DUNE MINING AND THE NHLABANE SYSTEM: CAN BIODIVERSITY AND THE NURSERY FUNCTION BE MAINTAINED?

Summary A four year study of the Nhlabane Estuary and Lake System was undertaken over the period 1992 to 1995. Data gathered clearly showed that in terms of ichthyofauna, the estuary plays an important role as a nursery ground for juveniles of marine species known to be dependent or partially dependent on these systems. The benthos was found to be typically estuarine in nature. During the study period all positive and/or negative aspects associated with mining activities in the vicinity of the Nhlabane System were recorded. In addition the effects of the prolonged drought over 1993–95, and that of the presence of a permanent barrage separating the estuary from the lake were also noted. A number of mining associated activities have had negative impacts on the system. These were related to the presence of the barrier between the estuary and the lake (the barrage), continued abstraction of water by Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) from the estuary itself and the effects of an RBM dredger and plant machinery cross...