Chapter 8 - Recommended Mitigation and Monitoring

The unexpectedly high values obtained for the trace metals lead and chromium may be adequate reason to repeat these analyses on freshly collected samples. The data base could also be improved by carrying out analysis on the actual sediment dredged at different depths. Though the turn around time for these analyses would limit their usefulness in this exercise, it would assist in refining disposal plans for future dredging operations.

Development of the disposal strategy should take into consideration the possible need to identify different ways of disposing of sediment from different depths (especially in the harbour). Where possible consideration should be given to using sediment as fill for land based projects.

Sediment from the more obviously contaminated areas, namely, Gordon Cay, and the channel near Fort Augusta may have to be disposed of in a different manner than sediment from areas in the outer harbour. The following simple matrix relates sediment type with potential hazards, and disposal options recommended for consideration:

Table 10: Environmental Chemistry Matrix: Sediment, Hazard and Disposal Options

C Curtains placed on dredge to trap sediments and therefore limit the lateral movement of turbid water;

C Spoil dispersion outfall characteristics to be evaluated by collecting grab water samples during dredging operations and operations modified accordingly;

C Dredging to a slightly greater depth than absolutely necessary to pick up more, heavier, material so as to facilitate fallout of dredge spoil when released in open water;

C Dredging to a slightly greater depth than absolutely necessary so as to reduce the need for maintenance dredging;

C No dredging in periods of rapid water movements, for example, in the afternoon when trade winds are strong, or during the rainy season when large influxes of fresh water could move significant volumes of sediment laden waters across the harbour to the Port Royal mangroves;

C The connection of a conical reflective shield to the outlet as silt suppression and dispersion control mechanism;

C Careful mapping of seagrass areas directly affected by the dredge and replanting 130% of area affected to compensate for possible mortality. These techniques are well established for Kingston Harbour waters (Thorhaug et al 1985);

C Reseeding of mussel beds in the Port Royal mangroves to improve the bait population for the fishery;

C Removing corals, seagrasses, gorgonians and urchins at the Rackham’s Cay area and relocating to Gun Cay or some other appropriate site;

C Preventative maintenance of equipment to mitigate negative environmental impacts such as leakages and spillages.

Given the impacts outlined in Section 6.4.1.2, and recognition of the need to move toward a holistic and sustainable approach for the development of Kingston Harbour, a strong recommendation would be the formulation of an Integrated Development, Management and Monitoring Plan (IDMMP). This Plan should incorporate existing sector plans, initiatives and projects already approved and/or being implemented. The IDMMP should include key action and results areas for the rehabilitation as well as the long term development of Kingston Harbour, collaboratively with community-based planning and development. It should be supported and owned by all user groups and the public with certain agencies such as the Port Authority of Jamaica, NRCA/NEPA, TPD, KSAC, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Agriculture and Mining, the private sector (such the Port Royal Redevelopment Company among others) and NGOs, positioned to assume certain key responsibilities and lead functions.

Given the level of unemployment and underemployment of the young people in the surrounding communities, it is recommended that most of the unskilled construction and casual labourer positions are filled locally. As much as possible, local residents especially from the fishing communities should be given the first opportunity for employment.

The issue of compensation to fishermen in the event of negative impacts resulting from the project was discussed in Section 5. The NRCA/NEPA and the Fisheries Division in collaboration with the respective affected Fishing Cooperatives and communities and the PAJ should agree and discuss reasonable compensation and the manner of its disbursement should the need arise. A lead role should be jointly taken by the NRCA/NEPA and the Fisheries Division.

As discussed at the Public Forum, a Monitoring Committee should be formed, however, since a Kingston Harbour Rehabilitation Steering Committee already exists, then efforts should be made to utilize existing mechanisms and to build synergy and collaboration. The terms of reference and mandate of the Committee should be reviewed to allow for the comprehensive monitoring and accountability of development activities within the boundaries of the Harbour as well as activities in surrounding areas that might impact on the harbour, including recommendation contained in this EIA. The Committee should comprise members of key government agencies including the NRCA/NEPA, and Fisheries Division, NGOs/CBOs, Fishing Cooperatives and community representatives, Student Network, private sector, international agencies, and the Port Authority of Jamaica.

It is recommended that during the actual dredging and disposal procedures, a monitoring program be implemented. This program should include the following:

C An examination of all important environmental parameters should be carried out during the first week of the operation. If no adverse effects are noted, monitoring should be fortnightly. This monitoring will be carried out more frequently during unusual weather conditions, or if adverse effects are noted.

C Turbidity and other sensitive water quality readings should be taken at all sensitive areas outside of the area of the screens initially, and at regular intervals throughout the operation.

C Current readings and examination of plumes should be taken on a spot check basis throughout the area of interest.

· Aerial photographs (unannounced) should be taken regularly to determine if the dredge is operating according to recommendations.

· Soundings should be taken fortnightly at the approved offshore dump site to monitor the effect over the period of deposition.

· A continuous record of wind speed and direction should be made throughout the period of dredging.

Fortnightly reports should be sent to the NRCA on the dredging activities unless conditions develop which warrant more frequent reporting. Spot checks should be done on nearby reefs to monitor any siltation at least once per month, preferably every two weeks.

SEDIMENT SOURCE	POTENTIAL HAZARD ASSOCIATED WITH DISPOSAL	DISPOSAL OPTIONS RECOMMENDED FOR CONSIDERATION
Outside Harbour	Increased Suspended Solids	Ensure safe distance from sensitive ecosystems e.g. seagrass beds, and coral reefs
Ship channel (Port Royal to Fort Augusta)	Increased suspended solids, possible hydrogen sulphide contamination, organic load	Ensure safe distance from sensitive ecosystems e.g. seagrass beds, and coral reefs, deep water disposal (>300m)
Ship channel (Fort Augusta to Turning Basin)	Increased suspended solids, significant hydrogen sulphide contamination, high organic load, possible leaching of lead and chromium	Land disposal at a sealed site, disposal in very deep water (>1000m), control of discharge rate.

Table 10: Environmental Chemistry Matrix: Sediment, Hazard and Disposal Options

SEDIMENT SOURCE