Oil_and_Gas_Environmental_Monitoring_Plan_2012.pdf

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

THE ENVIRONMENTAL

MONITORING PLAN

FOR THE ALBERTINE GRABEN

2012-2017

National Environment Management AuthorityE N S U

R ING

SU STA INABL E DEVE

LO

PM

E N Ty

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

for a living planet*

THE ENVIRONMENTAL

MONITORING PLAN

FOR THE ALBERTINE GRABEN

2012 - 2017

ROYAL NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT

NORWEGIAN DIRECTORATE

FOR NATURE MANAGEMENT

Copyright © 2012 NEMA All rights reserved.

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (NEMA)

P.O. Box 22255 Kampala Uganda h�p://www.nemaug.org info@nemaug.org

AUTHORS AND CONTRIBUTORS

Erima Godwin - Makerere University Ins�tute of Environment and Natural Resources

(MUIENR)

Namakambo Norah - Wetlands Management Department (WMD) John Diisi - Na�onal Forestry Authority (NFA) Dr. Grace Nangendo - Wildlife Conserva�on Society (WCS) Kaganzi Emmanuel - Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD) Dr. Joseph Kobusheshe - Petroleum Explora�on and Produc�on Department (PEPD) Mwebaza Caroline - Directorate of Water Resources Management (DWRM) Bakunda Aven�no - Fisheries Department (DFR) Dr. C. Kayuki Kaizzi - Na�onal Agricultural Research Laboratories (NARL-Kawanda) Geoge Lubega - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Muramira Telly Eugene - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Byaruhanga Jane M. - Petroleum Explora�on and Produc�on Department (PEPD) Mpabulungi Firipo - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Dr. Stephen Sekiranda - Na�onal Fisheries Resources Research Ins�tute (NARO - NAFIRRI) Fred Onyai - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Dr. Kitutu Mary Gore� - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Nengomasha Neto - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Rannveig Formo - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Robert Ddamulira - World Wide Fund (WWF) Jus�ne Namara - Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Kato Phillip - Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Flavia Oumo - Uganda Bureau of Sta�s�cs (UBOS) Ingunn Limstrand - Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management (DN) Ragnvald Larsen - Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management (DN) Reidar Hindrum - Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management (DN) Jørn Thomassen - Norwegian Ins�tute for Nature Research (NINA)

Design, layout and print produc�on Elizabeth Mutayanjulwa (NEMA)

Cover page photograph Oil explora�on in the Alber�ne Graben

ISBN

ACRONYMS....�

FOREWORD...�

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY..................................................................................................................v

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

1.1 Overall Goal and Objec�ves of the Alber�ne Graben Environmental Monitoring Plan

1.2 Scope of the Alber�ne Graben Environmental Monitoring Plan

CHAPTER 2: THE ALBERTINE GRABEN

2.1 Environmental Status of the Alber�ne Graben

Physical Environment Mineral Resources Ecosystems and Biodiversity Biodiversity

2.2 Land use and social-Economic Status

2.3 Status and projec�on of Oil and Gas ac�vi�es in the Alber�ne Graben

2.4 Expected infrastructural developments

CHAPTER 3: SELECTING VALUED ECOSYSTEM COMPONENTS, INDICATORS,

AND PARAMETERS

3.1 Process of iden�fying and selec�ng Components, Indicators and Parameters

3.1.1 Background paper and workshop process

3.1.2 Workshop process

3.1.3 Scoping process

3.2 Criteria for selec�ng parameters and indicators

Environmental Monitoring Indicators

CHAPTER 4: VALUED ECOSYSTEM COMPONENTS, INDICATORS AND PARAMETERS

4.1 Monitoring Objec�ves

4.2 Valued Ecosystem Components

4.3 Summary of iden�fied Priority VECs

4.4 Effects of oil development ac�vi�es on the ecosystem

4.5 Drivers

4.6 Priority Indicators and Parameters

CHAPTER 5: DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

5.1 Aqua�c Biodiversity

5.1.1 Basis for monitoring/jus�fica�on and indicators

5.2 Terestrial Biodiversity

5.2.1 Animals (Mammals, birds, below ground biodiversity)

5.2.1.1 Basis for monitoring

5.2.1.2 Sampling design and data collec�on

5.2.3 Data analysis

5.3 Physical – Chemical Environment

5.4 Society

5.5 Management and Business

5.5.1 Tourism

i The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Contents

CHAPTER 6: DATA MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

6.1 Data Management Objec�ves for the AG EMP

6.2 Purpose of Data Management

6.3 Informa�on Technology Infrastructure for Data Management

6.4 Data Storage

6.5 Data Policy

6.5.1 Ownership and custodianship

6.5.2 EIN – Guidelines for sharing environmental data

6.6 Data Release Code

6.7 Data and Metadata Standards

CHAPTER 7: REPORTING

7.1 Audiences

7.2 Types of Repor�ng

7.3 Repor�ng Results

7.3.1 State of the Alber�ne Graben Environment Report

7.3.2 Status of VECs

7.3.3 Independent Review

7.3.4 Scien�fic Publica�ons

7.3.5 Performance Reports and Work plans

7.3.6 Various summaries and other communica�on material

CHAPTER 8: ADMINISTRATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAM

8.1 Governing Structure

8.2 Program Review

8.3 Implementa�on Schedule and Budget

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Status of Licensing in the Alber�ne Graben Figure 2: Bathymetry M� Figure 3: Species R� Figure 4: Uganda Seismic Line Coverage Figure 5: Na�onal Parks and Wildlife Reserves in the Alber�ne Graben Figure 6: Clearing House Mechanism for Environmental Data Figure 7: A simplified overview of the steps in accessing, integra�ng, analyzing and presen�ng biodiversity informa�on via a web-based data portal Figure 8: Use of Geoserver and open layers combined with the Alber�ne Graben Atlas data Figure 9: Alber�ne Graben: Threatened Bird Species

LIST OF TABLES AND BOXES

Box 1: SMART Indicators� Table 4.1: Summary of VECs and Drivers Iden�fied Table 4.2: Iden�fied Drivers Table 4.3: Priority VECs and Combined Drivers Table 4.4: Value Ecosystem Components Drivers Table 7.1: Types of Repor�ng Table 7.2: Timeliness of Repor�ng Table 8.1: Performance Measures for determining if the Plan’s objec�ves are met

APPENDIXES...�

Appendix 1: Budget for the implementa�on of the AG Environmental Monitoring Plan Appendix 2: Budget for data management and dissemina�on Appendix 3: Budget for the Sensi�vity Atlas Appendix 4: Exis�ng databases, storage and future responsible ins�tu�ons data collec�on management..82 Appendix 5: Sensi�vity Atlas Standard Guidelines for maps Appendix 6: Metadata Structure

REFERENCES...�

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 ii

AEAM - Adap�ve Environmental Assessment and Management AG EMP - Alber�ne Graben Environmental Monitoring Plan a.m.s.l - above mean sea level BGBD - Below Ground Biodiversity CAS - Catch Assessment Survey CDP - Community Development Department CSOs - Civil Society Organisa�ons DFR - Directorate of Fisheries Resources DLG - Department of Local Government DN - Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management DOM - Department Of Meteorology DOOH - Department of Occupa�onal Health DWRM - Directorate of Water Resources Management EA - Explora�on Area EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EIN - Environment Informa�on Network EPT - Ephemeroptera -Plecoptera -Trichoptera FAO - Food and Agriculture Organiza�on of the United Na�ons GIS - Geographic Informa�on System GPS - Global Posi�oning System IEC - Informa�on Educa�on Communica�on IH - Impact Hypotheses IPP - Integrated Power Project IUCN - Interna�onal Union for Conserva�on of Nature MAAIF - Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries MCS - Monitoring Control and Surveillance MEMD - Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development MoGLSD - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development MIST - Management Informa�on System Technology MLHUD - Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development M&E - Monitoring and Evalua�on M&R - Monitoring & Research MoES - Ministry of Educa�on and Sports MoH - Ministry of Health MoTWC - Ministry of Transport, Works and Communica�on MoU - Memorandum of Understanding MTWH - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage MUIENR - Makerere University Ins�tute of Environment and Natural Resources MWE - Ministry of Water and Environment NaFIRRI - Na�onal Fisheries Resources Research Ins�tute NP - Na�onal Park NARL - Na�onal Agricultural Research Laboratories NEA - Na�onal Environment Act NEMA - Na�onal Environment Management Authority NFA - Na�onal Forestry Authority NINA - Norwegian Ins�tute for Nature Research NGO - Non-Governmental Organiza�on OfD - Oil for Development OSH - Occupa�onal Safety and Health PEPD - Petroleum Explora�on and Produc�on Department PHCs - Polychlorinated Hydrocarbons RBDC - Ranger Based Data Collec�on RU - Reserva�on Unit TWA - Time Weighted Average UTM - Universal Transverse Mercator UWA - Uganda Wildlife Authority VECs - Valued Ecosystem Components WHO - World Health Organiza�on WMD - Wetlands Management Department WWF - World Wide Fund list of acronyms iii The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 foreword

The Alber�ne Graben region in western Uganda is widely known for its richness in both flora and fauna, and over the last decade it has also received much a�en�on for its deposits of oil and gas as well as the explora�on of these resources. The oil and gas that are being rapidly explored engages many stakeholders and it is expected that when the extrac�on of these resources begins, it will have great economic impact on the country. Concurrently, it is also expected that developments in the region will have a las�ng impact on the unique environment of the Alber�ne Graben. It is against this background that the Na�onal Environment Management Authority in partnership with other stakeholders from the Environmental Informa�on Network has worked towards producing an Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Alber�ne Graben (AG EMP).

The AG EMP is intended as a guiding tool in tracking the impact which oil and gas-related developments will have on the environment of the Alber�ne Graben. As such, the monitoring plan lists a number of environmental monitoring indicators that will be used to monitor a defined list of five major Valued Ecosystem Components, including: aqua�c, terrestrial, physical/chemical, society, and management & business. Over �me, the monitoring indicators will demonstrate progress and changes in the ecosystem components, signaling when environmental management in the petroleum sector is on track, or giving early warnings for when developments are heading in the wrong direc�on.

Furthermore, the AG EMP gives a detailed summary of the current state of the environment in the Alber�ne Graben, the possible effects which oil and gas developments may have on species such as fish, mammals, amphibians and birds, and other environmental components including water and air quality. Major poten�al drivers of change iden�fied in the report include noise and vibra�ons, waste disposal, seismic ac�vi�es and an influx in traffic, people and subsequent urban expansions.

In face of the rapid changes in the Alber�ne Graben, protec�ng its environment is of urgent importance, and the Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and partners feel pleased to publish this environmental monitoring plan.

We believe that this report will be used as a tool for monitoring any changes in the environment before, during and a�er the extrac�on of oil and gas in the Alber�ne Graben when used by all stakeholders, academicians and researchers. When used appropriately, it is hoped that the impact of the monitoring plan will be shown in terms of regular monitoring reports and subsequent early warnings of any nega�ve changes in the environment.

Dr. Tom O. Okurut

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (NEMA)

Dr. Tom O. Okurut

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 iv

This report provides a blueprint of an environmental monitoring plan that will ensure sustainable exploita�on and u�liza�on the petroleum resources discovered in the Alber�ne Graben. The report notes that oil and gas ac�vi�es in this area, which is known for its high biodiversity richness and diversity, must not ignore the vast biological resources.

It gives a number of selected parameters and indicators that should be used in monitoring environmental changes caused by oil and gas ac�vi�es. The core message of this report is that oil and gas ac�vi�es may have adverse environmental and social effects if not well managed.

The report provides insight and early warning to policy makers and other stakeholders on environmental changes that may arise as a result of oil and gas ac�vi�es.

The report is divided into eight chapters:

Chapter 1, Introduc�on and Background provides the scope and background informa�on to the Alber�ne Graben.

Chapter 2, Environmental Status of the Alber�ne Graben gives an overview of the social and environmental condi�ons of the explora�on areas. It summarizes the clima�c condi�ons that prevail in the Graben and highlights the mineral deposits found in this area. The chapter then presents some of the core conserva�on concerns in the region, focusing on species richness and those classified as endangered or threatened. Lastly, the chapter looks at the sensi�vity of biodiversity to oil and gas ac�vi�es as well as the various plans and projects that Government seeks to put in place and implement in the area.

Chapter 3, Selec�ng Valued Ecosystem Components, Indicators and Parameters, focuses on the process used in iden�fying appropriate parameters and indicators to be used in monitoring environmental changes in the Alber�ne Graben. It discusses the scoping process used in iden�fying indicators for the environmental monitoring plan. The chapter also presents the criteria and approach used in adop�ng the final parameters and indicators.

Chapter 4, Valued Ecosystem Components, Indicators and Parameters, specifically looks at the process used to iden�fy ecosystem components in the Alber�ne Graben for environmental monitoring. It provides detail of important valued ecosystem components (VECs) iden�fied.

These include the main thema�c issues namely aqua�c, terrestrial, physical/ chemical, society, management and business. The chapter highlights possible effects of oil and gas ac�vi�es on the ecosystem components such as fish, mammals, birds, rep�les, amphibians, wetlands, soil, water and plants. Oil and gas ac�vi�es have varied impacts on these components. Some of the impacts include water and air pollu�on, habitat destruc�on, illegal logging, encroachment and noise or vibra�ons that may disturb the breeding and migra�on pa�erns of wildlife. The chapter provides a summary of valued ecosystem components and the possible driving forces.

Addi�onally, it looks at the parameters to be used, priority indicators, type of monitoring, the loca�on, frequency and ins�tu�ons responsible. It also discusses why monitoring is cri�cal in management of resources and highlights the exis�ng monitoring and available data.

executive summary v The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Chapter 5, Data Collec�on and Analysis looks at all the valued ecosystem components iden�fied and highlights the basis for monitoring. The chapter notes that Lake Albert has been interna�onally recognized as a biological hotspot because of its endemic fish species.

Monitoring of fish resources is important, as there is risk of water pollu�on from oil and gas ac�vi�es. Ac�vi�es such as offshore seismic surveys and drilling generate noise and vibra�ons that may disturb fish distribu�on pa�erns. The chapter also highlights key drivers which may result in changes in animal distribu�on and behavior. It focuses on how infrastructure development will affect wildlife and wildlife habitats. The chapter further notes that hazardous waste may affect biodiversity especially through the food chain. It is also pointed out that poaching is likely to increase as a result of human influx.

Chapter 6, Data Management Framework, looks at approaches of crea�ng a �mely, publicly accessible, efficient and transparent informa�on pla�orm. This framework will be instrumental in enabling the plan to report on state of the environment on a regular basis.

The framework provides for the need to deliver informa�on and knowledge using effec�ve and flexible repor�ng formats to facilitate decision making at various levels. The chapter discusses the Environment Informa�on Network (EIN) decision to develop an environmental data clearing house housed at the Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

Chapter 7, Repor�ng looks at the repor�ng associated with the Alber�ne Graben Environmental Monitoring Plan (AG EMP). The methods of repor�ng to be used will vary depending on the recipient or target audience. Regular repor�ng will be required for the Government and other stakeholders. The chapter also provides a summary of repor�ng formats, the frequency of repor�ng and informa�on dissemina�on.

Chapter 8, Implementa�on Framework of the Monitoring Programme discusses the implementa�on of the monitoring programme. The chapter describes a simple and cost effec�ve structure that ensures effec�ve implementa�on, con�nuous data management, and regular review of the monitoring plan. The EIN will oversee and implement the monitoring programme. A programme review will be conducted every three years. Implementa�on schedule and budget are also discussed with the need for a sustained funding to monitor all components in the plan.

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 vi

1 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

The Alber�ne Graben is situated in the Northern part of the le� arm of the East African Ri� valley. It has a ter�ary basin of about 500km long, averaging 45km.19 percent of the Alber�ne Graben is covered by water bodies (rivers and lakes) and it is also rich in natural resources (minerals, petroleum, fauna and flora). This area has the largest number of protected areas in Uganda, including game reserves, Ramsar sites and a large number of endemic species.

1.1 OVERALL GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE ALBERTINE GRABEN

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

Following the confirma�on of availability of commercially viable Oil and Gas deposits in the Alber�ne Graben, it is necessary to upscale monitoring of the environmental changes within the region. Environmental Monitoring will be done using environmental indicators.

Environmental indicators are informa�on tools that summarize, simplify informa�on and help in understanding the status and threats to environmental resources such as biodiversity.

Therefore indicators are simple measures that tell us what is happening in the environment.

They are a way of presen�ng and managing complex informa�on in a simple and clear manner that can form the basis for future ac�on and can be readily communicated to internal or external stakeholders as appropriate. This document outlines indicators that were discussed during the stakeholders’ scoping workshop held in April 2011 (Thomassen & Hindrum 2011).

1.2 SCOPE OF THE ALBERTINE GRABEN ENVIRONMENTAL

MONITORING PLAN

Oil and Gas ac�vi�es may have severe and long term impacts on the environment if they are not managed well. A monitoring system will enable the regulators to easily understand, predict, minimize, prevent and/or mi�gate adverse impacts. It will also help to provide insight into the state of the environment. An updated database on the performance of the environmental indicators will provide the first early warning signs and also a baseline for any remedial measures that may need to be undertaken.

introduction and background

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 2

The Giant Lobelia found in the Albertine Graben

2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS OF THE ALBERTINE GRABEN

Physical Environment The Alber�ne Graben is a Cenozoic ri� basin formed and developed on the Precambrian orogenic belts of the African Craton. Ri�ing was ini�ated during the late Oligocene or Early Miocene (25- 40 million years ago). The Alber�ne Graben has a sharp varia�on in rainfall amounts, mainly due to varia�ons in the landscape (NEMA 2008). The landscape ranges from the low lying Ri� Valley floor to the ri�’s escarpment, and the raised mountain ranges. The highest landscape is the mountain ranges of Rwenzori, where the Rwenzori mountains towers at over 5000m above mean sea level (a.m.s.l). The ri� valley floor lies in a rain shadow of both the escarpment and mountains, and has the least amount of rainfall average of less than 875mm per annum which is much lower than that of the highland area. The maximum temperatures are above 30°C which can some�mes reach 38°C. Average minimum temperatures are rela�vely consistent and vary between 16°C and 18°C. Wind speed and direc�on records indicate a high incidence of strong winds especially in the ri� valley. The prevailing winds commonly blow along the valley floor in the north-east to south-west direc�on or vice versa. Winds also blow across the ri� valley in an east to west direc�on. Within the Alber�ne Graben, there are three main lakes: Lake Albert, Lake Edward and Lake George. Most of the rivers and streams origina�ng from the highlands surrounding this area drain into the lakes which, in turn, drain into the River Nile via Lake Albert.

Mineral Resources The economic mineral resources in the Alber�ne Graben include lime, dolomite, copper, cobalt, limestone deposits at Hima, and Gypsum in the Kibuku area near Sempaya in Semliki, Bundibugyo District. Gold has also been reported to exist in Maramagambo forest south of Lake Edward in Bushenyi District, while to the extreme south-west, deposits of iron-ore, gold and wolfram are known to exist especially in the escarpment region of Kabale, Kanungu and Rukungiri districts (NEMA, 2008).

Ecosystems and Biodiversity A wide variety of vegeta�on ecosystems and species are known to exist in the region; on the mountain and escarpment slopes and in the valleys and flats. The main vegeta�on ecosystems include montane forests, tropical forests (including riverine and swamp forests), savannah woodlands and grassland mosaics, papyrus and grassland swamps.

The rich and varied flora of the region provides habitats for an equally wide diversity of animal communi�es and species. The grasslands have great poten�al to support a high biomass of wild animals, for example, the short and medium grassland savannah is preferred by animals like the Uganda Kob and bird species such as Piaepiac which feed on the �cks that are o�en

THE ALBERTINE

GRABEN

3 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 found on the antelopes. The Alber�ne region is very rich in bird species whose habitats range from forest and grassland to wetlands and deltas. The delta area on Lake Albert shores, for example, is a convergence zone for the River Nile and Lake Albert which flows through the shallow papyrus swamps. The swamps are well known for suppor�ng a wide variety of water birds, including the Shoebill. The delta species are part of the 400 already known in the whole of Albert and Murchison Falls Na�onal Park area.

There is also a wealth of biodiversity outside the protected areas. Unfortunately, the bulk of this is either already disturbed or threatened, while some of it is already ex�nct. Conserva�on of this biodiversity requires land-use based incen�ves to land owners and users. Oil and gas explora�on and development will certainly escalate the threats to this biodiversity.

Biodiversity The Alber�ne ri� is incredibly species rich. It also has a high number of endemic species. This is a result of the high diversity of habitats that are found here. These habitats include glaciers, alpine vegeta�on (including giant forms of plants that occur at lower al�tudes such as giant Lobelias and Senecios), montane forest, lowland forest, savannah grasslands and woodlands, papyrus swamps, high al�tude swamps, lava rock and the specialist vegeta�on that colonizes it, hot springs, and lakes which also have high numbers of species of fish. Although much survey work has been carried out on birds and large mammals, groups like rep�les and amphibians are s�ll inadequately surveyed.

The Alber�ne ri� is the most rich in vertebrate species on the African con�nent (NEMA 2008). The area has 14% of all African rep�les (175 species), 19% of Africa’s amphibians (119 species), 35% of Africa’s bu�erflies (1300 species), 52% of all African birds (1061 species), 39% of all African mammals (402 species), 14% of Africa’s plants (5,800 species) and over 400 fish species. The rep�le and amphibian groups have, however been poorly distributed in the ri� but the numbers are expected to increase. Of these, 35 mammal species are considered highly threatened by ex�nc�on (Cri�cally Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable as classified by IUCN criteria), 25 birds species, 16 amphibian species and 40 plant species are considered highly threatened. So far 34 endemic mammals, many of which are small mammals, 41 birds, 16 rep�les, 34 amphibians and 117 bu�erfly endemic species have been iden�fied in the region.

The Ugandan sec�on of the Alber�ne region is no excep�on. It is one of the richest biodiversity areas in Uganda, and this is well reflected by the many protected areas located in this region.

The mountain gorilla, the Rwenzori red duiker and the golden monkey are examples of regional endemic mammal species. In Bwindi Impenetrable forest and Kibale Na�onal Parks, scien�sts have recorded 173 species of polypore fungi, which is 16% of the total species known from North America, Tropical Africa and Europe. Addi�onally, the mountains and forests in this region are important watersheds for the supply of regular and clean water to both surrounding and distant communi�es.

2.2 LAND USE AND SOCIO�ECONOMIC STATUS

The Alber�ne Graben covers a total land area of 6,788,616 ha. Out of this, 5,369,164 ha (79.1%) is under agriculture, se�lement and other land uses. The remaining 1,419,452 ha (20%) are protected areas. In the northern part of the Alber�ne Graben, the districts of Arua and Nebbi have the highest popula�on densi�es while Amuru has the lowest. In the Alber�ne Graben region, the districts with the highest popula�on densi�es are Kibaale and Masindi while Buliisa and Kiboga have the lowest. Further south, the district with the highest popula�on density is Bushenyi while Kasese and Rukungiri have the lowest. The popula�on structure in

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 4 the Alber�ne Graben reflects similar trends as those in the rest of the country.

The popula�on has a pyramid structure reflec�ng a large dependent age. More than 50 percent of the popula�on lies between 0-20 years of age. There are slightly more females than males represen�ng 51% and 49% of the popula�on, respec�vely.

The Alber�ne Graben is a centre of rapid urban growth. There are several upcoming urban centers in the Alber�ne Graben including Buliisa, Kasese, Masindi, Kanungu, Rukungiri, Hoima, Kagadi and Ntoroko. There is further growth of the old towns, with a large number of new town councils, town boards and municipali�es coming up in the area. Oil explora�on and development ac�vi�es will most likely create further urbaniza�on premises. This prospec�ve growth needs proper planning to forestall unplanned urban sprawl, slum condi�ons and environmental degrada�on.

2.3 STATUS AND PROJECTION OF OIL AND GAS ACTIVITIES IN THE

ALBERTINE GRABEN

The Alber�ne Graben is the most prolific area for petroleum explora�on in Uganda. Uganda first discovered commercial quan��es of hydrocarbons in the Alber�ne Graben in 2006. The Alber�ne Graben is subdivided into ten Explora�on Areas (see map below). The Explora�on Areas include EA 1 and 5 located to the north of Lake Albert, EA 2, 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D on and around Lake Albert, while EA 4A, 4B and 4C are located around lakes Edward and George in the southern part of the Graben.

Five out of these ten Explora�on Areas are licensed to oil explora�on companies. About

2.5 billion barrels of oil have been discovered and which can last for over 20 years.

The Government is considering a basin wide development concept that will ini�ally focus on the discoveries in EAs 1, 2 and 3A. Field development plans for Nzizi, Mputa, and Waraga are in final stages of review. Details of the implementa�on of the feasibility study for a refinery proposed at Kabaale in Hoima district undertaken by Foster Wheeler on behalf of Government are being considered.

An Integrated Power Project (IPP) has been proposed to u�lize gas from the Nzizi field.

The power project input will be supplemented by associated gas from neighboring fields, heavy fuel from extended well tes�ng and later from an in-country refinery.

Wells will be connected to central processing facili�es which will be linked to a central hub. Pipelines will be developed to link individual wells to processing facili�es as well as processing facili�es to the central hub and to the refinery.

Members of the Environment Information Network on a ground truthing mission to the Albertine Graben

5 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

STATUS OF LICENSING IN THE ALBERTINE GRABEN OF UGANDA

© Petroleum Exploration and Production Department (PREPD)

Figure 1: Status of Licensing in Albertine Graben Source: PEPD 2011

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 6

2.4 EXPECTED INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENTS

The proposed developments will require infrastructure in form of roads, pipelines, airstrips and railways. Plans are underway to tarmac the trunk roads that link the regions where oil discoveries have been made to Kabaale. Work on some roads such as the Hoima-Kaiso road is expected to begin this financial year (2011/2012). Produc�on facili�es will be linked to major road networks for access during rou�ne maintenance and monitoring.

Development of the Alber�ne petroleum will require importa�on of heavy machinery into the country. Some of the crude could also be transported by railway if there is excess for locals that does not warrant the construc�on of pipeline.

Air transport is also proposed to be developed. The airstrip at Pakuba and Bugungu will be upgraded to accommodate the traffic as the produc�on phase begins. Other airstrips/ airports are in plan with increase in petroleum developments for example an airport in the neighborhood of the proposed refinery.

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development is in the process of formula�ng a physical development plans to avoid haphazard developments (such as slums, overcrowding and environmental degrada�on) in the Alber�ne Graben.

The various developments outlined above are poten�al sources of adverse environmental and social impacts. In order to minimize these impacts, it is necessary that biodiversity monitoring indicators are developed to track changes in the environment to ensure sustainable development.

Butiaba Oil Rig Source: NEMA 2011

7 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Bathymetry Map, Lake Albert

Figure 2: Bathymetry Map Source: UNEP/NEMA 2010

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 8

DRC

Bathymetry Map, Lake Albert

DRC

3.1 PROCESS FOR IDENTIFYING AND SELECTING COMPONENTS,

INDICATORS, AND PARAMETERS

3.1.1 Background paper and workshop process

Most of the petroleum resources in Uganda are located within a region of high value biodiversity assets (unique wildlife and their habitats such as important rivers, lakes, forests, grasslands).

While petroleum resources are finite and non-renewable; biodiversity assets are renewable and if managed well can con�nue to support economic development and human prosperity for a much longer period of �me. It is therefore important that care is taken to ensure that exploita�on of petroleum resources is done without compromising the quality and quan�ty of the environmental resources of the Alber�ne Graben.

Within this context, it has been found necessary to establish an environmental monitoring program with appropriate indicators. The Na�onal Environment Management Authority (NEMA) leads this process with funding and technical support from the Norwegian Government under the environment pillar of the Uganda Oil for Development (OfD) program.

3.1.2 Workshop process

NEMA with support from NORAD and the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management (DN) has organized a number of workshops to develop an environmental monitoring programme for the Alber�ne Graben. The main objec�ves of these workshops were to iden�fy focused and measurable indicators to be used in the environmental monitoring of impacts of petroleum ac�vi�es in the Alber�ne Graben. The workshops adopted various par�cipatory methods including focus group discussions, document review and interac�ve thema�c presenta�ons.

These processes enabled the team to undertake scoping and final selec�on of the appropriate indicators to implement a monitoring programme.

3.1.3 Scoping process

According to Beanlands (1988) “scoping refers to the process of iden�fying, from a broad range of poten�al problems, a number of priority issues to be addressed by an Environmental

SELECTING VALUED

ECOSYSTEM

COMPONENTS,

INDICATORS, AND

PARAMETERS

9 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Impact Assessment (EIA)”. Scoping with regards to the establishment of the environmental monitoring programme for the Alber�ne Graben in Uganda, refers to the process of iden�fying a limited number of issues to be addressed in the environmental monitoring programme with the aim to measure (indicators) the exis�ng quality (baseline) and poten�al future changes of the environment and the society (ecosystem approach).

To ensure effec�ve scoping developing environmental monitoring indicators for petroleum ac�vi�es in the Alber�ne Graben, several ini�a�ves have been undertaken, including the following;

i) A detailed study and understanding of the oil and gas development plans has been made with technical guidance from the Petroleum Explora�on and Produc�on Department (PEPD) which has provided an overview of exis�ng ac�vi�es and of future petroleum development plans; and

ii) A background paper for development of indicators for monitoring environmental changes in the Alber�ne Graben was developed and shared with the par�cipants.

This document provided an outline of suggested environment indicators that ought to be monitored to establish the status of the Alber�ne Graben environment resources in the presence of oil and gas explora�on ac�vi�es. The document was useful in placing the available environmental informa�on about the Alber�ne Graben into context for a larger group of stakeholders to discuss and evaluate appropriate indicators.

The scoping process also established the status and access to available ecosystem baseline informa�on for the Alber�ne Graben. Ecosystem baseline informa�on refers to the background informa�on on the environment and socio-economic se�ng for a proposed development project.

During the scoping, a limited number of indicators were iden�fied. These included considera�ons of impact factors and poten�al impacts, decision makers, stakeholders, alterna�ves, access of baseline informa�on, �me schedule and economic frames. The scoping phase in an Monitoring and Evalua�on (M&E) programme (as well as in a Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Alber�ne Graben and later in explora�on area specific Environmental Impact Assessments) is furthermore cri�cal for an op�mal use of limited resources in the perspec�ve of personnel, �me and economy, and should be accomplished as early as possible in the process. The process of scoping and the criteria for selec�ng final parameters and indicators is elaborated below.

3.2 CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PARAMETERS AND INDICATORS

One major challenge in any monitoring and evalua�on programme is to iden�fy a limited number of indicators amidst a mul�tude of possible indicators. This was achieved through scoping (as described above), and included considera�ons of impact factors (drivers) and poten�al impacts, decision-makers, stakeholders, alterna�ves, access of baseline informa�on, �me schedule and economic frames among others. This scoping process was cri�cal for the op�mal use of limited resources in the perspec�ve of personnel, �me and funding.

The approach to selec�ng final indicators and parameters a�er scoping was the Adap�ve Environmental Assessment and Management (AEAM) concept (Thomassen J. & Hindrum, R.

2011). As the proposed environmental monitoring process covers various subjects including;

environment and natural resources as well as society, different actors and stakeholders were involved in different phases of the process. Obviously, communica�on between decision makers, authori�es, management, Non-Governmental Organiza�ons (NGOs), public, The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 10 consultants and scien�sts should be accomplished in a very early stage in the development of an M&E, with the objec�ve to scope on important issues. AEAM is a par�cipatory process, based on workshops a�ended by different stakeholder and project holders. Work was done in both plenary sessions and sub-groups.

In AEAM the impact predic�ons and significance includes:

1. The selec�on and priori�za�on of a limited number of Valued Ecosystem Components (VECs), which are focal issues poten�ally affected by the oil/gas development ac�vi�es;

2. The iden�fica�on of major drivers (impact factors from the oil/gas development);

3. Assessment of major linkages between the different VECs and the drivers by construc�ng cause-effect charts with linkage explana�ons;

4. Descrip�on of poten�al impacts through impact hypotheses and finally; and

5. Providing recommenda�ons on further needs for research, inves�ga�ons and management ac�ons including M&E programme with indicators.

Key statements in every scien�fic work, as well as in an M&E programme, should be the transparency and possibili�es to document and control the process and the choices done. It should be obvious that an open and well-documented process is essen�al when numerous subjects are rejected as not important enough.

The AEAM process adopted started with a descrip�on of the ecological and societal status of Uganda’s Alber�ne Graben. This Graben has numerous species, species groups, habitats and processes which can be taken into account. There are also a number of anthropogenic and natural impact factors or drivers which can affect the ecosystem in one way or another. In a monitoring context, there is a challenge to select which parts of the ecosystem should be in focus and which drivers to be priori�zed.

The systema�c AEAM process focused on priori�zed issues (VECs) and iden�fied the most important pressures or drivers. A valued component will be the basis for selec�ng targeted monitoring indicators (clear and agreed indicators). Given a restricted number of VECs and drivers, cause-effect charts were subsequently constructed to put the VECs and the drivers in the context they belonged. Following the cause-effect charts, impact hypotheses were formulated. The impact hypotheses were explained and described in scien�fic terms and formed the basis for recommenda�ons concerning research, inves�ga�ons, monitoring and management/mi�ga�on measures.

The following four evalua�on categories were adopted for each iden�fied impact hypothesis:

A. The hypothesis is assumed not to be valid;

B. The hypothesis is valid and already verified. Research to validate or invalidate the hypothesis is not required. Surveys, monitoring, and/or management measures can possibly be recommended;

C. The hypothesis is assumed to be valid. Research, monitoring or surveys are recommended to validate or invalidate the hypothesis. Mi�ga�ng measures can be recommended if the hypothesis is proved to be valid; and D. The hypothesis may be valid, but is not worth tes�ng for professional, logis�c, economic or ethical reasons, or because it is assumed to be of minor environmental influence only or of insignificant value for decision making.

11 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Environmental Monitoring Indicators

Environmental Monitoring Indicators are used for repor�ng poten�al changes in the ecosystem as a consequence of the oil and gas development, and provide the basis for decisions on mi�ga�ng measures or other management ac�ons.

These monitoring indicators will demonstrate progress when environmental management in the petroleum sector is on track and provide early warning signals when such management is heading in the wrong direc�on.

It is important to determine the purpose and end users of each monitoring indicator, since successful indicators are used to support policy and decision-making. SMART indicators (see Box 1) can provide informa�on on several issues (EEA 2005 and Background Paper NEMA 2011). Selected indicators should meet the following basic criteria:

1. Policy relevance in accordance with environment and development policy and objec�ves in Uganda;

2. Available and rou�nely collected data secured regularly to update the indicator data should be simple, but accurate to measure and cover both lower and higher tropic levels;

3. Spa�al and temporal coverage of data: secure that the defined monitoring area will be covered over �me and that the indicators are sensi�ve to ecosystem change caused by natural and anthropogenic drivers. These indicators should be linked to a

“cause- effect”;

4. Exis�ng monitoring data series should be con�nued: good long term qualita�ve data series are essen�al in measuring trends and the value of such datasets only increases over �me;

5. Representa�veness: secure that most aspects of the ecosystem are covered, both physical aspects, biological components and the society, cover common species of public concern (e.g. red listed species) are of importance to local communi�es;

6. Methodologically well founded: through a clear descrip�on of the methodology to be used when measuring the indicators;

7. Understandability: secure that the indicators are clearly defined and understood by the stake-holders and end users (i.e. local community, decision makers, global public);

8. Agreed indicators: indicators mutually accepted by the stakeholders and end users;

9. Indicators should therefore cover common species as well as those of public concern

(e.g. red listed species) are of importance to local communi�es; and

10. Indicators should be rela�vely simple to measure, allowing for repeatable, accurate measurements.

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 12

Members of the Environment Information Network visiting the proposed site for the Oil refinery.

Box 1: SMART Indicators

Indicators should, to the extent possible, be SMART:

Specific - It should be exact, distinct and clearly stated;

Measurable - It should be measurable in some way, involving qualitative and/or quantitative characteristics;

Achievable - It should be realistic with the human and financial resources available;

Relevant - Does it measure the result?;

and

Time-bound - It should be achieved in a stated time-frame.

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Species Richness

DRC

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 14

Figure 3: Species Richness Source: UNEP/NEMA 2010

4.1 MONITORING OBJECTIVES

Resource monitoring is becoming an increasingly important subject. Increasing demand for resources, greater public involvement in management, issues of species popula�on viability and ecosystem have all contributed to a need for a be�er understanding of resource, and how it changes over �me. In order to assure the public that the management prac�ces have acceptable effects on the ecosystems involved, monitoring is necessary. This helps to ensure that the actual results are within the expected range of effects. If not, then adap�ve management decisions can be made to improve the situa�on.

Monitoring is the measurement through �me that indicates the movement toward the objec�ve or away from it. Monitoring will provide informa�on about the status and trends of resources or ecosystems, but it should not be used to determine cause and effect. Monitoring is thus a means of checking on progress as well as a tool for improvement. Without it, there is no way of knowing if our management ac�ons are working and how they should be changed to be more effec�ve.

Monitoring has the objec�ve of crea�ng data which are to be compared to an explicit standard.

Monitoring objec�ves should be clearly defined. It is common that limited funds are spent on monitoring efforts with few meaningful results. Carefully defining objec�ves, and then carefully matching methods to meet them, can mean the difference between an effec�ve monitoring program and a waste of �me and money one.

Main objec�ves of Monitoring are to:

• Provide informa�on to users on the service level they can expect;

• Provide data for an objec�ve evalua�on of services and ac�vi�es;

• Provide data to iden�fy problems in the supply chain;

• Provide data to determine what measures are needed for improving services;

• Provide data to understand the need to increase or decrease resources; and

• Provide data to define parameters for the periodic review system calcula�ons.

VALUED ECOSYSTEM

COMPONENTS,

INDICATORS, AND

PARAMETERS

15 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

4.2 VALUED ECOSYSTEM COMPONENTS

The selec�on of Valued Ecosystem Components (VEC) for Environmental monitoring in the Alber�ne Graben was based on issues of physical, biological, social and cultural characters.

These were discussed in two workshops including a scoping workshop, which was held in Kasese, and a finaliza�on workshop in Mukono town. The following steps guided this process:

1. Iden�fica�on and priori�za�on of Valued Ecosystem Components;

2. Iden�fica�on and priori�za�on of drivers;

3. Construc�on of cause – effect charts; and

4. Assessing and filling in the Indicator Fact Sheets, i.e. impact hypotheses and recommenda�ons.

Step 1. Valued Ecosystem Components A Valued Ecosystem Component is defined as a resource or environmental feature that:

is important (not only economically) to a local human popula�on, or has a na�onal or interna�onal profile, or if altered from its exis�ng status, will be important for the evalua�on of environmental impacts of industrial developments, and the focusing of administra�ve efforts (Hansson et al.1990).

Step 2. Drivers Drivers are impact factors or driving forces which can affect the ecosystem and/or the society in one way or another. Based on the ac�vity descrip�on of the proposed oil/gas development in the Alber�ne Graben, a number of drivers (or impact factors) can be iden�fied.

Step 3. Cause - effect charts: Linking Valued Ecosystem Components and Drivers A Cause – effect chart is a diagram of boxes and arrows indica�ng in which context each of the VECs appears, that is, which type of driver from the proposed ac�vity can affect the VEC and how.

Each linkage was explained in a brief text following the chart. Hansson et al. (1990) described the content of the flow chart to include the main categories of the physical, biological and possibly also social and poli�cal factors influencing the VEC.

Step 4 and 5. Impact Hypotheses and Recommenda�ons An Impact Hypothesis is a hypothesis for tes�ng the possible impact from the ac�vity on the VEC. The impact hypothesis is based on the schema�c flow chart and shall be explained and described preferably in scien�fic terms.

4.3 SUMMARY OF IDENTIFIED PRIORITY VECS

The five major thema�c issues, at the Kasese workshop are summarized below.

1. Aqua�c ecological issues

2. Terrestrial ecological issues

3. Physical/chemical issues

4. Society issues

5. Management and business issues

The western arm of the East African Ri� System is one of the most important loca�ons for the conserva�on of mammals, birds, and freshwater fish in Africa. The region is home to many

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 16 plant and animal species that are endemic to the region. These include the mountain gorilla, mountain monkey, golden monkey and 41 species of birds as well as many rep�les, amphibians and fish.

The wildlife areas are also a habitat to lions, leopards, bohor reedbuck, the giant forest hog and warthog, hippopotamus, giraffes, elephants, waterbuck, the African jackal and several other animal species. Open waters provide a unique ecosystem for animal life. Mammals such as hippopotamus, crocodiles and Sitatunga commonly occur in the estuarine and delta swamps, and other wetlands flanking open waters. In par�cular, crocodiles inhabit the shores of Lake Albert and River Wasa (Wango area). The Alber�ne region is very rich in bird species whose habitats range from forest and grassland to wetlands and deltas.

4.4 EFFECTS OF OIL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES ON THE ECOSYSTEM

Fish The Sensi�vity of fisheries resources to petroleum development is associated with high frequency noise from petroleum development ac�vi�es, oil spills and pollu�on from hydrocarbon compounds and chemicals from mud cu�ngs. These can cause dras�c change in aqua�c environment leading to migra�on or death of fish.

Fishermen on Lake Albert.

17 The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017

Kaiso Tonya Fishing village and the silver fish (mukene) found in L. Albert.

The Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Albertine Graben 2012-2017 18

Mammals From seismic survey, mammals and crocodiles are sensi�ve to vibra�ons, movement of heavy equipments and the drilling ac�vity. The noise resul�ng from petroleum ac�vi�es interfere with breeding pa�erns of wildlife. The clearing of vegeta�on during various infrastructure developments reduces the habitats for wildlife, destroys the homes of some animals and may block the corridors for animals. The oil spills and pollu�on from other chemicals used during petroleum developments may contaminate water sources for wildlife and may affect the water dwelling animals e.g. birds and fish species.

UGANDA SEISMIC LINE COVERAGE

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Figure 4: Uganda Seismic Line Coverage

A Seismic line.

Hippos in the…