14 January, 1989). [14] Zheng & Wang (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals: Aves. [15] Jiang, et al. (2016). Red List of China's Vertebrates. [16] Wetland-dependent species (including wetland-dependent species and waterbirds). [17] Wang (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Mammalia. [18] Zhao (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Amphibia and Reptilia. [19] Yue & Chan (1998). China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals. Pisces. Habitat Type: WL: Woodland; SL: Shrubland; NWC: Natural Watercourse; MWC: Modified Watercourse; DA: Developed Area/Wasteland. FW1: Freshwater sampling point 1 (Wo Sheung Tun); FW2: Freshwater sampling point 2 (Upper natural section); FW3*: Freshwater sampling point 3 (Middle channel).

9.7 Identification and Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

9.7.1.1 The main objective of this Project is revitalise the existing degraded FTN, with ecological enhancement being a key consideration for the revitalisation works. Key elements that will improve the ecological value of the nullah will include:

· Reprofiling of the low flow channel and construction of in-stream weirs to create a meandering alignment along the nullah to mimic natural stream pattern where practicable, providing a series of microhabitats for wildlife in surrounding areas;

· Provision of DWFI system to improve water quality and to support ecological enhancement;

· Introduction of general constructed wetland systems to the channel bed as greening and ecological enhancement measures, which could also be beneficial to water quality;

· Greening along the channel bed and banksides;

· Incorporation of planting designed to attract wildlife species (e.g. birds and butterflies) during revamp of public open space along Fo Tan Nullah;

· Provision of nest boxes / hunting perch for wildlife (e.g. birds) along Fo Tan Nullah;

· Installation of oyster baskets along the bottom of channel bank at the small portion of Shing Mun Main Channel within the Project site to provide habitats for intertidal species and ardeids; and

· Modification of channel bank at downstream section of Fo Tan Nullah to enhance foraging habitats for waterbirds.

9.7.1.2 As described in Section 2, major proposed works for the Project are outlined as follows:

· Channel bed modification;

· Construction of Dry Weather Flow Interceptor (DWFI) system;

· Desilting at Downstream Tidal Zone;

· Landscaping and miscellaneous works;

· Improvement of existing walkways; and

· Construction of underground water storage tank and mid-stream submersible water pumps and water pipe along the nullah for ecological enhancement associated water retention and supplement.

9.7.1.3 Construction works for the Project will be confined to developed area and modified watercourse within the Project site only. No construction works will take place at the natural watercourse habitat within Project site. In terms of potential ecological impacts during construction phase, there will be direct loss of modified watercourse and developed area within Project site by FTN enhancement works. These works would lead to temporary impacts of foraging ground for waterbirds. Whereas indirect impacts will include construction disturbance to sites and species of conservation importance.

9.7.1.4 During operational phase of the Project, no significant adverse ecological impact is expected. On the contrary, the revitalisation works are expected to have a positive impact on the existing degraded FTN.

9.7.2 Construction Phase Impact Identification

Direct Impacts

No Direct Impact on Sites of Conservation Importance or Natural Habitats

9.7.2.1 The Project site covers the existing FTN and walkways along both sides. No recognised sites of conservation importance identified within the terrestrial ecology assessment area. While a small section (130m) of natural watercourse S1, which is directly upstream of the concrete nullah at Section 6 of FTN, is located within the Project site., all construction works will be confined to boundary of developed areas/ modified watercourse within Project site, with areas of natural habitat remaining untouched. The construction works area comprises solely concrete lined channel and paved walkways.

9.7.2.2 Marine recognised sites of conservation importance within the assessment area include Kei Ling Ha Mangal SSSI, Ting Kok SSSI, and Hoi Ha Wan SSSI, all are located more than 7 km from the Project site. Given the large distances from the Project site to these sites of conservation importance and that there would be no disturbance to marine or riverbed sediments under the Project, no direct impact to these sites are anticipated.

No Direct Impact on Marine Habitats

9.7.2.3 The Project will only involve land-based construction works, therefore will have no disturbance to marine sediments. Given the distance (>2.6 km) of marine habitats from the Project site, no direct impacts upon marine habitats are anticipated.

Impact on Habitats within Project Site

9.7.2.4 Temporary loss of habitat arising from the Project only involve highly disturbed habitats comprising modified watercourse and developed area of low or low to moderate ecological value (Table 9.17 for developed area and Table 9.23 for modified watercourse). Both habitats are of low ecological value supporting low species diversity with mainly common species recorded. For natural watercourse within the Project site, no works will be conducted in the habitat and therefore no direct impacts are anticipated for the natural habitat.

9.7.2.5 Most vegetation within the Project site would be retained, particularly the mature peripheral planting along FTN. Tree felling or transplanting of small number of common ornamental species would only be required at Kwei Tei Street Garden within the Project site during construction phase (Section 12 refers). The Garden is a highly disturbed manmade habitat of low ecological value with only a small number of trees planted. Given that these losses are only temporary in nature and the habitats will be ecologically enhanced, no impacts on habitats within Project site and associated vegetation are anticipated even unmitigated.

Direct Injury / Wildlife Mortality

9.7.2.6 In addition to direct impact due to temporary habitat loss of foraging ground, construction activities could also potentially cause direct injury / mortality to wildlife. A total of four avifauna, one mammal (bat) and two freshwater species of conservation importance were recorded within the Project site. As avifauna and mammal species are highly mobile and expected to utilise the large area of alternative habitats outside the Project site, they are not anticipated to be significantly impacted. As mentioned in Section 9.7.2.1, construction works for the Project would not be conducted in the natural watercourse habitat that predaceous chub was recorded, no significant adverse impact on this species is therefore anticipated.

9.7.2.7 Fauna species with low mobility such as aquatic fauna would be subjected to higher risk of damage or mortality and could be injured or killed by construction activities. Only low diversity of common, widely cultivated or exotic freshwater fish species were recorded within the channel with low to moderate abundance, such as white-spotted rabbit fish and exotic Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). Two freshwater invertebrate species were recorded within the channel in low abundance, of which only one is of conservation importance, endemic crab species Somanniathelphusa zanklon. The crab species is known to inhabit numerous lowland watercourses with slow-flowing water and low-gradient in Hong Kong (Stanton & Leven, 2016). All distribution records were below 220m and have gone through anthropogenic influence of certain extent, i.e. modified and channelised watercourse (ibid). As the species was recorded with very low abundance at section 1, which works will only be undertaken along the banksides, no significant direct injury / mortality impact is expected on these species.

9.7.2.8 As mentioned in Section 9.5.2.1, scarce abundance of aderids were observed day roosting on trees (Chinese hackberry and Chinese banyan) in Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3 adjacent to Project site at section 1. Considering the day roosting site is located out of Project site and the trees will be retained, no direct impact of habitat loss is anticipated for ardeids. Day roosting of short-nosed fruit bat on trees (i.e. Chinese fan-palm) was also observed in Shan Mei Street Playground, which is also out of the Project site but adjacent to Project site (as mentioned in Section 9.5.2.8). Considering the day roosting site is located out of Project site and the trees will be retained, no direct impact is expected on the habitat for day roosting of short-nosed fruit bat.

Indirect Impacts

Disturbance from Construction Activities

9.7.2.9 The proposed revitalisation works would be constructed by traditional open-cut and in-situ concreting methods that mainly involve site clearance, soil excavation, sheet-piling, piling, formwork, concreting, backfilling, and reinstatement. While the works area would be restricted within the existing FTN and developed area alongside, a temporary increase in disturbance, including noise, dust emission, glare and other human activities, induced by construction at the Project site may pose indirect impacts upon nearby habitats and ecological resources.

9.7.2.10 While these impacts are of potential concern, it should be noted that:

· The Project site is in a densely urbanised district and is already subjected to high levels of disturbance from pedestrian traffic, vehicular traffic (along smaller roads, major highways and MTR) and on-going constructions [e.g. residential development (The ARLES) adjacent to Fo Tan Station]; and

· The Project site will be divided into six works sections to be constructed in sequence starting from downstream to reduce the construction impacts on nearby sensitive receivers comparing with constructing simultaneously in adjoining sections. The construction works along the nullah within each section would last for approximately 1 year and will not be undertaken at the entire section at the same time. In this way, only a small fraction of the Project site would be subject to additional disturbance impacts at any one time.

No Disturbance Impacts on Sites of Conservation Importance

9.7.2.11 No recognised sites of conservation importance were identified within the terrestrial ecology assessment area. Given the large distances from the Project site to marine sites of conservation importance, no disturbance impact on sites of conservation importance are anticipated.

Construction Noise Disturbance to Waterbirds and Bats

9.7.2.12 Construction noise disturbance could cause minor response from waterbirds like temporary displacement to less disturbed areas, depending on sensitivity of the waterbirds and level of disturbance. Waterbirds recorded along the modified watercourses are all common residents in Hong Kong, except common sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), a common passage migrant and winter visitor. Overall, only low abundance of waterbirds was recorded within the channel. As avifauna are highly mobile animals expected to utilise a larger area of the habitats instead of confining to a particular locality plus the highly disturbed surrounding area, it is unlikely to have significant adverse disturbance impacts on waterbirds.

9.7.2.13 As mentioned in Section 9.5.2.8, a mammal species of conservation importance, Japanese pipistrelle, was recorded within the Project site and day roost of short-nosed fruit bats was recorded on trees adjacent to the Project site. Disturbance impacts could cause potential behaviour of roost abandonment, avoidance of foraging areas and signal masking on bat species when interference with information transfer during echolocation is significant (CDT, 2016). However, the existing habitat is already subjected to high disturbance and no night-time construction would be carried out for the Project, which would not overlap with bat species’ foraging time. In addition, construction noise does not share the same frequency with most bat echolocation calls or their hearing, it is therefore unlikely to have significant disturbance impact on the recorded bat species (CDT, 2016) (detailed in Table 9.35).

Disturbance to Waterbirds Due to Increased Human Activities

9.7.2.14 In addition to construction noise, disturbance to waterbirds caused by construction activities could also be attributed to the increased number of people or visual stimuli associated with activities like movement of plants (Cutts et al., 2013). Since the surrounding areas of the Project site is already highly disturbed, it is unlikely to have significant disturbance impact on waterbirds due to increased human activities within the assessment area.

Artificial lighting / glare

9.7.2.15 Artificial lighting/ glare could potentially affect light sensitive / nocturnal wildlife by attracting, disorienting or disrupting their light-sensitive cycles (e.g. bats). This could consequently affect their migration, foraging and breeding success of the species and causing reduction of faunal density in the area. However, the Project site are already urbanised and surrounding developed area habitats were under high level of disturbance by artificial lighting from existing nearby industrial, residential building, roads and public facilities. Given that no night-time construction works or additional lighting would be required for the Project, and recorded nocturnal species are common and habituated to various levels of disturbance, no unexpected disturbance impacts by glare are anticipated.

Disturbance Impacts on Terrestrial Habitats, Vegetation and other Fauna

9.7.2.16 Dust generated during the construction phase (e.g. construction machinery, improper storage or dumping of construction materials) could degrade the habitats adjacent to works areas. Construction dust could cover leaves in nearby habitats and may affect photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration of the plant, which could reduce the quality of the nearby habitats (Farmer, 1993). With implementation of mitigation measures and good site practices as detailed in Section 3 to minimise potential dust impact during construction, no adverse air quality impact on nearby terrestrial habitats, vegetation and other fauna due to the Project is anticipated.

Impact on Water Quality within Watercourses

9.7.2.17 Indirect impacts on water quality of modified watercourses habitats, both within and out of the Project site, could be caused by construction works as detailed in the following sections.

Channel bed modification works

9.7.2.18 Channel bed of FTN will be modified under the Project. Such modification works include excavation of the existing concrete channel followed by re-surfacing and greening along the nullah. The proposed works could potentially impact downstream water quality and affect aquatic communities in the area, which in turn could decrease the value of these habitats to foraging avifauna. These potential impacts are considered relatively minor; aquatic communities within the Project site are of limited ecological value, and downstream sections of the FTN along with the Shing Mun River Channel are already subjected to extremely poor water quality. Moreover, according to the construction programme, channel bed modification work will only be undertaken during dry season when water is limited to low flow channel. In addition, site demarcation and flow diversion will be implemented to avoid release of sediments/other pollutants into receiving waters. As such, no unacceptable ecological impact on water quality within FTN is anticipated.

Discharge and Runoff from Land-based construction works

9.7.2.19 General construction works activities (e.g. cleaning and polishing, wheel washing, dust suppression, material storage etc.) along FTN could potentially release wastewater discharge and contaminated construction site runoff into the waters which generally consist of high concentration of suspended solids (SS) and elevated pH. Uncontrolled release of these construction waste would result in increased SS levels and turbidity in the nearby aquatic environment. The high SS level could lead to clogging of respiratory and feeding systems in aquatic organisms, while increased turbidity would reduce photosynthetic rate of aquatic plants and hinder vision of fauna in turn affecting their activities. Accidental spillage of chemicals such as engine oil, fuel and lubricants could potentially follow the uncontrolled runoff into the water, affecting the aquatic communities. These chemicals would lead to lethal (direct morality) or sublethal (reproductive retardation) impacts on aquatic organisms.

9.7.2.20 All identified natural watercourses are located in the upper catchment of FTN. Except for the downstream section of natural watercourse S1 which flows into the nullah within section 6 of FTN (approximately 130m within Project site), all other identified natural watercourses (S2 and S3) are located outside of the Project site that no adverse ecological impacts on these natural watercourses due to water quality deterioration by land-based construction works are anticipated. Although no works will be conducted within natural watercourse S1 which falls partly within the Project site, there may be potential impact of wastewater discharge and construction runoff from adjacent works area.

9.7.2.21 Endemic freshwater crab, Somanniathelphusa zanklon, was recorded within the modified watercourse at section 1 of FTN in low abundance. Apart from inhabiting a range of modified watercourses in Hong Kong as mentioned in Section 9.7.2.7 above, the species was also reported to have a high tolerance to organic pollutants (Ng & Dudgeon, 1992). As the species was recorded with very low abundance and is known to have a high tolerance to organic pollutants, the nearby modified watercourse at Shing Mun River Channel of similar habitat could act as refuge for this population. Provided that works will only be carried out along banksides of section 1 and good site practice will be implemented to ensure control on water quality with site demarcation strictly in place, no major adverse impacts due to water quality deterioration by land-based construction works are anticipated to the species.

9.7.2.22 With the implementation of appropriate measures to control runoff from construction site, as well as adoption of good site practices for handling and disposal of construction discharges (refer to Section 5), unacceptable impacts on water quality of FTN and nearby natural watercourse (S1) are not expected. Therefore, ecological impacts arising from water quality deterioration by land-based construction works of the Project are not anticipated.

9.7.3 Operational Phase Impact identification

Direct Impact

9.7.3.1 During operational phase of the Project, similar to the existing maintenance practices at FTN, regular maintenance desilting works along the nullah would be carried out by the DSD to remove excessive silts, debris and any obstructions to safeguard the hydraulic capacity of the nullah. Maintenance desilting of the nullah would tentatively be carried out on an annual basis during dry season (November to March) when the water flow is low, except during emergency situations where the accumulated silt would adversely affect the hydraulic capacity of the nullah or where flooding risk is imminent, or when complaints on environmental nuisance associated with the accumulated silt are received. These works could potentially have direct impact on the modified watercourse and water quality. However, given that desilting works are already undertaken regularly during the baseline condition and would be temporary in small scale, no unacceptable direct ecological impacts are anticipated.

Indirect Impact

Potential Beneficial Impact from Water Quality Improvement

9.7.3.2 Under operation of the Project, DWFI installed along FTN will intercept most of the drainage branches with poor water quality to Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works for treatment, reducing level of pollutants (e.g. SS, BOD, total phosphorus, total nitrogen) directly discharged to FTN. Freshwater input into FTN will be of improved water quality, benefiting flora and fauna utilising the modified watercourse, as well as local communities in the area.

Potential Beneficial Impact due to Ecological Enhancement

9.7.3.3 The Project will create wetland habitats and install ecological enhancement features within the FTN to improve aquatic habitats as compared to the baseline condition. The riverbed will be planted with various types of riparian and wetland plants while the river embankment will be covered by climbers. As such, operation of the Project will not cause any unacceptable disturbance impacts upon fauna in surrounding habitats. The Project will in fact result in positive impacts on fauna in the area by providing additional, suitable habitats in the modified watercourses in long term.

Potential Water Quality Impacts from Maintenance Works and Desilting Works

9.7.3.4 In addition to routine maintenance desilting tentatively be carried on an annual basis during dry season as detailed in Section 9.7.3.1, similar to the existing practices, regular maintenance works for the drainage and sewerage systems along FTN, including maintenance to the DWFI system installed along sections 2 (part) to 5 of FTN (Figure 2.2 refers), would also be carried out by the DSD to safeguard the hydraulic capacity of the nullah during operation of the Project. The maintenance practices and frequency would be similar to the existing maintenance works undertaken by the DSD. The minor maintenance to the DWFI system will only be undertaken on an as-needed basis and frequent maintenance (i.e. monthly) will not be required. Diversion of the dry weather flow to the nearby sewerage system can be adopted during maintenance of DWFI system so that the water quality at FTN would not be adversely affected. The maintenance / desilting would be carried out by hand-held or light machinery during low tide. The maintenance desilting could potentially increase SS levels in water due to disturbance to nullah bed. Disturbance impacts caused by these works are expected to be temporary and only affect the works area of small scale with no unacceptable impacts on water quality with proper design of site drainage and implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for storm water discharge as detailed in Section 5. As such, no unacceptable indirect ecological impacts are anticipated.

Disturbance to Species of Conservation Importance

9.7.3.5 During maintenance works for the DWFI system, there will be potential disturbances to avifauna and freshwater species of conservation importance (i.e. ardeids and Somanniathelphusa zanklon). Both ardeids and Somanniathelphusa zanklon were mainly recorded in section 1, maintenance works such as desilting may disturb both fauna species and prevent them from using the habitat. However, the maintenance works would be small scale, temporary and infrequent as described in Section 9.7.3.4. Given that there are existing regular maintenance works and the high level of human disturbance along the nullah, ardeids in the area are relatively disturbance-tolerant, Somanniathelphusa zanklon has high tolerance to organic pollutants (as discussed in Section 9.7.2.21), no unacceptable impacts from maintenance works on species of conservation importance are anticipated.

Potential Changes in Hydrodynamics Properties and Hydrology

9.7.3.6 During operation of the Project, DWFI system will be in place along the nullah to convey drainage branches to Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works for treatment, leading to reduced flowrate and amount of freshwater input into FTN and downstream receiving water (Shing Mun River Main Channel). Due to the natural sloping gradient along FTN and wetland habitats created within the modified watercourse, average flow rate will remain similar to baseline condition while supporting the created habitats. Therefore, such reduction in freshwater input resulting from Project operation is not likely to cause impacts to fauna species utilising it and thus no unacceptable impacts on hydrodynamics properties and hydrology are anticipated. In addition, as all natural watercourses identified within the assessment area are located at the upper catchment of FTN, no changes in hydrodynamic properties or hydrology are anticipated for the watercourses and associated riparian habitats during operational phase of the Project.

9.7.4 Evaluation of Ecological Impact

9.7.4.1 Potential ecological impacts on the identified habitats within the assessment area associated with the construction and operation of the Project have been evaluated in accordance with the Annex 8 of the EIAO-TM as given in Table 9.26 to Table 9.34. Evaluation of potential major ecological impact to the species of conservation importance has been evaluated in Table 9.35.

Developed Area / Wasteland

9.7.4.2 The main impact to developed area / wasteland arising from the Project is temporary loss of approximately 4.2 ha of habitats in the Project site. Developed area within the assessment area is subjected to existing high level of disturbance from nearby road system, transportation infrastructure, residential and industrial areas, indirect impacts to this habitat from construction activities are thus insignificant. Considering the existing low ecological value of the habitat, temporary loss of habitats is anticipated to result in Minor ecological impacts.

9.7.4.3 Disturbance impacts to developed areas adjacent to the Project site are also considered minor. Although avifauna and mammal (bat) species of conservation importance were recorded from developed areas, these species were in low abundance, highly mobile and already habituated to high levels of disturbance.

Table 9.26 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Developed Area / Wasteland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Developed Area / Wasteland
Habitat quality	Low
Species	n Low floral and faunal diversity were recorded within the Project site n Moderate to high floral diversity and low to moderate faunal diversity were recorded within assessment area outside the Project site n Three avifauna and two mammal of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and one avifauna species of conservation importance recorded previously
Size / Abundance	n Direct impact to ~4.2 ha of developed area due to excavation of existing channel bed and construction works for re-surfacing and greening within FTN n Indirect impact to developed areas outside the Project site due to disturbance and increased human activities
Duration	n Construction phase temporary loss of ~4.2 ha of developed area/wasteland habitat and indirect impacts due to increased disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase positive ecological impacts due to ecological enhancement and improved water quality would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase temporary habitat loss of developed area / wasteland and indirect impacts due to increased disturbance and human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Low
Overall impact evaluation	Minor

Village / Orchard

9.7.4.4 Village / Orchard would experience no direct impacts and minor levels of indirect impacts due to disturbance and increase in human activities arising from the Project. Considering the large distance between majority of village/orchard and the Project site, impacts on village / orchard habitat resulting from the Project are anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.27 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Village / Orchard within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Village / Orchard
Habitat quality	Low
Species	n Low to moderate floral and very low faunal diversity n No species of conservation importance recorded from both recent survey and previous records
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities only expected to affect very small portion of village/orchard within the assessment area
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Negligible, given large distance between majority of village/orchard habitat and the Project site
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible

Plantation

9.7.4.5 Plantation would experience no direct impact and minor indirect impact due to disturbance and increase in human activities arising from the Project. Considering the large distance between majority of the plantation and the Project site and no dust impacts are anticipated (as detailed in Section 9.7.2.16), impacts on plantation habitat resulting from the Project are anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.28 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Plantation within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Plantation
Habitat quality	Low
Species	n Low to moderate floral and low faunal diversity n No species of conservation importance recorded from both recent survey and previous records
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected. n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities only expected to affect very small portion of plantation within the assessment area
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Negligible, given large distance between majority of plantation habitat and the Project site
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible

Shrubland

9.7.4.6 Shrubland would experience no direct impact and negligible level of indirect impact due to disturbance and increase in human activities arising from the Project. Considering the large distance between shrubland and the Project site, impacts to shrubland habitat resulting from the Project are anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.29 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Shrubland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Shrubland
Habitat quality	Low to moderate
Species	n Low floral and very low faunal diversity n One flora species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Negligible, given large distance between shrubland habitat and the Project site
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible

Woodland

9.7.4.7 Woodland would experience no direct impacts and minor indirect impacts due to disturbance and increase in human activities arising from the Project. Considering the large distance between majority of woodland and the Project site and no dust impacts are anticipated (as detailed in Section 9.7.2.16), impacts on woodland habitat resulting from the Project are anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.30 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Woodland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Woodland
Habitat quality	Moderate to high
Species	n Moderate to high floral diversity and moderate faunal diversity n Nine flora, eight avifauna, two reptile and seven mammal species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and four flora, three avifauna and one amphibian species of conservation importance recorded previously
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities only expected to affect very small portion of woodland within the assessment area
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Negligible, given large distance between majority of woodland habitat and the Project site
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible

Natural Watercourse

9.7.4.8 Two natural watercourses (S1 and S2) are located upstream of FTN with small section of S1 (130m) within the proposed Project site. While S3 is located at the southwest of assessment area along Wong Chuk Yeung Street. As no construction works will be conducted within natural watercourse in the Project site, no direct impacts are anticipated by the Project on natural watercourse habitat.

9.7.4.9 Indirect impact from the Project on natural watercourse would arise from surface runoff, disturbance and increased human activities from construction activities. Given the geographically upstream location of the natural watercourses (S1 and S2) and distance from works area (S3), no indirect ecological impact from the Project by surface runoff would be expected on the habitat. As discussed in Section 9.7.2.22, the small section of S1 located within the Project site is not expected to subject to adverse water quality impact from land-based construction with the implementation of appropriate measures (refer to Section 5). Therefore, indirect impact on all natural watercourses by the Project is anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.31 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Natural Watercourse within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Natural Watercourse
Evaluation Criteria	S1		S2		S3
Habitat quality	Moderate		Moderate		Low to Moderate
Species	n Low to moderate floral and faunal diversity
Species	n One reptile, one amphibian and one freshwater species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously	n One flora and one odonate species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously		n Two reptile species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to site runoff, disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Negligible		Negligible		Negligible
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible		Negligible		Negligible

Modified Watercourse

9.7.4.10 The main impact to modified watercourse by the Project is temporary habitat loss due to modification of channel bed and construction of water quality treatment elements within the Project site. These impacts are considered minor along most sections of the channel due to existing poor habitat quality.

9.7.4.11 Indirect impact from the Project on FTN would arise from surface runoff, disturbance and increased human activities from construction activities. As works would be restricted to smaller sections of the channel (approximately 200m in length), the area of FTN subject to disturbance impacts at any one time would be relatively small. Although there is a freshwater species of conservation importance Somanniathelphusa zanklon recorded in section 1, it is highly tolerant to contaminants as discussed in Section 9.7.2.21, only Minor indirect impact is expected. Given that the overall affected habitats of FTN would be of relatively low ecological value, indirect impacts are considered relatively Minor in scale.

Table 9.32 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Modified Watercourse (Fo Tan Nullah) within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Modified Watercourse (Fo Tan Nullah)
Evaluation Criteria	Sections 1 and 2	Sections 3 and 4	Sections 5 and 6
Habitat quality	Low to Moderate	Low	Low
Species	n Low floral and low faunal diversity of avifauna and freshwater communities but very low diversity of other fauna
Species	n Four avifauna and one freshwater species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and five avifauna species of conservation importance recorded previously	n One mammal species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously	n No species of conservation importance recorded from both recent survey and previous records
Size / Abundance	n Direct impact to ~3.0 ha of modified watercourse within Project site in temporary nature due to modification (excavation, re-surfacing and greening) works of channel bed and construction of water quality treatment elements n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities within Project site
Duration	n Construction phase temporary loss of ~3.0 ha of modified watercourse and indirect impacts due to site runoff, disturbance and increased human activities of temporary nature n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase temporary habitat loss and indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Low	Low	Low
Overall impact evaluation	Minor	Minor	Minor

9.7.4.12 Modified watercourse of Shing Mun River Channel is located out of the Project site. With appropriate measures and good site practices in place to control runoff and disposal of construction discharges, release of sediment and pollutants into receiving waters have been avoided. As the habitat only supports very low species diversity, indirect disturbance impact on Shing Mun River Channel by the Project is anticipated to be Minor.

Table 9.33 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Modified Watercourse (Shing Mun River Channel) within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Modified Watercourse (Shing Mun River Channel)
Habitat quality	Low to Moderate
Species	n Very low floral and faunal diversity n Three avifauna species of conservation importance recorded from recent survey and no species of conservation importance recorded previously
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impact due to disturbance and increased human activities outside of Project site
Duration	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to site runoff, disturbance and increased human activities would be temporary n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be permanent
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be reversible n Operational phase indirect impacts due to disturbance and increased human activities would be irreversible
Magnitude	Low
Overall impact evaluation	Minor

Subtidal Hard Substrate, Soft Bottom and Intertidal Habitat

9.7.4.13 The Project only involves land-based construction works; no direct loss of marine habitat is expected. Considering the large distance between Project site and the marine habitats, indirect impacts to marine habitats resulting from the Project are anticipated to be Negligible.

Table 9.34 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Marine Subtidal Hard Substrate, Soft Bottom and Intertidal Habitats within the Marine Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Marine Habitat
Evaluation Criteria	Subtidal Hard Substrate Habitat	Soft Bottom Habitat	Intertidal Habitats
Habitat quality	Low	Low	Low
Species	n Two coral species of conservation importance recorded at low abundance	n No species of conservation importance were recorded	n No species of conservation importance were recorded
Size / Abundance	n Habitat would not be directly affected n Indirect impact due to sewage effluent, site runoff, and effluent bypass
Duration	n Construction phase indirect water quality impacts due to sewage effluent, site runoff, and effluent bypass would be temporary.
Reversibility	n Construction phase indirect water quality impacts due to site runoff would be temporary
Magnitude	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
Overall impact evaluation	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible

Species of Conservation Importance

9.7.4.14 Potentially significant impacts to species of conservation importance recorded within the assessment area are described in above sections. A summary and evaluation of potential impacts from construction and operational phases of the Project on all species of conservation importance recorded within the assessment area is presented in Table 9.35.

Species of Conservation Importance Recorded	Description of Construction and Operational Phase Impacts	Impact Evaluation
*FLORA*
Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis) Aralia chinensis Hong Kong Eagle's Claw (Artabotrys hongkongensis) Silver-back Artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus) Butulang Canthium (Canthium dicoccum) Lamb of Tartary (Cibotium barometz) Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides) Luofushan Joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense) Tall Rattlesnake-plantain (Goodyera procera) Hong Kong Pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis) Phrynium placentarium All recorded out of Project site.	As all floral species of conservation importance was recorded out of Project site, no impacts are expected.	No impact
*FAUNA*
*Avifauna*
Ardeids: Great Egret (Ardea alba) Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) Four ardeids species were recorded along section 1 and 2 of FTN. Three were recorded day-roosting on trees in Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3 adjacent to section 1, including great egret, Chinse pond heron and little egret.	Construction phase Direct loss of habitat (modified watercourse) would be temporary and given that there is other foraging ground along the Shing Mun River Channel , Minor impact on ardeids is expected. As no works will take place in the Playground/ Garden and all existing trees will be retained, no direct loss of day roosting habitat is anticipated. Construction noise may disturb ardeids from utilising habitat for day roosting and foraging. Given that surrounding area of the Project site is already highly disturbed by human activities and the temporary nature of construction disturbance is temporary, impacts of construction disturbance on the ardeids are expected to be Minor if unmitigated.	Minor
	Operational phase No unacceptable indirect ecological impacts are anticipated from maintenance / desilting works as it is a regular practice in the existing condition, it is also expected to be temporary and in small scale. Positive impact would be resulted from operation of the Project as wetland habitat will be enhanced and created within FTN with ecological enhancement measures provided.	Negligible
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) Common Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica) Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus) Chinese Hwamei (Garrulax canorus) White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) Silver-eared Leiothrix (Leiothrix argentauris) Black Kite (Milvus migrans) Collared Scops Owl (Otus lettia) Grey-chinned Minivet (Pericrocotus solaris) Pygmy Cupwing (Pnoepyga pusilla) Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps) All either recorded in flight or out of Project site.	As these species were all either recorded in flight or out of Project site, no impact is expected. Positive impact would be resulted from operation of the Project for some of the wetland dependent species (i.e. collared crow) as wetland habitat will be enhanced and created within FTN with ecological enhancement measures provided.	No impact
Odonate
Chinese Yellowface (Agriomorpha fusca) All recorded out of Project site.	As these species were recorded out of Project site, no impact is expected.	No impact
Herpetofauna
Brown Wood Frog (Hylarana latouchii) Lesser Spiny Frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa) Chinese Cobra (Naja atra) Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus) Brown Forest Skink (Sphenomorphus incognitus) All recorded out of Project site.	As these species were recorded out of Project site, no impact is expected.	No impact
Mammal
Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx) Low abundance of Short-nosed Fruit Bat was recorded day roosting on trees in Shan Mei Street Playground out of Project site.	Construction phase Considering that the day roost locations are located adjacent to highly disturbed areas (industrial area) and no works will take place in the Playground, no significant ecological impact is anticipated for the species.	Negligible
	Operational phase No impact	No impact
Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) Low abundance of this bat species was recorded within the modified watercourse habitat within Project site (section 3 of FTN).	Construction phase No adverse disturbance impacts are expected as it is unlikely to be their key habitat and there are other habitats nearby for the highly mobile species.	Negligible
	Operational phase No impact	No impact
Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros armiger) Pomona Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros Pomona) Chinese Pipistrelle (Hypsugo pulveratus) East Asian Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) Lesser Bent-winged Bat (Miniopterus pusillus) Chinese Myotis (Myotis chinensis) Chinese Noctule (Nyctalus plancyi) Intermediate Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus affinis) Least Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus pusillus) Chinese Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus sinicus) Leschenault's Rousette (Rousettus leschenaulti) Lesser Bamboo Bat (Tylonycteris pachypus) All recorded out of Project site.	As these species were recorded out of the Project site, no impact is expected.	No impact
Freshwater communities
Predaceous Chub (Parazacco spilurus) Low abundance of Predaceous Chub was recorded in natural watercourse S1 near Chun Yeung Estate within the Project site.	Construction phase No direct impact (i.e. habitat loss) is anticipated for the freshwater fish species as no works will be carried out in the natural watercourse section within Project site. Land-based construction runoff and accidental spillage of chemicals may lead to lethal (direct morality) or sublethal (reproductive retardation) impacts on aquatic organisms. No adverse impacts on the species are expected with the implementation of appropriate measures to control runoff from construction site, as well as adoption of good site practices for handling and disposal of construction discharges (refer to Section 5).	Negligible
	Operational phase No impact	No impact
Somanniathelphusa zanklon Low abundance of the endemic crab species Somanniathelphusa zanklon was recorded in section 1 of FTN.	Construction phase No direct loss of habitat is anticipated for the species as works will only be undertaken along bankside of section 1. Given that nearby modified watercourse at Shing Mun River Channel of similar habitat could act as refuge for this population, no significant direct injury / mortality impact is expected on this species. Land-based construction runoff and accidental spillage of chemicals may lead to lethal (direct morality) or sublethal (reproductive retardation) impacts on aquatic organisms. No adverse impacts on the species are expected with the implementation of appropriate measures to control runoff from construction site, as well as adoption of good site practices for handling and disposal of construction discharges (refer to Section 5).	Negligible
	Operational phase No unacceptable direct and indirect ecological impacts are anticipated from maintenance / desilting works as this species is known to be highly tolerate to organic pollutants and could utilise nearby modified watercourse habitats instead of confining to a particular locality. In addition, maintenance / desilting is a regular practice in the existing condition, and is expected to be temporary and in small scale, thus no significant adverse impact on this species due to maintenance / desilting works is anticipated.	Negligible
Tiger Hawker (Nymph) (Polycanthagyna erythromelas) All recorded out of Project site.	As this species was recorded out of Project site, no impact is expected.	No impact

9 ECOLOGical impact (TERRESTRIAL AND MARINE)

9.1 Introduction

9.2 Environmental Legislations, Standards and Guidelines

9.2.1.1 This assessment makes reference to the following Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government ordinances, regulations, standards, guidelines, and documents that are relevant to ecological impact assessment:

9.2.1.2 This section also makes reference to the following international conventions and national legislation:

9.3 Assessment Methodology

9.3.1 Assessment Area

9.3.2 Literature Review

9.3.2.1 The ecological characteristics of the assessment area were identified through a comprehensive review of the available literature. This review collated ecological information from various reports and publications, as summarised in Table 9.1.

9.3.3 Ecological Survey Methodology

9.3.3.3 A habitat map showing the types and locations of terrestrial habitats within the assessment area was prepared with reference to aerial photographs obtained from Lands Department (LandsD) and ground-truthing.

9.3.3.16 Abundance, biomass, species diversity H’ and evenness J were calculated for pooled data, using the formulae:

H’ = - ∑ ( Ni / N ) ln ( Ni / N ) ; and

J = H’ / ln S

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

9.3.3.17 Surveys on intertidal communities were conducted at representative survey locations (refer to Figure 9.2) by line transect method, in order to establish an ecological profile of intertidal habitats within the assessment area.

9.4 Baseline Conditions

9.4.1 Site of Conservation Importance

9.4.1.1 There are no recognised sites of conservation importance identified within the terrestrial ecology assessment area. The nearest sites of conservation importance is:

9.4.1.2 While there are some recognized sites of marine conservation importance within the marine ecology assessment area, all are relatively distant from the Project site:

9.4.2 Literature Review

9.4.2.2 A total of 33 avifauna species were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study, eight of which are of conservation importance (Table 9.4).

9.4.2.4 Four dragonfly species were recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study. All of the recorded species are widely distributed in Hong Kong, while none of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

9.4.2.5 The Revitalisation Study reported three reptile species within the current assessment area. None of the recorded species are of conservation importance.

9.4.2.6 Four species of amphibians were previously recorded within the current assessment area from the Revitalisation Study. One species of conservation importance was recorded within the assessment area (Table 9.5).

9.4.2.11 In the Drainage Improvement in Sha Tin and Tai Po – EIA Report (DSD, 2007), a subtidal survey was undertaken off the shore of Shuen Wan. No colonies of either hard or soft corals were recorded.

9.4.2.12 Coral communities had been recorded at Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park and Port Island at the outfall of the Tolo Channel just on the eastern edge of the Tolo Harbour and Channel WCZ (AFCD, 2004). These coral communities are located more than 11.1 km northeast of the Project site.

9.4.2.19 Intertidal surveys were conducted along the artificial shoreline of STSTW and Ma On Shan during the Development of the Sha Tin Cavern EIA Study. A total of 31 species were recorded at the five sampling locations. No intertidal species of conservation importance was recorded.

9.5 Survey Findings

9.5.1 Habitat and Vegetation

9.5.2 Terrestrial Fauna

9.5.2.7 Calls of lesser spiny frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa) were also recorded in natural watercourse S1.

9.5.2.10 An individual of East Asian porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) was recorded on the fringe of woodland habitat along pedestrian footpath.

9.5.3 Marine Fauna

9.5.3.4 No particular dominance was observed during dry and wet season at B1 while B2 was devoid of benthic fauna. At sampling location B1, lower Shannon Diversity Index (H’) and higher Pielou’s Evenness Index (J) were observed in dry season when compared with wet season (refer to Table 9.16).

9.6 Ecological Value

9.7 Identification and Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

9.7.1.1 The main objective of this Project is revitalise the existing degraded FTN, with ecological enhancement being a key consideration for the revitalisation works. Key elements that will improve the ecological value of the nullah will include:

9.7.1.2 As described in Section 2, major proposed works for the Project are outlined as follows:

9.7.1.4 During operational phase of the Project, no significant adverse ecological impact is expected. On the contrary, the revitalisation works are expected to have a positive impact on the existing degraded FTN.

9.7.2 Construction Phase Impact Identification

9.7.2.3 The Project will only involve land-based construction works, therefore will have no disturbance to marine sediments. Given the distance (>2.6 km) of marine habitats from the Project site, no direct impacts upon marine habitats are anticipated.

9.7.2.10 While these impacts are of potential concern, it should be noted that:

9.7.2.11 No recognised sites of conservation importance were identified within the terrestrial ecology assessment area. Given the large distances from the Project site to marine sites of conservation importance, no disturbance impact on sites of conservation importance are anticipated.

9.7.2.17 Indirect impacts on water quality of modified watercourses habitats, both within and out of the Project site, could be caused by construction works as detailed in the following sections.

9.7.3 Operational Phase Impact identification

Indirect Impact

9.7.4 Evaluation of Ecological Impact

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.